is it good to visit spain in january

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Spain in January: 9 Travel Tips, Activities & Weather

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Not so many people visit Spain in January, and I understand why. Days are shorter, the temperature is lower, and the city seems to have less life. But there is something not everybody knows.

The truth is that even though January seems to have shitty weather, the sun does come out! It’s freezing (at least in Madrid), but you can perfectly walk for some minutes under clear skies.

The good thing about spending January in Spain is that it is less rainy than in November and December. These conditions will vary in every city, but it’s the case in Madrid and Barcelona.

In this article, you will get nine travel tips, activities, and the weather for your visit to Spain during January.

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

Travel tips

1. Bring winter coats during your trip!

January is one or two degrees colder than December, so bring your winter coats. The exception to this rule are cities in the southern tip of the country, such as Malaga, Cadiz, or Almeria. Still, checking weather sites to confirm the exact temperatures before your trip is best. 

For example, the beautiful city of Granada in Andalusia is one of the warmest places in spring, summer, and even autumn. But in January you will gace temperatures between 12 and 2 degrees. Still, the sun will come out, and it is a good month to avoid crowds of tourists. 

2. January is great for price deals!

January is one of the lowest seasons for tourism, and prices are usually lower. Take your time to look for good deals around the country.

I recommend Madrid in January, the city is less full than in December, and if you are lucky, you get many days of sun to enjoy during the winter. 

3. Book your ski holidays ahead of time!

Spain is a famous ski destination for Spanish people. Some people enjoy the Alps, others the French Pyrenees, but the Spanish love their own mountains. 

And everything ends up fully booked every season. So, if you want to go skiing in Spain, you must decide and book at least 2 months in advance. I will specify where to go skiing in the next section!

4. Celebrate New Year’s Eve!

This activity fits for December and January, but let’s highlight it during the year’s first month. Spain has different traditions during New Year’s Eve that you must try out when celebrating in the country. 

One of them is partying until dawn on the 1 of January and getting churros con chocolate as breakfast. There are plenty of great parties in Madrid and Barcelona, you just have to get your tickets in time!

More on New Year’s traditions in Spain:

• 7 New Year Traditions in Spain for Powerful Beginnings
• 12 “Lucky” Grapes: A Curious Spanish Tradition on New Year’s
• Why is Spain The Perfect Place to Celebrate New Years?
• 13 Delicious Foods My Spanish Family Eats on New Year

5. Celebrate Three King’s Day in January

Three Kings Day, or “Día de los Reyes Magos,” is one of the most important celebrations in Spain (even more than Christmas!). Kids wait expectantly for the day of the Three Kings, as it is the day when they receive their Christmas gifts.

Three Kings Day is celebrated everywhere in Spain, and it hosts a traditional parade and the delicious “Roscón de Reyes,” or King’s cake. 

The parade will change in each city; Madrid, for example, hosts a big parade that covers 2,5 km until Cibeles Fountain. The parade, also known as “Cabalgata de Reyes,” covers 4,7 km in Barcelona. Both include big, decorative floats in which the three Kings greet everyone waiting for them.

Learn more about Three Kings Day:

• Celebrate “Día de los Reyes Magos” for a Magical Time in Spain

6. Do some last-minute visits to the Christmas markets

Christmas markets start by the end of November and stay open until the first days of January. If you visit Spain during the early days of the year’s first month, you could go to some markets. 

Christmas markets in Madrid are magical! They offer great gastronomic experiences and cute gift stalls where you can find last-minute gifts. 

Take a look at our articles of Christmas markets and what to do in Spain in December:

• 11 Santa-approved Christmas Markets Worth Visiting in Spain

Spain in December: 10 Travel Tips, Activities & Weather

7. eat more churros con chocolate in madrid.

Always, in any season, in any month of the year, you have to eat  churros con chocolate  in San Ginés (Madrid). This classic churro store is open 24/7, so you can even get them during summer nights when the temperature has cooled. 

Get the classic pack of chocolate with 6 churros which are more than enough for one person.

8. Experience La Tamborrada in San Seabastián

La Tamborrada in San Sebastián is celebrated on January 20th in the city’s old town.

San Sebastián is one of the most beautiful cities in the Basque Country. The vibe is quaint, with a mix of French and Basque architecture; the city will charm you as soon as you step foot. 

La, Tamborrada celebrates San Sebastián’s homonymous saint patron, and it consists of a parade of drummers in Napoleonic uniforms. 

9. Visit all the museums possible

January is cold. No doubt about it. So take advantage of the weather and visit all the museums available! If you only come to Madrid, use the weather on your side and visit the internationally recognized Prado Museum, the Reina Sofia, the Thyssen-Bornemisza, and the Sorolla Museum.  

You could do the same in Barcelona and Sevilla, where there are excellent museums and palaces to explore during chilly moments. My favorite in Barcelona is the MOCO Museum; it opened a few years ago and has limited but impressive collections of modern art pieces. For example, it is home to one of Dali’s sculptures, ‘Woman Aflame.’ 

Here is a list of museums that you can visit:

• Seville Museums: 9 Must-Visit Palaces & Art Galleries
• The Best 13 + 1 Museums in Madrid: It’s Not All About Art!
• The Best 11 Museums in Barcelona: Its not all about Gaudí!

As mentioned, January is a month of great travel deals because people have just been on holiday, and tourism has declined. January is a great month to visit cities in Andalusia if you are traveling on a budget; cities like Granada, Cordoba, and Sevilla have non-scorching weather and still get a lot of sunlight. 

And, if you are a first-timer in Spain, you must visit Madrid and Barcelone.

Besides visiting the previous museums and all the traditional landmarks in Madrid, there is one thing you can’t miss during January: The Three Kings Parade. 

The Three Kings Parade , or ‘Cabalgata de los Reyes Magos,’ is a tradition that happens all over Spain. It is performed on January 5th, the eve of Three Kings Day.

The parade is a joyful experience that will make you feel like a child again; you can catch it from different streets in the capital, and after seeing it, you need to go for some  churros y chocolate.  My top recommendations are  San Ginés, La Antigua Churreria, and Valor.

On January 6th, you must go to the closest bakery and get yourself a  ‘Roscón de Reyes.’  A donut-shaped bread with glazed fruits and cream. 

✨ A unique experience in Madrid ✨

Nowadays, with climate change affecting the snowy season, you can only ski towards the end of January. Still, Madrid in January has a weather of 10-3 degrees , and it drops even more in the mountains!

Still, I recommend visiting the  Puerto de Navacerrada  to enjoy a snowy view. Once there, you can have hot cocoa and traditional Spanish food in restaurants like La Maya. 

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!
• 18 Best Landmarks in Madrid Totally Worth Visiting in 2023
• 11 Most Beautiful Towns Near Madrid worth Visiting!

2. Barcelona

Barcelona’s weather is just a few degrees warmer than Madrid, with 15 - 9 degrees . You must wear your winter coat and resort to churros and hot chocolate to keep you warm.

Like in Madrid, Barcelona hosts a pretty impressive  ‘Three Kings Parade.’  In Barcelona, the Three Wise Men come by boat and then start their parade until the   Font Màgica de Montjuïc  (a must-visit alongside the National Museum of Art of Catalonia).  

The parade takes place on January 5th and the celebration on the 6th.  

Another place you can visit in Barcelona during January is the FC Barcelona stadium, Camp Nou. There are fewer tourists, and you will have a place for yourself!

Suppose you want to immerse in the traditional Catalan folklore. In that case, you can attend the  Festa Major de Sant Antoni  from January 13th to 29th, with the parade Trees Tombs being the most iconic in the neighborhood. This  festa  celebrates Sant Antoni, the Saint patron of Animals. On  January 21st, the Trees Tombs  parade shows traditional customs and vintage carriages. 

😋  Want traditional food?  Taste the calçots!! These are onions cooked on the grill and soaked in  salsa .

🇦🇩 Want a day trip?  Just 2 hours away by car, you can visit the country of Andorra, hidden away in the beautiful snowy Pyrenees. 

Finally, go shopping! January has plenty of deals to choose from before the season changes

Cordoba is a stunning southern city, perfect for visiting in January. The most famous months for Cordoba are April, May, and June, so January will be a great opportunity if you are on a budget. 

Cordoba also hosts its own Three Kings Parade, but instead of the famous ‘roscón,’ you should try their traditional Pástel Cordobés , filled with squash jam.

While in Cordoba, you can’t miss the Mosque-Cathedral, the Alcazar of the Catholic Kings, the Roman Bridge, and the Viana Palace with the famous  patios cordobeses  and beautiful open patios decorated with flowers. 

Two days are enough for Cordoba, and you can move on to the next charming city of Granada!

Granada is another beautiful southern city to visit in January, especially because of its numerous festivals and special dates. 

So, if you want to experience the folklore of Granada, visit the city during  ‘Toma Day.’  On January 2nd, people from Granada celebrate the day that the Catholic Kinsg retook the city from the Muslims. You will enjoy plenty of parades and traditional food!

Once again, in Granada, you can also experience the  Three Kings Parade,  and on the 17th, the day of  Saint Antony  (just like in Barcelona). This saint is venerated for the protection of animals; people create bonfires where they would cook the meat.

😋 Want traditional food?  Try the Cuchara de Carmela!

🏔️ Want snowy scenery?  Visit the Sierra Nevada, there is still not much snow in January to do some great skiing, but you can enjoy the gorgeous views from the mountain. 

Of course, you must see all the important landmarks and hot spots in Granada, such as the Alhambra, the lookout of San Nicolas, and the neighborhoods of Albaicin and Sacromonte. 

This might come as a surprise for some people, but Spain also has a city with plenty of hot springs to enjoy during the winter. You can find them in Ourense (Galicia). Galicia is another great place to visit in Spain in January; you can tour Santiago de Compostela, Vigo, and then cross to Ourense.        

If you don’t want to go to Iceland or Japan, you can take a plane, train, or car and visit the city of Ourense, located in the south of the province.  This city is famous for its seven circuits of thermal waters, which are mostly free.  

The hot springs are mainly known as “Termas de Ourense” and offer plenty of bodily benefits, such as detoxifying your skin. 

🚰  I will leave you a link to all the information:  Termas de Ourense  

This article has suggested activities in cities in different regions of Spain. Granada and Cordoba are the only two that might have warmer days with the help of the sun, but you will still need to wear a winter coat.

If you are a first-timer, I would recommend Madrid, Barcelona, and the hot springs of Ourense as different activities to enjoy during the cold weather.

I have created a chart with the approximate temperature that you can experience in Spain if you visit in January.

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.

I think this article has already given you a complete trip guide of what to do in Spain in January. You have more than enough content to organize your next trip to Spain in winter.

My last few pieces of advice would be to always check the weather of each city you are visiting before traveling and enjoy every day of sun you get during your trip in January.

If you have any other ideas, let us know! We love reading you!

READ NEXT: Spain in December: 10 Travel Tips, Activities & Weather

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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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Marbella or Malaga: Which Spanish City to Visit?

The Ultimate 2, 3 or 4 Days in Barcelona Itinerary

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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Weather in Spain in January: A Guide to Spain’s Regions

By: Author Laura Bronner

Posted on Last updated: October 30, 2023

The weather in Spain in January of course depends on where in the country you plan to visit.

If you’re considering a winter trip to Spain in January, you’re in for a treat! Spain offers a diverse climate that varies from region to region, making it a fantastic destination year-round.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore what the weather is like in different parts of Spain during January, ensuring that you know exactly what to expect all around this beautiful country.

Whether you’re planning a city break, beach holiday, or outdoor adventure, this guide has got you covered.

A Quick Overview of January in Spain

Before delving into specific regions, let’s get a general sense of what you can expect throughout Spain in January. It’s important to note that Spain experiences a predominantly Mediterranean climate, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. However, as we explore different regions, you’ll see significant variations:

• Average Temperature : In January, Spain sees cooler temperatures, with the inland regions often colder than the coastal areas. Average daytime temperatures range from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F).
• Precipitation : January is relatively wet in Spain, especially along the northern and western coasts. You can expect some rainfall, with the average monthly precipitation ranging from 30 mm to 80 mm.
• Snow : Snow is not uncommon in some interior regions, particularly in Northern Spain and the Pyrenees.
• Sea Temperature : If you’re interested in swimming in the Mediterranean Sea or the Atlantic Ocean, be prepared for chillier water temperatures. The sea temperature typically ranges from 13°C to 16°C (55°F to 61°F). Perfect for cold water swimmers!

Now, let’s take a closer look at specific regions in Spain and their weather during January.

If you love snowy mountains, get yourself to the Pyrenees in Northern Spain close to the border with France.

Barcelona: A Mild Winter Wonderland

Barcelona, in Catalonia, is known for its mild winters, making it an excellent destination for a January getaway. The city enjoys a Mediterranean climate with cool and wet winters, but rarely does it become bitterly cold.

The sweltering heat and humidity of summer is a thing of the past and you will be able to walk for hours around the narrow gothic alleyways without even breaking a sweat.

You might encounter grey skies which lend an extra air of mystery to this medieval city. But blue skies are still plentiful and you shouldn’t count out a walk through the city’s many parks or a paella next to the beach.

• Average Temperature : Barcelona experiences average daytime temperatures of around 14°C (57°F) in January.
• Precipitation : Rainfall is moderate, with an average of 40 mm during the month.
• Snow : While it’s rare to see snow in Barcelona, the surrounding mountain areas like Montseny or Montserrat, usually great day trips from Barcelona , might have a dusting of snow.
• Sea Temperature : The sea is a bit chilly, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F).
• Activities : January is an excellent time to explore the city’s cultural and architectural things to do in Barcelona , including the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Gothic Quarter. You can also enjoy local cuisine in the city’s countless restaurants.

Visit the many museums in Bilbao in winter, including the most famous of all, the Guggenheim.

Northern Spain: A Diverse Climate

Northern Spain, including regions like Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country, experiences a varied climate in January. This area is known for its lush green landscapes and stunning coastal scenery.

The highlands around this region see many grey and rainy days throughout the year so showers in January are nothing new. But this all adds to the cozy atmosphere that dominates here. Spend your day strolling around the many wonderful museums in Bilbao and sipping on some deep red wines and you will quickly forget about the moody weather.

• Average Temperature : Expect cooler temperatures here, with averages between 8°C and 14°C (46°F to 57°F).
• Precipitation : Northern Spain sees relatively high precipitation in January, ranging from 70 mm to 140 mm, making it one of the wetter regions.
• Snow : Inland areas and mountainous regions, such as the Picos de Europa, may experience snowfall.
• Sea Temperature : The sea is quite cold, with temperatures around 11°C to 13°C (52°F to 55°F).
• Activities : Explore the charming cities, lush landscapes, and coastal villages. Northern Spain is known for its unique culinary traditions, so indulge in local dishes like Basque pintxos or Galician seafood.

Enjoy Spain in January, including quiet beaches and fun cold swimming (although not THAT cold!).

Malaga and the Costa del Sol: A Winter Retreat

The Costa del Sol, including popular destinations like Malaga , Marbella , and Torremolinos, is a sunny haven even in the winter months. In fact, this is one of the warmest places in Spain in winter . This is a haven for Brits and Europeans trying to escape their own fierce winters and get a little vitamin D fix – it isn’t called the Sunshine Coast for nothing!

Although temperatures are quite lounge-on-the-beach-all-day high, you will embrace the warmth nonetheless.

• Average Temperature : Malaga enjoys mild winters with temperatures averaging around 16°C (61°F) in January.
• Precipitation : The region experiences very little rain during this time, with an average of around 30 mm.
• Snow : Snowfall is extremely rare along the Costa del Sol.
• Sea Temperature : While it’s not ideal for swimming, the sea temperature hovers around 16°C (61°F).
• Activities : Enjoy the picturesque Malaga beaches , explore historic sites like the Alcazaba or the Malaga Cathedral, and savor delicious Andalusian cuisine in local tapas bars. This is a wonderful time of year to go hiking in this part of Spain or walk the Caminito del Rey. All are easy day trips from Malaga .

A light coat and scarf are enough even on a cloudy day in beautiful Valencia in winter. I climbed up to the top of the bell tower and worked up enough of a sweat to feel nice and warm!

Valencia: Pleasant Winters

Valencia, on the eastern coast of Spain, offers a pleasant climate in January, making it a great choice for a winter holiday.

The city’s location along the Mediterranean ensures relatively mild temperatures and an inviting atmosphere. While the rest of Europe shivers in the winter chill, Valencia remains comfortable and inviting.

• Average Temperature : Expect daytime temperatures around 15°C (59°F) in Valencia.
• Precipitation : Valencia sees light to moderate rainfall, with an average of 20 mm.
• Snow : Snowfall is extremely rare in Valencia.
• Sea Temperature : The Mediterranean Sea is a bit chilly, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F).
• Activities : There are so many great things to do in Valencia . Explore the futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences, stroll through the historic old town, and savor a taste of the city’s culinary specialty, paella, at one of the best paella restaurants in Valencia . There are great beaches and tons of great day trips from Valencia worth checking out as well. January is perfect for hiking in Buñol or wine tasting in Requena!

January is a great time to go hiking around the mountains near Valencia and explore the ancient ruins which are usually BOILING HOT in summer.

Madrid: Cold but Charming

The Spanish capital, Madrid , experiences a continental climate with cold winters, contrasting with the milder coastal regions of the country. While January can be chilly in the heart of Spain, the city’s enchanting atmosphere, cultural richness, and vibrant street life more than compensate for the cooler temperatures.

• Average Temperature : Madrid’s average daytime temperatures range from 4°C to 11°C (39°F to 52°F).
• Precipitation : The city is relatively dry, with an average of 20 mm of precipitation.
• Snow : Snowfall is not uncommon in Madrid, creating a picturesque winter scene. The city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Royal Palace and Puerta del Sol, look even more enchanting under a layer of snow.
• Activities : Madrid boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, including world-class museums like the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza. You can visit the Royal Palace, take a leisurely stroll through the Retiro Park, and warm up with a cup of traditional Spanish hot chocolate at one of the city’s charming cafés. Madrid’s vibrant street life and bustling tapas bars make it an exciting place to explore, even in winter.

Blue skies are common in Madrid in January. It’s cold but crisp and beautiful for exploring.

Alicante: Mild Winter on the Costa Blanca

Alicante, located on the Costa Blanca in southeastern Spain, is a fantastic destination for those seeking a mild and sunny winter getaway. This region is known for its beautiful Mediterranean climate and stunning coastline, and it’s a place where you can escape the cold and gray of winter in many other parts of Europe.

• Average Temperature : Alicante’s daytime temperatures average around 16°C (61°F) in January.
• Precipitation : Precipitation is low, with an average of 20 mm of rain during the month.
• Snow : Snow is extremely rare in Alicante.
• Sea Temperature : The sea temperature hovers around 15°C (59°F), making it quite cold for swimming.
• Activities : There are plenty of great things to do in Alicante to keep you busy throughout the year. Alicante is a destination that offers a pleasant mix of relaxation and exploration. You can soak up the sun on the picturesque Alicante beaches , explore historical sites like Santa Barbara Castle, and dine at seafront restaurants, savoring local dishes like seafood paella. The city’s vibrant cultural scene and delightful cuisine will keep you entertained throughout your stay.

The views over Alicante harbor. You can get up into the hills around Santa Barbara Castle without breaking a sweat in January.

Almeria: A Mild Winter Oasis

Almeria, located on the southern coast of Spain, offers a mild winter climate that is both welcoming and comfortable. This lesser-known gem is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a peaceful escape during the winter months.

• Average Temperature : Almeria boasts daytime temperatures of around 17°C (63°F) in January.
• Precipitation : The region sees minimal rainfall, with an average of 20 mm during the month.
• Snow : Snowfall is exceptionally rare in Almeria.
• Sea Temperature : The Mediterranean Sea is around 15°C (59°F).
• Activities : Almeria is a place of unique landscapes and opportunities for exploration. You can visit the Tabernas Desert, which is Europe’s only desert, or explore the stunning Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park . Don’t forget to savor local dishes, particularly local seafood dishes. Almeria’s tranquility and natural beauty create a peaceful and memorable winter oasis.

Cities are great trips to take around Spain in January because even if it it gets cold, you can explore so many indoor activities, too.

Seville: A Winter of Mild Temperatures

Seville, the capital of Andalusia, offers a pleasant winter climate that sets the stage for a delightful January getaway. This city is famous for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, and in the winter months, it exudes charm without the summer’s scorching heat.

• Average Temperature : Seville experiences average daytime temperatures of around 16°C (61°F) in January.
• Precipitation : Precipitation is low, with an average of 30 mm of rainfall.
• Snow : Snowfall is exceedingly rare in Seville.
• Activities : There are so many wonderful things to do in Seville . It is a city that beckons you to explore its stunning architecture, from the Alcazar and Seville Cathedral to the iconic Plaza de España. You can also immerse yourself in the world of flamenco, indulge in delicious Andalusian tapas, take a tour of Seville , and enjoy the city’s vibrant street life. Seville’s cultural richness and pleasant winter weather make it an excellent choice for a memorable holiday.

January in Spain is great for futbol fans! There are plenty of games to go to around the country at this time of year. Just be sure to bring enough layers if you are going to see Madrid!

Ibiza: A Mild Winter Escape

Ibiza, known for its vibrant nightlife and stunning beaches, takes on a different charm in January. While it’s not the peak season for beach parties, the island offers a more relaxed and serene atmosphere, making it an appealing destination for a winter escape.

• Average Temperature : Ibiza experiences mild winters, with daytime temperatures averaging around 14°C (57°F) in January.
• Precipitation : Rainfall is relatively low, with an average of 30 mm, making it one of the drier regions in Spain during January.
• Snow : Snow is virtually unheard of in Ibiza. You won’t have to worry about winter weather impacting your plans.
• Sea Temperature : The Mediterranean Sea remains chilly, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 15°C (55°F to 59°F).
• Activities : Ibiza may not be bustling with summer crowds, but it’s an excellent time to explore its natural wonders, including serene coves and hiking trails. The island’s charming villages, such as Dalt Vila, offer a glimpse into its rich history. Plus, with fewer tourists, you can experience a more authentic side of Ibiza and take advantage of the island’s delicious cuisine in local restaurants. Some of the best beach clubs in Ibiza , which are usually hundreds of Euros to enjoy are a fraction of the cost and so much more laid back.

