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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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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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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.

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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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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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.

All Destinations , Europe , Spain

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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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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34 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.

Doe it rain a lot in Malaga region in winter? I saw you mentioning you lived there. We want to go in January-February but my wife hates windy rainy weather that we have in Portland at this time

The weather definitely won’t be the same in southern Spain in winter as in Portland! Yes, it may rain and the sky may be cloudy on some days in January and February but there is still lots of sun even on rainy days. This part of Spain never gets moments when it rains nonstop for the days in the row. I personally prefer Malaga in winter rather than in summer.

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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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Spain in January: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

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Morella, Spain

Spain in January is like a treasure waiting to be discovered, away from the typical crowds and hot weather of the summer months.

January is considered the low travel season in Spain, providing a unique and authentic experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. From blossoming almond trees to seasonal cuisine, immersive cultural festivals, and welcoming medieval towns, Spain in January can feel like an entirely different country when compared with the peak-season travel experience.

Uncover the best destinations, activities, and events Spain has to offer during the winter month of January.

Is January a Good Time to visit Spain?

How cold is spain in january, where to go in spain in january, what to do in spain in january, plan your trip to spain in january.

Gothic Quarter in Barcelona, Spain

January is a great month to visit Spain and is considered the low season for travel to the country. The crowds are smaller, which means you can experience authentic Spanish culture without the influx of tourists in the famous museums, popular restaurants, or historic landmarks. The weather can be cold, especially in the northern regions. The thinner crowds also mean certain attractions may have reduced hours. The right planning can help you work around any changes you may need to explore and experience Spain in January according to your interests.

Expert Tips for Discerning Travelers

Costa Brava, Spain

Spain in January has temperatures that vary greatly depending on the region. The average weather around southern, coastal areas like Andalusia and the Mediterranean is mild, with highs around 60°F and lows around 45°F. Central Spain and the north are cooler in January, with highs around 50°F and lows dipping below freezing, typically fluctuating between 34°F. and 37°F.

Alcazar Palace in Seville, Spain

Granada • Best Place for Sightseeing

Granada is at the heart of Andalusia and offers a paradise for sightseers in the form of historic landmarks, labyrinthine streets, and gorgeous architecture. The iconic Alhambra is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning Moorish design throughout the palace and fortress. Breathtaking views sweep over the rooftops of Granada, while the intricate Islamic design accentuates the gardens, embellishes the interior plazas, and demonstrates the stunning attention to detail, from the mosaic tilework to the carved stucco elements that transport you back in time.

Canary Islands • Best Place for Great Weather

The Canary Islands have an idyllic subtropical climate year-round, making them a prime destination for warm, sunny weather in January. With average temperatures ranging from 68°F to 75°F, the islands offer a welcome escape from the chilly winters of mainland Spain, while also retaining the culture that draws so many to the Iberian peninsula. From stargazing to hiking in the Anaga Mountains, visiting saltwater pools, or enjoying a local festival, the Canary Islands in January offer a combination of great weather and the joys of local life.

Barcelona • Best Place for Families with Children

Barcelona is the cosmopolitan capital of Catalonia and a fantastic destination for families with children. From the whimsical Park Güell designed by Gaudí to the interactive science museums and vibrant Las Ramblas street, the city boasts a wealth of kid-friendly attractions that are also fun for the whole family. Barcelona's mild Mediterranean climate in January makes it ideal for easily exploring the city's parks, outdoor spaces, streets, and more.

Seville • Best Place for Romantic Scenery

Seville is an immersion into the charming capital of Andalusia, perfect for romantics. Stroll hand in hand through the picturesque Plaza de España, cruise along the Guadalquivir River, and lose yourselves in the winding streets of the historic Jewish Quarter. The city's warm evenings in January make it an ideal time to dine al fresco and savor the vibrant tapas culture. The historic Moorish architecture featured in the preserved designs of the Alcázar palace and iconic Giralda bell tower further enhances Seville's famous romantic atmosphere.

Avila • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

The medieval city of Avila in central Spain can feel like a hidden gem that offers a chance to escape the typical crowds in January and throughout the year. The remarkably preserved ancient walls date back to the 11th century and encircle the old town, providing a peaceful ambiance, while protecting local heritage. Winding cobblestone streets, historic churches, and cozy plazas offer a glimpse into Avila’s rich cultural history without the hustle and bustle of more famous medieval cities around the country.

Skiing in Spain

Enjoy the Slopes on the Sierra Nevada Mountains

Hit the slopes near Granada to enjoy Europe's southernmost ski resort. With over 62 miles of trails and the longest ski season in southern Europe, the Sierra Nevada offers a unique opportunity to ski under sunny Andalusian skies. The high altitude ensures excellent snow conditions, making it an ideal winter destination for skiers and snowboarders. After a day on the slopes, visitors can explore the charming city of Granada, renowned for its stunning Alhambra palace and vibrant tapas culture.

Witness the Tamborrada Drum Festival in San Sebastián

Experience the exciting Tamborrada festival on January 20 each year, when locals take to the streets beating drums for 24 hours straight to commemorate the city's rebirth after being destroyed by fire. The festival starts at midnight with the ceremonial Chupinazo, where thousands of drummers dressed in traditional costumes parade through the city, creating an electrifying atmosphere. The non-stop drumming continues until midnight the next night, accompanied by music, local cuisine, and plenty of wine.

Enjoy the Colors of Almond Blossoms in Andalusia

Take in the stunning almond trees in full bloom across Andalusia's countryside in late January, with special walking and driving routes dedicated to the beauty of the seasonal spectacle. The white and pink blossoms carpet the rolling hills and valleys, creating a colorful landscape that attracts visitors from around the world. Many towns and villages in the region organize festivals and events to celebrate the almond blossom season, offering you a chance to immerse in local traditions and sample delicious almond-based treats during your trip.

La Rioja, Spain

From the snowcapped peaks of the Sierra Nevada to the almond blossoms of Andalusia, Spain in January offers a wide range of experiences that can enchant the most seasoned traveler. Whether you seek outdoor adventures, cultural immersion, or romantic escapes, January is a marvelous time to explore Spain’s regional diversity.

For more inspiration and ideas around planning your dream getaway to the Iberian peninsula, explore our Spain travel guide , or find more insight into the possibilities of a trip tailored to your interests with our Spain tours .

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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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34 Best Countries to Visit in January (Perfect for Relaxation & Adventure)

Posted on Published: September 3, 2022  - Last updated: January 5, 2024

Dreaming of a January getaway? From amazing beach vacations to exploring winter wonderlands, the winter is a fantastic time to travel! So if you’ve ever wondered what are the best countries to visit in January – here’s your list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Whether your idea of the best place to visit in January is to escape the cold and look for sun or the beach, or you’re wishing for snowy adventures like skiing and ice castles, this list has a little bit of everything.

Some of these destinations are in the shoulder season, so you’ll find affordable pricing, which is always a bonus, too! From experiencing destinations with tons of culture to cities with amazing food scenes, you’ll find the perfect spot for your vacation in January.

Covering countries from all over the world, this list is going to inspire you to start searching for flights! Let’s dive in!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Map of the best countries to visit in January

From the Alps to the Caribbean and some underrated spots you haven’t thought of, this list covers a lot! Use this map as a visual to help you plan your vacation in January.

Pinch and zoom in to narrow down on a region that you’re considering, then check out the descriptions below.

Oh, and by the way, since I’m continually checking places off my travel bucket list but haven’t been everywhere yet, I’ve asked some of my fellow travel writers to help with this list. I think you’re gonna love it.😉

Best countries to visit in January

January is a fabulous time to travel! Whether you’re looking to escape the winter cold and hit the beach, you’re up for adventure in a new city, or you’re wishing for a winter wonderland to enjoy, here’s some amazing destinations.

1. Costa Rica (one of the best places to visit in January for sun)

Average temp:  high 78, low 64 (varied by region) Fly into:  Juan Santamaria International Airport, San Jose

If you’re looking for the best countries to visit in January, then Costa Rica absolutely needs to be on your radar! Zipline through cloud forests, watch monkeys and toucans dance around in the trees, dip your toes into luxurious sandy beaches and enjoy great food, Costa Rica has so much to offer visitors.

December through April is dry season, as it’s when you’ll see the best weather in Costa Rica. Although the temperatures vary based on which region you travel to, it’s still a great getaway than being stuck in the cold back home.

Visit the famous Arenal Volcano and enjoy the hot springs in La Fortuna. Still in the mountainous region, there are plenty of things to do in Monteverde , including ziplining and walking the suspension bridges through the cloud forests.

