We are flying into Madrid and flying out on the same day, different airline to San Sebastián. How much time should we allow to get through immigration, customs, baggage pick up and then recheck luggage to San Sebastián? Thank you.
Posted by
Atlanta, GA, USA
2791 posts
So I'm assuming this is two different tickets? In that case my rule is 4 hours and a backup plan.
Posted by
California 🦋
5294 posts
I agree with Carol's comment.
Will you have to change terminals?
Madrid-Barajas Airport is huge!
You may consider flying with carry-on only, if possible, to avoid delays in baggage claim.
Posted by
Chicago
8166 posts
Your flight to San Sebastian is leaving from Terminal 4.
You do not say what airline you are arriving on and what terminal you arriving in.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
While I rarely do it the same day, I will allow at least five hours. And last year was burned when the original US to London flight was canceled. First time that has happened in over 20 years but it does happen. Fortunately when re-booked the flight the airline agreed to fly me to my original end city so I didn't have to buy a second ticket but did lose the $200+ for the original on going flight. So consider your risks.
Posted by
OP
2 posts
Thank you all for great advice. We are flying from NYC to Madrid on Delta so I'm unsure of the arrival terminal. But it was my understanding that Madrid's airport is huge. Thanks again.
Posted by
Rick Steves' Europe
16895 posts
FYI, if it would work for you to fly to Bilbao instead of San Sebastian, then Delta has partners serving that connection.