Madrid airport to the city centre: metro, train, bus or taxi
Ideal for: FamiliesCouplesSoloSeniorsOn a budget
Contents
In short: Several options link Barajas to the centre: metro line 8 from all terminals, the commuter train (Cercanías) from Terminal 4 to Chamartín and Atocha, the express bus to Atocha, and taxis. Check your terminal first: T4 is some distance from the others.
Your options
Metro (line 8)
Line 8 serves all terminals and reaches Nuevos Ministerios, where you change for the rest of the network.
Commuter train (Cercanías)
From Terminal 4 only, lines C-1 and C-10 reach Chamartín and Atocha in about 25 to 35 minutes. A free shuttle links the terminals.
Express bus
The yellow express bus links all terminals to Atocha station; at night, it terminates at Plaza de Cibeles.
Taxi and booked transfer
Taxis charge a flat fare between the airport and the centre (inside the M-30); a booked transfer saves waiting with luggage or children.
Our tips
- Check your arrival airport and terminal: some cities have several, far apart.
- Plan the journey before you leave: offline map and the exact address of your accommodation.
- Have mobile data as soon as you land (eSIM or a suitable plan) to follow your route or call a ride.
- Late arrival, children or bulky luggage: a booked transfer saves waiting and changes.
- Beware of unofficial drivers approaching travellers in the arrivals hall: use the official taxi rank.
What next?
To choose your area, see Where to stay in Madrid; for sightseeing, Things to do in Madrid. All our tips for the country: Travel in Spain.
Frequently asked questions
How do you get from Madrid airport to the centre?
Metro line 8 from all terminals, the commuter train from T4, the express bus to Atocha, or a taxi, at a flat fare to the centre.
Does the train leave from every terminal?
No, only from Terminal 4. A free shuttle links the terminals.
How do you get from Madrid to Barcelona or Seville?
By high-speed train, in about 2 h 30.