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 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.
January Weather in Madrid
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
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
C. de Ruiz de Alarcón, 23, 28014 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›
2
El Escorial
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
Monday closed
Av Juan de Borbón y Battemberg, s/n, 28200 San Lorenzo de El Escorial, Madrid, Spain
Getting There ›
3
Reina Sofia Museum
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, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday from 10 AM to 9 PM
Sunday from 10 AM to 2:30 PM
Tuesday closed
C. de Sta. Isabel, 52, 28012 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›
4
Atlantis Aquarium
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 from 12 PM to 9 PM
Saturday from 12 PM to 10 PM
Sunday from 12 PM to 9 PM
C. Puerto de Navacerrada, 28939 Arroyomolinos, Madrid, Spain
Getting There ›
5
Royal Palace of Madrid
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 decorated on the walls.
January Timings
Monday to Saturday from 10 AM to 6 PM
Sunday from 10 AM to 4 PM
C. de Bailén, s/n, 28071 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›
6
Day Trip to Guadarrama National Park
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
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.
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.
Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›
8
Santiago Bernabeu Tours
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
Monday to Saturday from 9:30 AM to 7 PM
Sunday and holidays from 10 AM to 6:30 PM
Closed on January 1
Av. de Concha Espina, 1, 28036 Madrid,
Spain
Getting There ›
9
Parque de Atracciones
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.
Casa de Campo, s/n, 28011 Madrid, Spain
Getting There ›
Events in January
Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos
January 5
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.
Chinese New Year
January 22
The entire city of Madrid celebrates the Chinese New Year with the Chinese community. The annual festival, which dates back 4000 years, marks the end of winter and the arrival of the new season.
Games of Thrones Exhibition
Games of Thrones Exhibition
Game of Thrones may have ended, but the fanfare lives on. Visit the Game of Thrones Exhibition at Madrid's IFEMA anytime during January to see set pieces, costumes, and props from the show.
Nikola Tesla, the genius of modern electricity
Until January 8
Nikola Tesla left a lasting mark on the world. The exhibition celebrates his life work that changed humanity at the CaixaForum Madrid from September 29 to January 8.
Madrid Essentials in January
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 your feet might get exposed to the cold. Wear 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.
Where to stay
Madrid offers diverse accommodation options to help travelers with different budgets enjoy a comfortable stay.
- Budget -SLEEP'N Atocha, Suites Viena, Plaza De Espana Hotel Nuevo Boston
- Mid-range places - Hotel Cortezo, Room Mate Mario, One Shot Prado 23
- Luxury - Gran Hotel Ingles, Hotel Urban, The Principal Madrid
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.
What to eat?
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
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
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
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
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
Tips for Visiting Madrid in August
- 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.
FAQs
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.
Warm clothes, jackets, comfortable shoes, and an umbrella are a few essentials to pack for your trip to Madrid in January.
Skiing, snowboarding, and restaurant hopping are a few activities you can do 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.
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.
Madrid is cold in January. Avoid visiting the city without warm clothing. Also, there are fewer tourists in January, so accommodation, food, and travel prices are comparatively lower. Avoid paying peak season prices in January.
