Madrid is a beautiful city with a lot to offer all year round. However, there’s something about Madrid at Christmas that makes it extra special.
The holiday season in Madrid is full of festive activities, delicious food, and stunning decorations. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Madrid at Christmas.
1. Visit the Christmas Markets
One of the best things to do in Madrid at Christmas is to visit its many Christmas markets. The markets are located all over the city and offer a great opportunity to experience the holiday spirit.
Some of the most popular markets include the Plaza Mayor market, which features traditional Christmas decorations and nativity scenes, and the Mercado de San Miguel market, which offers a wide variety of food and drink options.
2. Enjoy Delicious Food
Food is an important part of any holiday celebration, and Madrid is no exception. During the holiday season, you can find many traditional Spanish dishes that are only available at this time of year.
The most popular Christmas dish in Madrid is Roscón de Reyes, a sweet bread ring decorated with candied fruit that is traditionally eaten on January 6th. You can also try other traditional dishes such as turrón (nougat), polvorones (shortbread cookies), and marzipan.
3. Admire the Decorations
Madrid goes all out when it comes to decorating for Christmas. The entire city is covered in lights and decorations that create a magical atmosphere.
Some of the most impressive decorations can be found on Gran Vía and Calle Fuencarral, two main shopping streets in Madrid. The Puerta del Sol square also features a large Christmas tree and clock that counts down to midnight on New Year’s Eve.
4. See a Nativity Scene
Nativity scenes, or belenes, are an important part of Christmas in Spain. Many churches and public spaces in Madrid feature elaborate nativity scenes that depict the birth of Jesus.
One of the most impressive nativity scenes can be found at the Royal Palace, where a life-size scene is created every year. You can also visit the Plaza Mayor market to see a traditional nativity scene.
5. Attend a Concert or Show
Madrid is home to many theaters and concert venues that offer special shows during the holiday season. From ballet performances to Christmas-themed concerts, there’s something for everyone.
One popular event is the New Year’s Concert at the Teatro Real, which features classical music and opera performances. The Circo Price theater also offers a special Christmas show that combines acrobatics, music, and dance.
In conclusion, Madrid is a wonderful place to visit during the holiday season. With its festive decorations, delicious food, and fun activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re visiting for a day or a week, be sure to take advantage of all that Madrid has to offer during this magical time of year.