Things to do in Madrid

Visit Madrid in January, experience the city’s winter charm

Last Updated:

Fashionable. Trendy. Beautiful. Historical. Madrid is like all your dream destinations rolled into one. The seat of power in Spain for millennia, Madrid has steadily evolved from a paradise for history aficionados to a city for everyone. Today, Madrid is a bustling metropolitan that also houses majestic modern art centers, delicious restaurants, and iconic nightclubs. You can visit the Spanish capital throughout the year, but January is a calmer time. Head to the city in January for a magical vacation.

What makes Madrid in January special?


madrid in august

    Madrid is delightful in January. Unlike most European cities, Madrid's weather is bearable in January. It isn't freezing cold, so you can go out and explore the city whenever you feel like it. There are also fewer tourists around Madrid in January. It allows you to explore the city's restaurants, historical sites, art museums, and gardens at your convenience.

Madrid in January: Weather


Unlike most places in Europe, the cold in Madrid is bearable in January. It is chilly but mild, giving ample opportunity to explore the city. The average temperature is around 6°C, with highs hitting 10°C and lows touching 1°C. Nights are chillier and can lead to snowfall in the mountains and frost in the city. Rain is irregular, but you must prepare for showers when leaving your room.

Must-dos in January


1

Prado Museum

madrid in august


Museo Nacional del Prado, or the Prado Museum, is the center of art in Madrid. It is located inside an 18th-century Neoclassical building, an attraction in itself. Inside the museum building, you'll find over 20,000 artworks by legendary figures like Francisco Goya, El Greco, Peter Paul Rubens, and Titian.

January timings
Monday to Saturday from 10 AM -8 PM
Sundays and public holidays from 10 AM to 7 PM
Closed on January 1 and limited opening hours on January 6, from 10 AM - 2 PM

madrid in august

C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›

2

El Escorial

madrid in august


A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Site of San Lorenzo of El Escorial is the definition of magnificence and beauty. The startling palace was once the home of King Philip II of Spain but was later also used as a monastery, basilica, and educational institute.

January timings
Tuesday to Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM
Weekly closing: Mondays
January 1 & 6: Closed the entire day

madrid in august

Av Juan de Borbón y Battemberg, s/n, 28200 San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid, Spain
Getting There ›

3

Reina Sofia Museum

madrid in august


With more than 3.5 million annual visitors, Reina Sofia Museum is among Spain's most-visited museums. It is the center of 20th-century art in the country, featuring hundreds of paintings and sculptures by Salvador Dali and Pablo Picasso. Don't miss 'Guernica,' an iconic black-and-white oil painting by Picasso.

January timings
Monday, Wednesday-Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM
Sunday from 10 AM to 2:30 PM
Weekly closing: Tuesdays
Closed on Janaury 1 & 6, 2024

Location

C. de Sta. Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›

4

Atlantis Aquarium

madrid in august


Visit the Atlantis Aquarium to wonder at the marvelous life underwater. A state-of-the-art aquarium spread over 6,000 square meters, the Atlantis Aquarium Madrid introduces you to Juanito penguins, moon jellyfish, gray sharks, cow nose-stripped rays, and clownfish. You'll also learn more about sustainable development and the importance of biodiversity conversation.

January timings
Monday to Thursday from 12 PM to 8 PM
Friday & Sunday from 12 PM to 9 PM
Saturday from 12 PM to 10 PM

Location

C. Puerto de Navacerrada, 28939 Arroyomolinos, Madrid, Spain
Getting There ›

5

Royal Palace of Madrid

madrid in august


The Royal Palace of Madrid is the pride of Spain. The largest functioning palace in Europe, the Royal of Madrid, has a grand and beautiful exterior, while the interior is lined up with beautiful 16th-century Baroque architecture. Wander through the palace's halls and admire the frescoes, tapestries, and decorative motifs decorating on the walls.

