Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD) MAD: Departure times and transfers

Flying from/to Madrid Barajas Airport

When arriving to Madrid Barajas Airport, it can be unclear how to reach your final destination, or more generally, to the city centre. We, at Omio, have mapped out good things to know, facilities available when flying to Madrid Barajas Airport and what to do when you get to the city.

Travel from Madrid City Center to Madrid Barajas Airport

Madrid is the capital and arguably the most iconic city in Spain. It lies on River Manzanares, and is home to fabulous cuisine, glorious culture and impressive ancient architecture. Although it’s a modern city, and one of the most popular omes for digital nomads, it still maintains some of the antique architectural designs. Madrid has a well-developed transport system, and a modern airport. These include the use of public buses, taxis, cars, metros, and train network. For long-distance transport, travelers can take flights to Madrid Barajas Airport. This is the main airport in Spain and the sixth-largest in Europe, serving approximately 40 million passengers annually. The Madrid Barajas Airport is located approximately 18-kilometers from the Madrid city center. The fastest means of transport from the city center to the airport is probably taxi, which takes about 10 minutes on a good day.

What's the best way to get to the airport from the city center?

There are four options that travelers may take advantage of when traveling to the airport from Madrid City center. However, taking a taxi is the most recommended option. A fast bus can take about 10 minutes, however passengers should be sure to travel with licensed drivers. The airport taxis also offer convenient door-to-door services, and are reasonably affordable. Most passengers consider traveling by airport taxis as they are cheaper than other commercial taxis. Besides, one can choose to take other means such as airport transfers, buses, car rentals and the metro. However, some of these modes can be slow, while others can be inconvenient for some passengers.  Some options are known to overcharge the passengers, especially during peak hours. Those choosing taxis do it based on the fact that taxis are usually reliable and convenient.

How far is it from the city center to the airport?

The distance between Madrid city center and Madrid Barajas Airport is 18-kilometers. Travelers can get to the airport from the city center by either public transport or rented cars. Public transport mainly suits passengers with light luggage. However, travelers with tight timetables should book private transfers. Taking direct taxis to the airport takes a duration of 40 minutes. However, traveling by trains take about three extra minutes. Direct travel to the airport on buses can take as little as 12 minutes, but are known to be unreliable.  Most passengers prefer taxis and rented cars to buses and trains. In addition, taxis are faster and convenient. With these taxis, travelers don’t need to worry about how far they have to travel to the Madrid Barajas Airport.

What facilities are there at the airport?

Madrid-Barajas Airport boasts of various facilities that make things easy for travelers. The airport has two terminals where travelers can freely transit via shuttle buses or electric trains. There are several shops, a chapel, a post office and a business center. The airport has free WiFi. Both terminals have shower facilities available at a fee. Besides, economy class travelers have access to the lounges available by advance booking.

How accessible is the route for those with limited mobility?

Madrid Barajas Airport has dedicated check-in desks for travelers with limited mobility. The airport has accessible infrastructure for every passenger. The airport buildings are usable by all sorts of passengers including those with reduced mobility or disability. The stairs, elevators and washroom facilities are well sized for travel companionships and wheelchair users, and are equipped with alarms. The airport has an underground metro system with suitable stops for wheelchairs. Doors to the elevators freely open at the touch of large buttons. Accessibility to those with limited mobility is also improved by an increased number of specialized taxis for the disabled. These taxis are well designed to meet the needs of passengers with special needs. Wheelchair ramps and spacious interiors are also available for those with luggage. Besides, there are special buses and taxis that ferry passengers with reduced mobility to tourist attraction sites.

Local tips: How to travel to the airport like a local

A taxi ride is the best way to travel to the airport. Travelers with bulky luggage should consider using electric trains or buses, however it is advised to book tickets in advance to ensure seating. Travelers are also allowed to take food through airport security. However, the airport has placed strict rules for carrying drinks, which apply to open beverages, which must not be brought to the security check. The only exceptions to this rule are liquid medications and baby foods. Taxi tickets to the airport are better than trains and buses. This is due to the taxi reliability and convenience in travel services provisions.