Looking for things to do in Madrid at Christmas 2024? Enjoy holiday cheer with festive lights, bustling markets, and seasonal treats. Whether you want to join in local traditions or just enjoy Madrid’s winter charm, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Download Your Free Guide: CHRISTMAS IN MADRID 2024
Christmas Lights Madrid 2024
Mark Your Calendars: This year’s turning on of the Christmas lights will take place on November 28 at 7pm in Puerta del Sol and will be on until January 5, 2025.
- Every year, the giant Gran Bola de Navidad (Big 3D Christmas Ornament), stands in front of the Metropolis building, on the corner of Gran Vía and Alcalá. It features 43,000 LED lights and the lights of the sphere will be programmed and synchronized with sound. Although some years it gets moved to Plaza de España in the Jardines de Sabatini. So, make sure to stop by both locations. While your in the area, try seeing a captivating flamenco show, like the highly rated “Emociones” live performance.
- Puerta de Sol. On November 28, 2024, Madrid will illuminate its Christmas lights, marking the official start of the holiday season. The main celebration takes place in Puerta de Sol, where a massive Christmas tree lights up the heart of the square. Each year, thousands gather to experience this magical moment together, kicking off the festivities in true Madrid style.
- Paseo del Prado. Here, you’ll find La Gran Menina Luminosa, a stunning light sculpture inspired by one of the iconic figures from painter Velázquez’s most famous works. This towering statue is crafted entirely from lights, bringing a modern, luminous twist to a classic masterpiece.
- Calle de Jorge Juan – Experience the magic of Christmas in Madrid’s Salamanca neighbourhood. It boasts beautifully decorated streets, late-night shopping, traditional Spanish cuisine, seasonal treats, and various entertainment options. Other must-see streets are Calle Velázquez and Calle Serrano.
- Plaza Colón – Where you can admire the giant 10-meter-high 3D manger made out of 20.000 light bulbs.
- Retiro Park in Madrid becomes a winter wonderland during the Christmas season with beautiful lights, creating a festive atmosphere. If you have time, we recommend renting a rowing boat on the lake. It costs 6€ (or 8€ on weekends)/boat and is a really fun group activity in any season. For an extra fun activity, try a Retiro Park Segway Tour.
Europe Winter Clothing Essentials
Christmas Markets Madrid 2024
Mark your calendars for the upcoming Christmas Markets in 2024! While these events will probably run until January 5th, the official start dates are still to be announced for some of these. Until then, here are last year’s dates for reference. Stay tuned!
- La Navideña – From 23 November 2024 to 6 January 2025. Open Monday to Friday from 12:00 to 22:00, and on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10:00. This market features 40 craft and product stalls, as well as food stalls like San Ginés, famous for churros & chocolate. Enjoy a 450m² ice rink with real ice and plenty of entertainment. There’s also an Alpine restaurant, which will start taking reservations soon.
- Plaza Mayor Madrid Christmas Market (Madrid´s oldest Christmas market) open from 28 November to 31 December 2024 from 10:00 to 21:00 (Sunday to Thursday) and from 10:00 to 22:00 on Fridays, Saturdays and Holidays. Enjoy 104 red huts selling decorations, prank items, manger figurines, and more.
- Mercadillo de Navidad El Corte Inglés returns in Nuevos Ministerios. It will open from November 16 to January 5, 2025. It will be open Monday to Sunday from 12:00 to 22:00. The best Christmas market in Madrid to get food. The food is prepared by renowned chefs, with many gourmet food trucks and stalls. You can even buy quality ornaments and send a letter to Santa here!
- Plaza de Colón Christmas Market and Ice Rink from 24 November 2024 – 7 January 2025. There will be an 800m2 ice rink, stalls, a manger and a carousel. The ice rink tickets cost 8€ without any extras like gloves (2€) and aid for kids (4€).
3 DAYS CHRISTMAS IN MADRID BUDGET TRAVEL ITINERARY
Looking for help with your Madrid trip planning?
