Easter transforms Madrid into a vibrant celebration of faith and culture. The city comes alive with religious processions, festive meals, and age-old traditions that draw both locals and visitors to its historic streets. Whether you're planning a quick visit or settling in for the full Holy Week experience, Madrid's Easter celebrations offer something special for everyone. From the solemn beauty of candlelit processions to the sweet aroma of traditional Easter treats, each moment adds to the city's unique springtime charm. Let me guide you through the essential experiences that will make your Easter visit to Madrid truly unforgettable.
Easter in Madrid, 2025
Easter in Madrid this year falls on April 20. Starting on Palm Sunday (April 13, 2025) and concluding Easter Sunday (April 20, 2025), the Holy week or Semana Santa is an eventful period full of religious ceremonies, concerts, and countless other entertainment opportunities.
During this special time, you'll find the city alive with religious ceremonies, concerts, and entertainment. The highlight of Semana Santa is undoubtedly the processions, where local brotherhoods parade through Madrid's streets in traditional costumes, carrying beautiful statues and singing religious songs. Both Maundy Thursday and Good Friday are public holidays, giving everyone a chance to participate in these moving celebrations.
If you're visiting during Easter, you'll want to try some of Madrid's seasonal specialties. Look for traditional dishes like cod omelette and roasted lamb, or satisfy your sweet tooth with pestiños (fried pastries) and torrijas (Spanish-style French toast). While you're exploring the city, pop into local shops for unique souvenirs – from handmade crafts and Easter sweets to religious items like candles and statues.
Easter in Madrid: Traditions & Festivities
Easter in Madrid is full of centuries-old traditions, religious ceremonies and festive celebrations. The celebrations begin with La Borriquita on Palm Sunday, where people carry palm branches through the streets, starting at the beautiful Almudena Cathedral. Throughout Holy Week (Semana Santa), locals and visitors can watch impressive processions featuring religious statues carried on wooden platforms called tronos. The atmosphere is especially moving on Maundy Thursday and Good Friday, when worshippers gather for evening processions and midnight celebrations.
The festivities aren't just about solemn ceremonies – there's plenty of joy to go around! Easter Sunday starts with Mass, followed by family gatherings for traditional meals. You might even catch a fun egg-cracking competition called 'pascua.' The food during Easter is a treat in itself, with specialties like torrijas (Spanish-style French toast) and buñuelos de viento (cream-filled fried pastries). Don't miss the organ concerts at San Ginés Church, where classical music adds to the special atmosphere.
Easter in Madrid: Things to do
1. Go on a city tour of Madrid
Madrid is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in Europe, with a wealth of culture, history, and attractions to explore. Taking a city tour is an excellent way to get acquainted with the sights and sounds of Madrid. You can take guided walking tours that will lead you through various neighborhoods in Madrid and introduce you to some hidden gems that may not be featured on traditional city tours.
2. Witness La Borriquito procession
Experience the cultural beauty of Madrid as you observe La Borriquito, one of the city's most celebrated Easter processions. Commencing from Almudena Cathedral and Royal Palace, its path winds through downtown Madrid until it reaches Malasaña quarter. It truly is an experience not to be missed! The procession winds its way through various streets in central Madrid before coming to a halt outside the Church of San Isidro, where it is blessed by clergy and then continues back to its starting point. It's a beautiful sight to behold and is a great opportunity to witness some traditional Spanish culture during Easter week!
3. Miércoles Santo Procession (Holy Wednesday)
Holy Wednesday marks the midpoint of Easter celebrations in Madrid, and they are well underway. Around 7:30 PM on this day, the Archbishop preforms The Stations of the Resurrection Vía Crucis ceremony. Following shortly after that is a remarkable veneration conducted by the Brotherhood of "Cruzados de la Fe", who reverently remove their Christ icon Santísimo Cristo de la Fe from his resting place at Atocha 87 to perform a besapié - an act where his foot is kissed with much devotion.
4. Jueves Santo Procession (Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday)
The religious celebration of Jueves Santo (Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday) is one of the most captivating events that happens throughout Easter Week. Between 7:30-8 PM, locals gather outside Calle Toledo 37 to witness a spectacular moment where "costaleros" bring out two statues from Colegiata de San Isidro—the Virgin Maria Santísima de la Esperanza and Jesús del Gran Poder. As they carefully maneuver their way through the main door with great effort, cheers and applause erupt from those watching in admiration!
5. Sacred musical performances on Easter Sunday
Every year during Holy Week, Madrid is home to a traditional musical program. The Ciclo Música de Órgano, held at the Church of San Ginés (Arenal, 13) features performances from Bach and Boccherini. Spectators are wowed by beautiful Saetas before gathering for Easter Sunday's Tamborrada Maña celebration beginning with Plaza Mayor in Madrid, as drummers march throughout the city honouring Jesus Christ’s resurrection over three days after his death.
