Last Updated on November 5, 2025 by Emma Fajcz | Published: October 11, 2018
It’s the most wonderful time of the year here in Madrid! Christmastime in Madrid is unforgettably magical, especially when you’re at one of the 7 best Christmas markets in Madrid. Whether you’re looking for traditional goods, handcrafted gifts, or gourmet treats, you’re sure to find it all at these charming Christmas markets in Madrid.
Plaza Mayor Christmas Market
The most classic of all the Christmas markets in Madrid takes over Plaza Mayor starting in mid-November and lasts until the end of the year. With more than 100 stalls and a festive atmosphere all throughout the historic square, you’ll definitely find yourself in the Christmas spirit from the moment you arrive. Plus, with a history stretching back to the 19th century, it’s also one of the oldest and most cherished Christmas markets in the whole country. There’s no better place to get in the holiday mood!
The Plaza Mayor is filled with all kinds of gag gifts and Christmas decorations, but many belenistas flock to the market to buy nativity scene supplies as well.
Insider Tip: Merrymakers flock to this market in droves, making for pretty intense crowds. We suggest going during the week or early in the evening for a more relaxed experience.
The Christmas market in Plaza de Colón is fairly new to Madrid’s Christmas market scene, but over the years it has become a favorite of locals. At the heart of the market is the 800 square meter Javier Fernández Colón Ice Rink that donates a percentage of its proceeds to charity.
Outside the rink, you’ll find dozens of stands selling handmade goods such as knitted scarfs, hats, bags, and more. There are also plenty of food stands that sell treats such as cotton candy or chocolate and churros. Our favorite? A warm cup of velvety hot chocolate with Baileys!
Insider Tip: Like most countries, Spain has its own very unique holiday traditions. From elaborate nativity scenes to the Christmas lottery and even a cheeky little pooper called a caganer, check out these 25 Unique Spanish Christmas and New Year’s traditions.
Indulge your sweet tooth at one of our favorite Christmas markets in Madrid: the Feria Dulces de Navidad, which takes place every year in Plaza de Ópera (also known as Plaza Isabel II).
Come devour all the Spanish Christmas sweets your heart desires, from marzipan and turrones to polvorones and everything in between. Products are sourced from all over Spain, so you can eat your way around the country without leaving Madrid.
Be sure to cap off your experience with rich hot chocolate and freshly fried churros; it’s the most delicious way to warm up!
Mercadillo del Gato
The Mercadillo del Gato sets up shop nearly every month of the year. However, at Christmas, the event truly escalates to another level. It’ll feature a special holiday theme as well as all of the most unique products you could imagine: vintage treasures, gorgeous jewelry, high quality menswear, and so much more. It’s definitely one of the most diverse Christmas markets in Madrid!
Starting in early December, the market is located inside the Westin Palace, but often changes locations in early January.
This is a small, but lively market located in the heart of the city in Plaza de España. Everything you need to spend a nice evening can be found at La Navideña market!
There are various stands with Christmas decorations, nativity scene figures, handmade gifts, and many other delightful trinkets. There are also quite a few food stands that serve a variety of treats, including churros and chocolate. For those looking for the complete Christmas experience, there is even a lovely skating rink.
Foodie market alert! The Mercandillo de Navidad de Castellana is fairly new, but it’s already standing out as the best food market in town.
Along with quite a few food trucks serving freshly-made pizzas and sandwiches, you can try what has been voted as the best croquetas in the world, as well as Michelin chef Dabiz Muñoz’s famous food stand, which has very, very long lines. In addition, you’ll find plenty of stands selling toys, decorations, Christmas cooking accessories, and other exciting gifts.
The market is located in front of El Corte Ingles department store on Paseo de Castellana (Nuevos Ministerios).
Feria Mercado de Artesanía
For lovers of all things handmade and artsy, the Feria Mercado de Artesanía market is the perfect spot for strolling and buying. One of Madrid’s oldest markets (it opened in 1988), it stretches down Paseo de Recoletos from Plaza de Cibeles to Plaza de Colón. With over 100 stands, it’s massive and it’s crowded, but there really is something for everyone here!
Experience Spanish Traditions for Yourself
After visiting a few of Madrid’s beloved Christmas markets, why not delve deeper into amazing Spanish cuisine? Book your spot on our next Madrid Tapas, Taverns, & History Tour for a chance to enjoy some of the city’s best tapas in the best, family-owned bars.
This isn’t just another tapas tour in Madrid; it’s an insider’s journey into the city’s most beloved bars and off-the-tourist-track gems. You’ll weave through century-old taverns, historic plazas, and hidden streets while enjoying a full meal and drinks along the way.
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Christmas Markets in Madrid FAQs
Where is the best Christmas market in Madrid?
The most iconic and beloved Christmas market in Madrid is Plaza Mayor, which transforms into a festive hub each year with over 100 stalls selling nativity-scene figures (belénes), decorations, and handcrafted gifts.
Is Madrid’s Christmas market scene good?
Yes, Madrid’s Christmas markets offer a charming, authentic holiday atmosphere filled with lights, traditional crafts, and festive stalls beyond the typical tourist traps. While not as large as some northern European markets, they have a distinctly Spanish feel and are well worth visiting.
Is Madrid worth visiting at Christmas?
Yes, Madrid is absolutely worth visiting at Christmas. During the holiday season, Madrid is filled with dazzling street decorations, seasonal markets, and lots of Christmas spirit. Visiting around Christmas lets you enjoy the city’s sights, traditions, and decorations in a less crowded—and delightfully cozy—setting.
Where are the Christmas markets in Madrid?
There are several key locations across the city: the major one at Plaza Mayor, a large artisan market at Plaza de España, booths all about desserts at Plaza Isabel II, and the crafts fair down Paseo de Recoletos from Plaza de Cibeles to Plaza de Colón.
Oh! I’d love to try out the traditional holiday sweets at the market in front of the Royal Theater. Nice list! Feliz Navidad.
And don’t forget a new addition this year of a very small but cosy Christmas market in Plaza Santa Ana. It’s few stalls echo Northern European xmas markets (which I miss a lot at this time of year) and even sell Gluhwein (happy to say that it’s real wine and not a powder mix) Let’s hope this is here to stay and expand next year.
What about 24-25/2019 is anything open such as restaurant shops etc…
Hi Shay, most shops will probably be closed on the afternoon of December 24 and all day on the 25th. You can find some of our suggestions for restaurants open on both days here: https://madridfoodtour.com/madrid-restaurants-christmas-eve-christmas-day/
We hope this helps!