This December, Navacerrada will once again launch its unique Christmas train route, a tradition for many families in Madrid. The train, adorned with garlands and lights, sets off from the town center and takes passengers through snowy landscapes to a true winter fairytale. Nestled among pine forests and mountain peaks, children can personally hand their letters to the magical Reyes Magos, while adults get a chance to relive the magic of childhood.
The journey lasts about an hour and becomes a real adventure: the carriages are filled with music, lights, and a festive atmosphere. The train moves slowly along winding trails, revealing views of snow-covered slopes and dense pine groves. Each journey is a chance to feel like the hero of a Christmas story, where wishes and dreams come a little closer to reality.
Route and atmosphere
The train departs from Plaza de los Ángeles, located in the heart of Navacerrada. From there, it heads toward Valle de la Barranca, where guests are greeted by a themed area—an authentic ‘Christmas House.’ Every detail is thoughtfully arranged: snowy decorations, twinkling lights, festive melodies, and, of course, the opportunity to meet the Paje Real, to whom little ones entrust their letters filled with secret wishes.
Entry to the Little House is reserved for train passengers only. The time spent inside is limited: a special bell signals the end of your visit, ensuring all guests get to enjoy the atmosphere without lingering too long. Adults must accompany children, and for the youngest visitors, baby carriers are recommended, as strollers should be left at the departure station.
Schedule and tickets
The holiday route will run from December 12 to January 4, but only on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays. On each of these days, there are six departures: at 12:30, 13:30, 17:30, 18:30, 19:30, and 20:30. This lets you choose a daytime trip to admire the mountains in sunlight or an evening journey, when string lights create a cozy, magical ambiance.
Tickets cost 5 euros per person. You can buy them in advance online or directly at the station, but morning trips often sell out on the first days of sales. Organizers recommend planning ahead, especially if you’re going on a weekend when there is higher demand.
Practical information
Due to the high number of visitors on weekends, parking in Navacerrada can be difficult. It is much more convenient to use public transport: you can take the C-9 Cercanías train line or bus 691, which departs from Madrid’s Moncloa transport hub. Don’t forget to dress warmly—temperatures in the mountains can drop much lower than in the city, and part of the route, as well as the entire Christmas House area, are outdoors.
Families with little ones should note: strollers are left at the station, and it’s better to bring a baby carrier or backpack for the route itself. Time inside the Christmas House is limited so that all guests have a chance to enter and don’t have to wait too long for their turn.
Additional activities
The holiday train isn’t the only attraction awaiting visitors to Navacerrada these days. The Christmas House grounds feature themed photo zones, small market stalls, and on select days you may encounter not only the page, but also Papá Noel or the Wise Men. There are interactive games and workshops for children, while adults can enjoy hot chocolate or traditional sweets.
This project is part of a regional tourism development strategy aimed at attracting visitors to Madrid’s mountain and rural areas even in winter. Organizers note that the Christmas train ride is not just entertainment, but also a chance to discover the region’s nature and traditions, spend time as a family, and create new memories.
