You’ve just landed at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas International Airport. As soon as you step off the plane, one question naturally arises : how do you get to the city center quickly and stress-free? Good news: Madrid has one of the most efficient and diverse transport networks in Europe, with solutions for every type of traveler.
We’ve tested all the main options for you, from the convenient metro to the comfortable taxi, the express bus and private transfers. Here’s our complete guide to help you choose the option that suits you best.
- Key facts to know
- Metro : practical and budget-friendly
- 24/7 Express bus: simple and efficient
- Official taxi : fixed fare, no surprises
- Private transfer with driver : total peace of mind
- Cercanías commuter train
- Car rental at the Airport
- Quick comparison
- Vivre Madrid’s insider tip
- FAQ
- Let your vacation begin!
Key facts to know
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) is located about 13 km (8 miles) from the city center. It has 4 terminals (T1 to T4), all well connected by public transportation.
Metro : practical and budget-friendly
This is our favorite option. It’s simple, direct and affordable. From the airport, take Metro Line 8, which serves Terminals T1, T2 and T4, and goes directly to Nuevos Ministerios, right in the heart of Madrid.
Advantages:
- 30 minutes to the city center, with easy connections to Lines 4, 6 and 10
- Fare: about €5 (standard ticket + airport supplement)
- Hours: from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m., daily
Good to know:
You’ll need to purchase a reusable transport card at the machines. A €3 card fee is mandatory, in addition to the metro fare. The machines are multilingual and easy to use.
Read our full guide: Getting around Madrid: the complete public transport guide
24/7 Express bus: simple and efficient
This bright yellow bus (Linea 203 B) connects Madrid Airport directly to the city center, with its final stop at Atocha, and intermediate stops at O’Donnell and Plaza de Cibeles. It operates day and night, which makes it extremely convenient.
- Fare: €5 (cash or card)
- Journey time: about 40 minutes
- Frequency: every 15–20 minutes during the day, every 35 minutes at night
This is our favorite backup option for late-night arrivals. It’s fast and affordable, but has limited stops. You may need a metro connection afterward depending on your destination.
Click here to find out more about the express bus.
Official taxi : fixed fare, no surprises
If you’re traveling with several people or with children, taxis are very convenient. All official Madrid taxis are white with a red stripe. After collecting your luggage, follow the signs for the official taxi rank. The system is well organized with staff directing passengers.
- Fixed fare: €33 between the airport and anywhere within central Madrid
- To western suburbs: around €55
- Travel time: 25-35 minutes depending on traffic
No need to negotiate, the price is regulated and transparent.
f you want to take a cab with young children, you’ll have to deal with the problem of car seats, which represent a significant additional cost. Several times we’ve been refused access to cabs because we didn’t have car seats for children.
Private transfer with driver : total peace of mind
For maximum comfort, this is the best option. Your driver will be waiting at the terminal with a sign bearing your name, help you with your luggage, and drop you directly at your accommodation.
We personally used this service on our first arrival in Madrid with children and many suitcases, and it was extremely reassuring. We often recommend it to our friends visiting Madrid.
- Price: from €35 per vehicle (up to 4 people)
- Child seats available on request (not usually available in regular taxis)
Cercanías commuter train
You can also reach Madrid’s historic stations by Cercanías train, but only from Terminal 4 (T4). Take Line C1, which serves:
- Chamartín
- Nuevos Ministerios
- Recoletos
- Atocha
- Príncipe Pío
- Price: about €3, or free with a Renfe/AVE long-distance train ticket
- Hours: around 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
- Travel time: about 25 minutes
This is an excellent choice if you’re continuing your journey to another Spanish city from Atocha.
Have you heard of Jardines Lockers, luggage storage rental? It’s the ideal service if you want to leave your luggage in a safe place so you can visit Madrid at your leisure. Discover the options available.
Car rental at the Airport
If you’re planning to explore Madrid’s surroundings or travel across Spain, renting a car is a great option. Major rental agencies are located in T1 and T4.
Important advice: Avoid ultra-cheap rental companies offering prices like €7–8/day — hidden fees, insurance add-ons and deposits often make the final cost much higher. We speak from experience!
You can compare reliable offers through our long-time partner DiscoverCars.
Quick comparison
| Option | Time | Price | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Metro | ~30 min | €5 | Solo travelers, tight budgets |
| Express bus | ~40 min | €5 | Late arrivals, simplicity |
| Taxi | ~30 min | €33 | Families, luggage |
| Private transfer | ~30 min | From €35 | Comfort, peace of mind |
| Cercanías train | ~25 min | €0–€3 | Atocha / Chamartín connections |
| Rental car | — | From €30/day | Road trips, rural areas |
Vivre Madrid’s insider tip
To make the most of your stay and keep all essential information at hand, download our « Visit Madrid in a Few Days » guide. Inside you’ll find:
- Must-see attractions
- Original experiences and off-the-beaten-path ideas
- Our favorite rooftops
- A curated selection of restaurants and accommodations
- A practical downloadable map
A true pocket companion to explore Madrid like a local!
FAQ
Is the metro easy with kids? If your children are very young, the metro may not be the best option. Some stations have stairs and limited elevator access. In this case, we recommend the bus or a taxi, especially if you have a stroller.
Can I pay by credit card? Yes, ticket machines accept cards. The express bus also accepts card payments. If paying cash, make sure to have exact change.
Should I book a taxi in advance? No need, taxis are always available at the official ranks, day and night. However, you can pre-book through local taxi apps if you prefer.
Is there a free shuttle between terminals? Yes. A free green shuttle bus runs 24/7 between all airport terminals.
Let your vacation begin!
Whatever your budget, schedule or travel style, there is always a simple way to reach Madrid’s city center from the airport. Choose the option that best fits your needs, and for an unforgettable stay, download our Madrid guides or book one of our favorite activities.
Go further in planning your trip to Madrid :
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