After arriving at Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD), there are several convenient ways to reach Madrid city center. Whether you’re looking for an affordable option or a fast transfer, here’s a breakdown of your options.
Arriving at Terminals T1–T2–T3
Subway (Metro):
The Madrid Metro is a budget-friendly way to reach the city center. From these terminals, you can access Line 8 (the pink line), which connects directly to Nuevos Ministerios in about 15 minutes. From there, you can transfer to other lines to reach Sol, Gran Vía, or other central neighborhoods. A single ticket from the airport costs around €5, including the airport supplement. The subway line works from 6am to 1:30am.
Bus (Express 203):
The Airport Express bus (203) runs 24 hours a day and connects the airport with key stops in central Madrid. From Terminals 1, 2, and 3, the bus goes directly to Atocha station (the city’s main train hub) in about 35–40 minutes, depending on traffic. The ticket costs €5, and you can buy it directly on board.
Rideshare (Uber, Cabify, Bolt):
These app-based services are widely available at the airport and can be more comfortable if you’re carrying luggage. Prices vary depending on demand and traffic, but a ride to the city center usually ranges between €25 and €40. Pickup can be done right outside the terminal.
Taxi:
Official white taxis with a red stripe are lined up outside each terminal. A flat rate of €33 applies for all trips between the airport and the city center (within the M-30 ring road), regardless of time or traffic. If your destination is outside the M-30, taxis from Madrid-Barajas Airport use the standard meter fare, with a minimum of €22 for the first ~9 km. Beyond that, the price increases based on distance and travel time, so costs can vary depending on your destination, traffic, and the time of day.
Arriving at Terminal T4
Train (Cercanías):
Terminal 4 has a direct connection to Madrid’s commuter train network. You can take Line C1 to Chamartín station, and from there continue on the C4 line to Nuevos Ministerios, Sol, and Atocha. The whole trip takes about 25 minutes to the center, and tickets cost around €2.60–3.40 depending on the destination. Services are available from 6 AM to midnight.
Subway (Metro):
Like the other terminals, T4 also connects to Metro Line 8. The ride to Nuevos Ministerios takes roughly 20 minutes, and from there you can easily transfer to reach central locations. Expect to pay around €5 for a single ticket, having in mind the airport supplement. The subway schedule goes from 6 AM to 1:30 AM.
Rideshare (Uber, Cabify, Bolt):
There is a specific spot for the pick-ups of these services in the T4-Terminal parking (Parking P4, Module D, Floor 4). It can be accessed via the ramps/walkways from the arrivals hall. As well as from T1-T3 terminals, the ride to the city center usually ranges between €25 and €40 depending on traffic and the drop-off area.
Taxi:
Official white taxis with a red stripe are available right outside T4 as well. The same flat fare of €33 to the city center applies, with a minimum of €22 for the first ~9 km and standard meter fare from there if the destination is outside the M-30 ring road.
Tips for a Smooth Transfer
- For convenience, if you plan to take the subway, try to book flights that arrive before midnight, as the last trains run around 1:00–1:30 AM and delays could cause you to miss them. If you need a regular train, keep in mind that services stop around midnight.
- If you’re traveling with luggage or in a group, consider taking a taxi or booking a private transfer for greater comfort and convenience. Madrid is crowded, and using the subway or bus with heavy bags can be exhausting.
- Sol station is a great transfer point, as it connects Metro lines 1, 2, and 3, giving you easy access to anywhere in the city center.
- Google Maps or Apple Maps is recommended for finding the most efficient route to your destination.