The airport is well signed on major roads from the city. From central Madrid and M-30 highway, access via A-2 or via N-II (highway to Barcelona). Madrid Airport exit is 12 km (8 miles). From the M-40 highway, access from exit 3, via A10; from exit 9, via N-100. Both go direct to airport terminals.

The terminals are colour coded on signs approaching the airport: Terminal 1 - orange; Terminal 2 - green; Terminal 3 - red.

Madrid Airport's three terminals stand side by side, linked by corridors and moving walkways. This ribbon development presents its own challenges even to those who enjoy physical exercise and, sensibly, there is a transfer bus service for those passengers changing flights and terminals. Terminal 1 is for most International flights, Terminal 2 is for domestic Spanish flights plus Iberia European services to Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Italy, Luxembourg and Portugal; also Air Europa flights to France, Italy and Portugal and Terminal 3 is for Iberia domestic shuttle and Iberia/Air Nostrum regional flights. Madrid Airport operates a no smoking policy in the terminals, except for designated areas in the food outlets. Contrarily, in today's tobacco-resistant environment, it provides cigarette machines.

Madrid Airport has several options for refreshment, but there is more variety after security and in the departures. Madrid Airport also have several shops in the departure area, both British and Spanish. These include Agatha, Bally and the Body Shop.