You may be wondering what my favorite things to do in Madrid for Christmas are.
Despite the crowds, visiting Madrid at this time of the year is a highly recommended option. And that’s because Christmas in Spain is an incredible 2-week period full of special days and traditions.
The Christmas time festivities kickstart in Spain on December 22 with the National Christmas Lottery. Families start to celebrate Christmas on December 24 and everything ends with the Día de los Tres Reyes Magos on January 6.
In the last month of the year, lights illuminate the streets, trees appear in the squares and chestnut vendors are installed in the main corners of the center. At Christmas, the atmosphere is simply magical.
It’s going to be a busy season in Madrid, so I suggest you book as early as possible as events and activities sell out quickly!
Also be sure to check my favorite things to do in Madrid in December.
Enjoy the Christmas lights walk
Christmas is a very special time of the year and Madrid likes to celebrate it in grand style. Over 200 streets and squares are dressed in lights starting at the end of November. The whole city is lit up with pretty little twinkling Christmas lights!
With this special Madrid Christmas lights walk that I’ve personally designed you can see for yourself how gorgeous the city looks like.
It includes a map, so you’ll never be lost. And the best of it all is that you can walk at your own pace around the main avenues to admire the best Christmas lights.
Tour the top Madrid museums
Cold temperatures make indoor activities more attractive, and visiting a museum is always a good plan.
Insider Tip: The Madrid Museum Pass is a convenient and cost-effective option if you’re an art lover looking to explore Madrid’s renowned museums without the hassle of long lines and rigid scheduling.
In this sense, Madrid is home to several world-class museums where you can spend hours. There’s an area of the city known as the Golden Art Triangle, which is home to 3 of the best museums in the world: El Prado, the Reina Sofía, and the Thyssen.
- If you’re an art and history lover, you’ll enjoy this small group skip-the-line 1.5-hour tour of the Prado Museum.
- You can visit Spain’s most important modern art gallery, the Reina Sofía Museum, in a 1.5-hour skip-the-line semi-private tour which will allow you to see the most essential works of art.
- Add some culture to your Madrid Christmas visit during this 1.5-hour guided semi-private tour of the amazing Thyssen Museum.
Explore the best Christmas markets in Madrid
During the winter months, cities across Europe come alive with Christmas markets. And Madrid is no different.
The Christmas markets in Madrid start to roll out in late November and they run until early January so you have plenty time to check them out.
The biggest one is at Plaza Mayor, the main town square in Madrid. There, you’ll find dozens of stalls selling traditional Christmas handicrafts, Nativity scenes figurines, ornaments, toys, jewelry, and more. Occasionally, you can catch shows like live musical performances. And you can also buy typical Christmas sweet, as well as food and drinks.
But that’s not your only option…
Have a look at a list of my favorite Christmas markets in Madrid.
Admire the Christmas lights from a tourist bus
What’s a better way to experience Christmas than enjoying the Christmas lights and decorations from a hop-on hop-off bus?
Taking the tourist bus you’ll be able to see the most emblematic streets of the city and enjoy the lights in a different way than the rest of the tourists and locals.
You’re going to love touring this picturesque Christmas route and as tickets can be purchased in advance online before you travel you can guarantee your spot!
Insider tip: A 1-day pass (24h) or a 2-day pass (48h) for a panoramic tour through Madrid on the Red hop-on hop-off tourist bus is included in the Madrid card.
Spend the best Christmas with your kids
Visiting Madrid with your kids for Christmas is a fantastic choice! That time of year just has a special vibe, and the city is buzzing with so much to do for you and the little ones.
It’s not just about Christmas Day either: you’ll find tons of awesome activities in the days before and after it. The whole city feels festive, and with Christmas still in the air, it’s like the magic is dialed up even more.
- Definitely hit up the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium. This place is a must-visit for any football fan. Take the ‘Bernabéu Tour’ and check out the most iconic spots in the stadium, it’s football heaven!
- If your family loves a bit of thrill, head over to Parque de Atracciones. With 50 different rides and attractions spread across five themed zones, there’s something fun for everyone, no matter their age.
- Make a stop at the Royal Palace to soak up all its grandeur. It’s an impressive place for sure, and with a skip-the-line ticket, you can dive straight into a guided tour of this magnificent residence.
