Imagine yourself in the illuminated streets of Madrid, a small bag of grapes in one hand, a glass of cava in the other, your eyes fixed on the famous clock at Puerta del Sol… Midnight is approaching, the bells ring one by one, and everyone (locals and visitors alike) tries to swallow one grape at each chime. Yes, this is New Year’s Eve in Madrid.
This is how Madrid celebrates Nochevieja, with a unique intensity. Between ancestral traditions, festive energy, refined gastronomy and all-night parties, Madrid promises a vibrant and unforgettable New Year’s Eve.
Here is our complete 2025 guide, packed with tips and practical advice to help you experience the very best of December 31st in Madrid.
Before New Year’s Eve: how to organize your stay
How many days should you stay?
Ideally, plan 3 to 5 days around New Year (from December 29 to January 2) to:
- Explore the city at a relaxed pace
- Enjoy the night of December 31 in the best conditions
- Recover properly on January 1
Bonus: Why not combine your stay with a day trip to Toledo, Segovia & Ávila?
Weather & what to pack
Madrid in December is cold but pleasant. Temperatures range from 2°C in the morning to around 10°C during the day. Sunshine is frequent. Pack:
- A warm coat
- Scarf, gloves
- Comfortable shoes
- A festive outfit for New Year’s Eve
Getting around during the holidays
- Metro: fast and reliable (closes at 1:30 a.m. on Dec 31, reopens at 7 a.m. on Jan 1)
- Tourist travel card: unlimited access to metro & buses
- On December 31, Sol station closes at 9 p.m. Access to Puerta del Sol is controlled with strict security checks
- After midnight, pre-book a taxi, Uber or Cabify
Our article How to get around Madrid is everything you need to know about public transport.
Prepare for your arrival at the airport by booking private transport from Madrid Airport to your hotel. More information here.
And if you really need to go further afield, outside the city for example, you can also hire a car.
Where to stay for New Year’s Eve?
- Casa Almagro by The Pavilions Hotels & Resorts: Ideal for a chic and stylish stay. It is located a few metres from Plaza Colón and has a small garden and a bar with a terrace. Find out more here.
- Room Mate Collection Alba: Central and stylish, perfect for exploring the city as it is close to the San Miguel market, Puerta del Sol and the Reina Sofia museum. Book your accommodation here.
- Hotel Madrid Plaza de España: Part of the Melia chain, this hotel is located near Gran Vía, 100 metres from Plaza de España and a 10-minute walk from Puerta del Sol and Plaza del Callao. Check availability here.
- Hotel Riu Plaza España (panoramic view + direct access to the 360° rooftop)
Book early! The best accommodation is fully booked from November onwards.
>>> Check out our selection of accommodation by neighbourhood. You’ll find the perfect hotel for your holiday in Madrid. Read our dedicated article here.
New Year’s traditions in Madrid
You can’t celebrate New Year’s Eve in Madrid without knowing about its traditions. They are funny, bring good luck and are 100% Spanish.
The 12 lucky grapes : At midnight sharp, the bell rings 12 times. With each chime, you have to swallow a grape.
- If you succeed, you’ll have a prosperous year.
- If you don’t… it doesn’t matter, but you’ll have had a good laugh!
Our little tip: buy your grapes at the supermarket, some sell ready-made ‘Nochevieja special’ punnets with 12 seedless, peeled grapes.
Red underwear : Another essential ritual is to wear red on 31 December. Briefs, knickers, socks… everyone chooses their own lucky charm. This symbolises love and passion for the coming year.
New Year’s lentils : On 1 January, many families eat a dish of lentils, a symbol of abundance and wealth. Some restaurants even add them to their New Year’s Day menu.
Throwing a glass of water out the window : In some families, a glass of water is thrown out the window after midnight to ward off bad energy.
These traditions add a local and magical touch to the evening. Now that you know about them, you’ll be ready to celebrate like a true Madrileño!
Your day-by-day itinerary
Finally, here is a ready-made itinerary that will allow you to enjoy the end-of-year holidays without any hassle.
Day 1: First steps in Madrid & culinary immersion
Morning:
- Stroll through the historic centre : Plaza Mayor, the narrow streets of La Latina, Christmas markets
- Stop at a churrería for a well-deserved hot chocolate and churros (find out where to eat the best churros in Madrid)
Afternoon:
- Enjoy tapas at the Mercado de San Miguel (the beating heart of local cuisine)
- Fancy some art? Head to the Reina Sofía Museum or the street art of Lavapiés.
Evening:
- Flamenco show at Cardamomo or Torres Bermejas (book early!)
- Dinner in a vaulted cellar at Bodega de los Secretos (a secret spot that I love)
I love flamenco, so to help you choose, read our dedicated article: Where to see a flamenco show?
Day 2: Culture, stunning views & local atmosphere
Morning:
- The Prado Museum is a real treasure trove for art lovers. Take the time to admire the works of Spanish masters such as Velázquez, Goya and El Greco. Booking your tickets here to avoid the queues.
