Is December a Good Time to Visit Madrid?
The capital city of Spain is Madrid, the city that welcomes people from all over the globe all the year through. Madrid can be an excellent destination but when choosing a month to visit you might be interested in choosing December for example. In this article we will be talking about the pros and cons of visiting Madrid in December.
Advantages of Visiting Madrid in December
- December is a mild winter climate in Madrid with an average temperature of 8° to 14°C (46° to 57°F). But it is not as cold as other European towns.
- Month of Festivity: Madrid is pulsating with period decorations and occasions during the month of December. Beautiful lights decorate the streets and Christmas markets appear everywhere in the city. An enchanting Christmas market turns Plaza Mayor into the main square winter wonderland.
- Madrid has many cultural celebrations and events unique to it in December. On December 8, it is a public holiday, marked with processions and religious celebrations fit to honour the Immaculate Conception. Locals unite in Puerta del Sol for grapes and a new year on New Year’s Eve.
Considerations for Visiting Madrid in December
- Weather Preparations: As far as Madrid’s winter weather is concerned, it is usually mild but you need to wrap up when outdoors. Layers such as a warm coat (or sweaters and scarves) are a must because the temperatures can drop in the evenings. Don’t forget to bring an umbrella and good shoes so you do not waste your money going from store to store.
- Read More: The larger crowds of December will be offset by the period’s attraction on the part of tourists. It would be wise to book accommodation in advance to reserve the choice you want and avoid paying more than you would for accommodation at the last minute.
- Sun Set Earlier: December marks the shortest daylight hours and the sun sets earlier in the day. Have a plan for how to use the daylight to optimize your activities.
What to Do in Madrid in December
- Take advantage of the Museums: Madrid’s great museums are the sort that can be enjoyed in the December cold, and you can spend time away from the cold when admiring art and history inside. Highly recommended are the museums of Prado, Reina Sofia and Thyssen-Bornemisza.
- Visit Madrid Christmas market: Feel the Christmas spirit of Madrid’s Christmas markets. Well, Plaza Mayor market is offering different festive treats, crafts and unique gifts in the market. Other markets worth exploring are at Puerta de Alcalá and Plaza de España.
- Madrid is in the mood for cuisine and the locals should enjoy Seasonal Delicacies: During the month of December you have the chance to dine on some of Madrid’s culinary delicacies! Make it a Christmas of the traditional Christmas treats, such as turron (nougat), polvorones (shortbread cookies), roscon de reyes (King’s cake), etc.
Tips for Visiting Madrid in December
- Some of the attractions might have different opening hours during the holiday season so check the timings of all the places ahead.
- Dress in layers and pack for different weather conditions.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes for being a tourist in the city.
- Trying to book accommodation and attractions in advance, such as a royal palace, is not a foolhardy thing.
- If you are planning on traveling around the city, consider purchasing a Madrid Tourist Travel Pass, it is in fact that convenient.
- Engage in the Spanish New Year custom of eating the twelve grapes at midnight.
Last but not least, December is a brilliant opportunity to visit Madrid. Located in the New_South as it is called, this city has a mild winter climate, festive atmosphere and unique cultural celebrations, not to mention the numerous activities to help you experience a memorable holiday. As it’s December, you might just have to expect cooler temperatures and more crowds, but it will still be an excellent month of exploring Madrid.
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