For a perfect beach getaway, head west to Tamarindo, where you can hit the water surfing, kayaking or stand up paddle boarding. With hotels and restaurants sprinkled throughout the beach, it’s a great spot to spend a few days.

If you’re looking for more adventure, head to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can witness monkeys and sloths hanging about!

Be sure to spend some time at the best beaches in Manuel Antonio , including my favorite, Playa Espadilla Sur. There’s so many things to do in Manuel Antonio , you could spend an entire vacation just in this area.

Costa Rica is definitely one of the best places to visit in January for sun, and a destination you’ll love!

Recommended by me – Nikki of She Saves She Travels

Average temp:  high 37, low 27 (varies by region) Fly into:  Vienna International Airport, Schwechat

Austria is a landlocked country between Germany and Italy, located in Central Europe. The alps extend from the west to the east and create a perfect winter wonderland every year.

People come from all over the world to enjoy the warm and fun ski resort experience in the Austrian mountains. There is something for everyone, from skiing, ski touring, snowboarding, ice skating, snow walking, sledging to country cross skiing.

A mulled wine or a Jagertee warm up every cold heart! Villages and cities are decorated with wonderful lights, creating a magical dreamy environment, the perfect place for a vacation in January. This is the best time to relax body and soul in some of the most remarkable thermal baths and sauna villages in Central Europe.

Old traditions make Austria a unique place to be in January. They can still be experienced at the beginning of January, the Perchten run in the Tyrol region and the Glöckler run in Styria. The capital city Vienna, as well as other well-known cities such as Salzburg and Innsbruck, are for all those looking for classic inspiration and the vibes of a long gone empire.

Curious travelers can discover more  top places in Austria . Definitely check out Vorarlberg, a mountainous state in the west, including the charming Bregenzerwald, Austria .

The weather in Austria in January is usually between 0 and 50 Fahrenheit. The higher one travels, the colder it gets.

The best way to get to Austria is via the Vienna airport, located in the east. Other options include the Salzburg airport, Innsbruck airport or even the much larger Munich airport in Germany.

The Austria Trend Hotels provide the most comfortable and memorable stays in Austria. Budget-travelers will want to look out for homely vacation rental properties. Things can be a bit expensive in Austria in January, but your journey will be less costly than a stay in neighboring Switzerland.

Recommended by Paul of Paulmarina

3. Colombia

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  El Dorado International Airport, Bogota

The South American country of Colombia is a great destination in January – in fact, it’s one of the best weather times to visit of the entire year! In January, the sun is shining, the weather is warm (though there is a huge variety of average temperatures throughout the country), and the rain is low. 

In general, Colombia is a great place to visit, no matter the time of year. It’s a very inexpensive country to travel to, and there’s a wide variety of things to see and do. The capital city of Bogota has an old town filled with colonial architecture, cobblestoned streets, and a wide variety of historical buildings and world class museums. 

Or, you can visit the Coffee Region of Colombia, such as the little, colorful town of Salento. Here, you can visit the coffee farms of Colombia or go hiking in the Cocora Valley, a magical hike into the mountains, where you can see the famous wax palms of Colombia – the tallest palms in the world that grow up to 200 feet high!

Finally, a must visit spot in Colombia is the coastal city of Cartagena, a photogenic, absolutely gorgeous colonial walled city with colorful buildings covered in plants and flowers. 

As you travel throughout Colombia, you’ll likely take a quick plane ride between the different cities. Many people choose to start their Colombia adventure by flying into the El Dorado International Airport in Bogota, and staying in Bogota at the Magdalena Guest House is a perfectly located spot to start your exploration of this gorgeous and varied country in South America. 

Colombia is one of the best places to visit in January for sun, culture and history!

Recommended by Stephanie of The Unknown Enthusiast

4. Aruba (a favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 76 Fly into:  Queen Beatrix International Airport, Oranjestad

If you’re looking for a beachy escape from the clutches of old man winter, look no further than gorgeous Aruba! January is a fantastic time to visit not only to enjoy sunny skies and 80-degree weather, but it’s also a unique place to ring in the New Year .

Typically, New Year’s Eve is kicked off with loads of fireworks throughout the city (if you were planning to sleep – good luck 😉), from large displays over the water to traditional Pagara (long strings of Chinese firecrackers) throughout the streets; there’s no end to colorful and fiery displays.

After that, the party doesn’t stop! Throughout January and into February, there are countless parades like the nighttime Torch Light Parade and other festivities in honor of Carnival . The official start of Carnival is in November, but most of the festivities happen in January and February.

Because of these fun festivities, you should expect to pay a little more for accommodations. To get the best deal, book early!

Aside from a colorful party scene, Aruba is also known for mesmerizing white sand beaches like Palm and Eagle Beach. These are 2 great spots to kick back and relax with a fruity cocktail. They’re some of the best beaches in Aruba !

After relaxing, you’ll have an endless selection of dining options, including Dutch, Asian, African and it’s even one of the most  vegan-friendly Caribbean Islands!

Aruba is one of the best beach vacations in January, and a destination you’ll love.

Recommended by Rebecca of Veggies Abroad

Average temp:  high 37, low 26 (varies by region) Fly into:  Keflavík International Airport, Keflavik

If you’re looking for an epic winter adventure, consider visiting Iceland in January. 

While the days may be short here, you’ll get to enjoy Iceland’s spectacular scenery to yourself, given that the summer crowds have long departed. Better yet, you’ll likely get to see Iceland covered with glistening snow. This is a fantastic time to explore the country’s ice caves or go on a glacier hike!

People travel from all over the world to Iceland in January, given that it’s one of the absolute best months to see the spectacular Northern Lights, thanks to the long, dark nights.

You can either book a guided tour to try to find the lights or drive outside of major cities, away from light pollution, to spot them yourself. Patience is key- seeing the lights depends on whether there’s solar activity, as well as whether there’s clouds obscuring the night sky. 

Another excellent winter activity here is taking advantage of any of the geothermal hot springs you’ll find scattered throughout the country. The springs may be more natural, like the Hellulaug Hot Pool, which is just an organically-formed pool overlooking the ocean, or can be straight up swanky, like the recently opened Sky Lagoon, with an infinity pool and sauna with stunning views of Kársnes Harbour.

The easiest way to reach this tiny island country is to fly into Reykjavik’s Keflavik International Airport.  Iceland’s weather in January is cold, but not as chilly as its Northern location might suggest, thanks to the relatively warm water from the gulf stream- you can expect temperatures to generally range from 26 to 37 degrees Fahrenheit. 

So be sure to include lots of warm layers on your Iceland packing list , like a base layer, parka, and gloves so you can actually enjoy exploring Iceland’s incredible landscape.

You’ll love visiting Iceland – perhaps absolute best place to vacation in January for adventure!

Recommended by Jessica of Uprooted Traveler

6. Thailand

Average temp:  high 89, low 73 Fly into:  Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangkok / Phuket International Airport, Phuket

Thailand is an incredible place, and one of the best countries to visit in January. With a large variety of destinations to see within Thailand, you’ll need to decide what kind of experience you want to have, and plan your vacation accordingly.

If you’re looking for beautiful temples, rich in historic architecture loaded with history, then Bangkok or Chiang Mai might be the right spot for you. Stay in the city a few days to soak in the sights. Be sure to take a food tour, and if your’e in Bangkok, visit the floating markets.

If a beach getaway is what you’re after, you have a variety of choices as well. The Phi Phi Islands offer some of the most pristine beaches in all of Thailand. Or, you can opt for Krabi, where there’s a mix of beaches and historical sights to explore.

Phuket is one of the most popular destinations in Thailand, and for good reason. With beautiful white sand beaches and plenty of amenities and accommodations, there’s something for everyone.

Take a snorkeling tour or day trip to Coral Island Phuket to see the area. And with an international airport, it’s easier to get to Phuket than some of the other islands in Thailand.

January is a fabulous time to visit Thailand because it’s the dry season. With plenty of sunshine, culture, food and activities, you’re sure to have a great time in Thailand!

7. France (one of the best places to visit in January Europe)

Average temp:  high 56, low 37 (varies by region) Fly into:  Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur, Nice

The month of January is a  great time to visit France because it is less crowded. Since it’s part of the low season, hotel and flight prices are more affordable.

Outside of the capital, Strasbourg in the north is a fantastic alternative. The Cathedral, art galleries, and taverns serving hearty plates of sauerkraut and local wines await visitors to this peaceful and unhurried city.

However, the French Riviera may be the best choice for people who prefer a warmer vacation in January. Also known as La Côte d’Azur (Azure Coast), it is accessible via the Aéroport Nice Côte d’Azur which is the second busiest international airport in France next to Paris. The French Riviera is a good option for those who prefer milder temperatures. 

