The Spanish capital is preparing for the arrival of Pope Leo XIV, who will visit Madrid from June 6th to 9th. Anticipating significant traffic disruptions, the Madrid City Council has announced a package of measures to facilitate the movement of citizens and visitors.

One of the most notable changes is that buses operated by the Municipal Transport Company (EMT) and the public bicycle service Bicimad will be free for all passengers from June 3rd to June 9th. This initiative aims to encourage the use of public transport and reduce vehicle congestion in areas where events are scheduled.

This measure will particularly benefit residents from nearby municipalities like Alcorcón, who often travel to Madrid for work, study, or leisure. They will be able to use the free public transport once they reach the capital via Metro, Cercanías commuter trains, or intercity buses.

In addition to free travel, the Council will reinforce the EMT fleet with 184 additional buses on June 6th and 7th, a 25% increase over the usual schedule. However, some lines crossing central Madrid will have their routes modified due to planned traffic closures.

The taxi sector will also be affected, as all licenses, including those scheduled for rest days, will be permitted to operate on June 6th and 7th to increase supply and meet the expected high demand.

The Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, has requested the cooperation of companies and administrations to promote teleworking and flexible working hours between June 3rd and 9th, aiming to minimize the impact of mobility restrictions.