Getting Around: Transportation in Spanish
Getting from point A to point B in a Spanish-speaking country gets a lot easier when you know the right words. Whether you're catching a bus, hailing a taxi, or figuring out which train platform to stand on, this vocabulary will keep you moving.
Vehicles — Los Vehículos
Let's start with the basics: the things that actually get you around. Some of these vary between Spain and Latin America, so we've noted the differences where they matter.
In Mexico, el camión can mean both "bus" and "truck" depending on context. In most other countries, el autobús is the safe bet for "bus."
Public Transportation — El Transporte Público
Public transit is huge across the Spanish-speaking world. Mexico City, Madrid, Buenos Aires — they all have great systems, and this is the vocabulary you'll need to navigate them.
Learn from Your Home Screen
Vocabito puts Spanish words on your Home Screen with pronunciation, example sentences, and audio — so you learn without even opening the app.
At the Airport — En el Aeropuerto
Airports can be stressful enough in your own language. Knowing these words takes some of the guesswork out of navigating a Spanish-speaking airport.
Practice These Words in Vocabito
Flashcards, widgets, and daily reminders to make Spanish stick.
Useful Travel Phrases — Frases Útiles
Vocabulary is great, but you also need sentences that actually work. These are the phrases that come up over and over when you're trying to get somewhere.
When taking a taxi, always confirm the price before getting in: "¿Cuánto cuesta ir a...?" (How much to go to...?). In many cities, you can also say "¿Usa taxímetro?" (Do you use a meter?).
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between coche and carro?
El coche is used mainly in Spain, while el carro is the preferred word in most of Latin America. Both mean "car." You'll be understood either way, but matching the region helps you sound more natural.
How do I buy a bus ticket in Spanish?
You can say "Quiero un boleto a [destination], por favor" (I want a ticket to..., please) or "¿Cuánto cuesta el boleto a...?" (How much is the ticket to...?). In Spain, use billete instead of boleto.
How do you ask where the bus stop is in Spanish?
Say "¿Dónde está la parada de autobús?" (Where is the bus stop?). For the train station, use "¿Dónde está la estación de tren?" You can also ask "¿Hay una parada cerca de aquí?" (Is there a stop near here?).
What are common airport phrases in Spanish?
Essential airport phrases include "¿Dónde está la puerta de embarque?" (Where is the boarding gate?), "Mi vuelo sale a las..." (My flight leaves at...), and "¿Dónde puedo facturar el equipaje?" (Where can I check my luggage?).