We will have a near-8 hour layover in Madrid this May, before our ongoing flight to Seville...and would love to go into the city to spend a couple of hours at the Prado. We've been to the Prado before, and know it's close to the Atocha train station, and also know to allow time for going through security, etc. on our way back into the airport. Ideally we could check our bags in for our second flight (on Iberia) or if that's not possible, stash them in a locker at the airport. We would also prebook Prado tickets online to save time.
The last time we went to Madrid we took the airport bus into town, but now I see that there is a metro as well as a train into Atocha. How long do the metro or train take and is one faster and/or easier than the other?
My question: has anyone done this and what was the best way to go about it? Are we cutting it too close? If all goes well, we arrive in Madrid at 10 am and depart at 5:50 pm. Any and all advice welcomed!
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
The airport bus would most likely be the best choice. There is a stop at Cibeles going and coming. You will need to be sure of the exact location as they are not that well marked. However, even with that you will still have a long block or so to walk. The bus runs all day and the fee is 5.50 euros as I recall. However, you will be cutting it very close time wise when you consider getting out of the airport and back into the airport as well. From the airport to Atocha the bus ride is approximately 30 minute or so. The train will most likely involve a long hike in the airport, escalators, or elevators and then the train ride. It will take longer than the bus.
Posted by
OP
Issaquah,WA
82 posts
HJ, do you think we'd be safer just taking a cab to and from the Prado? It's more expensive than the other options but the most direct- and we aren't likely to be back in Madrid any time soon, so IMO I
it's worth it to spend a little more to have a special experience (both my husband and I loved the Prado when we were there about 4 years ago and have always talked about returning).
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
I agree with HJ that the airport bus is the way to go. Once it leaves the airport, Cibeles is the first stop - about 20-25 minutes. A taxi will take longer and cost about 6x as much, and it's no more direct than the bus, except that it would drop you at the door instead of having to walk a block. Cibeles is closer to the Prado than Atocha is. Assuming you would be out of the airport and into town by 11:30, you should have time for a nice 3 hour visit before heading back.
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
I would choose the bus over the taxi to get to the Prado....but know that the drop off location heading to Atocha is NOT the same as the pick up location heading back to the airport The pick up location is on the other side of the street, near a corner as I recall. Perhaps you can locate it on the web site...if not, then a taxi back to the airport.
Posted by
OP
Issaquah,WA
82 posts
You both have been really great in helping me sort out how to think about this quick trip into the Prado and back! I am noting your suggestions regarding the bus and where to get off (and back on) and fingers crossed, will be able to make this happen when we land in May. Muchas gracias!
Posted by
Bloomington, IL, USA
9371 posts
The Cibeles stop headed for the airport is between the maritime museum and the Cibeles building (which is on a circle). It is marked with a yellow sign. When you come out of the Prado, you just walk straight up the street, and the stop is just at the circle.