Award Travel

Find Flights Friday: Business Class to Madrid

Explore how to book a fantastic trip from Chicago to Madrid using Iberia’s Avios program. Learn about maximizing points transfers, finding business class availability, and making the most of your travel budget.

My Journey

Madrid, Spain

On July 2nd, 2022, I finally decided to use my travel points accumulated over the past five years for an exciting trip. With over 1 million points across various credit cards, airlines, and hotels, I rarely use them and often for budget stays or economy flights. Thanks to a tip from travel blogger Max Miles Points, I snagged a business class flight with Iberia from Chicago to Madrid for just 36,000 points and $123. The experience was a luxury, with lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and excellent service, despite a minor cockpit security concern. Upon arrival, we stayed at the Crowne Plaza near the airport, used convenient unlimited data SIM cards, and explored Madrid with a relaxed itinerary. Highlights included visiting Plaza Mayor, Parque de El Retiro, and the Royal Palace. Our day in Madrid was fulfilling, though I felt it could be managed in a single day without splitting the trip before heading to Porto.