- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Journey information
Overview: Madrid to Cardiff flight
Spain
United Kingdom
Flights from Madrid to Cardiff depart on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 48m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) if you book in advance.
The earliest flight runs at 06:00, the last at 20:35. The fastest flight covers the 764 miles (1231 km) distance in 3h 40m. 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
Distance 764 miles (1231 km) |
Average flight duration 3h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Flights per day 9 |
Fastest flight 3h 40m |
First flight 6:00 AM |
Last flight 8:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
The cheapest and fastest flights from Madrid to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 16
Cheapest price on Sep 16
$244
Average ticket price on Sep 16
$321
Fastest journey on Sep 16
4 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 16
16 h 3 m
Flights on Sep 16
4
Distance
1231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from Madrid to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madrid to Cardiff will cost around $321 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $244.
Fast flights
On Wed, Sep 16, we found 4 flights from Madrid to Cardiff, including 4 direct services.
On Wed, Sep 16 the direct flights cover the 1231 km distance in an average of 16 h 3 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 50 m .
On Wed, Sep 16 the longest flights will take 23 h 50 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:25 AM23h50Madrid8:15 AMCardiff$2441One-way0 transfers- 6:30 PM13h45Madrid8:15 AMCardiff$2721One-way0 transfers
- 12:05 PM21h45Madrid9:50 AMCardiff$3531One-way0 transfers
- 5:00 AM4h50Madrid9:50 AMCardiff$4171One-way0 transfers
- 5:00 AM4h50Madrid9:50 AMCardiff$4171One-way0 transfers
- 6:30 PM13h45Madrid8:15 AMCardiff$2721One-way0 transfers
- 12:05 PM21h45Madrid9:50 AMCardiff$3531One-way0 transfers
- 8:25 AM23h50Madrid8:15 AMCardiff$2441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Madrid to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Madrid to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $202 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 5h 48m. 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 $202, while a flight costs an average of $428.
Distance: 764 miles (1231 km)
Compare flight with
Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$428 Average price | $202 Average price Cheapest | $81 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 48m Average total duration Fastest 3h 48m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 32h 37m Average total duration 32h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 26m 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 Madrid to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $202 (€164).
This is compared to other travel options from Madrid to Cardiff:
A bus is $226 (€184) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Madrid to Cardiff costing on average $428 (€348).
The fastest way to travel from Madrid to Cardiff is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 48m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 32h 7m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and Cardiff including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Live departures
Madrid to Cardiff flight times
The table below shows live departures for Madrid to Cardiff flights for today, Tuesday, September 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| KL1502 · KL1087 | 10:25 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 23h50 | 9:15 AM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1502 · KL1091 | 10:25 AM Madrid Barajas Airport | 7h20 | 4:45 PM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
 FR 11 · FR 634 | 12:20 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 11h30 | 10:50 PM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1504 · KL1087 | 1:05 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 21h10 | 9:15 AM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1504 · KL1091 | 1:05 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 4h40 | 4:45 PM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1506 · KL1091 | 5:20 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 24h25 | 4:45 PM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1506 · KL1087 | 5:20 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 16h55 | 9:15 AM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1508 · KL1087 | 8:30 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 13h45 | 9:15 AM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| KL1508 · KL1091 | 8:30 PM Madrid Barajas Airport | 21h15 | 4:45 PM Cardiff Airport | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, September 16 | |||||
| 5:00 AM Madrid | 4h50 | 9:50 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Madrid to Cardiff 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.
Wed
Sep 16
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Why should you book Madrid to Cardiff flights with Omio?
Ryanair as well as KLM offer flights services from Madrid to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madrid to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Ryanair?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Ryanair, but also compare tickets for the likes of KLM to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Cardiff.
- 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 Ryanair with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madrid to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Edreams, Kayak or Skyscanner?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of KLM to find the best option for your trip from Madrid to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Madrid to Cardiff.
