Top Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas

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Top Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas

December 19, 2021

Madrid is a magical place to spend the holidays. With the most beautiful Christmas lights, cute little markets, holiday decorated coffe shops, musicals and one of a kind traditions, there's no shortage of amazing things to do in Madrid. If you’re not sure what to do this holiday season, these things will surely make you want to pack your bags, book your ticket, and jet off to the city.

Here are my top things to do to in Madrid at Christmas!

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: LIGHTS

Naviluz Christmas Bus: Tour the city centre and enjoy the Christmas lights on board an open-top festive bus from November 26 2021 to 6 January 2022. Tickets may only be purchased from the official website.

Cortilandia: El Corte Inglés department store (it's similar to Bloomingdale's or Macy's) has been delighting children -and adults- with a wonderful show on the façade of its building on Calle Maestro Victoria (next to Preciados). The 15-minute show, which takes place various times a day, features gigantic puppets singing Christmas carols and songs.

Naturaleza Encendida at Jardin Botanico. Held at the Royal Botanical Garden from 2 November to 16 January, it is a light experience like no other. A total of 15 kilometres of led lights will turn the space into a surreal and special Atlantic Ocean, full of sea creatures that appear to be swimming throughout the route. Buy ticketshere.

Christmas decorations at the Four Seasons Hotel. Since the opening of this luxury hotel a few years ago, the magnificent Christmas tree on its facade has become one of the biggest holiday attractions in Madrid.

Find out where the best city lights are on this blog post: Christmas lights in Madrid

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: ICE SKATING

Madrid has installed outdoor ice skating rinks in several squares across the center. All of them open early in the morning (usually around 10:00) and close late (between 10pm and midnight). The most famous ones are in Plaza Colon, Plaza España, Matadero or Cibeles Palace.

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: HOT CHOCOLATE

A cup of hot chocolate is mandatory when visiting a Spanish city during winter time. Don't miss San Gines or Valor to dip your churros in a hot chocolate. Yum! 

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: CHRISTMASY COFFEE SHOPS

Salon des Fleurs, Cafe de Oriente and Living in London are my favorite coffee and tea shops during the holiday season. Apart from the high quality of the products they serve, their ornaments and decor are jaw-dropping. These cozy places create the perfect Christmas atmosphare that make it really difficult to leave when it's cold outside.

Coffee shop enthusiast? Read this post: 6 amazing coffee shops in Madrid

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: CHRISTMAS MARKETS

The most famous and popular is the one located at Plaza Mayor and attracts thousands of visitors every year. If you want to get a unique Christmas souvenir, you can buy your own Belén. The nativity scene or Belén (Spanish for Bethlehem) has special significance in Spain. Every family has its own and it's a big tradition to set it up together.

Looking for one of a kind souvenirs? Read this post: 20 unique things to buy in Spain

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: SHOPPING

Stroll along Serrano street to see ornate window displays at the luxury shops and department stores. The best Christmas shops to find the most beautiful ornaments to decorate your home are in Madrid:

• Sally Hambleton
• Tienda de Navidad Corte Ingles
• Living in London

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: PARADE

Children wait for The Three Wise Men every 5th of January. On Epiphany day (6 January), Spanish kids traditionally wake up to find the reward to their last year’s behaviour: presents for the well-behaved, charcoal for the naughty. On the evening of January 5 there is a spectacular "Three Wise Men Parade" where children get to see the Three Kings and their pages. When they go back home, kids leave their shoes, sweets and glasses of water for the Kings and their camels before going to bed.

Want to know more about Spain's holiday traditions? Read this post: Family traditions in Spain 

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: MUSICALS

Don't miss a chance to enjoy a musical when you are in Madrid. Right now you can watch: The Lion King, A Chorus Line, Ghost, Grease or Kinky Boots among others.

With is lively streets and stunning monuments, Madrid is a beautiful place to visit any time of the year, but it is extra special during the holiday season. That’s why I highly recommend experiencing it at least once in your lifetime!

You can find more info about Christmas activities in Madrid on the official website.

Things to Do in Madrid at Christmas: MAP

On this map you can find all the place you need to visit in Madrid during the holiday season. To take it with you, simply click on the star next tou the title and it will be saved to My Maps in Google.

