Christmas markets in Madrid for 2025

When Madrid puts on its festive lights, the city transforms. From the illuminated façades along Gran Vía to the colorful stalls in Plaza Mayor and the traditional nativity scenes… Christmas in Madrid is something everyone should experience at least once in their life. Here is our 2025 guide to the best Christmas markets in Madrid, with ideas for outings and practical tips to help you enjoy this magical season to the fullest.

Vivre Madrid Tip : Save this guide, it will be updated as soon as official dates and new features are announced.

The must-see Christmas markets in Madrid

Plaza Mayor : the historic Christmas market

• Where: Plaza Mayor, Centro
• When: 27 November – 31 December

The most iconic Christmas market in Madrid, with its charming red stalls and golden lights. You’ll find:

• Nativity figurines (Belenes)
• Natural and artificial Christmas trees
• Garlands and decorations
• Festive hats, costumes and accessories

This is Madrid’s most traditional market, perfect for soaking up the city’s holiday spirit.

Nearby ideas: Warm churros and hot chocolate at San Ginés, then a stroll to Puerta del Sol to admire the lights.

Plaza de España : artisans market & ice rink

• Where: Plaza de España, Madrid city center
• When: 27 November – 11 January

A favorite among families, featuring:

• Local artisans and creative stalls (great for unique gifts)
• A large open-air ice rink
• Merry-go-rounds and activities for kids

We recommend visiting on a weekday at dusk for magical ambiance and fewer crowds.

Plaza de Colón, crafts, gastronomy & family fun

• Where: Plaza de Colón
• When: 27 November – 6 January

Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, cotton candy stands, rides, workshops and shows. Stalls feature handicrafts and gourmet treats, ideal for a festive outing.

Don’t miss the ice rink. You can rent skates and buy protective gloves on-site.

El Corte Inglés Castellana & Cortylandia

• Where: Paseo de la Castellana, Nuevos Ministerios
• When: 13 November – 5 January

A must-visit for those who want to combine holiday shopping with Christmas magic.

Expect:

• Decorative artisan stalls
• Christmas ornaments and local treats
• The most popular food-trucks in Madrid (delicious but not cheap!)
• Creative workshops and activities for children

The illuminated façade of El Corte Inglés adds a magical touch.

Mercadillo del Gato : chic shopping & designers

• Where: The Westin Palace Hotel, CentroCentro
• When: 12 December – 6 January

A refined, elegant Christmas market, held in prestigious venues such as The Westin Palace and Casino Gran Vía.

You’ll find:

• Designer crafts
• Jewelry
• Clothing
• Home décor
• Exclusive gourmet products

A perfect destination for authentic, high-end gifts in a sophisticated holiday atmosphere.

Feria Mercado de Artesanía : the big arts & crafts fair

• Where: Paseo de Recoletos
• When: 1–30 December 2025

This large regional craft fair is the perfect place to find artisanal gifts. Around 130 workshops showcase the best of Madrid’s craftsmanship:

• Ceramics
• Jewelry
• Leather goods
• Engravers and goldsmiths
• Textile artisans
• Toy makers
• Artistic glasswork

Organized by the AMOA Association, this market is a true celebration of authentic local craft.

French solidarity Christmas market (Entraide solidaire française)

Held on 14 December from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Eurobuilding, this warm and family-friendly event features:

• French gourmet products (champagne, foie gras, oysters)
• Decorations & jewelry
• Children’s workshops and family activities

A beloved annual event for Madrid’s French community.

Check out the programme of festivities for spending Christmas in Madrid

Practical Tips & Insider Advice

• Go during the week in late afternoon for fewer crowds
• Prefer metro over car (traffic is intense)
• Bring cash, not all stalls accept cards
• Dress warmly, Madrid evenings can be surprisingly chilly
• Photo tip: markets look their best during blue hour (just after sunset)

Interactive map of Christmas markets

Enjoy this free tour of Madrid at night and discover its most representative streets, monuments and landmarks at nighttime when the city is beautifully lit up. All details and reservations available here.

More Christmas content

• Christmas in Madrid 2025 : Magical family holidays, festive fun & winter breaks with kids
• New Year’s Eve in Madrid 2025 : our complete guide
• Where to stay in Madrid: best hotels by neighborhood (2026 Guide)

Christmas in Madrid is all about tradition, lights, Spanish hospitality and that special holiday charm we love so much. Whether you’re here for a few days or all season long, we hope this guide helps you make the most of the festive magic.

Maybe we’ll even bump into each other at the Plaza Mayor market, hot chocolate in hand