January in Spain is great to go running by the beach. The perfect temperature for jogging is around this time of year, especially in southern Spain.

The Canary Islands: Year-Round Paradise

The Canary Islands, including Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, and Fuerteventura, are known for their pleasant year-round climate, making them an ideal choice for a winter getaway. These islands offer a variety of landscapes, from lush greenery to volcanic landscapes, providing a diverse range of experiences.

• Average Temperature : The Canary Islands boast mild winters, with daytime temperatures ranging from 17°C to 22°C (63°F to 72°F) in January.
• Precipitation : The islands typically receive low rainfall, with an average of around 20 mm.
• Snow : Snow is virtually non-existent in the Canary Islands.
• Sea Temperature : The sea remains relatively warm, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 21°C (64°F to 70°F).
• Activities : The Canary Islands offer a diverse range of activities, including exploring the dramatic landscapes of Teide National Park in Tenerife, relaxing on the golden beaches of Gran Canaria, or indulging in water sports on the coasts of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura. The islands are also known for their unique flora and fauna, making them a haven for nature enthusiasts. Plus, vibrant festivals and events often take place, providing a glimpse into the islands’ rich culture and traditions.

What Else is Happening in Spain in January?

Beyond the weather, Spain offers a variety of events and traditions during January, ensuring a culturally rich and diverse experience for visitors. Here’s a closer look at some of the highlights:

Three Kings’ Day (Dia de los Reyes Magos)

January 6th marks a significant holiday in Spain, Dia de los Reyes Magos , or Three Kings’ Day. This celebration is an extension of Christmas celebrations and sort of marks the end of the Christmas period. Children usually receive presents from the three kings.

Festivities often include parades, with the Kings arriving in towns and cities to greet excited crowds. It’s a wonderful time to witness the magic and joy of Spanish traditions.

There are so many wonderful Roman and Moorish ruins around Spain to explore and January is a fun time of year to do that with fewer tourists and far less oppressive heat than the popular summer months.

Winter Festivals

Various cities across Spain host vibrant winter festivals during January, adding a unique and festive atmosphere. One such event is the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife in the Canary Islands.

This carnival is renowned for its elaborate costumes, lively music, and exuberant parades. Additionally, the Fiestas de San Sebastian in the Basque Country feature processions, musical performances, and the iconic Tamborrada drumming festival bringing communities together in celebration.

Skiing in the Pyrenees

If you’re a winter sports enthusiast, Spain offers excellent skiing opportunities in the Pyrenees during January. Destinations like Baqueira-Beret, Sierra Nevada, and Formigal are popular among skiers and snowboarders. The Pyrenees’ snowy slopes provide the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventure and alpine thrills.

Olive Harvest

In the Andalusian region, January is the prime season for olive harvesting. This time of year, olive groves come alive with activity as local farmers and communities participate in the ancient tradition of collecting olives.

You might even have the chance to join in the process, of experiencing the time-honored art of olive picking. Additionally, olive mills open their doors to visitors, offering insights into the production of olive oil, a fundamental element of Spanish cuisine.

Citrus Fruits

January marks the peak season for delicious Spanish citrus fruits. Oranges, lemons, and tangerines are in abundance and are at their juiciest and most flavorful.

Whether you enjoy them fresh, as part of a refreshing juice, or as a complement to local dishes, sampling these seasonal fruits is a delightful way to savor the tastes of Spain in January. Many cities host citrus festivals and markets to celebrate the harvest.

There is never a bad time to visit Spain (unless you hate the heat, then summer is the worst time). But January is a great time to visit to do some cool-weather exploring without hoards of tourists.

Should You Visit Spain in January?

January in Spain is an ideal time to visit the country for lots of reasons. Whether you are looking for a sunny escape from winter in Northern Europe or you want to enjoy some of the usually busy destinations without the hoards of tourists, it’s a great month of the year to visit.

January is a unique time to explore Spain’s diverse regions. From the mild and sunny Costa del Sol to the cool, vibrant city of Madrid, there’s something for every traveler.

Keep in mind that while the weather varies, you can enjoy cultural events and seasonal specialties throughout the country.

So, whether you’re looking for a beach escape, a city adventure, or a chance to experience Spanish traditions, Spain in January has much to offer. Plan your trip accordingly, and you’ll be sure to have a memorable winter getaway.

January in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

While Northern Europe's quaint Christmas markets or the Caribbean's sandy beaches top most traveler's winter bucket lists, strolling through sunny, Mediterranean Spain during the winter months can also be quite a thrill.

Long gone are summer's throngs of tourists, leaving in their wake cooler temperatures and sleepy towns. You can even ski, shop, and enjoy all that Spain has to offer in January. Plus, in some places, it's still warm enough for a day at the beach!

Spain Weather in January

It's cold in January in most of Spain, but what did you expect? It's winter! Time to enjoy what winter in Spain can offer you (did you know you can ski in Spain ?).

Now is not really the time to come to Spain if you are looking to top up your tan (though it might be possible on the south coast). Expect rain and overcast days wherever you are in the country, but not all the time. While average high temperatures range from 52 to 61 degrees Fahrenheit (11 to 16 degrees Celsius), and lows dip to freezing, weather is unpredictable, so you might see some extremes.

• Madrid: 52 F (11 C)/32 F (0 C)
• Barcelona: 55 F (13 C)/39 F (4 C)
• Malaga: 61 F (16 C)/45 F (7 C)
• Bilbao: 55 F (13 C)/43 F (6 C)
• Santiago de Compostela: 55 F (13 C)/46 F (8 C)

Madrid 's winter weather can be extremely unpredictable, ranging from bitterly cold to surprisingly mild. On the whole, though, you can expect it to be cold in Madrid in January (it's the coldest month of the year in the city). It should be generally dry but pack an umbrella just in case. Barcelona has a beach, but don't expect anyone to be on it in January. It'll be pretty cold for the whole month, though it should stay fairly dry.

Spain's coldest month chills even its warmest region. Rogue warm days in Malaga are certainly possible but don't expect to return home with a tan. The north of Spain, near Bilbao, tends to be cold and wet in winter and January is just about the coldest and most wet. You should expect some rain every other day or so and will definitely need a jacket, especially at night. By being incredibly wet, Galicia escapes some of the cold experienced in the rest of Spain in January. But with rain expected on two-out-of-three days, you might welcome a cold, dry day occasionally! 

What to Pack

While you won't be fighting heavy crowds in January in Spain, you will need to bundle up—just a bit—to combat the decreased temperatures. You won't need heavy winter gear in Spain, but some cold-weather basics will come in handy, especially in the country's older, poorly-insulated buildings where nights can be extremely cold. To start, a good packing list should include:

• Short-sleeve shirts for layering
• Long-sleeve tops or blouses
• A sweatshirt or cardigan
• A light jacket
• A lightweight scarf or pashmina
• A dress or slightly more formal outfit for evenings out 

January Events in Spain

After the rush and excitement of the holiday season, January is a lighter month for events in Spain. While there are a few regular events held each year, every city is sure to have its own rotating calendar of art exhibitions, theater performances, and concerts too.

• Dia de los Reyes Magos : Also known as Epiphany, this is celebrated each year on January 6, and marks the end of the Christmas holiday season. Many shops, restaurants, and attractions will be closed and many small towns have parades
• International Winter Motorcycle Rally : Each year in mid-January, the city of Valladolid hosts this event, which brings together thousands of people of different nationalities and their bikes.
• International Tourism Fair : Travelers and those working in the travel industry won't want to miss this annual event held in Madrid at the end of January. The giant expo draws more than 10,000 exhibitors.
• The Tamborrada : One of Spain's loudest festivals, the Tamborrada is held each year in San Sebastian . During this mid-January celebration, hundreds of drummers parade the streets making as much noise as possible. It's great fun—but bring your earplugs!
• Jarramplas : Most people know about La Tomatina, the tomato-based food fight, but fewer have heard of this food-throwing festival, where turnips are the vegetable of choice. The unique event takes place each January in Caceres.
• A celebration of Christians' victory over the Moors : On January 2, the whole city of Granada celebrates the final victory of the Reconquista, which in 1492 expelled the Moors. As part of the celebration, the highest tower at the Alhambra is open to the public on this day.

January Travel Tips

• Spain has more mountains than any other country in Europe, which means great skiing! If you're looking for high-end ski resorts, the Pyrenees , along the border of Spain and France, is home some of the world's best. Even the south of Spain, in Sierra Nevada, is home to plenty of great powder and plenty of sunny days.
• Spanish summers are hot, which means many shopkeepers and restaurants owners flee to cooler climates. Luckily, this isn't the case during the winter: Visiting in January means you'll find most towns in full-swing, with plenty of action, especially since Christmas holidays are over. 
• Spain isn't a cheap country to visit, but traveling during the winter drops costs considerably. It's not unusual to find a decent hotel room for 40 Euro per night—or less!
• If you're in Spain for New Year's Eve, ring in the holiday at the Puerta del Sol in Madrid; here you'll find costumed revelers, confetti, and more.

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Road is Calling

Visiting Spain in Winter: What to Know, Why to Go & What to Expect?

Last year, at the end of November, we spontaneously made a plan to visit Spain during the winter. The reason for that was cheap flights to Barcelona and very affordable car rental (like $18 for two weeks, it was too tempting.) So we quickly packed and went. And honestly, it turned out to be the best decision we made. 

In December, we visited Catalonia, Valencia , and Murcia and thought it was a perfect time for Spain. Then we went on a  road trip from Barcelona to Valencia and in February, rented a flat in Santander, Cantabria, moving there for some time. We traveled all over the Northern Coast and also thought it was the best time to be there. No crowds, peace, and quiet almost everywhere with significantly lower prices.

Costa Brava’s nature and coast reminded us so much of Southern California where we used to live for almost four years. Amazing beaches of Cantabria in winter reminded of Oregon in the summertime . It was great and we loved every single day there.

This year we will be visiting again, and again during the winter. We feel that we don’t really want to go during any other season, just loved it so much.

So this is why I wanted to write this post and share about my experience of traveling around Spain during the winter season. It will surely help you understand if this is a good time of the year to travel for you personally.

What’s the weather like in Spain in winter?

So what’s the weather like in Spain in winter?

The climate in Spain is considered to be one of the mildest and warmest among European countries. Winter is not an exception here. However, the temperature depends largely on the region of the country and the proximity of the mountains or the sea.

In mountainous regions, for example, the temperatures in winter get below zero. So if you are up for skiing , there will be plenty of snow in the mountains.

The northern part of Spain, particularly the provinces of Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria, the Basque Country, and Navarre usually get quite a lot of rain during the winter and get chilly.

As for the coast, the average daytime temperature in winter is about 15 degrees Celcius (60 Fahrenheit.) The weather in Catalonia and Costa Brava regions is usually sunny with little precipitation. By mid-January though, the number of cloudy days increases.

In January and February, the air temperature in Spain gradually decreases. However, in the Canary Islands, it is still warm – above 20 degrees Celsius.

Overall, the weather in Spain in winter contributes to a comfortable journey throughout the country. Below is a detailed description of the weather each month.

Weather in Spain in December

For someone who comes from the North, the weather in Spain in December does not look like winter at all. At the same time, it is not really summer. The main climatic difference of this month is gusty winds, an increased level of humidity, and a decrease in daily temperatures.

Especially noticeable it is in the coastal zones of the country which are open to the sea. In the northeast of Spain, in Catalonia , it gets quite cold. For example, in the Costa Brava region , the average temperature is +13 degrees C during the day and +6 degrees C at night. In Barcelona, ​​during daylight hours, the temperature is almost the same. The nights though are somewhat warmer with a temperature of +8 degrees C.

However, Costa Dorada , which is a bit more to the south, experiences more comfortable weather due to its protection from cyclones by the chain of mountain systems of the Pyrenees and Cordillera. On this stretch of coast in December there is an average of 11-12 rainy days. So the weather may feel a little cooler than it actually is.

When planning your trip here , you should definitely pack a pair of good waterproof shoes and windproof outerwear . Taking into account the fact that storms take place too and precipitation can be very intense, a raincoat will be very useful as well. Umbrellas don’t often withstand the pressure of the wind, so not sure how useful they will be.

The southern regions of the country are experiencing better weather conditions in terms of temperature. So, in Costa del Sol , between Gibraltar and Malaga, the maximum temperature usually reaches +17 degrees C. At night it is about +9 degrees C. However, do not rely on dry weather here. It can rain for 50% of the time.

Madrid , located on a hill, during the entire winter season experiences rather cold weather, with temperature dips during the day. When leaving your hotel early in the morning, put on some warm clothes. At this time of the day, the thermometer can barely reach +5 degrees C.

In the afternoon, the air warms up to +9 degrees C. However, when the humidity is high and it’s cloudy, long walks around the city are really unpleasant. There is no snow in the capital, but the northern mountain regions not far from Madrid see a lot of it.

Cities along the northern coast of Spain experience moderately cold weather. For example, in Santander, the daily temperature is between +8 + 13 degrees C, and in San Sebastian +6 + 8.

The Balearic Islands in December are significantly colder than the Mediterranean ones of the Andalusia region. So, in Ibiza and Formentera , the daily temperature ranges between +9 + 16 degrees C, in Mallorca +7 + 15, and in Menorca it’s slightly cooler during the day and +8 + 14 at night.

Weather in Spain in January

Madrid in january.

January weather in Madrid can be extremely unpredictable – from severely cold to surprisingly mild. In general, however, you can expect it to be cold. This is the coldest month of the year in the city.

You may need an umbrella during this time of the year. The average maximum temperature in Madrid in January is 11 degrees C, and the average minimum temperature is 0.

Weather in Barcelona in January

If you don’t know that yet, there is a beach in Barcelona. But you won’t find anyone there in January. Because the whole month is usually pretty cold and windy, although it stays pretty dry.

The average maximum temperature in Barcelona in January is 13 degrees C, and the average minimum temperature is 4 C.

Weather in Andalusia in January

The coldest month in Spain brings some cold even to the warmest region. Hot, warm days are, of course, possible, but don’t expect to return home with a tan as you’ve been to the Caribbean. The average maximum temperature in Malaga in January, for instance, is 16 degrees. And the average minimum temperature is 7 degrees.

Weather in Northern Spain in January

The north of Spain in January sees a lot of cold, gloomy, and wet days. It will be very rainy, so you will definitely need a jacket, especially at night. The average maximum temperature in Bilbao in January is 13 degrees C, and the average minimum temperature is 6 degrees C.

Weather in North-West Spain in January

Being incredibly wet, Galicia escaped some of the cold weather experienced in the rest of Spain in January. The average maximum temperature in Santiago de Compostela in January is 13 degrees C, and the average minimum temperature is 8 C.

Best places to go in Spain in winter if…

From my experience, Spain is one of those few European destinations where winters are fun. No matter which part of the country you go to, there is always something exciting to do and the weather is always nice. Any time during the winter is a good time to visit Spain.

An answer to this question though depends on what your preferences are. But I personally feel that Spain has activities for any taste and budget.

Here are some ideas on what to do and where to go:

… if you love winter sports

Spain is second only to Switzerland in the number of mountain peaks in Europe. It is a few times cheaper than Switzerland but the quality of ski resorts is excellent and suits even the most fastidious tourists.

So if you are looking to spend a few days during your holidays somewhere in the mountains, look no further. There are endless opportunities to do that in Spain.

In wintertime, almost every Spaniard goes to the mountains at least once. If you do too, you won’t be disappointed. Magnificent ski trails and high-class service, combined with the extraordinary beauty of the scenery – this is what Spain is famous for.

Spain has more than 30 ski resorts. The largest and the most popular one in the country is Formigal , located in the Western Pyrenees . Either you are a beginner or a professional, you’ll feel comfortable there.

Another popular winter holiday destination is the Sierra Nevada , the southernmost ski resort in Europe. Besides developed infrastructure, long tracks, high lifts, lots of cafes, and areas for rest, it has an excellent location. It is uniquely located in a natural reserve, at the foot of the city of Granada . On a sunny day, from the top of the mountain, you can see the Mediterranean Sea and even the coast of Morocco .

Take a look at this list of all ski resorts in Spain  for detailed information.

… if you are craving the beach, sea, and breeze

Spain in winter is a perfect destination for those who are looking to escape the cold.

The temperature allows you to relax on the beach under the warm sun, and the resorts in many parts of the country have a lot to offer.

Winter Sun in the Andalusia Region 

The southern coast of Spain Andalusia has a unique climate. The mountain range protects this area from cold air currents, and its excellent geographical position keeps air temperature at 20C degrees or higher. At the same time, the water temperature doesn’t go below 16C degrees.

One of the best resort towns to visit in Andalusia in winter is Marbella . On one side, the city is surrounded by a mountain range, and on the other, by the seaside of Costa del Sol . Almost all 365 days a year in Marbella are sunny. In addition to the amazing climate, the city is known for its developed infrastructure and many historical attractions.

The port city Malaga is another beautiful resort town in Spain that offers winter sun activities. The weather forecast every day of the year shows sunny weather with no precipitation.

Two more beautiful cities on different sides of Malaga that beckon travelers in winter are Cadiz and Almeria . In my opinion, the south of Spain in winter is more attractive than in summer. Summers are just so hot, nature looks dry and tired. But winter is that season when nature wakes up to life.

Spanish Islands for Winter Escape 

Another place you can associate with eternal summer and winter getaways is the Canary Islands . It deservedly attracts many tourists from different countries since it is pleasantly warm year-round. The thermometer mark does not fall below +25C degrees (77 Fahrenheit) while the water stays 20-22 degrees warm.

The southern coast of Tenerife , Gran Canaria, or the island of Palma guarantee sun and warmth every winter day. North of Tenerife what feels like eternal spring is also a wonderful destination for winter warmth. The amazing landscape with mountain volcanoes and sand dunes makes this part of Spain one of the best destinations in Europe.

Eastern islands of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura (which are only 100 kilometers away from the African continent) are even warmer. There, north or south are equally warm. On these islands, you’ll find pyramids , just like in Egypt. They are not as high as in Egypt but built at the same time and on the same principle as the famous Great Pyramid of Giza.

|| RELATED POST ||

NORTHERN COAST OF SPAIN – WHAT MAKES IT SO SPECIAL?

… if you love shopping

Shopping in Spain in winter is incredibly profitable due to countless sales and discounts.

Sales usually start on January 7th and last until March 6th. At this time of the year, prices for branded items and equipment get cheaper by 90 percent. Of course, if you are looking to buy something from a well-known designer, expect to pay a considerable amount of money. But in Spain, it costs a few times less than let’s say in Paris, Milan or New York.

Barcelona is the best city for shopping. There are tens of thousands of shops, boutiques, malls, and outlets in Barcelona and on the outskirts.

Through the city center, there is a 5 kilometer long stretch of luxury boutique shops that locals call a “Shopping Line”. It starts at the Columbus Monument on the waterfront and goes all the way to Maria Cristina Square.

Madrid with its upscale neighborhood Salamanca also provides unlimited opportunities for shopper lovers.

… if you’d love to go on a thermal spa vacation

I am absolutely obsessed with hot springs and thermal spas. Over the years, I have been searching for information about the best hot springs around the world and even created my own spreadsheet with hundreds of them, which I regularly update. And, have to tell you that Spain has quite a few amazing thermal spa spots.

For me personally, Spain comes next after Slovakia hot springs, Cyprus mineral spas , and Hungary  with its fantastic spa-centers. (Have you been to Budapest yet, by the way? This city has simply amazing thermal baths and hot springs that I also wrote about.)

Thermal springs in Spain are everywhere: in the mountains, forests, and even along the coast. You can opt for hot springs in the wilderness, choose to go to a health resort or one of the hotels that have thermal baths and their own spas.

For example, in Catalonia and Andalusia, more than a hundred hotels offer thalasso , balneo,  or thermal spas . To find out which one suits you better, take a look at this post . Not sure what a balneo spa is? Here is another post  on balneo therapy that explains it all. Want to know what is thalassotherapy? Read this information on thalassotherapy .

In most cases, spas that offer services use healing waters and it is believed they heal various illnesses. However, Spain also has wine spas where the product, which is usually used internally, is used for preventive purposes. The main treatments in wine spas are bathing, scrubbing and wrapping.

If you happen to travel to Northern Spain, pay a visit to Marques de Riscal Hotel in Rioja . This hotel was the first one with a wine spa in Spain and today is in the top 5 wine spas in the world.

Check prices and availability for Hotel Marqués de Riscal on Booking.com

If travels bring you to the Canary Islands, there you’ll find mainly wellness and spa hotels . In many cases no need to be an overnight guest, you can visit on a day pass, like at  Aqua Club Thermal Spa .

… if you are a foodie and gourmet

One of the reasons why so many tourists choose Spain is the famous authentic cuisine. It is very rich and differs a lot from one region to another.

It’s probably impossible to advise the best gastro routes. Everything depends on your personal culinary preferences. But I do advise to get a tour or visit a restaurant that has at least one Michelin star, even if you are not really a foodie. In this case, you’ll discover the best tastes of the country. You’ll get to try ham, paella, the freshest seafood, the finest lamb and mutton, the best Spanish wines and cheeses.

By the way, visiting Spain in winter has another benefit. In winter there are delicacies on the menu that you won’t find during the summer . For example, fresh sea urchins . They are available only from December to April and their caviar, as many people say, works wonders. It is said that it kills cancer cells and increases potency, normalizes blood pressure, and improves the functioning of the heart and blood vessels.

Here are a few ideas for you what tours to take:

• Tapas and wine walking tour in Barcelona. We took the tapas tour and were so happy that wanted to repeat. It includes tapas, wine, tour, guide, being in a small group, and more.
• Tapas half-day tour in Barcelona. Very similar to the previous one but includes other activities.
• Wine and Tapas in Madrid . If you are going to be in Madrid, this is an excellent tour to take.
• Valencia Wine Tasting and Tapas Tour . Valencia food tour that introduces you to a wide selection of traditional foods.

… if you are in search of history and cultural events

Winter in Spain is an ideal time for excursions and trips to historic cities.

Lovers of cultural life, museums, and excursions should visit dynamic Madrid with its famous Prado gallery (in other words the world’s largest museum) or Barcelona which is home to Catalan Modernism. To find the best flamenco in a country , you should visit Seville. To walk through the streets of one of the oldest cities head to Girona .

Other famous tourist routes also pass through Valencia, San Sebastian, Granada, Malaga, and Bilbao.

