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Layovers can be either chaotic and stressful or a great excuse to explore somewhere new! If you’ve got a long layover in Madrid Airport (lucky you), you might just be in for one of the most delightful detours of your trip.

Now, you might be wondering, "Can I actually leave the airport during a layover in Madrid?" Or maybe: "Where the hell am I supposed to leave my luggage?" . This guide covers everything you need to know to turn your layover into a mini adventure, from getting into the city, to what to do with your luggage, to what’s actually worth seeing when you only have a few hours.

Can you leave Madrid Airport during a layover?

Yes, and you definitely should! If your layover is at least 7 hours long, you’ve got enough time to head into the city and enjoy a taste of Madrid.

A few things to keep in mind:

Aim to be back at the airport 2 hours before your flight (3 hours for international). Always double-check the recommended check-in time with your airline.
It takes around 30–40 minutes to reach the city center by metro, train, bus, or taxi.

First things first: what to do with luggage

To make the most of such a short time in Madrid, you really don’t want your luggage slowing you down. And while Madrid airport does have lockers, they’re not always convenient.

That’s where LUGGit comes in. A LUGGit Keeper will pick up your luggage right at the airport (or anywhere else), store it safely, and deliver it back to you whenever and wherever you want, whether it’s at your next terminal or your hotel (if you’re spending the night in Madrid).

Read some real reviews from LUGGit customers in Madrid:

“Great experience having them pick up our luggage and drop off at Madrid airport later in the evening. Timely and efficient. Good communication as well.”

- Soraya

“Excellent service. Made our last few hours in Madrid stress-free.”

- Jamillah

Use code BLOG10 for 10% off your LUGGit service in Madrid.

Visa requirements for a Madrid layover

Most travelers don’t need a visa to transit through Madrid. However, depending on your nationality, the duration of your layover, and whether you need to switch terminals, you may be required to pass through border control, in which case a Schengen visa could be necessary.

If you're from a country that normally requires a visa to enter the Schengen Area, and your connection involves entering Spanish territory (even just to change terminals), you may need a Schengen visa or an Airport Transit Visa (ATV). Check the latest information on visa requirements with the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation.

How to get from Madrid Airport to the city center

Madrid-Barajas (MAD) is well-connected, and you’ve got options depending on budget and time:

Metro Line 8: Connects directly to Nuevos Ministerios in 15 mins, then you can change lines. The entire trip takes ~40 mins and fares are 4.50-5€.
Airport Express Bus: Runs 24/7 to Atocha station or Plaza de Cibeles (at night). Flat fare of €5, takes about 30 to 40 mins.
Taxi: Flat rate of €30 to anywhere in central Madrid. Great if you're traveling in a group.

Check out our guide to getting from Madrid Airport to the city center for more details.

How long do you need to explore Madrid?

Here’s a quick guide:

4–6 hours: Stick to one neighborhood (Retiro or Sol) and enjoy a long lunch or a museum visit.
6–9 hours: You can hit the highlights: grab food, visit a museum, chill in a park, and maybe even do some shopping.
10+ hours: You basically get a bonus travel day! Time to walk, sip, snack, and maybe there’s even time to catch a flamenco show.

What to do during a layover in Madrid

Depending on how much time you’ve got and what kind of things you like to do, here are some recommendations on what to explore in Madrid.

For culture: visit one of the museums in the Golden Triangle

Nearest metro: Atocha

Madrid’s art scene is ridiculously good. The Madrid Golden Triangle of Arts consists of three world-renowned art museums conveniently located very close to each other along the Paseo del Prado.

Museo del Prado - If you only visit one museum, make it this one, which includes classic paintings from Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch. Recommended time: 2-3 hours.
Reina Sofía - A little south, you’ll find the Reina Sofía museum with the famous Guernica by Picasso. Recommended time: 2-3 hours.
Thyssen-Bornemisza - A bit less crowded and more varied. Recommended time: 2 hours.

For nature and relaxation: stroll through Retiro Park

Nearest metro: Retiro or Ibiza

Madrid’s Retiro Park is a popular place for tourists and locals alike, and it’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There you’ll find rowboats, rose gardens, ornate statues, and the famous Crystal Palace.

Grab a bocadillo (Spanish sandwich) in one of the park’s cafés and enjoy some downtime under the trees. If you’re travelling with kids, the park also has several playgrounds. Retiro Park is the ideal stop if you just want to stretch your legs, breathe some non-airport air, and maybe take an afternoon siesta!

For food: tapas, terrazas, and tinto de verano

Madrid knows how to eat and drink well. For food, we recommend you head to La Latina (more historical and traditional) or Malasaña (more alternative, with a great nightlife) neighborhoods and hop between tapas bars. Try jamón ibérico, croquetas, tortilla española, and if it’s hot, order a tinto de verano instead of sangria (locals love it, and it’s better!).

Check out this guide for the best tapas bars in Madrid for some recommendations.

For shopping: Gran Vía and Malasaña

Gran Vía is Madrid’s big shopping street, filled with mainstream stores (Zara, Mango, Uniqlo). It’s also where you’ll find some of Madrid’s most famous buildings. However, if big chain stores aren’t your thing, and you’re looking for something more local and indie, take a short walk to Malasaña. There you’ll find plenty of vintage shops, local markets, and bookstores. It’s perfect for finding something you didn’t know you needed and to get some souvenirs!

Got more time in Madrid? Check our Madrid Guide for even more recommendations on what to visit.

FAQs about layovers in Madrid

Can I leave the airport during a layover in Madrid?

Yes! If you have at least 6 hours and don’t need a visa, you’re good to go. Spain is in the Schengen Area, so check if you need a visa to enter.

Is there luggage storage at Madrid airport?

Yes, there is (by the Excess Baggage Company). However, if you want a more convenient option, LUGGit will pick up and deliver your bags anywhere you need.

How long before my next flight should I be back?

For domestic or EU flights, 2 hours is fine. For long-haul and outside the EU, aim for 2.5-3 hours just to be safe.

Do I pick up luggage during a layover?

It depends. If your flights are booked on the same ticket, your luggage is usually transferred automatically. But if you're flying on separate bookings or different airlines, you’ll likely need to collect and re-check your bags.

Where does LUGGit collect my luggage?

At busy locations like Madrid Airport, we have predefined meeting points in each terminal, so it's easy to find your Keeper. You'll also get clear instructions right after booking to make the handoff stress-free.

Don’t waste your layover carrying luggage

Madrid deserves more than spending your time there in the airport. If you’re landing in this city (even just for a few hours) make the most of it. Drop your bags with LUGGit and enjoy Madrid luggage-free.

Use code BLOG10 for 10% off your LUGGit service in Madrid.