LayoverMAD layover guide
Madrid-Barajas. City centre is roughly 25 minutes away each way.
What to do by layover length
Under 4 hours: stay in the airport
- Terminal 4 and 4S are linked by an underground train.
4 to 8 hours
A short city visit can work if your passport allows entry. Allow about 50 minutes round trip, plus immigration both ways and at least 2 hours before departure to get back through security.
8 hours or more: leave the airport
Metro Line 8 to Nuevos Ministerios, about 25 minutes; Cercanías trains run from Terminal 4.
Transit and visa basics
Leaving the airport means entering the Schengen Area. Some passports also need an airport transit visa. Official source. Also check your airline's connection rules and the official Madrid-Barajas website.
Lounges
Lounge access depends on your airline, ticket class, or a membership. Search Priority Pass lounges at MAD, or check lounge listings on the airport's website.
Get Priority Pass lounge accessAffiliate linkStore your bags
Heading into Madrid for a few hours? Drop your bags at a luggage storage spot.
Find luggage storage with Radical StorageAffiliate linkAirport transfer
Short on time? A pre-booked ride takes the guesswork out of getting to the city and back.
Book a transfer with KiwitaxiWelcome PickupsGetTransferAffiliate linkTours near Madrid
Long layover? Short tours that fit your time:
GetYourGuide tours in MadridViator tours in MadridAffiliate linkAirport hotels
Hotels near the airport can be compared below. For an overnight or a day room:
Hotels near MAD on Booking.comAffiliate linkDelayed or missed your connection?
Under EU and UK rules (EU261/UK261), delayed or cancelled flights can qualify for compensation.
Check your claim with AirHelpCompensairAffiliate linkStay connected
Airport Wi-Fi can be slow or time-limited. An eSIM gives you data the moment you land.
Get an eSIM from AiraloAffiliate linkLast checked: October 16, 2026. Times are typical and can change with traffic, construction and timetables. Confirm before you leave the airport. Some links are affiliate links; see our disclosure.