Christmas in Madrid
Your complete guide to spend Christmas in Madrid
Madrid is a vibrant city that becomes even livelier around Christmas time. Every year, the streets of the capital are illuminated with thousands of lights and get ready to host the festivities and traditions typical of the Christmas season. There are also markets, concerts, and nativity scenes on display. Of course, it all starts with the magical Christmas lights. Read on to find out when they are lit and all the things you can do in Madrid during this season!
When are the Christmas lights switched on?
The Christmas lights switch-on is one of the most important events of the holiday season, as it marks the start and end of the festive period. There is no greater delight than strolling under the lights in the centre of Madrid . In fact, you will forget about the cold as you watch the beautiful illuminations!
Usually, the Christmas lights in Madrid are switched on the last Friday of November and are switched off on the 6th of January, after Epiphany. The switch-on time is usually from 6pm until midnight, and is extended on special days such as December 24th, New Year’s Eve, and January 5th.
What to do in Madrid over Christmas
In addition to the lights, there are many activities to enjoy the festive atmosphere with your family, partner, or friends. Here are some of the best things to do if you visit the capital these days:
Christmas Markets
Every year between November and December, Madrid’s Plaza Mayor welcomes a huge Christmas market with stalls selling all kinds of Christmas-related items such as nativity scene pieces, Christmas trees, toys, and decorations. Make the most of your stay in the city to visit it and take home a Christmas souvenir, or simply stroll around and enjoy the atmosphere.
Other markets in Madrid that you can visit are the Madrid Río market, with a carousel for children, and the one in the renovated Plaza España, where you can also skate on an ice rink. The El Corte Inglés Castellana Christmas Market and the Paseo de Recoletos Craft Market are other open-air markets worth visiting.
Circo Price
The Teatro Circo Price organises a special show for the holidays that has become a Christmas classic in Madrid. It is a perfect plan to go with the little ones, who will enjoy the acrobats, clowns, and dancers in a show for all audiences.
Naturaleza Encendida
Discover the secrets of nature in a unique way this Christmas at the Royal Botanical Garden of Madrid. From 14 November 2022 to 15 January 2023 the doors will open to the Naturaleza Encendida experience, a magical walk among lights that will enlighten visitors about the fascinating world of fungi. Find out all the details on the official website of the event.
Visiting the Nativity Scenes
One of the typical traditions of Christmas in Spain is the exhibition of the nativity scene, a representation of the birth of Jesus that each family, institution, town, or city arranges as they wish. You can visit some of them during Christmas in Madrid: in the Town Hall, Plaza de la Villa, the History Museum, or the Royal Palace, among many others. What about going on a route and visiting them all?
Christmas shopping
There’s no better place to do your Christmas shopping than in this city, a huge city with all kinds of shops, where you’re sure to find the perfect gift. You can browse around El Rastro flea market or head to Gran Vía where all the big shops and brands are located. Books, clothes, toys, perfumes, personalised gifts… whatever it is, you’ll find it in the city centre of Madrid.
Your accommodation for Christmas in Madrid
These are just some of the things to do in Madrid during these special days, but there are many more waiting to be discovered. Come and visit the city at Christmas time and stay in our SmartRental tourist rental apartments, your best option for a quiet and comfortable stay in the heart of Madrid.
We have fully equipped flats in the best areas of the Spanish capital: Gran Vía, Atocha, Chueca, Puerta del Sol and La Latina. Stay in an apartment in Madrid centre and wander around the street markets and Christmas lights.
Check availability and book your stay in Madrid this Christmas!