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Places to Enjoy a Traditional Thanksgiving Meal in Madrid

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Places to Enjoy a Traditional Thanksgiving Meal in Madrid

November 14, 2021

Would you like to celebrate one of the most popular American traditions in Madrid? There are plenty of restaurants that offer a traditional Thanksgiving meal. After a year in which we have learned to value what's important in life, it's time to say thanks for what we have joining our friends and family once again.

Check out the best restaurants to get your Turkey and pumpkin pie fix in the capital of Spain.

PLACES TO ENJOY A TRADITIONAL THANKSGIVING MEAL IN MADRID LIST

Hotel Urso

This is a luxury hotel that has one of the most spectacular dining rooms in Madrid. "It is a former palace that integrates the royal character of the bourgeois architecture of Madrid during the 20th Century, with the modernity and comfort of a modern luxury hotel."

Date: November 25 2021

Price: 75€

Dog & Fox Urban Kitchen

Latin roots mixed with American food.

Date: November 25 lunch from 12.30pm and dinner from 8pm

Price: 28€

Roll Madrid

American food, coffee, brunch and craft beer

Date: from November 25 to November 28 2021

Price: 40€

La Otra de Malasaña Bar

I've never been to this restaurant but has good reviews and it is on the list of 30 best restaurants around the world to celebrate Thanksgiving. It's the only Spanish restaurant that made the list.

Date: from November 24 to November 28 2021.

Price: 42€

Carmencita Bar

Carmencita Bar is one of the most popular brunch spots in Madrid. You can have your Thanksgiving at the restaurant or have the turkey to go.

Date: from November 24 to November 28 2021

Price: 38€

Trikki New Orleans Cuisine

Yummy New Orleans Cuisine and Poboys

The American Club of Madrid

Live music, open bar and buffet dinner in the center of Madrid.

Date: November 25 2021

Price: 50€

Mazal Bagels

Order your pumpkin pie on their website website under the "pre-order pumpkin pie" tab. 21€ until Nov 21 and then 23€.

THANKSGIVING MEAL IN MADRID MAP

You can save this map by clicking on the star next to the title.

Do you want to celebrate at home? If you prefer something low key with friends at home, Taste of America has your favorite American products waiting for you. It was the first shop in Madrid to specialize in American products. On their website, you'll find various locations throughout Madrid.
If preparing the whole thing is too much for you, organize a pot-luck and have everyone bring a dish.

Black Friday has become increasingly popular in recent years too, you will find discounts on most shops during this week. Bear in mind that the discounts won't be as good as in the US. Here you will only find 20-30% off.

How are you going to celebrate Thanksgiving?

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Is Teruel worth Visiting?

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Is Teruel worth Visiting?

October 3, 2021

Teruel is not Spain's most popular tourist destination. In fact, locals coined the moto "Teruel exists" in the 90's to raise awareness about the lack of visitors. The moto became so famous that it is now part of Spain's popular culture.

However, it's not like there's nothing to see in Teruel, quite the opposite. It's one of those places off the beaten path that should actually be on your must-see list. The streets of Teruel are practically a display of Mudejar art. The cathedral and three other churches are UNESCO Architecture World Heritage Sites and there are stunning examples of art nouveau architecture. Apart from the artistic heritage, Teruel is famous for some tragic love stories worthy of Shakespeare himself. 

So if you are in the area, Teruel is definitely worth visiting.

Need more reasons to visit Teruel? Here are the best things to see and do in this city of many hidden gems.

What is Mudejar architecture?

There was a time when 3 important cultures coexisted in Spain: Jews, Muslims and Christians. All three of them shaped the country and left a remarkable legacy. Toledo is the best example of the coexistance of all three of them and Teruel has the most impressive muslim heritage.

Muslim workers were highly regarded at the time and were often employed as builders. So Mudejar style refers to the application of decorative Islamic art styled motifs and patterning to Christian styles of architecture such as Romanesque, Gothic or Renaissance.

Best things to do and see in Teruel

The twin towers: Torre de El Salvador & Torre de San Martín

Recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, these twin towers are amongst the best preserved Mudejar-style architecture in Spain. 

The legend has it that two builders -and friends- Omar and Abdala wanted to marry the same girl, Zoraida, so they were challenged to build a tower each. The first to finish the tower would marry Zoraida. Omar finished first, but to his dismay he saw that his tower was slightly crooked. Ashamed of his mistake, Omar jumped from the tower killing himself. So Abdala married Zoraida in the end. They did not end up living happily ever after as the memory of the lost friend haunted them forever.

