Undoubtedly, one of the most popular destinations around the globe is Spain’s capital city. It’s the country’s art and financial hub, which helps make it a favorite for tourists all over the world. Its colorful architecture, beautiful city layout, and attractions are a sight to behold all year round. However, if you haven’t considered visiting the city during the winter, here is a case for making that the next item on your bucket list.
Accommodation during the winter
The temperature in Madrid during the winter can go as low as zero in some instances. However, it rarely snows. Finding the right accommodation then, is one of the most important factors in how your stay will be. The city, and for good reason, is known for its magnificent architecture, which shines all year round. However, sorting out accommodation as a visitor can be tricky, as you need a good place to get comfy during cold nights and misty mornings.
A very good option is to rent a serviced apartment, like an Ukio apartment in Madrid, which is fully furnished. Basic amenities that you get from these apartments include safe surroundings, Internet service, hot water, and many nearby restaurants, as their locations are carefully selected. These apartments can be rented for as long as eleven months and are located all around the city. Depending on your budget, there are also penthouses to rent within the city if you desire a more luxurious experience.
Winter festivals and Christmas
The wealth of Christmas lights and decorations that overrun every city square is a sight many travelers look forward to, and it’s one of the reasons why you should visit Madrid during winter. Christmas is widely and richly celebrated across the city during this time. If you’re new to the city, you can join the famous Navibus for an information-packed ride. In about fifty minutes, the Navibus, also known as the Christmas bus, drives you around the city to give you a tour of its iconic buildings.
You also get to see famous plazas and the beautiful cityscapes. The trip takes place every day and starts at Plaza Colón, so you do not need to worry about missing it as long as you’re spending more than a day in the city.
Apart from Christmas, Madrid also has its own indigenous annual winter festivals, which start with the Puerta del Sol at the end of the year. Around January 5th, you can make your way to the Kings Day parade, which is a widely celebrated winter event. In February, the popular Madrid carnival takes place, where you can see the native art and beautiful culture of the city.
Ice skating and fun activities
There are several outdoor activities that you can take part in during the winter in Madrid. Top of the list is visiting a ski resort. You don’t need to be an expert, as you can learn on the go. All you need is determination and a willingness to have fun. Aside from this, Madrid is a famous footballing city. You can enjoy watching the league from your luxury serviced apartment or choose to visit any of the magnificent stadiums to see a live match.
Food, shopping, and sightseeing
No vacation or tour is complete without appreciating the local cuisine of your destination. Thankfully, Spaniards have one of the most impressive varieties of cuisines in the world. The city is also filled with luxury restaurants where you can enjoy local and foreign dishes.
During winter in Madrid, chocolate and churros are some food items you shouldn’t miss out on. Since it’s cold during this time, you will find a long queue of people waiting to be served hot chocolate from famous restaurants like San Gines. You can buy them and drink them instantly or take them to enjoy in your fancy apartment.
If shopping is your favorite pastime, Madrid is filled with several traditional markets and plazas. Going to shops and markets during this season comes with quite a number of benefits. Top of the list is that you get Christmas discounts on several items. You also get to see rare items and antiques for sale, including some up for auction.
Visiting Madrid in winter also allows you to go on a sightseeing spree. Your to-do list should include visiting famous places and museums, as the city is filled with plenty of them. From the Prada museum to the Tabacalera, you can’t run out of exciting places to visit.
Conclusion
The coldest months in Madrid fall between December and February, with the peak being New Year’s Eve and the few days that follow it. The temperature can fall to around zero during these times, but other things that usually fall are travel and food prices. Besides, winter doesn’t cover up the city’s numerous attractions and edifices. However, before you embark on your journey, make sure you pack a bag filled with cozy blankets, thick socks, good walking shoes, and heavy jackets. Also, remember to be on the lookout for some of the affordable monthly rentals in Madrid that’ll ensure you have a fun-filled and memorable visit.
