New Year’s Eve in Madrid: What to do and where to go

Madrid always knows how to throw a celebration, but the city’s late-night culture is in its element on New Year’s Eve. From partaking in time-honored customs like eating twelve grapes at midnight in Puerta del Sol to embracing epic parties that last past dawn, New Year’s Eve in Madrid offers cultural experiences and top-notch festivities.

Whether it’s a sophisticated classical concert at Teatro Real, a lively street celebration in Plaza Oriente, or a tapas dinner in Malasana, there are so many fun things to do in the Spanish capital to mark the end of the year. Here’s your ultimate guide to how to spend New Year’s Eve in Madrid.

Everything you need to know about New Year’s Eve in Madrid

New Year’s Eve fireworks: Puerta del Sol and Plaza Mayor offer some of the best views.
Best free New Year’s Eve activity: The grape-eating ritual at Puerta del Sol.
Average temperature: 37-50 F (3-10 C).
What to avoid on New Year’s Eve: Avoid touristy areas like Gran Vía, which get very busy after 11:00 PM.

1. Join the grape-eating tradition at Puerta del Sol

Embrace New Year’s Eve in Madrid with the most famous tradition: eating twelve grapes, one for each stroke of midnight. Thousands gather in Puerta del Sol, the Spanish capital’s central square, to partake in this fun ritual that promises good luck for the coming year.

Insider tip

Choose small, seedless grapes to make the midnight challenge easier and be able to keep up with the clock’s chimes.

Address

Puerta del Sol, 28013 Madrid.

Opening hours

Open daily, 24/7.

2. Sign up for (or watch) the San Silvestre Vallecana run

Winter in Madrid is mild, offering ideal running conditions for the San Silvestre Vallecana run, one of Madrid’s most popular sporting events. This 10k run weaves through the city and offers general entry, plus options for pro runners and kids.

Highlights

Runners traditionally dress in fun outfits, turning the route into a festive parade.

3. Watch the fireworks in Plaza Mayor

Madrid’s historic Plaza Mayor has hosted everything from theatre productions to big soccer games. On New Year’s Eve, it adds another notch to its belt and hosts an epic fireworks display. Grab a churros con chocolate (delicious fried dough sticks dipped in chocolate) from one of the surrounding cafés and mingle with the buzzing crowd.

Insider tip

Arrive before 11:30 PM, or even a couple of hours early, to secure a good viewing spot; the fireworks start at midnight.

Address

Pl. Mayor, Centro, 28012 Madrid.

Opening hours

Open daily, 24/7.

4. Take a tapas tour of Malasaña

Trendy Malasaña is the perfect Madrid neighborhood to hole up in if you’re seeking an authentic New Year’s Eve experience — the area’s countless bars and restaurants are buzzing with energy, and you can join in with street celebrations as you please. Join a tapas tour, where a local guide will take you to the best spots in the neighborhood.

Insider tip

Wear comfortable shoes to quickly move from venue to venue and be able to dance the night away.

Address

Malasaña, Centro, 28004 Madrid.

Opening hours

Open daily, 24/7

5. Enjoy an impromptu celebration in Plaza de Oriente

While the Royal Palace of Madrid isn’t open on December 31, its intricate Baroque architecture is illuminated beautifully by lights and fireworks. One of the most laidback things to do in Madrid on New Year’s Eve is head to the surrounding square, Plaza de Oriente and enjoy a drink.

Insider tip

Stock up on snacks and drinks beforehand, as shops nearby can get busy.

Address

Plaza de Oriente, 28013 Madrid.

Opening hours

Open daily, 24/7.

6. Go to the New Year’s Eve concert at Teatro Real

The prestigious Teatro Real (a famous opera house) is one of the most beautiful places to watch a concert in Madrid, and it hosts an annual classical music performance on December 31. It’s perfect if you’re seeking a glamorous way to ring in the new year — some of the world’s most acclaimed opera singers and composers play here.

Insider tip

Make sure to dress formally; black tie is appropriate.

Address

Pl. de Isabel II, Centro, 28013 Madrid.

Opening hours

The concert typically begins at 8:00 PM or 10:00 PM on December 31.

7. Party the night away in one of Madrid’s iconic clubs

Unlike other cities where events and parties wind down by 2.00 AM, Madrid is just getting the night started. Whether you’re after a glamorous venue (like Shoko or Gabana) or an underground rave (look to Fabrik or Goya Social Club), there’s an epic party for everyone in Madrid on New Year’s Eve.

Insider tip

Most big clubs have ATMs, but the queues can get long, so bring cash for the cloakroom and potentially drinks.

New Year’s Eve in Madrid: FAQs

Do I need tickets for New Year’s Eve events in Madrid?

Most club nights and concerts are ticketed and need to be booked in advance. However, there are many free things to do in Madrid on New Year’s Eve, like counting down to midnight in Puerta del Sol or joining in street celebrations in Malasana.

What’s the best way to get around Madrid on New Year’s Eve?

Walking or taking the Metro (which runs late) is the most efficient way to get around Madrid on New Year’s Eve. Avoid driving, taking taxis, or taking the bus in the center, as many streets are closed for celebrations.

Where can I avoid the crowds in Madrid on New Year’s Eve?

Consider quieter neighborhoods like Chamberí or explore smaller local bars away from central areas.

Are any parts of Madrid closed on New Year’s Eve?

Some streets are closed to cars. Most attractions remain open, but check the opening times in advance as they may vary.

Where’s the best place to watch the fireworks in Madrid?

Plaza Mayor and Puerta del Sol offer the best views of the midnight fireworks.