Train (Cercanías) at Madrid Airport
The Cercanías commuter train is one of the fastest and most economical ways to travel between Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) and central Madrid. The train station is located directly inside Terminal 4 and connects the airport with major railway hubs such as Atocha, Chamartín, Nuevos Ministerios and Príncipe Pío.
This service is operated by Renfe Cercanías and is especially convenient for passengers who need to connect with Spain’s long-distance high-speed trains (AVE) at Atocha or Chamartín stations.
If you arrive at Terminals 1, 2 or 3, you can use the free airport shuttle bus to reach Terminal 4 and access the train station.
Cercanías Train Lines Serving the Airport
The airport is connected to the Madrid commuter rail network through two lines:
- C1 Line: Príncipe Pío – Atocha – Chamartín – Airport T4
- C10 Line: Villalba – Príncipe Pío – Atocha – Chamartín – Airport T4
Both lines follow the same route within central Madrid and provide quick connections to the main railway stations of the city. These trains operate daily from approximately 06:00 until midnight.
If you need to take a high-speed train (AVE) to another city such as Barcelona, Valencia or Seville, the easiest connection from the airport is usually the Cercanías train to Atocha station.
Location of the Train Station
The Madrid Airport train station is located beneath Terminal 4. Passengers arriving at other terminals can reach it using the free airport shuttle bus that connects all terminals.
- Terminal 4: direct access to Cercanías station
- Terminals 1, 2, 3: shuttle bus connection to Terminal 4
The train station at Terminal 4 is clearly signposted as "Renfe Cercanías". Simply follow the train symbols after leaving the arrivals area.
Ticket Prices
Train tickets are relatively inexpensive compared with other transport options.
- Single ticket: around €2.60
- Return ticket: around €5.20
Tickets can be purchased from ticket machines at the station or using contactless payment at the gates.
If you are connecting to a long-distance train with Renfe, the airport train ride may be included in your ticket.
Typical Train Travel Times from Madrid Airport
For example, the journey between Madrid Airport Terminal 4 and Chamartín station takes around 15 minutes and trains usually run every 20 minutes.
Advantages of Using the Train
- Fast connection to the main railway stations in Madrid
- Very affordable compared with taxis
- Direct connection with high-speed trains (AVE)
- Comfortable travel with luggage space
The train is often the best option if your final destination is another Spanish city, since you can easily transfer to high-speed trains at Atocha or Chamartín.