Discover the best things to do in Madrid, Spain at Christmas 2025. From sparkling lights and festive markets to cozy cafés, rooftop experiences, and unique holiday events, this guide covers everything you need to make your Christmas in Madrid magical and memorable.
Perfect 3-Day Christmas in Madrid Itinerary
We’ve put together a 3-day Christmas in Madrid plan that’s filled with festive things to do that you cannot miss. Everything is mapped out for you, including the best routes, travel times, and helpful links, this way everything you need is in one place. If planning your trip feels a bit overwhelming, this will make things much easier and take a lot of the stress away.
Madrid at Christmas feels magical, cozy and full of light. The whole city transforms with festive markets, incredible decorations, special events, and winter food that makes the season unforgettable. Whether you’re here for the lights, the markets, or the family plans, this guide gives you the full 2025 update.
New for 2025
The big Christmas lights switch on will take place on Saturday, November 22 at Plaza de Cibeles for the first time. F1 driver Carlos Sainz will be the special guest who turns on the lights, followed by a firework show.
Below you’ll find updated info for 2025 including shops, cafés, markets, rooftops, events, lights, and everything you can do in Madrid this Christmas season.
Christmas Lights Madrid 2025
Madrid is going bigger than ever this year with more than 13 million LED lights displayed across 240 locations in the city. You’ll see 126 glowing cherry trees, 13 giant Christmas trees, and over 7,000 low-energy light garlands.
The switch on event starts at 6pm on November 22 at Plaza de Cibeles, with the lights officially turning on around 7pm. Roads in the area will close, so arrive early if you want to see the fireworks and the atmosphere.
Lights Schedule:
• Sun to Thu: 6pm to midnight
• Fri & Sat: 6pm to 1am
• Special dates (Dec 24 and Jan 5): until 3am
Where To See The Best Lights
• Gran Vía
• Calle de Alcalá
• Plaza de Callao
• Salamanca area (Serrano, Velázquez)
• Puerta del Sol big tree
• Plaza Mayor
• Plaza de Oriente (Royal Palace)
• Chamberí
Special Highlights:
• Stranger Things lights at Postigo de San Martín
• Loewe’s giant green cat light display on Serrano 34
• Giant 12 meter LED nativity at Plaza de las Cortes
• School-designed lights around Plaza Mayor
• Illuminated stained-glass style displays at Retiro Park (Puerta de la Independencia)
• Huge Christmas trees at Ventas and in front of Metrópolis
• Giant wreath on Avenida de la Memoria
• El Corte Inglés La Castellana golden star facade
• Beautiful lighting at the Wellington Hotel near Retiro
Restaurants & Rooftops To Experience Christmas 2025
Bless Hotel Rooftop
What it is: Enjoy a cozy dinner in a heated igloo with handmade cheese fondues, traditional raclette, seasonal dishes like truffle snow risotto, clams in beurre blanc with Japanese air, plus signature cocktails. Igloos seat 1–6 people.
Where: Hotel Bless, Calle Velázquez 62
Details: Minimum spend €80 per person. Closed menus range €125–€175. Booking is by phone or email only.
Rosewood Villa Magna
What it is: Alpine Swiss Winter Wonderland vibes at the Alpino Lounge (Nov 27–Jan 25) for drinks or Alpino Chalet (Nov 27–Feb 15) for dinner. Menu includes fondue, raclette, veal Wiener schnitzel, onion soup, apple strudel, set menu or à la carte. Ice skating available for €12 per 1.5 hours (gloves required).
Where: Rosewood Villa Magna, Madrid
Salvador Bachiller Roscón
What it is: Try a twist on the classic roscón or enjoy one with coffee or tea for €15. Specialty coffee served in gingerbread house mugs (€12), Christmas sweets on gingerbread snowflake plates (€12), or Christmas croissant with coffee/tea on heart-shaped plate (€12).
San Ginés Roscón
What it is: San Ginés teamed up with Turris bakery to create two roscón versions: mini sourdough with chocolate cream filling and sugar shell, nuts, candied orange; and the same without chocolate. Available at Turris locations and San Ginés.
Shops & Coffee Shops To Visit At Christmas 2025
Ático Flores
What it is: Beautiful Christmas decor and flower shop with a secret café inside. Outside, there’s a big red mailbox for letters to Santa. The shop has different sections, each with a unique style: classic Christmas, fantasy cottage, circus animals, and more.
Where: C/ Caleruega (Metro: Pinar de Chamartín)
What to do: Explore the festive decor imported from European Christmas markets and enjoy a coffee or sweet treat surrounded by magical decorations.
