Information and Travel Guide for Madrid Barajas Airport
Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD)

Madrid-Barajas Airport is just one of the major entry points for tourists going to Spain. The site is situated within the city; about 9 kilometers from the financial district and about 13 kilometers to the northeast of Puerta del Sol, the historic center of Madrid. The airport has become a symbol of progress and modernity. There are attractive and innovative facilities. The airport is also equipped with state-of-the-art and latest technology to ensure that passengers enjoy greater mobility, speed, and efficiency. In 2010, it served more than 49.8 million passengers, making it one of the busiest air terminals in the world.

History

Madrid-Barajas Airport was built in 1927 and was opened to air traffic in 1931. It was in 1933 when commercial operations started in the terminal. It has undergone several expansion and improvement projects. Every decade, there is a significant addition to its infrastructure and facilities. All terminals and new runways were finally completed in 2004 and were fully operational by 2006.

Services and Amenities

Because it is huge, there is a very broad range of stores found in every terminal. A new shopping district serves as its showpiece in the newly constructed terminal T4. There are more than 30 cafes, bars, and restaurants operating in Madrid-Barajas Airport. There are ATMs in all terminals, as well as American Express money exchange offices and two banks in the premises of the airport.

Parking & Transportation

Terminals T1, T2, and T4 have parking garages although there is no free parking. The first 30 minutes is charged e0.60 and the next 30 minutes is charged e0.90. Every hour thereafter is charged e1.50. There are many options for travellers who prefer to take public transport. A direct subway train service connects T1, T2, and T3 to the financial district of the city. There is a bus line that also runs through those terminals. Taxis can be hired at Arrival Halls of T1 and T4.

Security

Standard airport security processes are carried out. Carrying prohibited objects and substances is strictly not allowed. In special instances, health authorities may also monitor body temperature of tourists entering the country especially when there are threats of viral epidemics in other countries. Every luggage is meticulously screened. There are stringent regulations on carry-on baggage.

Surrounding Places to Stay

Do not expect to find any hotels within the premises of the airport. Travellers can book accommodations at the nearest hotels: Tryp Alameda, Tryp Diana, and Hotel Melia Barajas. Hotel rates are typically costly but can still vary depending on the season. Online booking is recommended.

Travel Tips

Bring more than enough cash if you do not want to use the ATMs that may impose charges to international transactions. Going around the city can be quite costly. Hiring a taxi, for instance, is more expensive especially if you are coming from or going to the airport because there are airport surcharges and other added costs. The use of credit cards can be easily facilitated because almost all establishments honour major cards.


Contact Information:

Website: http://www.aena-aeropuertos.es/csee/Satellite/Aeropuerto-Madrid-Barajas/en/
Email: clientesmad@aena.es 
Phone: +34 913 936 000
Fax: 91 393 6204
Address: Madrid Barajas Airport, 28042 Madrid, Spain
Number of Terminals: 3
Time Zone: GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October)
 Location: The airport is located 13km (8 miles) northeast of Madrid
IATA airport code: MAD