spain visit in december

Where to Go in December in Spain

The Best Cities to Visit around Christmas in Spain

December in Spain, as in most of the western world, is dominated by the family-centric holidays of Christmas and New Year's. As a result, there are fewer events going on around Spain, since a lot of Spaniards go home to visit their loved ones in the more remote villages, leaving some of the cities a little quieter than usual.

Whether you're in the mood to sample local cuisines or you want to attend an annual event, visiting the cities and countryside villages of Spain is still worth it in December. From world-famous exhibitions in Barcelona and food festivals in Costa del Sol, to Christmas lights in Seville and festive events in Madrid, there are still plenty of great things to see and do across the country throughout the month.

December in Barcelona

Barcelona's events calendar in December isn't as full as most months since a lot of residents retreat from the cold to spend time with their families, but there's still more going on than elsewhere in Spain.

Events include two fun-runs (Buff Epic Run and Cursa Dels Nassos), and some performances from the  De Cajon Flamenco Festival , which runs throughout the latter part of the year.

Christmas in Barcelona  is also a very festive time of year, and many of the major thoroughfares will be decorated in holiday lights and colors. There are also plenty of places to stay in December that will be decorated with holiday cheer.

December in Seville

While the Christmas season will be full of festive events and brilliant lighting displays in Seville, the city has a unique event of its own this month: the traditional Dance of the Seises at Seville's cathedral during the Inmaculada Festival on December 8.

Even when the events aren't happening, though, there are plenty of  things to do in Seville . Wander through the heart of Seville's tourist district, Santa Cruz, where you'll find the famous Seville Cathedral and its Giralda Bell Tower, or head to the Real Alcázar de Sevilla, a historic palace built for Peter of Castile.

Accommodations are typically easy to book this month, especially if you're looking to rent a private room in local's apartment while they're gone visiting family for the holidays. There are also a number of great hotels within walking distance of some of the city's biggest attractions.

December in Madrid

As with Barcelona, there aren't that many events going on in Madrid this month, but Christmas is at its biggest and grandest in this capital city. Fortunately, since many residents head back home for the holidays, you will find it easier to eat at a restaurant on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day here than in the rest of the country.

Other popular Madrid events in December include Winter Solstice bonfires in Robledo de Chavela and the San Silvestre Vallecana fun run on New Year's Eve. There are also a number of  Christmas markets throughout the city, and since the  December weather  stays relatively warm all month long, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore these festive attractions.

When it comes to accommodations, most hotels in Madrid have plenty of vacant rooms throughout the month. However, you may want to book your New Year's Eve accommodations early since they might book up before December (this is where the biggest NYE gathering in the country takes place, after all).

December in Costa del Sol

If you have access to a car, the Costa del Sol has a few events spread out that are worth a look. The Costa del Sol is usually seen as a summer destination, but if you aren't desperate for beaches, there is still plenty to do in the region even in winter .

The Migas Festival in Torrax, for instance, celebrates the simple "peasant's favorite" dish of fried breadcrumbs known as  migas, while the Verdiales Festival in Malaga  celebrates a specific type of flamenco dancing with performances by troupes from across the country.

Additionally, visitors can take an icy plunge with locals during the Polar Bear Swim in Gibraltar, which takes place on Boxing Day (December 26) each year.

However, since these events are spread along the south coast of Spain, you'll need to find a centrally located destination to spend the night. Staying in Malaga is your best bet if you want to hit up all of these festivals, and there are plenty of accommodation options in the area

December in Salamanca

Salamanca is a student town, so a lot of the city's inhabitants go away for Christmas and New Year. However, to celebrate with their friends, they often host an early New Year's celebration in the town square for everyone where everyone is welcome to join.

Otherwise, Salamanca is relatively quiet in terms of events in December. The New Cathedral and the Plaza Mayor are the biggest draws in the city, but the uniform sandstone architecture and hip eateries of Universidad Civil make it a great destination as well.

As far as accommodations go, you can rent an apartment recently vacated by a college student at the University of Salamanca who went home for the winter break or find a cheap hotel room nearby.

December All Over Spain

There are also a number of events that take place across Spain throughout the month of December. From the El Gordo Lottery Draw to New Year's Eve celebrations, you're sure to find a way to experience the local culture of Spain during your trip.

El Gordo Lottery

Spain has the  biggest lottery  in the world (by total prize fund). The vast majority of the population has a stake in the lottery, either as part of a syndicate or ​with an individual ticket. Every year on December 22, TVs and radios will be tuned in to hear the results (which takes several hours) of the  El Gordo Christmas Lottery . Get a ticket and join in the fun anywhere in the country.

Christmas in Spain is a family affair, and  Christmas Eve  is a bigger event than Christmas Day, with families gathering for an extended meal. Restaurants may be closed on one or both days, and will almost certainly require reservations if they are open.  Madrid and Barcelona,  as the biggest cities, have the most life to them around this time.

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve is also largely a family event in Spain. The stroke of midnight is either spent in the main square of a city or at home. Most bars will be closed, opening around 1 a.m. for a night of revelry after the family celebrations end. Wherever you choose to celebrate, make sure you have twelve grapes to eat at each gong of midnight—a nationwide tradition in Spain .

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Spain In December: Best Things To Do & See [2024]

• Post author: Nicoletta
• Reading time: 58 mins read
• Post last modified: February 15, 2024
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Are you thinking of making Spain your festive holiday destination this season? Or do you wonder how Spain is in December? You’re right here.

I lived in Spain for over 2 years (in Barcelona), and one time in December , we set on a big road trip from Barcelona to southern Spain with my friends. We visited many places, including the central part (Madrid and Toledo) and celebrated Christmas and New Year’s Eve in Seville .

With that said, I’ve gained a  great understanding  of what Spain is really like in December thanks to these experiences. So, in this article, I’ll share all my insights into this topic for you, give you ideas for the best places to visit, go skiing , the best Christmas Markets, and a lot more.

Let’s get started.

✈ Travel Resources For Your Trip ✈

Here are some of my favorite travel resources I use for my travel adventures.

Should You Visit Spain In December?

Yes, you must visit Spain towards the end of the year if you want to avoid the heat wave , enjoy fewer crowds , and have more affordable accommodation . Besides, you can enjoy a beautiful Chrstimasy atmosphere and even go skiing .

I actually think December is the best time to visit Spain overall.

I don’t recommend visiting Spain inland in December if you’re looking for a warm place to relax on a beach . If that’s your goal, visit the Canary Islands , a warm destination all year round.

December in Spain is for those who want to enjoy the culture, go sightseeing, make some road trips, and enjoy it all for a fraction of the price you would in the summertime.

Advantages & Drawbacks Of Visiting Spain In December

😍 Fewer Crowds 😍 Lower Prices 😍 Mild Temperatures 😍 Chrstimasy Atmosphere 😍 Skiing Season 😍 Sunny But Not So Hot

😪 Colder, Not For Swimming & Beach Time 😪 Snow In Some Parts 😪 Cold In Northern & Central Spain

Spain In December Weather

Spain is a huge country , and the weather varies significantly depending on the location. The northern and central parts are colder , while you can enjoy much warmer weather in the southern and eastern parts , especially the coastal areas .

So I’ve divided this section into the weather in each part of Spain. Generally, the weather in December in Spain is cold, yet pleasant. It can snow in some parts of Spain, and others are dry and sunny.

Temperatures in December in Spain are, on average, around 12°C/53°F . The southern part of Spain is dry but warmer, and the northern part of Spain is wetter and colder.

Weather In December In Northern Spain

The weather in northern Spain is usually wet and cold in December. Temperatures range around 12°C/54°F . On average, it rains around 13 days per month.

This part of Spain is the coldest , with the central part, too. You’ll need a winter jacket and maybe light gloves to keep you warm. However, you don’t have to bring extra puff jackets and too many layers. One winter jacket with warm shoes is enough.

Weather In Barcelona In December

The weather in Barcelona in December is dry , yer pretty warm . You can easily walk around with a light jacket, sometimes just with a sweater . It’s pleasant and a great time to explore Barcelona.

Temperatures range between 14°C/57°F and 16°C/60°F and it only rains 3 days in the month on average.

Weather In Madrid In December

I felt Madrid was really cold compared to the rest of Spain on the last calendar month. I had a light jacket on and had to put a warm scarf around my neck to keep me warm. While walking, it was all right. But when you stand outside, it gets chilly. So bring some layers if you’re only visiting Madrid.

However, it gets significantly warmer when the sun shines, and you can walk around in a sweater only.

The weather is dry and cold , and temperatures range between 7°C/45°F and 10°C/50°F and it usually rains about 8 days a month.

Yet, december is my favorite time of year to visit Madrid , mainly due to the Christmas Markets. They make Madrid so much better and magical.

Weather In December In Southern Spain

If we exclude the Canary Islands , Southern Spain is the warmest part of the country in December . It’s one of the best parts to explore at this time of the year.

You can enjoy temperatures between 14°C/57°F and 17°C/63°F . It’s sunny yet dry . So you’ll feel the cold a but.

I recommend bringing a light jacket just in case it’s colder. But usually, it’s delightful to walk around in a sweater and enjoy the sunshine . I loved Andalusia in December.

Weather In Seville In December

The weather in Seville is amazing, sunny, and warm . The temperatures in December are around 15°C/59°F , which is the perfect time to explore the city, not too hot, but also not too cold.

Weather In Malaga In December

The weather in Malaga in December is even slightly warmer than in Seville . The temperatures range between 15°C/59°F and 17°C/62°F , the air is warmer , and you can enjoy the ocean breeze , which is super nice.

It barely rains in Malaga in December, so it’s one of the warmest destinations in mainland Spain in winter.

Weather In Mallorca In December

The weather in Mallorca in December is also pleasant and temperatures are mild . It ranges around 15°C/59°F and inly only rains 5 days per month on average.

It’s also a great place to be for sightseeing, to enjoy less crowds, and Christmas in Palma de Mallorca.

Which Part Of Spain Is The Warmest In December?

The Carany Islands are the hottest part of Spain, and southern Spain is the warmest place in inland Spain to visit in December.

The Canary Islands are the hottest part of Spain , where temperatures don’t change even in December. You can still go swimming and enjoy some beach time .

It’s one of the best destinations in Europe to warm up during the cold winter months and temperature range around 22°C/72°F

The southern part of Spain is the warmest in December, considering mainland Spain . The temperature ranges between 14°C/57°F and 17°C/63°F .

Granada is the coldest (within southern Spain) as it’s close to Sierra Nevada and Malaga and Marbella are the warmest places to visit in inland Spain.

Does It Snow In December In Spain?

Yes , it snows in Spain at the end of the year. Due to global warming, the snow season has shifted, and the first snow might fall in January. Still, it’s usual for December to get some snowfall, too.

It usually snows in Northern Spain , Central Spain , and mountainous regions of southern Spain. It barely snows on the eastern and southern coast of Spain (Costa Brava, Costa del Sol).

Best Places To Experience Snow In Spain & Map

To enjoy snow in Spain, visit Leon and Burgos in northern Spain. These are some of the coldest cities and usually get some snowfall.

Central Spain is also one of the coldest regions , and it typically snows in Segovia , Madrid , or Cuenca .

It also snows in Barcelona , but usually in late January and February . December is rather dry and warmer than the beginning of the year.

You can also enjoy some snow in southern Spain (Andalusia) on the Sierra Nevada Mountain Range near Granada. It’s also one of the best places to go skiing in Spain.

Overall, these are the best places to experience snow in Spain:

❄ BURGOS ❄ LEON ❄ SEGOVIA ❄ MADRID ❄ CUENCA ❄ SIERRA NEVADA ❄ BAQUEIRA-BERET

Best Places To Visit In December In Spain

Spain is a great destination all year round. It mainly depends on your preferences, the purpose of your visit, and what you want to see in December.

But generally speaking, I think these are some of the best places to visit in December overall when you’re in Spain:

📍 BARCELONA 📍 TOLEDO 📍 MADRID 📍 CÓRDOBA 📍 SEVILLE 📍 GRANADA 📍 RONDA 📍 VALL DE NÚRIA 📍 CÁDIZ

Map Of The Best Places To Visit In December In Spain

Here is a map of the best places I recommend you visit in December in Spain. Save it and use it when exploring.

Best Places For Christmas Markets In Spain & Map

Spain has fantastic Christmas Markets . What I love about them is that they’re fairly unique compared to the rest of Central Europe . The cities has beautiful decorations and each has its unique Spanish Christmas traditions .

For example, In Catalonia (Barcelona) , you’ll see a dressed log everywhere as local children beat it and beg it to poop presents for them.

Almost everywhere in Spain, you can find the Christmas Loterry on sale. It’s so fun how crazy locals go about winning ‘El Gorgo’. Everyone buys a loss and hopes for the best. They pick the winners exactly on the 22nd of December, and one lucky winner has an even more special Christmas.

Try some Spanish Christmas delicacies on the markets, such as turron, polvorones, or churros with hot chocolate.

If you’re eager to experience Christmas and visit some of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Spain , I recommend the following places:

🎄 MADRID 🎄 TOLEDO 🎄 SEVILLE 🎄 BARCELONA 🎄 BILBAO 🎄 MÁLAGA

👉 READ ALSO: Christmas In Austria: Complete Guide With Traditions & Places

Best Place To Go Skiing In December In Spain & Map

Spain also has some excellent ski resorts that you can enjoy in December. Look for the mountains if you want to go skiing (obviously). The higher the mountains, the higher the chance it’ll snow in December.

If you want to go skiing in December in Spain, I recommend the following ski resorts :

⛄ SIERRA NEVADA – closest to Granada & Seville ⛄ LA MOLINA – closest to Barcelona ⛄ BAQUEIRA-BERET – Pyrenees, closest to Barcelona ⛄ VALL DE NÚRIA – Pyrenees, closest to Barcelona ⛄ PUERTO DE NAVACERRADA – closest to Madrid

👉 READ ALSO: Best Of Spain Itinerary: 14 Days In Spain

13 Best Things To Do In December In Spain

To help you plan your vacation, I’ve got a great list of things you can do in December when visiting Spain. It includes something for every type of traveler .

I’ll mostly take you to southern Spain, as it’s one of the best places to be in December. So check it out and create your perfect itinerary from it.

Here is a list of the best things to do in December in Spain.

• Explore Barcelona & Its Sights
• Enjoy Magical Atmosphere In Toledo
• Make A Road Trip Through Andalusia
• Explore Seville
• Visit Alhambra & Granada
• Make A Day Trip To Morocco From Tarifa
• Learn About The History In Córdoba
• Make A Cooking Class In Madrid (Christmas Special)
• Go Tapas Hunting In Seville
• Enjoy Flamenco In Granada
• Visit Ronda
• Go Skiing In Sierra Nevada
• Enjoy Spanish Christmas Traditions & Markets

1. Explore Barcelona & Its Sights

Barcelona is great to explore all year round. But in December, you’ll enjoy a unique Christmasy atmosphere with fewer crowds . I loved Barcelona in December with its mild temperatures and walking around on half-empty streets.

You can visit all the major sights such as Sagrada Família, Park Guell, Casa Batló, and many more at this time. Make sure to stop for a while in a cafe and enjoy the atmosphere.

You can’t go wrong with visiting Barcelona in winter; I’m sure you’ll love it .

👉 READ ALSO: Barcelona Itinerary 3 Days: See The Highlights

2. Enjoy Magical Atmosphere In Toledo

Toledo is hands down one of my favorite towns I’ve seen so far during my travels. I visited it in December , and it was even more magical .

If you want to experience a proper Christmas atmosphere with cute Christmas Markets and a magical setting, come to Toledo.

It’s only an hour from Madrid , so you can easily make a day trip. But I recommend spending at least a night or two.

Walk around at night as the lightning is beautiful. During the day, learn about the history on a free walking tour and take some cool pictures from the best viewing point : Mirador del Valle.

3. Make A Road Trip Through Andalusia

Southern Spain is one of the best parts you can visit in December. It gets cold in Spain at this time of the year, and Andalusia is the hottest part .

Even though you’ll need a jacket to keep warm, the sun shines, and the weather is usually great.

Andalusia has, in my opinion, the best sights in Spain , and exploring them in December is the best time since they’re less crowded .

Follow my 10-day best of southern Spain itinerary and enjoy what the former Al-Andalus was.

4. Explore Seville

Seville is amazing. So, if you can’t decide where to go or only have a few days, make Seville your destination. It’s a huge city full of life. We celebrated the last day of the year with my friend on the main square here, and it was so much fun .

You know the Spanish tradition makes you eat 12 grapes , one each, when counting down the last 12 seconds of a year before the New Year starts. We did so with locals on the main square, and it was such a great celebration.

So come to Seville, explore its beautiful sights , including La Giralda, Alcazar, and the stunning Cathedral, and don’t forget to walk through the charming Jewish Quarter.

The city has a great coffee and tapas culture . So sit anywhere on the street and enjoy the sun with coffee or hot chocolate with churros.

➡ Explore The 3 Major Sights Of Seville With This Combo Ticket.

5. Visit Alhambra & Granada

Alhambra (in Granada) is a must-visit any time of the year. But since you’re in Andalusia, you can’t miss a major sight. It’s the former palace of the Nadrid Dynasty residing in Spain and ruling the country during the Al-Andalus times in the 13th century.

Today, you can enjoy the stunning Islamic architecture unique to Europe. Book your tickets ASAP, as they’re often fully booked even 3 months in advance.

To get the best views of Alhambra , climb up to St. Nicolas Viewing Point in Granada. These views are some of the most beautiful in Spain, with the Alhambra and Sierra Nevada Mountain Range in the background, covered by snow.

➡ Get A Skip-The-Line Ticket For Alhambra Here.

6. Make A Day Trip To Morocco From Tarifa

Do you want to visit even one extra country ? It’s possible, even as a day trip from Spain. And it’s not Portugal. Sure, you can drive across the border to Portugal for a day. But what I mean is crossing to Morocco , a bit more exotic destination .

From Tarifa , take a ferry to Tangier Ville. And then drive to the charming town of Chefchouen . It’s all blue, which makes the town so special. You can walk through the streets, experience Moroccan culture , and taste local dishes like Tajin and Couscous.

Then, take the last ferry from Tangier Ville back to Tarifa.

7. Learn About The History In Córdoba

Cordoba is another city you can’t miss when visiting Spain in winter. Its beautiful patios with decorations and flowers make you feel like you’re in a fairy tale .

As with Sevilla, I loved the atmosphere of Cordoba (perhaps even more).

Visit the Great Mosque and learn about the Moorish history . Then, walk around and taste some Andalusian dishes like Salmorejo, Flamenquín, Gazpacho Andalus, or fried eggplant.

➡ Book A Guided Tour Of Córdoba Including The Major Sights Here.

8. Make A Cooking Class In Madrid (Christmas Special)

Madrid is a great destination all year round, too. Whether you come for sightseeing or Christmas Markets, you’ll love it.

But a cooking class is one of my favorite things to do in Madrid. Enjoy the culture with a local , go with him to the market , and shop for all ingredients . Then cook traditional dishes like Paella or prepare some Tapas.

It’s so much fun and brings you closer to the culture and the people in the city.

Besides, you have to try some of the best churros in the country; go to Chocolatería San Ginés and treat yourself. Then do some sightseeing and visit at least one museum as Madrid is famous for so many (mainly Reina Sofia & Prado Museum).

➡ Join This Cooking Class In Madrid With A Local.

9. Go Tapas Hunting In Seville

Did you know? Tapas comes from Seville . And so it’s the place to go tapas hunting or make a tapas crawl with your friends or locals.

It all started when locals took their piece of bread with a slice of ham and put it into their glass of wine. This way, they wanted to prevent flies from dipping into their glass . It became a tradition, and that’s how tapas evolved .

Nowadays, you can enjoy these delicious food pieces of various kinds in almost every bar when you sit for a glass of wine or beer.

➡ Join This Tapas Crawl In Seville With A Local & Have Fun.

10. Enjoy Flamenco In Granada

Granada is the birthplace of Flamenco , so if you can, wait to watch it here.

Granada used to have a big population of gypsies . They made the neighborhood called Sacromonte their home here in Granada. And we all know how great dancers and musicians they are.

They casually performed Flamenco dances in this neighborhood. And it has become a major tradition in the city, especially in Sacromonte.

So, if you’re visiting Granada, go to Sacromonte and enjoy an authentic Flamenco show .

➡ Experience Authentic Flamenco Show In Granada By Getting This Tickets.

11. Visit Ronda

Ronda is one of the most impressive Spanish towns. Its stunning scenery will capture you as this town is built on top of a deep gorge . So you’ll see the cute white houses, and suddenly, a steep gorge is falling from the city. It’s super cool.

So come, walk around the city, and enjoy another beauty of Andalusia.

Besides, Ronda is also famous for some great culinary and wine experiences . So make your reservation in Restaurante Azahar or a Michelin Star Restaurant Bardal .

12. Go Skiing In Sierra Nevada

You may not know, but you can also go skiing in Spain. Yes, it’s amazing. So if you argue with your wife who wants to visit a sunny place and go sightseeing, but you can’t wait for the skiing season to kick off. Spain could be a great match for you both .

Sierra Nevada Mountain Range is one of the best ski resorts in Spain. They usually open the door in late November. So prepare your equipment and experience a new ski place.

13. Enjoy Spanish Christmas Traditions & Markets

Spain has some unique Christmas traditions you can’t miss when visiting it in December.

Sevilla, Malaga, Bilbao, Barcelona, Madrid, and Toledo host the best markets in Spain .

Toledo has of the most magical Christmas atmospheres in Spain. Besides, it’s also one of the most beautiful towns in Spain.

For the craziest traditions , go to Barcelona and see the dressed log pooping presents. Taste various Christmas delicacies like polvorones and turron, and get into the Christmas mood.

December Events In Spain

If you want to experience some unique Spanish traditions or participate in local events , here is a quick calendar of events happening in December in Spain.

So plan your itinerary accordingly:

👉 READ ALSO: 6 Famous Spanish Festivals You Must Experience

Spain In December Itinerary

Are you prompt to visit Spain at the end of the year? I’ve got a great itinerary for your visit. Whether you want to visit Spain for Christmas, New Year’s celebrations, or sightseeing, I recommend doing these things.

It’ll help you see the highlights of Spain and get the most out of your visit.

So follow this 10-day itinerary for Spain if you’re visiting in December:

Travel Itinerary Planning Services

Practical tips for visiting spain in december.

I’ve got some further tips for you to help you plan your visit to Spain at this time of the year. See what to pack and wear and where to stay.

What To Wear In December In Spain

What to pack and wear in December in Spain depends on the part of Spain you want to visit and what you want to do.

Bring a winter jacket , warm shoes , and a few layers if you want to go sightseeing in northern Spain and Madrid . It’s quite cold.

If you only want to visit southern Spain , a light jacket with a scarf will be enough to keep you warm. Have a sunscreen handy, too. It’s sunny.

And if you want also to try skiing , bring skiing clothes . But you can also rent all the clothes on the spot.

Where To Stay In December In Spain

First, choose the things you want to do in December in Spain. After, make these cities your base, enjoy some day trips, and explore the area.

🏠 BARCELONA

If you want to visit Barcelona, enjoy some mild weather, and even go skiing in the nearby ski regions Vall de Nuria and Baqueira-Beret, book your stay here.

Here are my hotel recommendations for Barcelona:

➡ HCC Montblanc – budget friendly hotel – book here ➡ Catalonia Plaza Catalunya – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ W Barcelona – luxury hotel with ultimate views – book here

If you want to enjoy delicious Spanish food, a cooking class, or skiing in Purto de Navacerrada, book your stay in Madrid.

I recommend the following hotels in the city:

➡ Hostal Palacio Luna – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ Hotel Liabeny – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Oriente Palace Apartments – luxury apartments – book here

To enjoy some of the most magical Christmas atmospheres in a historical and cultural city, stay in Toledo.

These are the hotels I suggest:

➡ Barrio Rey – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ Parador Del Toledo – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Hacienda Cruz – luxury apartments – book here

If you want to explore Andalusia, make some day trips to Cordoba and Granada, and even go skiing in the Sierra Nevada, book your stay in Seville.

These are the best hotels in Seville I suggest:

➡ atLumbreras 16 – budget-friendly hotel – book here ➡ Uma Suites Parada Del Marques – mid-range hotel – book here ➡ Hotel Alfonzo XII Luxury Collection – luxury apartments – book here

What Is Barcelona Like In December?

December is one of the best times of the year to visit Barcelona . The weather is mild and temperatures are around 13°C/55°F, perfect for sightseeing in the city.

Besides, prices drop significantly, there are fewer tourists , and you can enjoy some Christmas Markets and experience unique Christmas celebrations in Catalonia.

You can also go skiing in the nearby regions such as La Molina .

