terminal 4 to terminal 45 in madrid how long

Lussy04

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22-01-2025

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How Long Does it Take to Travel Between Terminal 4 and Terminal 45 in Madrid?

Traveling between terminals at a large airport like Madrid-Barajas Airport (MAD) can sometimes feel like a journey in itself. If you're flying into Terminal 4 and need to get to Terminal 4S (often mistakenly referred to as Terminal 45), understanding the travel time is crucial for planning your connections. This article will break down the various ways to get between these terminals and estimate the travel time.

Understanding Madrid-Barajas Airport Terminals:

Madrid-Barajas Airport has several terminals. While there isn't a Terminal 45, Terminal 4S is often referred to as such. It's important to clarify this distinction to avoid confusion. Terminal 4 and Terminal 4S are connected, but not directly within walking distance.

Methods of Travel and Estimated Times:

The primary methods for traveling between Terminal 4 and Terminal 4S are:

1. Free Airport Shuttle Bus:

• Travel Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes. This can vary depending on traffic and the number of stops.
• Description: A free shuttle bus service operates continuously between the terminals. Look for clearly marked bus stops. These buses are frequent and usually quite efficient.
• Best For: Passengers with ample time and who prefer a no-cost option.

2. Walking (Not Recommended):

• Travel Time: This is not a practical option. The distance is significant and would take upwards of 30-45 minutes of brisk walking, plus navigating the airport layout. Consider this only if you have an extremely long layover and are comfortable with a very long walk.

3. Taxi or Rideshare:

• Travel Time: Approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic.
• Description: Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available outside both terminals. This is the fastest option but comes with a cost.
• Best For: Passengers with limited time or who prioritize speed and convenience, even at a price.

Factors Affecting Travel Time:

Several factors can influence your travel time:

• Time of Day: Rush hour or peak travel times will likely increase the travel time, particularly for the shuttle bus and taxi/rideshare options.
• Baggage: If you have a lot of luggage, transferring between terminals will take longer.
• Airport Congestion: Unexpected delays or congestion can impact all modes of transport.

Planning Your Transfer:

To ensure a smooth transfer, it's essential to:

• Check your flight details: Confirm your arrival and departure terminals to avoid any last-minute surprises.
• Allow ample time: Always allocate more time than you think you'll need, especially if you're transferring with checked baggage. Consider at least 1 hour, and possibly more depending on your connecting time.
• Locate the shuttle bus stops or taxi rank: Familiarize yourself with the location of these services to avoid any unnecessary delays.
• Consider your baggage: Account for extra time if dealing with many bags.

In Conclusion:

While there's no single definitive answer to "how long," realistically expect a transfer between Madrid-Barajas Airport's Terminal 4 and Terminal 4S (often called Terminal 45) to take anywhere from 10 to 15 minutes using the free shuttle bus or 5 to 10 minutes using a taxi or ride-sharing service. Always allow ample time to avoid missing your connecting flight. Plan your transfer carefully, and you'll have a stress-free experience navigating this large airport.