Madrid Airport Guide - All Information on Madrid Airport (MAD)

The primary international airport serving Madrid, Spain, is Madrid-Barajas Airport (Spanish: Aeropuerto Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas (IATA: MAD), or simply Madrid-Barajas Airport). The airport covers an area of 3,050 hectares, making it Europe's second-largest after Paris's Charles de Gaulle Airport.

Within Madrid proper, it is 9 km from the city's financial district and 13 km northeast of the Puerta del Sol or Plaza Mayor de Madrid, the city's historic center. The airport in Madrid connects the rest of Europe and the world to the Iberian Peninsula. Connections between Europe and Latin America are greatly facilitated by this land bridge.

Transfer Services at Madrid Airport

There is a taxi stand outside the terminal's arrivals area with signs pointing in the right direction. Official taxis in Madrid feature the city's coat of arms—a white shield with a red stripe—on their doors.

Take the Madrid Metro Line to the city center from the airport, and get off at the Nuevos Ministerios station, which is right in the middle of the financial district. The fast and convenient Barajas Line 8 connects Terminal 2 to Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, as well as Terminal 4, which provides access to the heart of Madrid. The Spanish metro system connects to the country's main rail network.

With the opening of the Cercanas connection between Chamartin Station and Terminal 4, travelers have more options for getting where they need to go. Barajas Terminal, 4 in Madrid, is on the end of the single Cercanas Line, which provides high-speed train service to either Chamartn Station or Atocha AVE (C-1).

Bus stops, hotel shuttles, ridesharing offices, and car rental lots can all be reached on foot.

Rental Car Services at Madrid Airport

In the baggage claim area of Terminals 1, 3, and 4, you'll find a variety of vendors offering this service. The variety is enormous, with everything from cheap compacts to high-end luxury SUVs available.

If you need a rental car, you won't even have to leave the airport to get one; there are rental car counters in each terminal at Madrid Airport. In addition, you can save time and money by making a reservation in advance via the website.

Many businesses will give you a discount if you pay with a credit card. All drivers, regardless of nationality, must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driver's license.

Remember that most car rental companies impose an additional surcharge fee on drivers under 25 due to age restrictions on certain vehicle categories and insurance policy provisions.

See and compare all rental car companies at Madrid Airport.

Taxi Services at Madrid Airport

You can get into the city quickly and easily using this service, which is always available. Taxis can be reserved ahead of time or hailed from the stand outside the terminal.

Taxis at the airport are metered, and the fare to central Madrid is roughly €30. Fares for trips outside the city limits depend on the total distance traveled and the amount of time spent in traffic. Nighttime rides on public holidays and rides on Sundays may incur a surcharge. See more information about taxis at Madrid Airport.

Any rides that start at the airport may incur an additional fee. Tourists who want to get around Madrid in comfort and style without breaking the bank should use the city's reliable taxi service.

Train Services at Madrid Airport

The Madrid Metro Line connects the airport to the central station Nuevos Ministerios in the financial district of Madrid. The Barajas Line 8 connects the airport's Terminal 2 (with access to Terminals 1 and 3) and Terminal 4 subway stations to the rest of the city of Madrid.

The metro also links to stations on the Spanish rail system. With the opening of the Cercanas connection between Chamartin Station and Terminal 4, passengers have better access to a wider range of transportation options. Additional information about train services at Madrid Airport.

Only one Cercanas line, the C-1, connects Terminal 4 to the rest of the city, specifically the Chamartin Station and the Atocha AVE high-speed train station.

Bus Services at Madrid Airport

Travelers can hop on a bus and be in the city's heart in no time. EMT Madrid, Bus Line 200, and Intercity Buses are just some companies offering these routes.

Subway and train travel are both options, depending on the final destination. If you'd rather take a taxi to your hotel from Madrid Airport, they wait outside both terminals around the clock.

At Madrid's airport, passengers have many car rental agencies from which to choose. There are a variety of car rental agencies available in airport terminals, each with its own competitive rates and packages to suit any traveler's needs and budget.

