Madrid Barajas Airport |MAD| Spain

About Adolfo Suárez Madrid - Barajas Airport

Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Aeropuerto (IATA: MAD, airport code ICAO: LEMD) is the international airdrome that serves the capital of Spain. It was officially opened in the thirties of the last century and lately has risen to one of the most important aviation centers in Europe. It is ranked fifth in Europe and the fifteenth in the world by passenger traffic, under ACI agency statistics.

MAD has situated 9 km (6 miles) away from the main financial district of the city and 13 km (8 miles) northeast of the historic center. MAD is considered to be the gateway to Iberia from the European continent and the rest of the world.

The Airport of Madrid currently serves as the main hub and maintenance base for Iberia and Air Europa airlines. Previously known as Madrid-Barajas Aeropuerto, the name was changed to Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas in 2014, in honor of a former Spanish president of the Gobierno de España.

Contact information of MAD Airport

MAD is situated at Avda. de la Hispanidad s/n. 28042. The Madrid Airport opening hours are 24/7. For more info on flights and services provided by the airport, please call (+34) 91 321 10 00 or send an email to [email protected].

How busy is the airport in Madrid?

Airport city Madrid-Barajas is the busiest Spanish airfield serving more than 60 million travelers annually. The days from Thursday to Friday are especially overloaded which can provoke queues. Passengers should arrive at MAD 2-2,5 hours earlier for short-haul flights and 3,5-4 hours for long-haul air voyages to avoid being late on board. The busiest domestic routes from Barajas Aeropuerto include Barcelona and Aeropuerto de Palma de Mallorca.

Madrid Barajas Airport COVID-19 testing

If you are planning a journey to Spain, you are no longer required to provide a negative COVID test at Madrid Airport upon arrival.

If the country of your destination obliges travelers to show proof of the absence of the disease with PCR, rapid antigen, or antibody tests, you can refer to the certified Fly COVID Test labs located at MAD:

• Terminal 2 center which can be accessed from T1 on the way to T2, in the Departure zone.
• Terminal 4, on the second floor, next to the Business Center.

The laboratories are open daily from 7 am to 7:30 pm. Below you can check the prices for each testing option:

• PCR test at Madrid Airport with the results in 12 hours costs €79.
• Rapid PCR with a half an hour result is available for €100.
• Antigen Rapid Test costs 30€ (results are available in 20-30 min).
• Rapid antibody tests can be ordered for €35 (results will be available in 15-20 min).

Popular destinations from Madrid Barajas Airport

Being the important European aviation center, Madrid–Barajas Aeropuerto handles a total of 174 destinations within the country (including Illes Balears and Canarias) and all over the world. Popular flight voyages from Madrid Barajas Airport are as follows:

• MAD⇒Barcelona (El Prat Aeropuerto, BCN)

Barcelona is one of the most visited places in the world. Set between the Catalan Pyrenees and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture and stunning urban beaches. The quickest way to reach Barcelona is by plane (1,5 hour). The price for a ticket from the Airport in Madrid starts from €20.

• Madrid⇒Santiago de Compostela

Santiago de Compostela is a rewarding destination at the heart of Galicia. It is not only the final point of the renowned pilgrimage Way of St. James but also an amazing spot to explore, wandering around its historic center. The direct flight from the capital to Santiago de Compostela takes an average of 1h 15m.

• Madrid⇒Ibiza

Ibiza is a world-famous party destination, best known for its nightclubs, stunning remote beaches, challenging hiking trails, and mild climate. The distance from the capital of Spain to the island is 47 kilometers (292 miles), and the ticket cost starts from €30.

Airlines at Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport

MAD has four terminals T1, T2, T3, and the newest T4 which consists of two edifices — T4 and satellite T4S. Each terminal host's different airlines departing and arriving in the capital, so be sure to check which terminal your airline is based on.

• Barajas Airport Madrid Terminal 1 generally handles international routes, including the Middle East and Asia, hosting a total of 40 airlines.
• T2 is dedicated to Schengen zone flights and routes around Europe.
• T3 primarily serves air voyages within Spain.
• T4 and satellite T4S operate both local and international flights.

Below you can find the list of the airlines using T1, T2, and T3:

• Aegean Airlines
• Air France
• Blue Air
• Easyjet
• KLM
• Lufthansa
• Middle East Airlines, etc.

