Free Buses in Palma: End for Residents Likely in 2026

Free EMT rides for residents likely ending soon

If I stand this morning at Plaça d’Espanya in Palma, three lines would arrive at once — and with them the question that moves many here: Who actually pays for the free buses anymore? The answer is uncertain: The Spanish central government has apparently not yet decided whether to continue funding after 2025. Without a clear commitment, the model could run out in 2026.

Why this whole thing stalled

The municipal transport company EMT had to advance funds already in 2024 to ensure the free offer. That left marks in the books: "We suddenly had a gap in the cash flow," says a worker I met at the bus station. As a consequence, expenses had to be shifted and internal discussions about savings were conducted.

New tariff structure in the works

Parallel to the debate about the free rides, the Balearic government is working on a completely new tariff system. Planned is a zone-based rule for the whole island and a single ticket that should come at some point. The goal sounds sensible — less fine print, one ticket for multiple carriers — but the transition is complex and will take time.

Consequences

For many residents this means: higher costs from 2026 if the central government decides not to continue funding. Retirees, commuters and people with little money would be particularly affected. On Plaça de Cort today I heard an elderly lady say: "I take the bus almost daily to the market — that would be a real blow."

What happens now

The coming weeks will be important. Town hall and EMT are in contact with Madrid, the Balearic government must finalise the new zone concept. If Madrid does not provide funds, the city is left with only options to introduce charges or cut services. Walkers, office workers and tourists alike will notice something — certainly by 2026.

I will stay on it and report as soon as there are new numbers or decisions. And yes: ideally we would all glide around the city for free — but the till is not an endless source.