Cheap flights to Madrid

Flights, routes and travel tips



Book cheap flights with Ryanair and discover Madrid

From To Flight type Departure date Departure time Flight time Price Route availability
Bristol BRS Madrid MAD One way Mon 14 Sep Departure time: 08:20 Flight time: 2h 15m £16.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
Liverpool LPL Madrid MAD One way Wed 09 Sep Departure time: 19:45 Flight time: 2h 30m £16.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
London STN Madrid MAD One way Mon 14 Sep Departure time: 05:55 Flight time: 2h 25m £19.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
Edinburgh EDI Madrid MAD One way Tue 29 Sep Departure time: 06:10 Flight time: 2h 55m £20.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S
Birmingham BHX Madrid MAD One way Sat 31 Oct Departure time: 09:00 Flight time: 2h 25m £21.99 Route availability: M T W T F S S

What is the cheapest time of year to visit Madrid ?
Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are typically the most economical times to visit Madrid. Winter months offer milder pricing outside the peak tourism season, though temperatures can be cool with occasional frost. Summer (June-August) is the warmest season but also the most expensive and busiest tourist period, with intense heat during midday hours. The official Madrid tourism site notes that spring brings pleasant weather, longer daylight hours and natural blooms, while autumn features beautiful light and comfortable temperatures—both offering good value compared to summer peaks.
What are the most popular places to visit in Madrid ?
Madrid's top attractions include the Museo del Prado (one of Europe's finest art museums), the Royal Palace of Madrid (official residence of Spanish royalty), Parque del Retiro (major urban park with lake and gardens), the Puerta de Alcalá (iconic monument), Plaza Mayor (historic central square), Santiago Bernabéu stadium (Real Madrid football club), Gran Vía (famous avenue with shops and restaurants), and the museums of the "Golden Triangle of Art" (Prado, Reina Sofía with Picasso's Guernica, and Thyssen-Bornemisza). Neighbourhoods like La Latina, Malasaña, and Chueca offer traditional Spanish culture, tapas bars, and vibrant nightlife.
How do tourists get around in Madrid ?
Madrid offers extensive public transportation options. The Metro de Madrid is the fastest and most efficient way to reach any point in the city, with 12 lines covering the entire metropolitan area. The bus network (EMT) operates nearly 24 hours daily with 229 bus lines. Tourist passes (Abono Turístico de Transporte) allow unlimited use of all public transport for 1-7 days. Express buses connect the airport to the city centre (40 minutes, €5.10). Taxis are widely available with over 15,000 vehicles. BiciMAD provides bike-sharing with 683 stations. Cercanías trains connect Madrid to nearby towns like Alcalá de Henares and El Escorial. Walking is also excellent in central neighbourhoods.
What travel documents do I need to fly to Madrid ?
Travel document requirements for Spain depend on your nationality, residency status, and passport type. Most visitors require a valid passport; some nationalities may be eligible for visa-free entry under Schengen rules, while others need a visa obtained in advance. UK residents now require a valid British passport and may need to provide biometric data upon entry. Document requirements change regularly and vary significantly by country of origin. Check the latest official guidance before you travel.
Do I need a car when visiting Madrid ?
A car is not necessary for visiting Madrid. The city has comprehensive public transportation including metro, buses, and taxis that provide efficient access to all tourist areas. Renting a car may be impractical due to traffic congestion, complex parking regulations, and mandatory environmental badges (distinctive marks) required for vehicle access in low-emission zones. Walking is excellent in central neighbourhoods, and the integrated transport network with tourist passes makes car-free travel convenient and cost-effective. For excursions to surrounding areas (El Escorial, Alcalá de Henares, Aranjuez), Cercanías trains offer convenient alternatives.
How long does it take to get from the airport to the main tourist areas of Madrid ?
Transfer times from Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport to the city centre vary by transport mode. The Metro Line 8 subway takes approximately 21 minutes to reach central stations like Nuevos Ministerios (every 10 minutes, €1–2). Express buses take around 40 minutes to 55 minutes to reach central areas (every 5 minutes, €5.10–12). Cercanías trains take approximately 24–27 minutes depending on destination (€1–4). Taxis take approximately 18–19 minutes (€28–35) depending on traffic conditions. Actual journey times depend on the destination, traffic conditions, time of day, and transport option selected. Check official airport or local transport websites for current schedules and real-time updates.

Travel Tips

  • When is the best time to visit Madrid ?

    When is the best time to visit Madrid ?

    The best time to visit Madrid is in spring from April to June and in autumn from September to October, when temperatures are more comfortable for sightseeing. Summer can be very hot, while winter is cooler but often sunny.

  • What is Madrid  known for ?

    What is Madrid known for ?

    Madrid is known for grand boulevards, royal landmarks, major art museums, lively plazas, and late-night culture. It is especially famous for the Prado Museum, Retiro Park, tapas, and its energetic atmosphere.

  • What are the must-see places in Madrid ?

    What are the must-see places in Madrid ?

    Must-see places in Madrid include the Prado Museum, Royal Palace, Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Retiro Park, and Gran Vía. Many travellers also visit Reina Sofía, the Thyssen Museum, and local markets.

  • How many days do you need in Madrid ?

    How many days do you need in Madrid ?

    Most travellers need 3 to 4 days in Madrid to enjoy the city’s main attractions, museums, and food scene. A longer stay is ideal if you want day trips to nearby historic cities.

  • Is Madrid  expensive to visit ?

    Is Madrid expensive to visit ?

    Madrid is usually considered a mid-range European capital, with a wide choice of places to stay and eat. Costs can be higher in central tourist areas, but the city offers good value overall.

  • What is the weather like in Madrid ?

    What is the weather like in Madrid ?

    Madrid has hot, dry summers and cool winters, with lots of sunshine across the year. Spring and autumn are generally the most comfortable seasons for walking and outdoor sightseeing.

  • What are the top things to do in Madrid ?

    What are the top things to do in Madrid ?

    Top things to do in Madrid include visiting world-famous museums, exploring plazas and historic streets, relaxing in Retiro Park, enjoying tapas, shopping, and experiencing the city’s nightlife.

  • What food is the Madrid famous for ?

    What food is the Madrid famous for ?

    Madrid is famous for bocadillo de calamares, cocido madrileño, churros with chocolate, tapas, and roast meats. Markets and traditional taverns are a major part of the local food experience.


What you need to know when traveling with Ryanair

View all FAQs
Can I bring cabin baggage on a Ryanair flight?

Yes, Ryanair allows one small personal bag included with every fare. Larger cabin bags or priority boarding options can be added for an extra fee.

How do I check in for my Ryanair flight?

You can check in online via the Ryanair app or website. Online check-in typically opens 24 hours before departure, or earlier if you’ve purchased a seat.

Can I change my Ryanair flight after booking?

Yes, Ryanair allows flight changes, but fees may apply depending on the fare type and timing of the change.

What happens if my Ryanair flight is delayed or cancelled?

If your flight is disrupted, Ryanair may offer options such as rebooking, refunds, or assistance, depending on the circumstances and applicable regulations.

Can I book airport transfers or car hire with Ryanair?

Yes, when booking with Ryanair, you can add extras such as car hire and airport transfers through partner services like Carhire, making it easier to travel from the aiport to the city or surrounding areas.

What is Priority Boarding and how does it work with Ryanair?

Ryanair Priority Boarding lets you board using the Priority queue and bring two cabin bags on board: one small personal bag and one 10kg cabin bag, subject to availability and fees.


What are the most popular routes to Madrid?