Grapes and Golden Luck
Every culture has its secrets for a prosperous year ahead. For those asking what brings good luck in the new year, Spain's 'Las Doce Uvas de la Suerte' (The Twelve Grapes of Luck) is one of the most fun and widespread traditions.
This 3-day Madrid itinerary takes you to the heart of the celebration at Puerta del Sol. You'll participate in the grape-eating ritual, explore world-class art, and enjoy chocolatey luck for breakfast.
The Vineyard Century
The tradition of eating twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight dates back to around 1909, when vine growers in Alicante had a surplus of grapes and popularized the ritual as a symbol of prosperity.
Each grape represents one month of the year. If you finish all twelve by the final chime of the Puerta del Sol clock, luck is guaranteed.
This simple act of communal eating has become a national obsession. From grandmas to toddlers, everyone in the country is focused on those twelve bells, making it the definitive answer to what brings good luck in the new year in the Spanish-speaking world.
Your 3-Day Lucky Madrid Celebration
Discover what brings good luck in the new year according to Spain.
Day 1: Dec 30: Art & Palaces
The royal heart of Spain.
Prado Museum
World-Class Art
One of the most prestigious art museums globally, housing masterpieces by Velázquez and Goya.
Why You Should Visit:
Reflect on the beauty of the past before looking toward the future. It’s a sophisticated start to discovering what brings good luck in the new year.
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Metro (Banco de España)
3 hours
How to Reach:
Metro line 2 to Banco de España.
Insider Tip:
Visit during the last two hours of opening for free admission (note: lines will be long).
Royal Palace
Regal Elegance
The official residence of the Spanish Royal Family (though they live elsewhere), a marvel of Baroque architecture.
Why You Should Visit:
Walk through the grand halls and imagine a year of royal prosperity.
10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Metro (Opera)
2 hours
How to Reach:
Metro lines 2 or R to Opera.
Insider Tip:
Book tickets online in advance to avoid 1-2 hour wait times in the winter sun.
Day 1 Dining: Tapas Crawl
The social way to eat.
Casa Labra
Famous for its salt cod croquettes.
Bodega de la Ardosa
Traditional tavern with great vermouth.
Day 2: Dec 31: The Grape Ritual
Midnight at Puerta del Sol.
Plaza Mayor
Historic Square
The grand, porticoed square in the center of Madrid.
Why You Should Visit:
Visit its Christmas market and see the locals preparing for the big night.
All Day
Walk
1 hour
How to Reach:
Central Madrid, walking distance from Sol.
Insider Tip:
Try a 'Bocadillo de Calamares' (calamari sandwich) from one of the small bars nearby.
Puerta del Sol
Kilometer Zero
The public square where thousands gather to hear the clock tower chime.
Why You Should Visit:
Eat your 12 grapes here. It's the most powerful answer to what brings good luck in the new year.
Arrive by 9:00 PM
Walk (Subway Closes)
4 hours
How to Reach:
Heart of the city; get there early as the square is closed by police once full.
Insider Tip:
Bring your grapes pre-peeled and seeded to ensure you can eat them fast enough with the bells!
Day 2 Dining: NYE Cena
A late, grand family dinner.
Sobrino de Botín
The world's oldest restaurant.
StreetXO
Avant-garde Asian fusion by David Muñoz.
Day 3: Jan 1: Sweet Beginnings
Churros and Park Walks.
Chocolatería San Ginés
The Midnight Snack
The most famous place in Madrid for chocolate and churros, open 24/7.
Why You Should Visit:
Ending your night (or starting your day) here is what brings good luck in the new year for Madrileños.
24/7
Walk
1 hour
How to Reach:
Hidden in a small alley between Sol and Opera.
Insider Tip:
If the line is too long, ask for 'para llevar' (to go) and eat them in the street.
El Retiro Park
Green Oasis
Madrid's most beautiful park, formerly a royal retreat.
Why You Should Visit:
Rent a boat on the lake for a literal 'fresh start' on the water.
6:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Metro (Retiro)
2 hours
How to Reach:
Metro line 2 to Retiro.
Insider Tip:
Visit the 'Palacio de Cristal' (Crystal Palace) for beautiful light and art installations.
Day 3 Dining: Recovery Feast
Hearty and warming.
La Bola
Famous for 'Cocido Madrileño' (chickpea stew).
Ojalá
Cool beach-themed bar in Malasaña.