If you are planning to visit Madrid at the end of the year, the Christmas markets are one of the coolest experiences in the city. The lights come on in the late afternoon, the atmosphere becomes cosy, and the squares are filled with stalls selling crafts, decorations, sweets and traditional foods. Madrid takes Christmas seriously, and visiting the markets is a simple and delightful way to get into the spirit of the season.
In addition, each market has its own character. Some are more traditional, full of nativity-scene pieces, crafts and classic decorations, while others focus on a more modern experience with food trucks, cultural activities and themed areas for children. This variety means the visit is never quite the same from one year to the next, and it is precisely this mix that makes Christmas in Madrid so appealing for both locals and visitors.
Madrid offers a wide selection of markets. We have prepared this comprehensive guide to make your visit easier.
Interactive map of Christmas markets in Madrid
Before choosing which markets to visit, take a look at the interactive map below. It shows all of Madrid's Christmas markets, organised by type, so you can quickly see where they are, which ones are close to each other and how to fit them all into your itinerary. It's a practical way to know them and decide where to start.
Our Top 5
We have prepared a selection of Madrid's largest and most representative markets for you.
Plaza Mayor Market
The Plaza Mayor Market is the most famous and oldest market in Madrid. It has been operating for over a century and remains the heart of Christmas in the city. It is a very busy market, especially on weekends, but it is worth visiting for the atmosphere. Even if you don't buy anything, just walking among the stalls is a very Madrilenian experience.
Opening hours
25 November to 31 December
Sunday to Thursday: 10am to 9pm
Fridays, Saturdays and days before public holidays: 10am to 10pm
How to get there
Metro: L1 or L5
Bus: 17, 18, 35, 41, 60, 148, C1, C2, C03
Renfe: C1, C5, C10
La Navideña in Plaza de España
La Navideña is one of Madrid's most popular markets and is located at the Plaza de España. This year's edition features a 600 m² natural ice rink, craft stalls and a food court. It is a large market with live music, activities for children and light and sound shows. Even though it is very busy, it is one of the most pleasant places to stroll, especially in the late afternoon when the lights come on.
Opening hours
25 November to 11 January
Monday to Friday: 12 noon to 10 p.m.
Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
How to get there
Metro: L2, L3, L10 (Plaza de España)
Bus: 001, 1, 2, 3, 25, 39, 44, 46, 62, 74, 75, 133, 138, 148, C1, C2, N16, N18, N19, N20, N21
Recoletos Craft Fair
The Paseo de Recoletos Craft Fair is one of Madrid's most traditional fairs and occupies the entire stretch between Colón and Cibeles during the month of December. There are around 130 stalls with artisans from the Community of Madrid and other regions, offering handmade pieces: ceramics, jewellery, leather, toys, artistic glass and much more. It is a great place for those looking for different gifts and truly handmade products.
Opening hours
1st to 30th December
Every day: 11am to 9pm
24th December: 11am to 3pm
Closed on 25th December
How to get there
Metro: L2 (Banco de España) or L4 (Colón)
Bus: 1, 2, 5, 9, 14, 27, 45, 51, 52, 53, 74, 146, 150, among others
Cercanías: Recoletos Station
MAVIDAD Bernabéu
MAVIDAD Bernabéu is Madrid's newest Christmas attraction. It is a winter theme park inspired by the world of the ‘Mavix’. The park has an ice rink, slides, themed areas, shows, entertainment and a food court. It is aimed at families and is expected to sell out quickly, so it is advisable to buy tickets in advance.
How to get there
Metro: L10 (Santiago Bernabéu)
Bus: 44, 45, 120, 147, 150, as well as the Padre Damián - Concha Espina and Sagrados Corazones lines
El Corte Inglés Market in Castellana
The El Corte Inglés market in Castellana is one of the liveliest in the city and is set up in the shopping centre's outdoor car park. The highlight is the food section, with food trucks and a variety of options. Among them is the famous Pollos Muñoz, by chef Dabiz Muñoz, as well as churros, sweets and quick options to eat while strolling around. At night, the light projection on the building's façade creates a very special atmosphere.
Opening days
13 November to 5 January
How to get there
Metro: L6, L8, L10 (Nuevos Ministerios)
Bus: 7, 14, 27, 40, 126, 147, 150
Christmas markets are a delightful attraction in Madrid, both for those who live in the city and those who are just passing through. We wait all year for this time of year to arrive because we LOVE it! Just wait until late afternoon to see the squares filled with people, the lights lit up and people wandering among the stalls, food and decorations. Visiting one or two is enough to get you in the festive spirit. If you are in Madrid between November and January, it is worth including at least one of these markets in your itinerary. They are simple, accessible and help you make the most of this busy time of year in the city.