Spain, along with Italy and China, has the most UNESCO world heritage sites.  Santiago de Compostela keeps the third most important Catholic sanctuary in the world.  Salamanca has one of the best universities in the world. Avila is a city of churches and monasteries, surrounded by the most ancient and best-preserved fortress wall.

Segovia is the city-museum. Cuenca is famous for its famous hanging houses. Caceres with its old quarters, palaces, and cathedrals look very ancient what draws filmmakers to this area. Toledo –  the medieval imperial capital of Spain, the city of three world religions, and the great El Greco.  Alcala de Henares, the birthplace of the greatest writer of humanity Miguel de Cervantes, is home to one of the most famous and prestigious universities in Spain.

Where is the warmest place in Spain in winter?

If I had to compare Spain with Canada, most of the U.S. , Northern or Eastern Europe then I would surely say that anywhere in Spain it is pretty warm in winter. Still, it doesn’t automatically mean that Spain is a beach and sun destination.

In case you are wanting to escape not only snow and cold but would actually love to take a dip in the sea then look into the Canary Islands . The temperature in Tenerife is 25 degrees Celsius (77 Fahrenheit) year-round. Besides the sea, there are other numerous activities to do, such as an aqua park , an exotic park of parrots , a world-famous volcano Teide that you can reach by a funicular.

The southern coast of the Andalusia region has really warm winters too. The mountain range protects this area from the cold air currents, and its excellent geographical position provides at least 20C of air temperature and at least 16C of sea temperature.

Marbella is one of the best resort towns with almost 365 sunny and warm days. On the one side, there are mountains, on the other, there is a beach. In addition to the amazing climate and nature, the city is known for its developed infrastructure and many historical sites. And then Malaga with the warmest weather located nearby. The forecast reports almost every day show sunny weather. 

Cadiz and Almeria are two other warmest towns in Andalusia.

What to Expect From Barcelona in Winter

If you plan to visit Barcelona in winter, you can definitely expect it to be free of crowds of tourists. Embankments and beaches that are equipped with excellent playgrounds, interesting rope swings, cozy cafes, and designated picnic areas are almost empty during each month of this season. Winter is the ideal time of the year for unhurried walks along deserted streets and the sea coast. On warmer days, you can even take off a jacket and hat and go for a walk enjoying the sun.

The seaside air and the sound of the waves fill with calm and give peace of mind. Some travelers choose to go to Barcelona in winter just for the climate and quietness alone.

Also, as I mentioned above with other places, the winter months in Barcelona will appeal to shoppers. All kinds of promotions and sales provide a great opportunity to buy anything you wish from a famous designer with 70% discounts.

Barcelona is impossible to understand without walking along its unusual streets. The ingenious architecture of the famous Gaudi, such as the houses of Mila and Batllo, the famous Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, looks harmoniously with modern buildings and huge entertainment centers.

Sad mimes and mischievous magicians add to the atmosphere in the ancient Square of Catalonia, La Rambla Boulevard, and the Gothic Quarter. Small tourist flow in winter provides an excellent opportunity to enjoy visiting museums and get acquainted with the history of sunny Spain in a relaxed atmosphere .

Fans of noisy parties will enjoy visiting music festivals of various styles. And those who love going to the theater will be amazed at the Gran Theater del Liceu and the National Theater. Symphony concerts, opera, ballet, and live music concerts take place there throughout the winter.

What to Expect From Madrid in Winter

Oh, Madrid, the capital of the great empire, great paintings and literature, the city of famous museums, bullfights, don Juan, and art.

In the summer, unbelievably hot Madrid awash with tourists is not very good for exploring city attractions that are huge in the heart of Spain. But the winter period is ideal for getting to know the city. Of course, on those days when it doesn’t rain non-stop and the wind is not strong.

You can walk along the old streets of Madrid and visit museums without standing up in kilometers long queues. Winter in Madrid is seriously a perfect time for the calm and laid-back atmosphere all over the city.

Reviews about holidays in Madrid in the low season suggest that winter has even more advantages than summer. First of all, as with any other place – fewer tourists. As with Barcelona, in the low tourist season in Madrid, there are few people on the streets, in museums and cafes. Hotels have plenty of availability and lower prices.

Second, it’s all about the weather. In the summer, for instance, it is simply impossible to be outside for a long time. While in the winter, Madrid always has pleasant mild temperatures.

Christmas markets and New Year’s illumination stay on the streets throughout the first week of January, creating a fabulous atmosphere. The sales start on the 7th of January and last all month long. You have the ability to explore the “open-air museum-city” at a slow pace. The main and, perhaps, the only disadvantage of visiting Madrid in the middle of winter is the low temperature. January is considered the coldest month of the year.

I have another very detailed guide to Madrid in winter . Give it a read to understand better what to expect there.

The holiday season, events, and activities in Spain during the winter

Spain is famous for many different winter holidays and Christmas is just one of them.

Christmas celebrations in Spain starts on December 8th. On this day Spaniards celebrate the day of Immaculate Conception. All big cities and small towns get decorations depicting biblical stories while houses, shops, and bus stops get bright ornaments.

A classical Christmas market is no different from other European destinations. It opens annually in Barcelona on the main square in front of the Cathedral. Also, there are small markets that operate near Sagrada Familia. But they are usually very busy on a regular day and holidays get insanely crowded. Locals in Barcelona like to go to the Plaza del Pi market. Below, you can find more information on Christmas markets in Spain.

Christmas is a very important holiday in Spain. And what’s interesting, each region has its own traditions, cooks different dishes, decorates trees, squares, churches, and streets in its own way.

In Grenada, locals have an unusual tradition of Christmas celebration in a way of bonfires they jump over.

In February, Barcelona hosts a gastronomic festival . Chefs of the best restaurants demonstrate their national cuisine cooking skills. If you are a gourmet, it’s the right time of the year to visit Spain.

From February 27th to March 9th Spanish city Cadiz holds a real carnival. During this time, residents dress up in masquerade costumes and walk the streets. The celebration is accompanied by songs, dancing, and competitions.

THE MOST ESSENTIAL TRAVEL TIPS FOR BARCELONA EVERY TRAVELER SHOULD KNOW

Christmas Markets in Spain

December in Spain is a month of nationwide sales season. Christmas markets open around the entire country. This is a fantastic place for holiday shopping and buying gifts and souvenirs. Christmas markets in Spain open in late November and close in early January. Here are some of the most famous ones:

Christmas Markets in Barcelona

– Fira de Santa Lucia (Fira De Santa Lucia) – the oldest and largest Christmas market in Barcelona.

– Fira de Nadal in La Sagrada Familia (Fira de Nadal a la Sagrada Familia.) The location of this market makes it possible, in addition to shopping, to see the masterpiece of Gaudi and the park.

Christmas Markets in Madrid

– Plaza Mayor has a great selection of Christmas musical instruments and toys.

– Feria-Mercado de Artesanie de la Comunidad de Madrid specializes in local products, ceramics, and jewelry. All of them were designed and manufactured by more than 180 artisan workshops.

Christmas Markets in Seville

– Mercado Navideño de Artesanía de Sevilla – the fair is dedicated to seasonal local crafts in the characteristic Andalusian style. About 80 wooden chalets are decorated with works by artisans and traders from Seville and the surrounding area.

– Feria del Belén – the main focus of this market is exclusively on decorations for the den and Christmas tree. Still, it has other products for the entire family.

Christmas Markets in Granada

– Mercado de Navidad is a fairly small market with a wide range of Spanish Christmas decorations, candles, flowers, unique gifts and sweets.

Christmas Markets in Malaga

– Mercadillo Navideño Jardin Botanico La Concepción is an interesting market. It is full of sparkling displays and illuminations and offers light shows.

Christmas Markets in Valencia

– Feria de Atracciones de Navidad is located between the streets Ingeniero Manuel Soto and Avda. It has many seasonal stalls, festive music, lights, and sweets. Everyone can find a large number of attractions for his taste – from Ferris wheels to mini-trains for children.

For more Christmas markets in Valencia and winter travel tips, don’t miss my post about winter in Valencia .

Christmas Markets in Zaragoza

– Mercadillo Navideño Plaza del Pilar Christmas market in Plaza del Pilar has an ice rink, live music, and dance performances. There are rides and entertainment for all ages.

Christmas Markets in Cordoba

– Mercado de Navidad is located in the central square of Tendillas in Cordoba . There is everything here that you can expect from the Christmas market. There is food, stalls with sweets, mulled wine, toys, and handicrafts, as well as entertaining theater performances.

Tips on what to pack for winter holidays in Spain

Don’t forget that the weather in Spain in winter really depends on where exactly you go and what you are planning to do. Pack light but definitely take layers and at least some warmer clothes. Even if you are traveling to the South only, expect cold nights.

If you don’t plan to go skiing but still would love to visit the mountains, don’t forget gloves, a hat, and a scarf. It gets really windy in the mountains.

Another important item is comfortable walking shoes . Expect to walk a lot. If budget allows, choose leather only. Leather boots are always comfortable, feet wrapped in leather never sweat, and don’t get blisters from long walks. When buying them, you are going to save money too.

When you are packing for Spain, also don’t forget your swimwear.

We completely forgot to take ours (actually we didn’t forget, we deliberately didn’t pack them thinking they would not come in handy) which was a mistake. We thought the sea was cold anyway and we would not be swimming. But then we learned about the thermal baths and our hotel in Girona had a beautiful pool, so we had to run around looking for swimsuits.

When we were in Catalonia and Costa Brava in December, the weather was warm during the day (on the picture above you can see what I wore on one of those days) but was getting much colder in the evening. Mark was even putting his hat and gloves on while I was wearing a warm jacket.

And the last thing, do not forget glasses, even cold days are going to be very bright and sunny. Make sure to opt for 100% UV protection coating sunglasses to protect your eyes.

Packing light is important. I invite you to check my other post on what to wear in Spain during any season. It has way more practical tips.

More Spain Travel Resources For You 

If you are traveling to Spain in winter for the first time, I have more resources to help you get the best of your trip. Check out my guides to Madrid in winter  and Barcelona travel tips .

Also, with excellent roads, beautiful scenery on all sides and ancient towns, Spain is made for road trips! Thus, if you plan on visiting Spain in December, January or February, make sure to include a road trip into your itinerary to cover a few regions. And to help you understand what driving in Spain is like and best companies to rent a car, see my post about car hire in Spain .

For more winter content, check my other posts – Kyiv in winter , what is Turkey in winter like , and what to expect from travel in Montenegro in winter . If you are a budget traveler, here is the cheapest places to travel in Europe  post.

I am also regularly adding more content on Spain .  Sign up for my newsletter  to know when the next post is up on the blog.

So, happy travels and enjoy Spain! In winter this country is particularly beautiful!

More Winter Travel Guides For Europe

• Visiting Cyprus in Winter – 8 Fabulous Things to Do + Winter Travel Tips 
• Montenegro in Winter Travel Tips – where to go & what to do
• Turkey in Winter – 8 Things to Know Before You Go
• Ukraine in Winter – why it’s also a good season to visit
• 12 Cheapest Places Where to Travel in Europe For Winter Getaway – best for budget travelers

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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32 Comments

Yess, thank you for including a section on the warmest places to visit in Spain in the winter! I’m down to save money on traveling during the off-season, but I really hate the cold, ha. But I just read a post on visiting Italy in the winter, too, so maybe that’s a sign….Thanks for the guide!

Thank you, Dylan. I hear you, don’t like cold too. Glad you like my post!

Although I love cold weather, I love warm places too, they’re just comfortable to travel 🙂 I am in love with your pictures, and I had no idea about the sale season of Spain..will keep that in mind 😀 I looked up your recommendations for the leather boots, sadly they’re not available in India 🙁

Thanks, Shivani, unfortunately, many items are not available in India, I’ve heard that from other readers too. I don’t know why 🙁 I found the same is for Ukraine. When I am there I can’t order lots of things, because amazon and other major companies just don’t deliver to Ukraine, pity!

$18 car rental for 2 weeks?! That would get me to buy a plane ticket to Spain, too. I’ve actually never thought about visiting Spain in the winter before, but after reading your post, it sounds like the perfect destination. Not many countries in Europe offer opportunities for skiing and swimming at the same time. Now you’ve made me start looking at flights and hotels in Spain for this winter…

Thanks, Diana, you’ll surely have fun if you decide to go!

I’ve been thinking of places that would be good to visit in the winter, and Spain sounds perfect! It’s definitely somewhere that’s been on my list. I’m going to Portugal in the spring, so I’ll be close, but not quite there haha. I’m not a skier, but I had no idea that Spain had so many mountain peaks! And I’m definitely going to check out Montserrat whenever I get to Barcelona

Yes, Maggie, Spain has many peaks and this country is so diverse. Portugal is incredibly beautiful too, we can’t wait to visit!

I think winter is the best time of the year to travel. I don’t like to step out of the house in scorching sun. Where I live is hot all year round.

We are like that too. We thought we loved heat and sun but learned throughout all our travels that winters can be so much fun too!

Hey, this is so timely! We are hoping to go in February. How in the world did you get your amazing rental deal? Also, did you need to have your international driver’s permit to drive there?

We found it on easyrentalcars. Mark just loves surfing through different deals so I need to give him a credit for finding this one in Spain! We did have our international permit with us but no one from the rental company asked for it, they told us American license was enough. Actually, in other European countries, including Scandinavia and Balkans, we were never asked for international permit too. I guess they don’t care 🙂

This is just what I needed to see. My boyfriend and I are planning to live in Spain for a while but I was super worried about winter – I know it’s one of the warmer climates but still…..I hate winter haha. But this has eased my mind a bit. It doesn’t sound at all bad!

Spain reminded us a lot about California. For the most part, winters are very mild and enjoyable. I think you’ll love it there!

It is so great to visit destinations like Spain during the off-peak season, besides some of those places has some really nice weather. I know I would love a 20c in the winter! All the place you visited looks so beautiful and peaceful. Trading the warm weather for some peace and enjoyment of a place doesn’t look so bad!

So true, Lyne!

Traveling offseason is certainly one of the best ways to save money. I would never have thought of Spain for winter, but it does make sense given the mild temperatures. So thanks for that tip. What a steal on the car rental – $18 for two weeks…a bargain! We are actually planning a trip to Costa Brava and the winter time might just be the perfect time to go. Gorgeous pictures 🙂

Thank you, Rosemary, and yes, Costa Brava in winter is way quieter, I’m sure you’ll love it!

Spain always looks beautiful! I have been to Barcelona only for two days for business meeting 🙁 So could not explore anything there. But since then Spain was left in my destination bucket list. Next time I will definitely plan for the Spain vacation & specially to the warmest places as don’t love winter much. Thanks for such a lovely post.

Thank you, Deepa, for your lovely comment! Spain is huge indeed and really has a lot to offer. We are eager to go back and explore more of this country too!

Thank you for including the weather conditions on a blog about Spain. The weather situation should be more important when traveling to anew country. But almost all may forget to study whether conditions before a trip. So there may be a chance to lost your entire trip ideas by a bad climate. Actually, I didn’t think the winter in Spain maybe this much beautiful. The images on the blog attract me much more than the words. Thank you.

Hi Dhanika, I am so glad to hear you found this post useful! Thank you for leaving this comment, it makes my heart sing. We absolutely fell in love with winter season in Spain and believe it is one of the best times of the year to visit! If you go, you won’t regret!

Hi Anya, could you please share with us more info about the car rental. Thanks

Hi Nas, Somehow, Spain has one of the lowest rates for car rentals in Europe, so it’s a great idea to explore this country by car. At least as long as you’re not planning to just stay in one of the major cities. In my experience, it is best to rent a car at the international airport in Madrid, Barcelona or Valencia. The site we personally used to rent in Spain and many other places is Discover Cars . They always have great deals. I suggest you check it out. Also, see if your credit card offers rental car insurance (for example, many cards in the US do.) This way you don’t need to purchase insurance from the rental supplier and you would probably get a much newer car. Although, you will still have to give them the deposit. Overall driving in Spain is easy and relaxing, especially in the countryside and small towns. I would avoid driving in the big cities (I really hated Valencia’s giant roundabouts.) There are many interstates with up to 130/km speed limit. Some tolls in Catalonia (paid in a booth) do not show on Google maps, so it may be difficult to avoid them. Free parking is sometimes limited. I always managed to find it (again, not in major cities) but had to walk for 10-15 minutes. I hope this helps a bit. Good luck with your trip!

Thank you for sharing your experience. I would prefer to drop off at different location. Plan the trip from Morocco and from south to north Spain. I will check the site if there any good RentCar deal. Thanks again

Hi Nas, Your idea sounds like fun! Let me know if you have any other questions

Hi Nas, I wanted to share this post with you. Mark has just written a detailed guide on car rental in Spain. It should answer all your questions. Take a look here .

We too spent three weeks in Spain in January and February. What a wonderful trip we had. We made Malaga our home base per say, rented a car and drove the whole southern area. Even did a day trip to Morocco. Can’t say enough about the wonderful trip we had. And yes very reasonable.

Thank you, Jean, for sharing! I haven’t even thought about going to Morocco for a day. We might do it too, we’ll be in Gibraltar in January.

Pretty! This has been an extremely wonderful article. Thank you for supplying this information.

Spain always looks beautiful! I have been to Barcelona only for two days for a business meeting ? So could not explore anything there. But since then Spain was left in my destination bucket list. Next time I will definitely plan for the Spain vacation & especially to the warmest places as don’t love winter much. Thanks for such a lovely post.

Really interesting and well written blog, I enjoyed reading it, please keep on writing blogs like this.

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Why you should visit Spain in winter

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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.

Read more Spain articles or get Europe travel inspiration

Quick picks: where to go in Spain in winter

Spain weather in december, why you should visit spain in december and january, winter holidays in spain, where to go in spain in winter, winter break in spain faqs.

• What to wear in Spain in winter

Tips for visiting Spain in Winter with a baby and Spain with toddler

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
• Save: Slow Suites Setas
• Splurge: Hotel Alfonso XIII
• Do: Alcázar & Cathedral tour
• Save: Palacio de Rojas Apartments
• Splurge: Only YOU Hotel Valencia
• 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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January in Spain: From Festive Celebrations to Winter Fun

When people consider traveling to Spain, they often think about beautiful sunny, hot days ideal for sipping on a cool drink, languishing on the beach, and enjoying warm evening strolls. However, the climate in Spain is more than continually sunny.

With its varied terrain that includes deserts, forests, mountains, and plains, it is even possible to find snow in Spain, particularly if you visit Spain in December or January.

If you’re not a fan of hot temperatures, you may find January is a great time to visit Spain, allowing you to explore your favorite areas without baking in the hot sun. So, here we’ll explore the topic of Spain in January in more detail.

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.

Spain in January: The Weather

Spain is the second largest country in Europe and has such varied terrain that the January weather can vary greatly. From milder winters in coastal and southern areas to colder temperatures in northern regions. This means that Spain’s climate can offer the ideal conditions for anyone. 

If you’re interested in skiing, the January weather in Spain provides ample powder in the mountainous regions, particularly in the Sierra Nevada mountains to the south, the Pyrenees in Catalonia, and the northern region of Asturias. These areas provide some excellent winter sports, including snowboarding, sledding, and skiing, with some amazing resorts that cater to various budgets. 

In these colder areas, there is also the opportunity to bundle up and explore the sights without the large crowds that you tend to see in Summer. Of course, there is also the possibility of calling into a bar or cafe for a warming drink or a shot of alcohol to ward off the cold. 

If you don’t particularly relish the cold and want to escape the colder temperatures back home, the southern regions tend to have milder winters. Although the temperatures down south are far cooler compared to summer, it can be a nice change compared to the cold weather in northern Europe. Additionally, you can still get some very nice days with warm winter sunshine that makes walks on the beach very appealing. 

It is important to remember that the winter weather in Spain will include more rainfall in almost every area. This can be a little surprising if you’ve previously only visited in summer. Depending on the area and current weather patterns, this could be anything from a brief, light shower that dissipates quickly to heavy rain setting in for the whole day and evening. So, you’ll need to remember to pack appropriate clothing. 

Spain in January: Top Spanish Cities to Explore

Unless you plan on enjoying some winter sports, you’re unlikely to be looking for the coldest cities in Spain . However, January in Spain can be a great time to explore some wonderful cities. You can beat the crowds since January is not a popular month for tourists and enjoy lower prices. 

While there are still festivals and attractions in winter, the rates for hotels, restaurants, and attraction tickets tend to be lower. This means that you can enjoy a different perspective of Spain compared to visiting in the summer months, particularly in several beautiful cities. These include:

1. Valencia

The milder winters are one of the reasons why many expats consider living in Valencia year-round. The January weather in Valencia is typically pleasant, with rare instances of rain. However, it can get humid and windy, so you do need to be prepared for this with a light jacket. 

Most days, there are pretty blue skies and sunshine that make it enjoyable to hit the beach or spend the day taking a citrus farm tour . Since the holiday season ends in Valencia on January 6th, you can get some great sale bargains if you’re interested in shopping. 

However, if you’re prepared to visit towards the end of January, you could experience the celebrations for San Vicente Mártir. This is Valencia’s Patron Saint, and the celebrations include a procession with statues carried around the city and music. There are also the San Vincente Ferrer celebrations, with a procession featuring music, horse-drawn carriages, and candy being thrown to the crowds. 

If you’re not a fan of high temperatures, January is one the best times to visit Granada , as the city typically experiences sweltering heat in summer. The average temperature in Granada in January is around 7ºC, making walking around and exploring the Alhambra and other sites pleasant. 

Although the Alhambra has winter opening hours between October and March , they still allow plenty of time to stroll through the gardens and various exhibits. 

Since it is less crowded in January, you can explore Granada on foot. You can stroll the hilly areas and quaint steep streets, with stops at some excellent restaurants, or take an authentic Spanish coffee to warm up. 

To fully explore the historic Albayzin neighborhood, consider staying at an authentic hotel, such as the Hotel Santa Isabel La Real .

The best time to visit Malaga is January if you still want to experience warm temperatures without the sweltering summer heat and crowds. You’ll still be able to enjoy average temperatures of 20ºC and the unique coastal vibe that is exclusive to the city.

You can visit the Picasso Museum in the city and stay in the nearby boutique hotel, the Hotel Larios Málaga . You can wander the harbor or lovely sandy beaches and enjoy food at some world-class restaurants. 

