Can you stay overnight at Madrid Airport?

Madrid Airport is well set up for travelers who need to catch some sleep while waiting to board their next flight. It even offers three different options for resting. If you’ve got an early departure, you can easily spend the night there without worrying about missing your flight.

You might also end up spending the night at the airport if your flight gets canceled, delayed, or if you miss it and have to wait to be rebooked on another one.

We’ve put together a guide to help you know the best places to rest at Madrid’s Adolfo Suárez Barajas Airport, both inside and nearby. You’ll also find advice on safety, practical tips for making your stay smoother, and ways to turn getting some sleep into a more comfortable experience.

We’ll also walk you through both free and paid options, how far they are from the airport, and what services each one offers. Let’s dive in!

Can you stay overnight at Madrid Airport?

Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport is designed with travelers in mind, offering spots where you can catch some rest while waiting for your connecting flight. Options range from free waiting areas to VIP lounges and even Air Rooms.

The airport never closes and stays busy around the clock, welcoming passengers from all over the world, whether they are visiting Madrid or just passing through on a layover. That is why so many travelers are often on the lookout for a place to rest or even grab a quick shower for a few hours.

Madrid’s airport is set up to cover both needs. If you want to use any of these services, you’ll need to book ahead and pay in advance.

These services come with set rates and schedules. For example, you can pay to stay overnight, but during the day the rooms can only be used for up to six hours.

But you can also use free, unrestricted areas, which may be less comfortable but are ultimately very useful when it comes to resting.

Sleeping at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

If you want to sleep comfortably at Madrid airport, having a few key items can help you recharge before heading to your next destination. You should also pay attention to some basic safety and practical tips from the airport.

Here are a few tips if you plan to catch some sleep in the airport’s waiting areas, which are open to all passengers and, of course, free of charge.

1. Keep an eye on your belongings

• Keep your belongings close and within sight at all times. Whenever possible, carry your travel documents in a waist bag or inside your coat instead of leaving them with your luggage.
• Try to store technological devices and jewelry in places that are difficult to access.
• Do not rely entirely on other passengers to look after your personal belongings while you sleep.

2. Wear appropriate clothing for rest

• You probably won’t be sleeping in pajamas, so we recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothes that allow you to move easily. Sportswear can be a great choice for this.
• It’s also important to wear comfortable shoes that don’t restrict your feet.

3. Items that will help you sleep better at the airport

• Don’t forget to pack a blanket in your bag to keep warm, no matter where you’re resting during your travels. Even in summer, the airport can feel quite chilly inside.
• To avoid being disturbed by lights, you could cover your eyes with a sleep mask.
• Bring a travel pillow that is easy to use and store in your luggage.
• If necessary, use headphones or earplugs so that you are not disturbed by noise.
• Remember to have water and snacks on hand.

4. Follow the rules and behave moderately

• Airport authorities will not reprimand you while you sleep as long as you remain within permitted areas.
• Do not block doors, corridors, fire cabinets, or spaces adjacent to offices.
• Remember that you are in a common area of the airport, so do not occupy multiple seats.
• The best area to sleep in the waiting chairs is Terminals 2 and 3, as these do not have armrests, are more comfortable, and are free.

5. If you decide to pay for Air Rooms or access to the VIP lounges

• If you plan to use an Air Room or a private room inside the airport, keep in mind that during the day you can rent it for 3 to 6 hours at around $130, or book it overnight for about $235. You’ll find them on the first floor of Terminal T4.
• You also have the option of renting a VIP lounge with a shower, starting at around $45, or up to $50 to use a private bathroom and shower. The maximum stay is 4 hours, and these lounges are located in Terminals 1, 2, 3, 4, and 4S, between the first and second floors.

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Air Rooms, VIP lounges, and waiting area seats aren’t the only ways to rest during a layover in Madrid. You can also stay at nearby hotels or other comfortable accommodations to get a good, refreshing sleep.

Here you can read about how to spend the night at San Pablo Airport in Seville.

Sleeping near Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

Around Madrid airport, you’ll find several places to stay, including hotels, Couchsurfing, and Airbnb, available for as long as you need. Some are more budget-friendly than others.

1. Recommended hotels near Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

Here are the hotels closest to the airport and the amenities they offer to make your stay more comfortable. They don’t offer hourly rates, so booking for long periods could end up costing more than you need.

Still, the comfort and services a hotel provides can be worth it, as some offer access to a pool, a gym, and even airport transfers when you need them.

2. Airbnb options near Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

Airbnb options are great if you want to spend the night in a more homey environment, where you can even cook your own meals, explore the neighborhood, and interact with your hosts.

However, privacy isn’t always guaranteed, especially if you rent a single room, since hosts often live in the same space and you may need to share areas like the bathroom and kitchen.

3. Accommodation by the hour

Hourly accommodations let you better manage your budget, though prices vary depending on the services offered or the location. You can find these options through platforms like ByHours or DayBreakHotels.

Some hotels let you book and pay only for the hours you need, which can be cheaper than a full-night stay. You still get perks like a pool, gym, buffet, or even free airport transfers.

4. Hospitality apps 

If you’re looking for a different experience than staying in a hotel, free hospitality apps can be a great choice. Here are a few to consider.

Be sure to reach out to hosts ahead of time to confirm availability. Take a close look at the listing, read reviews, and always follow the platform’s safety guidelines.

• Couchsurfing: A wide network of hosts who can provide you with free accommodation.
• Host a Sister: A community exclusively for women, offering free accommodation.
• Trustroots: A platform focused on finding free accommodation for backpackers and bicycle travelers.

Frequently asked questions about sleeping at Adolfo Suárez Madrid-Barajas Airport

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Paula Henderson

Spanish-English Translator

Hi! I'm a Spanish-English translator working with Holafly, helping bring travel content to life for curious travelers. As a digital nomad with a passion for exploring, I'm always adding new spots to my bucket list. If you love to travel like me, stick around because you're in the right place to find inspiration for your next trip! ✈️🌍

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