Our 3 days in Madrid Christmas Budget Travel Itinerary was designed to make exploring the city easy and affordable. We’ve planned out three full days of activities, showing you how to get around using the metro, with routes included, or how long it takes to walk, and a daily budget breakdown so you know exactly what you’ll be spending. You’ll also get access to all the links to travel resources you need, and the best part? A custom Google Maps map with all the spots pinned for you to follow along stress-free.
Madrid Christmas 2024 Ice Skating Rinks
Christmas Market Ice Skating Rinks:
- The Plaza de Colón “Javier Fernandez” (800m2). At Christmas it houses an ice rink, with a Christmas tree in the middle, where you can enjoy an afternoon of ice skating, mulled wine and incredible city views with the whole family. From 24 November to 7 January 2025.
- The La Navideña Plaza de España ice rink (450 m2) is one of the most popular attractions in Madrid during the Christmas season. It will be running from 23 November 2024 to 7 January 2025. With its large ice rink surrounded by Christmas lights and festive music, it is the perfect place to enjoy with friends and family. They sell a variety of food and drink stalls to enjoy while watching others skate.
- Parque De La Vaguada offers a magical experience during the Christmas festivities, with an outdoor ice rink, Christmas decorations, live music and food and drink stalls.
- Mágicas Navidades Torrejón de Ardoz is once again coming to Madrid for the 15th of November 2024 to the 6th of January 2025. A park that turns into a magical Christmas wonderland filled with rides, entertainment, food stalls, an ice rink, and more. Where? You can find this at the Recinto Ferial in Torrejón de Ardoz right next to the train station.
Other Ice Skating Rinks during Christmas:
- Manantial de los Sueños at 6€/30 minutes in the Real Botanical Garden Alfonso XIII depending on the time slot you choose from 16h to 22h. They also offer different entry tickets and prices with VIP options and extra perks.
- At Christmas Plaza del Cibeles (300m2) houses an ice rink where you can enjoy an afternoon of ice skating and stunning city views with the whole family, from 16 December to 8 January 2025.
- Plaza Juan Goytisolo in Madrid is a public space in front of the Reina Sofía Museum. In winter, it becomes an outdoor ice rink.
- Rosewood Villa Magna hotel in Madrid offers luxurious amenities and festive holiday decor during the Christmas season. TBC.
- Salvador Allende Park in Madrid is famous for its beautiful ice skating rink, one of the most popular attractions during the New Year. The park has a magical atmosphere with twinkling lights and Christmas music that make the ice skating experience unforgettable.
- The Matadero open air ice rink will be open from the 29th of November until the 9th of January 2025 and more than 750 m2. It’s located 2 minutes walk from Legazpi metro station. You can purchase your tickets at www.entradas.com.
Christmas in Madrid – Beautiful Hotel Decorations & More
Bless Hotel Madrid
An Igloo experience at Bless Hotel Madrid! Step into a cozy winter wonderland with an après-ski vibe straight from Aspen. Enjoy dinner under the stars, featuring delicious raclettes and fondues. This unique experience in Madrid offers an exclusive atmosphere perfect for a memorable night out.
Four Seasons Hotel Madrid
Located close to the Sevilla metro station, is known for its beautiful Christmas decorations. The lobby boasts a magnificent Christmas tree, garlands, wreaths, and holiday-themed touches throughout the hotel. However, the main event is the facade, featuring a 25m tall display. Guests can enjoy holiday-themed cocktails or a classic Spanish Vermouth and special menus in the hotel’s restaurants.
Mandarin Oriental Ritz
During the holiday season, the Mandarin Oriental Ritz hotel in Madrid in Paseo del Prado is beautiful, with stunning Christmas decorations, towering trees, twinkling lights, and sparkling ornaments. They offer glamorous Christmas dinners or brunches for anything between 165€ & 850€ depending on the meal.
Wellington Hotel & Spa Madrid
A 3 min walk from Retiro Park, feels warm and inviting during the holidays. Its grand lobby features a towering Christmas tree, sparkling lights, and classic decorations. Guests can sip hot cocoa or mulled wine in the cozy lounge area. The beautiful decor adds a special touch to the season. Every Sunday, they host The Wellington Brunch, an elegant afternoon tea from 12:30 to 16:00. It’s 80€ per person.
