Whether you’re travelling in Spain or Latin America, using public transportation is often the most efficient way to explore. However, understanding the commonly used Spanish words and phrases on buses and trains can make your journey much smoother. From purchasing tickets to finding your seat, this guide will help you navigate the public transport system like a pro as shared by Hello-Hello is one of the leading Spanish language learning app developers for iOS and Android phones and tablets.

Here are some important words and phrases related to transportation in the Spanish language.

 General Transportation Terms

1. • Autobús: Bus
   • Tren: Train
   • Metro: Subway
   • Estación: Station
   • Parada: Stop
   • Billete/Boleto: Ticket
   • Horarios: Timetables
   • Andén: Platform
   • Salida: Exit
   • Llegada: Arrival

Buying Tickets

1. • ¿Dónde puedo comprar un billete? – Where can I buy a ticket?
   • Quiero un billete para [destino]. – I want a ticket to [destination].
   • ¿Cuánto cuesta un billete? – How much does a ticket cost?
   • ¿Es un billete de ida o de ida y vuelta? – Is it a one-way or round-trip ticket?
   • ¿Hay descuentos para estudiantes/jubilados? – Are there discounts for students/seniors?

Boarding and Directions

1. • ¿Dónde está la parada/el andén para [destino]? – Where is the stop/platform for [destination]?
   • ¿Este autobús/tren va a [destino]? – Does this bus/train go to [destination]?
   • ¿Cuánto tiempo tarda en llegar? – How long does it take to arrive?
   • ¿A qué hora sale el autobús/tren? – What time does the bus/train leave?
   • Suba por aquí. – Get on here.
   • Baje por allá. – Get off there.

Onboard Announcements

• Próxima parada: [estación].– Next stop: [station].
• Por favor, manténgase detrás de la línea amarilla.– Please stay behind the yellow line.
• Cuidado con el cierre de puertas.– Watch out for the closing doors.
• No apoye los pies en los asientos.– Don’t place your feet on the seats.

Seeking Help

• ¿Me puede ayudar?– Can you help me?
• ¿Qué línea debo tomar para ir a [destino]?– Which line should I take to go to [destination]?
• ¿Dónde puedo cambiar de tren/autobús?– Where can I transfer to another train/bus?
• ¿Cuántas paradas hay hasta [destino]?– How many stops are there until [destination]?

Emergencies and Other Useful Phrases

• ¿Dónde está la salida de emergencia?– Where is the emergency exit?
• He perdido mi billete.– I’ve lost my ticket.
• ¿Hay un baño en el tren/autobús?– Is there a bathroom on the train/bus?
• ¿Cuándo es el próximo tren/autobús?– When is the next train/bus?

Cultural Tips for Public Transportation

• Always greet the driver or ticket agent with a polite “Buenos días”(Good morning) or “Buenas tardes” (Good afternoon).
• In some countries, you may need to flag down buses at stops by raising your hand.
• Keep small change handy for tickets, especially in rural areas.

By familiarizing yourself with these words and phrases, you’ll not only make your journey more comfortable but also gain confidence in navigating Spanish-speaking countries. ¡Buen viaje! (Have a good trip!)