Taxi in Spain: Everything you need to know about taxis on the Iberian Peninsula
- Damian Brzeski
- 5 days ago
- 14 min read
Did you know that in Barcelona, the color of taxis has been the same since 1934? Black and yellow not only catches the eye, but also guarantees that you are dealing with a licensed driver.
What other rules govern the Spanish taxi world? How not to overpay for a ride from the airport and which app works best in Madrid? If you're planning a trip to Spain - don't set off without this knowledge!
Types of Taxi Services in Spain
If you're planning a trip around Spain, it's definitely worth knowing how the local taxi transport works.
In both large cities and tourist resorts, you will find many options - from classic rides through the streets of Barcelona to convenient transfers from the airport or port. Check what taxi services are available and what to look out for.
Official taxis in Barcelona and other cities
Official taxis in Spain are easy to recognize – not only because of their color, but also because of their clear markings.
In Madrid, white vehicles with a red stripe and the city coat of arms predominate , while official taxis in Barcelona have worn the characteristic black and yellow colours since the 1930s.
This design has become an icon of the city and is unmistakable – if you’re interested in Barcelona’s official taxis , just look around the streets of the city centre.
Each vehicle has a license number – visible at the front, back and doors – and a green light on the roof shows when a taxi is available. Inside you’ll find a sign with information about fares and the driver’s details. Using a taximeter is mandatory – make sure you turn it on at the start of your journey.
Spain boasts a well-developed taxi system , dominated by self-employed drivers (so-called autónomos), although there are also radio-taxi corporations.
Each city has its own associations and local regulations, so it is worth familiarizing yourself with the local rules in advance.
Regardless of the region, licensed taxis offer legal and safe transport – which is especially important in the context of illegal transport, which unfortunately sometimes tries to operate on the margins of the law.
The appearance of Spanish taxis
How to recognize a taxi in Spain at first glance? It's easier than you think! Although the appearance of the vehicles varies from city to city, there are common features that help distinguish official taxis from other cars.
In Madrid the mandatory vehicle type is white with a diagonal red stripe and the city's coat of arms on the doors.
In Barcelona, on the other hand, the legendary duo of black and yellow reigns supreme – the Barcelona Taxi is a black car with bright yellow doors, visible from afar. These colours have been in use continuously since 1934 and have become a recognisable symbol of the city.
What does the additional information on a taxi light mean in Spain?
In addition to the color, on the roof of each taxi you will find an illuminated "TAXI" sign and a display informing about the vehicle's availability and fare.
What exactly does this "rooster" show? If the green light is on, it means that the vehicle is free and you can stop it. A red inscription or no light indicates that the taxi is already occupied.
Next to the TAXI sign there is often a digital display with the current tariff number:
1 – standard daily tariff,
2 – night, weekend or holiday tariff,
3 – special tariff (e.g. for “deep night” journeys on weekends).
With this information, you can easily see how much you will pay and whether it is worth getting in. Importantly, all of these elements must comply with local regulations, and their presence indicates that you are dealing with a licensed taxi .
Inside, look for a sticker with fares and the driver's license - it is usually placed on the rear window. Additionally, each car has a taximeter , which must be turned on from the beginning of the trip.
Taxi prices and rates in Spain
When travelling in Spain, it’s worth knowing what costs to expect when using a taxi. While prices can vary from city to city, all taxi rates are set by the government and must be clearly displayed in the vehicle. This makes using them predictable and safe for passengers.
What are taxi prices in Barcelona and Madrid?
In Madrid, you will pay €2.55 during the day and €3.20 at night to get into a taxi, and €1.35/€1.50 for each kilometre travelled. There are also fixed rates – for example, a ride from Barajas Airport to the centre of Madrid will cost €33 , regardless of the time of day or traffic jams.
In Barcelona the entry fee is €2.60 regardless of the time, while the cost per kilometre is €1.27 during the day and €1.56 at night . For journeys from El Prat airport there is a surcharge of €4.50 and the minimum fare for a journey from the airport is €21 .
It is worth remembering that taxi prices in Barcelona can be slightly higher compared to other cities, especially in the city center.
Surcharges for night, holiday and airport travel
In addition to the rate per kilometer, additional fees may be added to the price of the ride. These are most often:
night surcharges – usually valid from 10pm to 6am and can range from 1 to several euros,
holiday surcharges – e.g. on Christmas Eve, New Year's Eve or local fiestas (in Barcelona e.g. +€3.50 for the night of St. John),
airport surcharges – vary depending on the city: from €1.80 (Ibiza) to even €6 (Málaga),
surcharges for train stations and ports – e.g. Estació de Sants in Barcelona is an additional €2.50 , as is the fee for staying at a port.
