- Must visit
Museo del Prado
World-class art museum with masterpieces by Velázquez, Goya, and Bosch; essential for Spanish and European painting.
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Journey information
Overview: Cardiff to Madrid flight
United Kingdom
Spain
Flights from Cardiff to Madrid depart on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 54m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $245 (€200) but you can travel from only $87 (€71) by bus.
The earliest flight runs at 05:55, the last at 20:50. The fastest flight covers the 764 miles (1231 km) distance in 3h 45m. December is the cheapest month to fly.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $87 (€71)
Distance 764 miles (1231 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $245 (€200) |
Flights per day 8 |
Fastest flight 3h 45m |
First flight 5:55 AM |
Last flight 8:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 21 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $87 (€71)
The cheapest and fastest flights from Cardiff to Madrid
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$349
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$371
Fastest journey on Sep 19
4 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
9 h 23 m
Flights on Sep 19
8
Distance
1231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Cardiff to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Madrid will cost around $371 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $349.
Fast flights
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Madrid without transferring at least once.
KL1088 · KL15019:45 AM22h45Cardiff Airport9:30 AMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer- KL1088 · KL15079:45 AM8h50Cardiff Airport7:35 PMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
- KL1092 · KL15095:35 PM4h50Cardiff Airport11:25 PMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
- KL1092 · KL15035:35 PM17h35Cardiff Airport12:10 PMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
- KL1092 · KL15015:35 PM14h55Cardiff Airport9:30 AMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
- KL1092 · KL15095:35 PM4h50Cardiff Airport11:25 PMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
- KL1088 · KL15059:45 AM5h40Cardiff Airport4:25 PMMadrid Barajas Airport$3821One-way1 transfer
- KL1088 · KL15079:45 AM8h50Cardiff Airport7:35 PMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
- KL1088 · KL15099:45 AM12h40Cardiff Airport11:25 PMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
- KL1092 · KL15015:35 PM14h55Cardiff Airport9:30 AMMadrid Barajas Airport$3491One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Cardiff to Madrid
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Madrid among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $207 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 54m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the bus is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 1.2 - 3.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $207, while a flight costs an average of $327.
Distance: 764 miles (1231 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$327 Average price | $207 Average price Cheapest | $143 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 54m Average total duration Fastest 3h 54m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 31h 54m Average total duration 31h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
3.7 - 7.4kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Madrid is a bus with an average price of $207 (€169).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Madrid:
A bus is $120 (€98) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cardiff to Madrid costing on average $327 (€267).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Madrid is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 54m.
Other travel options to Madrid take longer:
Bus takes on average 31h 24m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Madrid including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Madrid among Omio's users.
Live departures
Cardiff to Madrid flight times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Madrid flights for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:15 PM Cardiff | 15h15 | 7:30 AM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:15 PM Cardiff | 16h00 | 9:15 AM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| KL1088 · KL1501 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Airport | 22h45 | 9:30 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1088 · KL1507 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Airport | 8h50 | 7:35 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1088 · KL1505 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Airport | 5h40 | 4:25 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1088 · KL1509 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Airport | 12h40 | 11:25 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 1 transfer | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Madrid by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 25
Why should you book Cardiff to Madrid flights with Omio?
KLM operates all flights services from Cardiff to Madrid.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Madrid.
Why book with Omio vs KLM?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare KLM with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Madrid.
Why book with Omio over Edreams, Skyscanner or Kayak?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Madrid.