👉 READ ALSO: 8 Best Road Trips From Barcelona: Explore Catalonia

I’ve also answered some frequently asked questions to help you understand how Spain really is at the end of the year. Check my answers below.

Is It Worth Going To Spain In Winter?

Yes , Spain is 100% worth visiting in winter, especially in December. It’s the best time to go sightseeing and enjoy mild temperatures , lower prices , and fewer crowds .

You can also experience unique Spanish traditions or even go skiing . It’s a destination where every traveler will find their perfect activity.

Is Spain Good For Christmas?

Yes , Spain is great for Christmas. It has some of the best and most authentic traditions . The best Christmas Markets in Spain are Madrid, Toledo, Bilbao, Barcelona, and Malaga.

Is Malaga Hot In December?

Yes , Malaga is warm in December. It’s the hottest place in mainland Spain at this time of the year. Temperatures range between 15°C/59°F and 17°C/63°F . It’s sunny, and you can enjoy a refreshing ocean breeze.

WRAP-UP: December In Spain

This is what Spain is like in December. I honestly believe it’s one of the best times (or the best) to visit this amazing country. You can enjoy sightseeing without tourists, experience unique traditions, and even go skiing. It’s a great destination that will satisfy you even at this time of the year. Besides, it’s a great place to end a year and start the beginning of the next one.

If you have any questions or need a customized travel itinerary , contact me at info(at)voicesoftravel.com . I’ll gladly help you.

Happy Travels!

More Tips For Spain Travel

Looking to visit more places in Spain? Check out my related articles:

Best Of Spain Itinerary: 14 Days In Spain

Barcelona Itinerary For 3 Days

Southern Spain Road Trip Itinerary 10 Days

Top 8 Road Trips From Barcelona

6 Best Spanish Festivals You Need To Experience

Is Seville Worth Visiting? 14 Reasons To Visit & Tips

Christmas In Spain: Complete Guide With Traditions & Best Places

How Far Is Morocco From Spain? Complete Guide

How Far Is Barcelona From Paris? Complete Guide

27 Best Places To Visit In Europe In November

Is Portugal In Spain? Ultimate Guide

About the author: Nicoletta  is a travel enthusiast and passionate language learner. While traveling, she loves to connect with locals using her language skills to learn about new cultures. Look for her skiing, hiking in the mountains, or exploring new destinations as she designs travel itineraries for her clients.

SPAIN : Interested in more articles about Spain? Check out my Spain Travel Page :

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Spain in December: 10 Travel Tips, Activities & Weather

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Spain in December is a magical time to travel anywhere in the country! 

If you want to experience the beauty of a traditional, cold Christmas, Spain is your place. Spain is also your place to escape the cold to experience a warm winter!

If you want and have the budget, you could experience both, but that will take thoughtful planning. 

Until then, this article will give you ten travel tips before beginning your adventure, plenty of activities in 9 different cities, and weather details to prepare you for Spain in December. 

Ready to plan your trip? Let’s go!

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

Travel tips

1. spain has better travel deals in december.

To be honest, every year you see more and more people traveling to Spain during winter. Spring and Summer are the top seasons for Costa Brava, Costa Blanca, and Andalusia, but Autumn and Winter are becoming increasingly popular for traveling, especially to Madrid.

Even though Madrid and Barcelona usually have higher prices than the rest of Spain, December is a good month to find some nice deals. This will happen especially in the South, where the demand decreases in winter.

Create a Google alert! Four to three months before your trip, create a Google alert for the plane tickets to your destination and get reasonably priced tickets. Also, check the deals on Renfe’s home page! Renfe is the most famous Spanish train company, and every month they announce special discounts on their website’s home.

2. Visit a rural house in Northern Spain

If you want to experience the winter like a local, you can take a week in a rural house in regions like Cantabria, Asturias, or Galicia.  

These regions in Spain are known for their cool weather and offer rural houses that allow you to live a while in nature. 

For example, I recommend renting a car and taking a rural home closer to Oviedo, in Asturias. Besides chilling next to a chimney with hot cocoa, you have a bigger city a few minutes away and breathtaking nature in less than 2 hours. 

You can visit places like the impressive  Covadongas lakes  (1 hour away by car from Oviedo) or the  National Park Picos de Europa  (2h30 away from Oviedo). 

Check out more details here!

• 7 Beautiful North of Spain Lakes For a Weekend Retreat
• 9 Mountains Ranges in Spain for a Scenic Adventure

🏔️If you rent a rural house in Northern Spain in December, you will have a beautiful view of snowy mountains. It’s also very rainy in that season, so this plan is meant for people who genuinely wish to relax, stay in, and take some moments to explore adventure.  

3. Go ice skating during winter in Spain

In December, Spain turns into a Christmas movie. Even though there is not much of a culture for ice skating, almost all the cities and towns have their own Christmas market with an ice skating ring. 

Once you arrive in your city of choice in December, check out if they have their ice skating ring! This activity is nice to enjoy with family and friends during the holiday season. 

I will list you some ice skating rings in Madrid and Barcelona:

• Plaza de España
• Crystal Gallery in Cibeles Palace
• Ice sakting ring in Matadero
• Ice skating ring in Plaza Colon
• Ice skating ring Tibidabo
• Ice skating ring in Illa Diagonal
• Ice skating ring in Finestrelles Shopping Centre
• Ice skating ring in Gel del FC Barcelona

4. Visit as many Christmas markets as possible!

This is a must, if you visit Spain in December one of the cutest things to do is to go to a Christmas market!

The Christmas marketing in Spain is pretty varied, so that you will find stalls with different products. 

From international food to figurines for your Christmas Nativity, you will enjoy walking around the Christmas markets in Spain. Besides, the vibe in each one of them is just magical.

I will link you to the feature article on the best Christmas markets in Spain

• 11 Santa-approved Christmas Markets Worth Visiting in Spain

5. Eat  churros con chocolate  at San Ginés in Madrid

San Ginés is one of Madrid’s most traditional places to get churros with chocolate. So, if you visit Spain in December, you must get some churros for the cold weather. 

Churros are a traditional Spanish breakfast and snack, so you can choose where to eat them. However, most tourists go to the store during the afternoon.  So, get up early, walk the streets of Madrid with a nice morning breeze and tranquility, and get to San Ginés with no queue.

6. Be aware of Spain’s national holidays, prices go up!

December 6th and 8th are national holidays in Spain , people travel, and prices move up! So, if you plan to visit the country during those days, book everything ahead!

7. Choose your days wisely to avoid tourist crowds

Traveling in December is unique because it has a Christmas vibe that will make you feel like you are in a movie. Still, you must know that if you want to avoid big crowds, then there are four key dates you have to avoid:  the 6th, 8th, 24th, and 31st of December.

All of these days are holidays; people like to go to stores and find the last sales, use their time to stroll around the city, and more. If you are okay with traveling around those dates, plan your days wisely to avoid huge masses of people. 

8. Celebrate New Year’s Eve in Plaza del Sol, but go 2 hours earlier!

Now, if you are okay with big crowds, go to  Plaza del Sol to enjoy the New Year’s countdown.  If you are a first-time Madrid traveler, I recommend this December activity during your trip. 

Go 2-3 hours earlier! Everyone wants to go to Sol, so take your time to arrive early. Don’t forget to take your 12 grapes and cava to toast the coming new year.

9. Enjoy the Christmas city lights from a rooftop!

This is something you will love! A cute, movie-like activity in Spain in December is to enjoy the Christmas lights of the city from a rooftop. This is next-level romantic!

Just imagine going up the Hotel RUI (Madrid) right in front of Plaza de España and seeing all the Gran Vía light up in front of your eyes

10. Always be aware of your personal belongings

December is a shopping month, and everyone knows it, especially pickpockets!

Whenever you walk through a crowded street or ride a full metro, put your belongings where you can see them. For example, if you are wearing a backpack, move it to your chest to have a complete vision of it.

Cities in Spain to visit in December

Best for Christmas Experiences in Spain

If you plan on traveling to Spain in December, Madrid is a beautiful place to start. Your flight will probably land in Madrid, and your adventure starts from there.

What to do in Madrid in December?

During December, Madrid turns into a magical Christmas movie. There are plenty of Christmas markets, the streets are light, and people are more joyful. 

If you are a first-time traveler, you must see plenty of stuff, like the Museo del Prado, the Retiro Park, and Cibeles. But being here in December means you can do almost all with cute Christmas decorations. 

Ride on the  Naviluz  (Christmas Lights Bus) that will take you through all the streets in Madrid that have been lit with the Christmas spirit.

• Check out tickets right  here !

If you want another night experience with lights, then visit the  “Naturaleza Encendida” in the Botanic Garden of Madrid . This activity is especially perfect if you are traveling with children. 

• Check out the schedule  here !

Other must-visit landmarks are  Plaza de España and Plaza Mayor , which put up charming Christmas markets and decorations to enjoy with family and friends. The  market in Plaza Mayor is one of the most famous  because of the multiple stalls with traditional Christmas nativities scenes. This is super close to the San Miguel Market and the street of Cava Baja where you can enjoy tapas and drinks.

Nuevos Ministerios  hosts another fantastic, movie-like market, where you will find an extensive  gastronomic offer.   

✨ Unique December adventure in Madrid  ✨

Finally, if you are up for an adventure, rent a car and drive to  Navacerrada , a beautiful town in the sierras of Madrid, where you will feel like you are in a Hallmark movie. A nice plan would be to go early on a hike to the  Mirador de las Canchas (lookout) and finish with lunch at La Raclette.  

For more activities in Madrid:

• 18 Best Tips & Tricks to Experience Madrid like a Local
• 30 Best Things to do in Madrid: Fun Activities & Food!
• The Best 13 + 1 Museums in Madrid: It’s Not All About Art!
• 18 Best Landmarks in Madrid Totally Worth Visiting in 2023
• 11 Most Beautiful Towns Near Madrid worth Visiting!

2. Barcelona

Don’t get confused because Barcelona is a coastal city in Spain; it can also get pretty chilly in the winter. Temperatures in Barcelona can range between 15° / 9°, so you will have to carry your big coats with you.  

Just like in Madrid, Barcelona has plenty of landmarks and places you must visit and re-visit if this is not your first time traveling. 

But there are special December activities that you won’t want to miss! So, besides visiting the stunning Casa Batllò and Casa Milà, you embrace the street of  Passeig de Gràcia itself ! The Christmas light decoration in the famous shopping street of Barcelona is breathtaking. 

Barcelona is another city with a  Christmas bus  that will take you around to enjoy all the streets lit up. Besides, the bus informs you about Catalan traditions and holiday celebrations.

• Barcelona Christmas lights bus, right  here !

Barcelona also has stunning Christmas markets, such as the  Fira de Llúcia, Feria de Reyes de la Gran Vía, and the Feria de la Sagrada Familia , right in front of Gaudí’s majestic church. 

In these markets, you can get a Christmas tree to celebrate de holidays, traditional nativity scenes, and lots of hot chocolate and traditional  panettone  to warm up in the chilly weather.

Another amazing thing to do in Barcelona in December is visit the  Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site  (declared World Heritage by UNESCO). During Christmas, this historic place hosts the Universe of the Light or  Els llums de Sant Pau,  which will take us into the mysteries of space: galaxies, stars, and planets.

• Get your tickets  here !

Besides going to the most important landmarks in Barcelona (which are listed in all the articles below), a great activity to do in December is visiting  Baqueira Beret.  This is the place to go skiing in January and February, but it is also a beautiful town to explore in December. 

Check out other towns:

• The 9 Best Barcelona Towns for a Nice Day Trip!

Baqueira es perfect for hiking and enjoying the hot springs of  Termas Baronias de Les . The perfect place for a more cozy Christmas experience in Spain. 

For more activities in Barcelona:

• Explore Barcelona’s Winter Charm: 11 Cool Things to Do
• 15 Best Tips & Tricks to Discover Barcelona like a Local
• 22 Best Things to do in Barcelona: Fun Activities & Food!
• 10 Best Shopping Places in Barcelona: Streets, Outlets & More
• 15 Best Tourist Landmarks in Barcelona Worth Your Visit

3. Oviedo 

Another beautiful place to spend December in Spain for a Christmas vibe is Oviedo. The capital of Asturias is a beautiful northern city with weather that will make you feel like Christmas. 

As I mentioned in  tip #2 , a nice December activity in Spain is  renting a rural house  that will retreat you from the big cities and immerse you in nature. 

Oviedo offers a beautiful old town to enjoy tapas, wine, and local gastronomy. Most of all, it has three famous Christmas markets for you to explore, these are in the streetsof  Mendizábal ,  Eusebio González Abascal, and the traditional Christmas market of Plaza de la Catedral.  

If you stay in Oviedo or any village nearby, I recommend you rent a car and drive to  Covadonga Lakes or the National Park Picos de Europa.  You won’t regret driving to this stunning gift of nature, mainly because you will be able to enjoy the sight of snowy mountains. 

The weather in this city is usually between 6° and 12° in December, so you will have to take winter outfits.

Best for Warm Winter in Spain

Sevilla is one of the most popular cities in Spain; it has a Southern charm that everybody loves and attracts plenty of tourists all year round. 

If you ask for my opinion, I think December is one of the best months to visit the city because even with some moderately chilly weather, the days are beautifully sunny and bright. 

Seville has many historical landmarks that must be on your to-do list at any time of the year. 

The Real Alcázar, Plaza de España, the  Setas , the  Torre de Oro,  and the great Cathedral of Seville with its stunning Giralda are just a few of the places you must visit once you get to the capital of Andalusia.

To read more about the top places to visit, check out our featured articles on the city:

• 10 Iconic Landmarks in Seville and Must-Visit Attraction

Now, December is Christmas time! So, you must make time in your agenda for the cute holiday activities that make a difference in your trip. 

So! For Seville in December, you must visit all the Christmas markets in the city. You will find various products, from food to traditional nativity scenes; there are three cute markets in Seville that you must visit during your trip.

🎄 Christmas markets in Seville:

• Mercado Navideño de Artesanía y Navidad - Alameda de Hércules
• Mercadillo Navideño de Nervión - Avenida Luis Morales
• Mercadillo Navideño de las Setas - Plaza de la Encarnación

On top of that, every Christmas in Seville, you will find the traditional ‘Ruta de Belenes,’  which is the tour through all the handmade Nativity scenes. I remember that back in 2021, when I visited Seville in December, there was a market with exclusively nativity scenes right next to the Cathedral.

🌟 Nativity scenes in Seville:

• Belén at Corte Inglés of Nervión
• Belén of 3,000 stars by CaixaBank - Sreet Sierpes
• Belén at the Altamira Palace
• Belén of the Arquillo City Council - Plaza Nueva

Finally, when you visit Seville in December, the city night will be lit up by the  decorative Christmas light around the city.  

Take your time to walk the city at night while enjoying  churros con chocolate.  Take some coats with you because the weather in Seville during December is between 17 - 8 degrees.

More on Seville:

• 10 Seville Markets To Enjoy Local Culture & Tasty Food
• 13 Seville Tips & Tricks You Should Know Before Traveling
• Top 9 Hotels in Seville: From Budget to Luxury
• 10 Best Rooftops in Seville: Drinks & Stunning Views!

5. Islas Canarias

The Canary Islands is another great place to spend Christmas if you plan to lay on the beach and avoid -0 temperatures. The location of this archipelago creates a privileged space that most people envy when the temperatures get too low. 

If you visit the Canary Islands in December, there is plenty to do, plus it is a low season, and you will find better deals.  The general temperature in the Canary Islands is between 21 and 16 degrees , which are acceptable numbers to experience days on the beach. 

BUT! Attention here!  The Canary Islands are a great place to visit in December or the holiday season, only if you want to connect with nature and enjoy small cities. 

The most popular islands in the archipelago are Tenerife and Gran Canaria, although the island of Lanzarote also offers amazing views and activities. 

So, what should you do in the Canary Islands during December?  Well, the best thing you can do is enjoy the beaches, their natural parks, and their cute small villages. 

For example, if you visit Tenerife, rent a car, and take a day trip to  La Laguna , you can walk through the colonial town square, with its colorful buildings and delicious Canary food. 

One activity that I love that you can do in Tenerife is star gazing!  This island is home to the Starlight Reservoir;  if you visit Tenerife from December 14 to December 15, you will have the opportunity to experience Geminidas.  This is a spectacular meteor shower that can be fully enjoyed from the unpolluted skies of Tenerife.  

Another thing you should do while visiting the Canary Islands in December is climb Mount Teide in Tenerefi and do some island hopping to Gran Canaria and Lanzarote with the ferries. 

If you would rather travel by plane, check out the tickets in Canaryfly .

Additionally, as with any other place in Sain during December, you must visit the Christmas markets. Some of the most popular are the  mercadillo  in Alameda del Duque de Santa Elena; and the Gastromercadillo in Plaza España , both in Tenerife. 

Finally, visit the small town of La Orotava and tour the Nativity Scenes exhibition. 

This article has suggested activities in cities in different regions of Spain, each with different temperatures. For instance, planning your outfits will be challenging if you plan to go to Asturias and the Canary Islands.

I have created a chart with the approximate temperature that you can experience in Spain if you visit in December. Remember that all of these are approximations, and don’t forget to check the weather map when you are closer to the day of travel.

Spain has so much to offer that choosing a place to go is difficult. This article suggests five cities where you can make the best of your December and holidays.

If you have any questions regarding what to do in Spain in December, don’t think twice and leave us a comment! We love reading you! And if you have already visited any of these places in December, tell us about it and help other fellow travelers with your experience.

READ NEXT: 11 Santa-Approved Christmas Markets Worth Visiting in Spain

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Spain in December: Weather & Things to Do

It’s that time of year again when Christmas is around the corner, and you’ve planned to travel to Spain in December. So, it’s only natural that you may be wondering: what is the weather like in Spain in December?

Look no further because below, you’ll find a concise guide providing details about festivals to look out for, the best things to do, as well as the weather in Spain during December. Even if you only have one week in Spain , there’s plenty of fun to be had over the festive season.

Let’s jump right into it.

Weather in Spain in December

Winter arrives in Europe in December. So, during this time, it will undoubtedly be cold in Spain. The average temperature in Spain in December can reach as low as 32°F (0°C), but it totally depends on where you are in the country. Luckily, Spain is considerably warmer than the rest of Europe during winter, so you can expect some sunshine and milder temperatures.

Experience a chilly Christmas inland   Spain in the capital city, Madrid, where the temperature in December can get as low as 50°F degrees (10°C). In San Sebastian, you may experience an average high temperature of roughly 53°F degrees (12°C). If you would like to get away from the icy winter, then Spain’s Mediterranean coastline is the perfect place for you.

In Barcelona, you can expect warmer temperatures and sunshine as the temperature here can reach an average high of 59°F (15°C). However, just because winter may be mild in these areas doesn’t mean you should only pack shorts and sandals. Thick, heavy jackets and scarves are a must-have.

Things to Do in Spain in December

There are many reasons why you should spend December in Spain. Spending some of winter in Spain is the perfect trip if you’re not a fan of crowded areas and prefer traveling on a budget. Here are some cozy winter activities to do.

1. Go Skiing

Head to the Sierra Nevada in Andalusia or the Pyrenees mountains for skiing and snowboarding. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced skier, there are plenty of slopes for you to try. Most skiing resorts are family-friendly and cater to all levels of skiers. In the Sierra Nevada, you can ski in the morning and spend the afternoon relaxing or walking on its sun-kissed beaches.

  2. Attend a Live Flamenco Show

Experience the passion of well-known Spanish dance and music, the flamenco. Attend a live show at different venues and be prepared to be mesmerized by the dancer’s moves. You have the opportunity to better your experience by adding a dining choice and feel the Spanish full effect. Check for ticket prices and show dates on Get Your Guide .

3. Visit Park Güell

Barcelona is one of Spain’s many cities that has sunny winters. Since December in Barcelona is pleasant, it’s the perfect time to visit one of Barcelona’s outdoor architectural wonders, Park Guell. This park was declared a UNESCO Heritage Site. Barcelona Turisme says more than nine million people visit this park annually. There is so much to see and learn at Park Güell, such as the Guard Museum or Antoni Gaudi’s  family home (which has been transformed into a museum) and different exotic plants in the Garden of Austria.

 4. Experience a Christmas Market

To get yourself into the spirit, visit a Christmas Market in Spain. There is no better feeling than being surrounded by twinkling Christmas lights and a cheery ambiance, buying nativity figurines, and eating mouth-watering food to warm up your winter evenings. Traditional and crafted items such as apparel, jewelry, Christmas decorations, pastries, and sweets are all sold at most markets. You can find some of the best Christmas Markets in Santiago de Compostela in Galicia, Valencia, Seville, Plaza Mayor, and Madrid.

5. Hike in Montseny

Hiking might be one of many activities you plan to do in winter. However, because parts of Spain have sunny winters, it’s the best time to see beautiful plants and forestry in the snow. Montseny has a variety of routes you can hike, from short trails for beginners to challenging courses for more experienced hikers. Santa Fe del Montseny has one of the most attractive routes in winter. The L’Empedrat de Morou route is a good route for beginners as it is four miles (six kilometers) and has a spectacular landscape.

Festivals and Events in Spain in December

Carnival of Alcazar de San Juan

The Carnival of Alcazar de San Juan occurs on Christmas Day, the 25 December. It was named National Touristic Interest on 12 December 2024. You can expect a parade of children dancing in costumes, the Grand Parade of Troupes, and people wearing bedazzled masks. So, join the fun and dance with the rest of the parade.

Festivity of the Immaculada Concepcion

Christmas Day is known as the day that Jesus was born. In Spain, The Day of the Immaculada is celebrated on 8th December every year in Seville Cathedral. The Seises dance marks this day, a liturgical dance many centuries old. On the eve of the celebration, songs of glory and tribute honor the Mother Mary.

FAQs About Spain in December

Here are some frequently asked questions about traveling to Spain in December.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Spain?

If you’re not a fan of large crowds, visiting Spain in December is the perfect vacation for you. Because it’s off-season during the winter, you can save costs because places are cheaper. There are also fewer people in tourist attraction spots.

How do I Prepare Myself for Visiting Spain in December?

December weather in Spain requires you to pack warm as it is winter time. The temperature in the country can drop as low as 32°F (0°C), and a sunny day can quickly turn freezing. As a tourist, it’s important to respect the local holiday customs, regardless of how they differ from your own.

Wrapping up: Travelling to Spain in December

To close, December comes with chilly weather throughout Spain. However, visiting Spain in December comes with many perks. Fewer people are visiting the country, which means you avoid long lines in public places, activity tickets and accommodations are cheaper, and you’ll be drooling over the variety of breathtaking neighborhoods.

If you’ve been wondering where to stay in Spain , you’ll be drooling over the wide variety of amazing neighborhoods and mind-blowing locales the country offers.

Experience Spain’s Christmas weather and enjoy hearty meals to attending festival events, this beautiful Spanish country is brimming with culture and has enjoyable activities for everyone to participate in. Although Spain’s weather in December brings in cold and chilly times, you can still have fun in this cold weather.

Spain in July: Weather, Activities, & More

Spain in February: Weather & Things to Do in Spain

Spain in March: Activities, Climate, and More

Spain in April | Weather, Festivals & Things to Do When Visiting

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The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Spain in Winter

Last Updated on November 6, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Visiting Spain in winter isn’t always what jumps to mind when envisioning a holiday to this Iberian country. When you think of Spain, it is likely that you immediately conjure images of sun-soaked beaches and endless warm days. Spain is known for its warm and sunny days and it’s this great weather that draws millions of visitors to this Southern European nation each year (the food is pretty good, too).

However, with rising tourist numbers harming some of Spain’s most popular spots, it is becoming more and more important to travel sustainably and one of the best ways you can do this is by visiting this beautiful nation in the offseason. While fewer tourist crowds is definitely a plus for when it comes to visiting in winter, there are numerous other benefits to travelling in the cooler months.

Having visited Spain in the winter many times, we really can think of no better time of year to visit this amazing country. While the weather isn’t going to be perfect for lounging on the beach, it is still warmer and sunnier than 95% of Europe and the tourist crowds are next to nothing.

So if you’re interested in getting a bit of winter sun and avoiding the worst of December-March in Europe, you should really consider Spain as a winter destination. There are so many benefits to travelling to this wonderful country during the cooler months and your travels are not likely to be impeded.

Table of Contents

Weather in Spain in Winter

Spanish winter is generally mild compared to many other countries in Europe, however, it really depends on which part of Spain you’re visiting. You can expect the weather to be cooler in northern Spain and in cities like Madrid with temperatures rarely going above 10°C (50°F). In the south of Spain, average winter temperatures are much higher and warmer.

It’s worth keeping in mind that Spain is a big and diverse country and while you might assume that the weather in Spain in the wintertime is going to be all warmth and sunshine, this very well might not be the case.

I spent the month of January in Madrid and can attest that you do, indeed, need to plan for typical winter weather. In fact, Madrid can get pretty cold and it even sees some snow from time to time. While that snow rarely does stick, you can still expect temperatures to hover around freezing.

