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How to Get from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station

Madrid Airport is approximately 16 km northeast of Atocha Train Station. You have five main transportation options from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station: taxi, private transfer, metro, train, and bus.

If you value speed and comfort, a Madrid Airport taxi or a pre-booked Madrid Airport transfer is the best option. They are both available 24/7 and provide convenient door-to-door services, allowing you to reach the train station quickly without any additional stops.

For budget travelers, using public transport is a great way to save money. Atocha Train Station is connected to Madrid Airport by metro, train, and an express bus, so you can choose your preferred transportation option based on your needs and budget.

Welcome Pickups offers meet and greet services and a friendly introduction to Madrid at the same price as a regular taxi. Click here to see the cost.

Comparison of the options

PRICE FOR 2PASSENGERS
OPTION PRICE DURATION AVAILABILITY
Taxi €33 20min 24/7
Metro €10 50min 06:05–01:33
Train €5.20 40min 05:55–00:05
Bus €10 40min 06:00–23:30
Welcome Airport Transfer €40 20min 24/7

How to get from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by taxi

Taking a Madrid Airport taxi to Atocha Train Station is one of the easiest ways to reach your destination directly. You can catch a taxi anytime during the day by heading to one of the official taxi ranks; you can easily spot official taxis by their white color and white stripe across the front doors.

If there’s a queue, you can order a ride over the phone or via a taxi-hailing app on your mobile.

How much is the taxi fare from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station?

The taxi fare from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station is fixed at €33 for up to 4 passengers. This fare applies 24 hours a day, every day of the year for services starting or ending at Madrid Airport and standing or ending inside the M-30 ring road around Madrid city center.

Note that an additional fee applies for ordering a taxi over the phone.

Cost

€33

Trip Duration

20 Min.

Waiting times at the taxi rank are usually longer during peak hours.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Taxis are available 24/7 at Madrid Airport.

Where do I take a taxi from?

There are official taxi ranks on the Ground Level (Arrivals) outside Terminals 1, 2, and 4. Simply follow the signs pointing towards taxis, and you should easily spot the nearest taxi rank. Radio taxi ranks are also available if you prefer to order a taxi over the phone.

Convenience

A taxi from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station is one of the most convenient ways to leave the airport. You’ll save yourself from the hassle and crowds of public transport and, instead, just walk up to the rank, hop in a taxi, and reach your destination directly. Something to keep in mind is that long queues during peak hours can slow you down if you’re in a hurry to catch a train at Atocha Train Station, in which case booking a private transfer is the fastest and most reliable solution.

Editor’s Note

Taxis are ideal for travelers looking for cheaper door-to-door transportation and don't mind waiting a bit at the taxi rank.

Useful Tips

Never accept rides from unlicensed drivers offering their services in the main terminal. Only take a taxi from the official taxi ranks.
Standard taxis in Madrid can fit up to 4 people with 3 pieces of luggage.
Not all taxis at Madrid Airport accept credit card payments. To avoid any issues, carry enough cash in the local currency (€), including small change.
Tipping isn't required or expected in Madrid, but you can include a small tip for great service.

How to get from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by metro

Traveling from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by metro is a good budget-friendly alternative if you prefer to use public transport. Although there is a metro line serving Madrid Airport, there is no direct connection to Atocha Train Station.

First, you will need to take Line 8 from Madrid Airport up to Nuevos Ministerios. There, you need to take Line 10 in the direction of Puerta del Sur up to Tribunal. Finally, you will need to take Line 1 in the direction of Valdecarros up to Atocha Train Station.

How much is the ticket for the metro from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station?

A single ticket for the metro from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station costs €5 per adult passenger. Children under 4 years old can travel on the metro free of charge.

If you plan to move around by metro during your trip, it’s worth purchasing a Tourist Pass, starting at €10 for 1 day up to €42 for 7 days.

You can purchase your ticket from the automatic ticket machines at the entrance of every metro station.

Cost

€5

Trip Duration

50 Min.

The average waiting time for Metro Line 8 is 4-8 minutes during peak hours.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Metro Line 8 operates from Madrid Airport from 06:05 to 01:33 daily.

Where do I take the metro from?

There are two metro stations at Madrid Airport; one serves Terminal 4 on Level 1 and the other serves Terminals 1, 2, and 3 and is located on Level 1 at Terminal 2. There are signs clearly guiding you to the metro station, so it should be easy to find.