For those who plan to drive around Madrid during their stay, the airport has a designated parking area with ample spaces. More information about buses to and from Madrid Airport.

Hotel Shuttle Services at Madrid Airport

Getting around Madrid is a breeze with the airport shuttles provided by the hotels. The shuttles run directly between the airport and various Madrid hotels, hostels, and tourist attractions.

Most shuttles operate on a regular schedule, providing passengers with the comfort of air conditioning and the convenience of Wi-Fi. Some hotels may charge an extra transfer fee, but getting to and from hotels is generally quite cheap.

If you would like more information, visit our hotel page.

Rideshare Services at Madrid Airport

Using a rideshare service is a hassle-free and cost-effective option for getting downtown. Several companies, including Uber, provide these services. At Madrid Airport, all ridesharing services can be accessed from the arrivals terminal, and each provides a high standard of service from knowledgeable drivers.

Kiosks can be found in the arrivals area, making it possible to arrange transportation without needing to locate a driver or install an app. Especially if you're taking a trip with more than two people, the price of these rides will be much lower than that of a taxi from the airport to the center of Madrid.

Parking Services at Madrid Airport

Seven public parking lots are available for visitors and permanent residents. The P1 parking lot can be found just outside the terminal. Terminals T2 and T4 can be reached directly from Parking Lot P2, located within the terminal.

Parking "Express," the airport's short-term parking lot, is located in Terminal 2. The airport's long-term parking lot has 1,655 spaces and offers a free shuttle to and from each terminal. Not all parking spaces are open to the public; some are set aside for high-profile guests.

See more information about short and long term parking at Madrid Airport.

Other Services at Madrid Airport

Other passenger services and amenities at Madrid Airport in Spain include bookshops, duty-free shops, a post office, banks, and ATMs. A huge selection of restaurants, bars, and cafés also serve local and international cuisine. For those wanting to relax before their flight, there are two spas offering massages and beauty treatments and VIP lounges with complimentary drinks and snacks.

The airport has many facilities for disabled passengers, including dedicated toilets, lifts, special assistance points in the terminal building, and accessible boarding ramps at aircraft stands. Baby changing rooms are also available throughout the terminals, and childreats play areas to keep kids entertained while waiting for their flight.

When it comes to security measures, Madrid Airport is no exception. It has implemented enhanced measures such as biometric identification systems that allow travelers to easily access restricted areas throughout the facility without having to present physical identification documents each time they enter one area. Advanced technology has improved safety levels immensely at this major international hub, making travelers feel safe through Madrid Airport's many gates and corridors.

Disabled Passengers at Madrid Airport

Madrid Airport provides a range of services to ensure that disabled passengers have the best possible experience when traveling through the airport. Wheelchair assistance is available for those who need it, and there are also low-level check-in desks for wheelchair users.

Facilities such as lifts, ramps, and adapted toilets are in place throughout the airport to make access easier. Passengers with hearing or visual impairments can request assistance from specialized staff members at Madrid Airport, while those with medical needs will find medical care facilities on site too.

The airport also has designated parking spots reserved for people with disabilities who require extra space around their vehicles. These spaces are close to the main terminals and can be easily accessed via shuttle bus or taxi services if required.

Wi-Fi at Madrid Airport

Wireless internet can be accessed by both travelers and employees in the facility. The connection is fast, reliable, and secure. It offers an easy way to stay connected while traveling or working at the airport. While on-site, users can access their emails, social media accounts, online streaming services, and more without worrying about buffering or dropouts due to slow connection speeds or unreliable service providers.

Travelers can also take advantage of free Wi-Fi hotspots throughout the terminal complex, making staying connected even easier while on the go. By leveraging its state-of-the-art Wi-Fi network, Madrid Airport has established itself as one of Europe's premier airports for passenger convenience and comfort.

Baggage Claim at Madrid Airport

This area is in the arrivals area on each terminal. They can be easily identified by signage and announcements over the PA system. Upon arrival, travelers should look for signs pointing to their respective baggage claim areas.

