• 09/03/2024
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How to get from Madrid Atocha to the airport

How to get from Atocha to Barajas airport: transfer options

Transport options from Atocha to the airport

To travel from Atocha train station to Madrid-Barajas Airport, there are several alternatives. Each option has different characteristics in terms of fares, travel time and comfort. The main options available are detailed below.

Booking of pick-up service at Atocha

Booking a pick-up service from Atocha station in advance is the most recommended option, as it ensures a hassle-free transfer. By opting for this alternative, you will be met by a driver who will meet you on arrival and take you directly to the airport. To guarantee an efficient and smooth service, it is essential to make your reservation well in advance, providing all the details of your trip.

Taxi from Atocha to the airport

If you are looking for a quick and reliable option, taking a taxi from Atocha to the airport is an excellent alternative. To guarantee the availability of the vehicle on the desired date and time, it is advisable to make a reservation in advance. The cost of this service varies according to the number of passengers and the type of vehicle selected (taxi, minivan).


It is important to consider that the duration of the trip may be affected by traffic, so we suggest leaving well in advance to avoid delays. Also, make sure your luggage is suitable for the vehicle booked, as space in the taxi may be limited, even in 5, 6, 7 and 8-seater minivans.


Both booking a pick-up service and the option of using taxis from Atocha station to Madrid airport will offer you the comfort and peace of mind you need for a smooth transfer. Evaluate which of these alternatives best suits your needs and preferences, considering the time available and your budget.

Rent a car with driver from Atocha to Barajas airport

Choosing to hire a chauffeur-driven vehicle from Atocha Station to Barajas Airport is a highly recommended and safe option. Our professional drivers guarantee a smooth journey, providing comfort and punctuality at all times. Enjoy a smooth and efficient journey in a high quality vehicle, optimising your time and ensuring maximum comfort. Simplify your transfer and experience an exceptional transport service by hiring a car with driver from Atocha to Madrid airport. Your trip deserves the best.

How much does it cost to get from Atocha to the airport?

If you're organising your transfer from Sants station to Barcelona airport, you'll probably be interested in transport costs. Here we provide details of taxi fares and public transport options, so you can select the alternative that best suits your budget.

Taxi fares from Atocha to the airport.

Opting for a taxi from Atocha station to the airport can be a quick and comfortable choice, but it is essential to be informed about the prices before starting the journey. On average, the cost of a private taxi from Atocha to Barajas airport starts at €45. However, it is important to consider that this price can fluctuate depending on the number of passengers or the type of vehicle selected.

Suburban train: Line C-1 and C-10

Journey times and frequencies

The Suburban (cercanías) train is one of the most popular options for getting to the airport. Line C-1 directly connects Atocha with Terminal 4 (T4) in a journey that takes between 25 and 30 minutes. Line C-10 also arrives at T4, but its route is more indirect, which means that the journey time may be longer, depending on the origin and intermediate stops. These trains tend to run approximately every 30 minutes, which allows for good planning of departure times.

Fares and tickets

The price of the Cercanías train journey is approximately 2.60 €. If the journey includes the use of a long-distance train ticket that you have already purchased, you can take advantage of the QR code for free access to the C-1 line. This can result in significant savings for those who combine their train journeys.

Arrival at Terminal 4

Arrival at Terminal 4 is simple and direct. This terminal at Madrid-Barajas Airport is the largest and most modern, offering a variety of services to passengers. When disembarking from the train, travellers will find clear signage that will allow them to quickly reach the check-in, security and boarding areas.

Madrid Metro

Detailed itinerary

Using the metro is another option, although it requires several transfers. From Atocha, take line 1 towards Cuatro Caminos and then change at Tribunal station to line 10. The journey continues to Nuevos Ministerios, where you finally change to line 8 which takes you directly to Terminal 4. This route can be more complicated, especially if you are travelling with luggage.

Tariffs and supplements

The cost of the metro journey is €1.50 for a single ticket. However, there is an additional supplement of €3 if travelling to the airport, resulting in a total cost of €4.50. For those with a travel pass, this supplement is not necessary, which is a significant saving if you make frequent journeys.

Key metro stations

The most relevant metro stations on this route are Atocha, Tribunal and Nuevos Ministerios. Each of them is well connected to other lines, which can facilitate access for those coming from different parts of the city. It is important to be aware of the stations where transfers will take place to avoid confusion.

Buses (coaches)

Aerobus express bus

The Aerobus is an alternative that operates 24 hours a day, offering a direct service from Atocha to the airport. This bus is especially useful for those who need to travel at less conventional times. The route generally has several stops, including Atocha, Cibeles, and airport terminals T1, T2 and T4.

Timetables and journey times

Journey time on the Aerobus is approximately 40 minutes, although this may vary depending on traffic. Bus frequency is quite good, with departures every 15-20 minutes during the day. This option is recommended for those looking for a direct route without the need for transfers.

Ticket price

Aerobus tickets cost €5 and can be purchased when boarding the bus. This service is reliable and offers the possibility to pay in cash or by card, which adds flexibility to the purchasing process.


