A tour of the Christmas markets: magic and tradition

Every December, Spain becomes a spectacle of lights, music and traditions that invite you to experience Christmas with all the senses. The Christmas markets, spread across cities and towns, are a reflection of the country’s cultural and artisan wealth. From figures for nativity scenes to unique gastronomic products, each corner offers a different experience.

Join us on a tour of some of the most charming Christmas markets in Spain. If you are planning a Christmas getaway, we want to recommend ideal accommodations to make your experience unforgettable.

Plaza Mayor, Madrid: The Christmas heart of the capital

The Plaza Mayor market is a mandatory stop in Madrid. This place captures the spirit of Christmas, with more than 100 booths offering decorations, nativity figures and festive items. Plus, the city’s old town is filled with lights and activities, from ice rinks to light shows on Gran Vía.

Where to sleep

We recommend staying at Casa Levene, an icon of architecture among trees on Mount Abantos, in San Lorenzo del Escorial. This town, just 50 minutes from Madrid, is famous for its impressive monastery, declared a World Heritage Site.

Casa Levene, designed by architect Eduardo Arroyo, is an icon of modern architecture and the most awarded Spanish home in recent times.

Santa Llúcia Fair, Barcelona: Catalan tradition in front of the cathedral

With more than two centuries of history, this market is a Christmas gem. Here you can find crafts, Christmas trees and the famous caganers. In addition, the city offers carol shows and spectacular decorations on Paseo de Gracia.

We recommend a house with rustic charm in Ampurdán. This house is located in the complex of homes and buildings that are part of a typical farmhouse and is surrounded by green grassy meadows and fields.

Vigo: The city of Christmas lights

Vigo has become an essential Christmas destination thanks to its spectacular lighting, considered one of the best in Europe. Its markets offer crafts, Galician delicacies and activities such as carousels and ice rinks. A place that combines tradition and modernity with an atmosphere that enchants anyone.

Where to sleep

If you are looking to complement this experience with a touch of tranquility and nature, we recommend staying in a unique house, a wooden cabin on Doniños beach.

With privileged views to enjoy magical sunsets over the estuary. The location is ideal for those who want to explore the best of Galicia.

Plaza Bib-Rambla, Granada: Tradition under the Alhambra

The Granada Christmas market is an unforgettable experience, with unique crafts, traditional sweets such as piononos and the magic of the Alhambra as a backdrop. Walking through its booths becomes a true delight for the senses.

To make this getaway even more special, we suggest staying in an exceptional place: The house on the cliff, in the picturesque coastal town of Salobreña, just 45 minutes by car from Granada. La Casa del Acantilado is a true refuge of design and serenity. Its organic architecture, inspired by natural forms and its privileged location on a cliff will give you unparalleled views of the Mediterranean.

Paseo del Arenal: Bilbao: Christmas charm in the heart of the city

Christmas in Bilbao is experienced with a special charm. The Christmas market transforms this vibrant city into a festive setting full of lights, aromas and tradition. The booths offer everything from local crafts and unique gifts to gastronomic products such as cheeses, sausages and traditional Basque sweets. In addition, the city has an extensive Christmas program, which includes concerts, shows and an ice rink.

To complement this urban experience with an authentic connection with nature and Basque culture, we recommend staying in a very special place: an 18th century Basque farmhouse in the remote and picturesque Atxondo Valley.