Uber was convenient and relatively inexpensive in Lisbon. From the our hotel near the Rato metro station to the Airport Terminal 1, it cost less than 10 euros at about 10 AM. In Madrid and Barcelona, we checked the Uber prices, and they were as much or more than the regular taxi.

In 2026, the cost of an Uber in Spain is generally competitive with local taxis, but the "best" value depends on the city and the time of day. In Madrid and Barcelona, Uber utilizes licensed VTC (private hire) drivers and even integrates traditional taxis into its app. For short trips within the city center, traditional taxis can often be cheaper because they operate on a fixed government-regulated meter and have better access to bus lanes, which saves time. However, Uber provides "upfront pricing," which is a major advantage for tourists who want to avoid any surprises. During peak hours or "surge" events like festivals or strikes, Uber prices can skyrocket, making a standard street-hailed taxi the more economical choice. Overall, Uber is not "expensive" compared to other European capitals, but savvy travelers in Spain often check both the Uber app and the local Cabify app to compare real-time prices before booking.