Weather In Madrid In December, Climate, Wardrobe, and Wonders

The Ultimate Guide to Weather in Madrid in December

December in Madrid brings a magical atmosphere. The city is full of lights, all the shops decorate the store fronts and bring out the holiday cheer.

Discover what to expect in terms of weather and how to make the most of your visit during this festive month.

I like Madrid any month of the year, but I really love December in Madrid. I have lived here for a decade and still get as excited seeing the city over the festive period every time.

The weather can be a little tricky in December. You would think it to be cold the entire month, but when the sun comes out and you are sitting on a terrace you can actually get away with a t-shirt at times !!

Let me tell you what the weather is like in Madrid in December. I will give you a few pointers on what to wear, what to pack from the point of someone that lives here.

Average Temperature in Madrid in December:

Madrid has mild winter temperatures in December, with average highs around 12°C (54°F) and lows around 3°C (37°F). It’s not the coldest month of the year, but the air can be quite crisp so you need to be prepared.

What It Feels Like:

Madrid in December is perfect for the Xmas/New Year period. It’s cold enough that you feel like new years are around the corner, but not so cold that you can’t enjoy a nice day out. With all the festivities around the city, it’s a really joyful atmosphere here in Madrid.

What to wear in Madrid in December

Daytime:

During the day, layering is key. As I mentioned, when the sun comes out in Madrid, it warms up really fast. You want to have a few layers on so you can adjust to the temperature as the day goes on.
A medium-weight jacket or coat, a sweater and a scarf, and even a T-shirt underneath will keep you comfortable while exploring the city. The sun can go in and out on cloudier days though, so you want to have the option to put a jacket on when the need calls.

Evening/Night:

As evening comes, without the sun the temperatures dip quite quickly.If you plan on being out in the evening to stroll through all of the festive markets around town, don´t forget to have a pair of gloves and a hat to keep you warm.
There are plenty of places open late into the night where you can get yourself a nice hot chocolate, but Madrid is a great city for walking. Better to be prepared than to

What to pack for Madrid in December:

You are going to have to pack a bag to cater for day and night in Madrid. You will need to have a number of layers mixing warm and lighter fabrics. Always have comfortable shoes in Madrid as you will be walking a lot for sure.

Oh, don’t forget to pack an umbrella. It doesn’t rain very often in Madrid, but when it does it can be a little intense, so just pack a brolly.

I would also suggest you pack a spare backpack to walk around with during the day. Carry your water, snacks, to put your shopping. Walking around town with shopping bags all day is a little laborious.

Activities and Events in Madrid in December:

December is the month when Madrid truly comes alive with holiday festivities.

Explore Christmas markets, artisan markets, witness the stunning lights on Gran Vía, Plaza Mayor, Calle Alcala and attend traditional events like the Feast of the Immaculate Conception.

Check out this post for a few more ideas of things to do in Madrid in December.

Local Insights:

I can tell you what me and my family tend to do in December in Madrid. It’s different when you live in a city and when you visit. On a trip, you want to see all of the highlights of a city, the main attractions, but getting around like a local has its charms too.

So when it’s high festive time, we will take a walk down Calle Alcala toward the centre of Madrid, have a look at some of the shops, take a few pictures with the kids for memories, maybe get a pastry from one of the many bakeries along the way.

We always stop off at Plaza de Colon, because there is an artisan market that sets up here every year. We always get some of the mulled wine and the kids spend an hour on the ice skating rink. Yes there’s an ice rink here every year!

Then from here we would walk along the Paseo de Recoletos where another artisan market sets up every year.

Like that, we just walk around the centre going around neighbourhoods enjoying the festivities of each. But we always circle back around and in the evening with some hot chocolate and Churros.

Special Tips:

-Check out the dazzling light displays at Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor.
-Go see a Flamenco show.
-Attend a traditional Spanish Christmas Eve dinner for an authentic experience.
-Take a walking tour of Madrid.
Embrace the festive markets for unique gifts and local crafts.

Conclusion:

December in Madrid offers a mix of winter charm and festive celebrations. Embrace the cool weather, indulge in holiday traditions, and make lasting memories in this vibrant city.

There is so much to do, to see, to eat! Whatever it is you enjoy doing, there will be something for you and the whole family in Madrid in December.

Plan your December getaway to Madrid and experience the magic of the holiday season. I would really like it if you shared your experiences down in the comments to help others have a great time too !