Visiting the French Riviera in January will show you a more laid-back side of France, free of curious tourists and offering more affordable rates. Fewer visitors mean you get a good deal in even the more expensive hotel rooms, as well as cheaper meals in the area’s top restaurants.

A highly recommended place to stay in the  Royal Antibes , a stylish modern hotel with a prime location on the beach. The price of a room with huge glass windows and great views starts at slightly over €100.

You can spend your days touring the Côte d’Azur in between taking in the breathtaking vistas of the sea and basking in the mild Mediterranean weather . Enjoy the crisp winter days hiking the French Riviera’s beautiful trails, including the spectacular route over Èze-village or the Baou above St. Jeannet, with superb views over the Var Valley.

You might also find mimosas in the village of Tanneron, which is also home to Europe’s largest mimosa forest, the Massif de Tanneron.

The town of Menton, meanwhile, is known for its beautiful gardens and well-preserved old town center. The ancient walled city of Antibes is also well worth exploring. And if you want to experience a winter vacation like celebrities, you can also explore Cannes. 

Recommended by Christine of Journey To France

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Average temp:  high 82, low 71 Fly into:  

Situated in the middle of the Leeward Islands, part of the Lesser Antilles, in the American West Indies,  Antigua is arguably one of the prettiest Caribbean islands.  

Although it is a favorite destination for honeymoons and romantic escapes, it makes a perfect vacation for any kind of traveler that is not on a budget. 

It is in fact quite an expensive destination, especially if you choose to stay at one of the beautiful Antigua all inclusive resorts on the pristine Caribbean coast, which is very much recommended if you want to enjoy the island at its best. 

Antigua and Barbuda is actually made of the 2 namesake islands and many small islets, some of which are great snorkeling spots that you can visit by joining one of the boat tours available. 

Antigua is one of the best countries to visit in January because it’s dry season with less risk of rain. So expect a lot of sunshine and blue sky. But also it’s the most expensive time of the year to travel to Antigua, for the same reason, which is something to keep in mind as well.

Antigua is renowned for its incredible beaches (they say there are 365, one for each day of the year) and spectacular landscapes. Its home to gorgeous scenery with lush hills tumbling over the white sand beaches and the turquoise Caribbean sea.

Among the things you shouldn’t miss in Antigua, besides getting pampered in your gorgeous luxury hotel, are:

• Rent a car to explore all the spectacular beaches, including Darkwood beach, Dickenson bay and Half Moon Bay
• Dance at the sound of calypso music at Shirley Heights on a Sunday while watching the sun going down
• Try the local cuisine in one of the delicious restaurants on the beach
• Take a walk around the historical site of Nelson Dockyard at English Harbour and join one of the boat tours around the island. 

If you’re traveling on a budget you can also find more modest accommodations but keep in mind that the overall cost of living in the island is high. 

Recommended by Isabella of Boundless Roads

Best place to vacation in January

Can you believe this list? And we’re just getting started! Let’s keep exploring all the amazing winter getaways!

Average temp:  high 72, low 41 (varies by region) Fly into:  Benito Juárez International Airport, Mexico City

If you’re looking for a sunny getaway this January, take a trip adventuring around Mexico. As a massive country, enjoy everything from the vibrant Mexico City to the stunning cenotes of the Riviera Maya to colonial cultural towns and ancient ruins.

With its close proximity to the equator, Mexico enjoys year-round warm weather, making it the perfect place to escape the cold. One of the best months to visit the country, January is in the midst of Mexico’s dry season when temperatures are excellent and rain levels are low.

Average daytime temperature hovers between 75°F-85°F, but differs from region to region. At this time, colder winds and temperatures hit northern Mexico compared to the higher humidity in the south.

Everyone celebrates Christmas in Mexico, and even though January is a bit late for the festivities, enjoy strolling around every town decorated to the brim with holiday decor. January also signals the start of amazing festivals like Merida Fest, Fiesta Grande de Chiapa de Corzo, and Carnaval Jiutepec in Cuernavaca.

Most international flights will land you in the capital Mexico City or other popular tourist hotspots like Cancun or Cabo San Lucas. From there, a  fantastic public transportation system  can bring you to any neighboring cities and tourist attractions.

For those landing in Mexico City, book a stay in Hotel MX Centro as a starting point for your Mexico adventure!

Recommended by Catherine of Nomadicated

Average temp:  high 62, low 46 (varies by region) Fly into:  Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport, Malaga

If you are looking for a warm winter destination, the south of Spain and the Spanish islands are excellent options. Enjoy the mild temperatures and sunny days, discover beautiful landmarks and landscapes and immerse yourself in the food culture.

Travelling to the south of Spain or the Spanish islands in January is a smart choice to avoid crowds, extreme heat and high prices on flights and accommodation.

There are many incredible destinations in these parts of Spain, but a popular choice in the south of Spain is Malaga, the best destination for anyone that wants to escape the cold and rainy winter.

Many people believe that Malaga is a summer getaway, however, there are many reasons to visit Malaga in winter .

One of the reasons is the weather. Temperatures are mild and most days are sunny. The average maximum temperature in January is 16.8°C (62.24°F) which is ideal to do outdoor activities.

This time of the year is fantastic for sightseeing and exploring as the heat and humidity in the summer months don’t allow you to do so.  When visiting Malaga, you can’t miss attractions like the Alcazaba, a Moorish fortress palace, the cathedral and Picasso Museum.  

However, if you love nature, you can also enjoy going on beautiful hiking trails. One of the best places to go hiking is Montes de Malaga Nature Park. 

Another good reason to visit Malaga in January is to experience the festive period as Christmas ends on the 6th of January. If you are in the city on the 5th, don’t miss the Three Kings Parade. 

Last but not least, January is the cheapest month to visit Malaga. If you travel from a European country, you will find amazing and budget-friendly flight fares and good accommodation rates too.

The nearest airport to travel to Malaga is Malaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) which is 15 minutes from the city centre, and if you are looking for a hotel, Room Mate Valeria offers beautiful and comfortable rooms at reasonable prices.

Southern Spain is a lovely winter getaway, and Spain is one of the best countries to visit in Europe in January.

Recommended by Cristina of The Little World of Travelling

Want more Spain travel inspiration? Check out a week in Mallorca – stunning!

11. Belize (another favorite for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 68 Fly into:  Goldson International Airport, Belize City

The small Central American country of Belize is a dream to visit if you’re looking for a sunny vacation in January. Offering a variety of things to do in Belize from picturesque islands to fun beach towns and ancient ruins to explore, there’s so much to experience!

January is a great time to travel to Belize because many of the holiday tourists are gone and it’s the dry season, so you’ll have gorgeous weather for exploring.

For a beach vacation, head to Ambergris Caye or Placencia. You’ll find beautiful beaches that aren’t overcrowded like they can be in Florida or other spots in the Caribbean.

If you’re looking for history and culture, head inland to San Ignacio and visit the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins . Learn the fascinating history of how the Mayans lived and operated their stone structures while climbing atop the largest in the complex, El Castillo.

Whether you’re looking for a vacation where golf cart is the preferred method to get around or you’re up for chasing waterfalls and seeing monkeys roam through the jungles, Belize has a destination perfect for you!

12. Maldives

Average temp:  high 80, low 77 Fly into:  Velana International Airport, Male

If you’re thinking of starting the New Year with a bang, what better way to do this than laying on a dreamy beach, with white powdered sand and sone of the clearest water in the world? A trip to the Maldives should be on everyone’s bucket list , and January is the perfect time to do it. 

Although it’s right in the middle of the season, January is perfect for a trip to the Maldives as it’s right after the holidays and just before Valentine’s Day, so the prices are really great during these times. You can even find some  affordable water villas  if you dig enough, and you can maybe score a nice room at  this resort that I’m sure you’ve seen on Instagram already.

Getting there is easy, as there’s one main airport used as a hub, located next to the Capital city of Male. From here, you reach your resort island by either speed boat, seaplane, or a combination of the two, but this is handled by the accommodation itself so you really don’t have to worry about anything while on your trip.

And if you usually have a long list of activities to do while on vacation, you’ll have to adjust when in the Maldives: here, you can only lay on a beach or float in the water.

Of course, you can do various water activities like snorkeling, diving, or going on sunset cruises, or you can lay on a sunbed, hammock, or on a massage table, but you get the point. There’s really no better place in the world to relax than this tropical paradise!

Maldives easily earns a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January!

Recommended by Cristina of Honest Travel Stories

13. Singapore

Average temp:  high 87, low 75 Fly into:  Singapore Changi Airport, Singapore

Singapore is one of the best countries to visit in January for those looking for a warm and sunny getaway. The weather is hot and humid year round but January is one of the cooler months making it a great time to visit.

