Winter In Madrid: The Ultimate Winter Guide for 2024

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During our recent trip to Spain, we rediscovered the captivating charm of Madrid in winter. As the crisp, cool air settles over the vibrant streets, the city transforms into a winter wonderland, creating an unmistakable magic that pulls at your heartstrings. If you’ve explored these enchanting avenues before, you’ll know that Madrid changes with the seasons, revealing a new layer of its multifaceted personality. However, it’s particularly special in winter, offering a unique and unforgettable experiences including candlelight concerts and winter sales.

In winter, Madrid becomes a symphony of twinkling lights and festive melodies, starkly contrasting the sultry, sun-drenched days we’ve basked in during past visits. The city’s smaller side streets beckon you in…, but in the shade, it might send a slight shiver down your spine. 

What is Winter Like in Madrid, Spain

Madrid in winter is a special place, brimming with activities to do that is geared to winter; the city is filled with a sense of expectation. It isn’t just about revisiting those familiar flavors and sounds; it’s a journey of deeper connection. It’s the warmth of a welcoming smile in a bustling Mercado, the hushed reverence of a historic museum adorned with yuletide decorations, and the jubilant cries of “Felices Fiestas” echoing through the streets. If you have only experienced Madrid in the summer, I invite you to see the city in the winter.

Each winter month has unique activities, with December focused on Christmas decorations, markets, and festivities to get you in the mood to celebrate the new year. A fun activity is participating in the 10 km San Silvestre Vallecana on the 31st of December, or even better, dressing up and observing. 

January is filled with big “sales,” similar to the Black Friday sales in USA, except that they last the whole month. There is also the Kings Parade on January 5^th. 

February, allows you to admire the beautiful cherry trees in blossom at the Quinta de los Molinos.

The smells of hot chocolate and churros are never as prevalent as it is in winter.  It is one of those things that make winter in Madrid special.

The Weather

Madrid temperatures in the winter vary. The city is cold and dry, with and average of only six rainy days per month.  Cloudless skies are typical in the winter, so you won’t miss out on sitting in a sunny plaza eating and drinking while you do your favorite pastime of people-watching. Madrid is not known for snow, but the area does get the occasional snowstorm that is fun for locals and tourists alike. The snow, however, racks havoc with the traffic as the city is not geared to handle snow.  If snow falls now and then, especially in late December and January, January is the coldest month when average temperatures can be as low as 6ºC (43ºF). 

Weather Tips

It is best to be prepared for the cold by carrying a set of gloves in your coat pocket and having a lovely warm scarf to wrap around your head if the wind blows. Looking out the hotel window, you might see a beautiful sunny day that can be deceptive. It is surprisingly cold in the shade, so dress for walking the smaller back streets or sitting in a piazza drinking hot chocolate. As always, check the weather forecast for the day before leaving your home base.

Does It Snow in Madrid, Spain?

Snowfall is not very common in Madrid, but it does snow occasionally. Temperatures can drop low enough for snow during the winter months, especially between December and February.

When it snows in Madrid, it is usually a light snowfall that rarely accumulates on the ground. It is a rare but delightful sight when it covers the city’s historic landmarks and parks. It is like the city put on a brand-new face. The city’s infrastructure isn’t fully prepared for heavy snow, which can lead to transportation and logistical difficulties. But the good news is that the snow won’t last long.

As always, it is best to get the local weather update as close to the time you plan to visit. Read more about snow in Spain (and Madrid) in this blog post.

What And Where to Eat During This Cold Season

For me, the best winter food is often that item that I smell coming around the corner. It might be a deep-fried churro at a small roadside stall or the enticing smell of garlic and roast meat. Often, I am led by my nose to the next eatery. I visit the local market (Mercado) to see what produce is in season, and if needed, I copy the Spanish names of vegetables down to match that to menu items. It depends on the time of day and what I want to eat. These recommendations are in different areas of the city. But don’t let not having a car prevent you from visiting it. Uber is freely available in Madrid, as is other ride-sharing services. Below is a high-level summary of the different eating institutions in Madrid, Spain.

