Other Options for This Route
Other Destinations
Los Angeles (LAX) to Houston (HOU) in December from $51
From $51
Los Angeles (LAX) to Las Vegas (Any) in December from $54
From $54
Los Angeles (LAX) to Houston (IAH) in December from $85
From $85
Los Angeles (LAX) to Boston (BOS) in December from $86
From $86
Los Angeles (LAX) to Guatemala City (GUA) in December from $102
From $102
Los Angeles (LAX) to New York (JFK) in December from $118
From $118
Flights from Other Cities
Casablanca (CMN) to Madrid (MAD) in December from $175
From $175
New York (Any) to Madrid (MAD) in December from $264
From $264
Santo Domingo (SDQ) to Madrid (MAD) in December from $389
From $389
Portland (PDX) to Madrid (MAD) in December from $529
From $529
Atlanta (ATL) to Madrid (MAD) in December from $742
From $742
New York (Any) to Madrid (MAD) in December from $937
From $937
✈️ Flight Guide: Los Angeles (LAX) → Madrid (MAD)
Complete travel information for your December journey
December at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) brings heavy holiday traffic and increased demand on the Los Angeles to Madrid route. Travelers should expect higher airfare and busier terminals between mid-December and early January. For cheaper fares, target midweek flights in early December or last-minute weekday deals if flexible. Remember nearby destinations — Santa Monica, Anaheim (Disneyland), Long Beach, San Diego, and Beverly Hills — when planning ground travel and allow 30–90 extra minutes depending on time of day. CTA: Book LAX to Madrid December flights early and sign up for fare alerts to lock in the best prices.
Departing from Los Angeles (LAX) FAQs
During December holiday travel, arrive at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) at least 3 hours before your international departure for Madrid. Security lines and airport traffic increase significantly in December, so allow extra time for check-in, TSA, and possible shuttle or parking delays. If you need assistance or have checked baggage, plan for even more time.
Yes — December, especially around Christmas and New Year's, typically sees higher fares for the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) route due to holiday demand. Book early (6–10 weeks ahead) and consider midweek departures to find better prices. Use fare alerts and flexible date searches to compare prices and spot sales.
From Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) you can find both nonstop and connecting options to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in December. Airlines such as Iberia and select American Airlines seasonal schedules may offer nonstop services, while Delta, Air Europa and other carriers provide one-stop itineraries via European or U.S. hubs. Check airline schedules early as winter routes can be seasonal.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) rarely has severe winter weather, but December can bring coastal fog, rain, and occasional delays that affect connections. Most December disruptions on the LAX to Madrid route originate from European winter storms or congestion at connecting hubs, so allow buffer time and check flight status prior to airport arrival. Keep travel insurance and flexible tickets in mind for holiday travel.
Plan airport transfers early: reserve airport parking, book a rideshare/taxi, or use the FlyAway bus service to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to avoid holiday congestion. If you live near Santa Monica, Beverly Hills, Anaheim, Long Beach or downtown Los Angeles, account for longer travel times due to seasonal traffic and holiday events. Consider arriving earlier in the day to bypass peak evening holiday traffic.
Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) remains fully operational in December, but certain lounges, eateries, or construction zones may have seasonal hours. Check airline lounge holiday schedules and LAWA notices, and confirm any terminal renovations that could affect check-in or security lines. For the best experience, verify terminal maps and reserve lounge access if needed.
Arriving at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in December means colder temperatures and festive city scenes; allow additional time for passport control and baggage during holiday periods. Use Renfe Cercanías (C1) to reach Atocha quickly, or take a taxi/airport bus to Plaza de Cibeles and Gran Vía. If you plan onward trips to nearby destinations like Toledo, Segovia, Valencia or Sevilla, pre-book Renfe AVE tickets and check holiday train schedules. CTA: Reserve Madrid airport transfers in advance and download Renfe timetables to secure your December itinerary.
Arriving at Madrid (MAD) FAQs
Upon arrival at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), U.S. travelers go through passport control, collect checked luggage, and clear customs; December can be busier due to holiday visitors. Madrid has streamlined eGates for eligible passport holders which can speed up immigration lines, but non-EU passengers should allow extra time. After customs, follow signs to Renfe Cercanías, taxi ranks, or airport express buses to reach Madrid city center or onward destinations like Toledo or Segovia.
Madrid in December is typically cold with daytime highs around 8–12°C (46–54°F) and colder nights, so pack a warm coat, layers, and comfortable walking shoes. If you’re flying from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), prepare for a temperature shift and possible rain; include a scarf, umbrella, and a light sweater for indoor heating. Packing adapters and a portable charger are also recommended for travel between time zones.
The fastest options from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) to downtown Madrid are the Cercanías/Renfe train (C1 line), the Airport Express bus, taxis, or app-based ride services. In December, trains and buses follow regular schedules but expect holiday crowds, so allow extra time for luggage and possible delays. For nearby destinations like Toledo, Segovia, or Valencia, consider Renfe long-distance trains or renting a car.
Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) operates through December but some shops, lounges, or car rental desks may have reduced holiday hours. Check AENA notifications and your airline for terminal-specific updates before travel. If arriving during holiday evenings, pre-book your transfer or ensure credit cards are accepted for taxis and transport services.
From Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), you can reach major Spanish destinations such as Toledo, Segovia, Valencia, Sevilla, and Barcelona via Renfe high-speed trains from Madrid city stations or by flying regional/low-cost carriers. December schedules may shift for holidays so book RENFE AVE tickets in advance, especially for popular holiday travel dates. Consider transferring to Madrid Atocha or Chamartín stations for high-speed connections.
Public health protocols at Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) vary; as of December, typical requirements include mask recommendations and proof of vaccination only when mandated by authorities. Always check AENA, the Spanish Ministry of Health, and your airline for the latest entry requirements for travelers from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Carry documentation and digital copies of health forms if required.
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December events and festivals — Madrid and Los Angeles highlights for travelers
Madrid in December: Expect festive attractions like the Plaza Mayor Christmas market, holiday lights along Gran Vía, seasonal nativity scenes, and New Year's Eve celebrations at Puerta del Sol. These events draw visitors and increase hotel and flight demand, so book transportation from Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in advance. Los Angeles in December hosts holiday parades, winter concerts, and increased road traffic around attractions such as Anaheim's Disneyland holiday events — all factors that can lengthen travel time to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Plan ground transfers conservatively around major event dates and buy advance tickets for popular holiday attractions.
Best time to fly LAX to MAD — December considerations and seasonal advice
The best time to fly from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in December is usually early in the month or midweek (Tuesdays–Thursdays) to avoid peak Christmas/New Year demand. If traveling for the holidays, aim to travel early December or return mid-January when fares dip. Red-eye flights and off-peak midweek departures often produce the lowest fares and fewer crowds at both airports. For the smoothest experience, book flexible tickets and monitor price drops with fare alerts.
Direct vs connecting flights — LAX to MAD December pros and cons
Choosing between nonstop and connecting flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) depends on priorities: nonstop flights are faster (about 11–12.5 hours) and more convenient for long-haul comfort, while connecting itineraries can be significantly cheaper or provide better schedules. Common connecting hubs include London Heathrow (LHR), Paris CDG, Amsterdam AMS, Frankfurt FRA, and U.S. hubs like JFK or IAD. In December, connecting flights may be more susceptible to missed connections due to winter weather in Europe, so leave longer layovers or choose protected connections when possible. CTA: Compare nonstop versus one-stop options and book the itinerary that balances cost and reliability for your December trip.
Airline comparison for LAX to MAD in December — Iberia, American, Delta, Air Europa and partners
Iberia: Often offers nonstop LAX–MAD service with competitive transatlantic fares, Spanish-language onboard service, and Oneworld benefits if you have status. American Airlines: Provides direct or seasonal nonstop options and extensive connections via U.S. hubs with Oneworld benefits; watch for holiday surcharges. Delta: Typically offers one-stop options via European partners or U.S. hubs with SkyTeam connections, often competitive on price. Air Europa: Offers one-stop and seasonal routes to Madrid, frequently price-competitive with varied schedules. When choosing an airline in December, consider nonstop vs connection, mileage accrual, baggage allowances, and schedule reliability. CTA: Compare prices and loyalty perks across carriers and book early for December travel to Madrid.
Seasonal travel tips for LAX to MAD in December — packing, jet lag, and airport advice
Pack for a winter arrival: warm layers, a waterproof outer layer, and comfortable shoes for walking on city streets and cobblestones in Madrid. To reduce jet lag after flying from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD), try to reset your sleep schedule a few days before departure, stay hydrated on the flight, and get natural light exposure upon arrival. For holiday travel, confirm airport lounge and transport operating hours, allow extra time for security and customs, and pre-book transfers or train tickets into Madrid. CTA: Create a holiday travel checklist and reserve airport transfers now to avoid last-minute hassles.
Flight time and schedules for Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD)
Nonstop flights between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) generally take about 11 to 12.5 hours depending on winds and routing. In December, expect a mix of nonstop and one-stop flights; common connection hubs include London Heathrow (LHR), Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG), Amsterdam Schiphol (AMS), Frankfurt (FRA), and major U.S. hubs such as New York (JFK) or Dallas (DFW). Flight frequency may drop slightly on off-peak winter days but increases near holiday dates. Check early morning and late-night departures for available schedule options and sign up for airline updates on seasonal schedule changes.
How to find cheap LAX to MAD flights in December — deals, tips and booking windows
To find cheap flights from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Adolfo Suárez Madrid–Barajas Airport (MAD) in December, start searching early and be flexible with departure dates. Typically, booking 6–10 weeks ahead yields better holiday fares; midweek departures (Tuesday–Thursday) and red-eye flights can be significantly cheaper. Consider one-stop itineraries via European hubs (London LHR, Paris CDG, Amsterdam AMS, Frankfurt FRA) or U.S. hubs (JFK, IAD, ORD) to reduce costs. Use fare alerts, compare round-trip vs multi-city fares, and check low-cost carriers for connecting segments. CTA: Sign up for fare alerts and compare nonstop versus connecting options to score the best December deal.