The temperature will still be hot so it is best to see indoor attractions during midday and early afternoon. The evening is a great time to walk around and explore as Singapore is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

One of the top and most unique  Singapore attractions  is Gardens by the Bay, a large nature park with both outdoor and indoor gardens and conservatories. Don’t miss Supertree Grove, made up of huge tree-shaped vertical gardens, that puts on free light and music shows every night.

Another must do is to walk along the waterfront promenade while enjoying skyline views and passing by landmarks including the ArtScience Museum, Helix Bridge and the Merlion statue . Explore and dine at one of the many interesting city neighborhoods such as Kampong Glam, Little India, and Chinatown.

The beautiful Singapore Botanic Gardens is also worth visiting. R ide the cable car to Sentosa Island for family friendly attractions and beaches.

Singapore is very easy to reach by air as it is home to Changi Airport, which is considered an attraction itself. Consider staying at a hotel with a rooftop pool such as the Marina Bay Sands , the iconic hotel known for its long rooftop infinity pool.

Recommended by Matilda of The Travel Sisters

14. Switzerland

Average temp:  high 38, low 28 Fly into:  Zurich International Airport, Zurich

Switzerland is definitely one of the best places to visit in Europe in January if you like snow! 

Since 60% of the country consists of the Alps, it’s designed for winter sport activities. Switzerland has an incredible number of famous ski resorts with a high amount of lifts and gondolas to take you into the beautiful winter wonderland. 

Impressive landscapes, exemplary service and snow reliability, you can expect great skiing and snowboarding in Switzerland. The Alpine country has a lot to offer when it comes to winter sports.

The mountain village of Zermatt, for example, impresses with a total of 360 kilometers (223+ miles) of slopes and over 60 lifts. It’s the largest ski area in Switzerland and one of the best ski resorts in the world.

Enjoy a little less hustle and bustle, a smaller but just as beautiful is Flumserberg  in central Switzerland or Samnaun in the east. No matter which of Switzerland’s many standout spots you choose, t raditional cheese fondue is available almost everywhere , often served in small, beautiful chalets or under open starry skies. 

South of the Alps, in Ticino, snow may not be guaranteed in January, but this region scores with the sunniest days in the country. So, if it’s raining or snowing elsewhere in the country in January, you can take a beautiful walk along Lake Lugano and enjoy the snow-covered Alpine peaks through your sunglasses in the bright and warm sun. 

Pro tip: come to Switzerland in January and bypass the school winter vacations, the country’s slopes are a little less busy. 

The biggest airport in Switzerland is Zurich and thanks to a great developed railroad network, you can reach almost any place in the country from Zurich in 3 hours. 

Recommended by Linda of Hiking the Alps

15. Guatemala (perfect for a low-key January getaway)

Average temp:  high 75, low 54 Fly into:  La Aurora International Airport, Guatemala City

Guatemala is a great vacation in January as it’s the peak dry season. Enjoy warm weather, great culture and amazing adventures.

It’s a budget destination, so your money will stretch further here than in nearby countries such as Costa Rica and Panama.

Top travel destinations in Guatemala include Antigua and Lake Atitlan. Antigua is a beautiful Spanish colonial city with many things to do. In fact, it’s one of the best tropical Christmas destinations in the Americas.

The #1 attraction near Antigua is climbing Acatenango Volcano and witnessing its’ neighbour, Fuego (Fire) Volcano, erupting every 30-40 minutes. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience not to be missed!

A 3 hour drive from Antigua will take you to the central highlands and  Lake Atitlan . The lake is a magical place with a near-perfect mid-20s temperature (mid-70’s in Fahrenheit) all year round. Surrounded by 3 volcanoes, the views from Lake Atitlan are something special!

There are 12 towns surrounding Lake Atitlan, each offering something a little different and unique. San Pedro is a favorite for backpackers and San Marcos is a favorite for the hippy crowd. Wherever you end up visiting, travel between towns is quick and easy.

Travel between towns across the lake on little boats , known locally as Lanchas. The longest journey will be about 30 minutes and the cost less than $2.  

Free Cerveza in Santa Cruz La Laguna is an interesting place to stay. A glamping site with private eco-lodges and tee-pee style tents, there is always something going on.

Enjoy complimentary use of the facilities, such as kayaking and stand-up paddle boarding. Santa Cruz is one of the best places on the lake to swim and offers fantastic views of the volcanoes in the distance.    

Go for something a little different on your next holiday, go to Guatemala!

Recommended by Wes of Walk About Wes

Average temp:  high 30, low 13 (varies by region) Fly into:  Calgary International Airport, Alberta

So many destinations in Canada turn into the most magical winter wonderland during the month of January, and are sure to cure anyone’s post-holiday blues.

One of the most exciting places to visit is the Canadian Rockies region and Banff National Park. At Lake Louise, you’ll have the chance to skate across the frozen lake with a backdrop of the snow-capped mountains.

This outdoor ice rink has even been named the world’s best by CNN ! During the month of January, the entrance to the lake is surrounded by a beautiful ice castle , which will have you feeling like you’re in a snow globe in no time.

Through most of January, Canyon Lights puts on an amazing display at the Capilano Suspension Bridge in North Vancouver. This bridge is one of the most scenic places to visit in Canada year-round, but when the bridge and surrounding park are aglow with thousands of twinkling lights, it’s even more amazing to experience. 

Heading over to the East Coast side of Canada, the best place to vacation in January is Old Quebec, a historic section of Quebec city. This area has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site , and will have you feeling you’ve been transported to Europe.

Many of the picturesque streets will still have their holiday decor and lights up through most of January, and are especially magical after a snowfall. Visitors can enjoy rides down a toboggan chute, which has been operating for the last 135 years. 

To visit Banff National Park and Lake Louise, you’ll want to fly into Calgary, and from there, you’ll need to rent a car to get around. If you want to visit Capilano Suspension Bridge’s Canyon Lights display, you can fly right into Vancouver, and rely on public transportation and ride share services to get around. Then to visit Old Quebec, the best airport to fly into is Quebec City Airport.

Canada offers a variety of experiences, and it’s definitely one of the best countries to visit in January.

Recommended by Sam of New England Wanderlust

More of the best countries to visit in January

Not even half done with the list. Do you have your January getaway picked out yet? Here’s more fabulous ideas ahead…

17. Australia

Average temp:  high 79, low 66 (varies by region) Fly into:  Sydney Kingsford Smith International Airport, Sydney

One of the best countries to visit in January for sun is Australia . On the other side of the hemisphere, January is one of the warmest summer months.

Australia is an enormous country which means that temperatures can vary depending on where you go. From as warm as 89 F(32 C) degrees in Perth to as “cold” as 79 F (26 C) in Melbourne. 

Besides the sunny weather, Australia has a lot more to offer. With a 21,126 miles (34,000 KM) long coastline, you can find beautiful beaches and cliffs all around the country. This makes beach hopping and surfing 2 of the most popular things to do in the country.

Nature lovers will have no shortage of green scenery as Australia is the number one country when it comes to the most national parks worldwide (over 650). 

A good place to start your Australian vacation is Sydney. It’s home to the largest airport that has the most international flight connections. On top of that, Sydney is also just a beautiful and lively city with amazing beaches.

For outdoor lovers, its close proximity to the Blue Mountains National Park is perfect . And wine lovers will enjoy a day trip to the Hunter Valley to try some Australian wine and bring home a unique  Australian souvenir . 

For solo travelers, The Wake-Up Bondi hostel is a great place to stay. If you’re looking for a hotel, the Travelodge Hotel Sydney Martin Place is a good option too. 

Recommended by Lara of The Best Travel Gifts

Average temp:  high 75, low 59 Fly into:  Dubai International Airport, Dubai / Abu Dhabi International Airport, Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking to soak in the warm winter sun, then the UAE makes for an amazing destination. This Middle Eastern country is home to 7 Emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi being the most popular ones.

Both these glamorous Emirates have their own international airport and an array of hotels to choose from. From ultra-luxurious to boutique properties, from business hotels to glamping sites and from desert retreats to oceanfront suites, the accommodation offer is downright dazzling.

With daytime temperatures averaging 24°C or 75°F and nighttime temperatures averaging 15°C or 59°F, January is an excellent month to spend your vacation days outdoors without suffering from the scorching heat that affects the UAE most of the year .

You could choose to spend your days relaxing at a soft white sand beach, admire the view from the observation deck at the world’s tallest building, take an  adventurous desert safari from Dubai , soak up the atmosphere of the souks, visit the mesmerizing Abu Dhabi mosque , cruise the Arabian Gulf by speedboat, kayak through the mangroves or zipline between the most spectacular mountainscapes.

