What to see during Madrid’s December holiday weekend

The long weekend in December is an excellent opportunity to explore Madrid. If you’re working in Spain and take several days off this year, you’ll have an extended break—almost a full week—to enjoy everything the Spanish capital has to offer.

There’s no shortage of things to see and do, especially as the festive season approaches. The city comes alive with Christmas lights, markets, ice skating rinks, and more. Have you explored all the festive activities Madrid has to offer during the December holiday weekend? To make the most of your time, we recommend hiring a car with DoYouSpain, ensuring you don’t miss a single experience.

Madrid long weekend plans for December

We’ve made it easy for you with a list of activities to enjoy over the holiday weekend in Madrid. Grab a pen and paper, and take notes!

Visit the Christmas Markets

One of Madrid’s most cherished Christmas traditions is its Christmas markets, which spring up across the city during this time of year.

Plaza Mayor Market is one of the most famous, featuring over 100 stalls offering nativity scenes, ornaments, and festive decorations. The historic square transforms into a winter wonderland, buzzing with holiday cheer.

Near the Reina Sofia Museum, you’ll find the Reina Sofia Christmas stalls offering gifts and treats. Just over a mile away, the Feria Mercado de Artesania lies in the Paseo de Recoletos. This artisan market features over 150 craftsmen from across Spain, offering handmade goods and unique gifts.

And these are just the most popular ones! Madrid is brimming with markets during the festive season, each with its own charm. Our tip? Discover them at your own pace while strolling through the city’s beautifully decorated streets.

Enjoy the Christmas lights

For the December long weekend, Madrid transforms its streets with a dazzling display of Christmas lights, enveloping the city in festive cheer. Strolling through the centre of Madrid after sunset is one of the best free activities you can do. The vibrant colours of the lights enhance the city's beauty, making for a magical experience.

Following the Christmas light trails is a must if you’re visiting Madrid at this time of year. Did you know you can also see them on a bus? A special route takes you through the city’s most iconic streets, offering a unique way to enjoy the lights. This option is particularly convenient if you’re visiting with children, as it allows them to experience the magic without getting too tired.

Ice skating

What could be more Christmassy than gliding across the ice? The renovated Plaza España is home to one of the best ice rinks in central Madrid. But it’s not the only place where you can skate. The rinks at the Matadero, the Galeria de Cristal del Palacio de Cibeles, and the Palacio de Hielo also open at the start of December, offering delightful experiences for skaters of all ages.

Enjoy a Gospel concert

The Great Gospel Festival has become an unmissable event during the early days of December in Madrid. Year after year, this spectacular show gathers top international artists at the Sala Guirau.

Visit the Botanical Gardens

If you’re wondering what to do with children during Madrid’s December long weekend, a visit to the Botanical Gardens is an excellent choice. At this time of year, the gardens often host a mesmerising light show, transforming the grounds into a magical wonderland.

Cortylandia for the little ones (and the Not-so-little ones)

One of Madrid’s most cherished December traditions is Cortylandia. Whether you’re visiting with children or simply want to relive a bit of nostalgia, this animated show of figures and music has become a perennial favourite. It’s a delightful experience that draws crowds year after year—and for good reason.

Get to all your plans in Madrid over the holiday weekend with DoYouSpain

During the festive season, Madrid comes alive with energy and excitement, but the city can also get quite crowded, especially in the city’s most iconic landmark. That’s why one of the best ways to discover the city is by hiring a car. It offers the convenience of reaching your destinations quickly and with ease, allowing you to make the most of your long weekend.

If you’re spending the holiday weekend in Madrid with children, a rental car can make your trip significantly more manageable. You’ll avoid the hassle of crowded public transport and enjoy the freedom to travel comfortably at your own pace. What’s more, having a car allows you to explore some of the charming villages surrounding Madrid, adding even more to your experience.

But convenience isn’t the only advantage of hiring a car with DoYouSpain. Its affordability is another major benefit. With DoYouSpain, you’re guaranteed to find the lowest prices on the market—guaranteed!