La Escalinata

Built in neomudejar style at the beginning of the 20th century and located near the train station, this spectacular staircase pays tribute to the Mudejar art in the city.

Teruel Cathedral

Most cathedrals in Spain are Gothic-style so the fact that Teruel cathedral is Mudejar makes it even more unique. In fact, signs of several architectural styles can be appreciated in this building. Inside you can find a coffered celling that is considered the Sistine Chapel of Mudejar Art.

St. Pedro’s Church

Unlike most churches that are built with stone, San Pedro's church was built of brick. The interior of the church is jaw-dropping. The colorful walls andthe Renaissance altar will leave you speechless.

Plaza del Torico

A tiny bull sculpture gives name to Teruel's main square. Together with the Lovers of Teruel, the little bull is a major icon in this city. The other main attraction of the square are the art nouveau buildings and the lively restaurants.

Casa El Torico

Ornate exteriors, colorful flourishes, iron and glass work make Art Nouveau buildings unmistakable. The decorative movement that flourished in Europe throughout the 18-19th centuries has left us some stunning examples of architecture like Gaudi's work or Casa el Torico. The "little bull house" was built in 1912 and it's one of the best preserved art nouveau buildings in the region of Aragon.

Los amantes de Teruel - the lovers

The Lovers of Teruel is a romance story that is alleged to have taken place in 1217. It's the story of Diego and Isabel. Isabel was the only daughter of one of the wealthiest families in the city but Diego came from a poor background. In order to be able to marry Isabel, Diego reached an agreement with her father: he would leave Teruel for five years to build his fortune. The time passed by and since there were no news about Diego, Isabel got married obeying her father. Five years later, Diego returned and when he heard the news about his lover being married, he died on her feet. Next day, during the Diego’s funeral, Isabel gave him a kiss and died as well. The remains of the Lovers of Teruel can now be visited in a mausoleum attached San Pedro Church.

Where to stay in Teruel

In the outskirts of Teruel you can find the Parador. The neo-mudejar style hotel is decorated with marble, tilework, ogival arches and Arab details. If you go during the summer you can enjoy a wonderful dinner at their garden barbeque and swim in the pool. 

What to eat in Teruel

"Jamon de Teruel" (ham) and "longaniza" (pork sausage) are the most famous products from the city. Some typical recipes from Teruel are "migas" (toasted bread crumbs), garlic soup or cod with tomato. For dessert, you must try peaches from Calanda which are a delicacy!

Best things to see around Teruel: Albarracín

Albarracin is considered one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. Located just 30 minutes west from Teruel, this fairy tale village is one of the main attractions in the area. The steep and narrow streets together with the reddish buldings will make every photo look like a postcard. 

Be sure to climb the Muslim walls for the best views of the town!

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5 day Costa Brava itinerary: the best things to do

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5 day Costa Brava itinerary: the best things to do

August 31, 2021

Just 1 hour and 40 minutes above Barcelona you can find Costa Brava, one of the most beautiful places in Spain. There are countless things to do and see around this coast bathed by the Mediterranean sea such as spectacular coves with turquoise water, quaint medieval villages, delicious food and last but not least Salvador Dali's house and museum. Driving along the coast you will get jaw-dropping views.

A road trip is the best way to explore Costa Brava and this blog post includes everything you need to plan your visit: a thoroughly planned itinerary, travel tips, restaurant and hotel recommendations, a map to take with you on your trip and finally a video that shows you the very best things to do.

Whether you are planning a family trip, romantic escape, or a solo adventure, Costa Brava is a dream summer destination.

Here’s your ultimate guide to five days in Costa Brava!

Costa Brava itinerary: Day 1

If you are a fan of Salvador Dali's work, there are three places in Costa Brava you can't miss: his museum in Figueres, his house in Portlligat and his wife's castle in Pubol. Tickets for all three places sell out fast so I recommend you buy them online before your trip. 

Spend day 1 in Figueres. The town’s main claim to fame is that it was where the artist Salvador Dalí was born and is where his main museum in Spain is located. The museum building is a large red theatre. The outside is covered in yellow pieces of bread, with white eggs on the roof and golden statues. Dalí designed it himself and wanted the museum to be a surrealist journey through his bizarre world. The museum houses one of the best Dalí collections of art in the world. Right next to the Dalí Theatre Museum is the Dalí Jewels Collection which shows a collection of jewellery made by him.

