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The Perseids light up Madrid's sky: dates and places to enjoy summer's most anticipated meteor shower
Between 11 and 13 August, Madrid will witness the Perseids spectacle, also known as the Tears of Saint Lawrence. We explain when and where to see them so that you do not miss this unique astronomical event.
Every summer, nature puts on a visual show that captivates both astronomers and the curious: the Perseids. This phenomenon, popularly known as the Lágrimas de San Lorenzo, will fill the sky with meteors between 11 and 13 August 2025, reaching its peak on the night of Tuesday the 12th, around 22:00. This year, the waning Moon may make visibility a bit more difficult, so the best option is to look up just after sunset. In the best conditions, up to 100 shooting stars per hour can be seen.
The origin of the Perseids lies in the Earth's passage through the trail of the Swift-Tuttle comet, whose tiny particles burn up as they enter the atmosphere, creating flashes that seem to come from the constellation Perseus. Along with the Quadrantids, Lyrids, and Aquarids, they are among the most notable meteor showers of the year.
To make the most of the show in Madrid, it's best to get away from light pollution. Some of the most recommended spots are Parque Enrique Tierno Galván, Cerro del Tío Pío, Casa de Campo, and the area around the Planetarium. If you're looking for even clearer skies, check out our list of glamping sites near Madrid to enjoy the stars all night long with better visibility.