Madrid Christmas Market 2025

Why Madrid Sparkles at Christmas

Madrid’s Christmas markets have a festive warmth to them that blends with the city’s unmistakable Spanish flair to create a truly spectacular Christmas atmosphere. Beautiful streets, like the iconic Gran Vía, undergo a full seasonal transformation with vibrant lights, decorations, and traditional nativity scenes (belénes).

Even today, locals remain deeply connected to the traditions that define the season. El Gordo, Spain’s famous Christmas lottery, unites the entire country as people eagerly await the results of ‘the fat one,’ hoping for the chance to be this year’s lucky winner and experience what many see as a Christmas miracle.

Another Spanish Christmas tradition is Nochebuena, a food-centered celebration on Christmas Eve. Families and friends gather to share regional dishes, accompanied by religious ceremonies that continue to play a significant role in the festivities.

No matter your background or where you come from, you’ll be warmly welcomed at the Fira de Navidads (Christmas markets) in Madrid. Although you might hear the term ‘fira’, it is in fact Catalan. Madridistas usually say ‘feria’ instead, which is the Spanish equivalent.

You’ll experience community, music, Spanish hospitality, and some of the tastiest plates from Madrid’s street food scene.

If you’re visiting Madrid for Christmas and plan to explore its many markets, this guide will give you everything you need to enjoy your trip. You can also join one of our Madrid food tours to gain deeper insight into the city’s culinary traditions while you’re here.

Madrid’s Top Christmas Markets

Visitors are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to Christmas markets in Madrid, but there are a few standout spots you simply can’t leave without experiencing.

The Plaza Mayor Market is, of course, the most iconic. As the oldest market in the city, it has earned a revered status over the years, and not just because of its history. With around 104 stalls offering ornaments, decorations, and small gifts, it provides plenty of winter inspiration for all.

The Mercado de San Miguel also has its share of festive charm in December. The already bustling food market transforms with seasonal touches, with vendors selling gourmet snacks and warm winter drinks like mulled wine, making it an inviting stop during the colder evenings.

Feria de Reyes (Plaza de España Market) will be returning again this year, bringing back its popular event along with an impressive 600 m² ice-skating rink. Its 40 stalls provide a mix of unique gift ideas and delicious food options, including classic treats such as chocolate and churros.

If you’re hoping to enjoy Three Kings celebrations, Plaza de España Market is also one of the best places to experience them firsthand.

A Taste of Madrid: Holiday Foods to Try

We all know that food is a major part of Christmas. In Madrid, it’s no different, as these holiday foods will likely be on every foodie’s must-try list.

Winter brings out the sweet tooth in all of us, and you’re going to find it hard to resist when you come across all the sugary snacks on offer at Madrid’s Christmas markets.

Tuck into some nutty turrón, a type of Mediterranean nougat, or some fruit-glazed roscones de reyes, which is a donut-shaped brioche bread. One more of Madrid’s holiday foods to watch out for is polvorones. These are buttery shortbread biscuits commonly eaten at Christmas.

If the cold is getting to you, you can always warm up with some fried churros with creamy chocolate or a sparkling glass of cava.

Don’t be afraid to approach the local vendors when out and about in the markets, as they’ll be able to give you recommendations on which homemade sweets and artisanal specialties to try from the region.

Discover Hidden Christmas Markets

After hitting some of the main markets, your Christmas shopping in Madrid doesn’t have to end there. We know some lesser-known, authentic, community-focused markets tucked away in the city’s smaller barrios that are well worth stopping by.

Interested in arts and crafts? Visiting Mercado de Motores is one of the best things to do in Madrid. It’s held at the city’s Railway Museum and is filled with vendors selling unique Christmas-themed antiques and artisan items.

Another hidden gem is the two-storey Cebada Market, where you can pick up some incredible handmade goods as well as a selection of foods.

Practical Tips for Visiting Madrid’s Christmas Markets

Most Christmas markets open every day of the week, but it’s better to visit on weekdays over weekends, as Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays can draw larger crowds.
If you travel to Madrid for the Christmas markets, make sure to use the city’s metro and bus network, as they offer convenient access.
Since the Christmas markets are held in winter, you’ll want to wear lots of layers to keep warm, as it can be chilly, particularly in the evenings.
While many vendors will accept debit/credit cards, it’s a good idea to withdraw some money just in case they don’t.
Madrid is very popular around Christmas time, with many tourists flying in for the markets, so book your accommodation well in advance. Otherwise, you risk overpaying or having to stay farther from the center.

Celebrate Christmas the Madrid Way

As if Christmas in Madrid couldn’t get any better, 2025’s celebrations are already shaping up to be the best yet. Don’t miss the chance to experience Madrid’s Christmas market this December.

Dive into the festive atmosphere, eat your way through the markets, and enjoy Spanish hospitality at its finest. It’s time to make Madrid your holiday destination this Christmas!