If you want to explore outside Malaga, you can enjoy the glamour of the nearby town, Puerto Banos, or the delightful whitewash villages such as Mijas or Frigiliana. 

Spain in January: Visit Smaller Towns

Of course, you don’t necessarily need to have a city break to enjoy Spain in January. There are a number of smaller towns that offer tranquility and distinct experiences. If you have previously only stayed in Spain at a summer beach resort, this can be a nice change of pace. If you’re looking to recharge your mental batteries after the hectic holiday season, you may want to consider the hidden charms of these smaller towns.

4. Júzcar 

Unlike the typical inland whitewash towns and villages, the buildings in Júzcar are all painted a brilliant blue. The reason for this was that the village was chosen as a location for filming the Los Pitufos or the Smurfs.

There are adventure sports , canyoning, hiking, and other ways that you can lose yourself in nature. You can even walk the tourist path of Route of Fray Leopoldo through fields of almond trees and other flora. 

There are also some great sights to visit, including the Church of Santa Catalina, the Old Tin Factory, and the Mycological Museum. 

5. Setenil de las Bodegas

Setentil de las Bodegas in Cadiz is quite literally under a rock. The traditional white-washed houses are built into the surrounding cliffs, making it a magical and charming place to visit.

If you’re prepared to climb the steep paths and roads, Setenil has some amazing viewpoints or miradors that can provide you with views of the entire village and the valley below. 

This unique characteristic is present in many homes and businesses, including the Bar La Escueva , where you can enjoy traditional Spanish dishes in the cozy cave-like setting. 

If you visit Senetil, it is worth taking time to visit the Roman Ruins of Acinipio, approximately a 10-minute drive from the village. You should check the opening times, but the ruins are a hidden gem that is free to visit. 

Alberca is a frozen-in-time medieval village located in Salamanca province. You can walk the village streets to experience an authentic settlement that has maintained its rights and customs. Almost all of the buildings date back to the 18th century.

Alberca has inspired great writers, including Cervantes citing the setting in Don Quixote or its use as a refuge for lovers by Lope de Vega . 

Another quirk of the village is that it is expected to see a pig walking the streets. A piglet is released and cared for by all the villagers in early summer, but if you’re visiting on January 17th (San Anton), you can see the full-grown pig being drawn as a prize in an annual raffle. 

Spain in January: Things To Do

As we’ve discussed, visiting Spain in January can be a different experience than holidaying in summer. However, there are plenty of indoor and outdoor activities that you can enjoy if you visit Spain in January. 

1. Skiing and Snowboarding

One of the most popular winter activities in Spain is skiing or snowboarding. If you’re looking for snow in Spain for your winter sports, your likely choice is the Sierra Nevada mountains . 

Since this is a popular skiing destination, you don’t need to own your own equipment, as there are plenty of equipment rental options. The team can assist you with equipment rental if you stay in a hotel such as the Vincci Selección Rumaykiyya . You’ll have direct access to a ski lift and a free transport service to Pradollano.

While skiing is not one of the most popular sports in Spain , if you’re keen to try winter sports, the powder in Spain is excellent. 

2. Exploring Gastronomy

Spain in January is the ideal time to explore the winter fare available across the various regions. There are a variety of dishes that can warm you up after a day of shopping, sightseeing, or skiing.

From Cocido madrileño, which includes a stew of potatoes, chickpeas, pork belly, and chorizo, to the superb seafood in Galicia, some fantastic winter warmer dishes exist. There are also options for vegetarian food in Spain , such as Sopa de Ajo (garlic soup) and Sopa de Lentejas (lentil soup.)

You could even take your gastronomy journey further with cooking classes in Madrid !

3. Cultural Immersion

A winter trip to Spain can also provide an opportunity to immerse yourself in Spanish culture. Most museums and tourist attractions are open throughout the year but may have reduced opening hours in January. However, since Spain typically receives fewer foreign visitors in winter, you can avoid the massive lines you may have seen in peak tourist season. 

There are some fantastic winter concerts and theater events. You could even enjoy traditional Spanish dances , such as the Flamenco shows in Barcelona . 

Most cities have shows and events that you can enjoy in winter, and even in smaller towns and villages, there are festivals for Saints’ Days that can provide the opportunity to see processions, traditional dress, and music. 

4. Wellness Retreats

Most of us start to feel a little weary in winter, but you can visit Spain to relax and recharge at various wellness retreats. Even if the weather outside is chilly, you can spend the day in a hot tub or receive a facial, massage, or wellness treatment. 

Many of the most popular wellness resorts are in southern Spain, meaning you can enjoy milder weather and pleasant winter sunshine. Whether you are interested in yoga, want to lose those excess Christmas pounds, or simply relax, there are spa towns with facilities to suit your needs. 

Spain in January: Festivals and Events

Spain is a Catholic country, so hundreds of festivals celebrate Saints’ Days, Patron Saints, and other religious holidays. Additionally, some other festivals and events celebrate the unique Spanish culture of each region and city. Some of the most popular events to attend in January include:

1. Three Kings Day

The Three Kings Day occurs at the Epiphany and represents when the three wise men visited Bethlehem to bring gifts to the Baby Jesus. In Spain, this is the biggest celebration for the Christmas period, where the people come out into the streets to participate in vibrant parades. 

Children of all ages line the streets to watch the parade and catch candy thrown by the wise men. You can also enjoy Rosca de Reyes, which is a traditional cake only enjoyed at this time of the year. 

If you want to see an extravagant Three Kings Day with the streets lined with lights, January is the best time to visit Madrid . It could also provide an answer to the question, is Barcelona worth visiting , if you were struggling to decide. 

2. Jarramplas Festival

The Jarramplas Festival is a unique and traditional event that takes place in Piornal, Caceres. Each year, a teenager is chosen to dress up as a demonic cattle thief. The costumed protagonist is chased through the streets and pelted with turnips!

Fortunately, unlike the legendary figure who was deterred by angry locals when he tried to steal animals, the festival character wears an outfit of different fabrics over carbon fiber protection to protect him from the turnip-toting crowd. 

If you visit the province Caceres in late January, you can visit Piornal and participate, flinging your own turnip at el Jarramplas.

3. San Sebastian Festival

If you enjoy festivals, then January is a great time to visit San Sebastian , as you can participate in one of the city’s most important celebrations. The Fiesta de San Sebastian takes place on January 20th, dating back to the 19th century to commemorate the city being set on fire by Napoleon’s army. 

Today, men and women dress in traditional costumes and parade the streets with loud drums for a full 24 hours. This is a phenomenal event that is well worth a visit. 

Spain in January: Costs and Planning

Although there is plenty to see, do, and experience in Spain in January, one of the greatest advantages is that it tends to be more budget-friendly. If you’ve ever looked at where to stay in Madrid , Barcelona, or other popular cities in peak season, you will likely see that even modest accommodation can be costly.

Many hotels, hostels, pensions, and resorts offer discounts for the low season, which includes January. Since there are fewer tourists at this time, you can get some great deals on your accommodation.

However, the cost savings for visiting in January go much further. In addition to airlines offering discounted flights in winter, many attractions also offer discounted rates. You can find that popular tourist attractions offer ticket price deals in the low season, so you can not only save the lines but also save money. 

If you are on a tighter budget, there are a few other things that you can do in your cost planning. These include:

• Always check for Menu del Dia: The Menu del Dia is the day’s menu, and many cafes and restaurants offer one. There are usually a couple of choices for your starter and main, but the deal also often includes a drink and bread. This can be an excellent way to not only try out the local cuisine but enjoy a great meal without breaking the bank.
• Use public transport: Public transport in Spain is reliable and very budget-friendly. You can usually find routes between cities and out to rural areas. There are also some nice deals. For example, Renfe, the national train network, has passes allowing you to travel for unlimited weekly or monthly trips. 
• Check for free entry: Across Spain, many tourist attractions offer free entry. This is often on certain days or times, but it can be a great way to visit attractions without paying the standard ticket price. For example, if you’re prepared to get up early, you can visit the Cordoba Cathedral for free for approximately one hour before the regular opening time. 

Spain in January: Travel Tips and Advisory

Of course, traveling to Spain in January is a little more unusual compared to the regular summer holidaymakers. So, there are a few travel tips and advice to ensure you have a great trip. 

• Layer for the weather: Since the weather can be more unpredictable in January, it is a good idea to layer up if you’re headed out for the day. While it may be cool in the morning, it can get hot later in the day, so you don’t want to overheat in thick clothing. Even if the day appears bright, carrying a light jacket in your bag can be a good idea.
• Respect local traditions: One of the main draws for visiting Spain in January is all of the local festivals and events, but you need to respect the traditions. For example, if the festival includes visiting a cathedral or church, you must wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. 
• Double-check travel: Schedules can vary between seasons, so double-checking is always worthwhile before you head out. While there is Uber in Spain , you don’t want to blow your budget on a lift back to your hotel if you find there is no bus or train available.

Wrapping Up: Spain in January

Spain in January is certainly worthwhile for any traveler. Whether you’re interested in winter sports or want to immerse yourself in Spanish culture, winter travel has many benefits. 

From a variety of festivals and specialty winter dishes to avoiding the lines at popular tourist events and getting discounted tickets, you can enjoy a fantastic trip that will provide a unique insight into this amazing country.

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Spain in January | Activities, Climate, Temperature, and More

Spain is a gorgeous country with wonderfully pleasant and sunny summers. However, just because January in Spain is considered the coldest time doesn’t mean you should only visit during the summer. Winter in Spain can have some beautiful sights and activities.

With different climates in different areas of Spain, you’ll be sure to find a place to settle during the cold month of January. And with several things to do to keep you warm, you won’t even notice the temperature outside. Let’s look at the climate and temperature in different areas of Spain during January.

Climate and Temperature in Spain

Spain is known as a sunny country. It has a recorded 3,000 hours of sun every year. Even though it has a reputation for being a hot country, the temperature in Spain is generally pretty mild.

Because of its large size, Spain has three different climates:

Along the northern coast of Spain, near the Cantabrian mountains, you’ll find a maritime climate. Cities like Cantabria and Galicia usually have mild winters and cool summers. There is frequent rainfall, and the weather is often cloudy.

Central Spain, known as the Meseta, has a more continental climate. The summers are dry, hot and sunny, and the winters are quite cold. You’ll experience rainfall mostly during spring and fall. There is also snowfall closer to the mountains that surround this area.

Closer to the southern part of Spain, there is a Mediterranean climate. Spain is generally known for having this type of climate. The winters are rainy, and the summers are hot and dry. The area around Murcia has an almost African climate, being quite hot in general. The average temperature in Spain truly differs from climate to climate.

Spain Weather in January

To find the perfect place for you to spend January in Spain, we have to discover different parts of Spain. Let’s take a look at the weather and climate in different areas and cities in Spain during January.

Weather in Southern Spain in January

As mentioned above, the southern part of Spain has a Mediterranean climate. Thus, even in January, the average temperatures are a little warmer than in the rest of Spain.

In places like Malaga and Costa del Sol, temperatures can reach highs of 64°F and lows of 45°F. The weather is enjoyable during the day. It’s warm enough to go sightseeing and do activities.

However, when the sun sets, it starts getting quite cold. You will see locals wearing thick coats all day long, so follow their lead and have something warm with you at all times.

The Coldest and Hottest Parts of Spain in January

The area of Castilla y León has been named the coldest part of Spain. In general, the highest average temperature is 46°F in January. Temperatures can also reach as low as 32°F. On January 7th, 2024, Spain recorded its lowest temperature since records began in Vega de Liordes, Castilla y León. The temperature reached -31°F.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Andalusia has been named the hottest part of Spain in January. With an average temperature of 59°F that never goes lower than around 40°F, Andalusia is the place to go if you don’t enjoy the cold. You can still have a beach holiday in Andalusia, even in January.

Barcelona, Spain | Weather in January

Located in Catalonia, the weather in Barcelona is pretty much on par with the rest of Spain. Averaging about 47°F, you might want to consider a warm jacket when exploring. It’s relatively cloudy, but you shouldn’t expect much rainfall, as Barcelona averages about three days of rain in January.

Instead of running away from the cold, take a ski trip to the mountains of Andorra. There are trips that go from Barcelona, and an entire weekend can go for only €260 ($278). This includes your return trip from Barcelona, meals, ski passes, and equipment.

If you want to stay in Barcelona, then be sure to celebrate Three Kings Day . The Cavalcada de Reis is a parade that happens every year on January 5th, and Catalans tend to give gifts on this day instead of Christmas.

Madrid, Spain | Weather in January

Madrid is quite cold during January, averaging a temperature of 41°F. You can expect it to be cloudy and rainy, with an average of 6 days of rainfall. However, there are still a lot of things to do.

Head to Sierra de Guadarrama for some winter sports. Since mountains surround Madrid, January is usually the perfect time for skiing and snowboarding. The slopes are about an hour away. However, you can get there easily using public transport.

And if you don’t feel like venturing too far, you have to visit the Royal Palace. No trip to Madrid is complete without visiting the official residence of the Spanish royal family . That would be like visiting London and not going to Buckingham Palace.

Mallorca, Spain | Weather in January

As one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is warmer than Barcelona and Madrid. Mallorca, an island in the Mediterranean, has an average temperature of 50°F in January. The weather is only partly cloudy most of the time. However, there is a moderate chance of rainfall.

During this time, be sure to visit the Alfabia estate. It was the residence of Behabet, a Muslim lord and former governor of Mallorca in the 13th century. As such, the estate boasts some of the most gorgeous gardens. You can also see the Raixa Finca, an old-time Moorish farmstead developed in the 18th century.

Seville, Spain | Weather in January

Sevilla, as it’s known in Spanish, is located within the province of Andalusia. This means that Seville does not do winter like the rest of Spain. With an average temperature of around 55°F, January in Seville is quite pleasant. However, the weather can be partly cloudy, and there’s a moderate chance of rainfall.

During January, some fun things to do in Seville include taking a tapas cooking class or maybe even a Flamenco dance class to stay warm. A tapas food and wine tour is also great for when you want to eat but not cook. You can spend a night with some sharks or dine with the fishes at the Seville Aquarium.

Final Thoughts on the Weather in January in Spain

With so many activities to try in Spain during January, we believe that you shouldn’t miss out on even the cold months. So on your next trip to Spain, be sure to go during January. You will most definitely enjoy the skiing opportunities and lovely tapas tours.

And you’ll have bragging rights to your friends because you got to go snowboarding in Madrid or spent a night with sharks in Seville. Be sure to pack your winter clothes and essentials for an amazing experience.

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Spain in January

• St Anthony Day occurs on the 17th of January all over Spain- but the biggest celebrations can be found in the town of Pollenca on the island of Mallorca . In Pollenca, you’ll find the Pi de Sant Antoni : a greased pole with a cock placed at the top, over which the youths fight. In the province of Castellón, bonfires are lit all around the town and local riders ride their horses through the fires in a beautiful spectacle at nightime.
• The  Drum Festival Spain usually takes place on January 20th in Donostia, San Sebastian , the jewel of Spain’s Basque Country. The streets of San Sebastian fill with many gastronomic societies from San Sebastian marching in uniform all bidding to outdo each other. It begins in Plaza de la Constitution and marches all the way to the Old City of San Sebastian. This Spanish drums festival is an intense noisy fiesta lasting 24 hours.

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18 epic places to visit in spain in winter.

Spain in winter? You might think that it doesn’t sound quite right. Spain’s one of the world’s most popular destinations, but most people consider it solely a summertime place. It’s a country with beautiful beaches and a laid back culture, but holidays should only take place there from May to September, right?

Wrong. Spain in winter is a great idea. The country has ski slopes – they aren’t as big as those found in the Alps, but they’re certainly ski-able, and there are even some locations where you can enjoy the snowy mountains and temperatures in the mid to late teens in the same day.

There are also relatively warm places in Spain in winter – especially along the south coast and the islands. The Baleriac Islands (Ibiza, Menorca, Majorca) are about the same temperature as mainland Spain during winter, but the Canary Islands, off the coast of Africa, have year-round warm temperatures.

Another perk to Spain in winter? No crowds! The country gets very busy during the summer tourism season, so visiting when everybody else isn’t is a blessing.

A lot of Spain is still on my bucket list – but I did go to Andalusía last Autumn, and Madrid in February, and started to realise how lovely visiting Spain in the off-season was. So, I thought I’d ask some fellow travel bloggers to share some of their favourite places to visit in Spain during the winter months.

If you’re thinking of going on a Spanish holiday in winter, here are some destinations that you should consider…

Places to visit in Spain in winter

I’ll start with the capital, and somewhere that I experienced first-hand last winter.

Madrid in winter is warmer than northern Europe – I walked around wearing a coat in February, but no extra winter woollies were needed and I often found myself too hot. That being said, winter isn’t its finest weather – it was a bit grey during my stay in the city. Nighttime lows are around 3°C and highs are up to 12°C.

However, many of Madrid’s attractions are deeper than surface level, and to me, it really didn’t matter that it was a little bit grey. A Madrid walking tour details the entire history of the city, which is fascinating, and I also recommend a Spanish inquisition tour to learn more about this brutal period of history.

There are plenty of museums to visit in Madrid, and if you do have a sunny day, Retiro Park is lovely for a stroll. And then, of course, Spanish tapas and wine can be enjoyed year-round!

Most attractions in Madrid can be enjoyed in the winter just as much as the summer – and you have the added benefit of it not being sweltering hot for sightseeing!

If you’re searching for a winter getaway in Europe, look no further than Barcelona! The city has very mild weather in winter with temperatures ranging between 8-15°C, which is perfect for sightseeing. Since rain is not common during the winter months and most of the tourist crowds have already left, it’s easy to see why Barcelona is one of the best places to visit in Spain in winter!

The Basilica de la Sagrada Familia is one of the most famous landmarks in Barcelona, designed by Antonio Gaudí. Although the basilica is still unfinished, it’s possible to visit it, but due to its popularity, you should buy a ticket well in advance (even in winter, this is one of the most popular attractions in Europe). You can find many other amazing Gaudí buildings in Barcelona, such as Casa Batlló, Casa Milá and Parc Güell. If you have time, it’s worth seeing them all!

No visit to Barcelona is complete without strolling on Las Ramblas and visiting the Gothic Quarter. Apart from the famous sights, the local food is also one of the highlights of Barcelona. Having a delicious paella or some tapas with a glass of sangria is one of the best ways you can finish your day! 3 days in Barcelona is enough to see the main sights, but you can easily spend weeks in the city without getting bored.

By Krisztina from She Wanders Abroad

One of the best places to visit in Spain during the cooler winter months is the city of Granada located in the Andalusía region of the country.

Perfect as a standalone city break or as part of a longer trip through Southern Spain , Granada experiences high temperatures of around 13°C in December to February and low temperatures of around 3°C. This means that it’s quite pleasant to be out and about during the day, particularly compared with other destinations in Spain! 

Granada is a great place to visit year-round with its unique tapas culture, the spectacular Alhambra complex, the cave houses and flamenco culture of Sacromonte and the incredibly interesting Moorish history, especially in the Albaicin – the historic Arab quarter. 

During the winter months, you can combine a trip to Granada with skiing or other winter sports in the nearby Sierra Nevada Mountains or enjoy some of the Christmas markets that take place in the city.

Visiting in winter also means that some of the popular attractions like the Alhambra are not as busy as during the summer months and you are able to enjoy them with fewer people around.

Don’t forget to check out some of the coolest hotels in Granada when you’re booking your trip!

By Michael from The World Was Here First

Seville is the sunny capital of Andalusía, and one of the best spots to enjoy winter in Spain. Seville is amongst the warmest cities in Spain, and even in Europe during winter, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C – 17°C. Christmas is still very much celebrated here – so it’s a great city to enjoy festive vibes if you want to escape the cold weather! 

When in Seville, don’t miss Plaza de España, an incredibly picturesque square. The beautiful bridges and ceramic tiles inside this square are absolutely captivating, and you can easily take hundreds of photos of the area. I recommend using some wide-angle lenses to get the best results – such as these  lenses for Sony A6400 .

During your time in Seville, don’t forget to visit the Royal Alcázar, the historic Seville Cathedral, and the Giralda Tower. You’ll also see lots of gorgeous festive lights in the streets surrounding these landmarks! The Feria del Belén de Sevilla is another place not to be missed — it’s the biggest Christmas market in town, and an excellent place to learn about the local culture and traditions. 

Lastly, if you visit in December , be sure to catch the magnificent Christmas concert performed by the Royal Orchestra of Seville and the Christmas parades in the city centre organized by the Royal Postmen (Reales Carteros)!

By Jiayi from The Diary of a Nomad

Sierra Nevada

The Sierra Nevada is one of the ultimate places for winter in Spain, especially if you like a snowy winter. Home to the most southerly ski slopes on the continent, it’s popular among travellers and locals from southern Spain who visit to spend the weekends on the skiing slopes. 

You’ll find some of the highest peaks in Spain here, and one ski lift goes almost to the top of the 2nd highest in the National Park (and 4th highest in Spain),  Pico de Veleta  (3398m). From there you can see over to Mulhacen, which is the highest peak in the Iberian Peninsula. 

The village of Sierra Nevada is the perfect winter paradise with snow, restaurants, and mesmerizing views. No matter where you stay in the village you can walk around. It’s also a great base for a day trip to Granada – which we’ve got down as another Spain in winter destination!

Average temperatures in the Sierra Nevada are between 3 and 7°C, and sometimes you can see people skiing in t-shirts on sunny days.

By Linn from Andalucia Hiking

While much of Europe freezes, Malaga in the Andalusía region is the ideal Spanish city to chase the sun. With average temperatures about 18-20°C from November to February, you’ll be able to avoid winter here! 

During the cold months, the sun warms up the city a lot and mitigates the temperature thanks to the sea breeze. Malaga gets over 300 days of sun per year, with not much rainfall. The coldest and relatively wettest months are January and February.

The warm weather makes Malaga perfect for a winter escape, but this isn’t the only appeal. In Spain, Christmas traditions are really important; Malaga city centre transforms over the festive period, with glam lights adorning all the streets. Enjoy the shopping in Calle Larios, the main street full of boutiques and cosy cafes. The Christmas markets in the city centre create the festive vibes and the concerts all around the squares entertain people while shopping. 

If you want to visit Malaga in winter, you’ll also be able to enjoy a fantastic New Year’s Eve celebration. In Spain, it is tradition to eat 12 grapes, one for each chime of the midnight bells, to bring good luck for the next year. There is no better place where to celebrate it than Plaza de la Constitución. 