Airlines: KLM from Cardiff to MadridFind the best flights between Cardiff to Madrid with Omio's travel partners KLM from $87 (€71). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
KLM
About
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is the flag carrier of the Netherlands and the world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name. Based in Amsterdam Schiphol Airport, KLM connects travelers to destinations across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Its modern fleet offers comfort for every type of journey—from affordable Economy fares with in-flight entertainment and WiFi to Premium Comfort and Business Class with extra space, dining, and lounge access. With a reputation for excellent service and global connectivity, KLM is a trusted choice for international travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average KLM Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest KLM Price
$245 (€200)
KLM frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (max 55x35x25 cm) and 1 personal item (max 40x30x20 cm)
Additional luggage
Checked baggage can be purchased, max 23kg per piece
Cancellation Policy
For Light fares: no refund. For Standard/Flex fares: cancellation possible with fee, partial refund available
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly until 36th week (32nd for multiple pregnancies). Medical certificate required after 28th week
Unaccompagned minor
KLM accepts unaccompanied minors aged 5-17. Service must be booked in advance. Fee applies. Not available on codeshare flights
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
KLM provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance and special assistance during boarding and disembarking
Pets
Small pets in cabin (max 8kg including carrier), larger animals in hold
Entertaiment on board
Complete guide to Madrid
Things to do in Madrid
Discover the best of Madrid — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Madrid trip today.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía
Leading modern art museum best known for Picasso’s Guernica, plus major works by Dalí and Miró.
- Must visit
Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza
Celebrated collection of European masters from Van Eyck to Hopper in a refined palace setting.
- Must visit
El Retiro Park
Madrid’s most famous park offers gardens, a boating lake, monuments, and relaxed walks in the city center.
- Must visit
Gran Vía
Lively grand avenue known for architecture, shopping, theaters, and nonstop energy from day to night.
- Must visit
Paseo del Prado
Elegant boulevard linking major museums and landmarks, ideal for a classic central Madrid walk.
Cocido Madrileño
A hearty chickpea stew with meats, vegetables, and broth, especially traditional in Madrid and often served in stages.
Bocadillo de Calamares
Crisp fried squid rings served in a baguette roll. This iconic Madrid street food is especially linked to bars around Plaza Mayor.
- Gluten-free
Callos a la Madrileña
Tripe stew with chorizo and morcilla in a rich sauce. A classic old Madrid tavern dish with deep local roots.
DSTAgE
Refined two-Michelin-star dining focused on seasonal Spanish produce, with elegant modern cooking in a polished fine-dining room.
Malacatín
Traditional Madrid restaurant known for cocido madrileño served in stages, with an old-school dining room and loyal local following.
Sobrino de Botín
Historic century-old tavern famed for roast suckling pig and Castilian dishes in a classic, wood-lined setting near Plaza Mayor.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Western Europe: hotels vary, dining is reasonable, and public transport is good value for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-12 for fast food or a simple menú.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €1.80-3.50 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: round up or leave 5-10% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up. In cafés, small change is enough.
Tarjeta Transporte
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €1.50
- Day pass
- €8.40
To the city center
Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport -> Plaza de España
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 35 min
- Metro, buses, and Cercanías use a rechargeable transport card for most fares; contactless bank card payment is available on EMT Madrid city buses.
- The Airport Supplement applies on Metro to and from the airport. Cercanías train from Terminal 4 can also be a practical option to central Madrid.
FAQs: Cardiff to Madrid Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Madrid by flight. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Madrid, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Cardiff to Madrid can start from as little as $245 (€200) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Cardiff to Madrid is $327 (€267) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by plane from Cardiff to Madrid is 3h 45m to travel the 764 miles (1231 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from Cardiff to Madrid leaves at 5:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Cardiff to Madrid leaves at 8:50 PM.
There are 8 flights a day from Cardiff to Madrid which require at least one change with KLM. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
When taking a flight from Cardiff to Madrid, you can count on KLM for the best way to get you to Madrid. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Cardiff and Madrid and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Cardiff to Madrid generally leave from Cardiff Airport and arrive in Madrid Barajas Airport.Cardiff Airport is 0 miles (1 km) away from Cardiff city centre and Madrid Barajas Airport is 7 miles (12 km) from Madrid city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Cardiff to Madrid is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Madrid including taking a bus and flight.
