Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Spain 2025

If you’ve ever heard of Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Spain 2025, you know it’s one of the most impressive events of the year. But experiencing it in person is another story: crowded streets, the sound of drums in the distance, thousands of candles illuminating the night and centuries-old pasos slowly moving through the crowds.

It doesn’t matter if you are religious or just a traveler looking for something authentic. This celebration is history, art and pure emotion. And in 2025, Semana Santa promises to be more spectacular than ever.

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If you’re thinking of traveling to Spain in April, here’s a detailed guide with the best destinations, curiosities and tips that will make your experience unforgettable.

📍 The 5 Best Destinations to Experience Easter in Spain

Each city has its own style to celebrate Holy Week. Some stand out for their solemnity and recollection, others for the visual and musical spectacle. Which one fits best with what you are looking for?

1️⃣ Seville: The Most Impressive Holy Week

If you could only see Holy Week in one city, many would tell you that it has to be Seville. It’s the most famous in Spain and, probably, the world.

What makes it unique:

✅ The most spectacular processions: imagine seeing thousands of people in complete silence as the Virgin of the Macarena passes by.

✅ The saetas: Spontaneous flamenco songs from the balconies that thrill even non-believers.

✅ La Madrugá (night of Holy Thursday to Good Friday): One of the most awaited moments, when the most important brotherhoods come out.

🔹 Local tip: If you want to see it without so many people, look for less central streets or follow the procession when it has already passed the Cathedral.

2️⃣ Malaga: Easter with a Different Touch

Malaga has a special way of experiencing Holy Week. Here, the floats are not carried by “costaleros” as in Seville, but by “men on thrones”, and the atmosphere is a little more festive.

Unmissable moments:

✅ The Christ of Mena and the Spanish Legion: soldiers parading to the rhythm of a hymn that gives goose bumps.

✅ The exit of the Virgen de la Esperanza: One of the most emotional and multitudinous.

✅ The joyful atmosphere: Here Holy Week is lived with devotion, but also with the welcoming spirit of the Costa del Sol.

🔹 Foodie tip: Take the opportunity to try the sardine skewers on the beach between processions.

3️⃣ Valladolid: The most solemn Easter Week

If you prefer a quieter Holy Week, with less spectacle and more recollection, Valladolid is perfect.

What makes it special:

✅ Religious sculptures from the 16th and 17th century: true works of art that parade through the streets.

✅ Processions in absolute silence: Only the drums and footsteps on the cobblestone floor can be heard.

✅ The respect of the public: Here there is no applause or cheers, only recollection and contained emotion.

🔹 Fun fact: Valladolid is famous for its sacred art. Don’t miss the National Sculpture Museum if you’re interested in the subject.

4️⃣ Zamora: The Oldest Easter Week in Spain

If you are looking for authenticity and tradition, Zamora is a hidden gem.

What makes it unique:

✅ Processions with more than 800 years of history.

✅ The sound of the drums at night creates an almost mystical atmosphere.

✅ The procession of the Recumbent Christ: One of the most awe-inspiring, with the cofrades walking with torches in complete silence.

🔹 Travel tip: Zamora is a small city, so it’s easy to get around without crowds. Perfect if you prefer to avoid the crowds of other more touristy destinations.

5️⃣ Toledo: History and Spirituality

Toledo, with its medieval old town, offers a Holy Week with an almost movie-like atmosphere.

The best of its Holy Week:

✅ Nighttime processions in torch-lit streets.

✅ The sound of bugles and drums resounding between the walls.

✅ The unique historical setting, with churches, convents and narrow streets.

🔹 Traveler tip: Climb up to the Mirador del Valle for a spectacular view of Toledo lit up at night.