That being said, it is also fairly sunny in Madrid so, while the winter temperatures were more or less the same as they are in my previous home city of London, the winter didn’t feel nearly as bad in my opinion. Abundant sunshine, even in cold temperatures, trumps the short, grey and rainy days that are synonymous with a London winter.

Further south than Madrid, however, in Andalucían cities like Seville or Córdoba , you can expect average winter high temperatures to be much warmer. Indeed, many times in February in both of these cities I was wearing short sleeves or just a light jumper. Even Catalonian towns like Tarragona or Sitges on the coast of Spain can have extremely pleasant winter temperatures

Average high temperatures can range between 16-20°C (60-68°F) in most areas of Andalucía. It is worth noting that cities like Granada , though located to the south of the country, can still be very cold in the winter as it is located high in the Sierra Nevada Mountains (it’s a great destination for some affordable skiing, however!).

Further north, in regions like Galicia, Asturias , or Basque Country (including popular destinations like Bilbao or San Sebastian ), expect to have chilly and rainy conditions with cold winters. Obviously, it is fine to visit these regions in the wintertime so long as you’re prepared for cold weather.

Why You Should Visit Spain In Winter

There are countless reasons why you should plan a trip to Spain in winter, not only including that the weather is (generally) warmer than elsewhere in Europe and the tourist crowds are at a low. However, these are still particularly good reasons to visit.

More and more, travellers are becoming aware of the impact that over-tourism can have on destinations, and many places in Spain are suffering from the effects of this.

A good portion of the over-tourism problem comes when the vast majority of visitors flock to destinations in the warmer months, meaning that places have to accommodate millions of extra people for only a couple of months out of the year.

This influx of tourists can heavily inflate prices in Spain , which is inconvenient for tourists but incredibly harmful for locals, whose salaries will not increase at the same rate.

Mass tourism in many areas of Spain is also causing a housing issue, with many locals being priced out of their neighbourhoods due to inflated property costs — likely due to the increase of short-term rental properties like Airbnb.

One of the best ways to lessen the impact of over-tourism is by visiting popular destinations in the offseason. When so much of the tourism is concentrated in just a few months out of the year, this means that the economy in the off and shoulder seasons can really struggle, especially for those whose livings rely on tourism.

By visiting popular destinations in winter, you do a good job of distributing tourism numbers to a more manageable rate and you can stimulate an economy during a time when there aren’t many people travelling.

Another pro when it comes to visiting Spain in the winter is that there are fewer tourists. This means that it can be easier to get into top attractions, you will have shorter queues, and, often, accommodation prices will be cheaper.

Fewer visitors means fewer people booking popular attractions, transportation tickets , and hotel rooms which also gives you a lot more flexibility when it comes to mapping out your Spain itinerary.

So if you decide you would like to spend one more day in Seville to head out on a day trip to Cádiz and would like to cut off a night in Málaga because you’ve seen enough of the seaside, it is much easier to do this in the winter. The same goes for transport tickets, as routes are unlikely to book out as far in advance as they would in the summer months.

Spain is also warmer than most of Europe in the winter months, and while certain areas can be chilly, it is altogether nicer to spend January in Southern Spain than January in Southern England.

Even Spain in December doesn’t see as many tourists as other European nations, where visitors flock to experience the snowy weather and Christmas markets. This doesn’t mean, however, that Spain ignores the Christmas season. You can find beautiful trees and bustling Christmas markets in Spain in most major cities and towns. Spending December in Spain is really an excellent option.

If you stay long enough for the New Year celebrations as you enjoy the winter season, you are in for a treat, as well. Spaniards really know how to party and you can join all of the others while eating grapes and counting down to the New Year, one of Spain’s most interesting and fun traditions! Spain in January also sees fewer visitors, so this can be a great time to visit to avoid the crowds.

All in all, there are lots of reasons to spend winter in Spain and, unless you are going to the country in order to get some beach time and a good tan, there is no reason not to visit in the offseason.

What to Wear in Spain During Winter

As outlined in the weather section above, it really depends on where you plan to go in the country in order to figure out exactly what to wear in Spain in the winter.

If you’re planning on visiting Madrid in winter before heading south and east to warmer cities like Barcelona and Seville or some of the other best places to visit in Spain, then layers are going to be your best friend if you want to pack light.

Like I’ve already said, Madrid can get pretty cold, but the other two cities are significantly warmer. Therefore, if you plan to carry around a heavy winter coat, which will keep you warm in Madrid, it is likely to be too much for anywhere else.

What I would recommend, instead, is investing in an Ultralight Down Jacket ( click here for a men’s version). These are super warm but also, as the name suggests, incredibly lightweight and they pack down into convenient compression sacks, taking up minimal luggage space.

They are suitable to be worn over a few base layers and a jumper while wandering through chilly Madrid and are light enough to wear during the day over just a t-shirt or long-sleeved top in the warmer cities.

Another invaluable clothing item for winter in Spain would be a good pair of dark jeans. These you can dress up or dress down and you can pull them over a pair of leggings or thermals for colder days.

It is unlikely ever to be warm enough for shorts or skirts without tights anywhere (with the possible exception of the Canary Islands), so having a good pair of jeans is a great thing to bring with you.

Scarves are also always a good idea to bring to Spain no matter the season. You can use a scarf to help keep you warm when it’s chilly outside, however, it is also a great fashion accessory for both men and women and will help you to blend in and look more like a local!

Where to Go in Spain in Winter

As discussed earlier, Spain doesn’t really see much extreme weather in the colder months of the year so planning a Spain winter itinerary doesn’t really have to differ at all from any other Spain itinerary. Unless you are after a beach holiday, visiting Spain during winter is just as good as any other season.

Madrid in Winter

If you plan on visiting Madrid during winter, it is going to be the coldest big city to head to in Spain. That doesn’t mean, however, that it isn’t worth visiting.

As I said earlier, I spent most of January and some of February in Madrid and, while it was cold, the generally sunny weather made even the chilliest of days feel quite pleasant. There were some tourist crowds around in the more popular areas, however, it felt far from packed or overrun, as well. I also never needed to book far in advance for entry into museums or attractions, nor was it a challenge to find accommodation.

Average highs in Madrid in winter are about 10°C (50°F) and average lows are around 3°C (37°F), so definitely do expect it to be cold in Madrid. As I said earlier, I would also recommend bringing lots of layers in order to stay warm and enjoy your time in the Spanish capital.

Despite the cold weather, you will find that Madrid is very much an outdoor city and the streetside culture doesn’t stop in the winter months. Expect there to still be outdoor seating options (complete with heating lamps and blankets) and you will still see many people strolling through Retiro Park and even rowing boats on the lake.

If you are visiting Spain in December and plan to spend time in Madrid, you can also enjoy the Christmas market that pops up in Plaza Mayor and marvel at the decorations adorning the city. This is also a great place to be on New Year’s Eve, as the countdown that takes place in the Puerto del Sol is televised throughout the country.

Most places in Madrid are well-equipped to handle the cold and there is usually ample heating everywhere you go, so you should have no trouble keeping warm.

Where to Stay in Madrid

Madrid is a massive city with a lot of accommodation options available. Depending on how long you plan to visit Madrid, I would generally recommend trying to find some accommodation that is within walking distance of most of the city’s main attractions. If you want to know where to stay in Madrid, these are our top recommendations:

II Castillas Madrid — A small hotel located close to the Plaza Callao in central Madrid, this is a good mid-range option for travellers. They have a number of clean and cosy rooms available and breakfast is included in the nightly rate.

The Hat Madrid — A boutique hostel located adjacent to the Plaza Mayor, this is a fantastic choice for budget and solo travellers. They have both dorm and private rooms available and great common areas that make it easy to meet other travellers.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse other hotels in Madrid!

Seville in Winter

With high temperatures rarely dropping below about 16°C (60°F), Seville is really the perfect destination in Spain in winter.

Seville is the capital of the Andalucía region and is blessed with its own unique culture and vibrant cuisine. No Seville itinerary is complete without a visit to the incredible Real Alcázar or the imposing Seville Cathedral. It is also worth exploring the Roma heritage and flamenco culture of the Triana neighbourhood on the other side of the Guadalquivir River.

Not only does Seville have a lot to offer in cultural attractions, but the culinary scene here is also one of the best in Spain. The tapas bars in Seville in absolutely amazing and you can easily spend until the late hours of the night hopping from one tapas bar to another. There are also numerous great day trips from Seville , making it the ideal base to explore Andalucía.

Because of its ideal weather, visiting Seville in winter might actually be the best time of year to head to this beautiful city. Because it is so popular amongst tourists, it can get very expensive in the warmer months and it can be harder to get into some of the best attractions. It also can get oppressively hot in the summer, making it far less pleasant to explore outside.

Where to Stay in Seville

Seville is one of the most popular places to visit in Spain and, therefore, there is no shortage of places to stay in the city. While it can be good to stay close to the historic centre and all of the tourist sites in the city, we would also recommend looking for accommodation in the cool Triana neighbourhood on the other side of the river. Here are our top suggestions:

Hotel Bécquer — This old town hotel is centrally located within easy walking distance of all of Seville’s best attractions. They have a number of clean and comfortable rooms available and even a rooftop pool for those warmer Seville winter days!

Monte Triana — If you are looking to stay in the Triana neighbourhood, this boutique hotel is a great option. Though it is on the other side of the river, it is only about 15 minutes on foot from all of Seville’s best attractions and they have a number of luxe rooms available.

Hostel One Catedral — Located within easy walking distance of the Alcázar and Seville Cathedral, this hostel is a good choice for budget and solo travellers. They have a range of dorms and private rooms available and they also organise activities and social events.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Seville hotels!

Barcelona in Winter

Barcelona is the most popular place to visit in Spain, so much so that the second-largest Spanish city is very much struggling with overtourism. This is why visiting Barcelona in winter is a fantastic idea because you can help lessen the tourist burden in the high season.

Barcelona is obviously famous for its Gaudi architecture and its unfinished cathedral, La Sagrada Familia, is also the most visited tourist attraction in the entire country. There is, however, a lot more to do in the city than hit all of the top tourist spots and there are few places in Spain where it is more important to try and venture off the typical tourist trail.

You can also use Barcelona as a base to explore the surrounding area including taking a day trip to Montserrat or to the historical city of Tarragona.

Weather in Barcelona in winter also tends to be incredibly mild, with high temperatures rarely dropping below 15°C in the coldest months, making visiting the city in the wintertime incredibly attractive to tourists. If you want to be able to enjoy the best of Barcelona and avoid the hordes of harmful tourist crowds that come in the summer, then try to visit Barcelona in the winter.

Where to Stay in Barcelona

Barcelona is a very popular travel destination, so you will have a lot of accommodation options to choose from. While it might seem attractive to get a flat through Airbnb, we would recommend against it in this city as it is putting a massive burden on the housing market in the city and pricing many locals out of their homes. Instead, follow our top suggestions for a great place to stay in Barcelona:

Room Mate Anna — This boutique hotel is a great place to stay in Barcelona. They are centrally located within easy walking distance of all of the best attractions in Barcelona and they have a range of plush and comfortable rooms available.

Hotel Condado — This is another great hotel to stay in Barcelona, located within easy walking distance of all of that the city has to offer. They have a number of spacious and comfortable rooms available that are suitable for all types of travellers and breakfast is also included in the nightly rate.

Fabrizzio’s Petit — This small, locally-run hostel is an excellent choice for budget and solo travellers in Barcelona. Located within walking distance of all of Barcelona’s main attractions, they have a range of dorm and private rooms available and breakfast is included in the nightly rates.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Barcelona hotels!

Visiting Spain in winter might be the best time of year to head to this Southern European nation. With mild weather throughout and fewer tourist crowds, spending your winter holiday in Spain is a great idea for any traveller!

Are you considering coming to Spain during the colder months? Have any questions? Let us know in the comments!

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About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Such a helpful read! Heading to Spain end of December through January and this got me so excited!

Great overview! We are heading to Spain in January 2022

Hope you have a great time!

Interesting reading. I’m heading to Spain in December

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Spain in December: More Than Just Christmas Lights

If you’re planning a visit to Spain and aren’t sure what time of year to choose, do not overlook a winter visit, especially in the month of December. While some people may be concerned about the potential for poor weather, you could miss out on the charm of winter in Spain. We have listed recommendations on the best cities to explore throughout December in Spain and things to do in wintertime.

Hi, we’re Timon & Filipa!

We travel across Spain in our motorhome, Speedy, and update TravelSpain24 with fresh content, practical tips, and personal stories from the road. Our goal is to help you experience Spain beyond the typical tourist trails.

Weather In Spain In December

While you may not immediately think of cold weather and Spain in the same sentence, the country definitely does increase all four seasons in many areas. The mainland of Spain, specifically Madrid , can be especially chilly in December, with highs around 50° F (10° C). Barcelona, for example, along the coastlines of Spain, has slightly warmer winter weather than Madrid , with highs still only around 60°F.

The northern Atlantic Coast, specifically San Sebastián , is even a little cooler, with highs around 55°F in winter. If you’re really looking to escape the cold in Spain, the islands of Spain could be a good choice. With high temperatures in the mid-60°F, the Balearic Islands tend to be the second-best choice for a warm winter.

The winner of the warmest weather in Spain in the month of December is easily the Canary Islands, with temperatures in the 70°F range. After I spent the summer traveling around Tenerife in the Canary Islands earlier this year, I was told by a local that the best month to visit is, without doubt, December, as extremely hot temperatures become more enjoyable.

The weather in Spain during the month of December absolutely influences a traveler’s activities and choices of places to visit. The months of December to March tend to have some of the most rainfall, especially if visiting northern Spain, so be prepared for that prior to travel.

Although it is rare, some of Spain’s cities, such as Madrid, can experience some snowfall from late December to early January. The snow there, though, tends to melt quickly due to the warmer urban temperatures. Be sure to know which cities in Spain could experience snow to prepare appropriate, warm clothing.

Prepare the right clothing to pack for a December visit to Spain, depending on which areas of the country you plan to visit. The country’s northern area has many skiing options, specifically the Sierra Nevada region. If planning a visit to the mountains in Spain, pack as you would for any ski trip, with layering options, trousers, fleece jackets, and boots.

If you are visiting Spain and not planning on skiing, you may have to prepare differently if visiting multiple cities there. When traveling to Madrid, pack a cardigan, down jacket, and trousers with closed-toe shoes for cooler temperatures.

If remaining in a coastal area, layer to easily avoid garments if you end up overheating. A heavy jacket may not be necessary if visiting southern Spain in December, yet being prepared with a cardigan would be helpful.

Spanish Cities to Visit in December: Top Picks 

Knowing which cities are the coldest in Spain to avoid booking travel in December would be helpful if you are looking to avoid cold weather at all costs. It is helpful to decide which city to visit in Spain in December by considering the traditional events that happen during that month in each city.

While weather is an important factor when planning a trip, it’s also important not to miss the unique happenings that occur in each area of Spain in December. Whether choosing from Barcelona , Madrid or Sevilla, you can’t go wrong when choosing a city to visit in Spain in December.

1. Barcelona

It’s hard not to think of December and consider a visit to Barcelona for festive lights and activities. With the beautiful old buildings and numerous plazas in Barcelona, the backdrop is perfect for a winter stay. Book a cozy stay in the gorgeous El Raval neighborhood , which provides a great location for light viewing and winter attractions in Barcelona.

Nothing says cozy winter vibes more than grabbing some hearty stew in Madrid’s beautiful El Rastro market. Time spent in Madrid during the month of December is magical, and the market provides a great place for shopping.

If you’re deciding where to stay in Madrid for your visit , consider all the different neighborhoods prior to making your choice. A charming option for a December trip is an aparthotel near the Atocha train station , within walking distance of museums, the famous train station, and amazing restaurants. I enjoyed my time at the Bob W Arte Hotel and enjoyed walking everywhere without needing public transportation.

You may not think of December and flamenco in the same sentence, but these shows are a big hit for all in Spain, regardless of the season. In Seville is also the Museo de Baile Flamenco , sharing the history of this beautiful tradition in Spain. 

If catching a show is not for you, Seville has several historic tours to choose from of all kinds. If the weather is right in winter, book a walking tour to explore the city.

If you are looking for a place to stay, consider Triana House , a boutique hotel in the middle of the popular Triana neighborhood . Be sure not to miss Guadalquivir’s colorful neighborhood, known for its festive decorations during December.

Hidden Gems We Discovered in Smaller Towns 

Not only big cities are festive to visit in December in Spain! When planning a trip, many hidden places are located in smaller towns that shouldn’t be missed. These towns make fairy tales come to life when you visit, and they offer extra charm during the winter season.

Several of these small towns can be visited in conjunction with a visit to larger cities like Madrid and Barcelona. Before a December visit, check for any closures in these smaller towns, as holidays could affect their opening hours.

It’s hard to imagine a winter wonderland more grand than a visit to Segovia. This town, located a short distance from Madrid, marvels and leaves guests visiting year after year.

A must-see in Segovia is the fairy-tale-like Alcazar, a medieval castle that has existed since at least the 12th century. One of the most visited landmarks in Spain, Segovia is a destination not to miss.

Tours of this famous site are available in all months, but bundle up for a tour there in December. While in the area, several other day trips from Madrid would also complement a visit to Segovia. 

The sights and sounds of small-town Ronda in December cannot be missed! Located in the province of Málaga , Ronda is known for its dramatic view of the El Tajo gorge; this city lights up with festivals and spirited events in winter.

There is a large celebratory event in the city square of Tajo as the town is dressed for December. Other than exploring local towns, be sure to experience visiting ancient bullfighting rings located there that provide lots of history into the country of Spain.

There is a famous bridge in Ronda called the Puente Nuevo Bridge which stuns from all views. Consider booking a tour of the bridge and the stunning architecture in that area.

Girona, a small town located near Barcelona, is beautiful to visit in any season, but it should not be missed during winter. Girona is known to especially celebrate holidays compared to other Spanish towns, including Three Kings’ Day in early January.

There is much to see and do while exploring the medieval architecture and dining in ancient squares in Girona. You also should plan to visit the Christmas Market in Girona, which offers plenty of opportunities to shop and explore locally-made items.

To learn more about the unique history there, consider a private tour where you’ll stroll through medieval streets. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you will not want to miss the self-guided Girona Game of Thrones Walking Tour . 

Things To Do in Spain in December 

So you’ve decided to book a trip to Spain in December? You will not be disappointed by the number of things you can enjoy during the winter months in Spain . With a welcoming climate year-round, when dressed appropriately and well thought out, a visit to Spain in December can be super memorable. Whether you’re focused on shopping, food shows, or exploring, Spain offers a little bit of everything. 

While Spain is a popular destination to visit year-round, it is a well-kept secret that December is one of the quieter and less busy months to visit. The special charm of winter fills the air in all cities and towns, and wait times for popular venues and events are much lower than normal. Mild and pleasant temperatures, along with historic sites and festive events, make Spain a great choice in the month of December.

1. Christmas Markets

There is no feeling quite like visiting your first Christmas market. While other European countries are known for their Christmas markets, Spain has great options, too. Most of these markets are located in big cities throughout Spain, but Madrid’s Christmas Market has always been my personal favorite.

It’s hard to compare the charm of the Plaza Mayor , especially when dressed for winter festivals. This sprawling market of over one hundred stalls of shops is the best place to pick up a souvenir or two when visiting Madrid in December. 

2. Culinary Adventures

Every season is a good season for eating in Spain, so enjoy culinary adventures while exploring different regions. If the weather in December turns unexpectedly rainy or cold, look into the best restaurants for a long, cozy, and indoor dining experience.

Spain, in general, is known to have some of the best restaurants and most interesting food options in the world. Besides just good cuisine year-round, Spain offers savory seasonal food known as turrón and marzipan . These festive treats are enjoyed by everyone in December, including the queen. 

3. Flamenco Nights

Flamenco nights are fun in any season, so don’t forget about this indoor option when booking a trip to Spain in December. Flamenco shows do not disappoint viewers of any age, from singing to dancing.

A night out at a flamenco show in Madrid would also make for a great date night option or a December gift alternative of an experience. A particularly memorable part of flamenco nights is the rich history of Spain that they give insight into and a piece of the country that shouldn’t be missed.

4. Exploring Alhambra

What better to visit during winter than a palace? The Alhambra is a palace and fortress located in Granada, Andalusia, Spain. Due to its popularity and the palace being well-known throughout all of Spain, it is recommended to visit Granada in December to avoid crowds.

The beautiful scene of sprawling gardens and fountains makes for a great wintertime activity for all. Skip the line and get tickets for an Alhambra tour in advance. The city of Granada itself is beautiful to visit year-round, so be sure not to miss this area of Spain. 

December Festivals in Spain 

1. christmas lights in madrid.

Christmas is a time filled with twinkling lights and special festivities, and Madrid is one of the best cities in Spain to experience it. Beyond being mere decorations, the Christmas lights in Madrid symbolize the arrival of winter. This tradition of lit streets in Madrid with buildings and squares twinkling with lights is one of the best ways to get into the Christmas spirit.

From the end of November until the beginning of January, huge Christmas decorations with lights fill spaces around the city of Madrid. The city center of Madrid looks like something out of a Hallmark movie, and a visit to Plaza Mayor and the Mercado San Miguel during December is a must.

Choosing a hotel in the city center during December, like Petit Palace Puerta del Sol , is a great choice with a wonderful location in the festive Puerta del Sol .

Be sure to consider how many days you may need in Madrid to get in all of the sights!

2. Barcelona’s Christmas Fairs

The vibrant offerings of the Fira de Santa Llúcia and Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família in Barcelona are fairs that you don’t want to miss in December. Known as the biggest Christmas fairs in Barcelona and definitely the most unique, these fairs offer specialty items only found there.

If you’re searching for the perfect gift for someone, from a unique craft to traditional figures and delegetable treats, you’ll find them at these markets. These lively and joyful atmospheres are inviting and some of Spain’s best in December.

3. Valencia’s Celebrations

Valencia is a beautiful city in Spain that also offers December celebrations and festivities for everyone to enjoy. The most important December event there is the Midnight Mass held on Christmas Eve in the Cathedral. Carols and festive sounds fill the air and welcome guests to join in the Christmas spirit.

Valencia is worth visiting during December because you can enjoy the winter celebrations without a chill in the air, as the city is typically around 60°F.

Valencia has several great accommodation options , all in great locations for exploring. While out and about in Valencia, be sure to grab a world-famous churro at Horchatería Santa Catalina . 

Costs and Planning: Spain in December 

It is no secret that visiting Spain is popular, so traveling in the non-peak season for tourists is a great way to ensure you see all you set out to see.

One of the best ways to avoid the crowds and still experience wonderful weather is by choosing a visit to Spain in December. Due to booking in the non-peak season, prices for accommodations and flights should be lower than in other months. It’s important to budget for different aspects of travel to Spain. 

It’s worth noting that prices may peak around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, so taking this into consideration when budgeting and booking can be crucial.

For planning, I find that focusing first on accommodations helps me plan out my budget for the rest of the trip. In Spain, whether it’s a hotel booking or an aparthotel or flat, prices can widely vary to find accommodations in any month.

Once accommodations are secure, be sure to budget for activities. One of the best ways to truly experience Spain and learn more about its rich history is through locally-run tours. By budgeting for more one-on-one experiences like informational or walking tours, you’ll get much more out of your trip than trying to see everything independently.

Food is one of the more affordable parts of traveling in Spain, yet it should still be included in a budget when planning trips. One of the ways that I have saved money on food while visiting Spain is by making my own bocadillo . A bocadillo is a loaf of bread sliced in half and inserting desired fillings, from meats to vegetables. By not having to eat out for every meal in Spain, I have found that my budget has stretched much further.

One small expense in case public transportation is unavailable to your destination is using Uber in Spain , which fluctuates depending on when you visit. 

Tips and Precautions for Spain in December

While I have had nothing but joyous experiences traveling in Spain in the month of December, one thing could make your trip less pleasant if it does not get addressed.

Oftentimes travelers assume that Spain will be hot year round, including December, resulting in underpacking. The temperatures in Spain can be much lower than expected, and they can change quickly, so be sure to pack layers for a trip to Spain in December to keep warm.

Things can sometimes go wrong on trips. That’s why travel insurance is important. We’ve got a deal with Heymondo to give our readers a 5% discount on your travel insurance . It’s a simple way to make sure you’re safe and can enjoy your trip without any worries. Grab this deal and have a great time in Spain!

As always with other cultures, be sure to respect local holiday traditions, even if they differ from your culture. Regardless of the month, always be cognizant and aware of your location and be focused on your personal security while traveling. With celebrations and festivals donning the streets, be sure to keep in mind the legal drinking rules in Spain . 

