Natalie Many clients ask us about the best places to spend winter in Spain because they want mild winters, free from snow, wind, and cold. The average temperatures range between 10 and 20 degrees Celsius from December to February, while the Spanish island’s weather typically drops to around 5 degrees. If the sun is what you desire, go south rather than North. The Andalusia region is Spain’s hottest destination. However, this article explores other aspects, allowing readers to plan and experience the best of Spanish culture and Europe’s modern places.
Best Places to Spend Winter in Spain
1: Seville – Flamenco and Moorish-Christian architecture
Every article should feature Seville, a well-known city for its fascinating European history. Forget cold weather, because at the beginning and end of the year, i.e., March, street-side cafés put tables out again, and tasting samples in Tapas Bars should be on your list of things to do. Places to visit in Seville city include the 15th-century Seville Cathedral and the magnificent Alcazar. In addition, Seville city does an exceptional job of festivals, events, and Christmas markets. For mild weather, cultural richness, fewer tourists, and affordability, Seville is an ideal destination.
2: Beautiful Madrid – Capital of Spain
Take a trip to Madrid, Spain’s capital. Temperatures fall to around a cool 6 to 10 degrees Celsius; however, the chances of snow are 50/50. Regardless, Madrid remains an incredible European city with diversity that intrigues everyone, irrespective of age or nationality.
Stay or visit during December and ride the Christmas bus from Madrid’s Salamanca neighbourhood. For the best of snowy mountains and sun simultaneously, try Puerto de Nacacerrada ski resort in the beautiful Sierra de Guadarrama Mountain range. The old Plaza Mayor of Madrid hosts a Christmas market, and Segovia is another worthy destination. Madrid is one of the most popular destinations in Spain for foreign workers.
3: Barcelona – City Living
Barcelona, a place equally exquisite as Seville, provides several daytime activities alongside a vibrant nightlife and shopping scene worthy of Europe’s honour. Not only do holidaymakers avoid crowds in Barcelona, but they also delight in the blue skies and sunshine, as well as touring the historic Gothic Quarter and the Sagrada Familia site.
Barcelona is a top city, particularly magical when thinner crowds and affordable prices add to the lure. The city’s highlights include Sagrada Familia and Parque Güell, both designed by the iconic Gaudí. During December, nativity scenes appear across the city, including the Catalan Caganer. Hotels feature rooftop pools and saunas for luxury, and most attractions sit within walking distance. From Barcelona, residents can easily reach the Pyrenees for skiing.
4: Granada – Sun and Snow
Expect delicious Spanish tapas and stunning views worthy of gracing any Instagram account. Visit the Alhambra Palace, a renowned tourist attraction, and the Granada Cathedral. Curious explorers hire cars to discover small coastlines, fishing villages, nativity scenes, and Christmas fairs. Sierra Nevada, located near Granada, is a paradise for snow sports enthusiasts until the early days of Spring. Just a short distance from the Mediterranean coast, ski or snowboard while admiring sea views. For expats spending winter in Granada, life is about cultural richness and surprisingly mild weather, despite the inland location.
5: Canary Islands – Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria
We prefer the incredible, sunny Islands of Tenerife, Lanzarote, and Gran Canaria. With average highs of 20 degrees Celsius with little chance of rain, it is hard to believe a place features this perfect warm weather. Think 3,000 houses of sunshine a year to understand the beach lure and why foreigners own new holiday homes and live on the sunny Islands all year round.
Tenerife offers a variety of beach and snow activities. In Santa Cruz, Playa Teresitas boasts golden sand imported from the Caribbean for sun-filled holidays. Inland, Mount Teide rises dramatically as Spain’s highest peak, dusted with snow.
Arrecife, the capital of Lanzarote, is another hotspot for sun holidays. Volcanic landscapes and natural sites provide contrast to typical beach destinations. Arrecife is excellent for exploration, offering several attractions from lava caves to surf beaches, with an overall mild and sunny climate.
6: Costa del Sol – Coast of Sun
The picturesque and expansive Costa del Sol area is Europe’s top travel destination for new foreign home sales and tourism. Pleasant climate conditions attract foreigners to purchase a house and live here year-round. With a perfect 320 days of sunshine a year, average daytimes rank 18 degrees, whereas night times rarely fall below 5 degrees.
