Blog
Christmas lights in Madrid 2025: routes, schedules and a perfect ham plan
The essence of the Christmas lights in Madrid (and where to start)
Madrid lights up with festive spirit when the Christmas decorations are turned on. Streets glow with colour and joy: the giant tree in Puerta del Sol, the huge glowing ball near Gran Vía and Alcalá, and famous figures like the illuminated Menina on the Paseo del Prado or the Ángel de Madrid in Colón have become some of the most photographed sights in recent years.
The perfect starting point: any of our Museo del Jamón locations in the city centre. We’re right on Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor, Carrera de San Jerónimo, Calle Mayor and Paseo del Prado, among others — so you can walk the route while enjoying tasty breaks between stops.
Dates and schedules: what to expect this year
Madrid City Hall usually switches on the Christmas lights in late November and keeps them on until January 6th. For example, in 2024 the lights were turned on November 28th, with standard hours from 6:00 PM to midnight (until 1:00 AM on weekends, with extended hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve). For 2025, the official schedule will be announced in the autumn. Be sure to check the municipal programme closer to the holiday season.
Accessibility tip: the city offers the Navidad Accesible app, which provides inclusive content to follow the lights. It’s ideal for planning or for those unable to attend in person.
Walking routes from our Museo del Jamón locations
1) Gran Vía → Callao → Preciados → Sol → Plaza Mayor
Start at our Gran Vía location and head to Callao to see the avenue fully lit. Walk down Preciados to Puerta del Sol and its massive Christmas tree. From there, continue to Plaza Mayor to experience its classic holiday atmosphere. Finish with a cold beer and a plate of ham in our Plaza Mayor restaurant.
2) Prado → Cibeles → Alcalá → Metrópolis → Gran Vía
Starting at Paseo del Prado, head toward Cibeles and follow Calle Alcalá. Recent editions have featured spectacular displays, like the glowing ball or nativity scenes near the Metrópolis Building — a perfect photo opportunity. End the walk at our Gran Vía location for a toast and a snack.
3) Colón → Recoletos → Prado
Begin at Plaza de Colón, where the 18-metre Angel of Madrid lit up the skies in 2024. In other years, the famous glowing Menina has been installed nearby along the Paseo del Prado. Walk down Recoletos to reach our restaurants along the Prado–Sol axis and continue enjoying your night.
Must-see stops (based on recent years)
- Puerta del Sol: giant Christmas tree (nearly 37 metres in 2024) and the official lighting event.
- Plaza de España / Metrópolis area: large light ball and light/music shows in certain editions.
- Paseo del Prado: glowing Menina, one of the most popular displays.
- Plaza Mayor: traditional setting, Christmas market, tree — and our restaurant in the same square.
Note: Each year brings new light designs and layout updates. In 2024, over 230 locations were illuminated with 100% LED lights. Always check the latest city guide before planning.
Naviluz: the Christmas lights bus in Madrid
The Naviluz bus follows a route through Madrid’s best-lit streets with frequent departures. In 2024, it ran from November 29th to January 6th (except December 24th, 31st and January 5th), with departures from Felipe IV Street (next to the Prado). Tickets are available on the official website, with assigned seating and accessibility recommendations. For the 2025 season, be sure to check dates and bookings when they are announced.
Tips to make the most of your route
- Best time to go: right at the start (around 6:00 PM) or late at night to avoid big crowds.
- Getting around: mix walking with the Metro or commuter trains. Central areas often have traffic restrictions during events.
- Photo tips: Sol, Metrópolis, Cibeles, Plaza de España and Colón offer stunning backdrops.
- Ham break: take a moment to relax in one of our bars or dining rooms and recharge with a good plate of ham.
The perfect plan: Christmas lights + ham
Seeing the Christmas lights in Madrid is even better when paired with a freshly sliced plate of ham. At Museo del Jamón, you’ll find bars, dining rooms, deli counters and our very own bakery — everything you need for a perfect festive night out in the city centre.
Reserve your spot at your favourite location (Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor, Prado…). Our team will confirm the booking and recommend the best ham platters to share.
