Booking Flights to Madrid
Booking a flight to Madrid seems simple: a few clicks and you’re done. However, there are several choices that can have a big impact on the price, convenience and ultimately your entire trip. Which airport should you fly from? Which airline should you choose? Having travelled to Madrid dozens of times, I’ve learned what to look out for when planning your trip as affordably and comfortably as possible.
Before booking a flight, there is one important thing to keep in mind. The final match date and kick-off time are often only confirmed by La Liga a few weeks in advance. Real Madrid usually play on Saturday or Sunday, but every season there are also a few matches scheduled on Friday or Monday. Whenever possible, try to book a flight and hotel with enough flexibility.
Which Airports Fly to Madrid?
Madrid-Barajas Airport is extremely well connected, with daily direct flights operating from nearly every major hub and regional airport across Europe and beyond. Depending on where you are traveling from, you can usually choose between full-service carriers and budget airlines for a direct route to the city.
To find the best routes and prices for your matchday trip, I recommend comparing all available options on Trip.com. It allows you to easily cross-check schedules and fares across different airlines and departure airports to find the best deal for your schedule.
Hand Luggage Tips
One small detail that can make a big difference in the total cost of your trip is hand luggage. Many traditional airlines include a cabin bag in their standard fare, whereas budget carriers often charge extra for even small overhead luggage. When comparing ticket prices, always check what luggage is included—a slightly more expensive ticket with included baggage can easily end up cheaper than a low-cost option with added baggage fees.
If you are traveling to Madrid for just a weekend match, I recommend traveling with a single compact backpack. I always use a travel bag that fits within the hand luggage dimensions of almost every airline. This not only avoids extra baggage costs, but also allows you to walk straight out of the airport without waiting at the baggage carousel.
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