Submit feedbackSubmit feedbackComplete travel information for your October journey
A nonstop flight between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) typically takes around 11 hours 30 minutes to 12 hours, depending on winds and routing. October tailwinds can slightly shorten or lengthen flight time, and scheduled duration may vary by airline, so always check your itinerary before departure.
Yes — Iberia operates scheduled nonstop flights between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) during parts of the year including October in many recent schedules. If nonstop seats are limited or seasonal, you can also find one-stop options via U.S. or European hubs such as New York (JFK), London (LHR), or Frankfurt (FRA).
For international departures from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Madrid in October, arrive at least 3 hours before scheduled departure to allow for check-in, security, and potential peak-season lane delays. October is shoulder season but weekends and evening peak departures can still be busy; factor extra time if you have checked bags or need to visit airline lounges.
Luggage allowances depend on the airline and fare class; most transatlantic carriers include at least one carry-on and one checked bag in economy with some carriers charging for checked bags. For October travel, pack a light jacket and check airline size and weight rules, as Madrid’s cooler evenings may require an extra layer. Always verify baggage allowances during booking and at check-in to avoid fees.
October is a strong shoulder-season month to fly from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD): crowds are thinner than summer, weather in Madrid is mild, and you can often find lower fares than peak summer months. Book 6–10 weeks in advance to secure the best prices, and consider midweek departures for cheaper options.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) serves travelers from nearby and popular Southern California destinations including Long Beach, Anaheim (Disneyland/Orange County), Santa Monica, and San Diego; many travelers combine these regional visits before or after an international flight to Madrid. If arriving from elsewhere in California, several shuttle, train and long-distance bus connections to LAX make it a convenient gateway.
From Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), the fastest options to central Madrid are the Cercanías (commuter rail) C1 line, the metro Line 8, or taxi/ride-hailing services. In October, trains and metro run normally but check schedules for late-October DST adjustments and occasional holiday changes around October 12 (Spain’s National Day). A taxi to central Madrid typically takes 20–40 minutes depending on traffic.
Visa and entry requirements depend on your nationality; U.S. citizens can travel to Spain for short tourist stays (up to 90 days) without a visa under the Schengen rules but must carry a passport valid for at least three months beyond the planned departure from the Schengen Area. In October, always check the latest entry rules, passport validity requirements, and any health advisories before departure to avoid denial of entry.
October in Madrid is mild and autumnal, with daytime temperatures generally between 15°C and 22°C (59–72°F) and cooler evenings. Occasional rain showers are possible; pack a compact umbrella and layers for comfortable city exploration after arrival at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD).
Madrid highlights in October: Spain’s National Day (Fiesta Nacional) on October 12 often includes parades and ceremonies that can affect local transport and hotel availability. Madrid’s Festival de Otoño (Autumn Festival) runs across theater and arts venues in October–November, offering cultural performances ideal for visitors. Los Angeles highlights in October: seasonal cultural and film events, outdoor concerts, and Halloween-related activities like the West Hollywood Halloween Carnival and theme-park seasonal events. When traveling LAX to MAD in October, plan ahead for higher demand around October 12, reserve tickets to major museums (Prado, Reina Sofía), and allow extra transit time on busy event days. CTA: Check event calendars and book event tickets and train connections early for October travel.
The best time to fly LAX to MAD for value and comfortable sightseeing is the shoulder seasons — spring (April–May) and fall (September–October). October specifically delivers milder weather in Madrid, fewer tourists than summer, and often reduced airfares compared to July–August. For the lowest fares and best availability, book 6–10 weeks ahead and be flexible on departure days. CTA: Book your October LAX to MAD flight now to take advantage of shoulder-season pricing and pleasant Madrid weather.
