Madrid transforms during the holidays. Lights spill across every street, plazas turn into gathering places, and the city feels warmer than ever… even in the cold. Whether you want classic festivities, cultural deep dives, or the best seasonal treats, here are ten ways to experience Christmas in Madrid like a local.
1. Be dazzled by Madrid’s Christmas lights
Madrid takes holiday lighting seriously, and each neighborhood has its own style, from the elegant displays in Salamanca to the colorful designs around Gran Vía and Plaza Mayor.
Why you’ll love it: The entire city feels like one big celebration, and every walk becomes a little cinematic.
Pro tip: Hop on the NaviLuz bus for a guided route through the most iconic light displays.
2. Explore the festive holiday markets
Madrid’s markets offer crafts, food, and festive traditions. The most famous is the Plaza Mayor Christmas Market, filled with ornaments, nativity figurines, handmade toys, and quirky Spanish holiday items.
Why you’ll love it: It is the most atmospheric way to see how madrileños shop for the season.
Pro tip: Visit after sunset to see the square fully lit and lively.
3. Ice skate in Madrid’s seasonal rinks
Throughout December and early January, outdoor ice rinks appear across the city. Check out the ones in Plaza de España, Matadero Madrid, and Plaza de Colón.
Why you’ll love it: The settings are festive, fun, and perfect for an active winter afternoon.
Pro tip: Evening sessions are quieter and come with the best views of the lights.
4. Visit the nativity scenes (belenes)
Madrid hosts dozens of intricate nativity scenes, from traditional clay figurines to modern artistic interpretations. Popular ones include the City Hall Nativity (inside Cibeles) and the Royal Palace Nativity.
Why you’ll love it: Spanish belenes are beautifully detailed, and each one tells the Christmas story in a different artistic style.
Pro tip: Be sure to reserve your ticket beforehand (free!) here.
5. Spend an evening at a Christmas concert
From classical performances at the Teatro Real to choral concerts in churches around the city, December is full of music.
Why you’ll love it: It’s a peaceful break from the bustle and a lovely way to soak in the spirit of the season.
Pro tip: Look for free concerts offered by local conservatories.
6. Enjoy Madrid’s holiday flavors
Christmas in Madrid comes with its own set of must-try treats.
- Turrón: A sweet nougat bar made from almonds, honey, and sugar.
- Polvorones: Crumbly shortbread cookies that melt instantly.
- Roscón de Reyes: A ring-shaped sweet bread topped with candied fruit, eaten on January 6.
Why you’ll love it: These flavors define the Spanish holiday table and are perfect for gifting too.
Pro tip: Try artisanal versions from historic bakeries like Casa Mira or La Mallorquina.
7. Visit Cortylandia
Located outside El Corte Inglés in Preciados, Cortylandia is a beloved animated display with moving characters and short musical shows. It’s playful, nostalgic, and a deep-rooted holiday tradition in the city.
Why you’ll love it: Even adults find themselves humming along. It is a uniquely Madrilenian holiday experience.
Pro tip: Go on weekdays to avoid the family crowds.
8. Stroll through El Retiro and Casa de Campo
Winter gives Madrid’s parks a quieter, more reflective feel. Retiro’s crisp mornings and Casa de Campo’s wide trails offer a peaceful escape from the city buzz.
Why you’ll love it: It is a calm contrast to the lights and crowds and a space to take in Madrid’s winter beauty.
Pro tip: Grab a warm drink from a nearby café and walk at golden hour.
9. Warm up with a cup of hot chocolate
Madrid’s hot chocolate is famously thick, almost pudding-like, and perfect with churros. San Ginés is the city’s most iconic stop.
Why you’ll love it: Nothing feels more “Madrid in winter” than dipping fresh churros into rich chocolate.
Pro tip: Avoid peak evening hours unless you want to wait in a long line.
10. Watch the Three Kings parade
On January 5, Madrid celebrates one of Spain’s most cherished traditions: the Cabalgata de Reyes, or Three Kings Parade. Based on the biblical story of the Magi, Los Reyes Magos (Melchor, Gaspar, and Baltasar) are the figures who traditionally bring children their Christmas gifts, not Santa Claus.
The parade marks their symbolic arrival in the city. Expect floats, dancers, music, and thousands of families celebrating together.
Why you’ll love it: It is joyful, theatrical, and deeply meaningful in Spanish culture, even if you didn’t grow up with the tradition.
Pro tip: Head to Paseo de la Castellana for the best views, and try fresh Roscón de Reyes the next morning to complete the experience.
Get in the holiday spirit
Every corner has something festive to offer, and every plan, big or small, gives you a glimpse into how madrileños celebrate together. So grab your scarf, step outside, and let Madrid show you why winter here feels unforgettable. If you make even a few of these experiences part of your holiday season, you’ll carry the spirit of Madrid with you long after the lights go out.
Experiencing Madrid’s traditions firsthand is part of what makes studying at IE University unique, where the city itself becomes an extension of your learning, perspective, and personal growth.