MAD Airport Terminal 4 and 4S host the following carriers:

• Aer Lingus
• Air Europa
• American Airlines
• British Airways
• Emirates
• Qatar Airways, etc.

Madrid Airport departures & arrivals alerts

At times, unforeseen circumstances, such as weather changes, incidents, or emergencies, make adjustments to the original flight schedule. In this case, travelers need to spend several hours at the airport, waiting for boarding. To make sure that your flight goes according to plan before departure, or if it was delayed or canceled, check the Madrid Airport status on our website.

Weather in Madrid, Spain

Madrid can boast a dry and mild year-round climate with only 65 precipitation days annually. Summer can be very hot, with an average temperature of 25-35ºC (77-95°F). In October, temperatures are mild, while in November, it tends to be cool and rainy. January is the coldest month when the temperature drops to 6ºC (43ºF). To be updated with the weather changes for the entire week and not let the weather hazards ruin your plans, check out the forecast in the table below.

Terminals at Madrid Airport

Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Aeropuerto consists of four terminals T1, T2, T3, and T4 which have a satellite structure 4S.

T1, T2, and T3 have six boarding modules: A, B, C, D, E, and F. Terminal facilities are conveniently connected with a free MAD Airport shuttle operating 24/7.

The main facility T4 is linked to satellite 4S via an automatic underground train.

Flights both to and from MAD are grouped into three categories according to the origin or destination and handled at different terminals:

• Schengen countries
• Non-Schengen countries
• Other (“third”) countries.

Madrid Airport Terminal 1

Terminal 1 at Madrid Airport is dedicated to international routes and is used as a hub for the next airline carriers: Air Europa, United Airlines, Easyjet, KLM, Lufthansa, and others. Upon arrival, passengers will find three levels in the T1 facility:

• The Ground floor serves as the Arrival area with the boarding gates A9-12, baggage carousels, and customs. Passengers of the Non-Schengen routes can reclaim their baggage in Hall 1, while Hall 2 is designed for local and Schengen flights.
• The first level is used for the Departure and Check-In. Here you will find the boarding gates B and C, and also A remote gates. To get to Gate A14-A1 in T2, you should pass Gate C46 and connect via Gate Zone B18-20.
• The second level hosts a VIP area where the premium Cibeles lounge for travelers on non-Schengen Zone flights to Madrid International Airport is located.

Madrid Spain Airport Terminal 2

T2 is the oldest facility operating since the opening of MAD. It mainly serves Domestic and Intra-Schengen flights. The boarding gates are distributed over the following zones:

• The ground level is dedicated to Arrival flights. Travelers can transfer to T3 from this floor on foot.
• The first floor serves as the Check-In zone. Here you can find the check-in desk assigned to your flight on the info screens.
• The second level is a hub for Departure flights. The boarding zone is situated in the center of this floor and is split into D gates D53-D66 (west) linked to T3, and C49-C43 (east) connected to T1.

Madrid International Airport Terminal 3

T3 at the Airport in Madrid is a facility integrated into the Dique Norte, but in fact, it is a separate check-in zone that is currently not operating. The gates and the baggage reclaim areas of T3 are already included in the T2 structure.

T3 consists of three levels with various amenities for passengers:

• The ground floor hosts the Arrival and baggage reclaim zones. Through this level, travelers can access the T2 as well as different services of transportation from Madrid Airport.
• The first level serves Departures and Check-In, providing a connection to T2. Boarding gates E67-E80 can be found opposite the gateway, Gates E81-E82 are placed on the upper floor.
• The second level is used for boarding exits to E81-E82 gates.

Madrid Airport Terminal 4

T4 is the newest facility at Madrid Airport which operates since 2006. It consists of the main T4 building and satellite 4S structure based nearby. These independent facilities are linked through an underground train, the APM.

The terminal has the capacity to serve around 70 million travelers annually. The main building serves domestic voyages as well as international routes within the Schengen area. The satellite Madrid Airport Terminal 4S is used for all international flights outside the Schengen countries. The gates are distributed over several terminal modules:

• Gates H1-H37 are based on the first level, module H
• Gates J40-J59 can be found on Level 1, zone J
• Gates K62-K98 are situated on Floor 1, area E
• Gates M22-M39 can be found on the Ground floor, area M
• Gates S127-S134 are located on Level 0, module S
• Gates S1-S50 are based on the first level, hall S.

