Spain, Europe
Madrid in December
Christmas lights, the Plaza Mayor Christmas market, and New Year's Eve at Puerta del Sol.
The straight answer
December is a good month to visit Madrid. Christmas lights, the Plaza Mayor Christmas market, and New Year's Eve at Puerta del Sol.
- Weather
- Cold and sunny, highs near 50F (10C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What December is like in Madrid
December is cold and sunny, with highs near 50F (10C). Christmas lights brighten the center, the Plaza Mayor holds its Christmas market, and New Year's Eve at Puerta del Sol ends the year with the famous twelve grapes at midnight. Crowds and prices rise around the holidays.
It suits families and couples who love holiday atmosphere. Book hotels early for Christmas and New Year. If you want lower prices, come in early December. For warmer weather, April or October are better choices. Note that many places shut or shorten hours on December 25.
Make the most of December
What is especially good about Madrid this month.
Plaza Mayor Christmas market
Stalls sell decorations, nativity figures and treats in the heart of the old city.
Twelve grapes at Puerta del Sol
On December 31, crowds eat one grape for each chime at midnight. It is packed but memorable.
Christmas lights
The city's lights make evening walks festive and free.
What to pack for December
- A warm coat
- Gloves, hat and scarf
- Comfortable walking shoes
- A small bag of grapes for New Year's Eve
Our timing tip
Arrive early at Puerta del Sol on New Year's Eve, or watch from a nearby restaurant with a view.
Book Madrid for December.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for December
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MadridOpens a hotel search for Madrid in December, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in MadridWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in MadridTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Madrid for December. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in December
Christmas and New Year's Eve at Puerta del Sol
Late November to early January
City lights, a Christmas market in the Plaza Mayor, and the famous twelve grapes at midnight on December 31.
Things to do in Madrid
Museo del Prado
Velazquez, Goya, and Bosch. Free entry runs the last two hours of most days, with long lines; buy a timed ticket instead for a calmer visit.
Museo Reina Sofia
Home of Picasso's Guernica. Closed Tuesdays; free evening hours on several days.
Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza
A superb private collection spanning centuries, and usually calmer than the Prado.
Royal Palace
One of the largest royal palaces in Europe. Still used for state ceremonies, which can close it on short notice.
Retiro Park
Rowboats on the lake, the Crystal Palace, and the rose garden, especially in May and October.
Mercado de San Miguel and La Latina
A glass-and-iron market near the Plaza Mayor, then Sunday tapas in La Latina after the El Rastro flea market.
Beat the crowds
- Book the Prado for a morning timed entry rather than the free evening hours, which draw long lines.
- Visit the Royal Palace at opening or late in the day, and check it is not closed for an official event.
- Adopt local hours: museums in the morning, a long lunch, a rest in the heat, then tapas after 9pm.
- Visit El Rastro early on Sunday morning, before it gets packed by late morning.
Know before you go
- In August, some family restaurants, bars, and shops close for a week or more. Major museums, sights, and chains stay open.
- Many museums close one day a week, most often Monday; the Reina Sofia closes on Tuesdays.
- Spanish holidays like January 6, May 1, and Holy Week bring closures and reduced hours. May 2 and San Isidro on May 15 are local holidays in Madrid.
- Many smaller shops close for a midday break outside the main shopping streets, roughly 2pm to 5pm.
Madrid in December, quick answers
Is December a good time to visit Madrid?
December is a good month to visit Madrid. Christmas lights, the Plaza Mayor Christmas market, and New Year's Eve at Puerta del Sol.
What is the weather like in Madrid in December?
Cold and sunny, highs near 50F (10C).
Is Madrid crowded in December?
Crowds in Madrid are moderate in December; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Madrid in December?
Christmas and New Year's Eve at Puerta del Sol (late november to early january).
Keep planning Madrid.
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