Riu Hotel Plaza España Madrid
Standing over the Plaza de España Christmas market, is an emblematic place at Christmas due to its spectacular decoration. Christmas lights and decorations are present throughout the hotel, including the lobby, restaurant and rooms. If you aren’t afraid of heights, head upstairs for a festive cocktail and cross the glass bridge, it’s a crowd pleaser.
Hotel Regina
Also opposite the Four Seasons, transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, with stunning Christmas decor in the lobby and guest rooms. Festive touches include a towering Christmas tree, wreaths, garlands, and the hotel’s restaurants and bars also offer special menus and cocktails featuring seasonal flavors.
Rosewood Villa Magna
Located in Paseo de la Castellana, in the sophisticated area of Salamanca Madrid, is a luxurious hotel that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season.
We also recommend these spots!
Galleria Canalejas
Opposite the spectacular Four Seasons building, is a high-end shopping center with stunning architecture. During the holidays, it’s beautifully decorated with festive lights, garlands, and wreaths. A massive Christmas tree stands proudly at the center. If you’re feeling hungry, head next door to MAD Gourmets. It’s an underground food market with over 20 restaurants and stalls. You’ll find everything from an Aperol Spritz stand to signature pizzas and Spanish dishes.
Casino de Madrid
Right next door to Hotel Regina, from the grand entrance to the restaurant and bar areas, the entire building is adorned with beautiful decorations. The main lobby features a towering Christmas tree surrounded by smaller trees and wreaths. The menu also includes special holiday treats and drinks, creating a festive atmosphere.
Restaurants and Cafes: Holiday Decorations for Christmas in Madrid 2024
- Salon des Fleurs with its eight corners each offering an unique experience where you can enjoy your favourite hot drinks and cakes.
- Restaurantes Salvador Bachiller All the Salvador Bachiller restaurants have amazing decor, especially at Christmas, but our favourite is the Salvador Bachiller located in C. de Velázquez, 24. While you are there, and explore Calle Velázquez and the other streets of Salamanca. The storefronts are beautifully decorated with sophisticated Christmas decor.
- Café Oriente Madrid is a popular place in the historic center of Madrid with elegant decoration and a cozy atmosphere from where, you can enjoy stunning views of the Royal Palace and Plaza de Oriente.
- The El Corte Ingles in Castellana has a beautiful atrium café decorated beautifully during Christmas.
- Lhardy is a historic restaurant in Madrid, Spain, established in 1839 by French chef Emilio Huguenin. that offers traditional Spanish cuisine with luxurious décor, including marble floors, crystal chandeliers, and ornate mirrors, creates a time-traveling ambiance.
- Restaurante Ultramarinos Quintín. Here you can eat the most decadent and rich chocolate con churros. They are a inventive Mediterranean restaurant. They serve breakfast, cocktails & a deli, in a revamped grocery store.
- Bar Manero Madrid in Claudio Coello is a popular and cozy bar located in the upscale Salamanca district of Madrid. I highly recommend their vermut and patatas bravas.
- Robuchon restaurant Madrid is an elegant dining destination in the heart of the city, offering authentic French cuisine and a blend of modern and classic design in its decor.
- ZapCoffee. Drink some great coffee while looking over the entire Puerta del Sol.
