A guide to visiting Madrid at Christmas
11/22/2022
As befits a European capital, Madrid dresses up in its finest every year to celebrate Christmas and see out the year.
At this time of year, the streets are filled with lights and a festive atmosphere, and large numbers of tourists visit the capital to do their Christmas shopping or simply soak up the festive spirit.
If you’re in Madrid over Christmas and looking for things to do and see, read on, because we’ve put together the ultimate guide to spending Christmas in Madrid: shopping, strolls under the festive lights and a New Year’s Eve dining experience you’ll never forget.
When do they switch on the Christmas lights in Madrid?
The festive season doesn’t officially begin until lights of every colour illuminate Madrid’s streets and squares. This year, Madrid’s Christmas lights will be switched on at 7 pm on 24 November and will remain lit until 6 January, Three Kings’ Day. Here are the times when you can enjoy the Christmas lights in Madrid:
- Sunday to Thursday – 6pm to midnight
- Fridays and Saturdays – 6pm to 1am
- 24 December and 5 January – 6 pm to 3 am
- 31 December – 6 pm to 6 am (all night)
This year, more than 230 locations across Madrid will be lit up with fairy lights, fir trees and a variety of other lights. Why not hop on the Christmas bus for a tour of central Madrid to see them for yourself?
What to see in Madrid at Christmas
Madrid is traditionally brimming with leisure, culture and entertainment in the final weeks of the year. Here are some of the most popular things to do in Madrid at Christmas.
- Plaza Mayor Christmas Market. Here you’ll find everything you need for the festive season, from decorations to unique gifts for your loved ones.
- Nativity scenes in Madrid. Join in the tradition and visit the nativity scenes on display at the Town Hall, Plaza de la Villa, Plaza de España, the Royal Palace and other buildings and squares around the city.
- Christmas shopping. Find the perfect gift for your siblings, parents, children or that special someone. Check out our article on shopping in central Madrid to find out which areas you shouldn’t miss.
- Every year, El Corte Inglés gets into the Christmas spirit with a fun musical show featuring animated figures. If you’re in Madrid with children, this is the perfect outing for the whole family.
- Ice skating. Make the most of the cold weather to enjoy this outdoor sport – a great way to have fun as a couple or with the little ones in Madrid. One of the largest ice rinks is set up in the Crystal Gallery at the Palacio de Cibeles.
- Hot chocolate with churros. Escape the cold in Madrid’s churrerías and enjoy the traditional combination of hot chocolate and churros. There’s no greater pleasure after a long afternoon’s shopping!
Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Hotel Único
You already know all the things you can do in Madrid over Christmas, but have you made plans for New Year’s Eve yet? We invite you to see out the year at Hotel Único Madrid, where we offer a luxurious experience that’s perfect for enjoying with your partner or friends.
Our RFXM restaurant offers a select menu personally designed by two-Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa. Enjoy a truly exceptional dining experience, starting with a delicious aperitif accompanied by live jazz, followed by a menu featuring caviar and the finest rice dishes, fish and meat. A menu that will delight you from start to finish, paired with the finest wines and champagnes from our cellar.
This is one of the few Michelin-starred restaurants in Madrid offering a special menu for New Year’s Eve, so don’t miss out! Click on this link to see all the details of the New Year’s Eve menu.
New Year’s Eve doesn’t end with dinner; afterwards, you can enjoy a New Year’s Eve party and the traditional New Year’s grapes, and carry on the celebrations with music from our DJ at The Bar.
Don’t wait any longer – book your New Year’s Eve dinner at our 5-star hotel in Madrid.
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