This top golfing region features beachside cafés, parks, vibrant shopping, and nightlife scenes. We recommend hiring a car to explore off-the-beaten-track towns, such as Mijas, Frigiliana, and Rhonda. Puerto Banus suits visitors seeking luxury accommodations. Otherwise, Estepona holds a Christmas fair.
7: Almeria – Popular with Foreigners
Located in the Andalusia region, Almeria enjoys perfect daytime temperatures from December onwards, with averages of 20 degrees. With fewer crowds, the exquisite white sands and breathtaking views still easily attract admirers. Since Almeria is one of Spain’s hottest destinations, cycling trips take off, and people explore winding roads on two wheels.
Sitting on Spain’s southeastern Mediterranean coast, foreigners often overlook the excellent Almeria. However, bars usually give free tapas when ordering drinks, and Almeria’s desert was a filming playground for famous Western movies. Otherwise, head to Cabo de Gata Nijar National Park for unbeatable photos.
Almería is steadily gaining attention as a favourite destination for sunny lifestyles. With 22% of residents being foreign-born, it has one of the highest proportions of expats in the country. Expat communities are diverse, including people from the UK and Romania, which creates welcoming atmospheres. Towns like Arboleas, Partaloa, and Bédar even have foreign residents making up over a third of the voters, demonstrating how expats have become integrated into local life.
8: Murcia – Where Tradition Meets Sunshine
Partly buried between the Sierra de Orihuela and the Cresta de Gallo Mountain range is Murcia, located on Spain’s southeastern coast and the Iberian Peninsula. As another overlooked holiday town, expect mild days from December to March, which easily lure anyone escaping freezing winds, cold days, and grey skies.
Located in Costa Calida, residents and tourists enjoy beachside cafés with stunning sea views. The Spanish towns of Aguilas and Puerto de Mazarrón in Murcia are renowned for their diverse attractions and activities. Thanks to the diverse Mediterranean architectural styles, the Cathedral of Santa Maria is a popular landmark; however, southern Murcia also boasts numerous green spaces, parks, and gardens.
9: Malaga – Sun, Sea, and Spanish Soul
Southern Malaga‘s population increases with every passing month, as it attracts visitors with European tourist charm. For sunny days in central Málaga, consider historical landmarks, the Spanish Film Festival, the Pablo Picasso Museum, the Alcazaba, Gibralfaro Castle, the Cathedral, art, tourism, beaches, and, of course, sunshine. Visitors enjoy the nice weather and try various gastronomic options, from numerous beach bars and tapas bars to traditional cuisines and fine dining restaurants.
For foreigners and expats, Málaga is a central hub. The city and its surrounding areas have long attracted retirees, digital nomads, and travellers, particularly from the UK, northern Europe, and Latin America. Government sources indicate that nearly one in four residents in the province is foreign-born, a higher proportion than in other districts.
10: Nerja – Expat Favourite Town
Nerja is one of the best places for warm afternoons with pleasant temperatures. The Caves of Nerja feature stunning rock formations and even underground concerts. From the Balcony of Europe, perched high above the cliffs, witness breathtaking sea views. Nearby Calahonda and Caleta beaches are peaceful in the off-season, and the Andalusian town retains year-round charm.
Nerja has a well-established expat community, particularly from the UK, Germany, and Scandinavia, so English is widely spoken in restaurants, shops, and services. Life here in winter is peaceful but not sleepy, and the town centre remains active without the crowds of summer. For quieter, sun-drenched places with strong community, affordability, and outdoor lifestyles, Nerja is a game-changer.
11: Valencia – Popular City
Valencia mixes mild weather with modern and historical appeal. The Ruzafa neighbourhood is a hub for creative arts and cuisine, and the city’s expansive gardens suit afternoon strolls. The city’s festive decorations and markets provide inviting atmospheres. As the birthplace of paella, Valencia offers incredible culinary experiences. Whether cycling through the city or exploring modern architecture, Valencia seamlessly blends tradition and innovation.
Expat communities are large and growing, with people from across Europe, North America, and beyond. Foreigners appreciate the lower cost of living compared to Barcelona or Madrid, the quality of local healthcare, and the city’s blend of tradition and modernity. During winter, Valencia doesn’t shut down, cafés stay open, cultural events continue, and there’s a lively, local atmosphere without the intensity of tourist season. For remote workers, retirees, and travellers, this is a social and liveable place.