Best Spanish Winter Dishes

Below is a list of our favorite winter dishes in Madrid. 

Gambas al Ajillo (Shrimp and garlic)

Our favorite restaurant for Gambas al Ajillo is La Casa Del Abuelo has been around since 1906. They also serve vermouth on tap (vermu de grifo). We loved the old-world atmosphere. The vermouth is not the same thing as the Vermouth we have in the USA, and it soon became one of our favorite things to drink

Churros and Hot Chocolate

When the chill begins to bite, it’s a great idea to drop into one of the many ‘chocolaterias’ dotted around Madrid and enjoy a lovely cup of hot chocolate with churros (long, deep-fried doughnuts). We loved this dish and drink and asked around about where to find the best churros. The hotel concierge sent it to Valor – but I would not recommend it. Our favorite was found at Chocolat in the Huertas neighborhood. You can smell the chocolate and churros a block away.  We always talk about travelers’ luck 🍀 and lady luck was on our side – we found the last open table. This restaurant is not in a tourist area, but it is well worth the walk to get there.

Callos a la Madrileña – Tripe and Tomato

Callos a la Madrileña is a lovely and homey Spanish dish. Madrid’s favorite winter stew is made of tripe and tomatoes. We loved the Callas a la Madrileña at Taberna Bodegas Ricla (Calle de Chichilleros 6). This is another old institution that has been around since 1867, and I loved a note on the wall that said “No aceptamos el pago con tarjeta desde 1867  – It’s not allowed to pay with a credit card since 1867″ 🥹 

Cachopo – Veal Scallopini

El Cogollo de la Descarga is a lovely, unpretentious restaurant we visited twice on our last 5-day trip to Madrid. They are famous for their veal scallopini and were crowned the champion in Spain for their cachopo (Concurso – Mejor Cachopo de Espana in 2019). Not only is the veal delicious, but on both occasions, we visited here in 2023, we also got the pulpo or octopus, served with patatas bravas (fried potatoes with a hot sauce). We’ll return in a few months to taste all these delicacies again.

Sopa de Lentegas – Madrid’s Famous Lentil Soup

You cannot go through winter in Madrid without trying the lentil soup. La Ancha serves a delicious plate of soul-nurturing soup. Don’t miss it.

Napolitana Pastry – Available in Crema or Chocolate

La Mallorquina has been a fixture of Madrid since 1894, and it offers a variety of traditional confections unique to the area. When we visited the store, it was packed with customers. However, take a moment to observe the people, and you’ll notice that although it looks like anybody can push to the front of the line, everyone knows exactly who was before or after them. So, please do not attempt to cut the line, as it won’t go unnoticed. 

The pasteleria’s staff speaks mainly Spanish, with very little English.  Don’t miss this pasteleria because they don’t speak English; the pastries are delicious. Pointing at what you want works just as well as the Spanish words. We needed a little break and sat at tables on the second floor. The pastries were a little more expensive than when you order a to-go order, but it makes sense if you consider that you are taking up real estate. On top of that, you can drink a coffee, rest, go to the bathroom and do some people-watching. All in all, it’s a great deal.

Chuletas Lechal – Suckling Pig Chops

At Restaurante El Lacon  we had wonderful crequetas, Collas con garbazos, and chuletas lechal. These little pork chops are so soft and tasty, and one of the best meat dishes we had in Madrid.

Cocido Madrileño – Madrid Stew

Iberian Ham Croquettes – Ham Balls

At Casa Alberto, another true and trusted Madrid institution that has been around since 1827, we had the delicous Iberian Ham Croquettes. The outside was fried with a crispy outside, and the inside was filled with ham. I could eat 6 of these.

