The best Christmas plans in Madrid
Christmas in Madrid has a special magic: illuminated streets, the smell of chestnuts, carols ringing in every corner and thousands of plans for all tastes. If you are looking for what to do this year, we leave you a selection of the best plans that you can not miss.
Christmas Markets
Christmas markets are a must-see classic. From local crafts to decorations, toys and typical sweets, strolling among their stalls is to enter directly into the Christmas spirit.
A must-have:
Plaza Mayor: the most famous and traditional of Madrid.
Christmas Market in Plaza de España: more modern, with local gastronomy and handicraft stalls.
Mercadillo del Gato: ideal for finding original and designer gifts.
Christmas Lights
When night falls, Madrid shines like few other cities. The Christmas lights have become one of the most anticipated attractions.
Areas not to be missed:
Gran Vía
Serrano Street
Salamanca neighborhood
Canalejas Square
Paseo del Prado
Alcalá Street
You can walk, take a bus tour or even a bike tour: you will enjoy the city like never before!
Sweet Space Museum
If you are looking for a different plan, visual, fun and full of magic, Sweet Space is a must this Christmas. This museum transforms its tour into an interactive advent calendar in which each room will become a magical experience full of games, surprises and fun.
Perfect for:
Families with children
Couples who want an original plan
Lovers of art, photography and sweets
For a cool moment ideal for networking
If you want something different, vibrant and full of Christmas fantasy, Sweet Space is your ideal plan.
Ice rinks
Every year, Madrid opens several ice rinks where you can skate surrounded by Christmas decorations.
The most popular:
Cibeles Palace
Madrid Slaughterhouse
Plaza Colón
It's a perfect plan for an afternoon of laughter, (controlled) falls, photos and a nice cup of hot chocolate afterwards.
Cortylandia
For many Madrilenians, Christmas does not begin until they hear "Cooortylandia, cortylandiaaa...". This musical and luminous show at the Corte Inglés de Preciados is a tradition for children and adults alike.
Ideal for a family afternoon, accompanied by chocolate with churros in one of the locals around.
Nativity Scenes
Madrid is full of nativity scenes of all sizes and styles during December. They are perfect for a cultural, quiet and very Christmasy plan.
We recommend:
Nativity Scene of the Madrid City Hall
Cibeles Nativity Scene
Nativity Scene of the Real Casa de Correos
Royal Palace Nativity Scene
Nougat Museum
If you love nougat, this is your place. The Museo del Turrón offers a tour through the history, elaboration and varieties of this emblematic sweet.
It is a very entertaining plan and perfect to learn about artisan nougat.
Candlelight Concerts
Candlelights are intimate concerts where music is combined with thousands of candles to create a magical atmosphere. At Christmas, repertoires include carols, Christmas soundtracks and emotional classical pieces.
They are ideal for:
A romantic plan
Give an experience as a gift
Living Christmas in an elegant and different way
Chocolatería San Ginés
No Christmas in Madrid is complete without a visit to San Ginés. Founded in 1894, this chocolate shop is famous for its freshly made churros and porras, accompanied by its iconic thick chocolate. During December it is usually full of atmosphere, lights and families enjoying themselves after seeing the lights or strolling through the center.
Why it is a top Christmas plan:
It is a Madrilenian tradition
It is perfect to warm up after seeing the lights or Cortylandia.
It is an inexpensive, delicious and very Christmas-like plan.
It is ideal for photos and for both day and night.
Now you can enjoy them at Sweet Space Museum!
Madrid has a Christmas for everyone
Lights, market, hot chocolate, immersive art, concerts and tradition... Madrid offers a Christmas full of magic and unforgettable plans. You just have to choose your favorite (or do them all...).