Does Madrid Have Uber or Lyft?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Madrid, one of the first things you might wonder is whether or not the city has ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft. The answer is yes and no – let’s dive into the details.

Uber in Madrid

While Uber has been available in Madrid in the past, the service is currently suspended due to legal issues. In 2014, a Spanish judge ruled that Uber was operating illegally and ordered it to cease operations.

However, Uber continued to operate until December 2014, when it was officially banned in Spain. In March 2016, Uber launched a new service called uberX that used licensed drivers and vehicles in compliance with Spanish law. However, this service was also suspended in April 2016 due to disagreements with regulators.

Alternatives to Uber

If you’re looking for ride-sharing services similar to Uber in Madrid, there are several options available:

  • Cabify: Cabify is a Spanish ride-sharing service that operates in several cities across Europe and Latin America. It offers similar services as Uber, including private cars and professional drivers.
  • BlaBlaCar: BlaBlaCar is a carpooling platform that allows drivers to offer seats in their cars for long-distance trips. While it’s not exactly like Uber or Lyft, it can be a cost-effective option for getting around Spain.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Madrid and can be hailed on the street or via phone apps like MyTaxi or Hailo.

Lyft in Madrid

Lyft does not currently operate in Madrid or anywhere else outside of the United States and Canada. If you’re looking for ride-sharing services specifically from Lyft while visiting Madrid, you’re out of luck.

Conclusion

In summary, while Uber is not currently available in Madrid due to legal issues, there are several alternatives available such as Cabify, BlaBlaCar, and taxis. However, if you’re specifically looking for Lyft, you won’t find it in Madrid or anywhere else outside of North America. Regardless of which service you choose, be sure to do your research and understand the regulations surrounding ride-sharing services in Spain.