Spain can be warm and sunny in the summer, but the winter weather can be an entirely different ball game. For those planning to spend the December holidays in Madrid, the Spanish capital, there are a few things to prepare for. Compared to other parts of Europe, Madrid does not receive much precipitation (rain or snow) during December as the weather is quite dry. This mild weather combined with the peak holiday season tends to draw a lot of crowds, especially around Christmas. So if you plan to visit while on vacation, be sure to book your hotel and travel well in advance.
Otherwise, early December (before the holidays) is a great time to find a deal on a hotel, as many lower their rates at this time of year.
Weather in Madrid in December
The weather in December is generally mild – some days can reach 50 and 60 degrees, but nights tend to be cooler, though they rarely drop below freezing.
- Average High: 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius)
- Low Average: 38 degrees Fahrenheit (3 degrees Celsius)
Madrid is a very dry city, and even in December it is unlikely that it will rain much, so you can probably leave your umbrella at home. Usually Madrid only sees an average of six days with a total rainfall of 2.2 inches. You are not likely to have a white Christmas in Madrid either, as temperatures don’t drop enough for snow to accumulate.
What to pack
If you’re planning a trip to Madrid in December, you should pack layers like long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, and long pants, as well as extra outerwear like jackets, gloves, and hats. The wind can pick up at night too, so a windbreaker or heavy winter coat with a scarf is great for keeping warm. Comfortable walking shoes are also a must for exploring the city on foot. You probably won’t need an umbrella or waterproof boots as it doesn’t rain or snow much in December, but be sure to check the forecast ahead of time in case a strange stormy day arrives.
Holiday events in Madrid
December is a good time to visit Madrid’s Christmas markets and festivities. Shop for Christmas gifts at the Plaza Mayor Christmas Market, Madrid’s largest seasonal market, then enjoy the bright lights along Gran Vía or ice skate on the rink at the Centro Cultural Conde Duque in the trendy neighborhood of Malasaña. If you want to host special dinners (especially on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day), be sure to book restaurant reservations well in advance. On the last Friday in November, the mayor of Madrid turns on the city’s Christmas lighting displays to usher in the Christmas season, which lasts throughout the New Year.
December Travel Tips
- December sales depend on when you are visiting. At the beginning of December it has sales in airfares and hotel rates. However, visiting at Christmas and the holidays will be very expensive.
- If you visit in early December, there will be hardly any crowds, so you will have the sites to yourself.
- The climate is much more moderate in Madrid compared to other European cities. You won’t have to pack a heavy bag full of snow gear.
