Nowadays, all Christmas paraphernalia are sold in the century-old market in Plaza Mayor, in stalls that were renovated in 1980s, taking on the shape of small huts.
What time do the Christmas lights turn on in Madrid?
When: Madrid Christmas lights start on the last Thursday of November (so November 23rd, 2023) and end on January 6th. In order to plan your walk here is the Christmas lights schedule: Sunday to Thursday from 18:00 to 0:00. Friday and Saturday from 18:00 to 1:00.
The main Christmas market in Nuremberg, Germany – Christkindlesmarkt – is one of the oldest and best-known markets globally. It's known for its array of handcrafted goods for sale and for its fantastic German Bratwurst, gingerbread, and other traditional treats.
Although some tourist attractions may be closed, Madrid's main squares and parks remain open for the public to enjoy. Take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Retiro Park and revel in the tranquility it offers, or explore the charming streets of the historic city center.
Barcelona. The city's main Christmas market, the Santa Lucía Fair, is set up next to the Barcelona Cathedral from the end of November. More than 200 stalls with trees and decorative items; fashion accessories, ceramics and jewellery; zambombas, tambourines and other Christmas instruments.
Snow rarely covers Madrid's roofs, but the city never fails to create a magical Christmas atmosphere. Every year, thousands of tourists head to the capital to enjoy the Christmas lights and markets. And if you've never been, you might be surprised to learn that many celebrations happen after December 25th.
How much does it cost to go to Retiro Park Madrid?
Although it is fenced in, Retiro Park is a public park with free access. The park opens at 6am and closes at midnight (10pm in winter). Watch out! In the park, there are two gardens that have their own schedule.
On 24 December, the service will end at 10 pm, on the 25th the opening will be delayed to 8 am, and on the first day of the year the network will start operating at 7 am.
The Emblematic Tree One of the most iconic places in Madrid, Puerta del Sol, hosts a gigantic Christmas tree that becomes the epicenter of the Christmas lighting.
Which European city has the most Christmas markets?
Berlin, Germany
Berlin doesn't take Christmas festivities lightly, with over 100 Christmas markets taking place across the German city each year. The Christmas market on Alexanderplatz is particularly popular, with the scents of Bratwurst, gingerbread and mulled wine wafting through the popular square.
Which European city has the biggest Christmas market?
The biggest Christmas market in Europe happens in Vienna, Austria, near the city's historic city hall, called the Rathausplatz. The Vienna Christmas market receives around 3 million visitors every year.
Which city is known for having one of Europe's best Christmas markets?
Strasbourg in France is known as the "Capital of Christmas" and boasts some of the most beautiful and festive markets in Europe. The city has 13 markets scattered throughout the city's various neighborhoods.
From the end of November until the beginning of January, glimmering lights, holiday decorations and glowing window displays take over the city. It's impossible not to be mesmerised by these multicoloured light displays, which meet strict requirements in terms of energy efficiency and the environment.
December is definitely one of the chilliest months of the year in Madrid. Temperatures average out in the mid-40s Fahrenheit (6–7 degrees Celsius). However, they can range from the mid 30s to the low 50s (2–10 degrees Celsius). It's one of the rainiest months of the year along with November.
A single journey on public transport in Madrid will usually cost between 1,50€ and 2€, making it very budget friendly. If you don't want to top up your card every time you need it, you should consider buying a 10 trip ticket which costs just 12,20€. Both tickets work on metro and bus systems within zone A.
Metro Madrid operates from 6 a.m. to 1.30 a.m. and transfers between lines are not assured from that time on. Where can I download a map? You can obtain a Metro map in pdf format at the following link.
The Metro runs from 6am to 1.30am, with trains departing every 2 minutes in the morning rush hour and every 15 minutes in the early hours (after midnight). At weekends, trains are less frequent during the day.
Madrid offers a wealth of affordable options for tourists that don't sacrifice quality for low prices. From budget-friendly accommodations and cheap eats to free attractions and unlimited public transportation, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the city on a shoestring budget.
Free admission: From Monday to Thursday from 5pm to 7pm (4pm to 6pm in winter), for EU citizens, residents, and holders of work permits in the EU, and citizens of Ibero-American countries.
Winters in Madrid are cold and dry, and snow does fall now and then, especially in late December and in January. However, Madrid isn't known to be a particularly snowy city.
What do people wear in Madrid in winter? While Madrid's winter weather is on the mild side compared to many other European destinations, most locals will still dress for the season. That means winter coats, thick scarves, hats and gloves, and warm, comfortable shoes or boots.
