Whether it’s winter sports or water sports you’re after, Spain in winter has something for everybody. Find the perfect winter city retreat, go on excursions up a mountain, or find an idyllic beach to relax on. In this guide to winter in Spain you’ll find information on the weather, costs, the best places to visit and things to do this winter.
Spain in winter: Climate
If you visit Spain during the winter, you’ll see that it’s a country with a diverse climate. From the wet north and mild south to the scorching heat of the islands, Spain has temperatures suitable for everyone.
Weather in mainland Spain
The climate varies dramatically throughout the mainland, depending on which part of the country you visit. So much so that you can choose between beach holidays or skiing trips.
Winter temperatures in Spain’s northern regions, like Bilbao, are a maximum of about 13°C during the day, with approximately 13 days of rainfall per month. Compare that to Malaga in the south of the country, where you can get a toasty 18°C of daytime temperatures and only an average of five days of rainfall, and you’ve got quite the difference.
In Mediterranean cities, such as Barcelona, temperatures are approximately 15°C during the day, with about three days of rainfall per month. In contrast, the centre of the country, such as Madrid, gets rather chilly, at about 10°C and five days of rainfall.
The two main mountainous regions of Spain, where skiing is popular, are much colder, though. The temperatures in the Sierra Nevada in Andalusia range between -7°C and 3°C, whilst the Spanish Pyrenees are slightly warmer at -5°C to 5°C.
Weather on Spanish islands – the warmest places to go
If you want to spend your winter in Spain, you should consider the Balearic or Canary Islands, which tend to have a warmer climate than much of the mainland. The Balearic Islands in the Mediterranean, which include Ibiza, Menorca and Mallorca, tend to average a temperate 15°C, with nighttime temperatures only a few degrees cooler. There are about five days of rainfall a month.
Further south in the Canary Islands is where you’ll really start to feel the heat. It’s one of the most popular places to go to in Spain in January, with temperatures often reaching 21°C. With lows of about 15°C and an average of just four days of rain, it’s easy to see why these islands are so popular.
Head to the seaside and check out our list of coastal villages in Spain.
Spain in winter: 4 must-visit destinations
Spain has a range of magical destinations, not least during the winter months. Find out our top tips for where to go and what to do below.
Tenerife
If you’re looking for where to visit in Spain during the winter, Tenerife should be high on your list. Boasting a warm climate, minimal rainfall and superb family facilities, it’s the perfect place to enjoy an escape from Northern Europe’s cold temperatures.
Spend the day soaking up the sun on Playa Del Duque, a white sandy beach on the western tip of Costa Adeje. Head to Siam Park, one of the best water parks on the island, and enjoy a range of fantastic slides and rides suitable for all the family. Or go on an excursion up Mount Teide volcano for stunning views across the island.
Madrid
The country’s capital is a great place to visit in Spain in Winter. However, it’s also one of the coldest places in Spain at this time of year. Thanks to its altitude of 657 metres above sea level and its mountainous surroundings, Madrid gets much colder than other cities in the country. The air tends to be dry, though, which prevents temperatures from getting even colder.
Madrid is generally geared up well for winter, and there are some great bars and restaurants to visit. Check out the Las Cuevas de Sesamo, an underground sangria bar, or Casa Botin, the oldest restaurant in Madrid. For entertainment, you can peruse one of the indoor markets like Mercado San Miguel or head to one of the city’s world-famous museums like the Prado. Ski and snowboard lovers will be pleased to know that they can hit the slopes a mere 1-hour drive from the city centre at Puerto de Navacerrada.
Barcelona
Barcelona is another iconic city in Spain. A great place in the summer, it’s also considered one of the best places to visit in Spain in the winter. The Mediterranean climate means you’ll experience warm and pleasant temperatures during your trip to this city. With a range of winter activities on offer, there’s always something to keep you occupied in Barcelona.
Barcelona is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with late-night cocktail bars like L’Astilla one of the go-to places in Vila de Gracia. For food, take a trip to Casa de Tapes Cañota, which offers Galician-inspired seafood of the highest calibre.
If the heavens open, you can head to Palau de la Musica Catalana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site concert venue. Alternatively, embrace the elements and take a 2-hour trip to Vall de Nuria ski resort, which has 11 slopes for you to hone your skills on.
Granada
Granada is certainly one of the colder cities in the south of Spain during the winter due to its location on the foothills of the Sierra Nevada.
It’s a magical city that offers something for everyone. If you want to take advantage of the great ski slopes nearby, you can take a trip to the Ski Resort of Sierra Nevada in about 40 minutes by car. Alternatively, if you want to stay warm back in the city, why not head to the top of the Mirador de San Nicolas, which offers unrivalled views of the city and snow-capped mountains.
Enjoy the Canary Islands more with things to do in Tenerife.
Spain in winter: things to do
There is a range of events that take place in Spain in winter. Whether you want to spend time with your family, or head out on a romantic getaway, there’s something for all.
Three Kings Parade
One of the biggest events in Spain takes place during the winter months, with families across the country celebrating the Three Kings Parade on the 5th of January. It involves colourful street parades, lots of gifts and tasty food. Whilst it’s a public holiday in Spain, many bars and restaurants remain open to take advantage of the large crowds of festival goers. It’s a must-see if you’re in the country, so don’t forget to add it to your itinerary.
New Year’s Eve
New Year’s Eve is another special occasion in Spain, with great festivities held across the country. Malaga is one of the top suggestions for seeing in the New Year. Not only is the temperature mild, but the city is also renowned for its amazing Christmas decorations and Lights Show. Another city in the south of Spain with soaring temperatures both on and off the stage is Seville, which is famous for its New Year’s Eve flamenco shows.
Find out about the country’s great cuisine and check out the best traditional food of Spain.
Spain in winter: How much does it cost?
Spain is an excellent place to visit during winter and offers great value for money. With ski resorts that cost less than those of surrounding countries, budget airlines aplenty and lots of accommodation options, it’s ideal for a budget holiday.
Ski resorts
Winter offers the perfect time to go skiing and snowboarding across Europe, and Spain is a hidden gem for ski resorts. Not only can you go skiing in the Pyrenees, Sierra Nevada and the mountainous resorts surrounding Madrid, but you can do so at a fraction of the cost of other European skiing heavyweights such as Switzerland and France. You can enjoy heavy snowfall, sunny skies and uncrowded slopes throughout the ski season, making Spain the ideal destination to hit the slopes.
Beach resorts
Spain is a popular destination for travellers looking for some winter sun. The Canary Islands are among the warmest places in Spain in winter, usually exceeding 20°C during the day. Winter is one of the best times of the year to visit the islands, with many budget airlines serving the destination. With accommodation at a lower capacity than during the summer months, you should be able to find a bargain, too.
Major cities
The major Spanish cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Seville are great to visit during the winter months. With the change of seasons having less of an impact on tourism in cities like Madrid and Barcelona, compared to coastal resorts, you’ll find that a winter city break in Spain is a great idea.
There are also numerous budget airlines operating several flights each week, so it’s never been easier to get some winter sun. Temperatures are still often mild during the day and, with sunny skies aplenty, you’ll be able to enjoy a range of outdoor activities too.
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