What's the best way to get to our hotel from the Madrid airport? We're traveling with 3 kids (ages 11 and 12). How much does taxi cost? Is metro convenient? We'll be staying at the Rafealhoteles Atocha.

I would email your hotel and ask what options there may be.

metro is not easy to navigate with family and luggage,
taxi would be about 30 euros, you may look at shuttle
http://www.aerocity.com/

try www.bonotaxi.com.

I have never used them but they also offer minivan pick up as well as taxi. If their web prices are not old, seems it is 75E for up to 7 pax.

once in madrid, the tourist bus will be of great use as public transportation for you .. children are free under a certain age. An easy way for you to navigate the city with three kids.

Aerocity shuttle is highly recommened. We used them last year and were very pleased. Probably best option since I am not sure taxi will even take 5 people, and I personally was scammed and would not try them again.

yes, taxis can only take 4 pax. so a shuttle or minivan of some sort is the only way.

There was a recent post by Robert re taxis sayiing that in Madrid right now they seem to be limiting taxis to 3 pax !

So take the aerocity shuttle suggested by danan (arrange in advnance!)