Rabo de Toro – Oxtail

At Casa Alberto, we ate the succulent oxtail, and my mouth watered just thinking about it. We visited on a really cold day, and the steam raised from the bowl of stew when it was placed in front of us. It indeed was a masterpiece in cooking.

We also like the pulpo (octopus), and tuna salad. And that little side of fries…was to die for in the cold.  There were also several large groups sharing the famous Cocido Madrileño. The soup and massive plate of food we saw on the table next to us, was enough to let us know that we were not hungry enough. Several tables in the restaurant had this dish, so I need to assume it was great.

Tapas in Madrid

When we first tried our hand at tapas, it reminded me of the old Safari dinners in South Africa. On a safari dinner, you would eat one course at the first restaurant or house and then move to the next restaurant or home.  Tapas works the same way, and most bars that serve tapas do not include sit-down spaces, which makes it great for getting a couple of tapas before moving to the next spot.

If you find a tapas bar that speaks to your taste buds, stay as long as you can. People stand at the high table or in front of the serving counter. For us, it is a lot of fun to make our way through as many tapas bars as we can in a single night to find our favorite. Unfortunately, many a night, we had to give up on tapas after 4 or 6 different dishes because Johan’s sweet tooth forced us to find something sweet. See the list of our favorite tapas bars below.

This video, hosted by some of my favorite locals in Madrid, James and Yoli Blick, will help you find an EPIC Madrid Food Tour (Best Tapas, Street Food, Pastries, and more). The videos are informative and fun.

For our tapas treat, we loved Vinoteca Borboleta. This more modern vinotecha (wine shop) offers delicious tapas. We planned to eat a lot of tapas, but after 3 different kinds, we were full. Next time, we might have a lighter lunch and save more room for tapas.

There is more to Madrid and Spain’s food scene than tapas.

Different Restaurant Types in Spain.

In Spain, there are Bars, Tapas bars, Cafeterias, Mesones, and Tabernas, and to make it even more complicated, there are also Restaurants and Bodegas.  So, what is the difference, and why is it important to know it? This website provides a good overview and will help guide you to what restaurant type will provide the best winter food. 

Seasonal Winter Produce in Madrid

Good places to eat typically serve seasonal vegetables. Visiting local markets in Madrid during the winter months offers an excellent opportunity to see, taste, and learn about these seasonal crops firsthand.

Madrid, with its continental Mediterranean climate, experiences a variety of seasonal crops throughout the year. In winter, the cooler temperatures and shorter days influence the types of crops that are typically harvested. 

Some common winter crops in the Madrid region include: root vegetables, brassicas (broccoli family), Legumes (beans and peas), citrus fruit, olives and artichokes.

These crops are essential to the Madrid region’s agricultural economy and heavily influence the local cuisine. Winter dishes in Madrid often feature these seasonal ingredients, reflecting the region’s commitment to fresh, locally sourced produce. 

Our Favorite Streets with Multiple Restaurants in Madrid

My best advice is to stroll around and open your eyes, ears, and nose to new opportunities and smells. 

Often, people try to find a restaurant close to their hotel, but I recommend researching if you are a foodie to find that perfect spot.  Book the restaurant well in advance and use and Uber in Madrid to get to where you need to be.

We found Calle Victoria a good option with many small restaurants, and the food was excellent and affordable. At Casa del Abuelo (https://lacasadelabuelo.es)

We ate our favorite hot winter food. It was shrimp sauteed in garlic, parsley, and olive oil, served in a sizzling warm bowl. Note that this restaurant is famous in the city, and you might have to wait for a seat.  Recently, they have opened more restaurants to accommodate the high demand. At last count I think they were at 4 restaurants in different parts of Madrid.

Crus de Malta on Calle Victoria is also very popular. https://www.facebook.com/LaCruzDeMalta/

Other streets/calle that offer many options to try tapas are in the Barrio de Las Letras, Calle de la Cava Baja, Calle de Cadiz, Calle Barcelona, and Calle de la Cruz.  