Madrid is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
There is a time difference of 1 h between Cardiff and Madrid all year round.
The best events to attend in Madrid include:
- San Isidro Festival, a celebration honoring the patron saint of Madrid with parades and traditional music
- Madrid Pride, one of the largest LGBTQ+ pride events in Europe featuring a colorful parade
- La Paloma Festival, a local festival celebrating the Virgin of La Paloma with street parties and cultural activities
- Madrid Fashion Week, a showcase of the latest trends and designs from Spanish and international fashion designers.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Madrid are:
- Prado Museum, a renowned art museum housing European masterpieces from the 12th to the early 20th century
- Royal Palace of Madrid, the official residence of the Spanish royal family with opulent architecture and historical artifacts
- Retiro Park, a large and popular park in the city center featuring sculptures, a lake, and the Crystal Palace
- Plaza Mayor, a grand square surrounded by historic buildings and a hub for cultural events and markets
- Gran Vía, a bustling street known for its shopping, theaters, and vibrant nightlife.
The best holidays to experience in Madrid include:
- Epiphany, January, a traditional celebration with parades and the Three Kings' Day festivities
- Semana Santa, April, a significant religious observance with processions and cultural significance
- Assumption of Mary, August, a public holiday with various local celebrations and events
- National Day of Spain, October, commemorating the country's history with patriotic displays and activities.
The best things to do in Madrid include:
- Puerta del Sol, a bustling public square known for its iconic clock and vibrant atmosphere
- Mercado de San Miguel, a historic market offering a variety of gourmet foods and traditional Spanish delicacies
- Explore the vibrant nightlife in the Malasaña district, known for its eclectic bars and live music venues
- Attend a flamenco show to experience traditional Spanish dance and music
- Visit the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, home to Real Madrid, for a tour or to catch a football match.
The best season to visit Madrid is Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Madrid is during April-June or September-October.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Madrid among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
For international flights we recommend to arrive 2.5 to 3 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
Spain uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers can use both cash and cards, but cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, while cash may be preferred for small purchases, markets, and rural locations.
In Madrid, the main safety concerns for travelers include pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, and on public transportation. Common scams involve distraction techniques, such as someone asking for signatures on petitions or offering friendship bracelets, to steal valuables. Travelers should also be cautious of unlicensed taxi drivers and always use official transport services. Staying vigilant in busy tourist spots and keeping belongings secure helps minimize risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular airports
Popular airports from Cardiff to Madrid
Most Cardiff to Madrid flights use the Cardiff Airport to Madrid Barajas Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Madrid airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Cardiff
Arrival airports in Madrid
Which Cardiff airport do flights to Madrid leave from?
Flights from Cardiff to Madrid depart from Cardiff Airport. The airport is 1 miles (2 km) from Cardiff city centre at Rhoose, Cardiff CF62 3BD, United Kingdom.
Cardiff Airport (CWL)Rhoose, Cardiff CF62 3BD, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Airport from Cardiff city centre
Cardiff Airport is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus304 · 1h 20m · $5 · every ~4 min
Cardiff Airport airport facilities and services
Cardiff Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in the terminal building.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Airport: Assistance, toilets.
Which Madrid airport do flights from Cardiff arrive at?
Flights from Cardiff to Madrid arrive at Madrid Barajas Airport. Madrid Barajas Airport is 8 miles (13 km) from Madrid city centre.
Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD)Avda. de la Hispanidad, s/n, 28042 Madrid, Spain
City-centre transport
Getting to Madrid Barajas Airport from Madrid city centre
Madrid Barajas Airport is 12 km from Madrid city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainC1 · 15m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus203, N27 · 41m · $11 · every ~45 min
Madrid Barajas Airport airport facilities and services
Madrid Barajas Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in all terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madrid Barajas Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madrid Barajas Airport: Ramps, assistance.
Most popular flights from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Madrid and Cardiff
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