Places of Interest During Christmas in Madrid
“The Christmas season is coming, and Christmas in Madrid is one of the most enjoyable months of the year. The city is busier than ever in December, and when I say busy, I mean an unparalleled festive atmosphere. Many tourists, both Spanish and foreigners, come to Madrid to enjoy the magical Christmas lights, colors, music, markets, and much more, creating a unique experience in the capital of Spain.
Between November and January, every year Madrid lights up with color, music, and festive spirit as it prepares for the Christmas season. Our Christmas tour in Madrid is the perfect way to explore the city during this magical time of year.
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and is done on an electric bike. During this ride, we’ll cycle through the most beautifully lit streets, past iconic monuments and landmarks that transform into a magical setting. Our guide will not only show you the illuminated city but will also share stories and anecdotes that will make you fall in love with Madrid even more.
Halfway through the tour, we’ll enjoy some delicious churros with chocolate — the ultimate winter treat in Madrid.
Excited? Book your Christmas tour here: www.rentandroll.es
Practical Information about the Electric Bike Christmas Lights Tour:
Start time: Our Christmas electric bike tour in English starts at 6:00 PM.
Tour price: €35 per person on an electric bike.
Meeting point: Near Retiro Park at Calle Felipe IV 10, Madrid – [Google Maps].
Tour duration: Approximately 2 hours.
Places of Interest During Christmas in Madrid
They’re often found on the streets, in shop windows, churches, and public spaces. The Madrid city council even has a website where you can find exactly where these Nativity scenes are located. Some of the most beautiful include the one at Palacio de Cibeles (Nov 25 to Jan 5), the Plaza Mayor Nativity scene (Nov 26 to Dec 31), and the illuminated Nativity scene in Plaza de España.
There are many festive stalls where you can buy all kinds of charming gifts, like the fun, decorated hats and headwear you’ll see all over the city during this season. You’ll also find a beautiful Christmas tree and lots of decorations.
As you wander through the Christmas market, you’ll smell roasted chestnuts and sweet potatoes in the air. You can enjoy a warm glass of mulled wine at one of the stalls or indulge in some delicious churros with chocolate! People come from far and wide to enjoy the festive atmosphere!
December 22 – Spanish Christmas Lottery Draw
The Spanish Christmas Lottery (Lotería de Navidad) has become a true national tradition. Everyone buys at least one ticket hoping for a bit of luck. You can purchase a number almost anywhere in the city – at lottery shops, but also in bars, restaurants, clubs, and social groups.
Christmas Eve – December 24
Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) is celebrated with a family dinner. People often sing traditional Christmas songs called “villancicos” and enjoy sweets like turrón, roasted chestnuts, and sweet potatoes. Many families then attend the midnight mass, called “La Misa del Gallo”, held at 12:00 AM. Churches are beautifully decorated with impressive Christmas trees and Nativity scenes.
Christmas Day – December 25
On Christmas Day, families gather to eat and drink together. People also enjoy festive activities like visiting Nativity scenes or going ice skating.
December 28 – Day of the Holy Innocents
This is Spain’s version of April Fool’s Day. It’s traditional to play pranks on friends and family – like sticking a paper cut-out on someone’s back. Classic jokes include changing someone’s watch time or making them think they’ve won the lottery!
New Year’s Eve – December 31
Each year there’s a big celebration in Puerta del Sol. Thousands gather by the clock tower of the Royal Post Office (Real Casa de Correos). Everyone brings 12 grapes, and with each chime at midnight, you eat one grape. Each grape represents good luck for one month of the coming year.
If you want to attend, go early – space is limited and it gets very crowded. Glass bottles are not allowed in the Puerta del Sol area for safety reasons.
Three Kings’ Day – January 6
Spanish children receive their Christmas presents on January 6th from the Three Wise Men (Reyes Magos). There are many parades throughout the city where the kings throw candies to the crowds. In short, not only is Christmas magical in Madrid – the entire winter season is full of wonder.
Turrón and polvorones are the most popular Christmas sweets in Madrid. Turrón is a type of nougat made with honey, sugar, egg whites, and almonds, among other ingredients. During the holiday season, many variations of this treat are created. It’s also a great souvenir to take home if you’ve been in Madrid.
Polvorones are also delicious — they’re compact, crumbly sweets that turn into powder or crumbs as you eat them.
Churros are always popular in Spain, but even more so during the Christmas season! It’s cold outside, and dipping churros in hot chocolate brings an extra feeling of warmth. In my opinion, the best place to enjoy them is at San Ginés.
Roscón de Reyes: In Madrid, there is a tradition called Roscón de Reyes, associated with the Three Kings’ Day celebration. It’s a ring-shaped cake filled with candied fruits and plenty of whipped cream. Inside the cake, there’s a hidden fava bean and a small figurine of a king — the person who finds the bean has to pay for the cake, and the person who finds the king is said to have good luck.
Cocido Madrileño is a traditional stew made with chickpeas. It’s a hearty dish prepared with meat and vegetables. It’s usually served in courses — first a hot soup with vegetables, then a large platter of meat (often quite rich). This is the perfect winter dish to enjoy in Madrid during the holidays.