Transit Options from Madrid Airport to City Center

Getting from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) to the city center is easy and straightforward, thanks to a wide range of transportation options. Whether you prioritize comfort, speed, or budget, Madrid Airport offers a suitable transfer option for every type of traveler.

OptionPrice (€)Price ($)Duration
Taxi33€33$20–30 min
Airport Express Bus5€5$35–45 min
Train (Cercanías)2.60€2.60$31 min
Metro4.50€–5€4.50$–5$45 min

Madrid Airport to City Center by Taxi

Madrid airport taxis are the most comfortable and hassle-free way to reach the city center. Official taxis are white with a red diagonal stripe and the Madrid city emblem. They are available 24/7 at the official taxi ranks outside all terminals, both at Arrivals and Departures levels.

Unlike standard metered rides, transfers from Madrid Airport to destinations within the M-30 zone have a fixed fare of 33€, regardless of traffic conditions, time of day, or public holidays. No extra charge applies for luggage.

Estimated travel time: 20–30 minutes (up to 40–50 minutes during peak traffic hours).

Madrid Airport to City Center by Bus

The Airport Express Bus (Line 203) connects Madrid Airport with Atocha Train Station. These yellow buses operate 24/7 and depart from all terminals:

  • T1 & T2: Arrivals and Departures levels
  • T4: Ground level bus stop

During daytime hours, the bus terminates at Atocha Station. From 23:30 to 06:00, it operates as N27 Exprés Aeropuerto and ends at Plaza de Cibeles.

Ticket price: 5€ (cash, contactless card, or mobile payment onboard)
Frequency: every 15–20 minutes (day) / every 35 minutes (night)

Madrid Airport to City Center by Train

The Cercanías commuter trains (Lines C1 and C10) depart from Aeropuerto T4 train station, located underground at Terminal 4. They connect the airport with Atocha Station in approximately 31 minutes.

Passengers arriving at T1, T2, or T3 can use the free airport shuttle bus to reach T4.

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

Ticket price: 2.60€ one-way / 5.20€ return

Madrid Airport to City Center by Metro

Madrid Airport is served by Metro Line 8 (Pink Line), which connects the airport with Nuevos Ministerios Station. From there, passengers must transfer to another metro line to reach the city center.

Metro stations are located at:

  • Aeropuerto T4
  • Aeropuerto T1–T2–T3 (located in T2)

Operating hours: 06:05 – 01:33
Frequency: every 6–8 minutes (day) / every 15 minutes (late night)

Total journey time: approx. 45 minutes
Ticket price: 4.50€–5€ (includes airport supplement)

Car Rental from Madrid Airport to City Center

Renting a car at Madrid Airport is ideal for travelers who want full independence. Numerous international and local car rental companies operate at all terminals.

To reach the city center, follow the M-14 to M-40 or M-23, then continue toward Calle de O’Donnell and Calle de Alcalá. Under normal traffic conditions, the drive takes about 20–30 minutes.

Private Airport Transfers from Madrid Airport to City Center

Private airport transfers are the most premium and stress-free transportation option. Your driver will meet you at the Arrivals hall, assist with luggage, and provide a door-to-door transfer to your accommodation.

Private transfers offer fixed pricing, modern vehicles, and personalized service, making them ideal for families, business travelers, and passengers with heavy luggage.