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European Researchers' Night 2025 in Madrid | Guide from Gran Vía

Learning science outside the classroom and with excitement? It's possible. European Researchers' Night returns to Madrid on 26-27 September with over 160 free activities.

European Researchers' Night 2025 in Madrid | Guide from Gran Vía

Learning science outside the classroom and with excitement? It's possible. European Researchers' Night returns to Madrid on 26 and 27 September with over 160 free activities: workshops, fairs, talks, observations, treasure hunts… from 9:00 to 24:00. And yes, many require booking.

Trying out science at Researchers' Night.

This is a European initiative happening simultaneously in hundreds of cities, bringing you closer to the people behind the breakthroughs you later read about in the headlines. The European Commission supports the project as part of the MSCA (Horizon Europe), and Spain participates through several hubs. In Madrid, it is coordinated by Fundación madri+d. Translation: rigour, accessibility, and lots of hands-on activities.

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

  • Dates/times: Friday 26 and Saturday 27, activities running from morning until midnight.
  • Bookings: The madri+d portal centralises the schedule and links; there are limited places per activity, and many fill up quickly. Reservations opened on 15 September at 9:00. Don’t leave it to chance if there’s something you’re keen on.
  • Three recommended stops from MadVibes (on foot or by public transport)

  • CaixaForum Madrid – Research Fair (17:00–20:00) Live demonstrations and informative stands to get hands-on with science. It's often a good starting point due to its open format and the variety of topics covered in a short time. CaixaForum+1
  • Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (MNCN-CSIC) – Treasure hunts and workshops Family-friendly programming and dynamic activities that turn scientific concepts into games. If you're travelling in a group, it's a balanced way to learn and have fun. Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales+1
  • Universities and research institutes (UC3M, UCM, IMDEA, IFT/UAM-CSIC) Short talks, open labs, and themed activities showcasing applied research and real work lines. Check the offerings by campus and schedule.
  • Participants taking part in a scientific treasure hunt at the MNCN-CSIC.

    Suggested itinerary (Friday afternoon)

  • 16:30 · Departure from MadVibes Hostel (Gran Vía).
  • 17:00–18:30 · CaixaForum · Tour of stands (60–90 min).
  • 19:00–20:30 · MNCN-CSIC · Treasure hunt or workshop.
  • 21:00 · Dinner along the Gran Vía–Chueca axis and walk back to the hostel.
  • Arrive 15–20 min before each activity.
  • Have QR codes/bookings ready on your phone + a short list of nearby alternatives.
  • For smaller crowds: try Saturday morning slots.
  • Much of the programme is free and subject to capacity (centralised schedule on madri+d).
  • This plan isn’t about seeing everything but about choosing wisely. With two or three well-timed activities and bookings sorted, the experience flows smoothly: clear timings, easy transfers, and a relaxed return to Gran Vía.