Malaga could be the  best sun destination in Europe  for those who want to run away from the cold winter but stay in Europe. You can even enjoy the beaches and seaport over winter – or wait till March for an early swim in the Mediterranean Sea.  

By Alessia and Toti from Italian Trip Abroad

The lively town of Marbella in Southern Spain is the perfect place to enjoy a warm winter break. During these months, Marbella’s daily temperatures range from around 17 to 23°C. This weather is certainly warm enough for some of the many activities on offer in and around Marbella ! 

Golfing is highly popular, but there are excellent hiking trails near the town, as well as opportunities to sail, play tennis or enjoy relaxing walks along the beach. 

The nightlife is quieter than in the peak summer months, but each evening the charming 15th century Castilian Square in the heart of the Old Town still comes to life with local musicians and the chatter of other diners. The square, called Plaza de los Naranjos, is also the perfect place to catch early morning rays over fresh orange juice and hot churros. 

The Old Town, known in Spanish as Casco Antiguo , is made up of tiny laneways, and there’s some fantastic boutique shopping on offer. The buildings are all traditional Moorish architecture and many of covered in tumbling bougainvillaea.

Marbella is perfectly positioned to explore other areas in Andalusía too, from the white-washed villages in the hills to the Sierra Nevada mountain range. In fact, you could spend the morning skiing there, before heading back to Marbella for the afternoon to catch some rays! 

By Claire from Stoked to Travel

One of the best cities to visit during winter in Spain is the city of Cadiz, which has 300 sunny days a year on average. With temperatures staying above 10 degrees in winter (minimum of 10°C in January and maximum of 16-17 °C in all the other winter months),  Cadiz is a great place to get some winter sun.

Cadiz is a historical town, the oldest attested in Europe, born in the 8th century BC. However, its spirit is very young. The best place to experience the buzz of the town is in the fish market where, in the morning, you can go and buy fresh fish and seafood at very competitive prices. At lunchtime, the same fish is cooked and served at the tapas bars and restaurants adjacent to the market. This makes it one of the prime spots to not only enjoy probably the best fish dishes in Cadiz, but also to interact with the locals.

Whilst Christmas markets are not that popular in the south of Spain, it is worth visiting Cadiz in winter for the annual carnival, which is considered to be the second-best in the world after Rio. Held in the second half of February, the celebration lasts for a week. During this time the city’s streets are filled with performers, parades, excellent street food and enthralling firework displays. 

By Joanna from Andalucia in my Pocket

If you want to spend your winter in the Spanish sun, consider visiting Alicante.

This Mediterranean city nestled in the southeast of the Iberian Peninsula boasts 3,000 hours of sun each year with an average temperature rarely dropping below 18°C.

There are plenty of things to do in Alicante as the town is rich in history, has gorgeous sandy beaches to have a relaxing walk along the coastline, and get lost in its colourful streets.

The main attraction of Alicante is the Castle of Santa Barbara, which overlooks the sea and part of the town. Santa Cruz is a little neighbourhood adjoining the castle featuring white-coloured houses with colourful doors, balconies, and windows. You can also find many notable cathedrals, churches, and a couple of museums too.

Moreover, the perfect location of Alicante enables you to explore the charming little villages and towns in the Costa Blanca region, including the famous Benidorm, Altea, Villajoyosa, and Torrevieja, to name a few. Travelling to those towns is possible via a tram offering splendid views of the region.

By Baia from Red Fedora Diary

If you want to get into the festive spirit with a winter getaway but don’t fancy the freezing temperatures of places like Germany and Scandinavia, you might prefer a trip to the Spanish  city of Valencia .

Christmas markets and winter illuminations still light up the city, but with daytime temperatures averaging somewhere between 10-15°C, you won’t have to wrap up quite so much. Take time to enjoy festive treats like turrón and roscón de reyes (king’s cake) or while away the hours in one of the city’s chic tapas and wine bars.

When you’re not inside eating delicious dishes, explore Valencia City Hall, La Lonja de la Seda, the City of Arts and Science, and Valencia Cathedral, or head to the annual Christmas funfair and circus.

Valencia is also renowned for throwing some pretty spectacular festivals in winter including The Three Kings Parade. This is held on the 5th of January in the evening each year. There’s also the San Vincente Mártir Festival on the morning of the 22nd of January.

Another great thing about visiting Valencia in winter is that there is hardly any rainfall. So, while it’s worth packing an umbrella just in case, it’s unlikely you’ll need it as there’s only an average of 10mm of rainfall per month throughout the whole of winter!

By Chrysoula from Travel Passionate

Baqueira Beret

Spain may not automatically spring to mind when you think of skiing in Europe. However, Spain’s premier resort, Baqueira Beret, can hold its own against any of the big ski resorts in the French Alps – making it one of the best places to visit in Spain in winter. As an additional bonus, skiing in Baqueira Beret is so much cheaper than the Alps. The resort is snow sure, and they have snowmaking facilities as well. There are definitely more skiers than snowboarders which is a plus for the skiers!

Located in the Spanish Pyrenees, Baqueira Beret attracts a well-heeled crowd from Barcelona and Madrid – the Spanish royals have a chalet in the resort! There are a handful of family-friendly hotels entered around the main ski lift area. Spanish speakers mostly populate the resort, but everyone working in the bars, hotels, restaurants and schools will speak excellent English. 

The ski runs are best suited for intermediate skiing as there are only a handful of easy and advanced runs. Advanced skiers also have a wide range of heliski options. If you want some lessons, the Baqueira British ski school can provide them in English.

The hotels and the entire vibe is family-friendly. The Spanish generally sleep in in the mornings, so there is no jostling for space on the first ski runs like in the Alps. At our hotel, children’s dinner was set for 8pm and adult dining started at 10 pm. Needless to say, we were one of the earliest adult diners in the resort!

The nearest airport is either Barcelona or Toulouse in France. From Toulouse, the resort is an easy 2 hour drive into the Pyrenees mountains.

By Shobha from Just Go Places

San Sebastian

San Sebastian is an underrated place to visit in Spain during winter. The city is close to the French border and has some of the best scenery in the country! It also has some of the most beautiful weather during the winter months. 

Although it may not be as warm as Andalusía, the average temperature is a reasonable 13°C. When I visited in December 2016, I was treated to 20-degree weather, which more like a summer’s day than the middle of winter!

When you  visit San Sebastian , you’ll find there are lots of things to do. With high average temperatures, it’s worth checking out the beaches here. Yes, there are two! La Concha bay is the scenic beach with incredible views out into the Bay of Biscay, while Playa Zurriola is the surf beach. 

To get a fantastic vista of La Concha and the city as a whole, a hike to the top of Monte Igeldo is well worth it. You’ll also find a 19th-century amusement park at the top too! 

You can’t leave San Sebastian without trying the food here either. The city has the highest proportion of Michelin starred restaurants in the world! While they might be too expensive for most, the pintxos in most bars and cafes are reasonably priced and delicious!

By Tom from The Travelling Tom

Without the summer crowds, the island of Mallorca (Majorca), Spain is a perfect place to spend a stress-free winter holiday with family or friends. Palma, the capital city, comes alive with decorated streets and festivals during each winter holiday. Stroll Passeig del Born for the most impressive sights.  

The average winter temperatures hover around 16°C. While it’s cool in the winter months, the brilliant Mallorcan sunshine still makes it feel quite pleasant. You could rent a car to take in the magnificent natural beauty of the mountains and coastline – the beaches are especially spectacular when you have them all to yourself.

Base in Palma to be close to everything or rent a historic villa in one of the charming villages to feel like a local – you’ll have a lot more choice in the winter. Valldemosa, with flower boxes lining its cobbled streets, is a favourite. If you’re here at the end of winter, the beginning of Lent brings parades in many small villages with live music, festive dress, and street parties.

The almond trees that dot Mallorca start blooming at the end of January. Pink, white and rose blossoms turn the island into a stunning kaleidoscope of colour. And the traditional Mallorcan almond cake is to die for!

By Karen from Outdoor Adventure Sampler

Ibiza located off the eastern coast of mainland Spain in the  Balearic islands  group. It’s famous for being a party place, but there are plenty of other things to do here – especially during the winter!

Winter temperatures in Ibiza vary from averages of 16°C in January and February to 20°C in April and November – perfect weather for exploring! There are fewer tourists in Ibiza in winter, and you can take advantage of no crowds to experience the traditional Ibizan culture.

Ibiza old town is a UNESCO world heritage site that includes the winding shopping streets of the old town and 16th-century walls built to protect Ibiza from pirates long ago. At the top of Dalt Vila, you’ll have panoramic views across Ibiza town towards Formentera island.

One of the best things to do in Ibiza during the winter is to take long walks along the beaches. During winter the sunbeds are removed, and the beach is flattened ready for the next tourist season. Locals come and walk their dogs along the beach – you can act like a local and join them!

The weather is still warm enough for a sit down to admire the views out to sea as well as the picturesque beaches. The best beach for a walk during winter is Cala Gracio although the beaches of Santa Eulalia and San Antonio are also wonderful.

By Sylvie from Travels with Eden

One of the best places to visit during winter in Spain is the island of Lanzarote in the Canary Islands. Renowned for its package tourism, the island is starting to change and is also beginning to attract adventurous travellers who venture there independently to gawk over the volcanic landscapes, mild weather, and delightful beaches.

Lanzarote is fantastic in winter, as it is the off-season but still somewhat warm.  The average temperature during winter hovers around 20°C and while the average rainy days for this time of year are few and far between, the weather passes over the island rapidly and can bring very short rain showers throughout the day for mere minutes at a time.

Almost everything is open during the winter months, with the exception of some of the restaurants that will take a month or two off to recharge for the peak season.

Some of the best things to do in  Lanzarote in winter are marvel at the volcanic, otherworldly landscapes of Timanfaya National Park, learn more about the island’s most famous resident (Cesar Manrique) and his life, and go to the Saborea Lanzarote Wine and Gastro Festival. You could also book a trip to nearby La Graciosa, the newest island in the Canaries!

There is something for everyone in Lanzarote and winter is the perfect time to experience it without the crowds and higher prices.

By Megan from Megan Starr

Tenerife in the Canary Islands is the ideal island destination for some winter sun. Tenerife has year-round sunshine with the temperature in winter staying around 20°C during the day. At night, the temperature drops to around 15°C, so you may need a light jacket especially by the coast.

Tenerife has many exciting things to do – it’s not all about the yellow and black sand beaches, even though they are spectacular!  You can find tours for whale watching, jeep tours of Mount Teide, snorkelling with turtles or even scuba diving at one of the many dive sites on Tenerife . One awesome activity that requires pre-planning is getting the cable car to the summit of Mount Teide. This requires a permit as they only allow so many visitors per year.

Options for eating out are extensive and you can find restaurants to suit any taste, from traditional Spanish to Italian, Chinese and English cuisine. Many local restaurants offer a menu del dia which is excellent value for money. It includes three courses with tasty local dishes like tapas and paella, and some even include a free glass of wine.

The best way to get around on Tenerife is to rent a car as taxis can be expensive. Having your own wheels is a great way to see the island and its quaint mountainside villages.

By Steph and Lewis from Book It Let’s Go!

La Gomera is the second smallest Canary Island and is also named the island of the eternal spring. The temperatures are mild year-round, varying between 25C in August and 20C in January.

The winter months on La Gomera know lots of sunny days, however, when temperatures can easily rise to 23C. It’s lovely and mild, the perfect climate for an active day out and a long Spanish lunch on a terrace overlooking the sea. Another reason why La Gomera is such a great destination is that there’s no real mass tourism, the towns are authentic and quaint, the nature is stunning and the beaches are rugged and relaxed.

La Gomera is the perfect holiday destination for nature lovers as the island is home to the Garajonay national park, which is on the UNESCO World Heritage list and hosts the oldest natural forests in the world. When you see all the amazing flowers in full bloom, even in December and January, you’ll understand why La Gomera is called the island of the eternal spring. Don’t forget to visit the island’s capital, San Sebastian, with its authentic restaurants, quaint streets and lovely little church. Or drive to Valle Gran Rey for some fantastic mountain and sea views.

By Esther from Vakantie Karpathos

Gran Canaria

Gran Canaria is one of the seven main Canary Islands that are part of Spain, located in the Atlantic Ocean 840 miles off mainland Europe and only 62 miles off African Coast. Due to its proximity to the tropics, the island enjoys more than 320 sunny days, so  Gran Canaria is a great choice of destination all through the year . 

When most of Europe freezes in winter, Gran Canaria becomes a saviour for holidaymakers. The temperature of Gran Canaria in winter is still up an average of 22 degrees!

Gran Canaria is a miniature continent in itself. Picture yourself in Gran Canaria, and you can contemplate desert-style sand dunes, volcanic landscapes, whitewashed villages, stunning mountains and cliffs, dense forests and not to forget their azure blue flag beaches. 

One of the best attractions in Gran Canaria is the famous Maspalomas dunes. Also, catch a glimpse of sunset near Faro de Maspalomas, a 19th century lighthouse and a distinctive landmark that sits next to the sand dunes. 

Winter is a great time for hiking in Gran Canaria – one of the best spots that you can hike to is perhaps Roque Nublo. There’s also the photogenic Puerto de Morgan, and the mountain village of Fataga!

By Anuradha from Country Hopping Couple

Whether you want to laze on beaches or go for a ski, there’s something for everyone in Spain in winter! These destinations are all fairly easy to reach from airports in Europe. Don’t wait for summer to travel Spain – winter in Spain is just as incredible!

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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

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• Spain Weather in January: Travel Tips for First-Timers

Spain's weather is cool to mild in January, with generally dry weather. For visitors we suggest visiting Madrid, Barcelona, Seville and Malaga. Read on to find out more about travel and weather, including temperatures, rainfall, humidity, and tips for January.

Content Preview

• 1. Weather Overview
• 2. Best Places to Visit
• 3. Crowds and Costs
• 4. What to Wear

Spain Weather in January: Overview

• Temperature range: 7–14°C (44–57°F)
• Rainfall: 4 cm (2 inches)
• Rainy days: 6
• Sunshine hours/day: 6
• Humidity: around 72% (damp throughout Spain)

Spain's weather in January is cool to mild throughout the country, with temperatures averaging around the 10°C (50°F) mark in Madrid, and closer to 15°C (59°F) in Barcelona, Seville and Mallorca.

There is not much rain in January in Spain. An average of 6 days of rain yield around 4 cm (2 inches) of rainfall, and the days are mostly sunny, with around 6 hours of sunshine per day on average.

January Climate Comparison (Averages) for Spain's Top Tourism Areas

The best places to visit in spain in january.

January is cool to mild throughout Spain, and is particularly mild in the south where temperatures reach up to 16°C (61°F) on average. This makes January a great time of the year to escape the colder temperatures of western and northern Europe, as well as North America, and to do some sightseeing in Spain. 

We would recommend visiting Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, as well as Malaga in January. These cities are all full of incredible sights to see, restaurants to try, and activities to enjoy. With a mix of indoor and outdoor activities, you can ensure you enjoy the warmer days outdoors, while sticking to the indoors if you do happen to be there on a colder January day.

For visitors who are looking for a little help planning their trip to Spain in January, our experts can help you plan your ideal trip for you, taking the stress out of planning your vacation. Just reach out to let us know what you'd like to see, how long you are planning on staying in Spain, and what your requirements and needs are, and our experts can take it from there. Contact us to start planning your Spain trip .

1. Arrive in Madrid and Take a Walking Tour

Madrid is an incredible city, and with so much to do, you're probably best off going on a walking tour to try and see as much as possible in one day. There are lots of differing routes that can be put together, depending on whether you want to focus on the architecture, the history, the tapas and wine, or a combination of all of the above.

One of our Global Highlights' tour guides can take you through Madrid, just let us know what you'd like to see during your tour .

If you prefer to spend most of your day indoors, we would recommend visiting Prado National Museum for its immense art collection or the Royal Palace of Madrid, home to over 2,000 gilded rooms.

2. Marvel at Barcelona's La Safrada Familia

Barcelona is known world-wide for its art and architecture, and you absolutely must see the Sagrada Familia, the largest unfinished Catholic Church in the world. The church was designed by famous Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí, whose work you will see throughout Barcelona.

Construction of the Sagrada Familia started in 1882, and was interrupted numerous times for various reasons, including a lack of money, the Spanish Civil War, and also just the complicated intricacies of the building. There were predictions that the building would be finished in 2026, 100 years exactly after Gaudí's death, but this is now looking more likely to be closer to 2040 after delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The church's incredible gothic architecture attracts visitors from all over the world, and we recommend seeing the three grand façades depicting the Nativity, the Passion, and the Glory.

3. Enjoy Seville's Stunning Architecture

Seville is the largest city and capital of the autonomous region of Andalusia, and its location close to the both the Alboran Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, towards the south of Spain, means that it has had a different history when compared to Barcelona and Madrid. The architecture there demonstrates that beautifully.

For example, we would recommend visiting the beautiful Torre del Pro, or Tower of Gold, built in the 12th century as an observation tower to manage shipping over the Guadalquivir River, since this is where the Spanish colonies' gold entered Spain.

There is also El Real Alcázar, a fortress blending Christian influence and Muslim features to create a unique palace filled with bright tile work, gardens, plants, and flowers.

And of course, we recommend stopping off at the Plaza de España, one of the most detailed plazas in the world, blending Renaissance and Moorish Revival styles.

4. Visit the Roman Theater of Malaga and Eat Gambas al Pil-Pil

Malaga is home to some beautiful sights. One of these is the Roman Theater of Malaga, which still serves as one of the most important entertainment venues in the world even though some parts of it are in ruin today. The original structure is still standing, and throughout your exploration of this site you will be able to learn more about Spain's Roman past.

Malaga is also home to beautiful botanical gardens, home to around 25,000 species of plants. This is best visited before the hot summer months, when temperatures really soar, although the flowers on display do of course vary with the time of year.

Finish your day off with some traditional Malaga dishes such as Gambas al Pil-Pil (prawns flash-fried with fresh chillies, garlic, and paprika), or Carne en Salsa (a pork stew with a tomato base).

Crowds and Costs for Traveling in January

January is generally low season in Spain, with the exception of the very beginning of the year. After New Year's Eve, however, you will find that there are fewer crowds around Spain, and that accommodation is a little more affordable.

January 6 is Dia de los Reyes Magos, also known as Epiphany, when some smaller restaurants and shops are closed, as this is a commonly-celebrated holiday in Spain. The bigger cities usually also host parades the night before, which are interesting to watch. Our travel advisor or your hotel will be able to give you more specific details on your city's celebrations.

What to Wear in January

January is mild to cool, and we would recommend wearing a jacket or a coat. Layering up makes it easier to take off or put on an additional layer should you feel cold, but in general, you won't need too many winter layers. Jeans, a t-shirt, a jumper, and a coat should keep you warm enough.

For those planning on doing a lot of walking outside we do recommend a hat, scarf, and gloves to keep yourself warm, and just in case the temperatures drop slightly. Good footwear is also important to ensure you can continue walking to see everything you want to see in Spain.

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Best Time to Visit Spain - Full Month by Month Guide

Spain is consistently ranked one of the top travel destinations in the world, but if you're considering travelling there, you'll need to decide when is the best time to visit.

The thing is, your trip to Spain will look and feel completely different depending on which region you visit and what time of year you travel.

After all, Spain is the second largest country in Europe, with a wide diversity of climate and landscape - which means the weather can vary hugely from region to region.

It's also the second most mountainous European country after Switzerland.

In order for you to decide when to visit Spain, keep in mind each season's perks (lively festivals, sunny weather) and downfalls (crowds of tourists, hiked up hotel rates), as well as what it is you want to get out of your holiday.

The best time to visit Spain is either in late spring or early autumn - especially if you're going to Andalucia or the Mediterranean coastal areas. Northern Spain is at its peak in the summer months (July and August), and central Spain is best visited in October or May.

Winter weather isn't amazing anywhere in Spain, with some parts of the country even experiencing snow and ice.

Visiting Spain in winter is great, however, if you're not too bothered by drab weather and you're looking to save money, as hotel rates and restaurant prices tend to go down then.

Here's when you should visit Spain, depending on what you consider to be the most important part of your trip.

When to go to Spain if you want…

Warm weather.

Contrary to popular belief, not all of Spain is sunny and warm all year long. Likewise, summer is beautiful in parts of Spain, but it can be unbearably hot in other areas.

If your main reason for visiting Spain is to bask in the sunshine and warm weather, consider travelling to the beaches of Costa Brava in northeastern Spain during the summertime.

This region is easily accessible from Barcelona, and the average high is a pleasant 76° Fahrenheit (24° Celsius) in June and 80° F (27° C) in July and August.

Meanwhile, the super popular Mediterranean coast (home to Barcelona, Valencia and Malaga) has lovely weather in late spring and early autumn - think May-June and late September-October.

However, beware that it gets extremely hot in southern Spain at the height of summer - we're talking upwards of 100° F (37-40° C) in August.

A summertime phenomenon locals call El Terral - a hot, dry wind that blows over the Mediterranean coast like a hairdryer - only adds to the discomfort!

Cheap prices

September to late November and January to March are known as the 'shoulder seasons' in Spain, which means they're less popular times for tourists to visit.

This is great news for travellers who are trying to stay on a budget; Spain thrives on the tourism industry, so during shoulder season the majority of hotels and restaurants will slash their prices in order to attract more people.

Even the cost of flights to Spain is lower in the off-season, with November in particular seeing the cheapest prices.

So if you're trying to save money, time your trip so that it falls outside of the normal summer and winter holiday periods.

Lively events

If there's one thing Spain is famous for, it's the energy and spirit that seems to emanate from everyone and everywhere in the country.

Want to truly immerse yourself in the Spanish way of life? Then plan your Spanish trip to coincide with one of the countless festivals and events that take place year on year.

For something a little different, plan a trip to the town of Buñol in Valencia at the end of August to attend La Tomatina.

This wild and one-of-a-kind festival sees tens of thousands of people throwing tomatoes at each other, turning the town into one big pile of red pulp.

If you'd rather something a little less messy, consider going to Seville two weeks after the Semana Santa (Easter Holy Week).

This is when the city hosts the Feria de Abril, a week-long celebration featuring lots of dancing, drinking and eating interspersed with fireworks, traditional horse riding and bullfighting.

