| Document and Entity Information | Jul. 11, 2023 |
| Cover [Abstract] | |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0001126975 |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Jul. 11, 2023 |
| Entity Registrant Name | MAGELLAN MIDSTREAM PARTNERS, L.P. |
| Entity Incorporation State Country Code | DE |
| Entity File Number | 1-16335 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 73-1599053 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | One Williams Center |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Tulsa |
| Entity Address, State or Province | OK |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 74172 |
| City Area Code | (918) |
| Local Phone Number | 574-7000 |
| Written Communications | true |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Pre Commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Pre Commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Security 12b Title | Common Units |
| Trading Symbol | MMP |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