At Zonetransfers we offer minibus and coach services with private driver in Madrid for your group or family, where you choose the date and time for your transfer.

How to get to the different terminals at Madrid airport

To facilitate access to the different terminals at Madrid-Barajas Airport, it is important to know the transport options available and the journey times. Below you will find details of how to get to each terminal.

Terminal 1

Transport options

Terminal 1 connects to several transport options that allow fast and functional access. The most prominent of these are:

• Private taxi: Private transfers offer a direct service to Terminal 1 at a fixed rate from the city centre.
• Local Train: You can take the C-1 line to Airport T4 station, and then a shuttle service to Terminal 1.
• Metro: Metro line 8 leads directly to the airport. To get to Terminal 1, transfer at Nuevos Ministerios station.
• Bus: The Aerobus stops at Terminal 1, making it easy to get from the centre of Madrid.

Duration and fees

• Suburban train: Approximately 30 minutes at a cost of €2.60.
• Metro: Around 50 minutes in total, at a cost of €4.50.
• Bus: It takes about 40 minutes and the ticket costs €5.
• Taxi: Between 20 and 30 minutes, with a fixed fare of €30 from the centre.

Terminal 2

Transport options

• Commuter Train: Similar to Terminal 1, you need to take a shuttle from T4 to T2.
• Metro: Metro line 8 offers a direct connection. You can get there by taking line 8 from Nuevos Ministerios.ç
• Bus: The Aerobus stops at Terminal 2, offering quick and convenient access.
• Taxi: Taxi service available directly to Terminal 2.

Duration and fees

The route to Terminal 2 has the following characteristics:

• Suburban train: Estimated time 30 minutes and the ticket costs €2.60.
• Metro: Approximately 50 minutes in total, with a cost of 4.50 €.
• Bus: The journey takes around 40 minutes and the fare is fixed at €5.
• Taxi: The journey can vary between 20 and 30 minutes, with a fare of €30.

Terminal 3

Suburban train

• Suburban from Atocha: Go to the Cercanías train station at Atocha.
• Line C-1 or C-10: Take the Cercanías Renfe line C-1 or C-10 towards ‘Aeropuerto T4’.
• Arrival at T4: The train will take you directly to Terminal 4 (T4) of the airport.
• Transfer to T3: From T4, follow the signs to the free shuttle bus service that connects all terminals. This bus will take you to Terminal 3.

Terminal 4

Transport options

To get to Terminal 4, travellers can choose from the following alternatives:

• Suburban train: The C-1 line leads directly to T4, making it one of the best options for access.
• Metro: You can take line 8, which connects to Terminal 4 without the need for transfers.
• Bus: Bus services operate between the city centre and T4.
• Taxi: Available for a direct transfer to Terminal 4.

Duration and fees

The times and costs for access to Terminal 4 are as follows:

• Suburban train: Approximately 25-30 minutes at a cost of €2,60.
• Metro: Approximately 30 minutes and costs €4,50.
• Bus: A journey takes about 40 minutes and costs €5.
• Taxi: Around 20-30 minutes, with a fixed fare of €30.

Practical travel tips

Proper planning of time and transport is essential for a smooth transfer. Below are some recommendations that will facilitate the experience when travelling from Atocha to the airport.

Time planning

It is advisable to take schedules into account and allow adequate time to avoid setbacks.

Arrive at the airport early

For domestic flights, it is advisable to arrive at the airport at least 1 hour before departure. For international flights, it is advisable to arrive 2-3 hours before departure. This allows the entire check-in and security check process to be completed without rushing.

Service frequencies

The means of transport do not always have the same frequency, especially during the night or on public holidays. It is therefore important to check train, metro and bus timetables before departure, ensuring that you will have enough time to reach your desired terminal.

Luggage and transport

The type of transport chosen may influence the comfort of the journey, especially depending on the volume and weight of the luggage.

Types of transport according to the volume of baggage

• The suburban train and metro are economical options; however, they can be less convenient if you are carrying a lot of luggage.
• Taxis are ideal if you are carrying a large amount of luggage, as they avoid the need for transfers.
• Private transfer services allow for greater flexibility and convenience when transporting bulky luggage, as you can choose vehicles tailored to your needs.

Additional services for luggage.

Some transport services offer additional baggage handling assistance. It is advisable to check whether your chosen carrier provides these facilities, especially if you are travelling with special or fragile luggage.

Purchase of tickets

Purchasing tickets in advance can be beneficial to avoid travel mishaps. The options for purchasing tickets vary depending on the mode of transport selected.

Train and metro tickets

Tickets for Cercanías trains can be purchased at ticket offices or vending machines. It is useful to buy your tickets in advance, especially if you are travelling at peak times. On the metro, you can get single tickets or travel passes, which are very practical for those who plan to make multiple journeys.

Bus and taxi tickets

Bus tickets are purchased directly when boarding the bus. For taxis, it is best to book a private taxi in advance. On Zonetransfers you can book it in just a few clicks.



For price and quotation, please contact: info@zonetransfers.com