Thinking of going to Madrid after Xmas and spending New Year there. Is the city functioning normally, shops, trains, restaurants, theaters, etc? Or does it shut down like London? Also, would appreciate ideas for celebrating on Dec 31. Thanks
Gladys
Posted by
Chicago
8166 posts
Yes the city is functioning normally everything is open. There were will still be a lot of tourists. I landed there on December 27th last year.
After taking the train to Cordoba and spending the night we rang the New Year in Seville at a Flamenco club (but we love Flamenco) that included a bottle of Champagne and the traditional eating of 12 grapes at midnight.
Posted by
Barcelona + Sweden
4180 posts
Madrid is definitely the place to be for NYE, especially the Puerta del Sol, which is the epicenter of festivities in Spain, a bit like Times Square in New York for the USA. The most famous New Year’s tradition in Spain is eating 12 grapes, one for each gong at midnight. I think you'll have a blast if you head over to Puerta del Sol in Madrid during NYE, with a bottle of Cava (sparkling wine) in one hand and a handful of grapes in the other!
On another note, while Christmas is very much celebrated in Spain, know that the main holiday is actually Three Kings Day on January 6th, so you will find Spain to be still in the festive mood, later than when you would expect. Many of our traditional Christmas markets go on even into early January. Also on the night of Jan 5th many cities (especially in Madrid) have a big parade of the Three Kings (Los Reyes Magos) which is the traditional holiday celebrated in Spain on the morning of the 6th.
P.S. During the holiday season, we have a tradition in Spain of eating Turrón – a nougat-like sweet. I would be on the look out to try some. For sure, you can find a great selection of different turrónes at El Corte Inglés.
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
The Prado only closes 3 days a year-Christmas Day, New Year's Day, and May 1st. I assume lots of other attractions will be closed on January 1st as well.
Posted by
7 posts
The question is, how old are you? Depending on your age, you will find plans that will fit your tastes. Madrid is a vibrant city, specially that night!