There is a free shuttle bus circling all terminals that you can use.

Convenience

Although the metro is a cheaper alternative compared to taxis and private transfers, it’s not the most convenient choice. It’s actually the least convenient public transport option as it requires the most changes, three in total, to reach Atocha Train Station, increasing the travel duration.

Editor’s Note

The metro is best for solo travelers or small groups carrying light luggage.

Useful Tips

Keep an eye on your personal belongings at all times.
On business days, the metro can get very crowded during peak hours, so it's not recommended if you're carrying large pieces of luggage.
All metro lines are fully accessible to wheelchair users.

How to get from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by train

A great way to reach Atocha Train Station from Madrid Airport is to take the Renfe train departing directly from inside the passenger terminal. Line C1 will take you from Madrid Airport to Chamartin Train Station, where you can switch to any line (C2, C3, C3a, C4, C7, C8, C10) heading towards Atocha Train Station.

How much is the ticket for the train from Madrid Airport to the train station in Atocha?

A single ticket for the train from Madrid Airport to the train station in Atocha costs €2.60 per traveler. You can purchase tickets from the automatic ticket machines on the left-hand side at the train station at Madrid Airport or the ticket office on the Arrivals Level.

Children up to 6 years old travel free of charge on Renfe trains.

Cost

€2.60

Trip Duration

40 Min.

Trains depart from Madrid Airport every 15-20 minutes.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Trains operate between 05:55 to 00:05 from Madrid Airport.

Where do I take the train from?

The train station at Madrid Airport is on the Lower Level of Terminal 4. There are signs everywhere, so you shouldn’t miss it. If you arrive at Terminals 1, 2, or 3, you can take the free airport shuttle bus that runs 24/7; it departs from Terminal T1 Floor 1, Terminal T2 Floor 2 Departures, and Terminal T4 Floor 2 Departures.

Once you reach Madrid Chamartin Train Station, head to the platform in the direction of Madrid Atocha Train Station and take any train heading there.

Convenience

Even though there is no direct connection via train, it’s still the best value-for-money option. It’s the cheapest of all public transport options, and the travel duration is shorter than taking the metro. However, if you’re traveling with multiple pieces of luggage or young children, switching lines may be a bit of a challenge; taxis and private transfers are certainly more comfortable and seamless.

Editor’s Note

The train is the best value-for-money option for travelers on a tight budget.

Useful Tips

Tickets purchased at the airport must be used within 2 hours of the purchase time.
Luggage is included in the ticket price on both trains. Make sure to store it in the dedicated luggage compartment and keep an eye on your personal belongings.
Renfe trains are fully accessible to wheelchair users with a dedicated space for wheelchairs onboard.

How to get from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by bus

The last available option to travel from Madrid Airport to Madrid Atocha Train Station using public transport is to take the Airport Express Bus 203. It’s a direct route from Madrid Airport to the city center that operates daily and stops at Atocha Train Station. The line operates 24/7, but after 23:30 the last stop is at Cibeles, around 1.5 km north of Atocha Train Station.

How much is the ticket for the bus from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station?

A single ticket for the Express Bus from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station costs €5. You can purchase your ticket on the bus in cash or by contactless payment using your credit/debit card or mobile phone. Note that if you pay in cash, a €20 note is the maximum amount that the driver can break for change.

Cost

€5

Trip Duration

40 Min.

The average waiting time for Line 203 is 20 minutes.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Although bus Line 203 operates from Madrid Airport 24/7, it stops at Atocha Train Station only from 06:00 to 23:30.

Where do I take the bus from?

The Express Bus stops on the Arrivals Level outside Terminals 1, 2, and 4. Follow the signs inside each terminal, and you will easily locate the bus stop by the sidewalk.

Convenience

The bus from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station can be a great value-for-money option if you’re traveling on a budget. It’s an express route, meaning it can take you to the train station directly, saving you the trouble of changing lines, as in the case of taking the metro or train. However, if you’re arriving late at night, the bus isn’t available for the entire route, meaning you will need to walk or take a taxi to reach the train station.

Editor’s Note

The express bus is the most comfortable choice for budget travelers.

Useful Tips

Luggage is included in the ticket price.
The Express Bus is fully accessible to wheelchair users.