- The Zoo Aquarium Madrid is another great pick. It’s a zoo and an aquarium rolled into one, with over 330 animal species. It’s one of Europe’s biggest, and your kids will love it.
- Retiro Park is perfect for letting your little adventurers run wild. There are beautiful gardens and sparkling lakes all around, so it’s ideal for a relaxed afternoon outdoors.
- For some all-out excitement, Warner Bros. Park Madrid is where you want to be. It’s like a little slice of America in Europe, with all your favorite characters and some seriously fun rides. The kids will be talking about it for ages!
Eat grapes at Puerta del Sol on New Year’s Eve
One of the most typical Christmas traditions in Spain is the eating of grapes on New Year’s Eve.
When the clock is hits midnight, thousands of Spaniards across the country eat 12 grapes over the course of 36 seconds (that’s 3 seconds per chime!). Each grape represents a month of the new year. This tradition is supposed to bring good luck to those who participate in it.
New Year’s Eve in Madrid is one of those things you simply have to experience at least once in your lifetime.
So if you plan to be in Madrid on December 31, you can stop by Puerta del Sol to join thousands of people to countdown to the New Year and eat your 12 grapes.
Alternatively, you can have a look at other ideas on how to spend New Year’s Eve in Madrid.
Join a private Madrid photography tour
Why not give the gift of an authentic experience in a new city this Christmas?
This private Madrid photography workshop is available every day so you’re sure to find the perfect date, at the perfect time, for you!
During this unique 2-hour workshop, your host and photography expert will show you all the tips & tricks for you to create the best Madrid street photography.
He’ll take you through the streets of the city, discovering Madrid through photography, getting a better understanding of your camera and returning home with amazing images that will be lifetime memories. All of these, of course, while having lots of fun and enjoying yourself!
We all know that the best way to really experience a city is to explore it with local experts, and this photography workshop provides you with exactly that!
Enjoy one of Madrid’s ice skating rinks
Madrid is a wonderful place to take part in a spot of ice skating. So whether you’re a pro skater or look more like Bambi on ice, it’s always fun to spend time with your friends and family as you make your way around the rink.
You can enjoy skating in the following rinks located in:
- Plaza España (Nov 25 – Jan 11; open Monday to Friday from 12:00 to 22:00, Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 22:00, December 24, 31 and January 5 from 12:00 to 18:00). The Plaza de España once again hosts an outdoor natural ice rink of 450 m² within the enclosure called La Navideña, a project that includes a craft fair and first class gastronomic stalls.
- Palacio de Cibeles (Dec 13 – Jan 5; open from 11:20 to 20:50, December 15 to 19 from 16:20 to 20:50, December 24 and 31 from 11:20 to 17:20, December 25 and January 1 from 17:20 to 20:50). During the Christmas season, the Galería de Cristal of the emblematic modernist building hosts an indoor rink. You’ll skate under a very suggestive glass vault, so this is one of the most popular rinks.
- Plaza Colón (Nov 29 – Jan 6; check the opening times). The space in the center of the square pays homage to the world champion skater Javier Fernández. The rink is huge and next to it you will find a DJ set, a merry-go-round and a small Christmas market.
- Matadero (Dec 5 – Jan 6; Monday to Friday from 16:00 to 21:00, Saturday, Sunday and December 22 to January 6 from 11:00 to 21:30; closed December 24, 25, 31 and January 1). Here you’ll find a rink located under the warehouses of this cultural space on the banks of the Manzanares. In addition to practicing free skating, you can enjoy free exhibitions of individual figure skating, in pairs and synchronized, by the Madrid Federation of Winter Sports.
- Palacio de Hielo (check the opening times). This is the city’s Olympic rink. If skating is your passion, it’s worth getting away from the center since it’s located in a shopping center in the district of Hortaleza. For more information, have a look at the official website.
- Riyadh Air Metropolitan Stadium (Dec 22 to Jan 11; from 11:00 to 23:00). turns into a winter wonderland with Madrid On Ice! Boasting one of Europe’s biggest ice rinks (spanning 4,760 m²) it’s the ultimate holiday plan. You can glide through peaceful morning sessions or enjoy dazzling light shows during the afternoon and evening. It’s more than just skating: Santa’s Cabin is open from December 21-24, and the Three Kings take over from December 25 to January 5 for magical meet-and-greets. Kids can also enjoy fun attractions like bouncy castles and Santa’s train.