Madrid Nativity Scenes (Belenes)
Belén Palacio de Cibeles
Dates: From December 1st to January 5th
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Belén Napolitano – Palacio Real
Dates: From December 1st to January 6th
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
The Madrid History Museum
Dates: From December 1st to January 5th
Opening Times: Tuesday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Location: Museo de Historia de Madrid
Christmas Market, Nuevos Ministerios
Dates: December 1st to December 23rd
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Plaza Mayor
Dates: From November 26th to January 6th
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Belén Casa de Correos – Puerta del Sol
Dates: From December 1st to January 6th
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Almudena Cathedral
Dates: From December 1st to January 6th
Opening Times: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Belén Viviente Buitrago de Lozoya
Dates: December 14th and 15th
Opening Times: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Madrid Christmas Events 2024
Cabalgata de Reyes 2025
Tickets available from December 16 at www.navidadmadrid.com and at the Matadero Ticket Office from December 23 to January 3, from 3:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Carrera El Corte Inglés PAPÁ NOEL (Santa Claus´Race) Madrid 2024
La Carrera de Papa Noel is an annual event in Madrid. This year it is on the 22nd of December 2024 at 10h30 in Circuito Papa Noel, where participants race through the city streets dressed as Santa Claus. The 2024 event will take runners through iconic landmarks and is open to participants of all abilities. It’s a fun and festive way to celebrate Christmas and bring people together from around the world.
Circo (circus) on Ice Madrid 2024
Circo on Ice 2 Madrid will be held at CARPA CIRCO ALEGRÍA from 31 October to 26 January 2025 adjacent to Palacio de Hielo. You can book your tickets for Circo on Ice Madrid here.
Circlassica Gran Circo Mundial
Circlassica Gran Circo Mundial buy your tickets here.
El Bosque Encantado
Visit their website here. Where? Camino de Marañones, 217
28680 San Martín de Valdeiglesias.
Sueño de Navidad (The dream of Christmas) – Videomapping
For yet another year, the Madrid City Council will host the spectacular Mapping 3D. Un sueño de Navidad at Palacio Cibeles in Madrid. Watch in awe as the Palacio de Cibeles transforms into a stunning canvas for a spectacular 3D Christmas video (1o minutes liong). This enchanting display will bring the holiday spirit to life right before your very eyes. The duration is 10 minutes. Specific dates TBC.
Naturaleza Encendida at PARQUE ENRIQUE TIERNO GALVÁN
Mark Your Calendars: Naturaleza Encendida Madrid 2023/24 comes to Parque Enrique Tierno Galván from November 21st to January 21st for this year’s show (closed on the 24th and 31st of Dec). The estimated runtime for this breathtaking experience is 45 minutes. Tickets for this are available from the 4th of November and run out quite quickly.
Just a heads up – the event is taking place outdoors, so make sure you dress warmly. Madrid can get quite chilly this time of year!
Cortylandia Madrid 2024
Cortylandia, a musical show featuring animated figures, is a popular Christmas tradition in Madrid. Located on the outside of the El Corte Inglés shopping centre on Maestro Victoria street, the show runs from mid-November until January 5th. Performances last aprox 15 minutes, which during families and children can sing along to popula Christmas songs.
Nativity Scene (Belén)
The Nativity Scene in the Palacio de Cibeles is created by the unique figures by the Belenista master: José Luis Mayo Lebrija. With over 200 handcrafted figures, each of which boasts lifelike expressions, postures, and clothing movements, this scene is truly breathtaking.
Autobús de la Navidad – Tour de Luces
Capture the best views and images of Madrid’s enchanting Christmas atmosphere on the top floor of the Christmas Bus for a duration of 40 minutes. Book your tickets at Navidad en Madrid from 7.20€ (places are limited). Departures daily from 18:00 to 22:00.
The tour departs from the tourist bus stop on Calle Alfonso XII nº 52, behind the Royal Botanical Garden. Be punctual as the bus cannot wait for you. If you’re late, you can board the following bus, but you may have to sit on the lower floor with less visibility.
This year the Christmas bus operates from November 24 to January 4 (with the exception of December 24th and December 31st).
Harry Potter in Madrid: Harry Potter Exihibition in Madrid
In Madrid until the 6th of January. Discover iconic locations such as the Grand Dining Hall, the Gryffindor common room, among others! Immerse yourself in the magical world with an interactive experience that makes you feel as if you are truly wandering through Hogwarts’ hallways.
Where? In Espacio Ibercaja Delicias, Paseo de las Delicias. Access the exhibition by the Museo el Ferrocarril. If you’re taking the metro, get off at Delicias on line 3.