Some of these areas were too touristy for us, but I am adding it because we all have different travel preferences. 

As is often the case, we wander around with no specific restaurant in mind. This takes all the stress away from having to be at a specific restaurant at a specific time. This does mean that you must stand in line at busy places. But use this opportunity to meet the person next to you in line. 

TIP: 👀 If you plan to dine at a popular restaurant, it’s important to make a reservation well in advance to avoid long waiting lists.

What To Wear in Madrid In Winter?

Remember to dress appropriately for the cold weather, and if you plan to engage in outdoor activities, ensure you have the gear to stay warm and comfortable. 

Wear layers, this makes it easy to add extra layers when the temperature drops or shed some layers when it gets warmer during the day.  I found that a scarf, a woolen hat and a pair of gloves make all the difference when you have to dress warmer or cooler.

Things To Do In Madrid in Winter

Despite being in a country known for its sunny weather, Madrid offers various activities that are either specific to winter or take on a special charm during the colder months. Here are some winter-specific activities in Madrid:

Visit One of Madrid’s Major Museums in the Winter

The Prado

As Spain’s national art museum, the Prado is known for its exceptional collection of European art. Although the Prado can be seen as a year-round activity, I recommend visiting the museum on cold days, when walking the city streets might not be ideal. 

Have Fun: On one of our trips to the Prado, we saw a pencil drawing done by Picasso, and one particular sketch had a corner torn off. Johan immediately said that it was the corner where Picasso wrote his telephone number for the girl he met at the bar. Have a little fun with it, but be respectful of the other visitors who might be art experts. I could not help but smile at all the chubby babies in the paintings. They were all smiling and sweet. Maybe the babies for 300 years ago did not have temper tantrums and crying fits 😉.

Special Winter Exhibitions: Winter exhibitions often include retrospectives of renowned artists, thematic exhibitions focusing on a particular era or style, or displays of recently acquired works. The Prado has a history of collaborating with other major international museums, so it’s not uncommon to find unique exhibitions featuring works from around the world.

I strongly recommend that you take a tour of the Prado. The museum is vast, and the best way to learn is from people who make a living by giving tours. Here is one interesting fact that we learned from a tour guide. The person commissioning the piece or the person with the most prominence was normally painted larger than others. One painting where a black slave was totally un-proportional and small compared to the other subjects. Or on many occasions, the person in prominence in the front of the painting would be on a large horse, and he would be the best-dressed person in the image.

Reina Sofía:

This Museum specializes in 20th-century art, this museum is home to Picasso’s famous “Guernica”.

Winter exhibitions here often explore themes in contemporary art, featuring works from the mid-20th century to the present.

The museum also frequently hosts multimedia exhibitions, including video art and installations, which can be particularly engaging in winter when indoor activities are more appealing.

Thyssen-Bornemisza:

The museum fills the historical gaps that its counterparts’ collections lack. It offers a comprehensive overview of art from the Middle Ages to the late 20th century. The museum is renowned for its thematic exhibitions that cover various genres and epochs, providing a distinctive perspective on art history.

Winter exhibitions might focus on specific art movements, lesser-known artists, or particular historical periods.

Visit the “Palacio Real” – what a sight! 

The sheer size of the palace left me speechless and happy that I did not have to clean the 2,000 rooms. On our last trip, we did not do a tour on the inside, but we are going back in February 2024, and that is one of the top things to do.

General Tips 👀  for Visiting Winter Museum Exhibitions:

• Don’t plan all your days to the fullest; leave some opportunities to make changes. For example, if the next day is going to be cold, with blistery winds, this is a great time to visit the Prado (a must-see in Madrid).
• Buy your tickets in advance. Even if it is just the night before, that will save time by not standing in lines to get tickets. For special exhibitions that are much anticipated, you might need to book weeks or months in advance.
• Check the Schedule: Before your visit, check the museums’ official websites for the latest information on current and upcoming exhibitions. 
• Guided Tours: Consider joining a guided tour to better understand the exhibitions.
• You don’t need to be an art connoisseur to enjoy museums; just walk through them, read some signs, and enjoy.

