Getting from Madrid airport (Barajas) by metro

There are basically two ways to get from the airport to downtown Madrid, by metro or taxi.

If you are a very comfortable person who can’t make the 100 meters from the exit of the airport to the metro system I recommend a taxi – it will set you back about 30 euro (50 USD) and take from 25 to 60 minutes depending on the traffic.

You have all reasons to take the metro from Barajas, it’s cheaper, faster and more fun. The metro is safe, clean and new. It runs every two minutes from early morning (6 o’clock until midnight).

The Pink Line (number 8) – Heading to Nuevos Ministerios

There is only one metro line going to and from the airport, it is the Pink line (number 8). It makes a few stops during its 20 min ride to final station Nuevos Ministerios – most passengers get off there as it’s well connected.

An Airport Metro Ticket Cost 2 Euro – One Way

A metro ticket from Madrid airport to downtown cost 2 euro – just about all other metro rides cost just 1 euro but you will need an additional ticket as the airport is located rather far from the city.

I recommend you to purchase your ticket from one of the machines available on the station; you can pay with credit card, notes and coins.

All newer metro stations have lifts available, all stops on the Pink airport line have lifts installed making it easy for you to get on and off the train with your luggage/suitcases. Not all of the older stations have lifts installed, but you’ll probably find a friendly local to help you should it be required – you’ll get a long way with a smile and ‘por favor’. 

Finally, download an updated Madrid Metro Map: http://www.metromadrid.es/export/sites/metro/comun/documentos/planos/Planoing2011-04.pdf

- if the link doesn't work it might be because of newer version available, thus visit: http://www.metromadrid.es/en/viaja_en_metro/red_de_metro/planos/index.html