Holy Week 2025 in Madrid: a complete guide to activities and accommodation

Madrid prepares for Holy Week 2025 with a mix of tradition, art and culture that makes it an unmissable destination during this time of year. From 13 to 20 April 2025, the streets of the Spanish capital will be filled with processions, sacred music and an atmosphere that transports both locals and visitors through centuries of history. Beyond its religious significance, Holy Week in Madrid offers a wide range of gastronomic, cultural and leisure activities for all tastes.

Most important processions and religious events

One of the main attractions of Holy Week in Madrid is its processions, which pass through some of the city’s most iconic locations. These are some of the most notable:

• Palm Sunday (13 April). Procession of Nuestro Padre Jesús del Amor (La Borriquita): This procession, symbolising Jesus' triumphant entry into Jerusalem, is particularly popular among families and children. The image of Jesus riding a donkey makes its way through the streets of central Madrid, departing from the Parish of San Ildefonso.
• Holy Wednesday (16 April). Procession of Nuestro Padre Jesús de la Salud (Los Gitanos): This procession departs from the Parish of Nuestra Señora del Carmen y San Luis Obispo and follows a route through various streets in central Madrid, including the iconic Puerta del Sol. It is known for the deep devotion of its participants and the special atmosphere created along the way.
• Maundy Thursday (17 April). Procession of Jesús el Pobre: Departing from the Church of San Pedro el Viejo, this is one of the most moving processions of Madrid’s Holy Week. The image of Jesús el Pobre is accompanied by a large number of worshippers in a seven-hour-long route, stopping for a penitential station at the Colegiata de San Isidro. The most emotional moment comes when Jesús el Pobre and María del Dulce Nombre meet in the square outside the church, a ceremony filled with deep spiritual significance.
• Good Friday (18 April). Procession of Jesús de Medinaceli: One of Madrid's most crowded and traditional processions. The image of Jesús de Medinaceli is revered by thousands of devotees who accompany it through the main streets of central Madrid, setting off from the Basilica of Nuestro Padre Jesús de Medinaceli.
• Holy Saturday (19 April). Procession of La Soledad: This procession is preceded by a drum parade that departs from the Church of La Concepción de Calatrava. Later, from the Parish of San Ginés, the image of Nuestra Señora de la Soledad y Desamparo makes its way through the streets of central Madrid in an atmosphere of solemnity and reflection.

Accommodation in central Madrid for Holy Week: Ocean Drive Madrid

To fully enjoy Holy Week, it is essential to stay somewhere comfortable and well-located. Ocean Drive Madrid, in the Ópera district, offers an ideal experience with easy access to the city’s main attractions and the most important processions.

A prime location

Just a few minutes from the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor, our hotel allows you to explore Madrid on foot without the need for long journeys. Its contemporary design, combined with a warm and welcoming atmosphere, makes it the perfect choice for both tourists and travellers looking for an authentic city experience.

Exclusive facilities and services

• Mar Mia restaurant: a fusion of tradition and modernity with a unique gastronomic offering based on fresh, high-quality ingredients.
• Monthly art exhibitions: featuring both local and international artists, adding a cultural touch to your stay.
• Personalised service: the Ocean Drive Madrid team is dedicated to offering tailored attention to meet every guest’s needs.

If you want to make sure you have the best experience in Madrid during Holy Week, book your stay at Ocean Drive Madrid today and enjoy a prime location with all the comfort you need. Book here.

Madrid’s gastronomy: must-visit restaurants during Holy Week

Madrid offers a diverse and delicious culinary scene that becomes even more vibrant during Holy Week. Two standout restaurants with unique dining experiences are:

Pabblo Restaurante

Located in Torre Picasso, this venue has become a reference in Madrid’s gastronomy thanks to its innovative ambience and signature dishes. Its menu is inspired by seasonal ingredients and cutting-edge techniques to provide a unique experience for diners.

Ciriaco Brown

Situated in Lavapiés, this traditional liquor house blends classic style with a modern twist. It is ideal for those looking for an authentic experience in a cosy setting, offering an extensive selection of spirits and liqueurs.

Art and culture during Holy Week in Madrid 2025

Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza

The Museo Nacional Thyssen-Bornemisza is a must-visit in Madrid, known for its impressive permanent collection and remarkable temporary exhibitions. However, during Holy Week 2025, there are no scheduled exhibitions specifically dedicated to religious art or Christianity in painting.

For this period, highlights include:

• “Proust and the arts” (4 March–8 June), an exhibition exploring the relationship between the French writer and the world of art.
• “Tarek Atoui. At-Tāriq” (18 February–18 May), a sound installation inspired by traditional music from North Africa and the Arab world.

Additionally, the museum hosts “Noches Thyssen”, offering free nighttime visits to its temporary exhibitions every Saturday from 9:00 pm to 11:00 pm.

Handcrafted and sustainable shopping in Madrid

Labienhecha

A local brand specialising in handmade bags and accessories crafted from sustainable materials. Each piece is designed and produced in Spain with a strong focus on ethical fashion and responsible consumption.

Morueco Cerámicas

A ceramic workshop and shop in El Rastro, ideal for acquiring unique handmade pieces. From tableware to decorative sculptures, each work is crafted using traditional techniques and high-quality materials.

Practical tips for visiting Madrid during Holy Week

Weather and what to pack

April in Madrid usually offers pleasant temperatures, although it is advisable to bring some warm clothing for the evenings, as it can still be a bit chilly. Occasional rain showers are possible, so packing a compact umbrella could be useful.

Transport in the city

During Holy Week, some streets may be closed due to processions. The best option is to walk or use public transport, such as the metro and buses, for easy travel. It is also advisable to check for traffic restrictions in advance and consider alternative transport options like bicycles or electric scooters to move around the city centre.

Holy Week in Madrid is an experience that blends tradition, culture and gastronomy in a unique setting. With good planning and a centrally located hotel like Ocean Drive Madrid, you can make the most of everything the city has to offer.