Transit Options from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station

Atocha Train Station (Madrid Puerta de Atocha – Almudena Grandes) is the main railway hub of the Spanish capital. Located close to Madrid city center and approximately 16 km from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), Atocha is the largest train station in Spain and serves AVE high-speed trains, RENFE services, and international routes.

Popular destinations from Atocha include Barcelona, Sevilla, Valencia, Marseille, and even Paris. For this reason, Atocha is often the final destination for travelers arriving at Madrid Airport. Fortunately, several efficient transport options connect MAD Airport with Atocha Station.

OptionPrice (€)Price ($)Duration
Taxi33€33$25–30 min
Airport Express Bus5€5$35–45 min
Train (Cercanías)2.60€2.60$31 min
Metro5€5$43 min

Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by Taxi

Official Madrid airport taxis are white with a red diagonal stripe and are available 24/7 outside all terminals. They offer fast, direct, and comfortable transfers to Atocha Train Station.

Although taxis are normally metered, transfers from Madrid Airport to destinations within the M-30 zone (including Atocha Station) are charged at a fixed fare of 33€, regardless of time, traffic, or public holidays.

Travel time: 25–30 minutes (up to 45 minutes during peak traffic)
Luggage: no extra charge

Tip: Always take taxis from the official airport taxi ranks at Arrivals or Departures levels.

Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by Bus

The Airport Express Bus (Line 203) provides a reliable and affordable connection between Madrid Airport and Atocha Station. The yellow buses stop at:

  • T1 and T2: Arrivals and Departures levels
  • T4: Ground level

Passengers arriving at T3 can walk to T2 (approx. 450 m) or take the free airport shuttle.

The bus operates 24/7 with a frequency of 15–20 minutes during the day and 35 minutes at night. Journey time is approximately 35–45 minutes.

From 23:30 to 06:00, the service operates as N27 Exprés Aeropuerto and terminates at Plaza de la Cibeles, as Atocha Station is closed overnight.

Ticket price: 5€ (cash, contactless card, or mobile payment onboard)
Note: Tourist passes and multi-journey tickets are not valid.

Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by Train

Cercanías commuter trains C1 and C10 depart from Aeropuerto T4 train station, located at level -1 of Terminal 4.

Passengers landing at T1, T2, or T3 can reach T4 via the free airport shuttle bus.

Operating hours:
C1: 06:02 – 00:01
C10: 05:46 – 22:47
(Combined frequency: every 15 minutes)

Journey time: 31 minutes
Ticket price: 2.60€ one-way / 5.20€ return

Tip: RENFE commuter trains offer adequate luggage space, and AVE ticket holders can use them free of charge.

Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by Metro

Madrid Airport is served by Metro Line 8, with stations at Aeropuerto T4 and at T2 (serving T1–T3).

Metro Line 8 does not offer a direct connection to Atocha. Two line changes are required:

  • Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios
  • Line 10 to Tribunal
  • Line 1 to Atocha

Total travel time: approx. 43 minutes
Ticket cost: 2€ single ticket + 3€ airport surcharge

Note: Metro trains have limited luggage space. Tourist Travel Cards offer better value as they include the airport supplement.

Car Rental from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station

Car rental is ideal for travelers who prefer independence and flexibility. Multiple international and local car hire companies operate at MAD Airport.

The drive to Atocha Station takes about 25 minutes via M-14, M-40, and A-3, depending on traffic conditions.

Private Airport Transfers from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station

Private transfers provide the most comfortable and stress-free option. Your driver will meet you at the Arrivals hall, assist with luggage, and offer a direct door-to-door transfer to Atocha Station.

This option is ideal for families, business travelers, and passengers with heavy luggage who value comfort and fixed pricing.