Christmas Food in Madrid 2024
Where to get Churros con Chocolate
- Founded in 1890, San Gines is a café located in the heart of Madrid that is famous for its churros and hot chocolate (chocolate caliente) opened until the early hours of the morning. They have a stall in the Plaza de España Christmas market and the Mercado Navidad El Corte Inglés in Nuevos Ministerios.
- Valor is a well known brand in Spain that have been manufacturing chocolate since 1881. They have dedicated more than 130 years to making good quality chocolate. You can visit their Chocolate Museum to learn about where the cocoa they use comes from, and how their chocolate making process has evolved through the centuries. You can also enjoy their products in one of their chocolate shops.
- Restaurante Ultramarinos Quintín serves high quality churros with rich chocolate in a beautifully decorated setting for Christmas.
Christmas Turrón
If you have ever visited Spain during Christmas, you would have seen turrón sold almost everywhere. Turrón is a southern European nougat confection. It is typically made of honey, sugar, and egg whites with toasted almonds, and usually shaped into rectangular bars. Torronsvicens takes it to another level with their mojito or cheesecake flavours, not to mention the beautiful decor in their stores! Definitely worth a visit. Oh and I don´t forget to sample a few flavours while you are there.
Theme Parks Madrid Christmas 2024
- The Manantial de los Sueños El Origen de Navidad – the most incredible Christmas event suitable for the whole family is coming to Madrid…! Where? Alfonso XIII Royal Botanical Garden Real Jardin Botánico Alfonso XIII (Ciudad Universitaria de Madrid). Purchase your entry tickets for both shows, scheduled to run from November 1st, 2024 to January 6th, 2025.
- Warner Park Madrid is a popular theme park that transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. Visitors can enjoy holiday-themed shows, spectacular light shows, and other exciting attractions for all ages, making it an unforgettable way to celebrate the holidays with family and friends.
- Navidalia Getafe is back this year after its success last year, and there will lots of improvements and new features. This park will open on November 18, 2024 and close on January 6, 2025. The park boasts a real ice skating rink. Where? Recinto Ferial in Avenida de las Ciudades 41, Getafe Madrid.
- Mágicas Navidades Torrejón de Ardoz is once again coming to Madrid for the 15th of November to the 6th of January 2025. A park that turns into a magical Christmas wonderland filled with rides, entertainment, food stalls, an ice rink, and more. Where? You can find this at the Recinto Ferial in Torrejón de Ardoz right next to the train station.
Christmas Shopping in Madrid 2024
- Primark in Gran Vía offers a wide selection of gifts for all tastes and budgets. From clothing and accessories to home goods and Christmas decorations, it’s the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping. All this at affordable prices for any budget.
- Experience the Extraordinary Christmas Decor at Las Rozas Village. Las Rozas Village is renowned for their stunning Christmas decorations, which are sure to dazzle and delight. If you’re looking for luxury items at a discounted price, this is the perfect shopping destination. Treat yourself to some amazing deals on high-end brands such as Ted Baker and Burberry.
- Zara Home Plaza España in Madrid is a popular spot to buy Christmas decorations, gifts and home items.
- Living in London has the most adorable British products to decorate your home during the festive season.
- Madrid offers a wide range of shops and boutiques, from luxury brands to handmade crafts. The city is beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and colorful decorations, creating a festive atmosphere. El Corte Inglés, a famous department store, is a must-visit for Chritmas shoppers.
- Madrid is home to many shopping districts, but some of my personal favourites are calle de Serrano/Salamanca barrio. This area is known for its luxury high-end stores, making it a shopping paradise. Plan your visit during the “rebajas” sales which take place twice a year. For the best deals, go right after Reyes Magos on the 6th of January.
Reyes Magos Madrid Christmas 2024
Embark on a scenic train ride to meet the Three Kings while enjoying stunning views of Casa de Campo, Monte del Pilar, and Pinar de las Rozas. The ride includes fun activities like games, face painting, and workshops led by Santa’s helpers. Dates TBA.
