Barcelona transport cards are undergoing a significant digital transformation as authorities phase out the paper-based T-4 system.
Your browser does not support the video tag.
The cardboard T-4 cards ceased sales on October 28, 2025, marking the end of an era for the popular discounted travel option. Existing cards will remain valid until December 31, 2025, giving passengers time to transition to the new digital format.
The T-4 card, which offers 10 journeys at the special price of €2.15, will now only be available digitally through the pink T-metropolitana reduced fare card. This change represents a major step in modernising Barcelona’s public transport system. Furthermore, this transition aligns with broader infrastructure improvements across the city, including the recent approval of the Diagonal tram project after years of campaigning.
Barcelona Transport Cards Transition to Digital Format
The T-4 is a single-person ticket reserved for individuals who hold the metropolitan pink reduced fare card. It allows integrated travel across TMB’s metro and bus networks, metropolitan area bus lines, Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat services within the metropolitan fare area, and the Tram system. The card also remains valid at Airport T1 and T2 stations on the L9 Sud line.
Passengers must always carry their T-4 alongside their DNI or other identity documentation and their metropolitan pink reduced fare card. However, this requirement changes when the T-4 is loaded digitally onto the new T-metropolitana card. This integration represents the latest evolution in Barcelona’s public transport modernisation efforts.
The new T-metropolitana features contactless technology similar to the T-mobilitat system. It comes in three variants: free pink card for unlimited travel, reduced pink card for loading the digital T-4, and companion pass. Eligibility criteria remain unchanged despite the format shift.
Meanwhile, Barcelona’s transport network continues to see growing usage, as evidenced by the metro system smashing its August record with 30 million riders. This surge in passenger numbers underscores the importance of efficient, modern ticketing systems.
Residents registered in any metropolitan Barcelona municipality can apply for these cards if they meet specific requirements. Applicants must be over 60 (age varies by municipality) with family gross income below established limits, or have a recognised disability of 33% or higher while also meeting economic criteria.
The Metropolitan Area of Barcelona emphasises that both T-4 and T-metropolitana variants are personal, non-transferable titles. During inspections, passengers must always verify their identity with DNI or NIE documentation. This digital transition for Barcelona transport cards represents the city’s commitment to modern, efficient public transportation.
Join our WhatsApp broadcast channel for instant news updates!
Source: Read original article