Embrace Travelers’ Luck 🍀

Keep your eyes peeled for travelers’ luck. It is often in the eye of the beholder (or the beer holder.) We had an experience where Ben saw 14 beautiful young women sitting on the edge of a fountain wall.  He approached them and asked if he could take a photo with them. They made space for him, and there was a magical moment that could not have been planned, but was embraced when the chance came up.

People watch at Mercado San Miguel

When the cold drives you inside, visiting the Mercado San Miguel is a wonderful stop. This indoor market has food stalls on the group floor and little restaurants and food stalls at the top.  As an example, we spent a pleasant evening watching how an older man tried to “chat up some girls.”  Johan and Ben wondered if they had what it took to follow in his footsteps. But they realized that they would need to start by opening the first 3 buttons of their shirt. We all agreed that that might turn the girls away.  

Christmas Markets in Madrid in Winter

Madrid’s Christmas markets, including the famous Mercado de Navidad at Plaza Mayor, offer seasonal items, decorations, and traditional Spanish Christmas sweets.

Sports Activities in the Winter in Madrid

Madrid, while primarily known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant city life, also offers a surprising array of winter sports activities and events. Here are some of the winter sports highlights in and around Madrid and where you can experience them:

Skiing and Snowboarding

   – Sierra de Guadarrama: Just an hour’s drive from Madrid, this mountain range includes popular ski resorts like Valdesquí, Puerto de Navacerrada, and La Pinilla. These resorts offer slopes for skiing and snowboarding, catering to various skill levels.

   – Madrid SnowZone: Located in the Xanadú shopping mall, it’s an indoor ski slope that offers skiing and snowboarding experiences throughout the year. It’s ideal for those who want to practice or learn the basics before hitting larger slopes.

Ice Skating

Temporary ice rinks appear across the city, providing a festive activity for all ages. The most popular ones are usually at Plaza de Callao or Palacio de Cibeles. These temporary ice rinks provide fun for young and old.

   – Palacio de Hielo: A large ice rink open for public skating. It’s a great place for casual skating or those seeking to practice ice sports more seriously.

   – Seasonal Ice Rinks: In winter, temporary ice rinks are set up in various locations around the city, such as Plaza de Callao or Palacio de Cibeles.

Winter Running Events

   – San Silvestre Vallecana: Held on New Year’s Eve, this 10K race is one of the most popular running events in Spain. It’s a festive race where many participants wear costumes.

Mountain Sports

While not in Madrid, the nearby Sierra de Guadarrama National Park offers winter sports like skiing or snowshoeing just a short drive away.

   – Hiking and Snowshoeing: The Sierra de Guadarrama also offers trails for winter hiking and snowshoeing, providing a peaceful way to enjoy the natural beauty of the Madrid region in winter.

Spectator Sports

   – Ice Hockey: Madrid has a few ice hockey teams, and games can sometimes be watched at ice rinks like Palacio de Hielo.

   – Basketball: While not a winter-specific sport, Real Madrid’s basketball team, one of Europe’s top teams, plays its season through the winter months. Games are held at the WiZink Center and offer a high-energy sports experience.

Winter Sports Events in Madrid

   – Occasional Events: Madrid sometimes hosts winter sports events or competitions, such as figure skating championships or curling tournaments. It’s best to check local event listings for any special happenings during your visit.

These activities and events showcase the diverse range of winter sports opportunities available in Madrid and its surroundings. Whether you’re an avid skier, a casual ice skater, or a spectator looking for some exciting sports action, Madrid in winter has something to offer for every sports enthusiast.