Hotels in Madrid to Stay at This Christmas
If you’re feeling splurgy this Christmas!
- The Ritz Mandarin Oriental Located next to the Museo del Prado. The closest metro station is Banco de España.
- The Four Seasons Madrid This is the hotel with the iconic Christmas tree facade, right in the heart of Madrid. The closest metro stations are Sevilla and Sol.
- Gran Hotel Inglés Madrid Located in El Barrio de las Letras, just a 5-10 min walk from Sol metro station (where you can enjoy the turning on of the Christmas lights on the 28th of November at 19h).
- Gran Meliá Fénix This hotel is right next to the Plaza de Colón Christmas Market. It is located very close to Retiro Park and Puerta de Alcalá (10 min walk away).
- Riu Plaza España Madrid This hotel is the iconic tall building towering over the Plaza de España Christmas Market called: La Navideña. The closest metro stop is Plaza de España.
- Rosewood Villa Magna The closest metro stop is Serrano.
- Wellington Hotel & Spa Madrid The closest metro stop is Retiro.
Some not so splurgy..
- Only You Boutique Hotel Madrid Located between Plaza de Colón (Colón metro station), Chueca metro station and Fuente de Cibeles (Banco de España metro station). Just a 5 min walk from the Plaza de Colón Christmas Market.
- The Dear Hotel located on the corner of Gran Vía and Calle de los Reyes (with a view of the Plaza de España Christmas Market “La Navideña”). The closest metro station is Plaza de España, or Santo Domingo which is 4 mins away by foot.
- NH Collection Hotels Madrid The closest metro station is Gran Vía.
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Madrid Prado The closest metro station is Estación del Arte.
- Barceló Torre de Madrid The closest metro station is Plaza de España.
- Hotel Atlántico The closest metro station are Callao or Gran Vía.
- Petit Palace Plaza del Carmen The closest metro station are Gran Vía, Sol or Callao.
- Emperador The closest metro station is Santo Domingo.
- Sercotel Gran Hotel Conde Duque The closest metro station is San Bernardo.
Budget-friendly hotels in Madrid
- Sercotel Alcalá 611 The closest metro station is Canillejas.
- Eurostars i-hotel Madrid The closest metro station is Colonia Jardín.
- Exe Getafe The closest metro station is Getafe Central.
- NH Alcorcón The closest metro station is Parque Oeste.
- Be Casa – San Sebastian de los Reyes The closest metro station is Hospital Infanta Sofía.
- Eurostars Madrid Foro The closest train station is the Tres Cantos Cercanías Renfe line. Keep in mind, this hotel is accessible, but not on the metro line.
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Alternatively check out this post Christmas in Paris if you´re planning to visit this Spanish capital during the festive season. Soon we will be posting a blog post on our Top 10 Destinations to experience Christmas in Europe.
If you’re planning to visit Paris this autumn, we highly recommend checking out Best Places To Go in Autumn in Europe.
Day Trips From Madrid
Christmas in Toledo Spain Day Trip From Madrid
A day trip to Toledo’s Christmas market in Plaza Consistorio is a festive outing the whole family will love. Located near Toledo’s City Hall (Ayuntamiento), this market offers a delightful carousel for the kids and plenty of stalls selling unique gifts and delicious holiday treats, including vino caliente (mulled wine) for the adults.
When in Toledo, be sure to try mazapan (marzipan), a sweet almond treat, and venado (venison), often served in stews. Other local favourites include pisto (vegetable ratatouille) and sopa de ajo (garlic soup).
The trip from Madrid’s Atocha Station to Toledo is quick and easy, with a direct train taking aprox 35 minutes. Once you arrive at Toledo Station, it’s a 20-minute walk up to the main square, though taxis are also available for a faster trip. For those who prefer the bus, catch one from Madrid’s Plaza Elíptica; a 50 minute ride and drops you off close to Toledo’s historic centre.