Airlines: KLM, Ryanair from Madrid to CardiffFind the best flights between Madrid to Cardiff with Omio's travel partners KLM, Ryanair from $85 (€69). 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
$226 (€184)
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
Ryanair
About
Ryanair is one of Europe’s largest and most popular low-cost airlines, headquartered in Ireland. It offers affordable flights to destinations across the continent, often operating to smaller or secondary airports outside major cities to keep fares low. All Ryanair tickets include an allowance for one small personal bag, with additional fees for cabin baggage and checked luggage. Known for its extensive network and budget-friendly fares, Ryanair makes it easy to travel quickly and affordably to popular European destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Ryanair Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Ryanair Price
$21 (€17)
Ryanair frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One small personal bag (40x20x25cm)
Additional luggage
10kg bag (55x40x20cm) or 20kg checked bag available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Non-refundable tickets. Flight changes possible with fee plus fare difference. Free changes within 24h of booking
Pregnant on board
Up to 28th week of pregnancy can fly freely. Between 28-36 weeks, medical certificate required. Not allowed after 36 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for ages 5-12, €60 per flight. Must be booked at least 7 days before departure
Amenities on board the airplane
Accessibility
Ryanair provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, must be booked at least 48 hours before flight
Complete guide to Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.60
To the city center
Rhoose Cardiff International Airport Station -> Cardiff Central Station
- Distance
- 19 km
- Travel time
- 35 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card payment on buses. Ask the driver for the cheapest suitable fare if unsure.
- For Cardiff Airport, use the shuttle bus to Rhoose station, then take a Transport for Wales train to Cardiff Central.
FAQs: Madrid to Cardiff Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madrid to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap plane tickets from Madrid to Cardiff can start from as little as $21 (€17) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for Madrid to Cardiff is $428 (€348) ; 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 Madrid to Cardiff is 3h 40m 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 Madrid to Cardiff leaves at 6:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from Madrid to Cardiff leaves at 8:35 PM.
There are 9 flights a day from Madrid to Cardiff which require at least one change with Ryanair, KLM. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
When taking a flight from Madrid to Cardiff, you can count on Ryanair, KLM for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between Madrid and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from Madrid to Cardiff generally leave from Madrid Barajas Airport and arrive in Cardiff Airport.Madrid Barajas Airport is 7 miles (12 km) away from Madrid city centre and Cardiff Airport is 0 miles (1 km) from Cardiff city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from Madrid to Cardiff is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madrid and Cardiff including taking a bus and flight.
Cardiff is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Madrid will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their 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 Madrid and Cardiff all year round.
The best events to attend in Cardiff include:
- Cardiff International Food and Drink Festival, a celebration of local and international cuisine with stalls, tastings, and live cooking demonstrations
- Cardiff Festival of Ideas, a week-long event featuring talks, workshops, and discussions on various topics
- Cardiff Christmas Market, a festive market showcasing handmade crafts, food stalls, and seasonal entertainment
- The Great Welsh Beer & Cider Festival, an annual gathering of breweries and cider makers offering tastings and live music.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cardiff are:
- Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress with Roman and Norman roots offering guided tours and events
- St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life and culture through reconstructed buildings and exhibits
- Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions
- National Museum Cardiff, featuring art, archaeology, and natural history collections
- Bute Park, a large green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The best holidays to experience in Cardiff include:
- Easter, mild spring weather and blooming flowers
- May Day, traditional celebrations with local customs and outdoor activities
- Bank Holiday in August, warm summer days perfect for exploring the city
- Christmas Day, a time for festive decorations and family gatherings.
The best things to do in Cardiff include:
- Millennium Centre, a renowned arts venue hosting opera, ballet, and theater performances
- Explore the vibrant nightlife in Cardiff's city center with its array of pubs and clubs
- Take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for scenic views and historical insights
- Visit the Cardiff International White Water for an adventurous day of rafting and kayaking
- Enjoy shopping and dining at the bustling Cardiff Market, offering local produce and unique finds.
The best season to visit Cardiff is Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Cardiff is during May-June or September-October.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Madrid to Cardiff among Omio's users.
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.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Madrid to Cardiff
Most Madrid to Cardiff flights use the Madrid Barajas Airport to Cardiff Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Madrid and Cardiff airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in Madrid
Arrival airports in Cardiff
Which Madrid airport do flights to Cardiff leave from?
Flights from Madrid to Cardiff depart from Madrid Barajas Airport. The airport is 8 miles (13 km) from Madrid city centre at Avda. de la Hispanidad, s/n, 28042 Madrid, Spain.
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.
Which Cardiff airport do flights from Madrid arrive at?
Flights from Madrid to Cardiff arrive at Cardiff Airport. Cardiff Airport is 1 miles (2 km) from Cardiff city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Madrid to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Cardiff and Madrid
Most popular flights to Cardiff
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