Conclusion: Spain in December 

It’s hard not to share about the mesmerizing allure of Spain in December, and this is an experience that everyone should have at least once. While the weather may be a factor for some, the moderate climate of Spain is truly inviting year-round, including the month of December.

Bigger cities and hidden gems offer festivals and markets brimming with Christmas spirit, twinkling lights, and inviting environments. From culinary adventures to fairs and even castle visits, Spain offers so much in the winter season.

Have you visited Spain in December? I would love to hear what your favorite aspects of a winter visit to this magical country were like and what hidden gems you’ve experienced.

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While your friends make their plans to join the masses on sandy beaches or charming-but-packed Northern European Christmas markets, imagine yourself strolling through sunny Sevilla surrounded by locals enjoying the quiet holidays or taking in Guernica in Madrid after just a few minutes’ wait. Welcome to Spain in winter! Traveling to Spain in December was one of our favorite trips ever and it could be yours too.

If you’re wondering about the weather in Spain in December, read on for just a few reasons why you should start planning to visit Spain in the winter and resources to help you plan your trip, including what to wear in winter in Spain and tips for visiting Spain with a toddler in tow.

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Quick picks: where to go in Spain in winter

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• What to wear in Spain in winter

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Planning your trip to spain in winter, you might also like….

You can’t go wrong when you pair two or three of these amazing cities to build your Spain winter itinerary! The secret is out and it’s growing in popularity, so I suggest making your travel arrangements as early as possible.

• Save: K+K Hotel Picasso El Born
• Splurge: Mercer Hotel Barcelona
• Do: Park Guell & Sagrada Familia skip-the-line guided tour
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• Splurge: Hotel Alfonso XIII
• Do: Alcázar & Cathedral tour
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• Do: Valencia Old Town + Tapas tour
• Save: El Museo Living & Experience Club Apartments
• Splurge: Gran hotel Miramar GL
• Do: Museo Picasso

Is Spain cold in December?

Before planning any trip, it is important to know what kind of weather you can expect to experience at your destination. Spain December weather is not what you would traditionally see for Christmas, but that’s why we love it!

What is the weather like in Spain in December? While much of Europe is blanketed by snow or suffering under gray skies, you’ll find the Spain temperatures in December to be quite pleasant. When planning our winter trip, I was specifically looking for a destination with weather similar to what we could find in LA (or better!) , and Spain winter weather definitely fit the bill.

Weather in Spain during December can vary from city to city. Places like Granada and Madrid in winter are cold (very cold by my standards – bring these if you’ll be pushing a stroller!) but they are blessedly dry in the winter. Barcelona and Seville are both wonderful in the winter, with temperatures similar to LA!

No matter what cities you visit, Spanish winter weather is  nothing like what most of Europe experiences.  It’s one of the best warm places in Europe in January and December alike!

Read more: What to wear in Spain in winter

The crowds are extremely light

Crowds? What crowds? Winter holidays in Spain, and general Spain travel in December, strike the fine balance between being void of tourists and teeming with vivacious locals! We arrived in Barcelona between Christmas and New Years, which is the peak time for Spaniards to shop (sound familiar?). It was so fun to be out among so many people, but not to feel like we were just moving along with the herd of tourists (I’m looking at you, Florence).

At the same time, the tourist sites we visited were often virtually empty – for instance, when we arrived at the palace in Seville there was not a single other person in the courtyard! We got a good laugh out of Rick Steves’ tip to pay for the additional upstairs ticket to escape the crowds. It was one of the best places to visit in Spain in December!

Visiting Spain in January is even quieter than the pre-holiday rush, particularly once Spaniards have returned to work and school the second week. Places like Ibiza that are often jammed with tourists take on a quieter charm in the winter.

The hours are still plentiful

Most people know that Spain is a “late” country when it comes to meals and nightlife. Did you know that the hours extend to other spots too? While other countries in Europe were operating on reduced “winter hours” (*cough* France *cough*), Madrid rolled out the welcome mat for us by keeping its museums open extra-late.

In fact, both of our art museum visits were after dark. No need to set your alarm and wake up early, you can get in a very full day of activities in Spain and then sit down for drinks and tapas at 9pm. Perfect for a vacation schedule!

If you’re someone who needs sunlight to feel good about your life, Spain will be a much better option for you than countries further north. On the shortest day of the year, London will have just under 8 hours of daylight; Seville, on the other hand, will have 9.5 hours of daylight! Let’s not even talk about the 6 hours of daylight in Oslo… That can make a huge difference for many people in terms of their mood as well as how much exploring they get done.

Read more: Must-Read Travel Tips for Spain

Don’t mind the cold? Explore Madrid for a few days!

The magic of the season is alive and well

Is December a good time to visit Spain? Heck yeah!

The most important reason you should book your winter vacation in Spain is that it’s downright magical. Beginning December 1st and ending with Tres Reyes in January in Spain, every city, town and village in the whole country is lit beautifully to celebrate the season!

We saw displays modeled after presents in Barcelona and after toys in Toledo. Lights were strung across every tiny street and decorating trees and statues in the plazas. Looking for the most beautifully lit streets is one of the best things to do in Spain in December.

The whole country says a big “screw you” to winter darkness by competing to show off the biggest and best light display. It’s a huge point of pride for localities! And on a chilly winter evening, there’s no better way to get cozy than over a huge plate of sweet crispy churros accompanied by a mug of decadent piping hot chocolate for dipping. I promise, if  I can handle the Spain weather in December, you can too.

Christmas traditions in Spain

You can expect Spain at Christmas time to be magical. Many Spaniards share their family’s holiday meal on Christmas eve and then attend Midnight Mass. Spanish Christmas food is usually roasted turkey, often served with truffles.

In the Spanish-speaking majority of the country “Feliz Navidad” is the traditional greeting, while in Barcelona and other parts of Catalonia people wish each other “Bon Nadal” throughout December in Spain.

Hanukkah in Spain

Since the forced conversion and expulsion of Jews from Spain in 1492, there has been little active Jewish life. However, in recent years there has been renewed interest in celebrating Hanukkah in cities with rich Jewish histories like Toledo and Girona.

New Year’s tradition in Spain

There are fun things to do in Spain in January too. While Americans are accustomed to watching the ball drop in Times Square, Spaniards have a much more intense New Year’s Eve ( nochevieja) in store. The most famous New Year’s tradition in Spain is the cotillón – eating twelve tiny green grapes in twelve seconds as the clock strikes midnight, with each grape bringing a month of good luck in the coming year.

Confession: it’s REALLY hard! Make sure you get the seedless variety, and pick up a bottle of cava to wash it town.

Three Kings Day in Spain

Spanish kids might actually look forward to Three Kings Day – also called Epiphany – even more than Christmas itself, as most Spanish Christmas gifts are aren’t opened until then! We were lucky to attend Seville’s Tres Reyes parade and our son had a great time watching the floats of the wise men on camels driving by, while participants showered bystanders with candy. Basically, it was every kid’s dream.

Cities to visit in Spain in December

If you’re considering visiting Spain in December or January, there aren’t many bad choices. That said, the some cities are colder than others. When you’re crafting your Spain winter itinerary, you’ll probably want to stay fairly close to the coasts if you don’t want to bring heavy outerwear with you.

You could either start in Barcelona and then take the train down to Valencia, or pick a city in southern Spain like Seville or Malaga to explore and use as a base for day trips. If you really yearn for sun, try the Canary Islands.

Here are a few choices for where to go in Spain in December if you’re trying to avoid frigid temperatures but still want to explore the rich history and culture that Spain has to offer:

Barcelona in December

Are you seeking the attractions of a big city for your European winter holiday, but without the snowfall and frigid temperatures? Put Barcelona at the top of your list.

While the temperatures will be cooler than Seville (especially at night), Barcelona winter daytimes are still manageable with just a sweater or light jacket. The city has one of the more impressive light displays in the country, and Barcelona in January is bustling with local shoppers once the post-holiday sales begin.

Things to do in Barcelona

Read more: Things to do in Barcelona with kids

Though it’s a major city with all of the usual high-density urban trappings, the ribbon of Gaudi’s architecture weaves through Barcelona and gives it an unusual flavor with his modern, curved, almost lifelike stonework juxtaposed against the charming-but-otherwise-typical buildings of the area.

Architecture lovers can plan an entire city visit around seeing his works that span a range of projects: residences like Casa Mila and Casa Batllo , outdoor installations like Parc Guell and, of course, the masterpiece Segrada Familia. Each of these offers a distinct view of Gaudi’s skill and the range of his talents.

Pro tip: Park Guell often sells out weeks in advance. Check availability for your dates below:

It’s a very long uphill walk to Parc Guell; if you have a stroller with you, plan to take the bus. We didn’t realize how far it was and walked the whole way, but no one was especially happy about it and it took so long that we had limited daylight available. Remember, winter = shorter days!

Check prices for the top places to stay in Barcelona

For a different take on Spanish art, don’t miss the Picasso Museum in El Born district; make sure to allow yourself ample time to wander the back streets and stumble into a tapas bar!

While you’re in the area, stop by the nearby Barri Gòtic to see the ornate cathedral, which is surrounded Catalan Christmas market in December. If you feel like you’ve seen enough of what Barcelona has to offer, there are many great day trips to take nearby, including this Dali-inspired one to Girona .

Start planning with this detailed Barcelona travel guide

Want a local’s take? Check out this itinerary for four days in Barcelona ! Make sure to book one of these great places to stay in Barcelona .

Don’t miss these off-the-beaten-path things to do in Barcelona !

Traditional Barcelona food is also a treat for any foodie! Don’t miss local favorites like paella and (my favorite as a mostly herbivore) pan con tomate. While you can find churros con chocolate in Barcelona, they are more prevalent in Madrid; instead we mostly scratched our dessert itch with turrón , a honey flavored nougat loaded with almond pieces.

Make sure to check out the classic Mercat de la Boqueria, which may be a bit touristy but is impressive nonetheless and a great source for produce, meat, cheese and wine to stock up your picnics or late-night snacks.

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Barcelona, Spain

Seville in winter

My personal favorite city in Spain, Seville has it all: gorgeous architecture; fun Andalusian culture; and moderate temperatures even over the winter holidays!

With daytime temperatures hovering around 60F, it’s plenty comfortable to stroll the city’s lush gardens and quiet back streets. Even in places where we expected to fight major crowds, we were often the only tourists present.

At night the entire city is beautifully lit, with huge displays in Plaza Nueva and along the major thoroughfares, plus smaller scale displays on many other streets. Check out 2013’s Seville Christmas lights from Sunshine and Sietas !

They even threw (us?) a parade on January 5th (our last night in the city, which happened to coincide with Tres Reyes ). Check out this post for Seville travel inspiration

Things to do in Seville

In addition to generally taking in the Andalusian charm of the city, be sure to check out two major highlights, the Alcázar palace and Parque de Maria Luisa. The beginnings of the Alcázar we see today were constructed nearly a millennium ago and represent the unique fusion of Christian and Moorish architecture that is primarily seen in the region. For more context, hop on this excellent, affordable tour of Sevilla’s top sites.

Parque de Maria Luisa is the city’s largest green space and runs along the Guadalquivir River; in addition to its many walking paths and fountains, the park also houses the enormous Plaza de España exhibition hall constructed for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition. If you have history buffs in your crew, add a visit to nearby Italica , the birthplace of two Roman emperors. Here are more great day trips from Seville. 

Seville is still a great option if you’re looking for the best places to visit in Europe in February , as the weather stays clear and comfortable. There are wonderful festivals to experience, including carnaval!

Check prices for the top places to stay in Seville

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Seville, Spain here

Are you interested in seeing a flamenco show in Seville with your kids? Most of the local dinner and dance shows don’t permit young children (you’d be expected to leave at the slightest peep during the show).

We opted to visit the Museum of Flamenco and can’t recommend it enough! We visited during the day – they were open even though much of the city was closed for a holiday – and loved seeing the costumes and learning about the origins of flamenco dancing in Spain. The knowledgeable staff even took the time to teach us basic flamenco rhythms.

When we returned for the evening performance, we were warmly greeted with our little one and reassured that he and the other children in the audience were welcome even if they started clapping along. Honestly I’ve never seen a quieter toddler; our son sat mesmerized for the entire show!

There’s a 7pm show to appeal to the “younger” crowd, while those without kids may also be interested in the 8:45pm show. Prices are extremely reasonable: combined admission to the museum and show is €25 for adults, €18 for students and seniors, €15 for kids 6-12yo and free for younger ones. Check ticket prices and secure your spot here.

More activities to do with kids in Seville

Looking for more things to do in Andalucia?

Where to eat in Seville

One of the best pockets of restaurants (and also great for a late-night stroll) is Plaza Alameda de Hercules; it may be off the typical path for tourists, but it’s worth the excursion. Our favorite of the Alameda de Hercules restaurants was Al Aljibe. The restaurant serves tapas, but you won’t find any of the generic microwave variety there; all of the food is top-notch in quality, preparation and presentation.

The service was warm to an extreme: on our second visit, our waitress took our son around the restaurant with her so that we could enjoy a quiet meal! I’m sure they’re too busy in the peak tourist season for that level of accommodation, but that’s why you’re visiting Spain in December or January… right? You can visit Al Aljibe for an al fresco lunch from 1-4pm, or for dinner beginning at 8pm. As always, we generally advise arriving right at opening if you plan to bring young kids to a more “adult” restaurant – it’s usually better for all parties involved.

If you feel like you’ve had enough of Seville, take a quick train ride to nearby Córdoba. The city’s history is fascinating and varied: it was settled during the Neanderthal period, and over time has been ruled by Romans, Visigoths, Moors and Catholics. The layers of legacy are most clearly seen at the Mezquita , where a Visigoth temple is topped by a Catholic basilica, which is in turn surrounded by a Moorish mosque.

Don’t forget to visit the statue of Maimonides, the ground-breaking Jewish philosopher, down the street. If you’re looking for fascinating context and easy logistics, you can easily book a one-day tour from Seville to Cordoba .

Check out this great guide to a day trip in Cordoba.

Want a warm island getaway in Spain? Visit Mallorca this winter!

Valencia in winter (thanks to Rosalie of Rosalie Goes )

For those of us visiting from more northerly climates, southern Spain in December is a treat. Arriving in Valencia will feel like fast forwarding straight to springtime. Most days are still warm enough to comfortably sit outside, and you shouldn’t need much more than a light jacket to keep warm. With the beaches just cool enough to deter most people, you’ll be able to experience Valencia virtually tourist-free.

Valencia is a city known for its stunning architecture, ranging from ornate townhomes to modern masterpieces. Because of the cooler temperatures, you’ll be able to explore the streets and neighbourhoods on foot without overheating. Museums and historical sites will have shorter opening hours, but you’ll have the place to yourself while it is open.

Throughout December and early January, Valencia comes alive with seasonal festivities. Lacy fairy lights lining all of the main streets and poinsettias adorn every nook and corner.

Make sure you don’t miss the annual christmas market inside Mercado Central, where you’ll find everything from handcrafted gifts to red sea bream. Plaza de la Reina also hosts a life sized nativity scene, with more than three hundred statues surrounded by dozens of market stalls.

Perhaps the best part about visiting Valencia, however, is getting to try all of the delicious local specialties – and there really is no greater comfort food than seafood paella on a cool winter night! Prices for gastronomy tours and cooking classes are much lower than peak season, presenting a great opportunity to take full advantage of the delicious Valencian cuisine.

Here are some suggested itineraries for a few days in Valencia .

Check prices for the top places to stay in Valencia

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Valencia, Spain here

Malaga in winter (thanks to Jennifer of Sidewalk Safari )

Málaga is one of those places in Spain often overlooked by tourists in favor of the beachy resorts on the nearby Costa del Sol. If you visit Malaga in winter, you’ll be charmed by relaxing promenades, festive holiday lights and bustling fresh food markets – not to mention the pleasant weather in Spain in December.

Things to do in Malaga

Take a cool hike uphill in Málaga to Gilbralfaro Palace. Check out stunning views over the city anchored by the historic bullfighting ring. Hike back down to the Alcazaba fortress and see the Moorish influences in this part of Spain in the architectural details.

Picasso was born in Málaga and the Picasso Museum is definitely worth checking out. A large collection of Picasso’s art is proudly hung on the walls of an impressive mansion in the center of the city.  Don’t miss the city’s unique glass museum .

The modern promenade along the sea in Málaga is the perfect activity for a sunny winter’s day. All that sea air will make you hungry for seafood.

Restaurante El Tintero is a ‘must try’ activity if you find yourself in Málaga. It takes about 30 minutes to get to El Tintero on the public bus but it’s totally worth the effort. Take a seat and survey the scene as waiters come around offering seafood dishes in their best singing voices.

Warning: you may feel like you’ve been transported into an opera performance. When you see something you like, gesture to the waiter and they’ll drop off your dish.

Check prices for the top places to stay in Malaga

Use the interactive map to find vacation rentals and hotels in Malaga, Spain here

Where to eat in Malaga

Málaga is especially precise when it comes to coffee. Cafe Central invented the ten-strengths convention for ordering coffee in Málaga and is a lovely spot to warm up with a late morning or early afternoon cup of java.

Mercado Central de Atarazanas is a covered food hall featuring a wealth of healthy and not-so-healthy things to eat. Here you’ll encounter fruits you may not have seen before. Our curiosity was piqued when we saw chirimoyas and decided to try them for the first time. Chiramoyas feel like a hybrid between a banana (texture and taste) and a papaya (you eat it with a spoon).

Find a complete itinerary for Malaga in winter Sidewalk Safari .

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Absolutely! December is a magical time to visit Spain, and many parts of the country have mild weather and thin crowds.

Spain has many different micro-climates, where weather is governed by topography, proximity to the water and many more factors. In the low-lying coastal areas of Spain, you can often wear just a sweater during the day and a light or mid-weight jacket at night. Higher elevation locations (like Granada) or those far from the coasts (like Madrid) can get much colder and require a warm jacket, hat and gloves. Cold night in Spain can be very cold in some places!

Like the rest of Europe, winter in Spain is a festive time!

Check out the full Spain in winter packing list

Like so many places around the world, the Spain winter weather can vary dramatically depending on exactly where you are. It has the most diverse climate of any country in Europe. The mountainous landscapes and long swaths of Mediterranean coastline combine to create a series of microclimates, so plan accordingly!

While temperatures will be more pleasant than in much of Europe, nights can still be cold throughout the country. Most visitors to Spain aren’t doing serious trekking, so you’ll probably just need “smart casual” clothing for city exploration. During our visits to Spain we have found that locals always look put-together and leather shoes (even practical ones like my preferred simple boots) are the norm.

I’m a big fan of the capsule wardrobe concept – bring a small selection of clothing that can all be interchanged, focusing on one or two neutrals and one or two accent colors. Check out this article for more information on building a capsule wardrobe.

You’ll want to pack the following:

-a mid-size purse to hold your essentials

-2-3 pairs of pants. Most Spanish homes  do not have a dryer, so take that into consideration as you plan your wardrobe especially when it comes to jeans. If you’re visiting for a week or two and bringing pants that dry faster than jeans, two pairs might be enough. But if you’re like Brooke Shields in a Calvin Klein ad when it comes to jeans, do yourself a favor and bring three so that you’ll be covered while your laundry air dries.

-1 cardigan that can be layered with all (or at least most) of your tops

-5 tops, a combination of long-sleeve shirts and light sweaters that you can layer if temperatures drop unexpectedly

-1 long, lightweight packable down jacket . During our winter trip to Spain I brought a similar jacket but shorter and I was mighty cold in places like Granada and Madrid, especially in December! If it’s really cold, you can always layer the cardigan under your jacket as well.

-1-2 necklaces (perhaps one long and one short , depending on the necklines of your tops and how much you like wearing your scarf)

-1-2 shoes/boots. I recommend bringing a comfortable pair of athleisure shoes (like these favorites – which pair perfectly with my preferred socks ) for long days exploring the cities, and if you feel like you’ll want something dressier then bring some comfortable, practical, low-heeled black leather boots . Don’t forget cozy socks to go underneath just in case!

Don’t forget these crucial travel accessories when traveling to Spain! Our favorite travel gadget of all time is this ultralight USB extension cord – it charges all of our devices at once and eases the pain of hotels with too few outlets (or worse, hidden behind furniture).

Pair it with  just one international plug adaptor to minimize your electronics packing. One of our other favorite travel innovations is the eBags packing cube line – they keep our luggage organized and our clothes in good shape. Ours have lasted almost a decade and are still going strong.

Need a place to pack all that stuff? Check out the best women’s travel backpacks here!

We absolutely love visiting Spain in December (or anytime!) with kids – find out more about the best places in Spain for families .

• Spainiards love children and don’t mind seeing them everywhere and at all times! Don’t be surprised to find families going for a stroll at 11pm with the little ones bundled up in the stroller.
• If you plan to visit some of the chillier cities like Madrid, Granada and Rhonda come prepared to keep your little one warm. We piled on the blankets, but if we had known better we would have brought a foot muff to keep our baby cozy in his stroller. Alternatively, if you prefer to use a baby carrier you’ll want a cozy cover to go on top.

• Pack n Play portable baby cribs were ubiquitous at all of our holiday rentals in Spain, but if your lodging can’t provide one be sure to check out the ultra-portable Guava Lotus . Looking for the best place to stay with kids in Spain?

Read more: Check out our top picks for travel baby gear

• While cribs are easy to find, highchairs are  not . Ronnie and I retain a running joke from our family trip to Spain, sometimes just looking at each other and saying “ Tienes trona? ” Sadly, the answer was usually no! And often if a highchair was available, it was a rickety wooden contraption with no center bar in front – the perfect amount of space for our 18mo to slide through mid-meal. If we had known that at the time, we would have brought this awesome inflatable booster seat that we now use. ( Check out these other excellent travel high chairs )

• We basically never saw a changing table anywhere. Bring a stroller that lays down flat and learn to be quick if you’re going to one of the colder cities! Just wheel into a quiet spot if possible and do what you gotta do, parents.
•  El Corte Ingles is ubiquitous and has a surprisingly decent baby section. They carry a range of diaper brands and sizes, along with baby food pouches, in the grocery section. A word of caution: the pouches in Spain are viewed more as dessert and are flavored accordingly (I’m looking at you,  naranjas y galletas ). The department store section of El Corte Ingles often has a dedicated baby area where you’ll find wonderful brands like Mustela . And they also have baby cologne. Can’t comment on that one way or the other!
•  We found every city walkable enough that we didn’t need to take public transport or a taxi at any time except transfers between the airports and cities (the nice thing about trains is that they generally bring you into the city centers directly). To ease the burden of transporting a car seat all around Europe for weeks, you’ll want to bring a lightweight car seat . Find everything you need to know about traveling with car seats here.

Be sure to read these additional articles as you plan your visit to Spain in winter:

• Must-Read Travel Tips for Spain
• 5 can’t miss things to do in Barcelona with kids (+ important tips for your trip)
• Best Family Hotels in Barcelona: Where to Stay With Kids
• Barcelona: What To Eat For A Delicious Experience
• Spain with kids: best family destinations in Spain

Check out a man’s take on  packing for your trip to Spain ! Or if you prefer a more classical winter destination, check out these  festive hotels to celebrate Christmas at . Traveling a little later? Here are some great places to travel in January .

• 4 simple hacks to save more money on booking.com
• Best small daypacks for women (2020 reviews)

What to read next

22 thoughts on “why you should visit spain in winter”.

What a wealth of information! Thank you!

We have been looking for good winter locations to visit as I have time off during that time. Great post! Thank you!

Thanks! Let me know if you have any questions, we had a wonderful time 🙂

Fantastic idea!! We’ve done the Christmas markets and loved them, but my husband complained the whole time that we were leaving cold for more cold! This looks like a fabulous balance. I’ve been dying to spend some more time in Barcelona, I never would’ve considered Dec/Jan, but I definitely am now!!

wow that was a super lot of info. I have never been to Spain, and really want to go! I have been to Italy at this time of year and the xmas spendor is amazing, but in N Italy it was snowy and cold. I do have a hard time peeling myself away from wanting a warm weather (beach) getaway to escape the snowy NYC Winter season. But you make an awesome case and have great recommendations!!!!!

Glad it was helpful! You should definitely look into it, as you can find a great balance between moderate weather and festive atmosphere, all while basking in the warmth of the Spanish people.

Thanks for this, we are booked for 6 weeks in Spain this winter, no kids, but still enjoy your blog. Looking forward to reading about your gap year, how exciting.

Thanks for your message! I hope you have an amazing trip to Spain. What’s your itinerary?