January timings
Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM
Sunday from 10 AM - 4 PM (last entry at 3 PM)
Weekly closing: Tuesdays
Closed on Janaury 1 & 6, 2024

Location

C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›

6

Day Trip to Guadarrama National Park

madrid in august


Guadarrama National Park is a must-visit if you crave adventure. Guadarrama mountains were only declared a national park in 2013, yet it became the 2nd most visited park in Spain. The journey across mountain trails, pine forests, creeks, and meadows will delight your soul and make you fall in love with these beautiful Madrid mountains.

7

Hop-on Hop-off tour

madrid in august


A bus tour is an excellent way to experience the best of Madrid in one go. You can explore the best of old and new Madrid with a hop-on-hop-off bus pass. Choose between historical sites like the National Archaeological Museum or modern places like the Santiago Bernabéu and Nuevos Ministerios.

January timings

Route 1: Historical Madrid
• The first bus is at 10:00 AM from Museo del Prado, and the last bus is at 6:00 PM.
• Buses ply every 20-30 minutes.
• Last ride at 4:40 PM from stop N°1.

Route 2: Modern Madrid

• The first bus is at 10:00 AM from Plaza de Neptuno, and the last bus is at 6:00 PM.
• Buses ply every 20-30 minutes.
• Last ride at 4:50 PM from N°1.

8

Santiago Bernabeu tours

madrid in august


The home of the great Real Madrid C.F., Santiago Bernabéu is one of the biggest football stadiums in Europe. It is grand and historical, witnessing some of the best football games in European football history. A tour of the stadium and its museum will give you insight into its grandeur.

January timings
Daily from 9:30 AM to 2 PM
Closed on January 1, 2024

Location

Av. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›

9

Parque de Atracciones

madrid in august


Parque de Atracciones de Madrid is the center of fun in Madrid. It was opened in 1967 but is like any modern theme park, filled with thrilling rides and slides. You'll love motorbiking on the Tifón, free falling from 63 meters on La Lanzadera and the cartoon-themed rides in Nickelodeon-Land.

Location

Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid, Spain
Getting There ›

Madrid in January: Events to look out for


madrid in jan

Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos

January 5, 2024
Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos is a yearly celebration for children in Madrid. It is a festive parade celebrating the arrival of the Three Kings, who pass through popular areas in the city.

madrid in jan

Balkrishna Doshi. Architecture for All

October 5, 2023 - January 14, 2024
In celebration of the iconic Indian architect, Balkrishna Vithaldas Doshi, the "Architecture for All" exhibition showcases the relevance of his architecture on society and his relationship with local culture and traditions. On display at ICO Museum, pay a visit to understand Sir Doshi's work and philosophy.

madrid in jan

Inverfest

Janaury 6 - February 4, 2024
In its 10th edition, Inverfest is a series of winter concerts, taking place at multiple venues across the city. Some of the big names in this edition are Miguel Poveda, Iván Ferreiro, Ismael Serrano, Marwan, Sidonie, Morgan and Valeria Castro. Over the four weeks Inverfest will have performances including cabaret, symphony music, flamenco and some classic rock.

madrid in august

FITUR 2024

January 24-28, 2024
The International Tourism Trade Fair (FITUR) is a global meeting point for tourism professionals. It is also attended by the general public (allowed only on January 27-28, 2024), curious to discover the range of destinations that can be visited at the fair over the weekend. In its 2024 edition, FITUR's partner country is Ecuador. Book your fair tickets here.

Madrid in Janaury: Essentials


?

LanguageSpanish

?

Time zoneGMT+2

☎

Country Code+34

?

Socket Type C & F

?

CurrencyEuro (€)

Weather

Winter is in full swing in Madrid in January. However, the cold is bearable, so you can explore the city at your convenience. The average temperature is around 6°C, with daytime temperatures hitting 10°C and evenings seeing temperatures up to 1°C. Rain is irregular and unevenly spread throughout the month.

What to pack in August

• Madrid is chilly in January. Carry thermals, jackets, and warm clothes to keep out the cold.

• Avoid wearing slippers as it will expose your feet to the cold. Instead opt for a pair of shoes with socks.

• Rain is irregular in January. It is hard to predict and might affect your travel plans. An umbrella can help.