For more must-see Spanish festivals, read on!

Peace and quiet

Crowds not your thing? Then January - February is probably the best time for you to visit Spain.

Seeing as it's off-season, you won't find throngs of tourists invading some of the most popular destinations like Granada, Seville and Barcelona.

That means less queuing and an overall more authentically Spanish experience.

Unless you go to the Canary Islands, you probably won't be able to do any sunbathing in January and February.

But the weather in southern Spain is fairly dry and manageable at this time of year, making it the perfect place to visit for a winter break.

The best time to visit Spain: A month-by-month guide

If you hate crowds, don't mind iffy weather and would rather not spend lots of money, January is a fine time to visit Spain.

Since it's outside of peak tourist season, you'll likely get more bang for your buck no matter which region you go to, as hotel room rates and restaurant prices go down across the country after the Christmas holiday.

There's also a handful of festive events going on at this time of year, including Three Kings Day (Dia de los Reyes) on the 6th.

This holiday, which is also known as Epiphany, is Spain's version of Christmas day, with many families opening their gifts then rather than on 25 December.

Many cities around Spain including Madrid and Barcelona also host a boisterous Three Kings Festival, with people parading through the streets on the evening of the 5th and well into the next day,

Members of the local council will march through the city, throwing sweets into the crowds for children and adults to catch.

Despite the lack of beach weather, January is a merry - and relatively tourist-free - time to visit Spain.

The weather in Spain in February is much like it is in January - some degree of chilly.

Even in Andalucia, the highest temperature is about 60° F (16° C), and evenings can get down to the 40°s F.

That being said, there are plenty of good reasons to visit Spain in February, including some lively carnival parties in Cadiz, Madrid, and the Canary Islands to celebrate the beginning of Lent.

And if you're into your music, plan a February trip to the city of Jerez, which hosts a massive two-week-long flamenco festival every year starting in February and finishing in early March.

While the evenings are still cool in March, this is the month when things begin to warm up in Spain.

The sea may not be quite warm enough to swim in - even the Mediterranean - but walking on the beach should be pleasant around this time of year.

Plus, there are lots of cultural events and festivals to experience in March, including Valencia's unique Las Fallas festival in mid-March.

During this riotous week, the city is -quite literally - set ablaze with fireworks, gunpowder and bonfires, while live music and a healthy dose of satire give the festival a fun and humorous touch.

The main event sees hundreds of ninots (dolls made from papier-mache, wood or cardboard) set alight in a mass fire called La Cremà (the burning).

Keen to get stuck into the real-life culture and traditions of Spain? Then you could do much worse than Spain - and Valencia in particular - in March.

In our experience, April is one of the best months to visit Spain, for numerous reasons.

By April, the majority of mainland Spain's most popular beach towns - Marbella, Alicante, Malaga - are warm enough to do some sunbathing.

And things tend to be pretty sunny and dry in the Balearic Islands as well, with Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca ushering in the springtime.

Seville's Feria de Abril is enough of a reason to travel to Andalucia in April, as the city comes to life with traditional flamenco music and dancing.

Meanwhile, at the end of April, the town of Trujillo in Spain's Extremadura region hosts the Feria del Queso - a three-day-long festival celebrating all things cheese.

If you consider yourself a foodie - or a cheese fan, in particular - you'll be blown away by the sheer number of cheese varieties available to sample.

In terms of weather, May is yet another gorgeous month to visit Spain, with temps on the rise and the sun shining more and more.

Clear, sunny skies and warm days are the norm by now in Barcelona, with average temperatures reaching about 20°C (68°F).

It also roughly marks the beginning of bullfighting season in Spain, a centuries-old tradition that's either thrilling or horrifying, depending on your personal standpoint.

If bullfighting isn't your idea of a good time, there's plenty of other activities going on in May, including the Primavera Sound Festival in Barcelona, the San Isidro Festival in Madrid, and the WOMAD World Music Festival in Caceres.

Plus, since the official summer holiday hasn't begun yet, most destinations are less busy in May than they are in June, July and August.

Now that many schools have broken up for the summer holidays, expect flights, hotels and food in Spain to be pricier than before.

However, it's worth spending a bit more to take advantage of the sheer variety of fun things going on - not to mention the sublime weather you'll experience across the country.

By June, Madrid will already be pretty hot and dry. If you're visiting the capital then, consider making air conditioning a priority when looking for accommodation.

And if you're considering visiting Spain to do some surfing or kite-surfing, now is a fantastic time to go to Tarifa - one of the most popular destinations in the world for wind sports.

You'll enjoy balmy days, cool evenings, and the city's laid-back surfer lifestyle, before the masses of late-summer visitors pile in.

July is the absolute busiest month for most Spanish destinations, which makes it both a good and a bad time to visit.

On the plus side, all the restaurants, bars and hotels will be open and fully functioning, and you can expect a lively, fun-filled atmosphere across the country.

But visiting Spain in the high season also means you'll probably have to spend more on hotel rooms, and you can expect to hear lots of English wherever you go.

In any case, if you do decide to visit Spain in July, you'll definitely need to book your accommodation well in advance, before hotels fill up completely.

At the height of summer, some of Spain's most popular destinations are simply too hot to visit (Malaga, Granada and Seville - we're looking at you!)

Instead, head north to Galicia, Asturias and the Basque country, where the weather is pleasant (in the high-teens to mid-twenties Celsius) without being unbearable.

August is the perfect time to go on a road trip through northern Spain , sampling all the delicious pintxos you can manage along the way.

For a unique cultural experience, time your trip to coincide with the Semana Grande, which takes place in Bilbao and San Sebastian every August.

During this festival, you can expect to see traditional Basque sports, giant puppet dances, and a spectacular fireworks competition lighting up the night sky every evening.

With temps beginning to cool down again in September, Spain's fiery summer destinations like Madrid and Cordoba are no longer too hot to handle.

Now's your chance to take advantage of those amazing cities without feeling like your face is about to melt off!

September is also a great time to sample some of Spain's finest wines during the harvest season.

If you love wine or simply want to immerse yourself in the country's wine culture, book a trip to Logroño, Spain - the capital of the La Rioja region - in the third week of September.

This is when the San Mateo festival takes place - a week of celebrating the local wine harvest with music, festivities, and lots of drinking.

A highlight of this event is the crushing of the grapes, during which you're invited to squish Rioja grapes with your own feet.

Summer is well and truly over by October, which means we're back in shoulder season.

This is a lovely time to visit Andalucia, seeing as the weather is mild, the cities are a bit quieter, and the beaches are still relatively sunny.

You can even still sneak in some sunbathing if you head to Mallorca, where the temps are still in the mid-Twenties Celsius.

Sporty types might want to head to northern Spain in October, which marks the beginning of surf season.

Just make sure you wear a wetsuit!

If, on the other hand, you want to embrace the autumnal beauty of Spain, there are quite a few places to spot some stunning fall foliage.

One highlight is Irati Forest, situated on the northeastern border with France, which boasts some particularly vibrant hues around this time of year.

With its slow pace and refreshingly crisp weather, November is a fine time to go for a road trip around Andalucia , perhaps visiting some of the famous Pueblos Blancos (White Villages) in the hills.

While you're down there, make some time to visit Ronda, which Ernest Hemingway described as 'the most romantic town in Spain' and which animated film fans will recognise from 2017's Ferdinand .

You can also stop by the nearby Jerez, where they host the International Sherry Festival every November.

Fancy more of a city break than a full-blown holiday? Then book a trip to Madrid to see the autumn colours in El Retiro Park and witness the international Jazz Festival.

With Christmas on the horizon and festive spirits at an all-time high, December in Spain is almost as lively and exciting as summer.

Plus, thanks to the country's size and variety of climate, you can have any type of holiday you want in December - from ski trips to beach breaks, and everything in-between.

To get into the holiday spirit, head to Barcelona or Seville, where you'll find great Christmas markets.

Pay a visit to the city of Malaga and you'll see a seriously impressive display of fairy lights on the main street, which draws thousands of spectators to the city centre every evening in December to watch it become illuminated.

Meanwhile, December marks the beginning of ski season in Granada, with the snow-capped Sierra Nevada opening up to skiers and snowboarders alike.

And historic Zaragoza in northeast Spain is a great place to stay while visiting the nearby ski resorts in the Pyrenees.

If you've got a hankering for winter sun, book a trip to Gran Canaria, where the average December temperature hovers around the low 70s° F.

And wherever you decide to go, be prepared to take part in some Spanish New Year's Eve traditions, including eating 12 grapes at the stroke of midnight.

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Spain in January: Everything you need to know!

Spain is a country right from the children’s bedtime storybooks—a country of stone castles, snow-capped mountains, vast monuments, and sophisticated cities. It is the right place to enjoy the variations of activities, right from skiing and shopping to enjoying the sunny weather at the beach. Book Spain holiday package to visit because most of the tourist spots will be less crowded. You can take as much time as required to get that perfect picture clicked for your Instagram profile.

Spain Tour Package Starting @ ₹74,660

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

Weather in Spain in January

Being the second-largest country in Europe to visit , weather will vary region to region. Though it’s January so it is supposed to be cold and it can chill even the warmest region. Northern part of the country will be both cold and wet. Expect rain every other day, which makes carrying a jacket mandatory especially during nights. Warm days are possible in Malaga region but not enough to return home with a tan. Madrid’s winter is certainly unpredictable in January. Barcelona has a beach but expect no one there in the month of January. All in all, cold weather will dominate in this month, perfect to cuddle on your Spain honeymoon packages .

• Madrid : 52 F (11 C)/32 F (0 C)
• Barcelona: 55 F (13 C)/39 F (4 C)
• Malaga: 61 F (16 C)/45 F (7 C)

What to pack for Spain in January

You won’t need heavy winter gear in Spain, some cold-weather basics will do the trick. List items can include:

• Full/short sleeves shirts for layering
• Long sleeve tops
• A sweatshirt or cardigan
• A light jacket
• A lightweight scarf
• Jeans/cargo pants

Places to visit in Spain in January

• San Sebastián
• Costa del Sol

Granada has been continuously inhabited by humans for at least 2500 years. Among all the regions in southern Spain, Granada experiences a cold weather in January with an average temperature of 7 °C. Just a 45mins drive from the city you have mountain range of Sierra Nevada. It offers more than 100kms of trail for skiers and snowboarders. Albayzin area in the city of Granada has Arabic touch and is declared as World Heritage Site by UNESCO . Flamenco show is a must to catch in the city to get a glimpse of altogether different culture, music & dance. You can get regular buses from cities like Seville, Málaga, Madrid and Cordoba. Local buses also ply frequently in city between various tourist spots. But to experience the city in its raw form it is recommended to explore Granada on foot. City has several hilly areas where you may have to use stairways and steep streets. So it is advisable to explore on foot who can manage else take a bus.

Also read : 5 Best UNESCO World Heritage Sites to visit in Spain

2. San Sebastián

On January 20th one of the most important celebrations of the city takes place, the traditional Fiesta de San Sebastián. The festival has its roots back to the 19th century when Napoleon’s army destroyed and set the entire city to fire. Men and women dressed in traditional costume take out a parade in the streets playing loud drums for continuously for 24hours. It is definitely a unique experience to witness this phenomenal parade. Don’t miss out if you are in the city on give date. If you are interested in marine life then you should definitely check out Aquarium Donostia-San Sebastian which houses over 200 marine species. An outstanding attraction of the aquarium is its 1.5 million litre water tank and the bull sharks that call it home.

Also read : 5 Most Beautiful Castles in Spain To Explore  

3. Costa del Sol

Enjoy the 20 degrees temperature in January here! Malaga is the capital of Costa del Sol and is one of the best cities for shopaholics in Spain. Costa del Sol stretches from Almeria to Tarifa. It caters to every individual be it children, couple or elderly. Calle Larios is the main street for shopping addicts. Costa del Sol is well known for its sandy beaches and year round sun. Sea might not be warm enough for a swim but the pleasant weather definitely permits you to explore the coast around. Take some time out to visit whitewash villages such as Frigiliana, Mijas or Ronda. For celebrity style glamour, head to the town of Puerto Banos. You can find million-dollar yachts. Hardbour is lined up with world class restaurants, cafes and bars offering cuisines from various parts of Spain as well the globe. Costa Natura is Spain’s first naturalist village which is located on the only public nude beach. Don’t forget to carry your sunscreen !

Also read : Beautiful Villages in Mallorca

Events to attend in Spain in January

• International Winter Motorcycle Rally : City of Valladolid hosts this event every year in mid January which brings together thousands of folks with different nationalities with their bikes.
• International Tourism Fair : Travellers and those people working in Travel Industry don’t miss out this huge expo. This event brings more than 10,000 exhibitors under one roof.
• Jarramplas : Most people know about the La Tomatina, tomato based food fight. But very less people know about this food throwing festival, where turnips are used. This unique festival takes place in the city of Caceres. If La Tomatina interests you enough then you should definitely check out this one as well.
• A Celebration of Christian’s Victory over the Moors : On January 2, city of Granada celebrates the victory of Reconquista in 1492, when the expelled the Moors. Only on this day of the year highest tower at the Alhambra is open to public.

FAQs on Spain in January

A: Spain is cool in January, with even some areas experiencing rain. Spain in January is a beautiful place to visit with your family and friends.

A: Don’t forget to try hearty winter food dishes such as cocido (stew) and caldo (broth).

A: You should pack layers, such as sweaters, a warm jacket, scarves, gloves, waterproof gear and comfy footwear.

A: You can explore Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Granada to enjoy Spain in January.

A: If you want a holiday with fewer crowds, then January is a good time to explore Spain. However, you may also face limited accessibility to some attractions or beaches due to off season.

Planning your Spain trip in January? Check out Spain holiday package for friends or Spain honeymoon trip for couples offered at Pickyourtrail and book your Spain trip!

Nishant Gurav

11 posts published., related itineraries.

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Visiting Barcelona in January

Crowd-free attractions, clement weather… and a second christmas.

Editor’s Choice

2. Gaudi’s Casa Batllo

4. Three Kings Parade

5. The Tourist Bus

6. Barcelona Aquarium

7. Create Your Own Cava

8. Montserrat, Tapas & Wine

9. Skiing Weekend

10. Sant Antoni Festival

Want Barcelona all to yourself? Then you’ve chosen the right time to visit! January offers a little window of respite from mass tourism, making it the perfect month for those who love culture but hate crowds. And naturally, being Catalonia, there are a fair few festivals and special events going on…

Why January?

Wondering if January is a good time to visit Barcelona? Though it isn’t the height of the tourist season, that arguably makes it an even better month in which to enjoy a trip to the Catalan capital.

Even without the beach, there are still more things to do and see than you can cover in a weekend

Even without the beach, there are still more things to do and see than you can cover in a weekend (you won’t be bored!), plus you get the added bonus of having fewer crowds at the city’s top attractions like La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell and the sensational Casa Batllo (a personal fave!). For much of the rest of year, the queues outside these sights resemble a rugby scrum.

If you plan on being particularly active as a tourist, then I’d recommend checking our in-depth comparison of the best tourist cards . The Barcelona Pass ( available via TicketBar ), for example, gets you into Sagrada Familia and Park Guell for free, and has tickets for the Bus Turistic built into the price too.

What’s the Weather Like in January?

First, let’s talk about what to expect weather-wise. The temperature in Barcelona in January averages 16 ºC (61 ºF) during the daytime, which goes down to 10 ºC (50 ºF) at nighttime. It’s not likely that it’ll rain during your stay, as the month averages just 5 rainy days per month in January. You’re highly unlikely to see snow, though you might see some frost at night on the hills surrounding the city.

In terms of what clothes to bring, a warm jacket, sweater and scarf will keep you nice and toasty, whilst a small hand umbrella for emergencies never hurts (you can always buy one a store though if it does rain). You shouldn’t need any specialist footwear, beyond good walking shoes. Oh, and don’t forget your sunglasses because the winter sun can be quite low and bright, and a little harsh on the eyes.

Festivals & Things To Do

So, now that you’ve got that squared away, let’s talk about something a bit more fun – the best things to do here in January. We’ll take you through our hand-picked choices to add to your travel itinerary, if you’re visiting this winter.

1. Make a New Year’s Splash (1st Jan)

2. Visit The Casa Batlló

BOOK CASA BATLLO TICKETS

Casa Batllo Night Tour

3. And The Rest of Gaudi’s Greats…

Save Money: Barcelona Tourist Cards

4. Greet The Three Kings (5th Jan)

5. Catch a Ride on the Bus Turistic

BOOK TOURIST BUS TICKETS

6. Find Nemo at the Barcelona Aquarium

BOOK AQUARIUM TICKETS

7. Create Your Own Cava!

RESERVE VIA EMAIL

8. Montserrat, Wine and Tapas!

BOOK MONTSERRAT, WINE & TAPAS

9. Take a Ski Trip to Andorra

10. See the Sant Antoni Neighbourhood Festival

11. Shop ’Til You Drop at the Rebajas

12. Visit the House of Needles

13. Discover Catalan art at the MNAC

BOOK MNAC TICKETS

14. Warm Up With Chocolate & Churros

More Winter Inspiration

Thinking of visiting Barcelona earlier or later on in the winter? Then check out our complete guide on what to do in the city during December and weather and festivals in February .

And be sure to check out our suggestions for cool, fun and unusual things to do year-round .

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What To Do in February

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Weather in Spain in January (2025): The Ultimate Guide

The weather in Spain in January offers a pretty diverse weather experience, quite unlike any other month of the year. From the crisp mountain air of the Pyrenees to the gentle sea breezes in the Costa del Sol, the country is a tapestry of climatic variations.

Now, you might be wondering – what exactly should you pack for such a varied weather pattern? Well, as someone who lives in Spain, I’ve experienced first-hand the surprise and beauty January weather brings.

Whether you’re planning to wander through the historic streets of Seville or brace the snowy trails of Sierra Nevada, knowing what to expect in advance is definitely a good thing. And I’m here to share those insider tips that’ll ensure you’re perfectly prepared, come rain or shine.

Table of Contents

Weather in Spain in January

January in Spain is the heart of winter, but the weather varies depending on where you are. The temperatures are generally cool, with northern areas experiencing colder conditions compared to the south. You’ll find that most days are sunny, yet there’s also a chance of rain.

In the coastal regions like the Costa del Sol and the Canary Islands , you can enjoy milder weather, with average temperatures around 14°C (57°F) . If you’re in the inland areas or cities like Madrid , expect cooler temperatures averaging 6°C (43°F) .

Northern Spain, particularly the mountainous regions, has the coldest conditions, which can dip below freezing.

January isn’t the wettest month, but you should be prepared for some rainfall. On average, Spain gets about 30ml (1.18 inches) of rain in January , with the north receiving more precipitation compared to the drier south. Parts of the country will have clear and sunny skies, while others may be overcast.

Spain’s continental climate means that the interior experiences more extremes – hotter summers and colder winters – than the coastal areas . So, while you might need a heavy coat and perhaps an umbrella in central Spain, you could get by with lighter clothing in the coastal regions.

This make it the perfect time for you to pack both warm and cool-weather layers as you explore the diversity of Spain’s winter weather.

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 December .

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

How Hot Is Spain in January?

Spain experiences mild winter temperatures in January. You’ll find the daytime temperatures range quite a bit across the country. The average temperature hovers between 6°C (42.8°F) and 14°C (57.2°F) depending on whether you’re in the warmer southern part of the country or the chilly northern and mountainous regions.

In the southern regions, like Andalusia, you can expect warmer weather, with daytime highs around 16°C (60.8°F) , making outdoor activities comfortable. Coastal cities such as Malaga may even see days where the mercury rises to 18°C (64.4°F) .

In contrast, the central and northern parts of Spain are cooler – Madrid often sees daytime temperatures around 9°C (48.2°F) , and in the north, such as in Bilbao, averages are similar.

Nighttime in Spain during January can be quite chilly. Temperatures can dip to 2°C (35.6°F) or lower, especially in the interior and northern parts of the country. It’s not uncommon for mountainous areas to experience freezing conditions, with temperatures falling below 0°C (32°F).

Remember, these temperatures are just a guide – weather can vary. It’s always a good idea to check the forecast before you pack your bags, pack layers to stay comfortable, and don’t forget a warm coat for those cooler evenings.

Which Part of Spain Is Warmest in January?

The warmest part of Spain in January is typically the Canary Islands. Here, you’ll find more agreeable temperatures compared to mainland Spain. The average high in the Canaries hovers around 20°C (68°F), which is quite warm for European winter standards.

The southern parts of mainland Spain, specifically the Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz, experience milder weather as well, but not quite as warm as the Canaries. Cities like Málaga and Marbella on the southern coast have average January highs around 17°C (63°F), offering a comfortable climate during this time.

Here are the average January temperatures you can expect in the warmer Spanish regions:

• Canary Islands: Average high of 20°C (68°F) and average low of 15°C (59°F)
• Costa del Sol (e.g. Málaga): Average high of 17°C (63°F) and average low of 7°C (45°F)
• Costa de la Luz (e.g. Cádiz): Average high of 16°C (61°F) and average low of 8°C (46°F)

During January, the Canary Islands are quite dry with only minimal rainfall, usually less than 30 ml (1.18 inches). In contrast, Andalusia’s southern coastal areas may have slightly more rain, but it’s still considerably low compared to the rest of Spain.

Keep in mind that sea temperatures are cool, typically around 18°C (64°F), so swimming might not be as inviting unless you’re particularly hardy.

You’ll also want to pack a mix of clothing. During the day, light layers are adequate in the warmest areas, but nights can feel cool, necessitating a heavier jacket or coat.

It’s also handy to bring along some rain gear, even in the drier regions, just in case you encounter a shower.

Which Part of Spain Is Coldest in January?

In January, the coldest part of Spain is often the mountainous regions, particularly the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada. Here, temperatures can drop below 0°C (32°F), especially at higher altitudes. You’re likely to find snowy conditions, which are perfect for winter sports.

The Pyrenees:

• Location: North Spain, bordering France
• Average January temperatures: -2°C to 2°C (28°F to 36°F)
• Noteworthy: Popular for skiing and snowboarding

The Sierra Nevada:

• Location: Southern Spain, near Granada
• Average January temperatures: 0°C to 7°C (32°F to 45°F)
• Noteworthy: Home to the highest point in continental Spain, Mulhacén

These mountain ranges are significantly colder than other parts of Spain due to their high elevation. Low temperatures persist throughout January, sometimes accompanied by heavy snowfall, which adds to the freezing conditions.