Direct nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) are the fastest option (about 11.5–12 hours) and minimize disruption and baggage transfer risk. Connecting flights can be 3–8 hours longer overall depending on layover hubs such as New York (JFK), London (LHR), Amsterdam (AMS) or Frankfurt (FRA), but they frequently offer cheaper fares and more schedule options in October. If maximizing time in Madrid is your priority, choose a nonstop; if saving money or earning airline status through a partner is key, consider a reliable one-stop itinerary. CTA: Compare nonstop and connecting options for your October trip to balance cost and convenience.
Iberia: Often the best nonstop option for LAX–MAD, offering direct service and typical transatlantic amenities; fares can be higher but save many hours of travel time. American Airlines: Offers codeshare/one-stop options to Madrid via partner hubs like New York or Miami; good connectivity and loyalty program benefits for Oneworld members. British Airways: Common one-stop via London Heathrow (LHR); watch layover lengths and UK entry rules if changing terminals. Air Europa and other European carriers provide competitive connecting itineraries via Madrid or other European hubs. For October travel, compare overall travel time, baggage allowances, and seat comfort; nonstop Iberia is ideal for speed while one-stop carriers often offer lower fares or more frequent schedule choices. CTA: Compare prices and amenities now and select the airline that best matches your October travel priorities.
Packing & clothing: For October, pack light layers, a compact umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes for Madrid’s streets; include a light sweater for cool evenings. Airport & security tips: Arrive 3 hours early at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) for international departures, use online check-in, and enroll in TSA PreCheck/Global Entry if eligible to speed airport processing. Jet lag & health: To reduce jet lag on the roughly 11.5-hour LAX–MAD flight, try adjusting sleep patterns a day before departure, stay hydrated on the flight, and get sunlight exposure on arrival. Local logistics: Book airport transfers and AVE train tickets in advance for smoother onward travel from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD). CTA: Prepare now — pack breathable layers and set travel alerts for LAX to MAD flights in October to ensure a smooth trip.
Nonstop flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) usually take about 11 hours 30 minutes to 12 hours. Most nonstop flights depart LAX in the evening Pacific Time (PDT) and arrive in Madrid in the morning or midday local time (CEST/CET), creating convenient daytime arrival. If connecting, typical one-stop durations range from 14 to 20+ hours depending on layover length and routing; popular connecting hubs include JFK, LHR, FRA, and AMS. Note: late-October daylight saving time changes in Europe can shift local arrival times by one hour; check itineraries carefully and confirm gates and flight numbers on your day of travel. CTA: Review airline schedule pages to pick the best departure time for your October trip.
To secure cheap LAX to MAD flights in October, book 6–10 weeks ahead and be flexible with dates and departure times. Midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) and late-night departures from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) often yield lower fares. Use fare comparison tools, set price alerts on Google Flights and Skyscanner, and check both nonstop options (often premium-priced) and one-stop itineraries through hubs like New York (JFK), London (LHR) or Amsterdam (AMS). Consider alternative nearby departure airports only if the total trip cost (including transfers) is lower. CTA: Set a fare alert now for LAX to MAD October travel to get notified of price drops and flash sales.
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Book your economy class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your october trip.
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Book your economy class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your october trip.
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Book your economy class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your october trip.
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Book your economy class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your october trip.
Starting from $490
Book your economy class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your october trip.
Starting from $490
Book your economy class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your october trip.
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Book your economy class flight from Los Angeles (LAX) to Madrid (MAD)and save money on your travel. Compare all flight options to find the best deal for your october trip.
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Yes — from Madrid city center you can reach historic nearby cities such as Toledo, Segovia, and Ávila by Renfe high-speed (AVE) or conventional services; from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) take the Cercanías or metro into central Madrid and transfer to Atocha or Chamartín stations for onward services. October is an excellent month for day trips due to milder weather and fewer summer crowds.
October is shoulder season and generally less busy than July and August, though Spain’s National Day (Fiesta Nacional) on October 12 can increase passenger volumes and lead to longer immigration lines. To minimize wait times at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), use eGates if eligible, have travel documents ready, and consider arriving earlier if you have tight onward connections.