Football, or soccer as it’s known in some countries, is an integral part of Spanish culture, and Madrid is no exception. Watching football in Madrid, especially in the cozy atmosphere of a local pub, is a quintessential experience. Here’s what you need to know about enjoying football in Madrid during the winter:

Watch a playoff football game between Real Madrid and Athletica Madrid. 

The football playoff games start at the end of winter, and there’s nothing more thrilling than watching two rival teams from the same city play against each other. Real Madrid and Athletico Madrid played against each other in Madrid. How special is that. There was no way to justify paying $1,200 for four tickets to watch the game in person. We walked for miles in search of a perfect spot to watch the match between. Nonetheless, we had a great time and discovered some fantastic eateries.

La Liga

   – The primary football league in Spain, featuring top teams including Real Madrid and Atlético Madrid.

   – The season runs from August to May, with several matches taking place during the winter months.

   – Matches involving these teams attract a lot of attention and are widely watched in pubs and bars across Madrid.

UEFA Champions League

   If either of Madrid’s top teams advances in this prestigious European competition, their matches will be a focal point in local pubs, typically from the group stages in the fall through to the knockout rounds beginning in February.

Copa del Rey:

   – The Spanish knockout football cup competition also occurs in winter.

   – Games, especially those in the later rounds, are popular among football fans and are widely broadcast in pubs.

Where to Watch Winter Spectator Sports

Madrid boasts numerous sports bars and pubs where you can watch these matches. Areas like La Latina, Malasaña, and around Plaza Mayor have plenty of options. Some popular sports bars include O’Neill’s, Irish Rover, and La Fontana de Oro. These places not only broadcast the games but also offer a lively atmosphere, often filled with both locals and expats. Watching a game in a Madrid pub is more than just about the match; it’s about the communal experience, the shared passion, and the lively debates and conversations with fellow fans. You’ll find that the atmosphere can be electric, particularly during big games or matches against rival teams.

Match Days:

   – On match days, especially for big games, arriving early is advisable to secure a good spot.

   – Engage with locals, as football is a great conversation starter and a way to immerse yourself in Madrid’s culture.

Food and Drinks At Sports Events in Winter in Madrid:

   – Enjoy the local beers, wines, and tapas in Madrid’s pubs. Watching a game also offers the perfect opportunity to try various Spanish snacks and dishes.

Remember, football in Madrid is not just a game; it’s a part of the city’s soul. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just curious about the sport, experiencing a match in a local pub is a unique way to connect with the city’s heart and people.

Three Kings Parade: Held on January 5th, the Cabalgata de Reyes is a magical event where the Three Wise Men parade through the streets, a tradition that officially wraps up the Christmas season.

Candlelight Concerts:

Candlelight concerts have become a popular and enchanting way to experience music in Madrid, offering a unique atmosphere that combines the beauty of classical and contemporary music with candlelight’s intimate and magical ambiance.  Madrid hosts concerts in various beautiful and historic locations, including chapels, cultural centers, and gardens.

This type of concert is a wonderful way to spend a romantic evening in Madrid or any other European city during the winter season. Discover all there is to know about the enchanting candlelight concerts: a blend of classical and contemporary music in historic venues. It’s a magical night out. 

Seasonal Gastronomy

Sharing local food traditions and local delicacies is one of the things we love most when traveling. Winter is the time for hearty dishes in Madrid. See the section above to learn more about Madrid’s winter specialties.

Winter Carnival: While not exclusive to Madrid and not always in deep winter, depending on the year, Carnival involves colorful parades and costume parties, bringing some warmth to the chill of late winter.

Theater and Flamenco Shows: Although these shows can be seen year-round, winter often brings special performances and shows to Madrid’s theaters.

Cinema and Film Festivals: Some film festivals or special screenings may be scheduled for the cooler months, providing entertainment for those who prefer indoor activities.

Winter Festivals in Madrid

Madrid hosts various festivals during the winter months, each offering unique experiences and celebrations. Here’s an overview of some key festivals and what you can expect to do and see:

Christmas Celebrations (Navidad)

   – Date: Late November to early January.