With the ticket to Dali's Museum you get a 30% discount to Museu del Joguet (Toy Museum) which is worth visiting as well. Afterwards go to Castle of San Fernando, the biggest fortress in Europe which dates back to the 18th century.

Where to eat: at Restaurante El Motel you can find the exquisite food and the most spectacular dessert trolley! It's pricey but worth it.

Costa Brava itinerary: Day 2

Start your day at Cala Montjoi, the cove where the world-famous restaurant El Bulli is located. Note that the restaurant is not open anymore. Something else to take into account is that the road to the cove is closed from 10:30am to 4:30 pm.

During our trip we stayed in the coastal town of Roses. Not much to see here but the beach is really nice, there are many hotel resorts and the location is really good to travel around Costa Brava.

Where to eat: Ona is the coolest beach bar in Roses. Surf vibes surround you as soon as you walk in the hut. They serve burgers, sandwiches and healthy bowls. Ona is also a great choice for cocktails when the sun goes down. 

Where to stay: Hotel Mediterraneo Park (Roses)

Costa Brava itinerary: Day 3

Apart from dreamy coastal towns, in Costa Brava you can find quaint medieval towns with cobblestone streets, stone houses and bougainvillea hanging from balconies. Pals and Peratallada are two of those villages that must be on your itinerary. Once you get there all you have to do is wander around the streets and find the prettiest spots. There are also amazing shops here. No tacky souvenirs, it's all good quality craftsmanship.

Where to eat: Restaurante La Roca at Peratallada has the lovieliest patio to eat al fresco. Their 23€ menu includes a starter, main course and dessert which is a great deal!

Costa Brava itinerary: Day 4

Cadaques is one of the most beautiful places in Costa Brava. Once the location of artists like Joan Miro or Pablo Picasso, this white washed village recieves many visitors every summer for good reason. Cadaques is a unique seaside gem that you should not miss.

Tip: the mountain road that leads to Cadaques is not for those who get car sick. If you are going to be traveling around the area, I suggest you stay somewhere else and spend a day in Cadaques

Where to eat: if you are eating in Cadaques, be sure to book a table in advance. The town is packed with tourists during the summer and it will be difficult to get a table otherwise. We had lunch at Talla and loved it. They serve Mediterranean food with a modern twist. The food quality and cooking was exceptional. Another option is Compartir, one of the most famous restaurants in Cadaques.

Where to stay: Hotel Boutique Villa Gala

Salvador Dali's house in Portlligat was one of the hightlights of our trip. Visiting the house of this amazing artist, seeing where he lived and worked and the things that inspired him felt like a privilege. Salvador Dali chose to put his house right at the waters edge on the tranquil bay in Portlligat, a place where he lived and worked from 1930 to 1982. Every single corner of the house is full of bizarre and weird things that reflect Dali's work. I promise you, you've never seen a place like this.

Cap de Creus natural park is paradise for nature lovers. Here you will find hiking trails, secluded coves and a lighthouse. You can reach the lighthouse by bus until 8pm when the road opens to the public. Since many people want to see the sunset there, it gets really busy and the road is very narrow and parking is limited. So you may consider using the bus service. You can find a restaurant with live music by the lighthouse. The experience is really cool but the food is overpriced.

Costa Brava itinerary: Day 5

Aiguablava beach -literally blue (blava) water (aigua)- is a must in Begur. It´s a small beach with crystalline waters. Its shallow waters and golden sand make it one of the most famous and beautiful beaches on the Costa Brava. Located on the Begur coastline it boasts spectacular views of the bay and the cape of Begur.

Tip: this is a very small beach and due to the pandemic access to Aiguablava beach is limited. Get there as early as you can to avoid queuing. 

Where to eat: Mar i Vent Paradores restaurant's terrace overlooks the crystalline waters of the sea and the golden sand of the beach. The amazing views combined with the quality of Paradores make this place a must.

Where to stay: Parador d'Aiguablava is a balcony over the Mediterranean Sea. If that wasn't appealing enough, this hotel also offers some of the nicest beaches, the best traditional cuisine and great views. 

Costa Brava itinerary map

This Costa Brava map includes the best towns and places to see in the area, amazing restaurants and hotels to stay in. Click on the star next to the title to save to your maps in Google and take it with you on your trip.

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Check out the best places in Costa Brava on my YouTube channel

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