Well I’m totally convinced. We love Barcelona but the summer crowds and heat do make it more difficult with kids. I love it that you found museums still open all day. We live in a UK tourist spot and quite often find it so difficult to find things to do out of the holiday season! Thanks for linking up with #MondayEscapes

I’m desperately looking for a place to go on a weekend trip before christmas this year. I never considered going to Spain but I’ll definitely look into that now! #MondayEscapes

Oh I completely agree. It is great time to visit to avoid the crowds and make the most of the winter events that take place. Great guide full of tips. Thanks for linking up to #MondayEscapes

Do you know I would have never considered Spain in the winter but I really fancy a December trip now x

Thank youfor all the awesome info. We would like to visit in Jan but were trying to work out whether everything closes while people do family stuff. It sounds like this is not a worry. Awesome blog!

Everything is open in the main towns (perhaps not as universal in the beach resort areas) and you’ll have run of the place!

Very helpful information. Just curious if Spain would also be a good idea for an end of January trip? Do I have to worry about rainfall then?

Hi Amrita, thanks for your question! The weather will be as good as (or better than) anywhere else in Europe but you’d definitely need to prepare for some rain now and then. Temperatures will vary a lot depending on how close you are to the sea and how high elevation you are.

nice article! Very helpful information. Just curious if Spain would also be a good idea for an end of January trip? Do I have to worry about rainfall then?

Hi Alex, There might be a bit of rain, but it won’t be wet every day. Just a few days per month of rain in January and February. Thanks for stopping by!

great content! I love Spain so much:) For me for example is Barcelona one of the best places where to celebrate NYE. It offers plenty events and parties. cheers,enjoy and have fun!

This is so well explained, thank you for this!

I am planning to travel to Spain towards the end of December from 21st to 31st. I am planning to visit Madrid, Seville, Valencia and Barcelona (may change this later). I think you covered the fact that there will be thin crowds, more locals than tourists. In general, will most shop/restaurants and places to visit be closed for the holidays or can I actually have a good time there?

Hi Anirban,

Thanks for stopping by! When you visit Spain in winter you’ll see tons of locals out having fun, and some tourists too now that the secret has gotten out 😉 It’ll be pretty quiet on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. You’ll want to do some research in advance to ensure you have a list of places that will be open on those days.

Safe travels, Melissa

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Spain in December: Must-Visit Winter Destinations and Events

In December, Spain’s charisma may not be in full swing because of the blankets of snow, but there’s definitely a lot to see and do. The cold season is rather famous too, and people come here for the grand fiestas and feasts during the holidays. December in Spain is all about the ski, Christmas markets, food festivals, and tours.

Attractions are still filled but compared to summer and spring, the crowd in December is smaller in number. It’s the time of the year when locals come to the countryside to their family and celebrate the holidays together. Meanwhile, tourists also come for the biggest Christmas events and the colorful decorations.

Every year in December , the whole country becomes festive and illuminating. There are sparkling Christmas lights everywhere and unique traditions are carried out in different regions. From Seville’s Dance of the Seises to Malaga’s flamenco dancing, travelers are in for exciting things ahead during winter .

Table of Contents

December Weather

Expect colder weather in Spain in December as winter officially starts. There’s no question of the cold breeze, but the intensity depends on the region to visit.

Chilly mornings and nights can be experienced in the capital city Madrid , with temperatures dipping to 50 degrees Fahrenheit to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Everywhere near Madrid is gloomy, however, the sun still shows itself in mid-day.

To squeeze in some warmth and more sun, travelers can head to the Mediterranean coast. Barcelona, Almeria, Malaga , and Cadiz have an average temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit daily.

This temperature increases as travelers go further south until Andalucia. While the weather’s quite milder, the mountainous areas in Andalucia are mostly covered in snow, particularly in the Sierra Nevada.

In northern Spain , cities near the Atlantic coast are surprisingly warmer at around 55 degrees Fahrenheit. The mountainous areas in this region are covered in snow, but precipitation is rather common.

Expect more habitual rain during the day, occasional fog, and thunderstorm. In addition, the sun sets earlier at five in the afternoon, and the temperature drops to 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Overall, Spain in December weather is quite gloomy and the temperature drops in the early morning and late at night. To be comfortable while exploring the cities, simply wear the right clothing and bring an umbrella when going out.

Winter Holiday Destinations

Everywhere’s a good destination in December but some cities go all out for the Christmas celebration and events. Travelers can also take advantage of the snow in Sierra Nevada and Pyrenees, where the ski season officially kicks off in December.

Costa del Sol

The fabulous terrains and snowy peaks provide pleasant views for travelers visiting Costa del Sol. Famous for its long stretch of fine beaches, this coastal region comprises lovely cities like Malaga, Marbella, and Nerja. December is a lovely time to visit for the icy plunge and the quiet afternoons.

Malaga transforms into a huge light show with the biggest illuminating displays in plazas and Calle Larios. Every night, the city features lumiere shows that look magical under the dark, dreamy sky.

More than the shows, visitors can also visit the night and pop-up markets and find a number of interesting items and souvenirs.

There’s also a number of events to witness, including the flamenco dancing by troupes from across Spain . Locals gather around streets to join in the fun and experience the Christmas fiesta.

Food is also another reason to visit Malaga for the deep friend breadcrumbs called Migas and other traditional sweets.

Probably the best winter holiday destination minus the ski, Madrid is a massive playground in December. A lot of residents are going out of the city, which means travelers can have the city all to themselves. Snow is uncommon, but it’s pretty cold during the day and especially at night.

Before Christmas, locals can be seen in malls and markets rather than the tourist attractions . It’s the perfect time to visit museums, parks, and a couple of famous landmarks and restaurants.

As December 25 goes near, the capital city becomes festive and more colorful. There are also events like the Solstice bonfires, which marks the Festival of Light parade.

Tourists can also take the Navibus or Christmas bus tour and see the city’s magnificent light displays. If visiting the ski resorts isn’t possible, the city also has ice rinks for ice skating activity. Before heading back into the hotel , warm up in churros and hot chocolate.

December in Spain is special because of the abundance of the markets in almost all neighborhoods. In Madrid, the Plaza Mayor turns into a huge flea market for a number of shops selling handmade items, traditional foods, and others.

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in Madrid.

Sierra Nevada

The premier ski destination in Spain is in Sierra Nevada, featuring 65 miles of ski runs. This is where the crowd flocks for the rest of the winter holiday. It’s known territory for snowboarding and skiing , with visitors peaking to a million.

As early as the first week of December, the accommodation and hotels in the Sierra Nevada start to fill up. When Sierra Nevada Ski Station is fully booked, most people head to nearby cities like Granada , to get a room or cabin. December in this part of Spain is terribly busy, welcoming a plunge of tourists daily.

Granada also offers the best views with snow-capped mountains and lush trees. Aside from this, tourists can also explore the city’s treasured attractions including the Moorish buildings, hiking trails, and the holy grail tapas.

Gaudí’s territory, Barcelona, provides an intimate and warm ambiance in December. The temperature is a bit higher compared to other cities, therefore, people can enjoy lighter clothing. The coastal city holds special events that make winter colorful, exciting, and a lot fun.

Everywhere one looks, an explosion of lights can be seen; plazas are glittering with lights and narrow streets are decorated in Christmas-themed items.

The Gothic Quarter also holds the biggest night markets surrounded by stunning lights and decors. Never forget to drop by Montjuic’s magic fountain and the firework displays at the Plaça d’Espanya.

December is also the best time to drop by popular landmarks and attractions including Gaudí-designed buildings, art museums, and shopping districts.

For food, holiday treats are common in street markets. Grab a handful of turrón or thick tablet of nougat and almonds, neules cylindrical wafer, and King’s cake with marzipan and crema Catalana.

WHERE TO STAY? Best hotels in  Barcelona

Famous Events in December

There’s obviously a lot going on in Spain in December because of Christmas traditions, festivals, and other events. These festivals are one of the reasons for the flock of tourists during winter.

Christmas Day

Like the rest of the world, Christmas Day is a huge affair for Spain. However, the night before December 25 or what locals call nochebuena is more special as families go to a midnight mass and enjoy a feast at home.

Locals cook a traditional Christmas dinner called Pavo Trufado de Navidad, which consists of stuffed turkey and truffles or roasted young hen. In other parts of Spain, such as Galicia, the menu is all seafood—lobster, shellfish, mollusks, and crabs.

Following the midnight service, some towns carry out a parade with people holding torches and playing guitars, tambourines, and drums.

Devil’s Day

In celebration of the Día de los Santos Inocentes on December 28, the town of Castilla La Mancha holds a Devil’s Day festival that involves a man dressed as the devil. This man wanders around town, followed by young children trying to pull its tail.

While young men knock on houses asking for people to contribute food for the village feast, the devil convinces people not to. Basically, the festival is for young people coming of age that year, more fun with dances, auctions, and a mass.

Tourists can join in the fun, participating in food fights, feasts, and other events. Just remember that Día de los Santos Inocentes is like April Fools, when people pull pranks to each other.

Migas Festival Torrox

The Sunday before Christmas marks the Torrox Migas Festival dedicated to the delicacy migas or the deep-fried breadcrumbs. It’s easily become one of the most important gastronomic festivals in Spain, when locals prepare and distribute the main dish Migas.

There are a number of performances and street dancing on this day. Streets are also filled with vendors selling wine , olive oil, raisins, fritters, and other traditional Christmas treats.

Dance of the Seises

Spain in December is a celebration of a traditional dance carried out by young boys who form the choir in Seville. This group of children performs a lively dance in front of the cathedral accompanied by a cappella. Dressed in traditional medieval clothing, the sight is one-of-a-kind and the performance is truly unique.

Check out these activities in Spain

Evan Kristine a.k.a Pretty Wild World is a professional travel blogger with over 10 years of experience in content creation. Originally from the Philippines, she's been living in Finland for 15+ years working as a chef and entrepreneur in Tampere, Finland.

She's an expert in Finland travel and explores the country often sharing her insights and tips in this blog and social medias. She also splits her free time either going for weekend getaways in Europe or galavanting to different European destinations on her holidays. All her useful Europe travel guides are also in this blog!

Evan Kristine is also the food blogger behind at The Kitchen Abroad and on her free time, she enjoys decorating her 75m2 apartment and shares her experience over at Solía Avenue .

A true master of her own life and despite her busy schedule juggling life as a chef, blogger, and entrepreneur, she still finds time to read 50+ books a year and indulge in several hobbies like hiking, working out, yoga, and painting.

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• Spain In December: Celebrate The Holiday Season In The Most Charming Way Ever!

23 Mar 2023

While you are traveling to a place, it is very important to know the right time to visit that place. So, if you are planning to visit Spain in your coming vacation, you need to know the right season to be there. Though summer is the best time to visit Spain, you can choose the winter if you want to avoid the crowd. During the summer, the hotels are almost full and it is also difficult to get flight tickets as it is the peak time. But, once the rash goes away, you can enjoy the raw beauty of Spain in December when the country dresses up with the ornament of Christmas.

Weather Of Spain In December

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December brings chilly weather throughout Spain. The Mediterranean coastal region is a bit warm and soothing of all regions during December. If you want to enjoy the chilly wind and shivering cold, you can visit the capital city, Madrid where the temperature is around 10 degrees Celsius. In San Sebastian, the temperature is a bit higher as it roams around 12 degrees Celsius. In Barcelona, you can also expect a bit higher temperature, like 15 degrees Celsius and once you go to Andalusia, you will get a warm December to enjoy.

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Top 7 Things To Do In Spain In December

Here are some of the best things to do in Spain in December to make your trip eventful. Read on to know more:

1. Costa Brava: Go For SkyDiving 2. AlHambra Fortress: Enjoy The Grand View 3. Limite Zero: Feel The Thrill Of Zip-line Crossing 4. Montserrat Monastery: Have A Peaceful Retreat 5. Funeral Carriages Museum: Get Thrilled 6. Desierto De Tabernas: Have A Trip To The Only Desert Of Europe 7. Sobrino De Botin: Have A Fine Dining Experience

1. Costa Brava: Go For SkyDiving

If you want to add adventure to your trip to Spain, you can go sky diving in Costa Brava. As you are closer to the Mediterranean coast, you can enjoy the warm weather in December. Skydiving over the Mediterranean Sea will give you an out-of-the-world experience. You need to head towards Empuriabrava to have this outstanding experience in Spain. It will be an experience of lifetime.

Location: 17487, Girona, Spain Timing: 9 am to 5.30 pm Entry Fee: Starts from 189 Euros

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2. AlHambra Fortress: Enjoy The Grand View

Established by the Moorish Empire, this fortress is the epitome of the Moorish architecture with the touch of European architecture. Once you are here, you should not miss the outstanding view of Mirador de San Nicolas. The tranquility of this place will surely engulf you and you will have a quality time here with your partner.

Location: Calle Real de la Alhambra, s/n, 18009 Granada, Spain Timing: 9 am to 6 pm Entry Fee: Starts from 36 Euros

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3. Limite Zero: Feel The Thrill Of Zip-line Crossing

While you are on a trip to a new country, you want to make it memorable with certain memories that you, usually, don’t do. How about doing zip line crossing in Spain? You can add more adventure to your life and trip once you go for it. Limite Zero is the only zip-line crossing that will reach you Alcoutim in eastern Algarve from the Andalusian village, Sanlúcar de Guadiana. This trip is for a 1-hour duration and you can cross the Guadiana River of Portugal. Once you have this adventure sport, you will find it thrilling.

Location: Andalusia, Spain Timing: 9 am to 6 pm Entry Fee: Starts from 20 Euros

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4. Montserrat Monastery: Have A Peaceful Retreat

If you have shivered enough in the chilly weather of Madrid in December, you can pack your bags for Barcelona to explore that city while enjoying the bright winter sun and its warmth over there. Once you are in Barcelona and you are tired of roaming around, you can find peace in the famous and old Montserrat Monastery in Barcelona. Founded in the 11th century, this place offers a grand view of the rocky scenery around. Surrounded by the Catalonian Mountain, Montserrat, this monastery can offer you the inner peace you are looking for.

Location: 08199 Montserrat, Barcelona, Spain Timing: 7 am to 7.30 pm Entry Fee: Starts from 7 Euros

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5. Funeral Carriages Museum: Get Thrilled

The theme of this museum is shocking, but if you are in Barcelona, you should not miss visiting it. Established in 1970, this museum is unique of its type throughout Europe. Once you are here, visitors get ideas about the customs and traditions of the funeral in this city. Among the display materials, the tourists will get amazed by seeing the stunning collection of funeral carriages of a different era in Spain, hearses, and lots of other essentials that are required during the funeral of a person.

Location: Carrer de la Mare de Déu de Port, 56, 08038 Barcelona, Spain Timing: 10 am to 2 pm (Only Saturday and Sunday) Entry Fee: Starts from 12.88 Euros

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6. Desierto De Tabernas: Have A Trip To The Only Desert Of Europe

Once you are in Spain, you will find lots of things to do in December. But, if you want to walk on an off-beat lane and do something different, have a day trip to the only desert of Europe, Desierto de Tabernas. It is kind of a semi-desert, located in the province of Almeria and surrounded by the mountains, like Sierra de Los Filabres, Sierra Nevada, and Sierra de Alhamilla. Presently, this place is used as the shooting spot for several Hollywood movies. Once you are here, you can visit lots of local attractions, like Oasys Theme Park, cactus garden, zoo, etc. Enjoy your time at the nearby pools and restaurants.

Location: 04260, Almería, Spain Timing: Opens 24 hours Entry Fee: Free

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7. Sobrino De Botin: Have A Fine Dining Experience

There are lots of lavish restaurants, café, and bistros throughout Spain. What is so special about this particular restaurant that tourists around the world travel to Madrid? You will be surprised to know that this is the world’s oldest restaurant which is nearly 300 years old. Once you are here you should not miss their special item, roasted lamb, which is prepared in the 18th Century wood-fired oven that is still in use!

Location: Calle de Cuchilleros, 17, 28005 Madrid, Spain Timing: 1 pm to 4 pm, 8 pm to 12 am Entry Fee: Free

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Top 3 Festivals In Spain In December

1. Dia De La Constitución 2. Christmas 3. El Gordo Lottery

1. Dia De La Constitución

This is Constitution Day and is celebrated on 6th December. This is a national holiday in the country. Almost all shops and cafes remain closed for that day.

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2. Christmas

There is no doubt this is one of the major festivals in Spain aka the entire world. The country is full of joy and events and you will find lots of Christmas markets throughout the country that will welcome you with gingerbreads, cookies, wine, etc.

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3. El Gordo Lottery

Every year on 22 December, people all over the world turn on their TVs, radios to know the results of the el Gordo Christmas lottery. If you visit Spain in December, you should get a ticket for yourself and join the fun.

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Tips To Visit Spain In December

• If you are in Madrid, layer yourself with several clothes as it is quite cold.
• Pack your bag with sunblock, umbrella, etc. as the winter sun shines brightly.
• Have a shopping spree to buy things from the Christmas markets.
• Wear moisturizers, lip balm, etc. to protect yourself from the shivery cold wind.

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So, here you get a detailed account of Spain in December. This is the time when the crowd is low and you can enjoy the country at its best. have your favorite local food, enjoy your trip to the sprawling cities and have a memorable trip to Spain .

Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer.

Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

Frequently Asked Questions About Spain In December

Is December a good time to visit Spain?

If you don’t want to run in the rush and avoid the crowd, December is the best time to visit Spain. The hotels and flight tickets are quite available at a cheap rate.

Which is the warmest part of Spain in December?

If you don’t want to shiver in the cold wind of winter, you can head towards Tenerife which is the warmest region of Spain in December. You can expect the temperature around 22 degrees Celsius. Also, you can get 6-hours of sunshine.

Can you visit Barcelona in December?

At this time, the temperature of Barcelona can be around 15 degrees Celsius which is quite soothing. So, you can visit Barcelona, but be prepared to have little rain.

Can you expect snow in December in Spain?

Though snow is not that much common in Spain, you can expect it in the top region of the mountains, like the Sierra Nevada. Snow is also not uncommon in Barcelona and Madrid.

Which are the best festivals to enjoy in Spain in December?

Christmas is the most exciting festival in Spain as you can visit the Christmas markets to buy whatever you want. Also, you can take part in the Gospel Festival of Madrid, Migas Festival Torrox in Andalusia, etc.

How to prepare yourself for your trip to Spain in December?

As it is winter, you should carry stylish winter wear. Also, carry lip balms, moisturizers, etc. to keep yourself moisturized. To prevent the sunrays, use sunscreen cream, umbrella, etc.

What type of dress you can wear in Spain?

There is no restriction on your dressing in Spain. You can dress up according to the weather condition. If it is too cold, layer yourself with several winter wear. Wrap yourself with a rain jacket if the weather is rainy.

What to eat in Spain in December?

A winter trip to Spain can be more exciting if you have local delicacies at the cafes and restaurants. You can try shellfish, Turron, Polvoron, cured ham, etc.

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Spain in December: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

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Christmas market at Plaza Mayor in Madrid, Spain

Spain in December echoes with joyful seasonal carols, the glow of twinkling lights, and the iconic beauty for which the country is known.

Locals and fewer tourists fill the streets and plazas, celebrating with seasonal dishes and partaking in events that honor age-old Spanish holiday traditions. Discover superb weather ideal for comfortable exploring, historic sites dressed in their holiday best, festive Christmas markets, celebrations of traditions like the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, and mouthwatering seasonal delicacies.

As December's beauty transforms the country, indulge in Spain's vibrant culture, ceremonies, architecture, and cuisine.

Weather in Spain in December

Where to go in spain in december, what to do in spain in december, plan your trip to spain in december.

Plaza de Espana in Seville, Spain

Average Temperatures in Madrid, Spain: 58°F High • 38°F Low

December in Spain brings cooler yet comfortable daytime temperatures, typically ranging from the mid-50s to low 60s Fahrenheit. While inland and northern areas can be brisk, cities along the southern coast, like Seville, still enjoy pleasant weather, making it possible to explore sights comfortably without the intense summer heat. The moderate conditions create an ideal backdrop for December festivities across Spain.

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Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain

Seville • Best Place for Great Weather

With highs around 60°F, Seville boasts one of the mildest climates in Spain during December. Wander through sunny plazas and relax at outdoor cafes. Trade bulky coats for leisurely strolls through festive plazas, like Plaza Nueva with its bustling Christmas markets or Plaza de España's photogenic ambiance. Climb the La Giralda tower for panoramic views, then delve into Moorish history at the Alcazar fortress. Savor tapas on sunny terraces or bike along the Guadalquivir River for a fresh perspective turning Seville's December into an unforgettable escape.

Barcelona • Best Place for Families with Children

Barcelona in December becomes a playground for families. Wander through enchanting Christmas markets like Fira de Santa Llúcia to marvel at handcrafted gifts and indulge in sweet treats. Witness elaborate nativity scenes, spark imaginations at Tibidabo amusement park, journey through interactive exhibits at CosmoCaixa science museum, and enjoy the dazzling light show at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc, a mesmerizing spectacle set against the city skyline. With its festive spirit, cultural treasures, and family-friendly adventures, Barcelona promises an unforgettable holiday experience for all ages.

Granada • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

In Granada, December paints a romantic winter wonderland. Imagine cozy evenings nestled beside a crackling fireplace, gazing at the snow-capped Sierra Nevada mountains that crown the majestic Alhambra palace. Share breathtaking panoramas with a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise, explore charming Albaicín streets hand-in-hand, or enjoy captivating passion during a flamenco show. Savor a candlelit dinner with panoramic Alhambra views and unwind in a historic hammam for ultimate relaxation.

Zaragoza • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Escape the crowds and discover Zaragoza's hidden gems in December. Explore the stunning Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar without long lines or cycle peacefully along the Ebro River with scenic views. Immerse yourself in winter exhibitions at the Zaragoza or Pablo Serrano museums.

Savor delectable tapas at traditional bars without the city bustle and discover tranquil havens like Monasterio de Piedra or Plaza de los Sitios. Zaragoza offers a charming blend of cultural treasures, natural beauty, and peaceful exploration.

Experience Spain’s Majestic Christmas Markets

Spain's Christmas markets weave magic into the heart of every city, transforming plazas into twinkling wonderlands. Wander iconic spaces like Barcelona's Fira de Santa Llúcia, Seville's Feria de Artesanía, or Zaragoza's Mercado navideño, each pulsating with its own unique charm. Immerse yourself in the festive spirit as carolers serenade you and intricate nativity scenes capture the essence of the season.

Unearth treasures like handcrafted ceramics, ornaments, and regional delicacies like turrón and churros, each echoing Spain's rich artistic heritage. These markets are more than just shopping; they're immersive experiences that transport you into the vibrant heart of Spanish culture and holiday traditions.

Taste Local Delicacies

December in Spain unlocks a treasure trove of delicious seasonal treats. Indulge in melt-in-your-mouth turrón nougat, its flavors ranging from classic almond to decadent chocolate dipped in honey. Savor slices of mantecados , melt-away shortbread cookies dusted with sugar, and polvorones , crumbly and rich with lard and almonds.

Warm your insides with steaming hot chocolate, perfect for dipping churros dusted in cinnamon sugar, or sample Jamón Ibérico , known for its surprising nutty flavor. Pair these specialties with local wines, from Rioja reds to Cava's sparkling elegance. Each bite and sip promises a truly authentic journey through the flavors of Spain.

Attend the Seasonal Festive Events

Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere by attending events and Christmas programming that take place throughout the country. The month is filled with customary celebrations, parades, and festivities that highlight the nation's rich culture and history as Christmas approaches, taking you beyond the typical Christmas markets.

For example, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, celebrated on December 8, is marked by processions, parades, and special masses throughout the country. The streets and squares are full of decorations, lights, and carols. In remote villages like Robledo de Chavela, ancient traditions come alive with bonfire celebrations on the shortest day of the year.

Alhambra Palace in Granada, Spain

With pleasant weather and abundant holiday charm, Spain in December creates wonderful opportunities to experience vibrant culture, festive traditions, architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine.

Whether looking for a family trip, a romantic escape, or an exciting tour across the country, you can find more inspiration with our Spain tours and vacations , or learn more about where to go, what to do, and endless possibilities with our Spain travel guide .

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Spain in December

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Spain in December: Festivities in Low Season

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Spain in December can be a great month to explore the country, even though it is a popular summer destination, especially since a lot of celebrations and fanfare take place at this time of year. Like most parts of the world, Christmas is the most important festival in this winter month in Spain ! However, besides this festive extravaganza, there are plenty of other activities in Spain in December!

Spain Weather in December

Get the fire going and cozy up in your warm wraps as you prepare for the cold December month. Though warmer than most European cities, parts of Spain in December can still get chilly. The coldest temperatures can be found inland, in cities such as Madrid , where the mercury can drop to 0℃ at night. Cities in the north, such as San Sebastian and Bilbao , are warmer, with lows of 5℃ and highs of 13℃. The mercury climbs as you travel southward. If you want to escape the bitter cold of northern Europe, Spain’s Mediterranean coast is the ideal place for you. For instance, in Barcelona , the average temperature in December is 12℃. Though mostly dry, expect seven to eight days of rain throughout Spain in December. For a seasonal overview, check out our travel guide on the best time to visit Spain .