And fashionistas will certainly appreciate the Dubai Shopping Festival that takes place in January. So, when an action-packed winter vacation with a touch of glamour is what you’re looking for, then the UAE will not disappoint!

The UAE is one of the best places to visit in January for sun and adventure!

Recommended by Sarah of CosmopoliClan

19. Portugal

Average temp:  high 59, low 47 (varies by region) Fly into:  Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport, Porto

Portugal is a charming winter destination and is one of the top warm European places to visit in January. Portugal’s temperate climate is perfect for a wonderful vacation across the country.

Start your Portuguese adventure with the second-largest city in Portugal, Porto. It’s a city famous for its association with port wine.

From boat trips on the Douro River to discovering hidden architectural gems, there are plenty of  places to visit in Porto . The old Historic Centre of Porto, alongside the nearby Luiz I Bridge and Monastery of Serra do Pilar, are considered a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Rumoured to be the inspiration behind the Harry Potter books, Livraria Lello is one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and one of the must-visit attractions in Porto.

Next, climb the Clerigos Tower for a stunning view over the city skyline. No visit to Porto is complete without taking a tour of its famous port wine cellars. You’ll find many of them in Gaia, on the other side of the Douro River.

Finally, head down to Matosinhos beach and Foz do Douro promenade for a day out by the beach. The closest airport to the city is the Francisco Sá Carneiro Airport, which is well-connected to the city by public transport.

You can also add the vibrant capital city of Lisbon to your holiday itinerary. Lisbon is one of Europe’s sunniest cities, having received more days of sunshine than any other European capital.

When visiting Lisbon, be sure to check out the best things to do in Almada , too. You’ll love visiting Portugal. It’s deserving of a spot on this list of best places to visit in January (Europe).

Recommended by Moumita & Sankha of Chasing the Long Road

20. USA (so many can’t miss destinations for a vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 68, low 46 (in the southern region – varies greatly throughout) Fly into:  Denver International Airport, Denver / Kahului Airport, Maui / Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, San Juan

Similar to Canada, Mexico and Australia, the USA has a variety of climates and destinations perfect for January. And although it’s impossible to choose just one, these popular January destinations in the USA are all great for wintertime travel.

Vail or Breckenridge , Colorado offer some of the best ski resorts in the world! If you’re looking for a perfect winter getaway with fluffy white snow, consider the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

Hawaii is an obvious choice if you’re looking for warm vacations in January in the US, since it’s average high temperatures hover around 80 degrees throughout the islands.

Watch the sunset on Haleakala in Maui , take a helicopter ride over the NaPali Coast in Kauai, visit the impressive Volcanoes National Park on the Big Island, or hike to the top of Diamond Head to overlook Waikiki Beach in Oahu. Hawaii is full of adventure!

Another hot spot for a best place to vacation in January is Puerto Rico . There’s so many things to do in Old San Juan , including visiting the 500+ year old fort, El Morro. And if you’re looking for a perfect beach, head to Flamenco Beach Puerto Rico on the nearby island of Culebra.

Without a doubt, the USA offers some spectacular January getaways!

21. El Salvador

Average temp:  high 85, low 64 Fly into:  San Salvador Monseñor Óscar Arnulfo Romero International Airport, San Luis Talpa

El Salvador is an underrated destination in Central America, and one of the best countries to visit in January. A great spot to visit in El Salvador is the town of El Tunco.

Located on the Pacific coast, El Tunco, El Salvador , is a great getaway in the middle of winter. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging in the high 80s. January is one of the best times to visit El Tunco because it’s the middle of the dry season, so the chance of a downpour is minimal.

The best things to see and do in El Tunco involve enjoying its beautiful beaches, which are perfect for swimming and surfing. You can also sunbathe but some of the beach areas are a bit pebbly, especially right after high tide.

If you want a chill vibe, you can take some yoga classes and relax in a beach hammock. Or if you’re up for some adventure, you can explore the beach caves (low tide only) or go waterfall hiking.

There are also a number of restaurants and bars in the town. The best thing to eat in El Tunco is pupusas, the national food of El Salvador! These thick corn tortillas are filled with meat, cheese, and/or beans.

If you want to party 24/7, there are a number of party-focused hostels in town. If you want to get a good night’s sleep after going out but still be close to the action, stay at Eco del Mar Hotel .

El Tunco is easy to get to from the San Salvador airport. It’s just a short drive to the coast on well-paved highways. You can hire a driver in advance, rent a car, or just call an Uber at the airport.

If you’re looking for a fun, affordable vacation destination in January, El Tunco is definitely worth considering.

Recommended by Brodi of Our Offbeat Life

Average temp:  high 39, low 28 Fly into:  Nikola Tesla International Airport, Belgrade

Serbia is the best place to vacation in January if you love Christmas and lengthened holiday seasons. As a country with Christian Orthodox as its major population, Serbia celebrates Christmas on January 7th. And on top of that, in addition to the New Year on January 1st, they also celebrate Serbian New Year based on the Julian calendar on the 15th. 

The best way to visit Serbia is to fly to Nikola Tesla International Airport in Belgrade, or you can easily travel by car from  the neighboring countries in Balkan . 

Serbia is quite small, so you can easily travel from the north to the south of the country for a week or two. Depending on the location, there are many things to do in Serbia in January. From enjoying the nightlife scene in Belgrade to spending your winter wonderland in popular ski resorts like Zlatibor or Kopaonik, there is always something for everyone!

For accommodation, you can easily find budget-friendly hotels and vacation rentals in each city. If you have a little extra budget for your accommodation, take a chance to stay at the Moskva Hotel in the heart of Belgrade. One of the most important landmarks in Serbia, the hotel has become a cultural heritage in the capital city since 1968. 

Recommended by Marya of The BeauTraveler

23. Philippines

Average temp:   high 86, low 74 Fly into:  El Nido Lio Airport, Palawan / Puerto Princesa International Airport, Puerto Princesa

With the dry season in full swing, the Philippines is one of the best places to visit in January for sun . You can expect the weather to be hot and humid, yet there will always be a beach nearby when you feel the need to cool off.

One of the best places to visit is the island of Palawan, which has been voted to be “the most beautiful island in the world” multiple times by Travel + Leisure’s Best of Awards . 

Once you’re there, it’s easy to see why. In the northern part of the Palawan near El Nido you’ll find beautiful islands, turquoise-blue lagoons, and jagged limestone cliffs. Thus, island hopping is one of  the best things to do in Palawan !

If you don’t want to take the detour through Puerto Princesa – the capital of Palawan – you can fly to El Nido directly via Airswift from Manila. Some of the best places to stay in El Nido are Frendz Hostel and Blue Mango . 

If you’re adventurous, you can also venture out to other places on the island, like San Vicente and Port Barton. San Vicente is known for its 14-kilometer-long beach, whereas Port Barton is a small, laid-back town attracting travelers from all over the world. From here, you can hike through the jungle to get to low-key beaches and even a picturesque waterfall, kayak around the bay, or go snorkeling for sea turtles.  

As you can see, no matter where you go in Palawan, you can’t go wrong! You’ll have a wonderful vacation, perfect for a January getaway!

Recommended by Lena of Not Another Backpacker

24. Jamaica (another favorite on this list of best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 74 Fly into:  Sangster International Airport, Montego Bay

One of the best beach vacations in January is Jamaica. In the middle of the Caribbean Sea, the hurricane season is over and the rush of holiday travelers is gone. However, January is one of the busiest months for visitors to the island, as many are trying to escape the winter back home.

Relax and rest in luxury at an all-inclusive resort in Montego Bay, Negril or Ocho Rios. From family friendly options to adults-only resorts, there’s something for everyone. Although, make sure to save up for it in advance, as January has some of the highest prices.

Venture off the resort on a day trip to Dunn’s River Falls, ziplining, bamboo rafting, take a sunset cruise or Blue Hole, Negril , amongst many others.

Or, rent a car and explore for yourself. Just be sure to ask your hotel which nearby areas to avoid, as there is some gang crime in Jamaica. And definitely get back before dark.

By the way, Jamaica is a great stop on some of the best young adult cruises , since it’s a destination with so much action and culture.

Whether you’re looking to sit on the beach for a week or soak in the amazing Jamaican food and culture, you’ll love a trip to this tropical paradise!

25. Morocco

Average temp:  high 66, low 45 Fly into:  Marrakesh Menara Airport, Marrakesh

January might just be the best time of year for a trip to Morocco. Avoid the hot sticky summer, avoid the busy season and make the most of the moderate temperatures in Morocco during winter. 