Once in the baggage claim section, passengers will locate their luggage on several carousels rotating at regular intervals. Each carousel is usually labeled with a flight number, destination airport code, and an estimated time when this flight's bags should start arriving.

Travelers may also use airline mobile apps or call customer service hotlines to check if their items have already arrived at Madrid Airport's Baggage Claim Area before arriving there themselves so that they don't have to wait around unnecessarily once they arrive there.

Information Desk at Madrid Airport

These sections offer several services to ensure visitors have all the necessary information for their journey. Visitors can inquire about entry requirements, transportation options, currency exchange rates, and more at these desks.

Smoking at Madrid Airport

Smoking restrictions have been in place for over a decade. The ban applies to all areas of the airport, including inside the terminal and on its grounds. There are designated smoking areas outside the airport. Still, these must be used by smokers who wish to enjoy a cigarette or an e-cigarette while at Madrid Airport.

This practice helps keep the air quality high, ensuring passengers have a pleasant experience. At the same time, they travel through one of Spain's busiest airports. Airports around the world are following suit and introducing similar restrictions as part of their efforts to improve air quality in terminals and reduce potential health hazards created by second-hand smoke exposure.

Lost and Found Section at Madrid Airport

They are open 24/7 to help passengers with their lost luggage or items, and contact details are printed on the information board at all times. All objects found by airport personnel within 24 hours of being reported missing will be stored at Lost and Found until they can be returned to their rightful owner.

To ensure a speedy return, provide as much detail as possible when reporting any lost item - including flight number, seat number, the color of the object, etc. In addition, if you've already boarded your departing flight but left something behind at Madrid Airport, you can also call the Lost and Found services from wherever you may be.

For more complex cases, such as delayed baggage claims or larger items like sports equipment, customers should make an appointment with Lost and Found staff via email for an in-depth consultation before reclaiming their possessions.

Restrooms at Madrid Airport

The restrooms are spacious, clean, and well-maintained. A wide variety of amenities are available in each restroom, such as toilet paper, hand soap, paper towels, and sometimes even vending machines for snacks and drinks. Additionally, there are changing tables for babies and family restrooms with extra space.

To ensure that travelers have access to a restroom no matter where they may be on the premises, Madrid Airport has installed signs both inside the terminal buildings and along pathways leading to various points of interest within the airport complex. This ensures that all travelers can easily locate a restroom when they need one.

Nursing Mothers Station at Madrid Airport

Nursing mothers can find this service at the airport. They will be provided with a clean and hygienic space equipped with armchairs, changing mats, and electrical sockets to plug in electric breast pumps.

The room also has a sink so women can wash bottles if needed. This is an invaluable service for nursing mothers traveling through Madrid Airport, allowing them to feed their babies without feeling rushed or stressed out.

It is also great for those passengers who may have yet to be able to plan ahead by bringing along appropriate supplies like bottles or formula in case of delays. Overall, Madrid Airport's services provide essential resources for nursing mothers who make traveling much easier and stress-free.

ATMs at Madrid Airport

This service is available to help travelers access to cash quickly and easily. ATMs accept most major credit cards and provide a convenient way to withdraw euros or convert foreign currencies into local currency. Madrid Airport also offers various banking services, such as transfers and deposits, at the airport's numerous counters located in the main terminal building.

Travelers can also buy international money orders from ATM locations within the airport. Furthermore, travelers can exchange their foreign currency for Euros at one of the several exchange booths located throughout the airport terminal buildings.

Madrid Airport staff is always ready to assist travelers with inquiries about how best to use their finances while traveling through Spain. They will be able to explain all aspects related to using an ATM or engaging in other financial transactions at Madrid Airport before departure from Spain or after arrival into Spain, depending on each traveler's requirements.

Currency Exchange at Madrid Airport

The service is located in the main terminal, in a dedicated area near the check-in counters and other shops. The staff at Madrid Airport's currency exchange services can assist with selecting foreign currencies and advise on current rates of exchange.