Weather in Spain in December - Rainfall and Temperatures

Why visit spain in december.

Travelers from all over the world pour into Spain in July and August to soak up the sun. However, visiting Spain in winter will give you a completely different perspective of the country and help you get under the skin of its culture, all the while avoiding long queues and sky-high accommodation prices. Below we have listed a few reasons why it is worth heading to Spain in December.

• Christmas season: Christmas is one of the most important festivals in Spain and spending a couple of days in the country during this time will not disappoint you! You can visit Vigo, in Pontevedra, to wander among millions of lights that decorate the city at night or go bargain-hunting in the Christmas market in front of Sagrada Familia in Barcelona .
• Fewer tourists: December is a low season in terms of tourism in Spain. Take this opportunity to wander amid the fairy tale setting of Parc Güell and browse through the collection of the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao . Culture vultures will get more opportunities to mingle with locals in December than at any other time of year.
• More affordable prices: Prices of accommodation, activities, and airline tickets tend to be cheaper in December as high-season crowds are yet to settle in.
• Winter sports: Even though it is rare to see snow in Barcelona and Madrid, there are a few mountainous areas in the country where you can enjoy skiing and snowboarding. The most popular destination is the Sierra Nevada Mountain chain, close to Granada , while the Pyrenees and Teruel are also not far behind. Alternatively, you can take equestrian tours in Spain on warmer winter days.

Where to go and what to do

Granada should be a pit stop for those interested in winter sports. This city is located close to Sierra Nevada National Park , home to the highest mountain range in the country, where one can enjoy all sorts of winter sports. Similarly, those into arts and culture are sure to have a field day in Barcelona and Madrid. Find yourself surrounded by the works of some of the greatest artists the world has ever seen during your trip to museums, such as El Prado and Picasso. Those interested in Christmas celebrations can head for the city of Arcos de la Frontera , where the nativity scene is reenacted every year. About 20,000 people from all over Spain come to watch this remarkable show. Food lovers will find themselves at home in Jijona , located in the Alicante region, where a Christmas fair is organized. Here, you will get the chance to try a variety of local products like turrón and marzipan. In addition to all this, December is also a great month to visit the national parks located in the south of the country before the unbearable summer heat makes the journey uncomfortable. Discover Parque Natural del Estrecho , which is located at the southernmost tip of the Spanish mainland and is home to numerous species of birds.

Although spending your winter holidays on the Iberian Peninsula might not sound like a good idea, visiting Spain in December comes with many perks. Temperatures are mild, especially when compared with other European destinations, and the country offers plenty of activities for all kinds of travelers. You can opt for an adventurous skiing trip in the Pyrenees , go museum-hopping in Madrid , be part of festive crowds in towns and cities throughout the country, or even explore national parks and wildlife reserves. Wondering how long does it take to cover it all? Check out our travel guide on how many days to spend in Spain for more ideas and insights. If you are in the process of planning your custom trip to Spain and need some help, feel free to reach out to our local travel experts. You can also browse through our trips to Spain in December for more ideas and inspiration.

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The 7 Best Places To Visit In Spain In December

We are about ready to take a vacation at any time of the year, but there’s no denying that there’s something different about a winter getaway. Maybe it’s spending the holiday season all bundled up from the cold, or it could be escaping the cold altogether and coming home with a nice tan! It may surprise you to know that in Spain, both of these are possible. We’ve got the best places to visit in Spain in December coming your way, so don’t go anywhere just yet! 

Your mind might jump to bustling cities and beautiful beaches when you think about Spain (you wouldn’t be wrong!), but the country has so much more to offer. From historical towns filled with ancient history to vast mountain ranges… there’s even skiing in Spain if you would believe! If the amazing landscapes aren’t enough to convince you to head on over, then just think of the tapas. Patatas Bravas, Croquetas, Gambas Al Ajillo, need we say more???

Believe it or not, December is a fantastic time to head to Spain, some of the best places to visit are less crowded AND cheaper than the summer , plus there’s all the awesome Christmas festivities! Our epic list has wintery destinations (for those of you who prefer a more traditional holiday scene), city breaks, and some more coastal destinations because life’s a beach (even in December). Here they are:

Table of Contents

Madrid is a must-visit any time of the year, but in December, you’ll have a tonne of Christmas activities to enjoy. The whole city gets a makeover for the holidays with magical Christmas lights galore. The city even has a Christmas-themed double-decker bus A.K.A the Navibus (we’re not kidding), that weaves in and around the city center giving you the best view possible of the holiday lights!

Christmas markets should be at the top of your list if you find yourself in Europe over December, and Madrid has a few for the books. The city’s biggest and most famous Christmas market can be found in Plaza Mayor and is a favorite amongst tourists AND locals (that’s how you know it’s good). The sprawling market has over 100 stalls with everything from hand-carved nativity scenes to crazy hats! If you happen to be in Madrid at the beginning of the month, then the annual Santa Claus Race is well worth a watch. Thousands of Santas participate to raise money for charity, and if you’re a keen runner yourself, you could give it a go! 

Madrid is cold and dry in December, with temperatures hovering around 50 – 59°F. You’ll want to pack lots of layers and a nice coat to keep you warm as you wander around the Royal Palace of Madrid and the Palacio De Cristal! December flights to Madrid are more expensive than the rest of the year, but if you book early enough, you’ll be able to find reasonably priced flights and accommodation. 

Barcelona is one of the best places in Spain to visit in December. Don’t get us wrong, this city is fantastic at any time of the year, but the colder temperatures halve the number of tourists visiting the city. You’ll get to see top sights like La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, and Barri Gotic, without the hoards of other people *does victory dance*. The weather is pleasant with plenty of winter sunshine and temperatures between 50 – 59°F. 

As for the holiday festivities, Barcelona won’t disappoint! The city streets get decorated with lights over the holidays, and Christmas markets begin popping up all over town! Santa Llucia Fair in the gothic quarter (Barri Gotic) is the oldest Christmas market in town with over 300 stalls and has roots that date back to the 1700s! While you’re there, make sure to wander over to Place de Sant Jaume to get a peek at their annual (and sometimes controversial) nativity scene. 

December is also a great time to catch a game of soccer at Camp Nou as La Liga is getting in full swing. If you don’t find yourself in the city on a match day, then taking a tour around Europe’s biggest stadium is a great way to spend the afternoon and a must for any soccer fan. Unsurprisingly, this time of the year is perfect for trying some traditional Spanish holiday dishes! Some traditional Catalan dishes to be on the lookout for are Turron (or Torro), Escudella I Carn D’olla, and Canelons. 

We’ve got another stellar city break for you, this time in the capital of Andalusia – Seville ! While this city might seem like the perfect summer destination, let us tell you all about why it’s one of the best places in Spain to visit in December. In the summer the city is extremely crowded and temperatures can reach a sweltering 97°F. In the winter, on the other hand, the city will be less crowded and the weather is surprisingly mild, reaching up to 62°F! Some might even say it’s warm enough to enjoy a coffee outdoors in a sidewalk cafe. How charming! 

The city also has plenty of traditional holiday events going on during the month. There are plenty of Christmas markets to choose from, but for the cream of the crop, head to Mercado Navideño de Artesanía for handmade toys, clothes, and ornaments! Once you’ve had your fill, head to a nearby tapas bar to warm up with some Seville favorites – like pork in whiskey sauce and a glass of local sherry. If alcohol isn’t your jam, get cozy with a cup of hot chocolate and some churros instead. 

One of the highlights of Seville is buying local sweets and baked goods from the local convents, but for a real treat (pun intended), plan to be in the city for the second week of December. This is when the nuns, who normally stay secluded for the rest of the year, host a huge bake sale in Real Alcazar, a beautiful palace with Gothic, Renaissance, and Mudejar influences. Some other architectural masterpieces to see in Seville are the Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, and Plaza de Espana. 

Gran Canaria

Now to take care of you snowbirds. Of course, anywhere in the Canary Islands would make a wonderful December getaway. But, we’re picking good old Gran Canaria as this is the hottest island over the winter. December temperatures in Gran Canaria can reach up to 71.6°F (don’t mind if we DO), so spending your holidays on the beach isn’t so far-fetched after all! While this month is considered as a high season on the island, you won’t find big crowds until a couple of days before Christmas, lasting well into the New Year. Because of this, if you plan to spend your Christmas day sunning it up, we suggest you book your tickets early. 

Gran Canaria isn’t your typical holiday season destination, so if you’re looking for tradition, look elsewhere. This place is more about snorkeling in the ocean (still possible in December but you may want some extra layers!), dolphin and whale watching , and lounging on the island’s golden sand beaches. If you’re a hiking fanatic, there are some great hikes, and for a romantic walk, head to the Maspalomas Dunes at sunset!  

There are still some holiday-themed activities, however! For a truly unique nativity scene, you HAVE to check out the sand sculptures at Playa de las Canteras. Imagine Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, but… all carved out of sand! Now that’s seriously cool. Another great thing about Gran Canaria over December is that if you do decide to stick around for Christmas, lots of restaurants stay open to serve Christmas Dinner, they even serve tourist-friendly roast dinners on the big day. It’s awesome. 

Costa Del Sol

This well-known summer party destination may not be the first place in Spain that comes to mind when you think “December getaway”, but actually, it’s a fantastic place to visit! The holiday season in Costa del Sol is full of festive activities and events, and to make it even more attractive, temperatures hover around 62.6°F on average *whips out bikini*. Every town has a lot going on over December, so no matter where you decide to stay, there’ll be plenty to see and do. Best of all, since the high season is in June, July, and August, spending December in Costa del Sol means fewer crowds, lower prices, and less stress!

Malaga is the regional capital of the area and the most famous town. This means if you want the most festive activities, this is the place to be! But, it does mean that it will be the busiest town. One of the top activities in Malaga is to see the lights at Calle Larios, the lights are suspended high above the street (which is a great place for finding some last-minute Christmas gifts), and if you visit in the evening, you’ll be treated to a light show which is accompanied by some festive music! Taking a tour of the nativity scenes is another great way to get into the holiday spirit, every little town and village along the Costa del Sol coast has them, but Malaga has by far the most. 

If you’re not in the mood to do something Christmas-related (you Scrooge!) then the mild weather over winter in the Costa del Sol means you can still enjoy the regular activities. Think seaside dining, horseback riding, hiking, golf, and exploring nearby villages. There’s lots to do, even at this time of the year. 

The Aragonese Pyrenees

We couldn’t write a list of the best places in Spain to visit in December and not include somewhere with a lot of snow! That’s right, even in Spain, there are places to get your snow gear on, whether it’s for skiing, snowboarding, or a classic snowball fight. The Pyrenees mountains in Aragon have some of the country’s best ski resorts, and in December, there should be enough snow to spend a couple of days whizzing around the slopes. 

Candanchu is the highest ski resort in the area and is known for being the oldest ski resort in Spain ! There are slopes to suit every skill level and over 27 ski lifts and around 40km of marked pistes. If you’re looking for a bit more of a “nordic feel” to your December getaway or are worried about the chances of the weather (or lack of) ruining your vacation, then you should head to Panticosa. The resort sits at over 1600 meters above sea level, and artificial snow keeps the slopes open even if there’s a lack of snowfall.

If you’re not a skier, then don’t fret, as other activities include cross country skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing (not for the inexperienced), mushing, and snowboarding!

If you’re someone who goes off the beaten path and prefers exploring lesser-known destinations, then might we suggest Avila?

Avila is a breathtaking Medieval city located around 100km west of Madrid. The Old Town is surrounded by iconic stone walls and turrets that were built as far back as the 11th century to protect the city from the Moors. While this historical city is incredible to visit in the summer, December can also be an amazing time! The weather is crisp and cool, with temperatures that range between 32 and 48°F on average, and only five days of rain over the month.  

Some of the best things to do in Avila are walking along the ancient stone walls, visiting the historical cathedral (which is one of the oldest Gothic cathedrals in the entire country), and getting lost in the narrow streets of the Old Town. December brings lower prices and fewer crowds, and the city gets decorated with festive decorations and lights so you can still get into the holiday spirit!

Reece is the creator and editor of Travel Snippet. He has visited more than 38 countries over a 10-year period. His travels have taken him through the majestic mountains of Italy, into the cities of central Europe, across the islands of Indonesia, and to the beaches of Thailand, where he is currently living. He is passionate about travel and shares his expertise by providing the best travel tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure.

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Spain In December – The Festival Month Is All Set To Brighten Your Vacation!

It would be a lie if you say that you have never dreamt of having a happy vacation to Spain after watching the famous Bollywood movie – Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara! Did I get you right? Well, splendid Spain is undoubtedly one of the most loved European countries. Let it be the famous Tomatina festival , stunning beaches , lip-smacking Spanish cuisine, magnificent architectural works, adrenaline rushing adventure activities, eye-catching flamenco dance or the nail-biting bullfight, Spain has you covered completely. Have you ever thought about how exciting would it be to spend your vacation in Spain in December? Haven’t given a thought yet? Well, after reading this article, I am sure you will find some amazing reasons on why should you spend the festival month in Spain in December.

Also Read: Spain Travel Guide: Top Cities, Places To Visit, Food to Try in Spain

Why Spain in December?

December is the festive month, it truly gives an exciting vibe throughout the month. The Christmas vibes, continued by the New Year vibes make the month of December one of the best months ever. If you are someone who is looking to celebrate the winter effects of December with some sunny vibes as well? If yes, Spain in December is the ultimate choice for you to spend your Christmas vacation! You will be able to enjoy the winter vibes without getting really cold as the summer always got your back. Apart from the interesting weather, the whole of Spain looks totally splendid in the December vibes! Well, there is a lot more you will need to know. So, keep reading…

Spain Tour Package Starting @ ₹74,660

Pristine beaches. Exotic Stays. Tapas & wines. Quirky Festivals

Is the weather favourable in Spain in December?

Surprisingly, in December, Spain is actually warmer compared to the rest of Europe. However, the weather may change depending on the place and overall it can also be cold during December in most of the parts of Spain. But not to worry, there is a good chance where one can enjoy both winter and warm days in Spain. The chill weather will light up the real beauty of most of the places and allows the tourists to travel throughout Spain without any struggle in terms of the weather condition.

Events and festivals in Spain in December

Being Christmas month, Spain is been filled with lovely events which are worth a visit. Among all of those, we here at Pickyourtrail have got the top 3 events and festivals celebrated in Spain in December.

• Feast of the Immaculate Conception
• Christmas Day
• New Year Eve

1. Feast of the Immaculate Conception

The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is a feast of the Roman Catholic Church which is been celebrated on the 8th of December. On this particular day, the Catholics celebrate the miraculous conception of the Virgin Mary. Since most of the Spanish people are Roman Catholics, this day is considered to be very important to the whole of Spain. On this day, you will be amazed to see the streets being filled with sparkling lightings all over. Make sure to take a lovely stroll with your loved ones to witness the beginning of Christmas vibes, to purchase something amazing in the Christmas markets, and to taste the lip-smacking sweets.

2. Christmas Day

And yes! Celebrating Christmas Day in Spain in December is the ultimate reason for any of the travellers to visit Spain during this particular month. After the Midnight Mass or ‘La Misa Del Gallo’, Christmas is all set up for the people. You will find plenty of things to do on this particular day. Decorations have been done across Spain to celebrate Christmas makes all of us stay awake with its vibrating sparkles of lights. One can also have a look at the special storytelling events, choir events, special markets being put on Christmas eve and what not! It is a day to celebrate life!

3. New Year Eve

And here comes another obvious celebration on the list, New Year Eve! The party town turns more & more crazy and lively as the clock ticks closer to 12 AM. As the clock strikes down to midnight, half of the people according to their culture follow up taking certain traditional things as wishing good luck and prosperity in the upcoming year. The other half of the people gather at Puerta del Sol Square in Madrid to celebrate the New Year along with the other folks and then get ready to stay awake all night by partying!

Places to visit in Spain in December

• Canary Islands

The brilliant light display in Seville city gives a classy look to the whole city. Some of the must-visit places in the Seville are Seville Cathedral, La Giralda, Plaza de España, and the Museum of Arts and Traditions. In addition, Seville holds the traditional dance of the Seises event in the month of December. Now, that’s good news, huh? This traditional dance takes place at Seville’s cathedral on the 8th of December. To add up, accommodations are also easy to book in Seville in December which will be found within walking distance from the main attractions.

Also Read: Places to visit in Seville: Top attractions in the Andalusian capital

2. Canary Islands

Canary Island is a must-visit in Spain in December if you need to escape from the cold. Interestingly, the Canary Islands has become one of the famous places in Spain, especially to visit in the winter days as the weather here is warmer. So, if you are looking for some sunny days in December, Canary Island should ultimately be your pick. One can simply rest here looking at the beautiful sunny sky with their loved ones or indulge in any activities available in the Canary Islands.

3. Barcelona

If you are looking for a winter city break, a visit to Barcelona can really be an exciting one! The tourists might be in a less number in Barcelona which makes it perfect for the crowd haters to explore this striking city. Even though it is winter season, everything in Barcelona stays the same. The activity areas, tourist attractions, markets, bars and every other thing remains to be open all time. So, take a stroll and enjoy every possible experience that the city has to offer you.

Also Read: Travel Guide To Barcelona In March That Can Leave You Awe-Struck

A visit to Spain in December may not be the best month to visit, but if you plan things accordingly, it could be the best month ever to cover the beauty of Spain. And to plan things accordingly, you will need a perfect travel planner. Well, why worry when Pickyourtrail is here! Check out the Spain packages or Spain honeymoon packages on the Pickyourtrail website and get ready for a lovely vacation planned with us. In addition, you can also customise your very own itinerary to Spain. Unwrap the world with Pickyourtrail!

Kajani Shivam

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Weather in Spain in December (2024): The Ultimate Guide

The weather in Spain in December is when the winter vibes really start to set in, bringing a cozy, festive feel with them. The days get cooler and the nights colder, setting the perfect scene for holiday lights and warm drinks in cozy cafes.

But in some ways, this can make it harder to know what to expect and how to pack for it! After all, are you likely to get snow, so you should bring that heavy jacket? Or is that way too much?

Living in Spain, I’ve come to love the unique charm of December. It’s a great time to soak in the festive markets in cities like Barcelona or find a quiet, snowy spot in the mountains.

So keep reading to see what to expect and how to enjoy Spain during this chilly, cheerful month.

Table of Contents

Weather in Spain in December

Spain in December offers a variety of weather conditions, depending on where you are. You’ll find mild winter temperatures and generally pleasant days in many parts of the country and freezing temperatures in others. However, it’s important to pack both warm and cooler clothing to be prepared for fluctuating weather.

In December, northern regions such as Galicia can be quite cold, with average temperatures ranging from 4°C (39°F) to 10°C (50°F), while in the south, in Andalusia, average temperatures are milder, often between 7°C (45°F) and 15°C (59°F).

The central plateau, including cities like Madrid, experiences colder weather, with lows which can drop to 2°C (36°F) and highs up to 10°C (50°F).

Spain’s coastal regions, such as the Costa del Sol, maintain warmer conditions with more sun, providing a pleasant escape from the chill of northern areas. However, don’t be fooled by the milder coast – it can still feel quite chilly, especially in the evenings.

December also brings an increase in precipitation across most of Spain. You’re likely to encounter more rainy days, with an average of 50ml (1.97 inches) to 95ml (3.74 inches) of rain depending on the region.

Despite the rain, there are still many sunny days to enjoy, especially in the southern parts of the country.

Not sure exactly when you’re coming to Spain? If you might be coming slightly earlier, take a look at what the weather is like in Spain in November .

Maybe planning to visit a bit later? Check out the weather in January in Spain to see what you can expect.

How Hot Is Spain in December?

Spain in December is generally cool, with average highs ranging around 14°C (57°F) in the northern regions. In the southern parts, you’ll find it a bit warmer, typically around 18°C (64°F). The coastal areas, especially along the Mediterranean, can offer milder temperatures still, sometimes reaching up to 20°C (68°F).

When you’re planning a trip to Spain in December, packing warm clothing is advisable as nights tend to be chilly, particularly inland where temperatures can drop. While the days might be mild, evenings will remind you that winter has set in.

The variability in weather patterns across different regions of Spain requires preparing for a range of conditions. Precipitation is also a factor, but generally, December isn’t one of the wettest months in Spain, so you won’t usually encounter much rainfall.

Which Part of Spain Is Warmest in December?

The warmest part of Spain in December is generally the Canary Islands. Here, you’ll find milder temperatures and more sunny days compared to the mainland. December weather in the Canaries sees average highs around 22°C (72°F). The southern parts of Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and Lanzarote tend to be the warmest.

Tenerife’s southern coast, for example, boasts some of the warmest winter temperatures in the country.

You won’t need heavy winter clothing in these regions, but it’s a good idea to bring layers for the evenings, which can be cooler. Rainfall is limited, with places like Tenerife receiving an average of 30ml (1.18 inches) in December, ensuring most of your vacation days will be dry.

Mainland southern Spain, particularly the Costa del Sol and some parts of Andalusia, also offers relatively warm weather. Locations such as Malaga experience average highs of approximately 15°C (59°F) during this month.

While not as warm as the Canary Islands, these areas still provide a comfortable winter escape.

Which Part of Spain Is Coldest in December?

The coldest area in Spain during December is the northern mountainous, including the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Mountains. Here, you’ll encounter below-freezing temperatures, particularly at higher altitudes. The central plateau, including Madrid and Castilla y León, also experiences cold temperatures because of its plain nature and continental climate, despite being at a lower altitude.

Besides the cold, these regions have varying levels of precipitation during December. The Pyrenees can get quite snowy, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

The central plateau usually gets less snow, but you should still be prepared for the occasional snowfall, which can cover the plains in a thin white layer.

You should pack warm clothes if visiting these regions in December, as temperatures can be quite brisk. Dress in layers to adapt to changing conditions, and don’t forget a good pair of waterproof boots, as you may encounter snow or rain.

Weather in Different Regions of Spain in December

Weather in southern spain in december.

In December, you can expect Southern Spain to have mild temperatures compared to much of Europe. The days are usually sunny with some occasional rainfall. Temperatures typically create a comfortable climate for winter travel, without the harsh cold found in northern Europe.

• Temperature: Daytime highs average around 15°C (59°F), with nighttime lows dropping to about 7°C (45°F).
• Average days of rainfall: Expect about 6 to 9 days of rain in December.
• Average amount of rainfall: The region typically sees around 50-70 mm (1.97-2.75 inches) of rain, indicating occasional wet days.
• Sea temperature: The sea temperature averages around 16°C (61°F), which is generally too cold for swimming.
• Number of hours of sunlight: Expect about 5 to 6 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Weather in Northern Spain in December

December in Northern Spain is known for its cold weather. You can expect temperatures to often hover around 4-10°C (39-50°F). Rainfall isn’t uncommon, with several days in the month likely to be wet and there’s a good chance of snow if you’re in the Pyrenees mountains.

• Temperature: Average temperatures range from highs of about 10°C (50°F) to lows near 4°C (39°F).
• Average days of rainfall: There are around 12 to 15 days of rain in December, with frequent showers.
• Average amount of rainfall: The region receives about 100-120 mm (3.94-4.72 inches) of rain.
• Sea temperature: Sea temperatures average around 14°C (57°F), too cold for swimming.
• Number of hours of sunlight: Northern Spain experiences approximately 4 to 5 hours of daylight per day in December.

Weather in Barcelona in December

December in Barcelona is cool and occasionally wet, marking a quiet and festive time in the city, ideal for enjoying its cultural offerings and Christmas markets. It’s a good idea to pack a raincoat, as you can expect around 51 mm (2 inches) of rain over the month.

• Temperature: Average daytime temperatures are around 14°C (57°F), while nighttime temperatures hover around 6°C (43°F).
• Average days of rainfall: Expect around 5 to 7 days of rain in December.
• Average amount of rainfall: Rainfall averages around 40 mm (1.57 inches), with a mix of sunny and rainy days.
• Sea temperature: The sea temperature in December averages about 16°C (61°F).
• Number of hours of sunlight: Barcelona enjoys around 5 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Weather in the Canary Islands in December

December in the Canary Islands offers a respite from the colder weather of mainland Europe, with mild temperatures. You’ll experience more sunshine than in mainland Spain, averaging about six hours of daylight. Rainfall is relatively low, with an average of 30 mm (1.18 inches) across the islands.

• Temperature: Average temperatures range from highs of around 22°C (72°F) to nighttime lows of 17°C (63°F), offering comfortable conditions.
• Average days of rainfall: Rainfall is minimal in December, with about 3 to 5 days of rain.
• Average amount of rainfall: The islands receive an average of about 30 mm (1.18 inches) of rain, ensuring mostly dry days.
• Sea temperature: The average sea temperature is around 20°C (68°F), which can be refreshing for swimming for some people.
• Number of hours of sunlight: The Canary Islands enjoy about 6 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Weather in Mallorca in December

Mallorca experiences mild winters, and December is no exception. You can expect cooler temperatures compared to the summer months and it’s also a wetter month than the rest of the year. Overall, though, the island experiences a much milder winter compared to much of Europe.

