TIB local bus (red bus)

On the TIB intercity buses the easiest way to pay isn't cash but your contactless bank card (or phone): tap it on the reader when you get on and again when you get off. If you don't tap out, you're charged a €0.30 surcharge per person.

The charge reaches you the next day as a single amount, and you never pay more than 4 zone jumps, however long the trip; you also get up to 2 transfers within 60 minutes. One card can pay for up to 5 people, with a discount. On the Formentor bus (line 334) you're asked to pay by card, not cash.

Reviews say they're punctual with strong air conditioning, a lifesaver in August; in peak season they sometimes fill up and you have to wait for the next one.

With a bank card, the trick is how you tap for a group: when boarding, tap the same card (or the same phone) once for each person travelling, up to five; when getting off, one tap is enough. Always use the same card and the same device to get on and off: if you pay with your phone when boarding and the physical card when leaving, the system doesn't match them as one journey. If you forget to tap out, there's a €0.30 penalty per person.

The day's journeys are charged together the next day, and your bank may hold up to €20 as a pre-authorisation, released afterwards. For longer routes, such as Palma to Port de Sóller on line 204 through the tunnel, get to the stop early in summer: if the bus is full, you wait for the next one. If you'll use buses a lot, the Tarjeta Intermodal card also works on trains and the metro.

Frequently asked questions

Can I pay for several people on the TIB bus with one card?

Yes. When boarding, tap the same bank card or phone once for each person travelling, up to five, and when getting off tap it just once. Use the same device both times so the journey is charged correctly.

What happens if I don't tap out on a TIB bus?

If you don't tap your bank card when getting off, the system adds a €0.30 penalty per person. Journeys are charged together the next day and your bank may pre-authorise up to €20, which is released after the charge.

Updated in November 2026