Experience the holiday magic
At Christmas, the streets of Spain are lit with thousands of colored bulbs and filled with traditional street markets, exuding charm as at no other season. Admire stunning Nativity scenes and the Three Kings Parade on January 5th, glide on ice-skating rinks, and make the cold more bearable with a hot chocolate and churros or some roasted chestnuts from the many stalls you’ll find during your stroll. Wonderful aromas will help you find them! Here are some of the Spanish cities with a great Christmas atmosphere – and there are many more. Happy Holidays!
Madrid
With its legendary market in Plaza Mayor and the city adorned with thousands of lights designed by different artists, Madrid is a must. Stroll around Plaza de España, Plaza de Callao, Gran Vía, Puerta del Sol, or Puerta de Alcalá to enjoy the gloriously illuminated fir trees and Nativity scenes. Take a selfie next to the Giant Christmas Ball at the Metropolis Building. More ideas? Start the year with 12 lucky grapes as the clock chimes midnight at the stunning Puerta del Sol. You’ll have the time of your life!
Málaga
No one wants to miss out on seeing Calle Larios lit up with an incredible spectacle of light and music that enchants everyone who visits it. What’s more, in Malaga, you can also go to flamenco or classical music shows or buy souvenirs in the craft markets at La Malagueta or the bohemian district of Soho.
Vigo
The streets of Vigo are lit with over 11 million LED lights, and this Galician city is transformed into an enormous amusement park. One of the most eye-catching attractions is the giant Ferris wheel in Plaza de Compostela, where you can also find the Christmas Cíes Market or ride a sledge on artificial snow.
Valencia
This Mediterranean city is also a perfect place to spend an unforgettable Christmas. Its many markets include the Craft Fair in Plaza del Ayuntamiento, where a giant skating rink is set up, and the Craft Stalls in Colón Market. Valencia has a big tradition for making artisan Nativity scenes, and four routes have been created to discover the most beautiful ones.
Zaragoza
A huge, illuminated ball in Plaza del Pilar and a sound and light show welcome you here. You’ll also find a market, a Father Christmas village, and a giant Nativity scene. Enjoy the magic of the lights along Paseo de la Independencia, Calle de Alfonso I, and Plaza de San Felipe.
Barcelona
Once the Christmas lights have been switched on, the squares of La Mercè in Ciutat Vella, Fort Pienc in the Eixample, Plaza Orfila in St. Andreu, and Plaza Comas in Les Corts are totally transformed. To visit very special Christmas markets, don’t miss those at Santa Llúcia, which have taken place around the cathedral since 1786; the one next to the Sagrada Familia; or the fair promoting responsible consumption in Plaça Catalunya. If you want to see a Living Nativity, you’ll love the one in the Poble Espanyol.
For more information, please visit Christmas Lights, Christmas traditions, and Christmassy culinary experiences in Spain.