As the holiday season draws near, Spain transforms into a magical winter wonderland filled with the scent of mulled wine, roast chestnuts, and the glow of twinkling lights. To fully immerse yourself in the festive spirit, explore the enchanting Christmas markets that spring up across the country.
There are many festive markets all over Spain. Today, we take a look at just ten. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, these markets promise a magical experience with unique crafts, delectable treats, and the joyful sounds of the season.
1. Madrid: Plaza Mayor Christmas Market – 24th November to 31st December
Madrid comes alive with Christmas spirit, offering multiple markets, with the Plaza Mayor Christmas Market standing out as a must-visit. Established in the 19th century, this historic market boasts over 100 wooden stalls filled with handmade crafts, traditional Spanish sweets, and festive decorations.
Don’t miss the vibrant Paseo de Recoletos market, showcasing Madrid’s artisans and their craftsmanship.
2. Barcelona: Fira de Santa Llúcia – 24th November to 23rd December
Celebrating 237 years, Barcelona’s oldest Christmas market, Fira de Santa Llúcia, unfolds in Plaça Nova against the Gothic Cathedral. With around 300 stalls, this market showcases everything from mistletoe and nativity scenes to unique Catalan Christmas decorations. Dive into the local culture with traditional statuettes and the entertaining Tió de Nadal log.
3. Seville: Feria del Belén – 4th November to 23rd December
Seville’s Feria del Belén celebrates the art of crafting nativity scenes, featuring intricate belén figurines made of wood. In addition to the nativity display figurines, you will also find hand-crafted Christmas decorations. The market, spread along Avenida de la Constitución, offers a lively cultural experience with more Christmas markets scattered around the city.
4. Granada – 1st December to 6th January
Granada’s festive atmosphere comes alive at the Christmas market in Bib-Rambla Square next to the Cathedral. With about 70 stalls, this market offers handmade crafts, local delicacies, and unique Christmas decorations against the backdrop of the iconic Alhambra.
5. Bilbao – 2nd December to 5th January
Bilbao’s lively Christmas market showcases Basque Country’s festive atmosphere with artisan products, crafts, and regional treats. The market on Muelle de Ripa highlights Basque gastronomy, making it one of Spain’s best Christmas markets.
6. Malaga – 25th November to 6th January
Overlooking the Mediterranean, Malaga’s Christmas Market at Muelle Uno provides a unique setting for holiday shopping. Browse through stalls featuring handmade gifts and festive decorations against the backdrop of the mild Andalucian winter. There is also a market as Paseo de Parque which is open until 10th January.
7. Zaragoza – 2nd December to 8th January
Explore Zaragoza’s Christmas market stalls in Plaza del Pilar and indulge in the city’s culinary delights. In addition, you can enjoy ice skating, or the toboggan track. There are plenty of traditional activities, shows and guided tours.
8. Palma de Mallorca – 23rd November to 7th January
Palma de Mallorca’s festive markets offer a delightful mix of traditional and modern. Wander through charming stalls offering handmade crafts, local products, and enjoy festive entertainment. Located at the Plaça Major, La Rambla, Via Roma, Parc de ses Estacions, Plaça de la Porta Pintada and Plaza del Mercat, there is something for everyone.
9. Cordoba – Dates to be confirmed
Cordoba hosts a full programme of activities for children and adults during the festive season. The Christmas market will take place on the Plaza de las Tendillas.
10. San Sebastian: 1st December to 7th January
Experience the magic of Christmas in San Sebastian at the Mercado de Navidad, offering a delightful array of crafts, decorations, and local products against the backdrop of the city’s stunning architecture. The Christmas market will be located at Paseo de Francia, Plaza Urume a and Plaza Ramón Labayen. There will be over 50 stalls selling typical Christmas food, toys, games, crafts, gift items and decorations.