Some cities (e.g. Seville , Madrid ) also offer fixed fares for airport transfers , allowing you to avoid unexpected costs.
Taxi fare calculator and taximeter
Every taxi in Spain must have a taximeter – a device that automatically calculates the cost of the ride. The taximeter takes into account both the distance traveled and the time spent waiting (e.g. in traffic jams).
Therefore, for example, the duration of a taxi journey may affect the final price, especially during rush hours.
Additionally, many official apps (like TXMAD or Taxi Eibar) have a built-in taxi fare calculator that lets you estimate the cost of your ride before you start. This is a great option to compare prices in advance or plan your travel budget.
It is also worth knowing that the price of a taxi cannot exceed the rate indicated by the taximeter - the only exception are flat-rate trips (e.g. from the airport). Thanks to this, even tourists can use taxi rides without worrying about price "surprises".
How to order a taxi in Spain?
Looking for a convenient way to get around Spanish cities? Ordering a taxi in Spain is easy – just know a few options and your trip will be pleasant and stress-free. Whether you’re in the heart of Barcelona or the seaside town of Malaga, you have several options to choose from.
Order via app, phone or at a rest stop
The most convenient option is to order a taxi through a mobile app. Popular tools throughout the country include FreeNow , Cabify , and in Madrid – TXMAD . Taxi apps in Barcelona include AMB Mobilitat and PideTaxi, which allow you to not only book a taxi , but also check the price of the ride or track the car on a map.
If you prefer traditional solutions, you can always call one of the local taxi companies – in Madrid, for example, there are companies like Radio Taxi Independiente or Radioteléfono Taxi. However, remember that there may be a small surcharge for ordering a taxi by phone (e.g. €1–2).
Another common and convenient solution is to go to a taxi rank (Spanish: "parada de taxi") - they are located at train stations, airports, squares and near major attractions. Just go to the first car in the queue and ask if it is free.
How to find a taxi rank in big cities
In cities like Barcelona , Madrid or Valencia , taxi ranks are easy to locate. They are usually marked with a blue TAXI sign and a designated area by the curb.
Particularly large and busy stops are located:
at Barcelona Sants train station ,
in the city centre area (Plaza de Catalunya, Gran Vía),
at airports (e.g. El Prat in Barcelona, Barajas in Madrid),
and at bus stations like Barcelona Nord.
Some taxi apps show the current location of the nearest available taxis, making it even easier to find a vehicle.
Communicating with the driver and basic phrases in Spanish
While many taxi drivers in Barcelona and other tourist cities know basic English, it's worth learning a few useful phrases in Spanish.
They will help you not only in booking a taxi , but also in a pleasant conversation during the course:
“¿Está libre?” – Are you free?
“Al aeropuerto, por favor” – To the airport, please.
“¿How much will it cost to get to...?” – How much will the trip cost to...?
“¿Can I pay by card?” – Can I pay by card?
“Por favor, ponga el taximetro.” – Please turn on the taximeter.
“¿Me puede dar un recibo?” – Can I have a receipt, please?
Using a few of these phrases can work wonders – taxi drivers usually have a positive attitude when a passenger tries to speak their language.
If necessary, you can always show the address on your phone or on the map – a taxi will be ordered and will take you straight to your door.
Security and additional services
When traveling by taxi in Spain , you can count on a high level of safety and several amenities – especially in larger cities and tourist areas.
Child seats in taxis
Although not every taxi is equipped with a child seat, some companies offer this option upon request – especially in Barcelona , Madrid and the Balearic Islands.
If you are traveling with a child, it is best to book a taxi via the app and indicate the need for a child seat in the notes to the trip. In some cities, there are also family vehicles with more luggage space and ISOFIX seats.
Taxi ride with guide dog
Spanish law is clear: a blind person with a guide dog has the right to board any licensed taxi . The guide dog is not subject to any fees or restrictions. Drivers are obliged to help and cannot refuse to travel.
Lost items in taxis – how to get them back?
Lost something during a taxi ride ? Ask the driver for a receipt (recibo) – you will find the license number and contact details on it. If necessary, contact the headquarters directly or report the matter online (e.g. via the FreeNow app or the IMET website in Barcelona).
Many cities also have a special hotline for recovering items from online taxis .
In short – Spanish licensed taxis take care not only of comfort, but also of the passenger in every situation.
