You can buy many Sardinian public-transport tickets without carrying cash by using the official Around Sardinia app or web app, or one of the digital ticketing apps accepted by ARST. Before travelling, check which service operates your route and which ticketing options it supports. MooneyGo and Mooney services cover various transport operators, but don't assume they sell every ARST local-bus ticket.
1. Try Around Sardinia first
Around Sardinia is the regional digital ticketing platform for public transport. It lets you plan journeys, check transport information and buy digital tickets from participating operators, including ARST. It is available as a mobile app and a web app.
To get started:
- Open the official Around Sardinia website or download the app from the Apple App Store or Google Play.
- Create an account or sign in, following the instructions shown.
- Search for your route or the ticket you need and check that the relevant operator and service are included.
- Select the ticket and complete the available digital payment steps.
- Read the app's instructions for using or validating the ticket before boarding.
Official information: Around Sardinia ticketing platform.
2. ARST also lists other digital ticketing options
ARST's published ticketing information lists digital options including DropTicket and TabNet; its current regional ticketing information also includes Around Sardinia. The accepted option can depend on the ticket and service, so check ARST's official purchase instructions for your journey before relying on a particular app.
Start here: ARST — how to buy tickets. Download apps only through the official app stores linked by ARST or the regional transport portal.
3. What about Mooney or MooneyGo?
MooneyGo offers ticketing and mobility services for participating transport operators, while Mooney sales points support several transport-payment services. However, the official Mooney pages reviewed do not establish that every ARST local-bus ticket can be purchased through MooneyGo or at a Mooney shop.
If you want to use MooneyGo, search for your exact route and operator in the app and proceed only if the required ticket is actually offered. A Mooney payment receipt for a booking is not necessarily the travel ticket itself; follow the operator's instructions to obtain and validate the valid ticket.
Official information: MooneyGo and Mooney transport services.
4. Before boarding: buy, validate and keep the ticket ready
- Buy before boarding when possible. Do not assume you can buy any ticket on board; some services or systems may have restrictions or a surcharge.
- Check validation rules. Depending on the app, ticket type and operator, validation may involve a QR code, NFC, Bluetooth or another in-app step.
- Keep your phone charged. Open the ticket before boarding and make sure you can display it if inspected.
- Don't assume a screenshot is enough. Use the live ticket in the app and follow its specific instructions.
- Plan for poor signal. Purchase and activate the ticket while you have a reliable connection, and check whether the app makes the ticket available offline.
What if you have no cash and no internet?
Prepare before you reach a remote stop: install the relevant app, register if required and buy the correct ticket while connected. If you have neither a usable digital ticket nor a reliable way to purchase one, look for an authorised ticket office or vending machine where available. Check the operator's rules rather than assuming the driver can accept a card or sell a ticket without a surcharge.
Frequently asked questions
Which app should I use for ARST buses in Sardinia?
Around Sardinia is the regional platform for digital tickets from participating operators, including ARST. ARST also lists options such as DropTicket and TabNet. Check the current official ticketing instructions for your route.
Can I use MooneyGo for every ARST bus?
Don't assume so. MooneyGo serves participating operators, but you should confirm that the exact ARST route and ticket are offered in the app before relying on it.
Can I buy an ARST ticket with a bank card?
Digital purchase options may allow electronic payment, depending on the app and ticket. Check the payment methods shown at checkout before travelling.
Do I need to validate a digital ticket?
Follow the instructions for the specific ticket and operator. Validation methods vary, and some tickets require an action at boarding.
Can I buy a ticket after boarding?
ARST lists on-board purchase for some services, potentially with a surcharge, but exceptions apply. Buying and preparing your ticket in advance is the safer option.
The takeaway
For cash-free travel on Sardinia's ARST buses, start with Around Sardinia or the digital ticketing options listed by ARST. Check your route, payment method and validation instructions before boarding. MooneyGo can be useful for participating transport services, but verify that it offers your exact ticket rather than assuming it covers every ARST journey.
