How to Use the Madrid Metro from MAD to the City Center.

MAD or Madrid-Barajas Adolfo Suárez Airport has a couple of train stations connected to it. This means navigating the Madrid metro is easy if it’s your first time here.

The Madrid metro system is so easy, it’s surprising. I landed in terminal 4, which is the international terminal. From here I immigrated and followed the signs to the people mover. 

The people mover is a small train within the airport that takes you from your terminal to the baggage claim area. I never check bags so I b-lined it towards the front.

Madrid metro system symbol. You'll see this sign everywhere... Follow the signs to the metro... From terminal 4, before you exit the airport, you go down a level. There's a ramp that takes you there.
Madrid metro system symbol. You’ll see this sign everywhere… Follow the signs to the metro… From terminal 4, before you exit the airport, you go down a level. There’s a ramp that takes you there.

You’ll see signs everywhere for their train system. If you’re in the other terminals, they have their own train station too. Terminals 1, 2, and 3 share a station. With terminal 4 as their last station, you can’t go the wrong way. It only goes one direction from here. The airport line is Line 8.

The machines are easy and intuitive. I should mention they’re in Spanish. It asks you if you want to buy a fare. You say “Si.” Then it asked you which line you’re getting off, and which station is your last. You choose your options and you pay accordingly. My stop is Nuñez de Balboa which is line 9 about 4 stops down. A ride into the city is 5 Euros. The total for my fare was 7.50 Euros. Be advised, you have to pay for the initial card. It’s 2.50 Euros.

I hoped on the train and transferred to line 9 after about 5 stops.

Depending on where you’re going, you can navigate the train system pretty easily.

The Other Terminals

If you’re coming from T1, T2 or T3 you’re probably going to have to follow the Metro signs differently. Follow the signs, take the electric walkways until you hit the end. The signs are pretty clear. Once you get your card and pay the fare, you’ll be able to get through the electric doors.

Madrid Metro Rates

The rate for the train is cheap. Starting at 1.50 and up for a couple of stops. It’s more the further you go. Although, if you’re transferring between trains and busses or even commuter trains, the fare will vary.

Here is a map for you to use:

Madrid metro map
Madrid metro map

The best thing about the Madrid metro system is how easy and intuitive it is to use. It also takes you all over the city. You’re going to ride the Madrid metro throughout your trip.

For more info check out their website: https://www.metromadrid.es/es/index.html

Let Me Break It Down For You:

Madrid Metro rail from the airport to the city will cost you a total of 7.50 Euros. The ride is 5 Euros but you have to buy the transit card for 2.50 Euros.

The line from the airport to the city is Line 8. From here you can transfer to other lines depending on where you’re headed to.

While in Madrid, make sure to taste their incredible food. Don’t forget to see the incredible and less popular Egyptian temple in the heart of the city.

Or, if you’re just staying for a nightly layover, check out this hotel, located within the airport district.

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