What are taxi prices in major cities in Spain?
Taxi prices in Spain vary from city to city, but are regulated by the authorities and must always be visible in the vehicle. Below you will find an overview of the rates for 2024/2025 in the most popular destinations.
Taxis in Madrid: Barajas Airport and City Centre
In Madrid, there is a flat rate of €33 from Barajas Airport to the city centre (within the M-30), regardless of time and traffic.
Apart from that:
entry fee: €2.55 (day) / €3.20 (night) ,
rate per km: €1.35 (day) / €1.50 (night) ,
extras : e.g. €7.50 for journeys from Atocha or Chamartín stations.
These are fair prices, especially since the ride from the airport usually takes 20-30 minutes, depending on the time of day.
Taxi in Barcelona and to the airport
In Barcelona the standard entry fee is €2.60 and the price per kilometre is:
€1.27 (day) / €1.56 (night) .
There is a surcharge of €4.50 for the journey from El Prat Airport and the minimum price for a taxi from the airport is €21 . Additional charges may apply for journeys from the port (Moll Adossat: +€4.50) or train station (Estació de Sants: +€2.50).
It is worth remembering that taxi prices in Barcelona are slightly higher than in other cities, but they go hand in hand with high quality service and 24-hour availability.
Taxis in Valencia, Malaga and Seville
In Valencia you will pay for a taxi :
entry fee: €1.85 (day) / €2.40 (night) ,
rate per km: €1.24 (day) / €1.35 (night) ,
Airport surcharge: min. €12.50 if the trip is short.
Taxi in Malaga :
entry fee: €1.71 (day) / €2.10 (night) ,
per km: €0.96 (day) / €1.16 (night) ,
Airport surcharge: €6.00 , min. fare from the airport is €16.62–20.78 .
Taxi in Seville there is a fixed tariff from San Pablo airport:
€25.72 (day) / €28.67 (night/weekend) – includes all fees, including baggage and time of day.
Taxis in the Canary Islands
In Tenerife South (e.g. Costa Adeje):
entry fee: €3.85 (day) / €4.25 (night) ,
per km: €1.35 / €1.55 ,
surcharge from airport or port: €2.10 .
Taxis in Ibiza :
Rates per km: approx. €1.21 / €1.47 ,
minimum fee: €3.65 ,
airport/port surcharges: approx. €1.80 , order by phone: +€1.20 .
Despite regional differences, the cost of a taxi ride in Spain remains moderate – especially considering the legality of the services, drivers’ knowledge of the routes and the lack of dynamic price increases that apps like Uber often use.
Transfers from ports and airports in Spain – what is worth knowing?
Traveling to Spain by ship or plane ? A convenient transfer in Spain from the airport or port to the city center is one of the most frequently chosen additional services in taxis - especially in places with high tourist traffic.
Airport Transfers
There are official taxis at most major airports in Spain, waiting for passengers in specially designated areas.
The most popular airports with a fixed fare or minimum fee include:
Madrid-Barajas (MAD) – fixed price €33 to the city centre (M-30),
Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) – surcharge €4.50, minimum fare €21,
Valencia-Manises (VLC) – minimum cost €12.50 from the airport,
Seville-San Pablo (SVQ) – fixed day and night tariff (€25–29),
Malaga-Costa del Sol (AGP) – surcharge €6, min. €16.62–20.78,
Palma de Mallorca (PMI) – surcharge €4.65, rates from approx. €15,
Ibiza (IBZ) – price to Ibiza town approx. €15–20, San Antonio: €30–36,
Tenerife South (TFS) – to Costa Adeje: approx. €30–35.
Transfers from seaports in Spain
Spain has many important ports for ferries and cruise ships. Most of them have taxi ranks , and some cities have special surcharges for trips from the port terminal.
The main seaports in the country include:
Barcelona – Port de Barcelona / Moll Adosat (surcharge €4.50),
Valencia - Port de Valencia ,
Palma de Mallorca – Estación Marítima ,
Málaga – Puerto de Málaga ,
Alicante–Puerto de Alicante ,
Las Palmas (Gran Canaria) – Puerto de la Luz ,
Santa Cruz de Tenerife – Puerto de Santa Cruz ,
Ibiza - Puerto de Ibiza ,
Cádiz – Puerto de la Bahía de Cádiz .
It is worth remembering that during the summer season and during large tourist influxes, waiting times may be longer – so it is worth booking a taxi in advance via the app or through the headquarters.
Taxis from the airports and sea terminals in Spain are a convenient and safe solution – especially if you have luggage with you or are travelling with your family.