Marrakech, Essaouira and the Sahara Desert are just some of the destinations you’ll want to add to your Morocco itinerary.  

The beautiful chaos synonymous with Morocco is found right in the heart of the medinas of Marrakech.  And you can start your journey here with a flight into Marrakech Menara Airport.

Book the Riad Tizwa in Marrakech for a stay to remember, wander Jemaa el-Fna Square in the early evening, shop in the labyrinth of souks and stroll through the Jardin Majorelle. And be sure to dine at all the best restaurants in Marrakech while you’re in town.

But don’t forget to see what else Morocco has to offer in winter. Marrakech is the perfect base to arrange a Sahara Desert tour or a beach adventure to Essaouira. 

Book a visit to Merzouga or M’hamid, to see the rolling sand dunes of the Sahara. And on your way include a visit to Ouarzazate to admire the incredible kasbahs of this region.  The Kasbah Aït Benhaddou is possibly the most magnificent, made famous by the many movies filmed here.  

And finally, don’t miss a couple of days stay in Essaouira to finish your Moroccan adventure. This beach destination is a great little medina town that impresses all.  Book a beautiful riad  for a true Moroccan experience, ride horses on the beach, walk the ramparts and book a surf.  

Morocco vacation in January is always a good idea! 

Recommended by Sharon of My Free Range Family

Best countries to visit in January – continued

In the final stretch of this epic list! A few more fun cities and some of the best beach vacations in January yet, let’s wrap up this list with a bang!💥

Average temp:  high 33, low 26 Fly into:  Stockholm Arlanda Airport, Stockholm-Arlanda

If you’re looking for a vacation in January, then the beautiful country of Sweden is a fantastic option! With spectacular cities, unspoiled forests, and breathtaking lakes, it’s no surprise that over 7.5 million people visit every year. 

Sweden will take your breath away no matter what time of year you visit, but there’s something special about visiting in January! 

During this time of year, the ground is often covered in snow and temperatures will be well below freezing, although that’s the perfect excuse to treat yourself to a hot chocolate and a Fika!

Sweden is one of the best places to visit in January to extend that ‘festive feeling’ as many of the winter palaces might still be running, especially earlier in the month. 

Sweden’s largest airport is Stockholm Arlanda which is just 39 km (24 miles) from the capital city. This often means Stockholm is the first port of call, and you’ll find tons of fascinating things to do here – especially in January! 

First of all, you’ll have plenty of ice skating opportunities but the main spot to visit is Kungsträdgården ! Then, you can head to Hammarbybacken if you’re looking to ski or head out on a winter cruise of the archipelago! 

If you’re staying in the capital, there’s no shortage of accommodation options but one of the best hotels in the city is Radisson Blu Waterfront Hotel .

Other fantastic places to visit in Sweden during January include Swedish Lapland, Abisko National Park, Gothenburg, and Salen. 

Just keep in mind that if you’re traveling through Sweden during this time of year, you’ll need plenty of layers . You’ll also want to indulge in a warm drink at every opportunity and fill your belly with delicious Swedish meatballs!

Recommended by Jack & Abbie of A Couples Calling

27. Grenada (another awesome contender for best place to vacation in January)

Average temp:  high 86, low 74 Fly into:  Maurice Bishop International Airport, Grenada

The island of Grenada in the Caribbean is one of the best islands to visit in January. Located at the southern end of the chain of Caribbean islands, Grenada is still rooted deeply in culture and nature to experience, without a whole lot of big chain influences.

January is an amazing time to visit, as the temperature is roughly 86 degrees year round during the day, and the water stays nice and warm too! It’s the perfect getaway from the winter cold to enjoy warm water, beautiful beaches, waterfalls, a tropical climate and Caribbean culture.

The easiest way to get to Grenada is by flying into Maurice Bishop International Airport. Once you arrive, you can either grab a taxi (they look like small buses) or make your way to a shuttle if your accommodation offers transportation.

There’s a huge range of accommodation options, including many homestay options, more casual resorts, all the way to luxury all inclusives. My recommendation for an eco-friendly boutique hotel is the True Blue Bay Resort , while if you’re looking for something all inclusive, Spice Island Beach Resort .

January does fall within Grenada’s high season, so be prepared for more crowds than if you went during the rainy season (summer months).

Definitely visit one of Grenada’s Best Beaches while there, and try to take an island wide guided tour to experience waterfalls, sulphur springs, cocoa farms, local distilleries or more! Plus, the world-famous underwater attraction, snorkeling the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park is a must-do while visiting the island.

You’ll want to stay in Grenada at least a week to experience all there is to see and do! Grenada is one of the best countries to visit in January. It’s an amazing destination with the welcoming and vibrant Caribbean culture that you don’t want to miss!

Recommended by Taylor of Tea N’ Sea Travel

28. South Africa

Average temp:  high 83, low 63 Fly into:  Cape Town International Airport, Cape Town

South Africa is one of the best countries in the world for a January vacation. It’s the ideal spot to take a breath and enjoy life.

January in South Africa sees the weather at its best, particularly in the western regions. Summer below the equator is in full swing, and the air is warm and dry.

However you dream of spending your time, this sizable country is teeming with great adventures and awe-inspiring beauty just for you!  Come to South Africa to see the iconic wildlife, enjoy the most picturesque road trips of your life, or explore its astounding urban highlights. 

Or try a shark-cage dive off the coast! Whichever activity you choose, your options are countless. 

If this abundance of activities doesn’t earn South Africa a vote for the best countries to visit in January, maybe this will: all of these remarkable activities are accessible from the spectacular city of Cape Town. It’s the ultimate base for your South African vacation.

January in Cape Town provides you with the opportunity to attend the Kaapse Klopse . This colorful January 2nd street festival will give you stories to tell! You can also visit famous local treasures such as Table Mountain, the V & A Waterfront, and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, right in Cape Town . 

The Cape Town International Airport is just 20 km from the city centre, and services airlines that connect with all parts of the world. 

Finding the best home away from home for you is as easy as amazing vacation rental options. How does a seaview apartment or a country cottage sound? It’s all waiting for you!

Recommended by DJ of Introvert with Itchy Feet

29. England

Average temp:  high 45, low 35 (varies by region) Fly into:  London Heathrow Airport, London

England  is an underrated country to visit in January. It’s the perfect mix of winter wonderland and mild temperatures, depending on where you visit.

For example, Oxford and Birmingham typically see dustings of snow throughout January. You may even find enough snow a few days a year to build a small snowman!

But places like Brighton Beach will remain snow-less. There are even days London will be as sunny as in summer!

The mild temperatures attract visitors who are looking to escape the freezing cold of Canada or Scandinavia, but don’t want to pay the inflated prices of a beach vacation. Temperatures average 5C (41F).

Don’t forget to pack a light coat and some waterproof boots , as it can drizzle throughout January.

Luckily, the best things to do in the UK aren’t summer-based.

Having high tea in Covent Garden, touring Shakespeare’s birthplace in Stratford upon Avon, listening to live music at a pub, and enjoying British stand-up at local comedy houses are all great indoor activities to take advantage of.

There are plenty of ways to save money while still enjoying everything the country has to offer. For starters, take advantage of the many free museums and galleries.

You can also find cheap eats by avoiding tourist traps and sticking to local pubs. And finally, take advantage of the many cheap or free walking tours available in most cities.

The UK is easily accessible from anywhere in the world.

Major airports include London Heathrow (LHR) and London Gatwick (LGW). Stanstead is another option, but then you’ll need to take a long train journey. 

To get around, take trains for cheap day trips from London to places like Bath and Oxford.

Recommended by Nina of Nina Out and About

30. India (an underrated one on this guide for warm vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 83, low 60 (varies by region) Fly into:  Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi / Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru, Bengaluru

While India may be on your travel bucket list , January is also a great time to cross it off!

January in India means it’s dry season, so you don’t need to worry about rain like you do during monsoon season. While India is a large country, narrowing down what you want to see and do will help determine what weather you’ll face and where to fly into .

The northern part of India is home to the famous Taj Mahal. Located in Agra, the Taj Mahal can be visited via day trip from Delhi. One of the new 7 wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal’s grand and impressive architecture is stunning in real life!

In southern India, the popular towns of Bengaluru (aka Bangalore) is a busy city with so many things to do. Bangalore is famous for the Lalbagh Botanical Garden, the Bengaluru Palace, Bull Temple and Cuban Park. Nearby Mysuru (aka Mysore) is a great day trip or weekend getaway from Bangalore. Be sure to watch the lighting of the Mysore Palace – stunning!

If you’re looking for a beach destination in India, Goa is the place to be. With gentle waves, swaying palm trees and beautiful, relaxing hotels, Goa is a great spot to relax and unwind in India. It’s truly a great destination, and one of the best countries to visit in January.

