Discover the Christmas markets on your vacation in Madrid
As winter approaches, the city of Madrid is transformed into an enchanting Christmas scene , attracting thousands of visitors every year. Although snow is not a common phenomenon in the Spanish capital, its festive atmosphere is reflected in a rich tradition of Christmas markets and illuminations throughout the capital. If you’re planning to spend your festive season in Madrid, here’s a list of the best Christmas markets not to be missed.
Visit Madrid's Christmas markets and enjoy a unique experience
There are a large number of Christmas markets in the capital, each with its own speciality and atmosphere. If you’re coming to Madrid for the festive season, we recommend a visit to the capital’s biggest market, the Plaza Mayor Christmas Market. You’ll find not only souvenirs, but also delicious Spanish delicacies.
The famous Plaza Mayor Christmas market
The Plaza Mayor, one of Madrid’s most emblematic squares, is also the venue for many events, including one of the city’s biggest and oldest (over 100 years old) Christmas markets. From November 28 to December 31, its bright red stalls and spiky roofs line up to offer visitors a wide variety of Christmas items.
With over a century of history, the market is famous for the diversity of its products, which range from garlands and Christmas trees to jokes and decorative flowers. The atmosphere is enhanced by the lighting of Christmas lights, creating a unique environment.
You’ll find plenty of exhibitors selling santons for your crib, as well as complete cribs with mechanisms to create a river or a working mill.
Address: Plaza Mayor madrid, Pl. Mayor, Centro, 28012 Madrid
Plaza Espana Christmas Market
More recent than the Plaza Mayor market, the Plaza Espana market is located on the newly renovated Plaza de España. This market is famous for its 40 or so stalls dedicated to Christmas decorations and crafts. Visitors can find everything from traditional decorations to unique pieces of local art, making it the ideal place for those looking for original and special gifts.
If you go to the plaza espana Christmas market, we recommend a hot chocolate on the rooftop of the Riu Plaza, where you’ll find a glass footbridge perched more than 30 meters above the ground.
Address: Plaza España
Plaza de Colon Christmas Market
The Plaza de Colón market is another festive meeting point. Located close to an ice rink and merry-go-round, this market is ideal for families. Ideally located, we recommend a visit after a tour of the Prado Museum or Madrid’s Archaeological Museum.
To make the most of your stay in Madrid during the festive season, we recommend booking a Tuk Tuk tour of Madrid to admire the Christmas lights and discover Madrid’s most beautiful monuments.
Address: Plaza de Colon, Plaza de Colón 28004
The magic of Christmas in Madrid: an unforgettable experience
Visiting Madrid’s Christmas markets is an experience that goes beyond shopping. It’s an exploration of history, culture and tradition that intertwine to create a truly magical atmosphere. Spain’s capital, with its vibrant city life and rich cultural heritage, offers the perfect setting for a memorable Christmas vacation.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, these Christmas markets offer a space where everyone can find something special and take home a little piece of Madrid’s Christmas magic.