   – Activities: The city is adorned with lights and decorations. Christmas markets like the one in Plaza Mayor offer crafts, gifts, and traditional foods. Nativity scenes (Belénes) are displayed across the city, with notable ones at the Royal Palace and Plaza de la Villa. 

   – Special Attractions: The Cortylandia, an animated Christmas display, is a favorite for families.

New Year’s Eve (Nochevieja)

   – Date: December 31st.

   – Main Event: The gathering at Puerta del Sol to eat the Twelve Grapes at midnight, a tradition believed to bring good luck for each month of the coming year.

   – Celebrations: Post-midnight, the city comes alive with parties, special dinners in restaurants, and street celebrations.

Three Kings Day (Día de Los Reyes Magos)

   – Date: January 5th-6th.

   – Highlight: The Three Kings Parade on the evening of January 5th, where the Three Wise Men parade through the streets, throwing candies to children.

   – Traditions: Families exchange gifts, and people enjoy Roscón de Reyes, a special ring-shaped cake.

Carnival (Carnaval)

   – Date: Varies, usually in February or early March.

   – Activities: Parades with vibrant costumes, music, and dancing. The festival includes street performances, mask-making workshops, and costume contests.

   – Unique Aspect: Traditional “Burial of the Sardine” ceremony marks the end of Carnival and the beginning of Lent.

   – Date: Usually in January or February.

Gastrofestival

   – Focus: Celebrating Madrid’s culinary scene.

   – Activities: Special menus in restaurants, culinary workshops, food tours, and exhibitions related to food and dining.

San Silvestre Vallecana:

   – Date: December 31st.

   – Nature: A popular 10K run that takes place on New Year’s Eve.

   – Experience: Combines sports with celebration; runners often dress in costumes.

Fiesta de San Antón:

   – Date: Mid-January.

   – Unique Aspect: A celebration for pets and animals, with a blessing of animals by priests.

   – Activities: Pet parades, adoption events, and other animal-related activities.

ARCOmadrid:

   – Date: Usually in February.

   – Nature: International contemporary art fair.

   – What to Do: Explore artwork from hundreds of galleries worldwide, attend art forums, and meet artists and collectors.

These festivals offer a mix of religious traditions, cultural events, culinary experiences, and artistic displays, reflecting Madrid’s diverse cultural heritage and vibrant community spirit. The winter season in Madrid is not just about the cold; it’s a time of lively celebrations, rich traditions, and various activities that cater to all interests.

January Sales or Rebagas (Think Black Friday for a Month)

After the holiday season, stores offer significant discounts, known as “Rebajas,” which is a great attraction for shoppers. Read more about this month of “saving money 🤣” in Madrid in January. Early Shopping: For the best selection, it’s advisable to shop early in the sales period.

Madrid Winter Travel Tips

TIP: 👀 Plan for flight delays in winter.  Even if the city that you are traveling to might not have a snowstorm (we don’t expect many of these in Madrid), there is a good chance that your plane comes from a city that might have flight delays because of weather.

Tip: 👀 Keep an eye on the news for delays caused by strikes.  On our last trip, a strike of baggage handlers caused a lot of havoc at the airport. 

TIP: 👀 Arrive early enough at the airport to handle possible delays in the security line.

Conclusion to Winter in Madrid

Call to Action: pack your warmest scarf and your sense of adventure and let’s once again lose ourselves in the winter wonder of Madrid. Create new memories in this city that always feels like coming home, no matter how far we’ve roamed. Madrid in winter is not just a destination; it’s an experience, a feeling, a cherished friend welcoming us back with open arms. I invite you to wander, explore, and fall in love with Madrid for the first time, or maybe to fall in love all over again, under the spell of its winter enchantment. Take part in winter sports activities, or if you would rather watch, there are many options. The winter festivals fill the street with fun and laughter. We hope to see you in Madrid in the winter of 2024.