Madrid Airport (MAD) – Frequently Asked Questions
1. How many terminals does Madrid Airport have?
Madrid-Barajas Airport has four passenger terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Terminal 4 also includes the satellite building T4S for many international flights.
2. How far is Madrid Airport from the city center?
The airport is located about 12 km northeast of downtown Madrid. Travel time to the city center usually ranges between 20 and 35 minutes depending on the transport option.
3. How do I transfer between terminals at Madrid Airport?
A free airport shuttle bus connects all terminals (T1, T2, T3 and T4). Terminal 4 and T4S are connected by the underground automated train.
4. Is Madrid Airport open 24 hours?
Yes. Madrid-Barajas Airport operates 24 hours a day, although some shops and restaurants may close during the night.
5. How early should I arrive at Madrid Airport?
Airlines usually recommend arriving at least 2 hours before domestic or European flights and 3 hours before long-haul international flights.
6. What transport options are available from Madrid Airport?
Passengers can use metro, commuter trains (Cercanías), airport buses, taxis, ride-hailing services, car rentals or private transfers.
7. Is there a metro station at the airport?
Yes. Metro Line 8 connects Madrid Airport with Nuevos Ministerios. Stations are located at Terminals 1-2-3 and Terminal 4.
8. Is there a train station at Madrid Airport?
Yes. The Cercanías commuter train station is located at Terminal 4 and connects the airport with Atocha, Chamartín and other railway hubs.
9. How much is a taxi from Madrid Airport to the city center?
The official fixed taxi fare between the airport and destinations within the M-30 ring road in central Madrid is €33.
10. Are taxis safe at Madrid Airport?
Yes. Official taxis are regulated and available at designated taxi ranks outside the terminals.
11. Does Madrid Airport offer free Wi-Fi?
Yes. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminals. Passengers can connect to the airport network and browse the internet for free.
12. Are there hotels at Madrid Airport?
Yes. Several hotels are located near the airport and some are directly connected to Terminal 4. Many hotels also offer shuttle services.
13. Can I store luggage at the airport?
Yes. Luggage storage facilities are available at Terminal 1 where passengers can store bags for several hours or days.
14. What should I do if I lose an item at the airport?
You should contact the airport Lost & Found office. If the item was lost onboard the aircraft, contact the airline directly.
15. Is there duty-free shopping at Madrid Airport?
Yes. Duty-free stores are available in international departure areas across several terminals.
16. Are there airport lounges available?
Yes. Madrid Airport has several lounges accessible for business class passengers or travelers with lounge memberships.
17. Can I sleep at Madrid Airport overnight?
Yes. The airport remains open overnight and some seating areas allow passengers to rest until their next flight.
18. Is Madrid Airport accessible for passengers with reduced mobility?
Yes. All terminals provide elevators, adapted restrooms and assistance services for passengers with reduced mobility.
19. Are there currency exchange offices at the airport?
Yes. Currency exchange counters and ATMs are located throughout the terminals.
20. What airlines operate at Madrid Airport?
Madrid-Barajas is the main hub for Iberia and serves many international airlines connecting Europe, the Americas, Asia and Africa.