6. Head to Toledo for another unique Easter experience
The city of Toledo is a beautiful hilltop city located in Castilla-La Mancha and surrounded by the Tagus River. During the Easter period, the streets are filled with festivities that include processions and parades. The highlight of the easter celebrations in Toledo is attending the “Semana Santa” or Holy Week.
7. Catch the age old Passion Play at Chinchon
During Easter Week, the Spanish town of Chinchón in the Madrid region celebrates Jesus Christ's death and resurrection with a spectacular enactment. Upwards of 250 actors join in on this eventful occasion at dusk on Saturday (March 30) — taking place across many iconic locations throughout the city including Plaza Mayor Square, Town Hall, San Roque Square and Calvary. It is truly an awe-inspiring experience!
This traditional event has been a staple in the region since 1963, making it among the oldest of its type. The show is filled with dramatic scenes and vibrant colors set amidst an incredible setting that ends with what all attendees eagerly wait for: Jesus’ Resurrection. In La Asunción Church, Christ's Ascension is presented amid white smoke and doves - creating a powerful moment no one will soon forget.
8. Celebrate Easter with nature at Guadarrama National Park
Embark on an extraordinary day trip from Madrid and explore the majestic Guadarrama National Park, along with the timeless Manzanares el Real castle. Revel in nature's beauty as you take delight in its diverse wildlife, flora and fauna inhabiting Sierra de Guadarrama.
Easter in Madrid: Dining
Mona de Pascua
Mona de Pascua is an Easter tradition in Madrid. It's a sweet pastry that consists of a cake filled with marzipan, candied fruit, and topped with sugar icing. If you are visiting the city during Easter time, it would be a great idea to try some Mona de Pascua! It's usually found in most bakeries around town and is sure to make your day extra special. You can buy this at Pasteleria Villagarcia in Madrid.
Bacalao al pil-pil
Eating Bacalao al pil-pil in Madrid for Easter is a tradition that has been celebrated in the Spanish capital for centuries. This traditional dish of salted cod, olive oil, and garlic, is an important part of the festivities for locals and visitors alike. The combination of flavors makes it the perfect accompaniment to a festive meal during this special time of year. Head to Pil Pil Basque Cider House to have this delicious dish!
Torrijas
Get ready to fall in love with torrijas – an irresistibly delicious Spanish dessert that's a variation on French toast. During Semana Santa, it can be found in abundance all over Spain. Similar preparation is used for this delightful treat; however, there are several key differences: the addition of citrus zest like lemon or orange instead of vanilla extract and oil being utilized instead of butter when frying the bread slices. Some even prefer to dip them into wine for what's known as 'torrijas al vino'! Head to Asador Katuzarra to have some Torrijas!
Easter in Madrid: Weather
The weather in Madrid during Easter is usually mild with temperatures ranging from 8°C (46°F) to 20°C (68°F). Generally, the days are sunny and bright but there may be occasional showers. It's a great time for exploring the city and enjoying the outdoors. Many locals celebrate this holiday with traditional foods like paella, chocolate eggs and a variety of other delicacies. The streets of Madrid come alive during Easter as thousands of locals take part in colorful processions, special church services and lively celebrations. During this season, visitors can experience Spanish culture at its finest! All in all, it’s an ideal time to visit Madrid for those who want to enjoy some nice springtime weather while taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
Easter in Madrid: Visiting tips
- Visit Easter processions and take part in the popular festivities: Madrid offers a wealth of Easter celebrations, from grand religious events to street parties. Be sure to join in the festivities, as it is a great way to witness traditional customs and culture.
- Explore the city’s many attractions: Spring in Madrid is absolutely delightful for exploring the city's attractions. Take advantage of the pleasant weather to wander through the historic Plaza Mayor or spend a peaceful afternoon in the beautiful Retiro Park.
- Sample some delicious local cuisine: Your taste buds are in for a treat with Madrid's diverse culinary scene! While traditional tapas are a must-try, go beyond to savor modern Spanish dishes like Iberico ham and authentic paella. For the best food experiences, skip the tourist-heavy spots around Plaza Mayor and head to local-favorite neighborhoods like Chueca, Malasaña, and Ponzano.
- Shop for souvenirs: Easter is a great time to shop for souvenirs, as the city offers plenty of unique items from traditional Spanish products to modern designer pieces.
- Stay in a local guesthouse or Airbnb: Madrid’s accommodation options have many types of lodging, from luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses and Airbnbs. Staying in a local accommodation will allow you to get more immersed in the culture and atmosphere of Madrid during Easter.
- Explore the city at night: Madrid really comes alive at night during Easter, with plenty of restaurants and bars staying open late for customers. Take the opportunity to explore the beautiful city after dark for a truly unique experience.
