It’s the most wonderful time of the year here in Madrid! It goes without saying that Christmastime in Madrid brings an unforgettable sensation of holiday magic, and nowhere does that feel more present than at one of the many Christmas markets scattered throughout the city.
Whether you’re looking for traditional goods, artisanal handcrafted gifts, or a delicious gourmet treat, you’re sure to find it all and more at the array of charming Christmas markets in Madrid. These are just a few of our favorites!
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!
Insider’s 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.
This plaza 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 a large ice skating rink that donates a percentage of its proceeds to a local charity. Outside the rink, you’ll find 40 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 nice warm cup of velvety hot chocolate with Baileys!
Local’s 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, check out 25 Unique Spanish Christmas and New Year’s traditions.
Got a sweet tooth? So do we. Luckily, you can indulge it 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 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—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 at the heart of the city. Located in Plaza de España, La Navideña market has everything you need to spend a nice evening. There are various stands with Christmas decorations, nativity scene figures, handmade gifts, etc. There are also quite a few food stands that serve a variety of treats, including churros and chocolate. And for those looking for the complete Christmas experience, there is even a lovely skating rink.
Foodie market alert! This market 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, etc. 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, this 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 155 stands, it’s massive and it’s crowded, but there really is something for everyone here.
After visiting a few of Madrid’s beloved Christmas markets, why not delve deeper into another lively Spanish tradition? Attending a local flamenco show during the year is always a good idea, but at Christmas, Madrid’s traditional flamenco venues offer shows full of holiday spirit. Check out our Madrid Tapas & Flamenco Tour for your chance to enjoy some of the city’s best tapas along with an incredible show.
Update Notice: This post was updated on December 12, 2023.
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!