• Temperature: The average high temperature is around 15°C (59°F), with nighttime temperatures around 8°C (46°F).
• Average days of rainfall: There are about 7 to 9 days of rain in December.
• Average amount of rainfall: The rainfall averages around 50 mm (1.97 inches), with frequent showers.
• Sea temperature: The sea temperature averages about 16°C (61°F), which is cool for swimming.
• Number of hours of sunlight: Mallorca enjoys roughly 5 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Weather in Ibiza in December

In December, Ibiza experiences mild temperatures and a fair amount of rainfall, marking a quieter and more relaxed time on the island. Daytime temperatures hover around 15°C (59°F), while at night they can drop to about 9°C (48°F). You’ll need to pack some warm and waterproof clothing for both sunny days and rainy periods.

• Temperature: Average temperatures in Ibiza during December range from highs of 15°C (59°F) to lows around 9°C (48°F).
• Average days of rainfall: The island typically experiences about 7 to 9 days of rain in December.
• Average amount of rainfall: Ibiza receives an average rainfall of about 50 mm (1.97 inches).
• Sea temperature: The average sea temperature is around 16°C (61°F), which is generally too cool for swimming.
• Number of hours of sunlight: Expect about 5 hours of sunlight per day in Ibiza during December.

Weather in Madrid in December

December in Madrid offers a crisp and sometimes cold winter atmosphere, with the city adorned in festive decorations and lights, perfect for enjoying its indoor and outdoor attractions. It’s also a time when you might encounter occasional rain showers, so it’s best to bring a waterproof coat.

• Temperature: Daytime highs average around 10°C (50°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to about 2°C (36°F).
• Average days of rainfall: Expect about 5 to 7 days of rainfall in December.
• Average amount of rainfall: Rainfall averages around 30 mm (1.18 inches).
• Number of hours of sunlight: Madrid experiences approximately 4 to 5 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Weather in Tenerife in December

Tenerife enjoys a mild and pleasant climate in December, making it a popular choice for those seeking a warm winter holiday destination. You’ll experience more sunshine and warmer weather here than in mainland Europe. However, you should be prepared for occasional rainfall.

• Temperature: Average high temperatures are around 21°C (70°F), with lows at night around 16°C (61°F).
• Average days of rainfall: Rainfall increases slightly with about 5 to 7 rainy days in the month.
• Average amount of rainfall: The island receives an average of about 30 mm (1.18 inches) of rain, mostly dry with occasional showers.
• Sea temperature: The sea temperature averages around 20°C (68°F), which is still suitable for swimming for some people.
• Number of hours of sunlight: Tenerife enjoys about 6 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Weather in Costa del Sol in December

In December, you can expect milder temperatures in Costa del Sol although it remains relatively mild overall, making it a pleasant escape from the harsher winters found in many parts of Europe. At night, temperatures can dip, so you’ll want to pack some warm clothing.

• Temperature: Average temperatures range from highs of about 17°C (63°F) to lows of 10°C (50°F).
• Average days of rainfall: There are around 5 to 7 rainy days in December, with occasional showers.
• Average amount of rainfall: The region sees an average rainfall of about 40-60 mm (1.57-2.36 inches).
• Number of hours of sunlight: Costa del Sol enjoys about 5 to 6 hours of sunlight per day in December.

Weather in Valencia in December

In December, Valencia experiences cooler temperatures and a higher chance of rain. It’s not too cold, but you’ll still need a jacket or coat for most activities, even though the city generally remains milder than many other European destinations during winter.

• Temperature: The average high temperature is around 16°C (61°F), while the lows at night can drop to about 7°C (45°F).
• Average days of rainfall: Valencia experiences around 5 to 7 days of rain in December./
• Average amount of rainfall: The average rainfall is about 40 mm (1.57 inches).
• Number of hours of sunlight: Expect around 5 hours of sunlight per day in Valencia during December.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Spain?

December in Spain mostly offers a mild winter experience, especially when compared to other European countries. You’ll find it’s less crowded than the peak tourist seasons, which means you get to explore more comfortably. While the weather varies by region, you’re likely to encounter cool to cold temperatures and some festive events.

In the southern region, like Andalusia, daytime temperatures hover around 12-17°C (54-63°F) which is quite pleasant. Nights can be chillier, dropping to around 4-6°C (39-43°F).

Northern Spain is cooler, with average temperatures ranging from 8-14°C (46-57°F) during the day and potentially below freezing at night. Coastal areas in the north, like Galicia, might be wetter, with December averages of over 200 ml (7.9 inches) of rain.

And then in the higher altitude areas, you can even come to Spain for a skiing holiday!

Cultural events during December add a special allure to your visit. Cities like Madrid and Barcelona are adorned with lights and decorations, embracing the festive cheer.

You can also experience unique Spanish traditions, such as the caga tió and caganer in Barcelona (seriously, look them up) and vibrant New Year’s celebrations complete with the “Twelve Grapes” tradition at midnight.

Do remember that December 25th and January 1st are public holidays in Spain. Many shops and attractions may close or have limited hours, so planning ahead is vital.

Which Part of Spain Is Best to Visit in December?

Depending on your preferences, several regions in Spain offer unique experiences in December. You might prefer the milder climates of the southern regions or enjoy the festive atmosphere of the cities. Some areas are ideal for winter sports, while others provide a reprieve from the cold.

Southern Spain , particularly Andalusia, provides a relatively warm climate during December. Cities in that part of the country like Seville, Malaga, and Granada offer a range of cultural experiences with fewer tourists.

Northern Spain , such as the region of Galicia, offers a cooler and wetter climate which can feel quite brisk. However, this is compensated for by the spirited atmosphere and festive celebrations, especially in cities like Santiago de Compostela.

Northeastern Spain , hosting the Pyrenees, is perfect if you’re looking for a winter sports destination. Expect colder temperatures and snow with some incredibly picturesque landscapes.

Basically, whether you’re looking for winter warmth, cultural festivities, or alpine sports, Spain in December caters to a variety of interests. It’s all about finding the region that aligns with what you’re looking for in a holiday experience.

Is it hot in Spain in December?

No, in December, you won’t find hot weather in Spain as it’s winter season. Temperatures vary depending on the region you visit, with some being much warmer than northern Europe. However, expect cooler climate with a chance of rain, particularly in the Northern areas.

In coastal regions such as Barcelona and Valencia, temperatures during the day range from 9°C to 14°C (48°F to 57°F), while nighttimes can drop to around 4°C to 9°C (39°F to 48°F).

Heading south to Andalusia, it can be slightly warmer – Seville, for example, sees daytime temperatures between 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F) and nighttime lows of 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F).

Madrid, located at a higher altitude in the center of Spain, experiences cooler weather. Here, daytime temperatures hover around 6°C to 9°C (43°F to 48°F), with night temperatures often falling to 1°C to 5°C (34°F to 41°F).

Up north, cities like Bilbao and Santiago de Compostela see even more significant drops, with average temperatures ranging from 5°C to 10°C (41°F to 50°F) and a higher likelihood of rain, receiving approximately 120ml to 160ml (4.7in to 6.3in) throughout the month.

You should also be ready for occasional snowfalls if you plan to visit mountainous regions such as the Pyrenees or the Sierra Nevada. It’s always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip for the most accurate information and to pack accordingly.

But overall, warm clothing and rain gear are essential for traveling to Spain in December – you won’t get a typical beach holiday at this time of the year.

Is it cold in Spain in December?

Yes, it can be quite cold in Spain during December, especially in the northern and central parts of the country. You’ll find that temperatures often dip below 10°C (50°F) and even reach freezing in many areas. However, the southern coastal areas are generally milder.

Here’s a summary of the cold you can expect:

• Northern Spain: Expect chilly conditions with averages from 4°C to 11°C (39°F to 51°F). It’s not uncommon for places like the Pyrenees to have snow, making it a popular time for skiing.
• Central Spain: Madrid and the surrounding areas see similar temperatures to the north, if not a few degrees lower, though it can feel colder due to wind chill.
• Southern Spain: Coastal cities like Malaga experience milder weather with averages from 8°C to 17°C (46°F to 62°F). Inland areas, such as Seville, have slightly cooler nights.

Rainfall across Spain varies, but you’re less likely to encounter much in December. Southern areas usually have drier conditions compared to the north.

On average, you might see 50 ml (1.97 inches) in Madrid, while coastal areas could have around 100 ml (3.94 inches).

What to Pack When Visiting Spain in December

In December, you’ll find Spain’s weather to be quite varied depending on where you are. It’s generally colder with potential for rain, so packing layers is key. You’ll want a warm jacket and waterproof items to stay comfortable while exploring.

Here’s a general packing list to make sure you’re prepared for the weather in Spain in December:

• Warm jacket: Preferably waterproof, as December can bring rain showers, averaging around 50 ml (around 2 inches) in places like Madrid.
• Layers: Long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and thermal wear will help you adapt to changing temperatures, which can range from 1°C (34°F) in the North to 14°C (57°F) in the South.
• Scarf, hat, and gloves: While you won’t need these in every part of the country, at least a scarf is a good idea for chilly mornings and evenings.
• Umbrella: Compact and sturdy to handle sudden showers.
• Comfortable walking shoes: Waterproof if possible, as you may encounter wet conditions.
• Boots: For warmth and to keep feet dry on rainy or cooler days.

Remember, indoor heating can be less powerful than you’re used to, so even inside, a good set of warm pajamas can keep you cozy. In addition, checking the local weather forecast for your specific destinations right before packing ensures you’re prepared for any unexpected changes in weather.

Main Events in Spain in December

In December, Spain offers a variety of events that showcase its rich culture and festive spirit. From religious festivals to lively markets, there’s something for everyone. The month is packed with unique traditions, many of which are centuries old.

• Fiesta de Santa Lucía : In the lead-up to Christmas, the Feast of Saint Lucy is celebrated, particularly in the region of Catalonia. You can enjoy traditional music, dancing, and parades.
• Christmas Markets : Spanish Christmas markets are magical, with stalls that sell crafts, food, and holiday items. Cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville host beautifully decorated markets where you can find unique gifts.
• Feria del Belén de Sevilla : This is one of Spain’s most important nativity scene markets, held in Seville. Here, you’ll find everything needed to create the perfect belén , a Spanish nativity scene.
• Día de la Constitución : December 6 marks Constitution Day, a national holiday commemorating Spain’s transition to democracy. You’ll observe fewer events on this day since many spend it with family.
• La Inmaculada Concepción : Celebrated on December 8, it’s a public holiday that involves religious processions and festivities in honor of the Immaculate Conception.
• Las Hogueras de Navidad : An ancient winter solstice tradition, where people jump over bonfires in belief it will protect them from illness. This event is particularly popular in Granada.
• Christmas Eve and Christmas Day : Festivities peak on these days with family meals, church services, and the exchange of gifts.
• Nochevieja and New Year’s Eve Celebrations : Spaniards celebrate New Year’s Eve with parties, eating 12 grapes at midnight for good luck, and enjoying fireworks.
• El Día de los Santos Inocentes : On December 28, Spain’s version of April Fools’ Day takes place, where pranks are played and the mood is jovial.
• New Year’s Concerts : Cities often host concerts to welcome the new year, featuring a range of music from classical to contemporary.

Where to Go in Spain in December

Spain offers a diverse range of destinations in December, whether you’re looking for winter sun or cultural festivities. The Canary Islands are known for their mild weather, so can be great for a warm winter escape. Cities like Seville and Granada celebrate the holiday season with vibrant decorations and traditional events.

• Tenerife: With highs around 21°C (70°F), it’s perfect for beach days or exploring Teide National Park.
• Gran Canaria: Experience diverse climates and landscapes, from sandy shores to rugged mountains.
• Lanzarote: Visit Timanfaya National Park to see lunar-like terrain with temperatures about 19°C (66°F).
• Seville: Discover the Gothic Seville Cathedral as the city lights up for Christmas, with temperatures around 15°C (59°F).
• Granada: Tour the Alhambra palace against a backdrop of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada; expect 12°C (54°F).
• Cordoba: Walk through the historic streets with fewer tourists, enjoying mild 14°C (57°F) weather.
• Valencia: Stroll through the Turia Gardens and visit the City of Arts and Sciences; the weather hovers around 16°C (61°F).
• Barcelona: Explore Gaudí’s architecture and festive markets with daytime highs near 14°C (57°F).
• San Sebastián: Savor Basque cuisine and explore the charming Old Town, often around 11°C (52°F).
• Bilbao: Enjoy the Guggenheim Museum with averages of 11°C (52°F), with occasional rain.
• Oviedo: Experience traditional Asturian culture and architecture; typical temperatures are 10°C (50°F).
• Madrid: The capital city buzzes with holiday energy under crisp clear skies, around 10°C (50°F).

What to Do in Spain in December

In December, Spain offers a mix of traditional festivities and mild winter weather. You can partake in unique holiday celebrations and enjoy outdoor activities without the extreme cold found in many other European countries. On the other hand, you can also find some excellent ski conditions this month.

• Visit Christmas Markets: You’ll find Christmas markets bustling with holiday cheer, perfect for finding gifts and savoring local treats.
• Attend La Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve): Join the locals in eating 12 grapes at midnight for good luck — a Spanish New Year tradition.
• Go Skiing or Snowboarding: Head to the Sierra Nevada for ski season — it’s a great spot with plenty of winter sports options.
• Explore Museums: Take advantage of shorter queues and spend more time with the masterpieces in Spain’s world-class museums.
• Enjoy Indoor Flamenco Shows: Feel the passion of flamenco with a cozy indoor performance, a perfect escape from the chilly evenings.
• Relax in Thermal Baths: Soak in the warm waters of thermal baths found in several cities, a blissful way to unwind.
• Hike in National Parks: Milder temperatures make for ideal hiking conditions in Spain’s beautiful national parks.
• Tour the Alhambra: Explore this iconic palace complex without the summer crowds; you’ll appreciate its history and architecture in peace.
• Sample Seasonal Cuisine: Warm up with hearty dishes, like cocido or fabada, which are particularly satisfying in cooler weather.

Each activity provides a chance to immerse yourself in Spain’s culture or natural beauty during the winter season. With so many options, your December trip to Spain can be as diverse and fun as you make it!

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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Spain Weather in December: Your All-in-One Guide to Festive Feels and Winter Wonders

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Planning a trip to Spain in December and wondering what the weather will be like? You’re in the right place!

Spain weather in December isn’t just chilly nights and warm coats. Wondering how Barcelona’s coast differs from Madrid’s heart in December? From practical packing tips to regional weather breakdowns and highlights of what to see and do in Spain in December, this guide has you covered. 

Dive in and get the full scoop on Spain’s diverse December climate so that you can plean your perfect winter trip.

Table of Contents

Spain Weather in December: Quick Answer

• Temperature Range: Typically varies between 5°C in inland areas to 18°C in the southern regions.
• General Climate: A mix of mild coastal conditions, colder inland temperatures, and snowy mountainous regions.
• Rainfall: Most frequent in the Atlantic Coastal regions; occasional in the Mediterranean coast and southern areas.
• What to Pack: Layered clothing with warmer gear for inland and mountain zones; lighter layers with a jacket for coastal and southern regions.
• Top Activity: Skiing in the mountainous regions; coastal walks and indoor attractions elsewhere.

Overview of Spain Weather in December

If you’re planning on visiting Spain in December, you should be prepared for a chilly climate. That said, the weather in Spain during December can vary depending on the region you’re visiting. While some regions experience mild temperatures, others can be quite cold.

The average temperature in Spain during December ranges from lows of -3°C (26°F) in Sallent de Gállego in the Spanish Pyrenees to highs of 22°C (71°F) in Gran Tarajal in the Canary Islands. 

The north of Spain also tends to see more rainfall than the south. This means that if you’re planning on visiting the northern regions during December, you should be prepared for wet weather. On the other hand, the southern regions tend to be drier, with less rainfall.

If you’re planning on visiting Madrid, the capital city of Spain, you should be prepared for chilly temperatures. The average temperature in Madrid during December ranges from highs around 10°C (50°F)  to lows of 3°C(high 30s Fahrenheit).

Overall, the weather in Spain during December can be unpredictable, so it’s best to pack for all possibilities. Make sure to bring warm clothing, including a coat, hat, and gloves, especially if you’re planning on visiting the northern regions of Spain. 

Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check the weather forecast before you travel to Spain to make sure you’re prepared for any weather conditions that may arise.

Spain Weather in December: Temperature Averages & Rainfall

The temperatures in Spain in December can vary greatly depending on the region you’re visiting. Here’s a breakdown of the average temperature ranges across some of Spain’s popular cities:

• Madrid: Highs of 9°C (48°F) and lows of 2°C (36°F)
• Barcelona: Highs of 14°C (57°F) and lows of 7°C (45°F)
• Seville: Highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F)
• Malaga: Highs of 17°C (63°F) and lows of 9°C (48°F)
• Valencia: Highs of 15°C (59°F) and lows of 6°C (43°F)

As you can see, temperatures in Spain during December are generally on the cooler side. However, some regions, such as Andalucia, can experience milder temperatures and more sunshine. Be sure to pack accordingly, with warm layers and a waterproof jacket just in case.

It’s also worth noting that while December is generally a dry month in Spain, some regions can experience rain or even snow. The northern regions of Spain, such as Galicia and the Basque Country, are more likely to experience precipitation during this time of year while the southern and eastern parts of the country are generally sunnier and drier.

Spain Weather in December: Regional Differences

When it comes to December weather in Spain, there are several regional differences to keep in mind. While some areas of the country may be mild and sunny, others can be quite chilly and wet. Here’s what you can expect in some of the most popular regions.

Weather in Barcelona 

Barcelona is located in the northeast of Spain and enjoys a relatively mild climate in December. You can expect average temperatures of around 12°C (54°F) during the day and 6°C (43°F) at night. While there may be some rain, Barcelona typically sees around six hours of sunshine per day.

Weather in Madrid

Madrid, located in the center of Spain, can get quite chilly in December. Highs range from the high 30s to the low 50s (Fahrenheit), and lows can drop below freezing. Snow is not uncommon in Madrid during December, so be sure to pack warm clothes.

Weather in Andalucia

Andalucia , located in the south of Spain, tends to be milder than other regions in December. You can expect average temperatures of around 17°C (63°F) during the day and 7°C (45°F) at night. While there may be some rain, Andalucia typically sees around five hours of sunshine per day.

Weather in Valencia

Valencia, located on the east coast of Spain, enjoys a mild climate in December. You can expect average temperatures of around 17°C (63°F) during the day and 7°C (45°F) at night. While there may be some rain, Valencia typically sees around six hours of sunshine per day.

Weather in Galicia

Galicia, located in the northwest of Spain, is one of the coldest regions in the country during December. You can expect average temperatures of around 9°C (48°F) during the day and 5°C (41°F) at night. There may be some rain, and Galicia typically sees around four hours of sunshine per day.

Weather in Asturias

Asturias, located in the north of Spain, can be quite chilly in December. You can expect average temperatures of around 10°C (50°F) during the day and 6°C (43°F) at night. While there may be some rain, Asturias typically sees around four hours of sunshine per day.

Weather in Canary Islands

The Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa, enjoy a mild climate year-round. In December, you can expect average temperatures of around 22°C (71°F) during the day and 15°C (58°F) at night. While there may be some rain, the Canary Islands typically see around six hours of sunshine per day.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Spain? 

Spain in December is particularly well-suited for travelers who appreciate cultural experiences, as they can immerse themselves in traditional Spanish holiday celebrations. Those looking to dodge the peak-season crowds will also find it advantageous. Winter sports enthusiasts eyeing the slopes will find December in the mountainous regions of Spain to be perfect. 

However, if you’re the beach-loving, sun-chasing kind of traveler, you might want to consider a different time of year or stick to the southern coasts where it’s milder.

Spain in December offers a unique charm that summer tourists often miss. The festive season is in full swing, and cities from Barcelona to Seville light up with holiday decorations, markets, and celebrations. 

For those who prefer a quieter travel experience, December usually sees fewer tourists, making it an ideal time to explore popular attractions without the usual crowds. Additionally, the milder temperatures of the coastal and southern regions can be a refreshing change from the harsh winters of northern Europe or North America. 

And for winter sports enthusiasts, the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada offer excellent skiing opportunities.

However, the weather can be a mixed bag. While coastal areas remain relatively mild, the inland regions can get quite cold, especially at night. Snow in major cities like Madrid is rare but not unheard of, and the days are notably shorter with sunset occurring early. 

Some attractions or accommodations may have reduced hours or might even be closed during the winter months. Travelers looking for the vibrant beach scenes Spain is often associated with might be disappointed as beach towns can be quieter, and the sea too cold for a swim.

Personally, I really enjoy visiting Spain in December as I generally prefer traveling in the low season. It’s quieter, it’s easier to find good accommodation deals, and I get to enjoy a more peaceful visit. Plus, Spain really knows how to celebrate the festive season! If you are looking for milder weather in December, I highly recommend visiting Andalucia during this month. Cities like Seville, Cadiz , Granada, and Malaga are great winter destinations where you can still enjoy warm days and plenty of sunshine.

Winter Activities and Attractions in December in Spain

On a trip to Spain in December, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of winter activities and attractions to enjoy. From skiing in the Sierra Nevada to exploring Christmas markets, there’s something for everyone.

Christmas Markets

Spain is known for its lively Christmas markets, which are a great place to find unique gifts and souvenirs. Some of the most popular markets include the Mercado de Navidad in Madrid, the Fira de Santa Llúcia in Barcelona, and the Feria de Muestras in Valencia. These markets offer everything from handmade crafts to traditional Spanish sweets.

Ski Resorts

If you’re a fan of winter sports, you’ll want to check out the ski resorts in the Sierra Nevada. This mountain range is located in southern Spain and offers excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities. 

The resort town of Pradollano is a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep you entertained after a day on the slopes.

Spain is home to some of the world’s most famous museums, and December is a great time to explore them. The Prado Museum in Madrid, for example, is home to works by artists such as Velázquez, Goya, and El Greco. The Picasso Museum in Barcelona is another must-visit, with over 4,000 works by the famous artist.

Architecture

Spain is known for its stunning architecture, and December is a great time to explore the country’s historic buildings. The Alhambra in Granada is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features beautiful Islamic architecture. The Sagrada Familia in Barcelona is another must-visit, with its unique blend of Gothic and Art Nouveau styles.

Beaches in Spain

While it may be too cold to swim in December, Spain’s beaches are still worth a visit. The Costa del Sol, for example, is known for its beautiful beaches and mild winter weather. If you’re in search of the sun, the Canary islands are also a great choice… and you’ll probably even have the beaches all to yourself! 

Cultural Events in December in Spain

A visit to Spain in December means that you’ll get a taste of how the Spanish celebrate the festive season. From Christmas celebrations to New Year’s Eve parties, there are plenty of cultural events to attend.

One of the most famous events in Spain in December is the celebration of Christmas . Spanish culture is deeply rooted in Christianity, and Christmas is a significant event. Many cities and towns have their own unique way of celebrating Christmas, but some of the most popular traditions include the nativity scenes, Christmas markets, and carol singing.

Malaga is particularly well-known for its festive decorations and light, so if you’re visiting the city, don’t miss their Christmas Lights !

On Christmas Day, many people attend mass, followed by a big family meal. In some parts of Spain, it is tradition to eat a big meal on Christmas Eve, known as Nochebuena. The meal often includes seafood, such as prawns or lobster, and a dessert called turrón, which is made from almonds and honey.

Another significant event in December is New Year’s Eve . Puerta del Sol in Madrid is the most famous place to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Spain. Thousands of people gather in the square to watch the clock strike midnight and eat 12 grapes, one for each chime of the clock. This tradition is said to bring good luck for the coming year.

Finally, December 28th is the Día de los Santos Inocentes , which is similar to April Fool’s Day. It is a day of practical jokes and hoaxes, and many people play tricks on their friends and family.

December is a great time to experience Spanish culture and attend some of the unique events that take place during this month. Whether you are celebrating Christmas, New Year’s Eve, or just enjoying the festive atmosphere, there is something for everyone in Spain in December.

Spain in December: Travel Tips

Here are some travel tips to help you prepare for your trip to Spain in December.