31. The Gambia

Average temp:  high 91, low 65 Fly into:  Banjul International Airport, Banjul

Perched on the west coast of Africa is a small but charming country known as The Gambia. The Gambia is renowned for its lengthy swathes of golden sand beaches, freshly caught fish and smiling locals.

The Gambia has 2 distinct seasons: the rainy season and the dry season. The dry season runs from November to May and is the best time to visit. The temperature at this time of year is pleasant – roughly 30 degrees Celsius (86 Fahrenheit) – and you can expect bright sunshine on most days.

January is also a great time of year to visit due to the country’s annual Banjul Demba Cultural Festival. Here, you’ll witness traditional music and dance performances in the country’s capital city.

The Gambia is a very small country and so only houses one international airport: Banjul International Airport.

Most visitors to The Gambia choose to base themselves in Serrekunda, a vibrant town set behind a glorious stretch of beach, fringed by lazy palm trees.

Serrekunda is a mere 30 minute drive from the airport. It’s easy to grab a taxi from the airport, or you can pre-arrange a taxi with your hotel or via a taxi company beforehand.

Alternatively, you can hire a car in The Gambia . I’d personally recommend pre-booking a taxi from a reputable company as some taxis at the airport are in questionable condition.

There are numerous hotels in Serrekunda for you to choose from but a personal favourite of mine is Luigi’s Complex. It has a very friendly and laid-back vibe and is only a short walk from the beach.

Recommended by Ella of Ella McKendrick

32. New Zealand (by far one of the best countries to visit in January)

Average temp:  high 77, low 53 (varies by region) Fly into:  Auckland International Airport, Auckland

A bucket-list destination for many, New Zealand is at the top of its game in January. This summer month brings some of the warmest temperatures in the country, delighting visitors that enjoy sunny days at the beach.

New Zealand is a surprisingly large country – a fact that many people underestimate when planning a vacation. The amount of time you have will affect the places you are able to visit, however, these are some amazing summer spots in Aotearoa.

If you’re able to include them in your itinerary, you’ll be sure to come away happy. After all, New Zealand is one of the best countries to visit in January!

Paihia is located in the Bay of Islands, and though it is beautiful at any time of year, it’s particularly vibrant during the summer season. Known for its stunning beaches, uninhabited islands, settled weather and marine life, this is a must-see in January. Kerikeri is the closest airport to Paihia, but many choose to fly into Auckland and drive up.

Moving down the North Island, the Coromandel Peninsula is another summer-time favourite for locals and visitors alike . Significant highlights include Hot Water Beach (where you can dig your own natural hot pool in the sand), Cathedral Cove and New Chums Beach, all of which are best enjoyed in the warmth of the summer season. Auckland, Hamilton and Tauranga airports all service this region.

Finally, a summertime trip to Fiordland should be on your radar. Though this area experiences a lot of rain right throughout the year, this will be your best chance at seeing it on a nice day.

When the weather is still, the mirror reflection of  Milford Sound on the water really is incomparable. Queenstown is the closest airport to Milford Sound, though many choose to stay in Te Anau.

Haere mai and welcome to Aotearoa New Zealand.

Recommended by Sarah of New Zealand Travel Tips

Average temp:  high 60, low 49 Fly into:  Malta International Airport, Malta

One of the best places to visit in January for sun is the European island of Malta . Actually, Malta is made up of 3 islands, Malta, Gozo, and Comino.

Compared to other European countries,  Malta in winter  is usually very sunny and in January temperatures can go up to 20 degrees Celsius which on a sunny day feels very pleasant.

One of the best things about going in January is that fewer tourists venture to the island which is mainly considered a summer destination. But what most people fail to realize is that it is the best time for going hiking and exploring the ancient towns.

Malta has a long history, and if you get rainy or windy days it’s perfect to explore underground where you can walk through the World War Two Shelters or discover the old catacombs in Rabat. On the other hand, if the weather is nice, you can easily go for a quick dip in the crystal-clear water.

There are numerous flights connecting Malta with the rest of Europe. In addition, you can take the boat directly from Sicily in Italy.

Getting around Malta by bus is easy, it costs 1.50 Euros for a ticket that lasts you for 2 hours (including bus changes.) On top of that, they have tap and pay so there is no need for cash.

Recommended by Linn of Brainy Backpackers

34. Turks and Caicos (another favorite on this list for best beach vacations in January)

Average temp:  high 82, low 74 Fly into:  Providenciales International Airport, Turks & Caicos Islands

Last but certainly not least is the dreamy island chain of Turks and Caicos. Definitely worthy of a spot on this list of the best countries to visit in January, Turks and Caicos has unbelievable white sand beaches with the most turquoise water you’ll ever see.

A beach destination with the right mix of good food and water activities, Turks and Caicos is a laid-back island chain where the term ‘island time’ could have been created.

The whimsical nature of the island is perfect for a January getaway when all that matters is what time you should re-apply your sunblock . (By the way, be sure to use ocean-safe sunblock at all times to protect marine life.)

Staying on the main island of Providenciales doesn’t have to break the bank, either. It’s possible to do Turks and Caicos on a budget , without sacrificing a good time on the island chain.

While there, be sure to visit the best beaches on Turks and Caicos . Grace Bay Beach is the most popular, but moving away from the busy tourist spot will provide you with amazing views where you *might* just be the only one there.

Enjoy a dreamy island vacation in Turks and Caicos!

Whew! What a list! From the best beach vacations in January to frozen winter wonderlands, this was a fun guide to put together. So….are you ready to book your flights yet?

Let’s review that list one more time, in a more succinct fashion….

Best places to vacation in January

• Switzerland
• El Salvador
• Philippines
• South Africa
• New Zealand
• Turks and Caicos

Related content to read next: 30 Incredible Warm Winter Vacations USA (Say Goodbye to the Cold) 30 Best Countries to Visit in February (Fun Spots You Haven’t Thought Of) 35 Cheapest Beach Vacations: Swoon-worthy Destinations You Need to See 28 Underrated Travel Destinations in the US You Need to See 32 Awe-Inspiring Adventurous Bucket List Ideas You Gotta See to Believe

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Saturday 3rd of September 2022

Fabulous post Nikki! It just shows how many fantastic places there are for holidays in January. When I was younger I would have been tempted by the tropical islands... but now I have learned to ski, places like Austria and Switzerland for would be the best part - those snowy mountain views are beeeautiful!

Tuesday 6th of September 2022

Aw I love your comment, Josy! So glad you'd do a Switzerland or Austria getaway. Both looks so stunning in wintertime!

What a fantastic list! I’m lucky to live in one of the places but I’ll keep this lost for sure for winter holidays!

Ah yes Marga, I agree you're very fortunate! Glad you found some inspiration for new destination ideas, though!

Chelsea Messina

This is such a great list of places to visit in January! I have been dying to visit Costa Rica, but I live in Michigan. So I'll be ready for the Maldives by then!

Ha love it! Either of those places sound perfect during a winter in Michigan!

Barcelona in January: Weather & Things to Do

With fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and cooler weather, visiting Barcelona in January can be absolutely dreamy. It’s a great time of year to take the opportunity to cozy up in the city’s many tapas bars, indoor markets, and museums and galleries.

As the city awakens to the new year, its streets are adorned with a festive spirit, while a cooler and more tranquil atmosphere envelops the iconic landmarks. This makes it an ideal time to explore the city’s rich blend of history, culture, and culinary delights.

So, although the best time to visit Barcelona is often considered the summertime, exploring the city in winter can be just as magical. Let’s dive in.

Barcelona in January: Weather

Although Barcelona’s winters are considered relatively mild when compared with the rest of Europe, the weather in Barcelona in January is pretty chilly.

January sees average daily highs of 59 ℉ (15 ℃ ) and evening lows of 48 ℉ (9 ℃ ). January isn’t a rainy month in Barcelona, with the city seeing only four or five days of rain over the entire month. During this time, Barcelona is moderately humid, with an average of 68% relative humidity.

Quick Tip: Pack a medium-to-heavy coat, warm sweaters, and plenty of layered clothing so you can still be comfortable when indoors.

Things to Do in Barcelona in January

Here are six unmissable activities to do in Barcelona in January.

1. Take a Traditional Cooking Class

Taking a local cooking class is a fantastic way to get yet another sense of Barcelona’s vibrancy and cultural dimension. Escape the outdoor chill by trying your hand at a paella cooking experience or a cocktail masterclass with tapas . You’re bound to leave with a full stomach, additional knowledge about Spanish food, and some impressive skills to showcase back home.