Choose the one you like the most! The schedules are quite extensive and the prices are affordable.
Most rinks also have bars, cafés or restaurants so you can warm up with some refreshments when you step off the ice.
Watch a flamenco show
When the nights begin to draw in and evenings can get a little chilly, there’s no better place to warm up than with a passionate flamenco show in the city. Madrid is famous for this fierce dance and the power and intensity of the dancers will be sure to get you hot under the collar!
Flamenco isn’t just a dance, it’s a whole way of expressing emotion and culture, and it’s always going to be a major part of what makes Spain, well, Spain!
Here in Madrid, there are several top spots where you can catch a live show and experience the magic firsthand. But how can you know where to go?
No problem! I’ve done all the work for you…
And I’ve selected the best flamenco show in Madrid. This show is often accompanied by dinner and drinks, so it’s a lovely way to spend an winter evening with friends and family.
Go shopping in the Salamanca neighborhood
Once you’ve wandered around the Christmas markets of Madrid you may have been bitten by the shopping bug… So why don’t you explore some of the high-street shops or designer boutiques the city has to offer?
If that’s the case, head to the Salamanca district to get your fashion fix.
You’ll love shopping in Madrid because of the availability, variety and sheer number of shops selling items from Spanish and international brands. They range from small boutiques that you can find only in Spain to stores with a global presence.
You’ve got all the big names like Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Dior, Chanel, Hermès, Versace, Bottega Veneta, Tiffany & Co., Jimmy Choo, Pomellato, Christian Louboutin… You name it! But what really makes the place stand out are the beautiful buildings these stores are in.
It’s got that classic European vibe, and you’ll also find more budget-friendly options like Muji, Mango, H&M, and, of course, Zara. And trust me, the side streets are a must! That’s where you’ll discover some cool indie shops and local boutiques.
Add to this the fact that store windows will aglow with colorful Christmas displays and you’ll be delighted!
Cycle the city on a bike tour
Madrid is a great city to explore on a bike and it’s even better in winter during a crisp sunny day. There are photo-worthy buildings, monuments and landscapes all over Madrid, which means that you’ll have plenty of opportunities to stop to catch your breath at the same time.
So if you’re looking to experience Madrid like a local, hop on two wheels and join one of the bike tours Madrid has to offer.
There are lots on offer and visitors can find it challenging to choose, that’s why I have selected my favorite bike tour in Madrid.
Accommodation in Madrid in Christmas
Finding accommodation in Madrid at Christmas can be a bit challenging, but it’s definitely possible if you plan ahead. Here’s what to expect:
Madrid is a popular destination during the holiday season, with festive markets, light displays, and cultural events attracting both locals and tourists. Because of this, many hotels, especially in central areas like Sol, Gran Vía, or near Plaza Mayor, fill up quickly.
As Christmas approaches, prices for hotels and short-term rentals tend to go up. You’ll likely see a spike in costs around the holidays, especially for accommodations close to major attractions or shopping districts.
If you’re planning to visit during Christmas, it’s a good idea to book your accommodation a few months in advance. This not only gives you more options but can also help you lock in a better price before the rates rise.
If you’re struggling to find something in the city center, consider staying in nearby neighborhoods like Malasaña, La Latina, or Chamberí. These areas are still close to the main attractions but may have more availability and slightly lower prices.
In summary, while it can be tricky, with early planning and a bit of flexibility, you can find great places to stay in Madrid during Christmas!
- Here you can search for hotels in Madrid for all budgets.
- Where do I start? Have a look at my selection of recommended hotels in Madrid.
This article is part of a complete tutorial about Christmas in Madrid where you can read all the information you need to enjoy the best Christmas holidays in Madrid.
Here is a complete summary of all the guide:
1. Spend an unforgettable Christmas in Madrid
2. 11 things to do in Madrid for Christmas
3. 12 awesome things to do on New Year’s Eve in Madrid
4. How to celebrate Three Kings’ Day in Madrid
5. The best Christmas markets in Madrid
6. 10 unique Christmas present ideas from Madrid
7. My favorite 5 Spanish Christmas sweets in Madrid
8. Enjoy the Madrid Christmas lights walk