Christmas in San Lorenzo de El Escorial
San Lorenzo de El Escorial offers a lovely Christmas experience, highlighted for the last 25 years by the Belen Monumental, a massive nativity scene. This beautiful display, which has received the title of Interés Turístico Regional (Spain’s regional governments award this title to recognize culturally, historically, or artistically significant events, festivals, or attractions) will be open to visitors from December 8 to January 7.
If you have time, we highly recommend booking a ticket to go inside the Monastery. It is truly beautiful, especially the Basilica.
We recommend trying roast lamb from local restaurants, which is known for its tender meat and rich flavors. You should also taste churros with hot chocolate, a popular treat.
To reach San Lorenzo de El Escorial, you can take a train from Chamartín station in Madrid, which takes about 55 minutes to reach El Escorial. From the station, it takes approximately 30 minutes to walk uphill to the town center. Alternatively, you can take Bus Line 1 from Estación El Escorial, which is just a 1-minute walk from the train station. This bus ride takes about 4 minutes and makes only two stops, making it a quick and convenient option.
Christmas in Segovia
In Segovia at Christmas, visitors can enjoy the beautiful Plaza Mayor adorned with festive lights and decorations, making it a perfect spot for holiday photos. The city also hosts a charming Christmas market where you can find local crafts and delicious treats like the traditional Segovian punch. Don’t miss the stunning Alcázar of Segovia, which looks enchanting in winter, especially if there’s snow. Additionally, the impressive Cathedral of Segovia, known for its beautiful architecture and stained glass windows, is a must-see during this festive season.
To get to Segovia, take a 30 min train ride from Madrid’s Chamartín station, to reach the nearby town of Segovia-Guiomar. From there, you need to take bus line 11, which runs regularly and will take you into the city center in about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer driving, it takes about an hour from Madrid (around 90 km) via the AP-61 highway. Buses are also available from various locations in Madrid, with a travel time of around 1.5 hours, making Segovia an accessible day trip for those looking to experience the Christmas spirit in a picturesque setting.
Dishes we recommend you try are roast suckling pig and fried suckling pig. Additionally, you can enjoy local favourites like judiones (large beans), Castilian soup, lamb, and, of course, churros.
Christmas in Avila
Avila is a charming destination during Christmas, featuring a delightful Christmas market in Plaza del Mercado Chico, where you can find local crafts and festive foods. The city’s ancient walls are beautifully illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere, and you can admire unique nativity scenes displayed in churches and public squares.
Dishes we recommend you try in Ávila are beef steak, known for its high quality, and yemas de Ávila, a sweet treat made from egg yolks and sugar. You can also enjoy sopa de ajo (garlic soup) and marmitako, a fish stew. Don’t forget to stop by a local bakery to taste the delicious natillas, a creamy dessert.
To travel from Madrid to Ávila, you can take a train from Madrid-Chamartín station, which goes to El Escorial. From El Escorial, you’ll need to switch trains to reach Ávila. The entire journey takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Madrid South Bus Station to Ávila Bus Station, which takes approximately 1h30. If you prefer driving, the distance is about 109 km, typically taking 1.5 hours via the A-6 and AP-6 motorways.
Christmas in Chinchon
Chinchón, about 45 minutes from Madrid, offers a unique twist on Christmas festivities. The main square, Plaza Mayor, transforms into a festive spot with a large Christmas tree set right in the centre, traditionally the town’s bullring.
The dishes we recommend you try in Chinchón are migas (fried breadcrumbs with garlic), roast lamb, and cured meats. The town is also famous for its anise liqueur, which is a local specialty.
Reach Chinchón by car or take Bus 337 from Madrid’s Conde de Casal station to Chinchón bus station. It is located on Calle de Los Huertos, just a short walk from the town’s main square, Plaza Mayor.
Go sledding in the snow in Cercedilla Madrid
Explore the beautiful Sierra de Guadarrama in Cercedilla, a municipality in the northwest of the Community of Madrid. Despite being over 50 kilometers from Madrid center, the stunning snowy landscape during colder months is worth the journey.
For a quick look at everything you need to know, check out our YouTube video—it’s the perfect summary of all the info here!
Christmas in Madrid YouTube Video
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