They also offer assistance with traveler's checks, credit cards, ATM withdrawals, and more. With competitive rates and knowledgeable staff, exchanging your money for euros before travel is easy at Madrid Airport.

Many foreign currencies can be exchanged at Madrid Airport, including US dollars, British pounds sterling, Canadian dollars, Japanese Yen, Swiss Francs, and many others.

For those needing to make larger exchanges or wanting to buy Euros in bulk, special deals can save time and money when converting your cash before departure from Madrid airport.

Food and Beverages at Madrid Airport

Food and beverage services at Madrid Airport are as diverse and varied as the travelers that pass through it. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or an elaborate meal, there is something to satisfy every type of traveler passing through Madrid Airport.

For those on the go, grab-and-go kiosks offer food items such as sandwiches, salads, pastries, and other light snacks to eat between flights. If you have more time and want a sit-down meal, head to one of the many restaurants within the airport offering up traditional Spanish cuisine along with international favorites like burgers and sushi.

There are also several bars around the terminal where travelers can enjoy drinks. At the same time, they wait for their flight or connect with friends before heading home.

Shopping at Madrid Airport

Travelers can pick up souvenirs, traditional Spanish products, and even some international brands. The airport has a wide variety of shops, from duty-free to luxury boutiques. In addition to the stores in the terminals, there are several options outside of the airport within easy reach by public transportation or taxi, depending on your needs.

Madrid Airport has everything from high-end fashion stores to less expensive alternatives such as Zara. Whether looking for gifts or just treating yourself after a long flight, shopping at Madrid Airport is an experience to be noticed.

Pet Relief at Madrid Airport

The airport offers various services, including pet boarding, daycare, and transportation. Pet boarding is available for short-term and long-term stays depending on the traveler's needs. Daycare services include exercise and playtime with trained professionals who understand how to properly care for your animal companion so you can rest assured that your pet will be cared for while you enjoy your travels.

Pet transportation is also offered at Madrid Airport, allowing passengers to bring their pets with them when they travel without having to worry about making arrangements separately. With all these convenient options available, it's no wonder why more people are choosing Madrid Airport as their preferred choice when traveling with their four-legged family members.

Ticketing Services at Madrid Airport

This service makes your travel experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. There is a wide variety of ticketing options, from self-service kiosks to traditional ticket counters. The airport also offers online booking services, making it easy for travelers to book flights in advance and avoid long queues at the airport. Travelers can purchase tickets with a major credit card or cash, so there's an option for everyone.

All passengers must present their boarding passes at security before proceeding through customs. Madrid Airport also has helpful staff throughout the terminal that can answer questions about flight times and other related topics. With its convenient location outside downtown, Madrid Airport provides excellent access points to Spain's bustling capital city.

History of Madrid Airport

The airport's construction began in 1927, and it first welcomed commercial flights in 1931. But normal business operations did start two years later. In addition to several hangars and the Avión Club, a small terminal was built with an annual passenger capacity of 30,000. In the 1930s, the airport began its first international flights, servicing locations in Europe and Africa.

The original flight field was an unpaved, large circular area with the name Madrid painted white in the center. The 1940s saw the paving of the flight field and the planning of brand-new runways. The original runway, which opened for business in 1944, measured 1,400 meters in length and 45 meters in width. There were once three runways at the airport, but they had all been destroyed by the end of the decade. Flights to Latin America and the Philippines first took off in the late 1940s on a regular schedule.

Over 500,000 passengers used the airport in the 1950s when it expanded to five runways, and regular flights to New York City began. Construction on what is now known as T2 (then known as the National Terminal) began in 1954 and was completed that same year. Barajas Airport is a major international hub, so it naturally ranks high in the Plan of Airports from 1957.

In the 1970s, Barajas began accepting large jets, and the airport's traffic growth, spurred primarily by increased tourists, far surpassed projections. The airport's passenger volume doubled from the Plan of Airports of 1957 to the beginning of this decade when it reached 1.2 million.

