TRAVEL AROUND IN MADRID

Metro
The Madrid's Metro was inaugurated in 1919 and has become so extensive and very fast-growing that only the massive London's underground system surpasses it in the Western Europe hemisphere. In addition to the metro system, there are also extensive commuter rain network called Cercanias which help fill in the routes where the metro leaves out. With 12 major lines and 190 stations covered all over Madrid, the metro system offers the fastest and most convenient way to explore the city. A ticket for metro starts at 1.15 €. If you are planning to stay in Madrid for a while, it is advisable to purchase a 10-trip MetroBus pass (5.35 €) as it's a great way to save money because the pass can be shared between more than 2 people and can be used on the public buses as well.

Cercanias
The greater Madrid light railway or Cercanias is RENFE-owned commuter train service that travels to the outskirts of Madrid and beyond. They are marked by the rotated white on red "C." Tickets start at 1.15 € and go up according to the distance. They are comfortable, punctual and are not too crowded in general. Cercanias stations are underground near the city center but above ground further out. It is indisputably the cheapest and most convenient way for daytrips to the nearby cities and sites.

Bus
Madrid's city buses are managed by EMT. They run an extensive network across Madrid, but visitors may find the buses to be slower and more confusing than the metro as well. Nevertheless, they are great for a short-distance commute between close neighborhoods when time is not a top priority because there is no schedule for departure. EMT buses operate from 6 am - midnight with an exception of some "Buhos" (night buses) which also run after midnight. The advantage of taking a bus in Madrid is that it costs the same as Metro (1.15 €) and the 10-trip MetroBus Pass can also be used on Madrid's buses as well.

Taxi
Official taxis here are metered and painted white with a red diagonal stripe across the front doors. They are plentiful and can be flagged down at virtually any street and at any time of day. Available cabs display a "Libre" sign during the day, a green light at night. The meter starts at 1.05 € and surcharges are applied in the cases like extra-passengers, pick-up from a phone call, pick-up at the airport, loading of luggage...etc. Make sure the meter is running or visitors who do not speak Spanish may risk a rip-off.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Silken Puerta De Madrid - The Hotel Silken Puerta De Madrid Is A Modern Building With Striking Glass Facade. The 194 Guestrooms Feature A Contemporary White Decor With Light Wood Wall Panelling. All Have Air Conditioning, Minibars, Wireless Internet Access, Satellite Television, And Safes.

Silken Torre Garden - Refurbished In 2004, This Modern Madrid Property Is Located 10 Kilometres Northeast Of City Centre And With Easy Access To The Ifema Trade Fair Site. The 90 Functional, Contemporary Guestrooms Overlook The Street And In-room Comforts Such As Wireless Internet, Satellite Television, Minibars And Direct-dial Telephones.

Suite Prado Hotel - The Suite Prado Is Situated Right Next To The Art Walk Of Madrid: Sculpture, Video, Photography And Films. Guests Can Also Stroll To The Thyseen-bornemisza Museum To Admire The Splendid Collection Ranging From Primitive Flemish To Contemporary Works.