When I first arrived in Madrid, one of the things I was most nervous about was transportation. I wasn’t sure how difficult it would be to get around a new city, especially in a different language. Before coming here, I was used to navigating public transportation in the U.S., which can sometimes feel unpredictable or limited. I expected getting to class and exploring the city to be stressful, but the reality has been completely different.
One thing that really caught me off guard was how smooth and well-connected the metro system is in Madrid. Trains run frequently, so waiting long for one is rare. The stations are clearly labeled, and almost every part of the city feels accessible by metro. At first, I was overwhelmed by the sheer number of lines. After a while, though, it became part of my daily routine. One major reason for this is the monthly transportation card for students. The card costs roughly 10 euros per month and gives students access to unlimited travel on the metro and buses, including commuter trains in the Madrid area.
Having access to all of these transportation options has made getting around Madrid both easy and affordable. For me, getting to campus requires both the metro and commuter train, which initially seemed complicated. However, after a few weeks of doing it every day, it became very easy. While my commute may have taken some time to complete, it also gave me a chance to develop a routine. I would listen to music, review notes, and observe people going about their daily lives in Madrid. Over time, this routine helped me find my rhythm here. Occasionally, the trains are crowded or delayed, particularly on days when classes begin early, but overall the system has proven to be reliable and consistent.
Another part of living in Madrid that I’ve really appreciated has been the proximity of my homestay to Line 5, the green metro line. My homestay is approximately 12 minutes from Gran Vía. Gran Vía is one of the most central and energetic parts of the city so being so close to this area has made it easy to meet up with friends, explore different neighborhoods, and experience the city more spontaneously. Having such easy access to downtown has also helped me feel more connected to the city, especially because I live farther from campus than I originally anticipated.
In terms of adjusting to Madrid and living here, I think learning how to use the metro has been one of the best parts of my transition. What once felt unfamiliar and intimidating is now automatic and has given me greater independence and confidence. More than anything, this experience has shown me how quickly a place that once felt unfamiliar can begin to feel like home.
Zachary Williams
Spring 2026
GW Madrid (GW Study Program)
Milken Institute of Public Health
Public Health Major