How to Buy and Use Barcelona's NEW Contactless Transport Cards

Summary

Barcelona has revolutionized its public transportation with the introduction of a new contactless system called T-Mobilitat, phasing out old paper cards. This video explains how the T-Mobilitat works, detailing the four main ticket types: T-Casual, T-Familiar, T-Group, and T-Usual, each catering to different travel needs within the city, except for airport trips. It covers how to purchase these new rechargeable and contactless cards via the TMB app or physical cards, emphasizing the convenience for both Android users and others. The video also guides viewers through the ticket buying process at machines, making public transport in Barcelona easier and more accessible for residents and visitors alike.

Takeaways

• 🚉 Barcelona has adopted a new contactless public transportation system called 'TMobilitat' to replace the old paper cards.
• 🎫 The new system has four types of cards: T-Casual (10 rides), T-Familiar (8 rides for groups), T-Group (70 rides for groups), and T-Usual (unlimited rides).
• ⌚ All cards have a transfer window of 75 minutes, except T-Usual, which also includes airport trips.
• 📱 Travelers can buy tickets through the TMBB app (Android only) or purchase a personalized rechargeable plastic card for €4.50.
• 💸 The buying process is simple and can be done through machines at Metro stations, with options to change language and select zones.
• 🆔 The T-Usual card requires an ID or passport number for individual use.
• 💵 For short visits, it's recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the machines.
• 🔗 The script emphasizes the ease of transitioning to the new system, with minimal changes to the buying process.
• 🏛️ Visitors can also consider other cards that provide discounts for sightseeing, as discussed in the next video.
• 🌍 The new system aims to streamline public transportation in Barcelona, making it more convenient and user-friendly.

Q & A

What is the new contactless public transportation system being adopted in Barcelona?

Barcelona has adopted a new contactless public transportation system called 'T-Mobilitat' (T-Mobility), which replaces the old paper-based system.

What types of transportation will the T-Mobility system be used for?

The T-Mobility system will be used for trams, trains, metros, and buses throughout the city of Barcelona.

What are the four main types of tickets available under the T-Mobility system?

The four main types of tickets are T-Casual (individual, 10 rides), T-Familiar (shared, 8 rides in 30 days), T-Group (70 rides in 30 days for groups), and T-Usual (unlimited rides for 30 days for individuals).

What is the difference between the T-Casual and T-Usual individual tickets?

The T-Casual is an individual ticket that cannot be shared and does not include trips to the airport, while the T-Usual is an individual ticket that allows for unlimited trips within 30 days, including trips to the airport, but requires an ID to use.

How can travelers purchase T-Mobility tickets?

Travelers can purchase T-Mobility tickets through the TMB app for Android phones, by getting a personalized rechargeable plastic card at any T-Mobility office in metro stations, or by using the ticket machines at metro stations.

What is the cost of the personalized rechargeable card for T-Mobility?

The personalized rechargeable plastic card for T-Mobility costs €4.50 (around $4.50) to obtain, and then the cost of the ticket chosen is added to that.

Can contactless payment methods be used to purchase T-Mobility tickets?

No, contactless payment methods or tap-to-pay cannot be used to purchase T-Mobility tickets. Only cash or the rechargeable card can be used.

Are there any alternative transportation cards available for tourists in Barcelona?

Yes, there are some cards that can't be bought on the new T-Mobility system but can save tourists a lot of money while visiting Barcelona. The video recommends watching another related video to help decide which card is best for tourists.

How does the buying process work for T-Mobility tickets at the ticket machines?

At the ticket machines, users can select their desired ticket (e.g., T-Casual), choose the number of zones (typically just one for Barcelona), pay the displayed price, and receive a printed ticket or rechargeable card to tap at the sensor to access public transportation.

What is the transfer window for the T-Casual, T-Familiar, and T-Group tickets?

The transfer window for the T-Casual, T-Familiar, and T-Group tickets is 75 minutes, meaning passengers can transfer between different modes of transportation within that time frame.