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Journey information
Overview: San José to Madrid flight
Costa Rica
Spain
Flights from San José to Madrid depart on average 26 times per day, taking around 12h 24m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at $737 (€600) if you book in advance.
There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest flight covers the 5270 miles (8482 km) distance in 10h 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 5270 miles (8482 km) |
Average flight duration 12h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price $737 (€600) |
Flights per day 26 |
Direct flights 1 |
Fastest flight 10h 40m |
Cheapest month to travel December |
First flight 00:10 |
Last flight 23:55 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from San José to Madrid start from as low as $737 (€600) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $970 (€790) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 26 daily trains from San José to Madrid with 1 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 10h 40m but the average duration is 12h 24m
Train Operators
- Travel from San José to Madrid with Iberia, Compagnie Africaine D'Aviation, Air France, Air Europa, and KLM
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Iberia.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from San Jose and arrive in Madrid Barajas Airport
- First train typically departs at 12:10 AM and the last at 11:55 PM
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 San José to Madrid
Showing times and prices for Nov 26
Cheapest price
$818
Average price
$979
Fastest journey
10 h 40 m
Average duration
15 h 33 m
Flights per day
4
Distance
8482 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight ticket from San José to Madrid is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from San José to Madrid will cost around $979 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $818.
Fast flights
Of the 4 flights that leave San José for Madrid onWed, Nov 26, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Nov 26 the direct flights cover the 8482 km distance in an average of 15 h 33 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 10 h 40 m .
On Wed, Nov 26 the longest flights will take 21 h 55 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.
08:25PM14h50
San José11:15AMMadrid
$8181One-way
0 transfers
10:10PM10h40
San José08:50AMMadrid
$8781One-way
0 transfers
08:29PM14h46
San José11:15AMMadrid
$10711One-way
0 transfers
07:35PM21h55
San José05:30PMMadrid
$11491One-way
0 transfers
10:10PM10h40
San José08:50AMMadrid
$8781One-way
0 transfers
08:29PM14h46
San José11:15AMMadrid
$10711One-way
0 transfers
08:25PM14h50
San José11:15AMMadrid
$8181One-way
0 transfers
07:35PM21h55
San José05:30PMMadrid
$11491One-way
0 transfers
Live departures
San José to Madrid flight times
The table below shows live departures for San José to Madrid flights for today, Tuesday, November 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at 9:37 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:00 PM San José | 15h45 | 10:45 AM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:10 PM San José | 10h40 | 8:50 AM Madrid | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San José to Madrid by flight
Compare 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.
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Airlines: Iberia, Compagnie Africaine D'Aviation, Air France, Air Europa, KLM, American Airlines, Lufthansa, Edelweiss Air from San José to MadridFind the best flights between San José to Madrid with Omio's travel partners Iberia, Compagnie Africaine D'Aviation, Air France, Air Europa, KLM, American Airlines, Lufthansa, Edelweiss Air from $737 (€600). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.
Air France
About
Air France is the national flag carrier of France and one of Europe’s leading airlines, connecting travelers to destinations across Europe, the Americas, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. Operating from its main hub at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Air France offers a modern fleet with services ranging from affordable Economy fares to Premium Economy and Business Class featuring spacious seating, fine dining, and lounge access. Known for its French hospitality and style, Air France combines comfort, service, and global connectivity for both business and leisure travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 55m
Cheapest Price
$425 (€346)
Air France frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x35x25cm) + 1 accessory (40x30x15cm) included in standard tickets
Additional luggage
Additional checked baggage can be purchased, with varying fees based on route and timing of purchase
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on ticket type - Basic tickets non-refundable, Flex tickets refundable with fee, Business fully refundable
Pregnant on board
Flying permitted until end of 36th week for single pregnancies, end of 32nd week for twins. Medical certificate required after 28th week
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-14 can travel as UM with mandatory service. Ages 15-17 optional. Service must be booked in advance
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Air France provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility through their Saphir service, requiring 48h advance notice
Pets
Small pets under 8kg allowed in cabin, larger ones in hold, service animals accepted
Entertaiment on board
American Airlines
About
American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the world, connecting travelers to hundreds of destinations across the United States, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and beyond. Operating from major hubs such as Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Charlotte, American offers a wide range of travel options. Passengers can choose from Economy with affordable fares, Premium Economy with extra space, or Business and First Class featuring flat-bed seats, premium dining, and lounge access. With a modern fleet and membership in the oneworld alliance, American Airlines combines global reach with comfort and reliability.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
15h 32m
Cheapest Price
$998 (€813)
American Airlines frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (22 x 14 x 9 inches) and 1 personal item (18 x 14 x 8 inches) included in most fares
Additional luggage
Checked bags fees vary by route. First checked bag typically $30, second $40 on domestic flights
Cancellation Policy
Basic Economy tickets cannot be changed or refunded. Other fares allow changes with fee, refunds subject to fare rules.
