Innovative move: Toulouse accepts cryptocurrencies for transit fares

Toulouse has officially become the first European city to accept payments for public transport in cryptocurrency. This innovative move, introduced by Tisséo, the city’s transit authority, enables passengers to pay for tickets with Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptocurrencies. The introduction is part of a broader push to modernise transport payments and adopt digital innovation.

Tisséo’s cryptocurrency payment system

Passengers can buy tickets online using a specialised payment system that supports several cryptocurrencies. Payments are immediately converted into euros through a third-party intermediary, ensuring that Tisséo receives the exact fare amount without being subject to crypto market volatility.

The system now accommodates mainstream cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), and other commonly used digital currencies. This move aligns with Toulouse’s digital transformation plan. As cryptocurrencies become increasingly popular in France, this step helps bring public transport into the modern era and serves a technologically advanced population.

Why Toulouse took this step

A 2024 study found that nearly 20 percent of French citizens hold cryptocurrency, with projections indicating growth to 30 percent in the coming years. Tisséo’s move aligns with this increasing adoption.

Sacha Briand, Head of Finance at Tisséo, said, “It might be 20 or 30 percent in two to three years, so to stay on top of things, and in the interest of modernisation, we’re launching this payment method. Users will pay in cryptocurrency, which is converted into fiat currency, so we receive the amount in euros. Like the rechargeable ticket we’re launching in a few days, this is an initiative to diversify our payment methods.”

To purchase a ticket, visit the official Tisséo website or mobile app and select the ticket type, such as single ride or multi-pass. Choose cryptocurrency as the payment option, complete the transaction via a secure crypto wallet, and receive the ticket digitally.

Potential benefits of cryptocurrency payments in public transport

By converting payments in cryptocurrencies immediately into euros, Tisséo eliminates the risk of market fluctuations. Moreover, sophisticated encryption techniques provide secure transactions. Cryptocurrency payments for public transport have various potential advantages. They allow faster and more efficient payments, enhance accessibility for foreign travellers, and decrease reliance on conventional banks.

Toulouse is at the forefront of crypto adoption for transportation. Other large cities have not yet adopted similar systems, but this project may be a precursor to future adoption.