Dates & Times: Open daily 8am–8pm (except Sundays)
Patio del Espejo – El Corte Inglés
What it is: Coffee shop inside Nuevos Ministerios El Corte Inglés with a huge Christmas tree, nutcrackers, and gingerbread houses.
Where: El Corte Inglés de La Castellana (Metro: Nuevos Ministerios)
What to do: Have a glass of champagne or a slice of cake while enjoying the stunning festive decor.
Dates & Times: Daily 10am–10pm (Sundays 11am–9pm)
Christmas Huts by El Corte Inglés
What it is: Charming rustic wooden huts in several locations selling El Corte Inglés Christmas decorations.
Where: Plaza de Callao (Metro: Callao) and Salamanca neighborhood (Metro: Serrano or Núñez de Balboa)
What to do: Browse the stunning decor and purchase gifts or ornaments for your home.
Dates & Times: Open daily 10am–10pm
Zara Home – Plaza de España
What it is: Zara Home on the top floor of the Zara store, with views over the Plaza de España Christmas market. Features a large Christmas tree, Santa mailboxes, and a moving toy train. Kids will love the special section with toys, ornaments, and festive outfits.
Where: Plaza de España 19 (Metro: Plaza de España)
What to do: Browse sophisticated Christmas decor and gift items for adults and children.
Dates & Times: Daily 10am–10pm (except Sundays)
Sally Hambleton Flower Shop
What it is: Flower shop transformed into a Christmas boutique for the holiday season with festive florals and decor.
Where: C/ Gabriel Lobo 10, Chamartín (Metro: Cruz del Rayo or República Argentina)
What to do: Shop for Christmas decor, gifts, or attend a flower workshop. Wreath workshop info: here.
Dates & Times: Weekdays 10am–7pm. Christmas shop open Nov 13 – Jan 5, 2026 (closed Dec 9–14 for workshops). During Nov 13 – Jan 5: Mon–Sat 11am–8pm.
Christmas Markets In Madrid 2025
Plaza Mayor
What it is: Madrid’s largest Christmas market with 104 red huts selling decorations, manger figurines, prank items, and more. Food is limited, but churros and hot chocolate are available nearby.
When: November 27 – December 31, 2025
Nuevos Ministerios
What it is: Hosted by El Corte Inglés, this market features a mix of festive stalls and a huge variety of food trucks. You’ll find churros, chocolate, oysters, champagne, Pollos Muñoz chicken, cheesecakes by Alex Cordobés, croquetas from La Cocreta, and Parisian steak frites from Café de Paris. Decor and gifts are also available.
When: November 13 – January 5, 2026
Plaza de España
What it is: Features an ice rink, food stalls, churros by San Ginés, handmade gift stalls, and panoramic views of the city (Riu Hotel). More details after visiting.
Plaza de Colón
What it is: Until January 6, highlights include the new Enchanted Forest with over 150 real pine trees (to be replanted after the holidays), Christmas market, classic carousel, Santa’s house, photo spots, food stands, large nativity scene, and the Aristopet Garden (pet-friendly area). Sustainable ice-skating rink available; entry fee goes to charity.
Where: Plaza Colón (Metro: Colón or Serrano)
Santiago Bernabéu
What it is: Turned into the “biggest snow globe in the world” with ice bumper cars, ice slides with pool floats, carousel, food stalls, workshops, and ice rink. From December 24–31, 10:30–22:30 in 4-hour slots. Tickets may be sold out.
Mercado del Gato
What it is: Pop-up market at Gran Vía 13 with over 60 stalls selling clothes, gourmet food, handcrafted items, makeup, jewelry, and accessories.
When: December 12 – January 6, 11:00–21:00
Feria de Artesanía (Craft Fair)
What it is: Over 170 stalls along Paseo de Recoletos from Cibeles to Plaza de Colón selling handcrafted gifts, toys, glass figurines, jewelry, and more.
When: December 1–30, 2025
Christmas Events In Madrid 2025
Cortylandia
What it is: Classic Christmas show on the facade of El Corte Inglés Preciados, running for its 46th year. Animated figures sing songs and Christmas carols, a free, family-friendly event.
Where: El Corte Inglés Preciados, Calle Maestro Victoria 6 (Metro: Sol, Callao, or Gran Vía)
When: Daily at 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 5pm, 6pm, 7pm, 8pm, 9pm. On Dec 24, 31, and Jan 5: 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 5pm, 6pm, 7pm. Closed Dec 25 and Jan 1.
Carrera Papá Noel
What it is: Fun Santa run for all ages on December 21 at 10am. Over 6,000 participants run dressed as Santa; kids under 13 dress as elves. Route passes iconic landmarks.
