In the U.S., I had my own car. I needed a car to get to school and work since I lived in a very small town that doesn't have access to public transport. In Madrid, however, I have no need for a car! The public transportation system is easy to use and is super convenient for getting around the city.
Most people use metros, buses and their own two feet to get around Madrid. There are over 10 metro lines, and they all run quickly and on time. The most I've ever had to wait for the metro is about six minutes! Though I don't use the bus system very often, it is just as reliable as taking the metro.
Many people also commute into and out of Madrid for work. In this case, they use cercanías (commuter trains). I'm lucky enough that I can walk to work from my apartment, but I've taken a cercanía once before to leave Madrid to go hiking in a town called Cercedilla! It was only about an hour ride, and it was free with my abono joven (youth transport card).
Another wonderful thing about the public transport system is that it's easily accessible for people with physical disabilities. Most metro stops have elevators, in addition to stairs and escalators. Further, on the metros and buses, there are usually reserved areas for wheelchair users and parents with strollers.