Madrid Airport transfer between Terminals

Travelers can move freely between the facilities T1, T2, and T3 by foot in a short amount of time. For those passengers flying out of T4 or 4S, MAD offers a free automated train that operates between the two structures with an average trip time of 3 min.

There's also a free Madrid Airport shuttle transfer available on the MAD grounds. The bus operates 24/7 running every 15-40 min and stops at all five terminals (including satellite S4). Shuttles serve more frequently during the airport's peak hours and less frequently overnight.

Madrid Airport hotels

Those travelers who are in transit or want to take a break before their flight can use the Madrid International Airport accommodation options such as guest rooms. Modern fully-equipped rooms are available for an overnight stay and day use from 3 to 6 hours (from 10 am. to 6 pm)

The Air Rooms are situated in T4, on the Ground floor. A total of 22 elegant air-conditioned rooms equipped with double beds or two single beds, private bath or shower, hair drier, toiletry accessories, TV, lockbox, Wi-Fi, and courtesy mini-bar. You can also book a room in the following hotels near Madrid Airport:

• Hilton Madrid Airport (8 min drive)
• Madrid Airport Suites (9 min by car)
• Tryp Alameda Aeropuerto (5 min drive)
• Meliá Barajas (7 min by car)
• Ibis Madrid Aeropuerto Barajas (5 min by car)

Services at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Aeropuerto provides travelers with a wide range of complementary services to make their stopover as comfortable as possible. Some of these services are fee-based, and other amenities are only available at boarding zones.

• Banks and ATMs for cash withdrawal and currency exchange
• VAT refunds
• Wi-Fi access
• Kids' play zone
• Meet and Greet service
• Transit assistance
• Information booths
• Smoking area at Madrid Airport
• Lost and Found office
• Medical assistance and first aid
• Post Office
• VIP premium lounges
• Restaurants, cafes, bars, and food courts
• Duty-free, beauty stores, brand shops, farmacy, etc.

Madrid Barajas Airport | Guide to Entertainment

If your flight is delayed or you have arrived in plenty of time before boarding, MAD will offer you various options to spend time in the most exciting and entertaining way. You can refresh yourself with a cocktail, relax in the lounge, get an amazing shopping experience, or surf the Internet using free Wi-Fi. Below you will find Madrid-Barajas Airport guide on possible layover options.

Shopping & Duty-free at Madrid Airport

Use the time to visit one of the numerous shops located in MAD terminal buildings. You can buy gifts for family and friends, or treat yourself to elite clothes and accessories from the world-famous brand. Duty-Free stores will offer you a wide range of beverages and liqueurs, special food items, perfumes, cosmetics, and watches. International fashion brands Zara, Superdry, or Salvatore Ferragamo could be good options to update the wardrobe and create a new look. Do not miss the chance to pick up an official souvenir at the Real Madrid FC shop, or head to Sibarium for a Spanish gourmet goods.

Madrid Airport restaurants & food

Whether you have some minutes for a quick bite or would like to enjoy a full meal, Aeroporto de Madrid-Barajas Airport will provide you with a big selection of dining places for every taste and budget. Fast food or ready-to-go meals from Burger King and McDonald's may be a good option for those who are in a hurry. If you have enough time, you can treat your taste buds to a glass of local wine and traditional tapas in Kirei by Kabuki, La Mary, or Pepito Grillo. At least one dining spot per terminal is open 24 hours, so you can refresh yourself with a snack any time of the day.

Currency exchange at Adolfo Suárez Madrid Barajas Airport

If you need to change the currency or make other financial transactions, refer to one of two bank offices operating at MAD:

• BBVA serves in T4 on Level 0 (Arrival zone) and in T1 on Floor 2;
• Caja Madrid welcomes clients in T4 on Level 2 and T1 on Floor 2.

Use our free currency converter to know the current exchange rates at MAD and plan your budget more precisely!