Where: Start: Circuito Papá Noel, Paseo del Prado corner Plaza Murillo 2. Pick up numbers and Santa outfits at El Corte Inglés Princesa, 7th floor, Sports section (Dec 18–20, 10am–10pm).
Three Kings Parade
What it is: El Día de los Reyes on January 6 celebrates the arrival of the Three Wise Men. The night before, cities host parades (“Cabalgatas”) with floats and sweets for the crowd.
Where: Plaza de San Juan de la Cruz (Gregorio Marañón), Plaza de Cibeles (Banco de España), Paseo de la Castellana (Rubén Darío), Paseo de Recoletos (Colón)
When: Evening of Jan 5 at 6:30pm (to be confirmed)
Video Mapping at Conde Duque
What it is: Immersive video-mapping show in the main courtyard created by José Valiña and Eyesberg studio, exploring the meaning of light at Christmas. Dec 23 features a concert by Madrid Male Voices Choir and soprano Sonia de Munck.
When: Dec 17: 21:00–23:00 (opening night), other days: 18:30–23:00. Free entry until space fills.
Naviluz Bus
What it is: Open-top bus tour of Madrid’s Christmas lights (Calle Alcalá, Gran Vía, Plaza Cánovas del Castillo). About 50 minutes. Runs late Nov–early Jan (except Dec 24, 31, and Three Kings night). Tickets online only.
El Manantial de los Sueños – Jardín Botánico
What it is: Christmas experience in the Royal Botanical Garden with lights, decorations, themed areas, circus-style shows, ice rink, Christmas market, and food stalls. Family-friendly and fun for adults.
Where: Real Jardín Botánico Alfonso XIII (Metro: Ciudad Universitaria)
When: Nov 27 – Jan 4, 2025
Mágicas Navidades – Torrejón de Ardoz
What it is: A magical Christmas park with rides, shows, market, Santa flying over on a sleigh, ice rink, life-size nativity, ice sculpture museum (theme: heroes and villains). VIP ticket €55 includes fast passes, front stage seats, parking; general entry €4.50; free for locals.
Where: Recinto Ferial, Torrejón de Ardoz (next to train station)
When: Until Jan 6, 2025
Belén – Nativity Scenes
Puerta del Sol: La Casa de Correos, 132 m², 500+ figurines, free entry, Nov 22 – Jan 6, 2026, 10am–10pm.
Retiro Park: 160+ moving figurines on 40 m² circular platform, plus glass cabinets with Italian nativity figurines. Free entry, Nov 22 – Jan 8, 2026, 11am–2pm and 5pm–8pm (closed Dec 25 and Jan 1).
Matadero Madrid – Christmas of Encounter & Belén Exhibits
What it is: Matadero Madrid becomes a festive cultural hub during the holidays with its Madrid, Christmas of Encounter programme. The space features creative installations, workshops, performances, ice rink, and seasonal exhibits celebrating Christmas stories and traditions, plus areas displaying handcrafted nativity scenes and festive art.
Where: Matadero Madrid, Plaza de Legazpi 8 (Metro: Legazpi)
What to do: Explore Christmas art and shows, visit ice rink and activity areas, and enjoy thematic installations that bring holiday stories to life.
Dates & Times: Dec 20, 2025 – Jan 4, 2026 (closed Dec 24, 25, 31 & Jan 1). Typical hours are 11:30am–9pm daily.
Final Tips For Enjoying Christmas In Madrid 2025
Madrid goes all out for Christmas 2025, with millions of lights, markets, events, and festive food around every corner. Whether you walk, take public transport, or hop on the Naviluz bus, the city sparkles from late November until early January.
Key Tips:
- Arrive early for big events like the Christmas lights switch-on and Three Kings Parade.
- Book popular experiences such as rooftop igloos, Naviluz bus, or ice skating in advance.
- Dress warmly—many activities are outdoors.
- Try seasonal treats at markets and specialty shops for the full festive experience.
- Check opening dates and times for markets, shops, and events, as some change over the holiday season.
With over 13 million lights, enchanting markets, cozy cafés, festive workshops, and unique events, Madrid is a magical destination this Christmas. Enjoy the season, explore, and make the most of everything this city has to offer!
Happy Holidays from Madrid!
Related reads you’ll love…
If you want to go even deeper with your planning, we’ve got a few posts that pair really well with this one. Before you do anything else, read our post on the exact steps we take when planning a Christmas market trip in Europe. You can check out the best apps you’ll actually use when visiting Europe, our guide to the top Christmas markets, a full list of things to do around Europe during the holidays, and our favourite tips for travelling Europe on a budget. Each one will help you plan smarter, save time, and make your trip feel a little easier.
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