12: Bilbao – In the North
Bilbao, located in northern Spain, is a blend of modern design and traditional Basque culture. Though cooler, the city is vibrant with activity. The Salon scene features contemporary art and music, while the city’s restaurants highlight rich northern cuisine. From Bilbao, you can easily reach the Costa Brava, where dramatic cliffs and coastal trails host excellent hiking opportunities. Despite being a northern city, Bilbao provides hotel options with indoor pools and spa services, providing a relaxing stay.
Expat circles are smaller in places like Valencia or Málaga, but they are tight-knit and diverse, comprising students, professionals, and digital nomads. English isn’t widely spoken, so learning Spanish (or even some Basque) goes a long way in everyday life. While winter in Bilbao isn’t ideal for sun-seekers, it offers culture, authenticity, walkable urban life, and “local” experiences, especially for those who enjoy crisp air, good food, and slower paces during the colder months.
14: Galicia for Authentic Spanish
Galicia, located in the northwest, highlights the perfect rural retreat. Wine lovers visit estates like Pazo de Rubiáns and Pazo de San Lourenzo for tastings and visits to the Wine Museum. While cooler than the south, Galicia’s scenery and gastronomy shine through. Camino de Santiago is quieter at this time of year, with fewer crowds and lower prices. For expats, this isn’t the place to chase winter sun, but rather authentic lifestyles that are off the beaten path.
The expat population in Galicia is relatively small and spread across cities such as Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Lugo, and Vigo, with many drawn by low living costs and the traditional way of life. English is less commonly spoken here than in major tourist areas, so some command of Spanish (or even Galician) is beneficial for integration. Still, there is a welcoming local community, excellent seafood, and a deeply rooted sense of history and nature. Winter is also a time when the region becomes introspective, attracting writers, remote workers, and retirees.
Also Consider
Cadiz and Santa Cruz host Carnival season, rivalling celebrations in South America and Asia. These vibrant festivals feature elaborate costumes, lively music, and colourful parades, drawing millions of visitors. In Santa Cruz, the Carnival is one of the biggest in the world, transforming the streets into a continuous party, day and night. Finally, cities like Carmen feature intimate Andalusian charm and lesser-known destinations for relaxation.
Which part of Spain has the best winter weather?
The part of Spain with the best winter weather is the southern coast, particularly the Costa del Sol, with cities such as Málaga, Marbella, and Nerja being notable examples. These areas have the sunniest conditions in mainland Europe, with daytime temperatures from 17 to 20°C, and experience minimal rainfall compared to other regions.
Another top contender is the Canary Islands, located off the northwest coast of Africa. Places like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote offer even milder temperatures, ranging from 20 to 23°C, with abundant sunshine year-round. While technically not part of mainland Spain, the Canary Islands are Spanish territory and popular among both holidaymakers and expatriates.
Where in Spain to spend the winter?
Unlike Northern European countries, southern regions, such as Andalusia and the Costa Blanca, experience mild, sunny winters that make everyday life pleasant and enjoyable. Daily highs reach 15–20°C, to enjoy outdoor cafes, strolls along the beach, or weekend hikes well into December and beyond. For expats, this means maintaining an active lifestyle year-round without the harsh blues. Malaga, Alicante, and Valencia remain lively, but without peak-season crowds. For skiing, the Sierra Nevada provides a range of options just a couple of hours from the coast.
Is it worth going to Spain in the winter?
Absolutely, Spain in the winter is a rewarding experience, allowing you to escape colder climates without sacrificing culture, scenery, or great food. Seville, Granada, Valencia, and Málaga have temperatures between 15 and 20°C during the day, with far fewer tourists than summer. Southern coastal regions like Andalusia and the Costa Blanca, are pleasant enough for outdoor dining and leisurely beach walks. Beyond the weather, Spain brings unique charm. From festive Christmas markets and New Year celebrations to traditional events like the Three Kings Parade in early January, expect plenty of experiences. For sports enthusiasts, the Sierra Nevada mountains near Granada offer skiing and snowboarding with stunning views, all within a short drive from the Mediterranean coast.
Which is warmer in winter, Malaga or Alicante?
When comparing Malaga and Alicante, both cities have mild Mediterranean climates, but Malaga features the warmer option. While daytime highs average around 16 to 17°C for both destinations, Malaga has slightly milder nights, staying a degree or two warmer than Alicante. This is because of Malaga’s humid coastal environment, which helps retain warmth after sunset. Alicante is cooler at night despite plenty of sunshine. Overall, for the warmest escape between the two, Malaga has a noticeable advantage.
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