Madrid Airport lounges

Lounges could be a perfect place for a calm pastime while waiting for a flight. Airport in Madrid, Spain, provides lounge facilities equipped with comfy seats, resting zones, Wi-Fi, workspaces, free snacks, and a broad selection of alcoholic beverages. Check out the list of lounges available for passengers at MAD:

• Cibeles is situated in T1 (Airside) between Gates B26 and B29. To reach it, pass the passport control desk and proceed to Floor 2, where you will find the 'Sala VIP' signs.
• Puerta de Alcalá serves customers in T2, on the second floor near Gate D62. Access is restricted to travelers of domestic departure flights from T2 and T3, Zones C and D only (Schengen flights from Adolfo Suarez Madrid-Barajas Airport only).
• Puerta Del Sol can be found in T3 after the safety control desk. To access the facility, move to the Boarding Zone and take the stairs near Gate E69 up to Level 1.
• Plaza Mayor is located in T4, on the first level, adjacent to the AENA Exhibition Room. The access to the lounge is reserved for Schengen travelers only.
• Neptuno Lounge welcomes travelers in the T4 Satellite building, on Level 2 (yellow sector). The lounge is designed for passengers of non-Schengen routes only.

Madrid Airport transfers to city

MAD provides convenient transportation links to the central districts of the city. You can hop on a bus, take a train or metro, call for a cab, or choose one of the fastest airport transfers in Madrid — car rental.

• Taxi ranks are situated just outside of MAD T4's main building. The authorized taxis in Madrid are marked with a red diagonal stripe. A flat fee to the central district is €30.
• Metro line 8 runs from T4 and T2 (Level 1). The ride to the city center takes 15 min. Underground trains depart every 5 min from 6 am to 2 am. The price of a single trip is €5.
• Renfe train Line C-1 could be a good option for those arriving at T4. The ticket can be purchased in any Renfe machine at the train station in Madrid Airport for €2.6.
• Express Bus serves 24/7. It has 3 stops in Barajas, in T4, T2, and T1. Tickets cost €5 and can be purchased from the driver.

How far is Madrid Airport from the city center?

The distance between MAD and the city is about 19 km (12 miles) but the time spent on the road greatly depends on the selected transfer mode. So, it can take about 40 – 50 min by bus without a traffic jam or 20 min by renting a car or ordering a private transfer.

Car rental at Madrid Airport

If you are searching for the most convenient and fastest way to explore Madrid city center and surrounding areas, then car rental could be a perfect solution for you. Using our smart search engine you can quickly find the most suitable vehicle according to your preferences. Check out all the available deals from car rental companies operating at MAD to compare prices and find the most affordable one. As Madrid is a tourist stronghold all year round, take care about booking a car in advance to have a wider choice. The car rental offices at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport welcome customers in the arrival halls in T1 and T4 main building. Below you can see the list of rentals operating at MAD: HERTZ, RECORD, EUROPCAR, AVIS, CENTAURO, OK MOBILITY, ALAMO, NATIONAL, SIXT and ENTERPRISE

Airport parking in Madrid, Spain

MAD offers over 10,000 parking lots, including P1, P2, P4, Express parking, Long-Stay parking, and Vip Car Park.

The public parking zone P1 situated in front of T1 and the multi-storied park P2 in the T2 building are convenient for a short stay as well as for picking up and dropping off passengers. If you need to leave your vehicle for a long time, use the service of Long Term Parking T1, T2, T3, and T4 situated outside the airport premises. A one-day stay with prior reservation costs €16. There is also a new Parking Bajo Coste connected to the terminal edifice with a free bus service.

Closest airports to Madrid Barajas Airport

There are five airports based in a radius of 250 km from Airport city Madrid Barajas:

• Madrid–Torrejón Aeropuerto (TOJ) is the secondary civilian airport for the metropolitan zone of Madrid. The trip from MAD takes 7-10 min by car
• Cuatro Vientos Aeropuerto is situated 12 km (7 miles) southwest of the city center and 27 km (17 miles) away from MAD
• Aeropuerto de Salamanca is a small airport operating domestic routes only. It is based 200 km (125 miles) away from MAD.
• Ciudad Real Central (CQM) is an international airport located a 2,5-3 hours drive from the Airport city Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas.

Cost of living in Madrid, Spain

Madrid is rated as the second most expensive city in Spain (8% less expensive than Barcelona). As an example, a meal in inexpensive restaurant costs on average €15, and for 1 liter of gasoline, you will pay €1.80. A one-month rental cost of an apartment in the city center starts from €1000. Below you can find a detailed list of prices for basic products in Madrid to plan your budget effectively.