The airport saw 4 million passengers in the 1970s due to increased tourism and the introduction of the Boeing 747. The building of the international terminal got underway. The shuttle service between Madrid and Barcelona was first introduced in 1974 by Iberia, L.A.E. It operates multiple times per day and does not require reservations.

About Madrid, Spain

Spain's capital and largest city are Madrid. Nearly 3.4 million people call the city and its surrounding metro area home. It has the second-largest metropolitan area and the second-largest city in the European Union.

Madrid is located in the heart of the Iberian Peninsula on the banks of the Manzanares River. Madrid, the capital of Spain and its own autonomous community, is also the country's political, economic, and cultural heart. The nearest coastline is about 300 kilometers from the city, which is located on a plateau.

The metropolitan area surrounding Madrid, Spain, produces the E.U.'s second-highest gross domestic product. It is one of the world's leading financial centers and cultural epicenters because of its impact on politics, education, entertainment, the environment, the media, fashion, science, culture, and the arts.

Madrid is the economic and financial center of the Iberian Peninsula and Southern Europe because of its sizeable market, high standard of living, and economic output. Major Spanish corporations like Telefónica, Iberia, BBVA, and F.C.C. are headquartered in the metropolitan area.

The United Nations World Tourism Organization, the Organization of Ibero-American States, and the Public Interest Oversight Board all have their headquarters in Madrid. It is home to the headquarters of the Royal Spanish Academy, the Instituto Cervantes, the Foundation for New Spanish, and the Standing Committee of the Association of Spanish Language Academies. Fairs like Madrid Fashion Week are held in the city. Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid are two of the most prestigious football teams in the world, and they are both based in Madrid.

Modern amenities abound in Madrid, but the city has kept many of its historic districts looking authentic. The Plaza Mayor, home to the Royal Palace of Madrid, the Royal Theatre (with its restored 1850 Opera House), the 1631-established Buen Retiro Park, the 19th-century National Library building (which houses some of Spain's historical archives), several national museums, and the Golden Triangle of Art (the Prado Museum, the Reina Sofa Museum, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum) can all be found along the Paseo de The Cibeles Palace, and Fountain are now recognized as one of the city's most recognizable landmarks.

Weather in Madrid, Spain

Madrid has brief, hot, dry, and mostly clear summers and long, very cold, partly cloudy winters. Temperatures rarely drop 23 degrees below or rise above 99 degrees Fahrenheit over a year.

The warmest temperatures in Madrid are experienced between the months of late June and late August, making this the ideal time to visit the city. Temperatures above 83 degrees Fahrenheit are the norm from June through September, the height of the hot season. July is the warmest month, with an average temperature of 91°F and a low of 63°F. From November until March, the average daily high temperature drops below 58 degrees Fahrenheit, making this the cool season.

January has the year's coldest average high and low temperatures, at 51 °F and 33 °F, respectively. During the wetter season, precipitation occurs on an average of seven days between October and June. On average, the driest days of the year occur in July, but the dry season lasts for nearly four months, from June to October.

Useful Contact Details in Madrid, Spain

In the case of a police or medical emergency in Madrid, Spain, it is important to call 112. This number connects you to both police and medical services throughout the country. If necessary, seek local help from nearby stores, businesses, or pharmacies for assistance with translation services. Alternatively, visitors can also visit their nearest Police Station and report any incident that requires immediate attention.

Hospital

HM Hospitales

Address: Avda. de Montepríncipe, 25 28660 Boadilla del Monte, Madrid, Spain

Phone: (+34) 91 937 00 00

Police

Municipal Police

Address: Trespaderne Street 16, 28042 Madrid, Spain

Phone: (+34) 917 481 855

Madrid Airport Contacts

Address: Av de la Hispanidad, 28042 Madrid, Spain

General Phone: +34 913 21 10 00

Lost and Found Phone: +34 913 21 10 00