For most, Spain conjures up images of sitting in a beach restaurant, drinking sangria and eating paella. But, Spain is also great in winter, and December can beat a hot summer month like August.
Many do not realize that it snows in Spain, and it has many more mountains than any other country in Europe, which means that you can ski in Spain. You can’t beat the Pyrenees, with ski resorts along the French border, while for the sheer novelty of skiing in southern Spain and being able to hit the beach on the same day, Sierra Nevada is perfect. There are also ski resorts near Madrid, in northwestern Spain (in Galicia, León and Cantabria), La Rioja and Teruel. As most avid skiers head to the Alps to ski, the resorts in Spain are moderately priced.
A by-product of the heat of Spanish summers is the fact that many businesses close as staff flee warmer cities for colder parts of the country. This is especially the case in Madrid and Seville. This means that you will find that many of the best restaurants and bars are closed. There are also fewer art exhibitions and special events because there are fewer people there to see them. In winter, everything is open and there will be a lot to do.
Spain Weather in winter
Although temperatures vary across the country, summer in Spain can be hot, often too hot. Cities like Seville and Madrid frequently reach temperatures above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (40 degrees Celsius). In winter, the temperatures are much more manageable. It can get very cold in the center and north, but Andalusia is pleasantly warm during the winter months.
- Madrid in December average high: 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius)
- Madrid in December average low: 39 degrees Fahrenheit (4 degrees Celsius)
What to pack
Of course, if you plan to participate in winter sports, you should be sure to pack your usual cold weather clothing and gear. But in cities, layers are key with a coat, boots, or walking shoes, and a winter hat, scarf, and gloves. The climate varies, so you may not need as much winter clothing in the parts of the country that border the Mediterranean.
Winter events in Spain
Already in October, traditional sweets such as nougat, an almond and honey sweet and marzipan appeared in supermarkets. But the real events begin in December. Winter in Spain is dominated by Christmas and the New Year, although there are also other events. There are celebrations and religious services from mid-December to January 6. There’s the giant billion euro lottery, lavish nativity scenes, lots of great food, and one of the biggest New Year’s Eve celebrations you’re likely to see.
- Carnival : Without a doubt, the most important event in February is the carnival, which usually (but not always) takes place during this month. The Sitges carnival is one of the largest and most daring in the country. Expect lots of colorful costumes and lots of drink on the streets
- Jerez Festival : this is one of the most important flamenco festivals in Spain. If you are in Jerez a little earlier, this is a good place to base yourself for visiting the carnival in nearby Cádiz.
- ARCOmadrid International Contemporary Art Fair : The ARCOmadrid International Contemporary Art Fair is also held in February, which includes avant-garde historical works and contemporary classic works, along with contemporary art.
Winter travel tips
- You are likely to find lower airfares and hotel rates in the low winter season. Keep your eyes open for a good deal.
- January is the coldest month in Madrid and most of Spain, so be sure to pack extra layers if you visit compared to December or February.
- Although Spain is not known for having European-style Christmas markets, it is still a great place to enjoy the holidays. Just book well in advance to get the best prices on flights and accommodation.