- Or take a stroll through the Las Letras neighbourhood. Explore this literary district with its charming narrow streets. Stop off at a bookshop or a historic café such as Café Central.
Afternoon:
- Take a break in a quiet park such as Madrid Río or Quinta de los Molinos. The latter is less well known. It is ideal for a peaceful stroll away from the crowds. At this time of year, its winter landscapes are magnificent.
Evening:
There are several options available to you. Either dinner or drinks on a rooftop:
- Inhala Terraza, Azotea del Círculo, Nice To Meet You
- Riu 360° Rooftop for an incredible 360° view of Madrid
End the evening with a cocktail at Salmon Guru, voted one of the best bars in the world. Read our article on the most beautiful rooftops in Madrid to find out more.
Day 3: La Nochevieja: celebrations, traditions and unforgettable memories
Morning:
- Shopping at the Mercado de Motores (if it’s the weekend). A vintage market housed in a former railway station, brimming with original finds. And if you want to shop in the city centre, you can easily do so on Gran Via or in the chic Salamanca district.
- Local snack in a quiet café
Afternoon:
- Hammam Al Ándalus: Treat yourself to a moment of relaxation in this place inspired by traditional Arab baths. Relax in a traditional hammam in the heart of Madrid. Book your treatment here.
- Cooking workshop: paella & sangria with tasting
Evening (3 options):
- Option 1 : Puerta del Sol
Prepare your 12 lucky grapes (seedless!). You can buy them in a supermarket. Arrive around 8 p.m. to get through security. At midnight: the magic begins (bells, party favours, jubilant crowds)
- Option 2: Dinner & elegant party
Book a special New Year’s Eve menu at venues such as Florida Retiro (show + Michelin-starred dinner), Quinto Elemento (futuristic design & haute cuisine), Tatel, Chambao or Metro Madrid (trendy cuisine & refined setting). Budget: between €150 and €300 depending on the package.
- Option 3: XXL dance party
Don’t miss the Universiparty @ La Fabrik: 6 rooms, 1,000 m² of dance floor, shuttle buses included. Several clubs organise wild, memorable parties. Here are the ones we recommend: Opium Madrid, Teatro Magno, SkyObserver (13th floor of the Hotel Puerta América). Remember to book your tickets online as soon as possible.
Day 4: Gentle start & Madrid brunch
Morning:
- Enjoy a hearty brunch to recharge your batteries after a night of partying. You can try traditional Spanish dishes or opt for a more American-style brunch with pancakes, waffles and bacon. Discover our top brunch spots in Madrid. They are exceptional.
- Relaxation option: stroll through Parque del Oeste or take the cable car to Casa de Campo
Afternoon:
- Turrón workshop or chocolate tasting: Learn how to make these typical festive treats with a local artisan. For churros lovers, we’ve also put together a list of the best churrerías in Madrid in this article.
- Last-minute souvenir shopping in artisan boutiques
Evening:
- Tapas crawl in La Latina. Visit several tapas bars in the neighbourhood for a friendly and authentic evening.
- Or closing dinner at DiverXO (3-star experience, advance booking required!)
Where to dine on New Year’s Eve in Madrid?
Madrid is full of festive venues to suit all tastes. Here is an updated and detailed selection for 2025.
Gourmet & elegant restaurants
Bule Bule: Located in the heart of Madrid, it is renowned for its vibrant evenings and glamorous atmosphere. On the menu: delicious cuisine with international influences, sophisticated cocktails, cabaret shows and retro-chic décor.
With family or teenagers
Enigmatium: New Year’s Eve Dinner is an original and unique show that will surprise the whole family. The action takes place in a restaurant whose address is only revealed at the last minute. The menus are suitable for both children and adults. Click here to find out more.
Rooftops & bars for dinner + celebrations
- Radio Rooftop (ME Hotel): Elegant evening with views of Madrid.
- Riu 360° Rooftop: Panoramic views, very popular for special occasions.
- SkyObserver (Hotel Puerta América): Evening on the 13th floor, cocktails and spectacular views.
Bars and nightclubs to party until dawn
Madrid never sleeps, especially on 31 December. Here are some places to dance until sunrise:
- Teatro Magno: Former theatre converted into a glamorous club, with shows and DJs.
- Opium Madrid: Chic club with international DJs and two different musical atmospheres.
- SkyObserver – Hotel Puerta América: A more elegant atmosphere on the 13th floor with panoramic views.
- La Fabrik: Mega nightclub on the outskirts of the city. On the 31st, it hosts the legendary Universiparty (six atmospheres, international DJs, shuttle buses included). Expect to pay around €35 (entry + two drinks).
- Bule Bule: Chic cabaret + dance floor, retro-chic and festive atmosphere.
A few practical tips:
- Buy your tickets in advance from November onwards.
- The metro closes at 1.30am. Plan your return journey by taxi/private hire vehicle.
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