Taxis in Madrid: Overview

Madrid taxis are available at any time of the day, regardless of weather conditions. With more than 15,600 licensed taxis operating across the city, finding a cab is rarely a problem. Official Madrid taxis are white with a red stripe on the doors and the city emblem displayed clearly. A green light on the roof indicates availability.

Even though Madrid has a well-developed public transportation network, taxis remain the most convenient way to move around the city. They offer door-to-door service, save time, and eliminate the hassle of navigating metro lines or crowded buses, especially during rush hours. However, traffic congestion is common in Madrid, which may affect travel time and final cost.

Madrid Taxi Fares

Taxi fares in Madrid are regulated by the government. All taxis are metered, and prices are strictly defined by official tariff categories. This system was introduced to limit overcharging, although it can be confusing due to the number of different fare rates.

In total, there are 7 fare categories, depending on the time of day, distance traveled, and origin or destination.

  • Rate 1
    Monday to Friday, from 07:00 to 21:00
    Initial fare: 2.50€
    Price per km: 1.15€
    Waiting time: 22€ / hour
  • Rate 2
    Nighttime (21:00–07:00), weekends, and public holidays
    Initial fare: 3.15€
    Price per km: 1.40€
    Waiting time: 25.30€ / hour
  • Rate 3
    Airport → outside M-30, within 9 km
    Initial fare: 22€
    Price per km: 1.35€
    Waiting time: 26.50€ / hour
    After 9 km, standard zone tariffs apply
    No night surcharge
  • Rate 4
    Airport → M-30 zone (city center)
    Fixed fare: 33€
    Valid day and night
    No extra charges
  • Rates 5 & 6
    Journeys outside the Administrative Passenger Area (APC)
  • Rate 7
    Short trips under 1,450 m
    From Atocha, Chamartín, Méndez Álvaro, Avenida de América stations, and IFEMA
    Initial fare: 7.50€
    Price per km: 1.15€
    Waiting time: 22€ / hour

No additional surcharges apply except during Christmas and New Year’s Eve. These surcharges do not apply to the airport fixed fare (Rate 4).

Madrid Taxis: Payment Methods

Madrid taxi drivers accept both cash and credit/debit card payments. However, it is strongly recommended to carry some cash in case the card terminal is unavailable.

Taxi drivers are legally required to provide change for amounts up to 20€. Carrying small bills is advisable.

How to Hire a Taxi in Madrid

Taxis can be hailed directly from the street by raising your hand. Only taxis with the green roof light on are available.

Taxi ranks are also widespread throughout the city. They are marked with a blue sign featuring a white “T”. If using a taxi rank, you must take the first taxi in line.

Alternatively, taxis can be booked by phone or through mobile apps. Popular options include Pidetaxi, MyTaxi, and Cabify. Keep in mind that phone bookings usually start charging from the moment the taxi is dispatched.

Madrid Taxi to Madrid Barajas Airport

A taxi is one of the most convenient ways to reach Madrid Barajas Airport. For trips originating inside the M-30 ring, a fixed fare of 33€ applies, regardless of time, luggage, or traffic conditions.

For destinations outside the M-30, Rate 3 applies, and the final fare is calculated by the taximeter. In all cases, luggage is carried free of charge and stored safely in the trunk.

Useful Hints about Madrid Taxis

  • Official taxis are white with a red stripe and Madrid’s coat of arms
  • Avoid unlicensed drivers – always use official taxis
  • Ensure the taximeter is activated when applicable
  • Always request a receipt at the end of the ride
  • For official complaints, contact Madrid City Council: +34 91 529 8210
  • Use a navigation app to avoid unnecessary detours
  • Taxis for passengers with reduced mobility must be booked in advance
  • No extra charges for pets, wheelchairs, or luggage
  • Most drivers have limited English – keep your destination written down
  • Tipping is optional; rounding up the fare is customary