Getting around Madrid can feel chaotic at first: metro lines, buses, parking zones, streets that go up and down… until you realize there’s a much easier (and actually fun) way to move through the city: an electric bike you can unlock straight from your phone.

‍

BiciMAD has become one of the most practical ways to move around Madrid, especially for newcomers who are still figuring out how everything works. It’s fast, affordable, eco-friendly, and, most importantly, it gives you freedom: go wherever you want, whenever you want, without depending on schedules.

‍

If you’ve just arrived in the Spanish capital, here’s a simple guide with everything you need to start cycling around without any hassle.  

‍

What is BiciMAD

‍

BiciMAD is Madrid’s public electric bike system managed by EMT (Empresa Municipal de Transportes). It works through an app where you can register, find nearby stations, check bike availability, and unlock one in seconds.

‍

There are currently over 600 stations across the city, and the network keeps growing. All bikes are pedal-assist electric, meaning you still pedal, but the motor gives you an extra push. Perfect for the city’s hills or commuting without breaking a sweat.

‍

How to register

‍

Getting started is simple:

‍

1. Download the official BiciMAD app, available on iOS and Android.

2. Create an account or log in using MPass, the unified system that integrates various mobility services in Madrid.

3. Enter your personal details: name, email, phone number, and a valid payment card. You can also use your passport or NIE if you don’t yet have a Spanish ID.

4. Choose the rate that best fits your needs (explained below).

‍

Once your account is confirmed, you can unlock bikes, check the map, and start riding.

‍

The whole process takes less than five minutes and is fully managed through the app.

‍

2025 rates

‍

BiciMAD offers two main options:

‍

• Basic plan: No monthly fee. You pay €0.50 for the first 30 minutes and another €0.50 if you go up to 60 minutes. After an hour, it’s €3 for each additional 30-minute period. Ideal if you plan to use the bikes occasionally.

• Monthly flat rate: €10 per month, including unlimited rides up to 30 minutes for free. After that, the same extra charges apply. If you plan to ride daily or take several short trips, this plan is usually more cost-effective.

‍

The system includes basic insurance, and you can view your ride history directly in the app. Just make sure to dock the bike correctly at the end of your ride. If it doesn’t register properly, you could be charged a penalty.

‍

Station map

‍

One of BiciMAD’s greatest strengths is its extensive network: there are docking stations in all 21 districts of Madrid, from Moncloa to Vallecas.

Through the app or the interactive map on the website, you can check:

‍

• The number of bikes available at each station.

• How many docking points are free.

• “Virtual stations,” which are designated areas without physical docks where you can also leave a bike.

‍

If you arrive at a full station, don’t worry, the app will automatically show you the nearest one with available spots.

‍

Tip: save your favorite stations (like home, work, or gym) so you can access them quickly.

‍

Basic road rules

‍

Cycling in Madrid is quite straightforward once you know the rules. The most important ones:

‍

• Bikes must ride on the road, never on sidewalks (except for children under 12).

• Ride in the center of the lane, it makes you more visible and prevents dangerous overtakes.

• Obey traffic lights and road signs, just like any other vehicle.

• The speed limit is 30 km/h on single-lane streets and 50 km/h where there are multiple lanes.

• Helmets are not mandatory for adults but are strongly recommended, especially if you’re not used to Madrid’s traffic.

• Use lights and visible clothing when riding at night.

• Signal your turns with your arm before changing direction.

• And most importantly: don’t use headphones while cycling.

‍

When you finish your trip, dock the bike properly at a station or authorized point. Don’t worry, the app will confirm when the return is complete to avoid any extra charges.

‍

Tips for a smooth start

‍

• Start with short trips (under 30 minutes) to get used to the system.

• Check the bike’s battery level before unlocking.

• Avoid rush hours until you’re comfortable with traffic.

• Use bike lanes whenever possible.

• Keep your digital ride receipts in case you need to check them later.

• And, from experience: if you see a steep hill and don’t feel like climbing it. Don’t worry, it’s electric.

‍

BiciMAD is one of the easiest, most affordable, and most enjoyable ways to move around Madrid, especially if you’ve just arrived and are still getting to know the city. With the €10 monthly plan, you can explore freely without worrying about time or cost.

‍

Register, find your nearest station, and enjoy Madrid on two wheels. Remember: you don’t need to be a professional cyclist, just curious enough to get to know the city properly.