As a student studying in Madrid, one of the most anticipated questions each year is when the holidays begin. Today, I’ve compiled the holiday schedules for Madrid’s main universities, including insights from Madrid University rankings, hoping this information proves helpful.
Overview of Madrid University Holidays
Holiday schedules at Madrid universities generally follow the Spanish Ministry of Education’s unified guidelines, though each institution makes minor adjustments based on their teaching plans. Typically, there are three major holiday periods: Christmas break, Easter break, and summer vacation, along with several scattered bridge holidays.

2024-2025 Academic Year Holiday Schedule
Below is the holiday arrangement for several major universities in Madrid for your reference:
| Holiday Type | Start Date | End Date | Duration |
| Christmas Break | December 23 | January 7 | 16 days |
| Easter Break | April 14 | April 21 | 8 days |
| Summer Vacation | June 30 | September 15 | 77 days |
Please note that this schedule is a general arrangement, and different faculties and programs may vary. For instance, medical and engineering schools often have delayed exam periods, which can push back the actual start of holidays. It’s recommended to check your specific faculty’s official website for exact dates.
Important Considerations During Holidays
Some practical advice regarding holidays: First, if you’re planning to return home or travel to other countries, book your flights well in advance, as ticket prices surge significantly during Christmas and Easter periods. Second, many shops and restaurants in Madrid close during holidays, especially on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, so remember to stock up on food beforehand.
While summer vacation is lengthy, don’t forget that some courses schedule makeup exams or summer classes. Last year, I failed one course, and my wonderful summer plans were completely ruined as I spent the entire month of July preparing for retakes. Therefore, I suggest confirming whether you have any makeup exams or other academic commitments before making holiday plans.
Finally, a reminder: university libraries in Madrid operate on reduced hours during holidays, and some may even close for several days for maintenance. If you need to use the library during breaks, whether at [Real Madrid Graduate School at Madrid University] or pursuing [Madrid University graduate programs], remember to check the opening schedule in advance. Wishing everyone a wonderful holiday!