Pregnant on board
Passengers can fly up to 36 weeks for single pregnancies, 32 weeks for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required within 7 days of departure if within 4 weeks of due date.
Unaccompagned minor
Children ages 5-14 can travel alone using American Airlines Unaccompanied Minor Service. Service fee is $150 each way.
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
American Airlines provides wheelchair assistance and special services for passengers with disabilities. Assistance must be requested at least 48 hours before departure.
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin for $125 fee. Must be in approved carrier under seat. Service animals allowed.
Entertaiment on board
Lufthansa
About
Lufthansa is Germany’s largest airline and one of the leading carriers in Europe, connecting travelers to destinations worldwide from its main hubs in Frankfurt and Munich. Its modern fleet offers a wide choice of travel experiences, from Economy Class with affordable fares and onboard entertainment to Premium Economy, Business Class, and First Class with extra comfort, fine dining, and exclusive lounge access.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
20h 25m
Cheapest Price
$1128 (€919)
Lufthansa frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 carry-on bag (8 kg) and 1 personal item included in Economy Class
Additional luggage
Additional bags can be purchased, prices vary by route and fare type
Cancellation Policy
Refunds depend on fare type; most flexible fares offer full refund, basic fares are non-refundable
Pregnant on board
Lufthansa allows travel up to end of 36th week for single pregnancies, 32nd week for multiple pregnancies. Medical certificate required after 28th week
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minor service available for children aged 5-11 (mandatory) and 12-17 (optional). Service fee applies
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
Food sold onboard
USB plugs
Accessibility
Lufthansa provides wheelchair service and special assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
Pets
Small dogs and cats allowed in cabin or cargo hold, fees apply. Service animals travel free of charge
Entertaiment on board
Iberia
About
Iberia is the national airline of Spain and a key member of the International Airlines Group (IAG), operating flights throughout Europe and to major global destinations. Its wide range of services makes travel easy and flexible—Economy passengers enjoy affordable fares with comfort, while Business Class travelers can experience premium seating, exclusive lounges, and enhanced dining. From short domestic flights to intercontinental journeys, Iberia combines Spanish hospitality with modern amenities, making it a popular choice worldwide.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 40m
Cheapest Price
$876 (€713)
Iberia frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (40x30x20 cm) and 1 checked bag (158 cm total dimensions) included in most fares except Basic
Additional luggage
Additional bags can be purchased, with prices varying by route and fare type
Cancellation Policy
Basic fares non-refundable, Flexible fares refundable with fee, Business fully refundable
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to 36 weeks (single pregnancy) or 32 weeks (multiple pregnancy). Medical certificate required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel alone using Iberia's unaccompanied minor service. Service is optional for ages 12-17
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Iberia provides assistance for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair assistance and special services for visually or hearing impaired passengers
Pets
Small pets under 8kg in cabin, larger animals in hold. Must be booked in advance
Entertaiment on board
Air Europa
About
Air Europa is Spain’s third most popular airline, offering flights across Europe and to destinations worldwide. For your next trip, you can choose between Economy and Business Class fares.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Air Europa frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag (55x35x25 cm) max 10kg
Additional luggage
23kg checked baggage available for purchase
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available depending on fare type, Basic fares non-refundable, Flex fares refundable with fee
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly up to 36 weeks (single pregnancy) or 32 weeks (multiple pregnancy). Medical certificate required after 28 weeks
Unaccompagned minor
Children aged 5-11 can travel unaccompanied with UM service. Service must be booked in advance and fees apply
Amenities on board the airplane
Wifi
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair assistance available, must be requested 48h before flight
Pets
Small pets under 8kg allowed in cabin, larger animals in hold
Entertaiment on board
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 Duration
21h 55m
Cheapest Price
$1122 (€914)
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
Edelweiss Air
About
Edelweiss Air is a Swiss leisure and charter airline, a sister company to Swiss International Air Lines, and part of the Lufthansa Group. Founded in 1995, it operates flights from its base at Zurich Airport to over 65 global destinations across Europe, North America, South America, Africa, and the Middle East. The airline is known for its focus on holiday destinations and aims to provide an enjoyable and relaxing experience for its guests. Its fleet primarily consists of Airbus A320s for short-haul routes and Airbus A340s for long-haul flights, with Airbus A350-900s expected to join the fleet in the near future.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
19h 25m
Cheapest Price
$1031 (€839)
Edelweiss Air frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Economy Light: 1 personal item (40 x 30 x 10 cm), Economy Classic/Flex: 1 personal item + 1 carry-on (55 x 40 x 23 cm, max 8 kg).
Additional luggage
Additional baggage can be booked online or via the service center for a fee, depending on the route and weight.
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary depending on the fare conditions; changes or cancellations may incur fees.
Pregnant on board
Pregnant women can fly without restrictions up to the 36th week of pregnancy. A medical certificate may be required for pregnancies with complications.
Unaccompagned minor
Edelweiss offers a service for unaccompanied minors aged 5-11, requiring advance booking and special assistance throughout the journey.