How to get from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station by private transfer

Pre-booking a Madrid Airport transfer from Madrid Airport to the train station in Atocha with Welcome Pickups is the most convenient way to get there quickly and comfortably. You can arrange everything in advance and ensure a seamless start to your trip with private and reliable transportation.

Through personalized services and perks like meet and greets, vetted drivers, flight monitoring, 24/7 customer support, and more, you can enjoy peace of mind and stress-free transportation.

What's the cost of a transfer from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station?

Welcome Pickups transfers from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station come with a fixed fare that you will know and pay in advance. After filling out the booking form with your drop-off location, the number of passengers, and luggage, you will get a final quote that includes all taxes and airport surcharges. That ensures a much smoother experience compared to taking a taxi from the rank and allows you to budget your trip beforehand.

That being said, a sedan transfer from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station costs €40 and can accommodate up to 4 passengers. If you’re in a larger group, you can book a minivan for €65 or a minibus for €120.

Cost

€40

Trip Duration

20 Min.

*Booking your private transfer in advance is the best way to ensure a seamless experience.

Convenience
Safety
Value for Money

Private transfers are available 24/7 from Madrid Airport.

Where do I get my transfer from?

Instead of joining the queue at the official taxi ranks, you can enjoy a personalized meet and greet inside the Arrivals Hall. Your driver will have your flight number and know which terminal to wait for you. After clearing baggage claim, head toward the exit, and you’ll see your driver in the public area, holding a sign with your name. Following a friendly introduction, your driver will help with your luggage and lead you to your pre-selected vehicle at the airport parking.

Convenience

A pre-booked transfer from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station is the best choice if you want to enjoy peace of mind in a private, modern vehicle. No matter when your flight lands at Madrid Airport, your professional driver will be waiting for you as soon as you land, saving you valuable time. That way, you can enjoy reliable door-to-door service at a competitive price and ensure you will reach the train station on time if you have a scheduled departure.

Editor’s Note

A private transfer is ideal for anyone wanting a direct and efficient ride, as well as those with lots of luggage.

Useful Tips

You can fit your own baby/child seat on all vehicles, or request one during the booking, and your driver will provide one for you.
You will receive an email with your driver's name, photo, and contact information before your transfer.
Your driver will monitor your flight and adjust the pickup time in case there is a delay, so you won't have to worry about missing your transfer.
You can contact your driver via WhatsApp or the Welcome Pickups app.

Welcome Pickups transfer

Welcome Pickups

Book a trained, English-speaking taxi driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular cab from the line

If you feel more relaxed knowing that somebody is waiting for you, you may as well book a Welcome Pickups transfer. As soon as you arrive at the airport you will be greeted by your driver. He will be waiting for you at the terminal of your arrival with a sign that has your name on it. Your driver will help you out with your luggage and together you will make your way to the vehicle. While he is driving you to your accommodation, the driver can give you some tips and recommendations on what to do during your holidays in Madrid. Our drivers are hand-picked and speak fluent English. No need to worry about miscommunication issues that you may face with the local taxi drivers regarding your destination. Relax and enjoy your ride.

Best drivers

Hand-picked english-speaking drivers

Flight monitoring

Drivers are always on time

Quality support

24/7 email & phone support

Cancel up to 24 hours before the pickup and get an 80% refund

Edit or cancel transfers

Read more

Prices

DAYTIME
€35
NIGHTTIME
€35
Same price as a regular taxi from the line

PRICES FOR

Sedan Car

4 pax, 4 pieces of luggage

Book Welcome Pickups transfer

Frequently asked questions

How much is a taxi from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station?

The taxi fare from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station is fixed at €33 for up to 4 passengers at any time during the day.

How do I get from Madrid-Barajas Airport to Atocha Station?

The best way from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station is by airport taxi or a pre-booked private transfer. If you prefer public transport, you can take the metro, the train, or the express airport bus.

How far is the Madrid Airport from Atocha Station?

The distance from Madrid Airport to Atocha Train Station is around 16 km southwest, and getting there takes 20 minutes in average traffic conditions.

What transportation options are available from the airport in Madrid to Atocha Train Station?

There are five transportation options available from the airport in Madrid to Atocha Train Station: an airport taxi, a private transfer, the metro, the train, and an express bus.

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