When you’re planning a visit, it’s important to check weather reports and prepare warm clothing if you’re heading to these areas.

Aside from the mountainous regions, the interior of Spain also experiences cold weather, but not quite as severe. Northern cities like Burgos and Leon have some of the lowest temperatures in the country’s flatlands, so they tend to be chilly but with less extreme cold than in the mountains.

You should be ready for temperatures that might hover just above freezing during the day and dip lower at night.

It’s worth noting that while these areas are the coldest, they also offer beautiful winter landscapes. So, if you’re keen on experiencing Spain’s natural winter beauty and don’t mind braving the cold, they could be perfect for your travels.

Weather in Different Regions of Spain in January

Weather patterns in Spain during January can vary greatly depending on the region you’re in. Coastal areas tend to offer milder temperatures, while the interior experiences colder conditions.

Depending on your destination, you may need to pack for chilly and possibly wet weather, or you might enjoy more temperate conditions.

Weather in southern Spain in January

• Temperature: Southern Spain sees mild winters with average highs of 16°C (61°F) and lows can dip to 6°C (43°F).
• Average days of rainfall: Expect around 6 days of rain.
• Average amount of rainfall: The region receives about 70 ml (2.75 inches) of rain.
• Sea temperature: The sea averages about 16°C (61°F) in January.

Southern Spain’s winter is relatively mild with cooler evenings. You should consider bringing a jacket for the cooler nights if you’re traveling there.

Weather in northern Spain in January

• Temperature: The north can be quite cold with average highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows around 3°C (37°F).
• Average days of rainfall: January might have up to 14 days of rain.
• Average amount of rainfall: Rainfall averages 100 ml (3.94 inches).
• Sea temperature: Sea temperatures hover around 13°C (55°F).

Northern Spain is colder and wetter, so you’ll need to pack warm clothes and a waterproof jacket.

Weather in Barcelona in January

• Temperature: Barcelona sees daytime highs of about 14°C (57°F) and nighttime lows of 5°C (41°F).
• Average days of rainfall: There are usually 5 days of rain.
• Average amount of rainfall: You can expect 50 ml (1.97 inches) of rain.
• Sea temperature: The sea temperature is typically around 14°C (57°F).

Barcelona has a cool yet manageable climate in January, making it a good time to explore without the crowds.

Weather in the Canary Islands in January/

• Temperature: Expect warm temperatures with highs around 21°C (70°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F).
• Average days of rainfall: January typically has 3 days of rainfall.
• Average amount of rainfall: The islands receive around 25 ml (0.98 inches) of rain.
• Sea temperature: Sea temperatures are generally around 20°C (68°F).

The Canary Islands have a much warmer climate, suitable for those seeking a mild winter escape.

Weather in Mallorca in January

• Temperature: Average temperatures range from highs of 15°C (59°F) to lows of 4°C (39°F).
• Average amount of rainfall: Rainfall typically reaches 40 ml (1.57 inches).
• Sea temperature: Sea temperatures average at about 15°C (59°F).

Though it’s cool, Mallorca maintains a temperate climate during the winter months.

What’s your perfect destination for your dream trip to Spain?

Want to discover a city or live your island dreams?

Embrace the food scene or step through the pages of history?

Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!

Weather in Ibiza in January

• Temperature: Ibiza experiences highs of around 15°C (59°F) and lows close to 8°C (46°F).
• Average days of rainfall: About 5 days have rain.
• Average amount of rainfall : Rainfall averages 38 ml (1.5 inches).
• Sea temperature: The water is typically about 16°C (61°F).

Ibiza’s winter is cooler than its hot summers, but still pleasant compared to much of mainland Europe.

Weather in Madrid in January

• Temperature: Madrid has chilly winter days with highs of 10°C (50°F) and lows around 2°C (36°F).
• Average days of rainfall: You might see 7 days with rain.
• Average amount of rainfall: The rainfall averages at about 30 ml (1.18 inches).

In Madrid, you’re likely to experience crisp, cold days, so packing a warm coat is essential.

Weather in Tenerife in January

• Temperature: Tenerife enjoys mild weather with highs of 21°C (70°F) and lows of 15°C (59°F).
• Average days of rainfall: The island sees around 5 days of rain.
• Average amount of rainfall: Average rainfall is 35 ml (1.38 inches).
• Sea temperature: Average sea temperatures are about 20°C (68°F).

Tenerife, like the rest of the Canary Islands, offers a warm, inviting climate even in January.

Weather in Costa del Sol in January

• Temperature: Average highs reach 17°C (63°F) with lows of 8°C (46°F).
• Average days of rainfall: Expect around 7 days of rainfall.
• Average amount of rainfall: The area gets about 83 ml (3.27 inches) of rain.
• Sea temperature: The sea stays around 16°C (61°F).

The Costa del Sol is cooler in January but still comfortable compared to other parts of Europe.

Weather in Valencia in January

• Temperature: Valencia has average high temperatures of 16°C (61°F) and low temperatures of 7°C (45°F).
• Average days of rainfall: There’s potential for 4 days of rain.
• Average amount of rainfall: The region sees about 37 ml (1.46 inches) of rain.
• Sea temperature: The sea averages 14°C (57°F).

Valencia’s weather is fairly mild in January, which is great for those looking to avoid extreme cold.

Is January a Good Time to Visit Spain?

January can be a great time to visit Spain if you’re seeking a quieter travel experience, with weather that’s generally cool but still warmer than northern Europe. You’ll find fewer tourists and reduced crowds at major attractions. Costs for accommodation and flights may also be lower during this time.

In January, Spain experiences winter with cooler temperatures that vary widely by region. Northern areas can be quite cold, while the southern coast, like in Costa del Sol, often remains milder. Expect temperatures to range from 5°C (41°F) to 14°C (57°F), with colder evenings.

Despite the cold, January still hosts vibrant events such as the Three Kings Day parade you’ll find in basically every Spanish city and town this month.

Regarding tourism and crowds, low season equals fewer tourists. This means attractions are less crowded, so you’re in for a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere than the peak summer months.

Traveling around Spain is also easier in January due to fewer travelers. You’re more likely to find good deals on accommodation and flights, potentially making your trip more budget-friendly.

Which Part of Spain Is Best to Visit in January?

In January, southern Spain is often considered the best region to visit due to its milder climate. Cities like Seville and Malaga enjoy warmer temperatures compared to the north. You’ll find that the weather is more conducive to outdoor activities without the intense heat of the summer.

Seville tends to have pleasant days with average temperatures around 12°C (54°F). It’s known for its rich history and architecture, including the Alcazar Palace and the Seville Cathedral.

January is also the season for Seville’s famous orange trees to bear fruit, adding a vibrant touch to the city’s scenery.

Over in Malaga , on the southern coast, temperatures average around 13°C (55°F) in January. The Costa del Sol, where Malaga is located, usually provides sunny days which are ideal for strolling along the beaches or visiting historic sites, like the Alcazaba and the Roman Theatre.

Granada also deserves a mention – thanks to its unique location near the Sierra Nevada mountains, you can enjoy skiing opportunities at the resort of Pradollano, with temperatures in the city itself averaging 7°C (45°F).

Finally, the Balearic Islands experience mild winter temperatures around 10°C to 14°C (50°F to 57°F) and have fewer tourists, giving you a more relaxed atmosphere.

Is It Hot in Spain in January?

No, it’s not hot in Spain in January. You’ll find that it’s actually one of the coldest months. Temperatures vary by region, but they’re generally cool.

In the coastal areas like Barcelona or Valencia , you might experience mild temperatures averaging 13°C (55°F) during the day. It’s cooler at night, often dipping to about 4-6°C (39-43°F) .

Conversely, in the central and northern parts of Spain, such as Madrid or Bilbao , it’s colder with daytime highs around 6-11°C (43-52°F) and nighttime lows possibly dropping to slightly below freezing.

Expect more variable weather in the southern regions like Andalusia . Here daytime highs can be relatively warmer, with averages of 16°C (61°F) , which might seem quite pleasant if you’re accustomed to colder climates.

Rain isn’t uncommon, but the amount varies widely. You might see around 30 ml (1.18 inches) in Madrid compared to 85 ml (3.35 inches) in coastal areas. It’s wise to pack layers, a warm coat, and an umbrella, as you may encounter both brisk temperatures and rainfall during your visit.

Is It Cold in Spain in January?

January is one of the coldest months in Spain. You’ll find varying temperatures across the country, from chillier weather in the north to milder climates in the south. It’s important to pack accordingly if you’re planning a visit during this time.

In the northern regions such as Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country , temperatures can be quite low. You might experience conditions from 4°C (39°F) to 10°C (50°F) , with a higher likelihood of rain, averaging 100 ml (4 inches) per month.

Traveling to Madrid or Castilla-La Mancha , you’ll feel colder temperatures, sometimes dipping as low as 0°C (32°F) at night. Daytime highs hover around 10°C (50°F) , but with less precipitation than the north, typically around 30 ml (1.2 inches) .

Contrastingly, Andalusia and the Costa del Sol offer milder weather. Daytime averages sit at 16°C (61°F) , but nights can still get chilly, occasionally falling to 6°C (43°F) . Rainfall is also lower here, around 30 ml (1.2 inches) .

Finally, the Balearic Islands, including Majorca and Ibiza , maintain daytime averages of 14°C (57°F) , while the Canary Islands are warmer, generally around 20°C (68°F) , making them a cozy retreat during the European winter.

Remember, these temperatures are just averages – it could be warmer or cooler on the day of your visit. Pack layered clothing, a good coat, and perhaps an umbrella, so you’re prepared for Spain’s January weather.

What to Pack When Visiting Spain in January

When visiting Spain in January, you should prepare for cooler temperatures and the possibility of rain. You’ll want to pack a mix of warm clothing and waterproof items to stay comfortable.

Layering is key, as indoor spaces may be heated while outdoor socializing is popular.

• Warm Coat: Bring a warm, insulated coat that can protect against chilly winds.
• Layers: Include long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and cardigans that you can layer under the coat.
• Waterproof Jacket: Pack a light waterproof jacket for rainy days.
• Scarf, Gloves, and Hat: These will keep you warm during morning and evening outings.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: Spain’s cities are best explored on foot, and you might encounter wet streets.
• Umbrella: A compact, sturdy umbrella is handy for unexpected showers.
• Sunglasses: Sunny days are still common, so protect your eyes.
• Sunscreen: Even in January, the sun can be strong, especially in the south.
• Daypack: For carrying essentials as you explore, choose a water-resistant one.

Remember to check the weather forecast for the specific regions of Spain you’ll be visiting closer to your trip date, as conditions can change. Your packing list may adjust slightly depending on whether you’ll be staying along the coast, in large cities, or in the countryside.

Main Events in Spain in January

January in Spain is characterized by cooler temperatures and a host of traditional events and festivals. You’ll find towns and cities alive with vibrant parades and celebrations, especially considering January is when Spain celebrates some of its most colorful fiestas.

Here’s a look at some of the main events that take place across the country during this month.

• Three Kings Day Parade: On January 5th, cities across Spain host parades to celebrate Epiphany, known locally as ‘La Cabalgata de Reyes Magos’. Children delight in seeing the Three Wise Men parade through the streets.
• San Sebastián Day: January 20th is when the city of San Sebastián comes alive with the sound of drums for ‘La Tamborrada’. It’s a 24-hour drumming festival where everyone gets involved.
• Jarramplas: The town of Piornal hosts this festival on January 19-20, where a character known as the Jarramplas is pelted with turnips by locals.
• Fiesta de San Anton: Celebrating animals, this festival on January 17th involves the blessing of animals in many towns and huge bonfires in Saint Anthony’s honor.
• San Antonio Abad in Trigueros: An overnight pilgrimage takes place in Huelva province on the Saint’s feast day, involving bonfires and local traditions.
• Fiesta de San Vicente Mártir: Valencia honors its patron saint on January 22nd with religious ceremonies and processions.
• Moros y Cristianos in Bocairent: A reenactment of the Moors and Christians battles takes place in early February, but the preparations and smaller events start in late January.
• Fiestas de San Pablo in Zaragoza: From January 24th-29th, there are festivities including processions, dances, and music honoring St. Paul.
• Fiesta de Santo Tomás de Jornet : Held in Granada province, this festival includes a traditional ‘cabra’ dance unique to the region.
• Festival Internacional de Arte Sacro: This music festival held in Madrid spans from late January to early March, focusing on spiritual and religious music.
• Las Luminarias: In the small village of San Bartolomé de Pinares, horses are ridden through bonfires on the eve of Saint Anthony’s Day to purify and protect them for the coming year.

Where to Go in Spain in January

January in Spain is mild compared to much of Northern Europe. You’ll find varying climates across the region. Here’s a list of places you might consider visiting:

• Seville : With average temperatures around 12°C (54°F), Seville’s winter is relatively warm. You’ll enjoy fewer crowds and the beauty of the Andalusian capital without the intense summer heat.
• Granada : At the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, Granada sees colder winter weather, with averages of 6°C (43°F). It’s a great time to visit the Alhambra Palace without the usual tourist throngs.
• Madrid : Spain’s capital can be quite cold in January, around 6°C (43°F). It’s perfect for visiting museums like the Prado without waiting in long lines.
• Barcelona : Expect mild temperatures around 10°C (50°F). The city is less crowded, and you can admire Gaudí’s architecture in peace.
• Valencia : On the Mediterranean coast, expect temperatures about 11°C (52°F). It’s ideal for enjoying the city’s culture and architecture without the oppressive heat.
• Malaga : One of the warmest cities in January at about 13°C (55°F). You can explore historic sites and enjoy coastal walks with fewer tourists.
• The Canary Islands : Enjoy spring-like weather around 18°C (64°F). Perfect for beach-going and hiking.
• The Balearic Islands : Mild winter weather with temperatures around 11°C (52°F) makes for a pleasant off-season getaway.
• Cordoba : January temperatures hover around 10°C (50°F). Explore its historic center and the famous Mosque-Cathedral comfortably.
• Bilbao : Typically sees temperatures around 9°C (48°F). The cooler weather is great for experiencing Basque culture and cuisine.

Remember, while the south tends to be warmer, northern regions can be significantly cooler. Coastal areas generally offer milder weather compared to inland where it can be a good deal colder.

Rainfall isn’t heavy in January, but there’s more in the north than the south if you’re looking to stay dry. Pack a variety of clothing to suit each of these potential weather scenarios.

What to Do in Spain in January

January in Spain offers a variety of activities despite the cooler temperatures, which often hover around 7°C (45°F) to 10°C (50°F). You won’t find the beaches as inviting as in the summer, but Spain’s cultural offerings and indoor attractions remain plentiful.

You’ll find fewer crowds and can experience local festivals that are unique to this time of year.

Skiing in the Pyrenees or Sierra Nevada is a popular choice, as January is usually marked by good snow conditions. Spain’s rich history can be explored in its many museums, castles, and cathedrals, which tend to be less crowded.

For the adventurous, hiking in national parks offers a chance to enjoy nature with a different palette of colors.

Activities to Enjoy in Spain in January:

• Hit the Slopes: Ski or snowboard in top resorts, such as Baqueira-Beret and Sierra Nevada, taking advantage of the reliable snowfall.
• City Tours: Walk through historic cities like Madrid, Barcelona, or Granada to admire their winter charm without the usual tourist masses.
• Museum Visits: Explore renowned museums such as the Prado in Madrid or the Guggenheim in Bilbao, enjoying the art at a leisurely pace.
• Sample Traditional Cuisine: Savor seasonal dishes like cocido madrileño (Madrid stew), offering warmth and local flavor on cold days.
• Attend a Football Match: Experience the passion of Spanish football by attending a La Liga game.
• Spanish Cooking Classes: Learn to make traditional Spanish dishes like paella or churros in a local cooking class.
• Flamenco Shows: Watch authentic flamenco performances in Andalusian cities like Seville, known for this vibrant dance.
• Visit Historical Sites: Discover the Alhambra in Granada or the Great Mosque of Córdoba, with shorter lines in January.
• Festival Participation: Join in local January festivals, like the San Sebastian Festival in Palma or the Cabalgata de Reyes Magos.
• Spa Retreat: Indulge in a spa day in natural hot springs, such as those found in the town of Lanjarón.
• Wine Tasting: Tour the vineyards of La Rioja or Ribera del Duero and enjoy some of Spain’s finest wines.
• Take a Spanish Course: Benefit from quieter settings to study Spanish at one of the many language schools available.

Visiting Spain in January has its perks, including the chance to immerse yourself in Spanish culture with fewer distractions and a more authentic local experience. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or savoring the taste of Spanish winter cuisine, there’s plenty to keep you occupied on your trip.

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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Visiting Barcelona In January – The Perfect Trip You May Be Missing Out

The perfect trip is a fusion of perfect timing and an ideal location.

And Spain is a beautiful country to visit in January. So visiting Barcelona in January may just be the trip you have been missing out.

Read further as we talk about in detail why January is the best time to visit Barcelona, and of course, the beautiful sights you’ll be seeing in Barcelona.

January: Perfect Time In Visiting Barcelona

Barcelona city: the ideal location for your january trip, la sagrada familia: gaudi’s cathedral masterpiece, park güell: gaudi’s vibrant mosaic park, casa vicens: the first of gaudi, casa batlló: the house of bones, casa mila: the stone quarry, palau güell: creating space on limited land, port vell: the harbor shopping district , parc de la ciutadella: a citadel turned public park, museu picasso de barcelona: discover picasso’s early works, fundació joan miró: connecting art with nature, mnac: museu nacional d’art de catalunya, chocolate museum: chocolate for the cold weather, three kings parade (january 5), festa dels tres tombs (january 17), mercat de sant antoni: barcelona’s old market, passeig de gracia: high-end shopping street, frequently asked questions (faq), not visiting barcelona in january, pin it for later.

So why January? Simple, it’s because there are fewer tourists in January. You may wonder, “Well, what would that mean for me?”

First, since January is not the peak tourist season to visit the city of Barcelona, your trip expenses will be a lot cheaper. The saved money will give you leeway to spend more on things like food, better accommodation, activities, presents, and souvenirs. Or you can just use it for another trip that you are planning. Whatever it is you decide to use it on, all are win-win situations.

Second, since January has fewer tourists would mean more time and opportunity to get that Instagrammable photo you want. Well, who doesn’t want to have perfect pictures and share them on Instagram or Facebook, right? I know I want to.

Third, fewer tourists in January would mean no waiting lines for tickets and entrance to famous attractions, restaurants, shops, and other venues. No waiting lines mean more meaningful time spent on other things during your stay in Barcelona.

The fourth reason is it’s the season when there are plenty of mushrooms and chestnuts. So aside from plenty of mushroom dishes that you can enjoy, you can bring home lots of mushrooms and chestnuts for a cheap amount.

If you’re not convinced yet, there are plenty of discounted prices on surplus goods and things from Christmas. There are also skiing opportunities in nearby locations that you enjoy because of the cold weather in January.

A trip to the city of Barcelona in January is like a sumptuous feast for your eyes and for your mind . 

Every step, while sightseeing, will feel surreal due to the city’s architecture. Barcelona’s inspiring artistry and culture, found in its cityscapes, museums, and monuments, will deeply move you to pursue the arts.

Walking through Barcelona’s surreal cityscapes is like moving along modern records of the long Spanish history. This urban Gothic feeling is mainly due to the city’s architectural design from the Renaissance and Baroque periods. And we are enjoying it now thanks to the combined preservation efforts of passionate artists, local folks, and the local government, so be sure to savor that feeling once you are in Barcelona.

Since we are already talking about the cityscapes, Barcelona is home to the marvelous structures designed by one of the world’s most famous architects, Antoni Gaudi. Gaudi’s renowned works like the towering La Sagrada Familia and the captivating Park Guell are Barcelona’s top tourist spots to visit. Not only that, but you can also see the hotels or Casas that were designed by Gaudi.

Aside from Gaudi, Barcelona is also home to the works of other famous artists like Pablo Picasso, Joan Miro, and Joan Brossa. That is why Barcelona is home to inspiring museums that you can visit, like Museo Picasso, Fundacio Miro, and Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona.

Read further as we talk about in detail the attractions, museums, festivities, and marketplace to enjoy in the city of Barcelona in January.

Visiting Barcelona In January: Architectural Attractions To Visit

Most of Barcelona’s main tourist attractions are works by the architect Antoni Gaudi. Here we’ll talk about the best architectural attractions to visit during your January trip to Barcelona.

La Sagrada Familia is a masterpiece Cathedral by Antoni Gaudi and the most famous attraction of Barcelona. The cathedral is a captivating beauty on the outside and the inside. Its beauty is made complete by the impressions of its annual four million visitors from all parts of the world.

The exterior is made up of 3 facades with towering bell towers to memorialize moments of Christ’s life: birth, passion, and bliss. Symbols and designs fill each facade that guides guests into epiphany and insight into the life of Christ.

Step inside the cathedral and be smitten by Gaudi’s interior design. The design mimics nature as praise to the Creator, which Gaudi believes. You are in for a surprise light show when the sunlight strikes the mosaic panels. Truly awe-inspiring and mesmerizing.

Park Guell is one of the prominent landmarks of Barcelona. It is not surprising that it is well-known for its vibrant architectural mosaics combined with a green and lush environment park since it is one of the works of Antoni Gaudi. UNESCO named it a World Heritage Site in 1984.

You can find the mosaic park in the northern part of Carmel hill. Upon entering the urban park, a mosaic dragon fountain (named El Drac Salamander) on the stairway will immediately catch your attention due to its vibrant colors.

Climbing the stairway will lead you up towards the Mosaic Terrace and Nature Square. Travel to the left of Nature Square, you’ll find the colonnaded pathway, and to the right, you’ll find The Hypostyle Room, Asturia Gardens, and the Gaudi House.

Another one of Gaudi’s projects, Casa Vicens, was built initially as a residential house for Manuel Vicens. This was his first big architectural work after graduating. Currently, Casa Vicens is a museum that showcases Antoni Gaudi’s works. UNESCO declared it a World Heritage Site in 2005.

Casa Vicens, like the rest of Gaudi’s works, take great inspiration from nature. The fence has palm tree leaves and carnations in its design. The interior features ceilings and walls that have flowerlike and plantlike designs. The house exterior is heavily influenced by an exotic oriental design, very different from the classical architectural style of Gaudi’s time.