Amenities on board the airplane
Food sold onboard
Accessibility
Edelweiss Air provides assistance to passengers with disabilities, including wheelchair assistance and support for visually or hearing-impaired passengers. It is recommended to request assistance in advance.
Pets
Pets are allowed in the cabin or as cargo, depending on their size and weight. Advance notification is required.
Entertaiment on board
Compagnie Africaine D'Aviation
About
Iberojet is a Spanish-Portuguese charter airline that operates short and long-haul flights from Spain and Portugal, primarily on behalf of tour operators. It is the airline of Ávoris Corporación Empresarial, a global tour operator. The airline was formed on December 8, 2020, from the merger of Evelop Airlines and Orbest, both owned by Barceló Group. Iberojet's main headquarters are in Palma de Mallorca, Spain. The company focuses on leisure travel, offering routes to destinations including the Caribbean, Europe, and North Africa. Iberojet is also committed to environmental initiatives, aiming to reduce its carbon footprint.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
$475 (€387)
Compagnie Africaine D'Aviation frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
1 cabin bag 10kg (55x40x20cm) + 1 personal item (40x30x20cm)
Additional luggage
23kg checked baggage, additional can be purchased
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation within 24h of booking if flight is more than 7 days away
Pregnant on board
Until week 36 of pregnancy, medical certificate required after week 28
Unaccompagned minor
Iberojet offers an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service for children aged 5 to 18 who are traveling alone. Parents or guardians must request the service at least 72 hours before the flight and provide necessary paperwork and forms at the airport. The service costs 145 euros per trip.
Amenities on board the airplane
Accessibility
Assistance available for passengers with reduced mobility, must be requested 48h before flight
Pets
Pets allowed in cabin and cargo hold, max 8kg including carrier for cabin
Entertaiment on board
FAQs: San José to Madrid Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San José 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 San José to Madrid can start from as little as $598 (€487) when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San José to Madrid is $1,190 (€970); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The flight time from San José to Madrid is on average 12 h 44 min for the 5259 mile (8482 km) long journey, but the time it takes to go from San José to Madrid by flight can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The earliest flight from San José to Madrid leaves at 2: 45PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San José to Madrid leaves at 11: 21PM.
There are 14 flights a day from San José to Madrid which require at least one change with Iberia, Compagnie Africaine D'Aviation, Air France, KLM or Edelweiss Air. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer flights.
When taking a flight from San José to Madrid, you can count on Iberia, Compagnie Africaine D'Aviation, Air France, KLM or Edelweiss Air for the best way to get you to Madrid. You can also check all possible airlines who offer a service between San José and Madrid and compare the amenities they offer before buying a plane ticket.
Flights from San José to Madrid generally leave from San Jose and arrive in Madrid Barajas Airport.
San Jose is 18.7 km away from San José city centre and Madrid Barajas Airport is 15.9 km from Madrid city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from San José to Madrid is December.
Yes, you can take a flight to Madrid from San José.
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 7 h in winter and 8 h in summer between San José and Madrid.
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.
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 seasons to visit Madrid are Spring or Fall. The best weather to explore Madrid is during April-June or September-October.
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.
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.
popular airports
Popular airports from San José to Madrid
San José
Madrid
The major airport for departures in San José is San Jose. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Jose for your trip from San José to Madrid.
Amenities at airport
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Shower
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Car Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
2 km
Car connection
US-101, Exit 390Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops located in all terminals, including Duty-Free and Hudson News.
Parking
- Parking available near terminals, approximately 1.9€ ($2) per 20 minutes.
Dining
- Various options including fast food and sit-down restaurants in terminals A and B, such as Starbucks and Gordon Biersch
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Hotel
- Hotels nearby, such as DoubleTree by Hilton, within walking distance.
Shower
- Showers available in some lounges, access may require lounge entry fee.
Lounge
- Lounges available, including The Club at SJC, access with membership or day pass.
Lost and Found Office
- Lost and Found located in terminal A, contact airport services.
Car Rental
- Car rental services available on-site, including Hertz and Avis
Public transit options for San Jose
- VTA Bus Route 60, San Jose Airport stop, 4 miles
The major airport for arrivals in Madrid is Madrid Barajas Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madrid Barajas Airport for your journey to Madrid from San José.
Amenities at airport
WifiShoppingParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerLoungeLost and Found Officeinformation
Distance to city center
12 kmCar connection
M-14, exit 2Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport.
Shopping
- Shops in all terminals, including duty-free and fashion brands.
Parking
- Parking available at all terminals, approximately 2.5€ per hour.
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance.
WC
- Available throughout the airport.
Shower
- Yes
Lounge
- Lounges available in all terminals, including VIP lounges.
Lost and Found Office
- Located in Terminal 1, 2, and 4.
Public transit options for Madrid Barajas Airport
- Metro: Line 8
- Bus: Lines 101, 200, Exprés-203
- Train: Cercanías C1, C10
More options for your journey from San José to Madrid
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Madrid and San José
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