• Spanish winter can be unpredictable. Wear layers so you can easily adjust to the varying temperatures, especially if you’re moving between coastal, inland, and mountainous areas in one trip.
• Check out local event calendars . December is filled with festive events, from Christmas markets to special parades. Ensure you know local schedules to make the most of your visit.
• While Spain’s coastal regions might be milder, inland can be chilly, and it might rain. Waterproof shoes or boots are a must , especially if you’re planning to walk a lot.
• Remember, daylight is limited in December in Spain. Plan outdoor activities for earlier in the day and utilize the evening for indoor attractions, dining, or events.
• If using public transport, check schedules in advance. Services might run on reduced hours , especially around Christmas and New Year’s.
• Not all accommodations, especially older or budget ones, have central heating so be sure to check in advance.
• If heading to the beach regions, remember that while it may be milder, it won’t be beach weather in the traditional sense . Beach towns will be quieter, but it can be an excellent time for coastal walks or enjoying seaside towns without the crowds.
• December is considered low season in Spain, which means you may be able to find some good deals on accommodation and flights. However, keep in mind that prices may be higher around Christmas and New Year’s Eve .

Spain in December: Frequently Asked Questions

What is the weather like in spain during december.

Spain’s weather in December varies depending on the region, but in general, it is cooler than most other months. Spain is generally warmer than other European countries, and Andalucia is the warmest region during winter. However, the northern regions such as Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country can be rainy and chilly.

What are the average temperatures in Spain in December?

The average temperature in Spain in December is around 12°C (54°F), but it can range from 8°C (46°F) to 16°C (61°F) depending on the region. Andalucia, the Canary Islands, and the Balearic Islands tend to be warmer, while the northern regions are cooler.

Is December a good time to visit Spain?

December is a good time to visit Spain if you want to avoid the crowds and enjoy a more authentic experience. The weather may be cooler, but there are still plenty of things to see and do. Plus, many cities and towns are decorated for Christmas, which adds to the festive atmosphere.

Which parts of Spain are the warmest in December?

Andalucia is the warmest region in Spain during December, with daytime temperatures averaging around 16°C (61°F). The Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands are also warm, with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). Barcelona and Valencia are also relatively mild, with temperatures around 12°C (54°F).

What should I pack for a trip to Spain in December?

When visiting Spain in December, it is important to pack warm clothing, especially if you plan to visit the northern regions. Bring a warm jacket, a sweater, and comfortable shoes. If you’re visiting Andalucia, the Canary Islands, or the Balearic Islands, you may want to pack lighter clothing as the weather is milder.

Are there any special events or festivals in Spain during December?

Yes, there are several special events and festivals in Spain during December. Christmas is a major holiday in Spain, and many cities and towns have elaborate nativity scenes and Christmas markets. New Year’s Eve is also celebrated with fireworks and parties. The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated on December 8th, and the Day of the Holy Innocents is celebrated on December 28th. In Catalonia, the Feast of St. Stephen is celebrated on December 26th, and in Andalucia, the Festival of the Three Kings is celebrated on January 6th.

Recommended Spain Travel Resources

Travelling to/around Spain and need help planning your dream trip? Here are my favorite travel resources.

• I usually use Booking.com to look for hotels or apartment rentals. It’s easy to use, with lots of choices… and you can unlock more discounts with their Genius loyalty programme!
• To research transportation options around Spain, I use Omio which lets me compare different modes of transportation and prices in one place.
• For the ultimate freedom, rent a car in Spain. Check prices on DiscoverCars to find the best deals (you’ll be surprised at how affordable it is!).
• For activities and tours, Get Your Guide is my trusted platform. Viator also has a big catalog of activities!
• I love free walking tours and usually use Guruwalk to find and book tours I like.
• An easy way to stay connected while travelling is to use an eSim. Airalo offers various eSim choices so that you’re already connected the moment you arrive in Spain!
• Say goodbye to carrying loads of cash or paying huge transaction fees when using a card in a foreign country! Wise is my borderless banking service of choice and I’ve used their debit card everywhere in Spain without any issues.
• I never travel without SafetyWing travel insurance in case of emergencies or unexpected incidents. Get an obligation-free quote here.

For more on Spain travel planning

• Spain Weather in November: What to Know Before You Go
• Spain Weather in October: What to Expect During Your Trip
• Spain Weather in September: What You Need to Know to Plan the Perfect Trip
• Spain Weather in August: What to Expect, Where to Go, What to Do
• Spain Weather in July: What to Expect During Your Summer Vacation
• Spain Weather in June: What to Expect, Best Places to Visit, and More

Liza’s love affair with Spain began when she started taking Spanish language classes. Since then, she regularly travels to Spain to explore new places and discover new things to love about this gorgeous country. This travel blog is her way of sharing her love of Spain and helping you plan your dream Spanish holiday!

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Spain Weather in December 2024: Travel Tips for First-Timers

Spain's weather is cold to mild in December with relatively damp conditions. When visiting Spain in December, we suggest visiting Madrid, Barcelona, Malaga and Valencia. Read on to find out more about travel and weather, including temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and tips for December.

Content Preview

• 1. Weather Overview
• 2. Best Places to Visit
• 3. Crowds and Costs
• 4. What to Wear

Spain Weather in December: Overview

• Temperature range : 8–15°C (46–59°F)
• Rainfall : 6 cm (2 inches)
• Rainy days : 7
• Sunshine hours/day : 5
• Humidity : around 73% (damp throughout the country)

Spain's weather is cool to mild on average, with colder weather in Madrid. Given that December is winter, there are possibilities of seeing lower temperatures too, as well as slightly warmer temperatures.

December does not see much sun in Spain, with an average of 5 hours per day. This is slightly higher in the south of the country when compared to the north. Rainfall is low though, around 6 cm (2 inches) throughout the month of December.

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December Climate Comparison (Averages) for Spain's Top Tourism Areas

The best places to visit in spain in december.

December might not be the warmest time of the year to visit Spain, but it is still a great holiday destination for the winter. Particularly if you are living in northern or western Europe, or even north America, you will find that winter in Spain is milder.

For visitors in December, we recommend starting off your trip in Madrid, and then heading to Barcelona, and eventually Valencia and Malaga. Read on to find out more about what sights to see, and what to do in each of these destinations.

If you are looking for a tailor-made itinerary, our Spain experts can help put together your ideal trip to Spain. Taking into account how long you are going, what your requirements are, and what you want to see, we can ensure that your trip to Spain runs smoothly and is an excellent memory-making experience. Contact us to start planning your Spain trip .

1. Explore Madrid as a Starting Point for Your Travels to Spain

Madrid is usually the starting point for tourists coming into Spain, and there is no better way to be introduced to Spanish culture.

If you are interested, Madrid is a good place to take a walking tour through the historical sights and key attractions to see in the city. For more information about this, see our piece about visiting Spain in January . If you want to sample Spanish cuisine, read our piece about visiting Spain in March  for more information about traditional Spanish tapas.

For more active travelers, there are hikes to do near Madrid. You can learn more about this in our piece about visiting Spain in November .

2. Take in the Beautiful Façades at the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona

One of the most popular tourist destinations in the entire world can be found in Barcelona: the Sagrada Familia. Construction of this church started 1882, and remains ongoing. Interruptions include the Spanish Civil War, a lack of money, but also the more recent COVID-19 pandemic. Estimates of when the church might be finished are ever-changing, but currently stand at around 2040.

Designed by Gaudí, the famous architect of the church himself, is buried in an underground level of the Sagrada Familia after he passed away due to being hit by a tram. You will be able to visit the underground levels.

Although work has not finished, there are beautiful grand façades to see and the church is still an impressive sight not to be missed while you are in Barcelona. You will be able to see Gaudí's inspiration from nature.

3. Explore the Roman Theatre of Malaga

Malaga, located in the autonomous community of Andalusia, is the sixth biggest city in Spain. Located in the south of the country along the coast, it is a popular summer destination, but also has a lot to offer in the winter, including mild weather with a chance of a higher daytime temperature.

The city was under Carthaginian rule, after which the Romans took over. You'll be able to visit the Roman Theater, parts of which are in ruin today, but most of the structure is still standing. If you are interested in Spain's Roman past, we recommend getting a tour guide to guide you through and give you more background.

Malaga is also home to a beautiful cathedral, the Catedral de la Encarnacion de Malaga, and a fortress known as Alcazba. The fortress there is arguably one of the most beautiful ones in Spain, and we highly recommend a visit.

4. Take a Food Tour of Valencia

Valencia is a buzzing, exciting city, and there is so much to see and do. We recommend getting a food tour through the city as a way of exploring, but also sampling, some of the local foods! What better way to understand a new culture. For adults there are also lots of wine tours, as Spain is known for its wines world-wide.

One of our Spain experts would love to arrange a food tour in Valencia for you, just contact us here .

Walk it all off as you see the sights of the city, including the Valencia Cathedral, and the Church of San Nicolás de Bari and San Pedro Mártir, sometimes referred to as the Valencia Sistine Chapel because of its beautiful decorations and fresco paintings.

The church has been recently renovated, but the original building from 1242 still stands. If you are interested in the stories relating to the life of Saint Nicolás de Bari and Saint Pedro Mártir depicted in the frescos, we recommend getting a guided tour at the church.

Crowds and Costs for Traveling in December

December is generally low season in Spain, with the exception of the Christmas break when there are more tourists traveling for the festive season.

If you want to visit Spain for Christmas, we recommend booking well ahead to avoid even higher prices for accommodation and transportation. Dates that might see some closures in this period are December 24, December 25, and December 26. You will also likely see festive decorations throughout Spain if you are traveling during Christmas, making for a wonderful sight.

There are a few other dates to bear in mind for festivals in Spain. On December 6, every year, Spain also celebrates Constitution Day, during which you might also find closures in smaller cities, particularly independent restaurants and shops. If you have planned to visit somewhere in particular we recommend checking ahead.

The same goes for December 8 and 9, when the Feast of the Immaculate Conception is celebrated throughout Spain.

What to Wear in December

December is cold to mild in Spain, depending on where you are traveling, and depending on the day. We recommend bringing plenty of layers to ensure that you don't get cold, particularly if you are spending lots of time outdoors, or if you'd like to walk around outside in the evenings.

You will need to bring a winter coat, particularly for Madrid, and we also recommend a scarf and hat just in case.

Top Spain Tours for December

While you might want to reach out to us to put together your ideal itinerary  for your trip to Spain, we do also have some of our most popular itineraries listed here, all of which are suitable for the month of December:

• 7-Day Spain Essence Tour
• 12-Day Morocco and Spain Highlights Tour
• 7-Day Spain Food Tour around San Sebastián
• 7-Day Madrid and Barcelona Tour for Families

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Winter sun in Spain: 10 warmest places to visit in Spain in winter

Spain is a popular holiday destination for people from all over the world and it is constantly among the most visited countries in the world because it has a multitude of attractions and beautiful cities, great food, incredible beaches, friendly people and good weather. 

Is winter a good time to visit Spain?

Best places to visit in spain for winter sun , 2. valencia, 3. alicante, 6. benidorm, the canary islands - the warmest place to visit in spain in winter, 7. tenerife, 8. gran canaria, 9. fuerteventura, 10. lanzarote.

Most people who come to Spain for city breaks to visit Barcelona or Madrid usually come between the spring and autumn months, when the weather is great for walking outside and visiting places. 

Holidaymakers who come to Spain for beach holidays usually come in summer, when the  Spanish costas, meaning Spain's coasts, get really crowded with locals and international tourists as well.

But how about winter? Is Spain a good destination to catch some winter sun?

The honest answer is that it depends on where you're planning to go and what your expectations are.

Compared to its European neighbors, peninsular Spain has mild winters, especially in the south, meaning Andalucia and along the coasts like in the regions of Valencia, Murcia, and Almeria. 

But the warmest places to visit in winter in Spain are definitely the islands, especially the Canary Islands, which are also our top recommendation when it comes to hot places to visit in winter in Europe .

With a bit of luck, you can spend a sunny and warm holiday in Spain even in December, January or February, when the rest of Europe is dealing with cold weather and sometimes snow.

We'll first show you the warmest places in continental Spain during winter and at the end, you can find our recommendations for the absolute hottest winter destinations in Spain, which are the 4 largest of the Canary Islands.

Malaga is a beautiful and vibrant city on Spain's Costa del Sol. 

Costa del Sol is an extremely popular tourist destination during the summer months, but less so during winter. Although you can't expect proper summer temperatures in winter, you can expect the weather to resemble springtime, with mild temperatures and some sunny days mixed with rainy days. 

If you're lucky and you visit Malaga in December you might even be able to catch some sun on the beach, but it's also possible to experience a few days of continuous rain. In winter in Malaga, you can usually expect maximum temperatures during the day to range between 11°C and 22°C, which is a big difference. 

Still, Malaga is a nice place to visit in Spain even in winter, if you want to escape the tourist crowds and simply enjoy Spain's tapas bars and visit museums and palaces. 

Malaga weather in winter

• Average high temperature: 17°C (62.6°F) 
• Average low temperature: 8°C (46.4°F)
• Average rainy days per month: 6
• Average daily sunshine hours: 6

Valencia is one of our favorite cities in Spain.

It's a big city, it has amazing paella and tasty Sangria, the people are friendly, the city looks green compared to other Spanish cities and you also have easy access to a huge beach. 

Valencia is also a good base if you want to explore several other places in the Valencian community like Parc Natural de l'Albufera, Gandia, Denia, Javea, or Castellon de la Plana. 

Valencia weather in winter

• Average high temperature: 17°C (62.6°F)
• Average low temperature: 7.8°C (46.04°F)
• Average rainy days per month: 4
• Average daily sunshine hours: 5.5

Also part of the Valencian Community, Alicante is located a bit further south from Valencia and it's yet another lovely city to visit in winter. Alicante has a beautiful urban beach Playa del Postiguet where you can take walks even on winter days, especially if it's sunny.

You can also climb up to Santa Barbara Castle and admire the view from up top and in the afternoon you can try several of the nice bars and restaurants in town.

Alicante is well connected with several other towns on the coast and you can use the long-distance Alicante Tram to travel to places like Villajoyosa, Playa San Juan, or the popular resort Benidorm.

Alicante weather in winter

• Average high temperature: 17.5°C (63.5°F)
• Average low temperature: 7°C (44.6°F)
• Average rainy days per month: 3.5

Murcia is located a little further south than Alicante and it is less touristy than Valencia, Malaga, or Alicante. The winter weather in Murcia is mild, with fewer rainy days than Malaga but very similar temperatures.

Murcia is very quiet and relaxed during the winter months, as it's not a coastal town and it gets very few visitors during the low season. However, Murcia can be a good place to stay during winter for remote workers who are just looking for a city with mild temperatures, good internet and a chilled atmosphere. From Murcia, you can easily visit other places like Cartagena, Orihuela or Torrevieja.

Murcia weather in winter

• Average low temperature: 5.5°C (41.9°F)

Located in the Andalusia region, Almeria is not as popular from a tourist perspective as Sevilla, Cordoba, Granada, or Malaga. But Almeria still has a few interesting places to visit like the Alcazaba (medieval fortress) or the cathedral, which can easily be seen during the winter months, when Almeria is among the best places to visit in Spain for some winter sun.

Almeria is located on the coast within the Gulf of Almeria and it enjoys lovely warm winter days, with much less rain than most of the other cities in continental Spain. Except for the Canary Islands, Almeria might be one of the warmest places to visit in Spain in winter, with a bit of luck, since rainy days can occur here as well.

Almeria weather in winter

• Average low temperature: 9°C (48.2°F)
• Average rainy days per month: 3
• Average daily sunshine hours: 6.2

Benidorm is one of the most well-known tourist destinations in Spain, especially during the summer months when the hotels get full, the beaches get crowded and the bars get noisy. 

Did you know that Benidorm is the city with the most skyscrapers in Spain? The city is quite atypical for Spain and although winter is not considered high-season here, there are still tourists who visit especially during the Christmas holidays and New Year's Eve. 

If it's sunny and warm you can still walk on the beach, grab a coffee at one of the cafes or bars on the promenade or visit other places along the coastline like Altea or Calp.

Benidorm weather in winter

• Average low temperature: 7.7°C (45.86°F)

All of the previous destinations presented in this article were located in peninsular Spain, but the Canary Islands archipelago is the Spanish region with the best winter weather and also the hottest place to visit in Europe in winter.

There are 8 Canary Islands, all similar and at the same time different from each other, but for the winter months, we can recommend you to visit one of these 4, which are the most popular: Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote or Fuerteventura.

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and also the island that is most popular and gets the most visitors annually.

If you want to visit Tenerife during the season, you should stay in the south of the island in places like Playa de Las Americas , Los Cristianos , or Costa Adeje . Remember that winter is considered the high season in Tenerife, as the Canary Islands are the best destination for winter sun in Spain and Europe as well.

Tenerife South weather in winter

• Average high temperature: 22.1°C (71.78°F)
• Average low temperature: 15.8°C (60.44°F)
• Average rainy days per month: 2
• Average daily sunshine hours: 6.5

Check out the detailed articles about the winter weather in Tenerife

• Tenerife weather in December
• Tenerife weather in January
• Tenerife weather in February

Gran Canaria is yet another popular choice when it comes to warm beach holidays in Spain during the winter season, from December and until March. 

For the best weather possible, we recommend you to stay in resorts located in the south like Maspalomas , Playa del Ingles , Puerto Rico , or Meloneras. Las Palmas , the island's capital, is also a popular destination in winter, especially for remote workers , but the weather is not quite as warm as in the south of Gran Canaria.

Gran Canaria weather in winter

• Average high temperature: 21.4°C (70.52°F)
• Average low temperature: 15.3°C (59.54°F)

Check out the detailed articles about the winter weather in Gran Canaria

• Gran Canaria weather in December
• Gran Canaria weather in January
• Gran Canaria weather in February

Fuerteventura is the Canary Islands where you should go if you're looking for a relaxed and chilled atmosphere. With sunny and warm weather even during the winter season, Fuerteventura is a good place to be if you want to escape the harsh winters in continental Europe or the UK. 

All of the island's main resorts are good options for winter holidays: Corralejo, Caleta de Fuste, Costa Calma, or Morro Jable. 

Fuerteventura weather in winter

• Average high temperature: 21.2°C (70.16°F)
• Average low temperature: 15°C (59°F)
• Average rainy days per month: 2.5

Check out the detailed articles about the winter weather in Fuerteventura

• Fuerteventura weather in December
• Fuerteventura weather in January
• Fuerteventura weather in February

• Lanzarote is the smallest of the 4 Canary Islands mentioned here, but it's also a good option for sunny winter breaks in Spain.

If you want to visit Lanzarote in winter we would recommend you to stay in Playa Blanca, as it tends to be a bit warmer because it's less windy than the other resorts. Puerto del Carmen is also a good option since it's the largest and busiest resort and Costa Teguise can be windier, which makes it a favorite among visitors looking to practice water sports. 

Lanzarote weather in winter

• Average low temperature: 14.5°C (58.1°F)
• Average rainy days per month: 3.2
• Average daily sunshine hours: 6.7

Check out the detailed articles about the winter weather in Lanzarote

• Lanzarote weather in December
• Lanzarote weather in January
• Lanzarote weather in February

How hot are the Canary Islands in winter? Can you sunbathe?

Yes, you can definitely sunbathe and even swim in the Canaries even in winter.

When the sun is out the "real feel" temperature will be higher than what you would expect by looking at the thermometer. This is because of the UV index, so you should still use a high SPF sun cream even in winter. 

The Canary Islands are a good destination for a warm winter holiday in Spain but don't expect tropical weather with overly high temperatures or high humidity, because the climate in the Canaries is sub-tropical, which means that the weather is just right all year round.

Planning a winter holiday to Spain and you're thinking to visit one of the Canary Islands?

Below you can check out some articles to help you decide where to go:

• Warmest Canary Island in winter
• Canary Islands weather in December
• Canary Islands weather in January
• Canary Islands weather in February
• Which Canary Island to visit
• Where to stay in the Canary Islands

10 Warmest Places in Europe in Winter - December, January & February

Largest Canary Island - Facts about Spain's Canary Islands archipelago

Where To Stay in Tenerife - 10 Best Areas & Hotels 2024/2025

10 Best Things To Do in Playa de las Americas, Tenerife

13 Best Things To Do in Los Cristianos, Tenerife - 2024 Guide

17 Best things to do in Costa Adeje 2024 - Top Attractions

Wealth of Geeks

Tiny Towns, Big Discoveries: 15 Must-Visit Small Cities in Europe

Posted: December 5, 2023 | Last updated: December 5, 2023

Thanks to social media, there’s no mystery to where everyone is traveling these days. Instagram and TikTok feeds are full of trips to Italy, Switzerland, and Spain as travelers continue to burn off the remaining hints of cabin fever left over from the pandemic lockdowns. 

Even when you’re on vacation, seemingly large cities can make you feel claustrophobic as tourists pack the tiny streets of Rome and Paris. Thankfully, Europe is full of tiny cities ripe for discovery. 

The original poster was planning a family gap year and looking to travel around the world. Part of their criteria was to stay for three months in Europe over the fall, and many replies suggested Sevilla in Spain. One commenter claimed the city would fit all of the poster’s criteria and be gorgeous in the fall.

2. Ljubljana

The capital city of Slovenia gets a sound endorsement from one respondent. They suggest that Ljubljana ticks every box, as it’s beautiful, green, walkable, and has cute bars and restaurants. The commenter also points out that the city is convenient for trips to Italy, Croatia, or Austria.’

3. Chiang Mai

When discussing Thailand, thoughts will inevitably turn to Bangkok or Phuket, but our original poster looks for overlooked alternatives. One reply suggests the city of Chiang Mai, which they describe as beautiful and affordable.

While Amsterdam is considered to be a must-see (and rightly so), there is so much more to the Netherlands. One respondent recommends the small city of Arnhem and suggests seeing the open air museum which shows how Dutch people lived a century ago. 

While there may be some debate about whether some of these suggestions qualify as “tiny cities,” they are not the most apparent locations within their respective countries. That’s the case with Oaxaca, which many feel offers an insight into the authentic Mexico. One forum member recommends all the sights, along with Casa Oaxaca, which they identify as one of their favorite restaurants in the world.

While there are many must see destinations in Australia, Hobart in Tasmania offers something different. The hustle and bustle of Sydney is absent, and it’s recommended on this thread as a hub for Tasmania, which contains some of the most stunning wilderness areas in the world, and fantastic wildlife .

There are recommendations for the Belgian city of Brugge on this thread, while others side with the smaller location of Ghent. The latter is recommended as having a relaxed vibe. I would also add that Ghent can be less expensive than Brugge, which is much busier with tourists.

New Zealand is an incredible country with the most diverse natural landscapes. The small city of Dunedin is recommended as a unique and remote experience, although the poster acknowledges that there may be some issues with public transport.

9. Edinburgh

Those who visit the United Kingdom are more likely to seek out the busy  tourist attractions in London. For a more relaxed experience, the Scottish capital of Edinburgh receives many votes on the forum. 

10. Hakodate

Japan is another great tourist location, where many will concentrate on one or two popular destinations. Along with our original poster, we are looking for something less ordinary, with one person noting that Hakodate is an overlooked gem for international visitors.

This small Italian city is a must for lovers of fast cars. The Enzo Ferrari Museum forms part of the historic Motor Valley, and one individual also touts Modena as having lots of lovely restaurants in addition to being a charming old city.

As the fall fades away, the Christmas markets begin to appear, and these are a big attraction around Europe. Among many festive recommendations, Poland’s Krakow gets a big thumbs up, with one person also listing exceptional public transit.

More than one location in South Korea is mentioned, but Busan is the most appealing. As one forum member puts it, Busan has easy access to nature, great food, culture, and the people there are also really friendly. Sounds perfect!

While this German location may be verging into big city territory, Munich doesn’t feel like a busy destination. That’s the view of one respondent who said that they liked its vibe and it didn’t seem like a massive city. 

15. Funchal

While it’s the biggest location on its island, Funchal squeezes in because Madeira is considered to be a stunning, unspoiled tourist destination. One commenter sums it up better than I can by claiming that Funchal has a great climate, great food, nice people, and is all around a beautiful place. 

Source:  (Reddit).

More From Wealth of Geeks - Every National Park in The United States and Where To Find Them

The United States has enjoyed the National Park Service for 150 years. From rugged, glacier-topped landscapes to warm, beachy paradises, our national parks offer diverse land to explore. While there are many designations such as National Monument, National Seashore, and more, sixty-three sites are designated as a National Park.

Every National Park in the United States and Where To Find Them

More From Wealth of Geeks - The Best Steakhouses in NYC: 10 Places To Get a Great Steak

New York has many delicious foods considered specialty items within the City That Never Sleeps. In addition to hot dogs, pizza, and bagels, the city is also home to a slew of mouth-watering steakhouses—many of which happen to be some of the oldest chop houses in the nation.

More From Wealth of Geeks - 10 New Orleans Historic House Museums

House museums offer a fascinating glimpse into the past of any location. Unlike traditional museums, often housed in modern facilities with carefully curated exhibits, a house museum is like a frozen piece of time.  Learning about the history of the house and the occupants over the years feels a little more relatable than learning about dates and important events. It also makes you feel like you're walking through history.

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