Can you feel it too? It’s all around us—Christmas is quickly approaching! And here in Spain, Christmas decorations are ready to welcome locals and tourists for another magical year.
Discover the traditional and enchanting Christmas markets, savor classic Spanish Christmas treats with your family or loved one, and take a stroll to admire the most beautiful Christmas lights.
But if you’re wondering what makes Christmas in Spain so special, read on to discover the three most charming cities to visit during the holiday season!
Madrid draws thousands of visitors to its Christmas markets and dazzling light displays, turning the city into a magical wonderland filled with music and festive spirit.
Pro Tip: It rarely snows in Madrid, but temperatures are colder than in southern Spain, so remember to bring warm clothes!
Start your journey at Plaza Mayor, Madrid’s most famous square, where you’ll find a traditional Christmas market filled with ornaments and festive decorations. Visit after sunset to enjoy the colorful lights and soak in the square’s enchanting atmosphere.
Next, head to the iconic Chocolateria San Gines and enjoy the world-renowned churros con chocolate.
For some of the best Christmas lights in the city, take a walk down Gran Via, one of Madrid’s main shopping streets, often called the “Spanish Broadway” due to its many theaters. The entire street is beautifully illuminated, and you’ll find a giant Christmas tree next to the Gran Vía Metro station.
Finally, don’t miss Puerta del Sol, one of Madrid’s busiest squares. This is where Spain’s famous clock chimes at midnight on New Year’s Eve, marking the tradition of eating the 12 Grapes of Luck. At Christmas, the square comes alive with festive decorations and bright, colorful lights.
In the past few years, Vigo has become Spain’s Christmas capital, thanks to its record-breaking holiday lights. With over 11 billion lights spread across 400 streets, Vigo is guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit!
The city’s Christmas Market is the perfect place to buy festive treats and traditional foods. There’s even an artificial snow machine and Santa Claus’s house, where kids can meet Santa and drop off their wish lists.
In Plaza Princesa, a 30-meter-high Christmas tree awaits you! The lights change color to the rhythm of Christmas songs, creating a mesmerizing experience.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the chance to take a picture under the tree—there’s a small passage that goes right through it!
For a panoramic view of the entire city and its Christmas decorations, ride the Vigo Ferris Wheel. Standing 60 meters high, this attraction in Areal offers breathtaking views—unless you’re afraid of heights!
The capital of the Costa del Sol might not be the first place you think of for Christmas, but those who visit are blown away by its festive charm.
Malaga is the only Spanish city that made the “Best Christmas Lights in Europe 2021” list by Best European Destinations. Every year, hundreds gather on Calle Larios to witness the grand switch-on ceremony, marking the start of the Christmas season.
Explore the charming streets of the old town and let yourself be enchanted by Malaga’s magical atmosphere. When you need a break, stop by Casa Aranda for some churros con chocolate.
Don’t forget to try the traditional sweets of the season:
Pro Tip: Malaga offers mild winter temperatures. Expect daytime highs of around 17°C, and even warmer if you’re enjoying the sun at one of the many outdoor terraces downtown.
Spain is, without a doubt, a country that fully embraces Christmas. And while you may not find snow in most of the country, the warmth of the Christmas spirit will be all around you.
So, have you ever celebrated Christmas in Spain? Which city would you love to visit?
Images by: esmadrid.com , Faro de Vigo, El Mundo.
