If you’re looking for a magical plan this Christmas, seeing Madrid’s Christmas lights is an unmissable experience. Imagine getting on a comfortable minibus or coach, relaxing, and letting yourself be carried away by the glow and festive magic of the capital’s city center. With Autocares Julià, you can enjoy it in the most comfortable and safest way, with a panoramic tour through the city’s most illuminated landmarks.
In this article, you’ll find everything you need to know to enjoy Madrid’s Christmas Lights Tour — from when they’re switched on to which streets to visit — with options for both visitors and locals looking for a special plan.
When are the Christmas lights switched on in Madrid 2025?
The grand switch-on ceremony will take place in Plaza de Cibeles on Saturday, November 22, 2025.
According to city officials, over 240 locations across Madrid’s 21 districts will be illuminated, with more than 13 million LED bulbs lighting up the streets.
How long do the Christmas lights stay on?
The Christmas lights in Madrid usually remain on until Epiphany Day (January 6).
Why take a private coach tour right after the switch-on?
Experiencing Christmas in Madrid is something truly special — and doing so from the comfort of a private coach turns it into an unforgettable memory.
Here’s why it’s the perfect moment to enjoy the tour:
- Avoid public transport on cold or rainy days and skip the usual crowds in the city center.
- The freshly decorated streets shine brighter and are less crowded.
- The driver makes strategic stops so you can capture the best photos of the Christmas lights.
- Our team helps design the ideal route, suggesting the most emblematic points of the city.
- You can add a local guide to accompany you, share interesting facts, and reveal the secrets behind Madrid’s festive lights.
- Our fleet of modern, versatile coaches and minibuses adapts perfectly to the size of your group.
✨ Perfect for first-time visitors and locals who want to rediscover Madrid under its magical Christmas lights.
📩 Contact us and our team will tailor the itinerary for you: [email protected]
Can you see all the lights in one route?
Yes — in a 1 to 2-hour route, you can cover the main illuminated streets such as Gran Vía, Serrano, and Puerta del Sol.
If you wish to include areas farther away, like the Royal Botanical Garden or residential neighborhoods, we recommend extending the tour to 2 or 3 hours.
What’s the best time to see the Christmas lights?
From 6:00–7:00 p.m. onward, once the sun sets, the true magic begins.
Most Madrid Christmas Lights Tours start at dusk to make the most of the views. Keep in mind that weekends may have more traffic or temporary street closures.
Christmas lights route in Madrid: 4 must-see areas
1. Gran Vía: The bright heart of Madrid
Gran Vía is the city’s most iconic avenue, and during Christmas, it becomes a dazzling display of light and color.
Each year, the lighting designs change — featuring geometric motifs, stars, or constellations stretching from Plaza de España to Alcalá Street.
Highlights include the Capitol Building and Plaza de Callao, where the lights blend with giant screens. Don’t miss Montera Street and Red de San Luis, which connect with other beautifully decorated pedestrian streets.
2. Serrano street and Salamanca district
The Salamanca District, especially Serrano Street, offers a calmer and more elegant atmosphere. Minimalist golden, white, and blue garlands dominate the scene.
Notable points include Plaza de Colón, Jorge Juan, and Ortega y Gasset Streets, where luxury shop windows compete in creativity.
It’s the perfect area for a more exclusive or intimate Madrid Christmas Lights Tour.
3. Puerta del Sol and surroundings
Puerta del Sol is the epicenter of Madrid’s Christmas celebrations.
Its 35-meter-tall LED Christmas tree is one of the most photographed winter symbols in the city.
The nearby Mayor, Preciados, and Carrera de San Jerónimo streets are covered with hanging light canopies, creating a magical atmosphere.
Each year, the tree’s design changes — sometimes transparent, sometimes interactive, often sponsored by major brands.
4. Jardín Botánico: Naturaleza Encendida
Although it’s not part of the traditional coach circuit, the Royal Botanical Garden’s light show, known as Naturaleza Encendida, deserves a special mention.
The event transforms the garden into a luminous forest with tunnels, glowing sculptures, and moving projections.
Each edition features a different theme — such as Origins, Explorium, or Insects — making it one of Madrid’s most original festive attractions.
It’s an excellent complement to the bus tour, especially for families or those seeking a more artistic experience.
What is a Christmas lights coach tour in Madrid like?
It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to enjoy Madrid’s festive atmosphere without worrying about transport or logistics.
It’s also perfect for locals looking for a private Christmas Lights Tour with total comfort — no traffic stress, no parking hassles.
With Autocares Julià, you can choose between:
- 22-seater minibus hire, perfect for sharing with friends, family or work colleagues.
- Rental of modern coaches Autocares Julià ranging from 15 to 70 seats. All journeys are carried out by expert drivers, committed to providing a comfortable and safe travel experience.
- Premium minibuses (Mercedes Sprinter and Mago2 models), designed to offer maximum comfort, elegance and safety. Perfect for groups who value an exclusive travel experience and a superior level of comfort.
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Both services include custom-designed routes through the city’s main illuminated areas, with hotel or meeting-point pickup. You can also combine the tour with visits to Christmas markets or shopping areas to complete your festive experience.
📧 For more information or tailor-made bookings, contact our team at [email protected]