• If you're not used to cold weather, also bright gloves and caps to protect your hand and head Why bright? A fashion choice only.

Where to stay

Madrid offers diverse accommodation options to help travelers with different budgets enjoy a comfortable stay.

Getting around

Madrid offers a comfortable commute. The public transportation system in the city is among the best in Europe. You have several options, including:

Bus - Buses in Madrid operate almost throughout the day. The city has a fleet of 2,000 buses covering over 200 different lines.

Madrid Metro - Madrid has one of Europe's longest metro networks. It is fast, efficient, and connects most of the city.

Madrid Cercanías - Madrid Cercanías is Madrid's commuter rail service that connects the city with small towns in the Community of Madrid and other provinces.

Madrid in January: What to eat?


madrid i august
Roscón De Reyes

Dedicated to the Three Kings Day, the Roscón De Reyes, or "Kings' Cake," is a bread that consists of anise, sugar, and candied fruits. A few restaurants also add whipped cream and chocolate.
Where to eat: El Riojano

madrid i august
Scallops

Seafood is always in fashion in Madrid. Scallops are one of the more popular seafood options in January. You can order either large vieiras or smaller variegated scallops called zamburiñas.
Where to eat: EL CUCURUCHO DEL MAR

madrid i august
Broad Bean

If you're looking for a delicious yet healthy option, go with a broad bean. The protein-rich green bean has good antioxidant content and is also rich in fiber and vitamins B1 and B2.
Where to eat: DSTAgE

madrid i august
Blackspot Seabream

The only seasonal wild fish in Madrid in January, Blackspot sea bream, or besugo, is a mid-size fish roasted whole and served with roasted potatoes.
Where to eat: Restaurante Ogrelo

madrid i august
Salads

Salads are fun in Madrid in January. Escarole, a bitter type of lettuce, is in season in Madrid throughout winter. You can add it to your salads to give them a spicy taste.
Where to eat: Casa Benigna

Madrid in January: Visiting Tips


  • The Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range is close to Madrid. It is covered with snow in January, giving you the perfect skiing opportunity.
  • Madrid is quiet in January. There are fewer tourists around, so everything feels calm. It is an excellent time for a casual walk in the park. Feel the city air as you relax in the middle of the Spanish capital.
  • It's cold in Madrid in January. But that also means you can have multiple rounds of hot chocolate. Enjoy it with some churros and cozy up in your bed.

Madrid in January Itinerary


If you have 3 days to spend in madrid, we have put together the perfect itinerary to give you the best experience in the city.

  • Day 1 in Madrid: Reina Sofia Museum, Prado, Plaza Mayor and El Retiro Park
  • Day 2 in Madrid: Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, Wanda Metropolitano Stadium, Metro Cable Car 
  • Day 3 in Madrid: Day Trip to Toledo and Segovia

FAQs


What is the weather like in Madrid in January?

Madrid is cold in January. The average temperature is around 6°C, with daytime temperatures hitting 10°C and evenings seeing temperatures up to 1°C. Rain is irregular but adds to the cold.

What should I pack for my trip to Madrid in January?

Warm clothes, jackets, comfortable shoes, and an umbrella are a few essentials to pack for your trip to Madrid in January.

What activities can I do in Madrid in January?

Skiing, snowboarding, and restaurant hopping are a few activities you can do in Madrid in January.

Are there any events or festivals happening in Madrid in January?

There are fewer crowds in Madrid in January. Accommodation and travel prices are comparatively lower, making Madrid an excellent budget destination.

What are some tips for enjoying Madrid in January?

Here are a few tips to make the most of Madrid in January:

  • Go skiing in the Sierra de Guadarrama mountain range.

  • Take a peaceful walk in a park.

  • Drink hot chocolate with churros.

How can I make the most of my trip to Madrid in January?

Here are a few things to do to enjoy your trip to Madrid in January:

  • Book your tickets to leading attractions online.

  • Pack according to the weather.

  • Create a rough itinerary listing the things you want to do.