Summary:
Travel between Spain’s biggest cities has never been quicker or more efficient.
The route from Madrid to Barcelona has been the busiest flight route in Europe for several years. Spain stands out in Europe by having two cities that attract an equal mix of tourists and business travelers. Consequently, people strive to travel between the two cities as quickly as possible, more so than in any other city across Europe.
When the AVE train service launched, there were expectations of decreased air travel between the two cities due to the central location of train stations and the lack of check-in requirements. While it is true that the AVE has impacted air travel, flying from Madrid to Barcelona remains the busiest route in Europe, thanks largely to Iberia’s Air Shuttle service.
How Does Iberia’s Air Shuttle Work?
Iberia has optimized their check-in and boarding processes on their Madrid-Airport route through their shuttle service. Here is how the service operates:
- Access the shuttle service online by selecting ‘Aereo Puente’ or ‘Air Shuttle’; there’s no need to specify your travel time.
- Arrive at the T4 terminal of Madrid Barajas airport or T1 at Barcelona El Prat airport and head directly to Puente Aereo, the dedicated Madrid-Barcelona area.
- Check the next plane’s departure time on a screen displaying remaining seats. During peak hours, flights operate every 20 minutes.
- Confirm your seat at the machine, then proceed through the dedicated Madrid-Barcelona check-in terminal and board within 15 minutes.
Is the Train or the Plane Quickest?
In terms of raw travel time, the plane travels significantly faster than the train. However, it’s important to consider additional factors, such as travel to the airport or train station. Overall, the total time from Barcelona to Madrid is quite similar, with the plane slightly ahead. For a more detailed comparison, look into the Madrid to Barcelona travel options.
Advantages of the AVE High-Speed Train from Madrid to Barcelona
- Easier Access to the Train Station: Depending on your location, it may be more convenient to reach the train station than the airport, especially for visitors in the northern part of the city.
- No Check-In Required: Boarding closes only two minutes prior to departure.
- Comfortable Travel Experience: Trains offer more space, allowing passengers to use electronic devices throughout the journey.
- Cost-Effective Option: Ticket prices for the AVE are usually lower than those for the Air Shuttle, even though cheaper flights exist.
Advantages of Flying from Madrid to Barcelona
Many advantages listed below specifically apply to the Iberia Air Shuttle, which tends to be pricier than standard flights.
- Faster Travel Time: While the high-speed train journey can last between two-and-a-half to three-and-a-half hours, the plane is scheduled for one hour and twenty minutes.
- Proximity of Madrid Airport: Especially for drivers, traveling from the business district to the airport can take approximately the same time as reaching the train station.
- Slightly Slower Check-In: Madrid airport’s check-in speed is comparable to the train, allowing you to board the next flight within 15 minutes of accessing the check-in area.
- Flexible Flight Options: If you miss your flight, you can board the next available one, which typically departs within an hour.
- More Frequent Flights: The last flight from Madrid leaves 75 minutes after the final AVE, arriving in Barcelona before the last train.
Who Should Take the AVE Train between Madrid and Barcelona?
This option is ideal for travelers on a budget, those comfortable using the metro to reach the station, or anyone with a fixed travel schedule.
Recommended for Travelers in: Areas such as Atocha, Sol, the Prado museum, Lavapies, or La Latina, where Atocha station may be more accessible than the airport.
Who Should Fly between Madrid and Barcelona?
Flying is best for travelers willing to invest more for convenience, uncertainty regarding arrival times at the airport, or those on business trips needing to leave quickly after events.
Recommended for Travelers in: Locations north of Santiago Bernabeu or in other northern districts, where access to the airport via taxi can be faster than getting to the train station.
Is there a similar shuttle service to Valencia or Seville?
Currently, no such shuttle service exists for Valencia or Seville. In these cases, the AVE train service is generally a superior choice compared to flights.