Casa Batlló was a house renovation work of Gaudi, which took place due to the Cerda plan. Batlló was the name of the project commissioner. You can find Casa Batlló in the heart of Barcelona, Passeig de Gracia.

Casa Batlló is also called “the house of bones” due to its bone-like facade. There are speculations that the story of Saint George slaying the dragon was the inspiration behind the facade. That’s mainly supported by the fact that the roof looks like dragon scales and the columns like bones.

Others speculate that the sea was the inspiration behind Casa Batlló’s facade. Depending on how you see it, the roof appears to be fish or shark scales while the columns are corals.

Take a look at our complete guide on visiting and getting tickets for Casa Batllò .

One of the famous works of Gaudi, Casa Milà, also has the name of La Pedrera or “the stone quarry.” The name comes from its unconventional design, similar to a stone quarry.

When the building was first created it was a subject of criticism in the neighborhood due to its design. It was only redeemed as a masterpiece a few years later. UNESCO declared Casa Milà a World Heritage Site in 1984.

To avoid the queues at the entrance, please check out our ultimate guide about Casa Mila tickets .

Palau Güell was a mansion designed by Gaudi for Eusebi Güell. This was one of Gaudi’s works, which showed his architectural genius and innovations in creating space with only a small land plot. UNESCO declared Palau Guell a World Heritage Site in 1984. Today, it is a museum that exhibits and teaches Gaudi’s innovative techniques on architecture through an audio guide.

Port Vell is the waterfront harbor of Barcelona and Catalonia. This vibrant harbor is a popular landmark in Barcelona, known for its scenic view of floating ships and yachts over the water combined with the modern design Maremàgnum shopping district. Enjoy Maremàgnum’s wide lineup of stores, restaurants, shops, bars, cafes, and cinemas. You can also take a walking tour of the Barcelona Aquarium which features unique Mediterranean aquatic species.

A citadel once stood here and was an object of hatred by the people of Catalan. Now, Ciutadella Park is a lush green environment suited to finding peace and relaxation. Aside from Ciutadella park’s greeneries, you can visit the Cascada Fountain, the Catalan Parliament, Geological Museum, Castell dels Tres Dragons, Zoological Museum, and Umbracle. They also hold concerts in the park, so be sure to check if there are any during your January trip.

Visiting Barcelona in January: Museums to Appreciate

Home to many great artists, Barcelona is rich in creative and inspiring works of art. Thankfully, Barcelona’s people recognized the artworks’ value and responded by preserving these precious works of art through museums. Here are some of the museums that you can visit during your stay in Barcelona in January.

Museu Picasso opened in 1963 and showcased the 4,251 works of Picasso’s formative years during his stay in Barcelona. The showcased works give a glimpse of what Picasso felt and perceived during his formative years in Barcelona. 

Located in Montjuïc, Fundació Joan Miró was built by Joan Miró himself with the goal of creating a place for contemporary art research. Like Gaudi, Joan Miró takes great inspiration from nature. Visiting this museum would give you time to contemplate the soul of nature and its relation to each one of us.

The MNAC is the national museum of the visual arts of Catalonia. It was first opened as an exposition to display medieval arts in 1929 and continued up to the present day. Exploring the museum will lead you to discover a great collection of artworks from different periods.

Your January trip to Barcelona will not be complete without a visit to the Chocolate Museum. The museum has educational tours on the history of chocolate and its impact on the global economy and culture. There are also activities that you can participate in, like chocolate tasting, making chocolate sculptures, and combining hot chocolate with wine or other alcohol.

Barcelona In January: Festivities To Enjoy

Every year, the Three Kings Parade is a tradition that is celebrated on January 5. It represents the time when the three kings traveled far to give Jesus gifts. Similarly, the three kings: Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar, will have a parade around the city that will start when the mayor of Barcelona hands the key of the city to the three kings. The three kings parade consists of colorful floats, loud music, Castellers, dancers, marching bands, fireworks, correfoc, and other volunteers needed to complete the street show. The day after the festival, January 6, is a holiday.

Patron Saint Antoni of Abat is celebrated on Festa Dels Tres Tombs every January 17. Saint Antoni Abat is known as the patron saint of all hooved animals, and the word Festa Dels Tres Tombs means “the feast of three tombs.” That’s why the festival is done through a procession of horses or a cavalcade that goes through a route around the city, leading to three tombs.

Visiting Barcelona in January: Food and Shopping

Your January visit to the city of Barcelona will not be complete without shopping for things like food, clothes, sweets, and other goods. So here are two of the shopping areas to look at:

The market of Sant Antoni or Saint Anthony is one of the oldest markets in Barcelona. Mercat de Sant Antoni was opened in 1882 and still retained its original appearance thanks to effective maintenance. The market inside sells various things like fruits, meat, vegetables, clothes, shoes, and other goods.

If you’re looking for international brands in the city of Barcelona , Passeig de Gracia is your go-to location. Passeig de Gracia has all the designer shops like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Prada, and Versace. Great cafes can also be found in this shopping street like Casa Museu Amatller.

The weather in Barcelona in January is chilly. The Barcelona weather temperature ranges from 10 to 16 degrees Celsius. Although there is no snow, make sure to bring your trusty winter boots, jacket, coat, and scarf to keep warm from the cold weather.

Yes, you should definitely visit Spain in January. All of the advantages we’ve talked about earlier apply to Spain as well.

Although Barcelona’s winter is a little cold, it’s still definitely worth it to visit Barcelona in January due to the cheaper travel cost, fewer tourists, and more meaningful vacation time that we’ve talked about in this article.

So book a Barcelona in January tour with us now!

Take a look at our guides for February , March , and April .

12 thoughts on “ Visiting Barcelona In January – The Perfect Trip You May Be Missing Out ”

Barcelona is one of my favorite cities in Europe, there is so much exciting to see and do. Now it was admittedly a few years since I last visited the city so it is much appreciated to read some interesting things to do in the city. I will definitely save your article in my “travel inspiration” list.

I’ve never been to Spain, and I’ve ALWAYS wanted to go to Barcelona. I had no clue that January was a good time to head there! The architecture is so amazing. Ah! This makes me want to book a trip STAT!!

January is usually great because the weather is starting to get a little warmer but still no crowds. I’d love to read about your adventures in Barcelona sometime in the future

I love Barcelona at any time of year. We lived in Europe and visited the city many times, during different season. I agree with you: January is great if you want to avoid the crowds and go on a shopping spree for branded clothing and apparel. Right after Christmas everything goes on sale. Besides the weather is almost always good there.

It is so good to hear you kept going back to Barcelona. Is there anywhere I can read about those adventures?

We have always wanted to head back to Spain in the winter months. Thanks for a quick view on what to expect in Barcelona in January. I am sure we would love the lower tourist numbers. And a bit cheaper rates too. We would love to return to see La Sagrada. We missed the inside on our last visit. And I can’t believe there is a Gaudi piece we missed. Casa Vicens will definitely be on our return plans. And hubby would definitely want to visit the Chocolate Museum. And have an adult hot chocolate drink.

I bet you will love the feel of the city in January. It gets a completely different feel when it is not as full.

I am going to Spain in July and I am really curious about how everything works there during COVID! I am thinking of moving to Barcelona but what are your thoughts on Madrid? Also, are all these tourist spots open? I want to know more and I hope you can give me tips!

We are actually working on a guide for July I’m going to make a note to share it here with you when it is done so you get a better idea.

I feel like Madrid is a great alternative if you are looking to move. The main difference for me is the different feel of both. Madrid has more of a cosmopolitan city, everything is faster while Barcelona even though it is a large city, it still has a provincial feel to it, making it more relaxed.

Barcelona is one of my favorite city in Europe as it is very vibrant and charming. I went there in March – an off shoulder season but in January it would be really great to visit this wonderful city. I agree as January is offpeak season then it would be great to see this place with lesser crowds and at our pace. I would really love to have the peace while walking along the gardens of Castell De Montjuïc

I have always had Barcelona in my list. Unfortunately, I could not visit it last year when I was backpacking in Europe even though it was on my list. The Cascada Fountain looks stunning and I would love to see it in real life. The architecture is so cool and beautiful out there. Adding these places to my list so I can cover them when I am at Barcelona.

Great tips! A visit to Spain is long due for me. I have friends living in Barcelona and Madrid, and I really hope to visit them soon. We love traveling off season, so this was a great post to me. Less crowds and cheaper prices attracts us but I also don’t like the heath on summer months.

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Where To Stay In Spain In January

Discover the top 7 destinations to stay in Spain in January. In the month where we have new resolutions, make travelling one of them. Find holiday rentals in Spain and attend a festive event, hit the January sales, ski in the Sierra Nevada or get some vitamin D in the Canary Islands. In these locations, you will find something for everyone, choose from cosmopolitan cities, to laid-back beach resorts.

San Sebastián

Canary islands, costa del sol.

Unlike other cities in southern Spain, Granada has a much colder climate in January with an average temperature of around 7 °C, but this makes it an excellent destination for a winter holiday in Spain. Just 31 km from Granada city, find the mountain range of Sierra Nevada . This one of the best ski resorts in Spain , and one that guarantees the most hours of sun in Europe. The Sierra Nevada offers more than 110 km of marked trails for skiers,  snowboarders and freestylers of all levels, as well as the longest ski season in Europe. 

Explore Granada itself - one of the most beautiful cities in Spain - and stroll through the labyrinth of streets in the Albayzín . This is the Arab quarter of the city and was declared a World Heritage Site by Unesco . Also stroll around the Barrio del Sacromonte , where gipsy and flamenco culture flows through its cobbled streets.

Make sure to visit Spain's second most famous monument, The Alhambra Palace,  during your holiday to Granada . Head to the top of the Albaicin neighbourhood at Mirador San Nicolas for a stunning panoramic view of the city, snow-capped Sierra Nevada and the Alhambra.  At the end of the day, treat yourself to a traditional Arab Bath at one of Granada's spas. 

January is an important month for the Donostiarras, the inhabitants of San Sebastian ("Donostia" in the Basque language). On January 20th, one of the most important celebrations of the city calendar is held, the traditional Fiesta de San Sebastián, dedicated to the patron saint of the city. The festival has its origins dating back to the early 19th century when the city was besieged and set on fire by Napoleon's troops.

When the French troops entered the city solemnly playing their drums, they crossed paths with the women who breathlessly carried water to extinguish the fires, looking at them in a way that did not please the the men of the city, who began to make fun of the soldiers "playing "the water barrels with spoons and wooden sticks to provoke them. It was the beginning of the Tamborrada , this constitutes the most spectacular moment of the Fiesta de San Sebastian: on January 20th, a parade of men and women in period costumes take to the streets of the city playing the drums for twenty-four consecutive hours. A unique and exciting parade that is worth experiencing at least once.  

The golden sandy beaches in San Sebastián are ideal for the summer, but there are still people that bathe in the winter, especially at the famous Playa de La Concha , even if the sand is covered with snow. Many locals here believe the benefits of a dip in the cold waters (to improve the immune system) outweigh the icy chill. Swimming in the sea in winter is one of San Sebastian traditions that continues to be upheld. If you are brave enough, join the locals and swim in the Atlantic at the most emblematic beach in northern Spain.

San Sebastián is one of the most important gastronomic capitals in Spain. Don't miss the opportunity to try authentic Basque dishes accompanied by a cider, as cider season begins in mid-January, just a week before La Tamborrada.

Start the year with a dose of vitamin D. The Canary Islands are one of the best places to visit Spain in January as they are fortunate to enjoy an average temperature of 20 degrees and 9 hours of sunshine a day. If you miss the feeling of the sun on your skin, rent a villa in the Canary Islands and explore places like César Manrique's Cactus Gardens located in Lanzarote or opt for some outdoor activities in Tenerife and visit the picturesque village of Masca.

Also in January, the Canary Islands Music Festival takes place, where orchestras from all over the world participate. This event kick starts the festival season in Europe. To find which island best suits your holiday preferences discover the differences between the Canary Islands .

The capital of Spain becomes a foodies paradise in January. Rent an apartment in Madrid and attend Madrid's Gastrofestival, an annual event that showcases the city's gastronomic offering and explores the link between the culinary arts and other artistic disciplines such as painting, literature, music, film, theatre, photography, design and fashion. Once you decide where to stay in Madrid , you will be able to find the Gastrofestival on every corner. Each neighbourhood has its own take on the festival in the bars, shops, museums and markets.

The chilly temperatures in Madrid January do not exceed 7 degrees, so this is the perfect time of the year to enjoy the most typical dish - Cocido Madrileño (Madrid stew) in a cosy location, sheltered from the cold. Explore the main tourist attractions in Madrid, stroll around Plaza Mayor, Puerta del Sol, Gran Vía, Cibeles and Puerta de Alcalá, and seek shelter in the city's best museums. 

Rent a holiday villa on the Costa del Sol , and enjoy average temperatures of 18 degrees in January. From Malaga city and all along the coast there is a range of diverse places to stay on the Costa del Sol . 

Malaga city - the capital of the Costa del Sol - is one of the best Spanish cities for shopping in Spain. January is the best time to take advantage of the sales in this trendy city. Stroll through the streets and find the most beautiful clothes and shoes with incredible discounts. Scour everything in vintage shops to designer boutiques. Calle Larios (Málaga's main shopping street) is a must for shopping addicts, with popular Spanish brands such as Massimo Dutti, Woman's Secret and Bimba y Lola. As you walk up Calle Larios, on the left-hand side is Calle Liborio García, there you will find Zara, and at the end of Liborio García street, you will arrive at Calle Nueva, another popular street. Don’t forget to visit one of the shopping centres in Malaga for even more choice. 

The Costa del Sol is synonymous with sandy beaches and year-round sun, but in January the sea might not be warm enough for swimming. However, the weather is pleasant enough for exploring the culture and landscapes of the region . Take some time to visit charming hilltop towns and white-washed villages such as Frigiliana , Mijas or Ronda. 

Córdoba is one of the most beautiful cities in Andalusia, with impressive historical monuments. One of the best times to visit Cordoba is in the winter, during the summer the heat can be unpleasant. Walk around the city and discover the iconic Mosque-Cathedral (Mezquita), the Roman Bridge, Synagogue, Jewish Quarter, and visit the Medina Azahara - ruins that was once a majestic city that Abd-al Rahman III ordered to be built just eight kilometres outside Córdoba city.

Rent an apartment in Córdoba when the city celebrates its medieval roots. This event takes place on the last weekend of January. The Calahorra Tower and its surroundings transform into an old Medieval Market with more than 200 craft stalls taking you back to the Middle Ages. Here you can buy different cheeses, cakes, honey, sausages and much more. The atmosphere is fantastic with a heady scent of spices and vibrant coloured bazaars teeming with people. For the little ones, fun is guaranteed with entertaining parades, birds of prey displays, magicians, games and juggling. Here you will also see old trade workshops represented by men and women dressed in Medieval clothing, weaving on old looms.

Enjoy one of the most popular festivals on the island, by   renting a holiday villa in Majorca   in January. Palma celebrates it's biggest day in honour of San Sebastián on the 20th. During the days leading up to this, there are concerts and bonfires that take place around the city. The night before the celebration, the festivities start with a huge bonfire in Plaza Mayor. A parade of giants and the legendary dragon Drac Na Coca liven up the streets of Palma and Celtic music is played by traditional "xeremiers".

Whether you are travelling as a family, as a couple, or looking for an active holiday, there are plenty of winter activities in Mallorca . Apart from the white sandy beaches (ideally for the summer), Majorca has many beautiful towns as well as stunning natural landscapes. In January there is often a light layer of snow in the mountains of Sierra de Tramontana, so bring some warm clothes if you are planning to be active and discover this amazing side of Majorca at this time of the year.

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The Best Places in Spain to Visit in Winter

Most people think of Spain and picture fine sandy beaches, sweltering cities, ice cold glasses of sangria and plates of paella by the coast. Yes, Spain is great in summer, but it’s also a fantastic country to visit in winter, with world-class museums and art galleries, top ski resorts and magnificent mountain peaks.

There’s nothing quite like sipping a hot cup of coffee, sitting in an atmospheric plaza, while admiring the snow-draped peaks above the Alhambra Palace. Granada can get very cold in winter, surrounded as it is by some of Spain’s highest mountains, but it’s also very beautiful. One big plus is that the sky is often clear and the sun is often shining, so even on the coldest of days you can find a spot to sit outside and warm up under the sun’s rays. Besides the obvious city attractions, such as the Alhambra Palace, the cathedral, the Moorish Albaicín district and the flamenco caves , Granada is just an hour’s drive from the Sierra Nevada, home to one of the best ski resorts in the country.

In the mountains just south of Madrid lies the historic Unesco World Heritage town of Toledo , recognised for its history as a City of Three Cultures with strong Islamic, Christian and Jewish tradition. With a dusting of snow on the surrounding mountains, the monuments look even more spectacular. Among the best are its imposing gothic cathedral, the Alcázar palace-fortress, the Synagogue of El Tránsito with its Museo Sefardí (Jewish Cultural Museum) and the museum of the artist El Greco, who lived and died in the city. Warm up at one of the cafes or bakeries and sample some of the marzipan figurines the town is famous for.

Barcelona is a perfect city all year round, with plenty to do when the chill of winter sets in. Packed with museums and art galleries, quirky shops, flamboyant architecture, flashy cocktail bars and innovative restaurants, this is one place you’ll never get bored. It will be cold, but sunny, so you’ll find plenty of things to do both indoors and out. Check out its amazing Modernista masterpieces by the likes of Gaudí and Domènech i Montaner, visit the art museums of Picasso and Miró and get lost among the streets of the Barrio Gótico . Don’t miss the amazing New Year’s spectacle at the Plaça d’Espanya or the magical Three Kings parade on the night of 5 January. In addition to city sights, you’ll also find a few good ski resorts within a two-hour drive from the centre, including La Molina and La Masella.

Canary Islands

If you’re after a bit of winter sun, you’ll find that the Canary Islands are definitely the warmest place in Spain during the winter season, with temperatures averaging around 17C (63F). Lying off the coast of Africa, they have a subtropical climate. Some days it may even be warm enough to swim in the outdoor pools or go to the beach, but if not, you’ll find plenty of interesting cities such as Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, and national parks such as Teide National Park in Tenerife, to explore. The island of Gran Canaria is also known for its excellent spa hotels .

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Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

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This Country Will See More Eclipses In A Decade Than Any Other

Spain will see three eclipses before the end of the decade, including a dramatic one in 2027 that will span Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

• Spain is set to witness 3 solar eclipses before the decade ends, starting with a total eclipse on 12 August 2026 in northern Spain.
• The 2026 eclipse will be visible in Greenland and Iceland rather than major Spanish cities like Madrid and Barcelona.
• The next total eclipse in Spain will be on 2 August 2027, with southern Spain and other regions of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East in the path.

North America just experienced a once-in-a-lifetime solar eclipse , with millions of people seeing it. But that's it for the United States as it won't experience another total solar eclipse until 23 August 2044 (and even then, it will only be seen in Montana, North Dakota, and South Dakota). That being said, there will be a remote solar eclipse over parts of Alaska in 2033 . So, what country will enjoy the most solar eclipses in the next decade?

According to Forbes, Spain will experience not one or two, but three eclipses before the end of the decade. The second eclipse will be by far the most dramatic and one of the best places to see it will be the tiny British Rock of Gibraltar (home to Europe's only population of wild macaques) .

Total Solar Eclipse 12 August 2026

The 2026 eclipse will come at dusk and will be better seen in northwestern spain as it goes towards iceland and greenland.

It turns out Spain won't have to wait too long to experience its solar eclipse. On 12 August 2026, northern Spain will experience a total eclipse. The eclipse will start over the Mediterranean Sea and head across northern Spain and then up into the North Atlantic, where it will be visible in Greenland and Iceland.

Unfortunately, this eclipse will not be visible in the major Spanish cities of Madrid or Barcelona.

While the Spanish city of Valencia will be in the path of the eclipse, it will miss out as the pre-sunset eclipse will occur 10 degrees above the west in northern Spain but only two degrees from Mallorca. This means the Spanish East Coast will miss out on it. For the best views, go to Galicia in northwest Spain and places like Santander, Bilbao, Gijon, and Burgos.

This will be the first total eclipse over continental Europe since 11 August 1990 and the first total solar eclipse over Spain since 30 August 1905 (which also followed a similar path across Spain).

This Will Be The First City To Experience The Solar Eclipse

Total solar eclipse 2 august 2027, the 2027 eclipse will be a major event for much of europe, north africa, and the middle east.

Time Magazine states that Spain only has to wait less than a year until it experiences the next total solar eclipse on the early morning of 2 August 2027 (the sun will be around 37 degrees or halfway up).

Southern Spain will be on the path of totality as totality commences over the eastern Atlantic Ocean and travels across the Strait of Gibraltar between Spain and Morocco, as well as across North Africa and the Middle East.

The partial eclipse will also cover more than 90% of the sun in parts of Ireland, Great Britain, Portugal, Italy, France, the Balkans, North Africa and bits of North America. This is an eclipse that will be witnessed by a very large portion of the populations of Europe, North Africa, and the Middle East.

The place with the maximum duration of totality will be around 37 miles southeast of Luxor in Egypt, where it will last 6 minutes and 22 seconds (Luxor is where visitors can see the famed Tomb of Tutankhamun ). The greatest totality in Spain will be around 4 minutes and 39 seconds on the south coast between Cadiz and Malaga (fortunately, these are also among the amazing Spanish cities to visit for the first time ).

Notable cities in the path of the totality include Cadiz and Malaga in southern Spain, Tangier in Morocco, Gibraltar, Oran in Algeria, Sfax in Tunisia, Luxor in Egypt, Jeddah and Mecca in Saudi Arabia, and Sana'a in Yemen.

'Flower Moon' & Lunar Eclipses: 10 Celestial Events To See This Year & Where To See Them

Annular solar eclipse 26 january 2028, at dusk, southern spain will see the 2028 eclipse that will cross south america.

Spain will end its three solar eclipse streak in three years with the 26 January 2028 annular solar eclipse (an annular eclipse is a partial eclipse). This eclipse will be much better seen over northern South America, but it will still be visible at around dusk in Spain.

The path of annularity will pass through Ecuador, Peru, and northern Brazil before going across the Atlantic and ending in Spain. A partial eclipse will also be visible over some of Central and South America and Western Europe.