Mobile apps for ordering taxis
In Spain , the most popular taxi apps allow you to quickly order a taxi without having to call or look for a stop. More and more cities are also developing their own tools to compete with the industry giants.
FreeNow, Cabify, Uber – Feature Comparison
FreeNow (formerly MyTaxi) operates in most major cities, connecting passengers with licensed taxis – you can track your route, pay from the app and receive an e-receipt.
Cabify offers both VTC rides and classic taxis , e.g. in Barcelona. It often has lower prices, but restrictions apply (e.g. minimum order time).
Uber operates mainly in Madrid, and in Barcelona it only acts as an intermediary for ordering official taxis .
PideTaxi and Bolt – local alternatives
PideTaxi is a Spanish application operating in hundreds of cities, integrated with local radio-taxi centers.
Bolt is present in several larger metropolitan areas – it supports both VTC and taxi services .
Book a taxi online and by phone
Both through apps and traditionally – by phone – you can book a taxi in advance. It is worth remembering that in the case of a telephone call, a small fee (approx. €1) is usually added.
What is the best taxi app in Barcelona?
In the Barcelona metropolitan area , FreeNow works well, as does the official AMB Mobilitat app, which allows you to book taxis , pay online and see the cost of the ride in advance (tarifa T-3). With it, you can be sure that your taxi will be ordered in accordance with local regulations.
Regardless of your choice, using the app is currently the most convenient way to reach your destination quickly and safely.
Frequently asked questions and practical advice
Are you planning a taxi ride in a Spanish city and have some doubts? Check out our answers to the most frequently asked questions – we have collected practical tips that will help you reach your destination safely and comfortably.
How to recognize a licensed taxi?
Licensed taxis have:
clear markings on the doors (license number and city coat of arms),
illuminated "TAXI" sign on the roof,
inside: driver ID and tariff sticker,
mandatory taximeter – should be turned on from the beginning of the journey.
Avoid cars without these elements – they may be illegal taxis .
How much does it cost to get from the airport to the city centre?
The cost varies by city, but fixed prices or surcharges apply:
Madrid (Barajas – city centre) : 33 €,
Barcelona (El Prat – city centre) : min. €21 (including €4.50 surcharge),
Seville (San Pablo – city centre) : ~26 € flat fee,
Palma de Mallorca : ~15–20 € for a short course,
Ibiza – Playa d'en Bossa : approx. €12, to San Antonio: €30–36.
It is worth checking the online price list in advance or asking the driver for an estimated price.
What to watch out for when using taxi services?
Always check that the taximeter is working – if not, politely ask for it to be turned on: “Por favor, ponga el taximetro.”
Make sure you can pay by card – although this is standard in most cities, there may be exceptions.
Ask for a receipt (“¿Me puede dar un recibo?”), especially for airport transfers.
Don't be fooled by inflated prices - the cost of a taxi ride cannot exceed the taximeter price (except for airport rates).
What are the most commonly used phrases in taxis?
Here are some useful phrases that can save the day:
“¿Está libre?” – Are you free?
“Lléveme al centro, por favor.” – Please take me to the center.
“¿How much will the ride cost?” – How much will the ride cost?
“¿Can I pay by card?” – Can I pay by card?
“Pare aquí, por favor.” – Please stop here.
“Gracias, que tenga un buen día.” – Thank you, have a nice day.
Although taxi drivers in tourist towns often understand English, a few words of Spanish work wonders
Can you transport animals in a taxi?
In most cases, transporting small animals (e.g. in a carrier) is not a problem, but it is worth asking the driver before getting in. Taxis with dogs in Barcelona (or any other city) are obliged to accept a passenger with a guide dog - this is guaranteed by law.
Can I order a taxi for a specific time?
Yes! Most taxi apps (e.g. FreeNow, PideTaxi) allow you to book a taxi in advance. This also applies to VIP taxis in Spain , which often serve business clients and airport transfers.
Are taxis available 24 hours a day?
Yes – in big cities like Barcelona , Madrid and Malaga taxis run 24/7. In smaller towns there may be fewer of them at night, but you will always find a taxi rank at the train station or airport.
How long does it take for a taxi?
The waiting time for a taxi in Barcelona or Madrid depends on the time of day and weather – it is usually 5-10 minutes. During holidays and fiestas it can be longer, so it is worth booking a mobile taxi in advance.
Finally, remember: always use official, available taxis , order them through trusted taxi apps , and if you are traveling with a guide dog or a child - inform about it when booking the taxi . Safe travel!
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