2. Dine at the Indoor Mercado de La Boqueria

There’s little better in winter than a divine time spent indoors, eating and drinking your way through the evening. From fresh fish to tasty tapas to piping-hot patatas bravas, you certainly won’t leave hungry from La Boqueria. Rated as one of the best (if not the best) food markets in Barcelona , it’s the perfect spot to grab a quick takeaway or mingle by the countertops.

3. Watch a Flamenco Show

After a long day of exploring the city, prepare to unwind and be enthralled at a live Flamenco show . Familiarize yourself with Flamenco’s Andalusian flare as you feast on delicious tapas and drink sumptuous sangria. Flamenco dancers are known for their passion and originality, so expect a performance like you’ve never witnessed before.

4. Tour Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia

If you are intrigued by the works of Antoni Gaudi or, at the very least, love colorful mosaics, head over to Park Güell and Sagrada Familia. Thanks to fewer crowds in the month of January, you’ll be able to soak in these architectural wonders at your own leisure, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Plus, some great photo opportunities. It’s always a good idea to organize your Park Güell admission ticket beforehand, as well as your Sagrada Familia entry .

5. Admire the Moco Museum

When it comes to Barcelona’s art galleries , the Moco is a clear stand-out. Hidden within its Gothic facade, this museum is home to one of the best contemporary street art collections in all of Spain. It houses works from the masters themselves, such as Bansky, Warhol, and Haring. Feel free to snap pictures throughout the museum as you wander through its maze of   innovative and interactive artworks.

6. Venture on a Day Trip from the City

Fortunately, day trips from Barcelona are not few and far between. Tour Montserrat on a half-day adventure, or check out this fantastic Girona, Figueres and Dalí Museum Day Tour . Even though Barcelona itself is a bustling hub of activity, there is so much to see just beyond the city.

Barcelona Festivals in January

Here are three main events you won’t want to miss in Barcelona in January.

• The Three Kings Parade on the 5th of January sees presents handed out to children. It’s a big and colorful parade that’s bound to bring a smile to your face.
• From January 7th, shopaholics better prepare for the Rebajas Sale – the start of the winter discounts.
• The Trest Tombs Parade on the 17th of January is a musical parade of animals (donkeys, horses, mules) in honor to celebrate the patron saint of animals, St. Anthony.

FAQs About Barcelona in January

When visiting Barcelona in January, here are a few frequently asked questions to consider.

Does It Snow in Barcelona in January?

No, it doesn’t snow in Barcelona in January. Although it is very unlikely to see snowfall in the city, you may see snow on the distant mountains. This is very rare, though.

Is Barcelona Lively in January?

Yes! Just because Barcelona in January doesn’t attract the summer masses of tourists, it doesn’t mean the city isn’t still full of life and energy during this time. You’ll experience a different side to Barcelona that is still lively and packed with local flare.

Is It Worth Going to Barcelona in January?

Yes, the city is definitely worth visiting in January. Barcelona’s vibrancy will shine through, and it will be accompanied by fewer crowds, cheaper prices, and better accommodation deals.

Wrapping Up: Barcelona, Spain, in January

Even though Barcelona temperatures in January may not be particularly beach-friendly, it’s still a fantastic time to visit the city if you’re up for a snug, (mostly) crowd-free time.

In fact, one might even argue that you’ll experience more of the city by cozying up in warm nooks and tapas bars and taking traditional cooking classes. You can also browse at your own leisure when it comes to shops, museums, and galleries due to the lack of crowds and long lines. Overall, a visit in January will be more on the relaxing side than, say, a trip in July or December.

If visiting the Catalan capital in January appeals to you, be sure to check out these fantastic castle hotels in Barcelona to elevate your winter stay.

Barcelona in May: Weather & Things to Do

Barcelona in April: Weather & Things to Do

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Barcelona in February: Weather & Things to Do

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Spain in January

As one year ends and the new one arrives, many thoughts turn to the fresh travel opportunities and the sun-bathed months ahead. Yet, why wait? Spain in January offers up a whole new way of experiencing a country, complete with unique festivals, surprising climates and far fewer holidaymaking crowds. 

Visiting Spain in January brings a fresh and exciting take on the country. During this time of the year, your perception of this country will be turned on its head. From winter wonderlands across its many mountainous regions to the authentic Spanish experience in the quiet world-famous cities, Spain in January has it all.

So, let us take a closer look at travelling through Spain in January and what the first month of the year can offer to your Spanish experience.      

Post Contents

Where to Go in Spain in January

Sierra nevada, costa del sol, gastrofestival of madrid, fiesta de san sebastián, three kings festival  , weather in spain in january, things to know before you go.

Although the weather in Spain during January is very temperamental, with temperatures dropping to their lowest point, this month also offers ideal conditions for experiencing some of Spain’s most iconic locations.

For an authentic winter experience in Spain, the southern city of Grenada is the place to be. Only a few miles south of the city is one of Europe’s best-kept skiing secrets, the Sierra Nevada mountains. The most southerly ski resort in all of Europe, the Sierra Nevada mountains in January provide perfect skiing conditions. 

Yet, it’s not just the snowy peaks that come into bloom during January. Major cities such as Madrid, Barcelona and Seville hold a string of enchanting festive events. During the first week of January, these cities hold celebrations in honour of Three Kings Day (Dia de Los Reyes). 

Also known as the Epiphany, this is Spain’s version of Christmas Day. Every year on the evening of January 5th, Spanish towns and cities are busy with colourful parades for Dia de Los Reyes, or Three Kings’ Day, which commemorates the appearance of the three wise men in Bethlehem following the birth of Jesus. From the idyllic wilderness to the inner city, Spain in January leaves you no time to get bored. 

What to Do / Best Places to Visit / Unique Experiences in Spain in January 

The Sierra Nevada mountains of southern Spain are one of the best places to visit in Spain during January. Although famous skiing destinations such as the Alps get the most attention, ski resorts across the Sierra Nevada mountains have put Spanish skiing on the map.

With over sixty miles of marked trails for skiing and some of the longest sunlit days, Sierra Nevada has the longest skiing season in all of Europe. It also has the advantage of being in southern Spain . This means you can enjoy mild weather at the base of the mountains after a day’s skiing on the slopes.  

During the more popular months of the year, the Spanish capital of Madrid can become a little overwhelming. With soaring temperatures and massive crowds, it’s hard to get the best out of this iconic European city.

Madrid in January , however, opens up this European metropolis and allows you to get a truly authentic experience. With the Gastrofestival in full swing, Madrid has become a foodie’s paradise. Not only this, but you can also explore the city’s many attractions without the sweltering heat and overwhelming tourist crowds. 

Synonymous with sunny beach holidays, you may be surprised to learn how great the Costa del Sol in January can be. With long days of sunlight and temperatures still hovering around the 15°C to 20°C mark, spending January along Spain’s “coast of the sun” is a great way to start your year.

Aside from its long stretches of sandy beaches, the Costa del Sol is also home to more quaint hillside villages such as Mijas and Ronda. In the January cool afternoons, hiking up to these villages gives you an insight into humble Spanish village life.  

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Festivals / Special Events

Visiting Spain in January is the perfect time of the year for lovers of Spanish food. The capital Madrid bursts into food heaven with the annual Gastrofestival in full swing. This annual festival showcases the very best of Madrid’s food scene, with each neighbourhood of the city providing its own take on the festival.

From restaurants, bars, food stalls and everything in between, the Gastrofestival combines a love of Spanish food with a Spanish artistic scene. This means you can enjoy a hearty bowl of Cocido Madrileño while watching a singing and dancing live performance. 

The festival of San Sebastian takes place at the end of January in Spain. Nestled on Spain’s northern coast, the Basque city of San Sebastian celebrates its patron saint in true Basque style. The origins of the festival date back to the early 19th century, when Napoleon’s French troops invaded the city.

While the celebrating French soldiers played their war drums into the city, the Donostiarras, as the inhabitants of San Sebastian are known, replied with drum beats of their own. Today, this event is recreated with over 100 bands taking part in a large scale drumming performance.

Celebrated all over Spain, the Three Kings Festival is known as one of the holiest days in the Catholic calendar. Celebrating the arrival of the three wise men in Bethlehem after Jesus’ birth, the festival takes the form of street parades and costumed reenactments of the three wise men’s arrival.

Although celebrated all over Spain in the first week of January, cities such as Barcelona and Madrid are famed for their excellent Three Kings Festival celebrations. During The Kings Festival here, the parade is so extravagant that it blocks the whole city and takes hours for the procession to pass. During this, candies are thrown to the crowds and local children give their wishlists to the Kings. 

Planning to Visit Spain in January?

Designer Journeys’ network of in-destination Local Designers will use their expert knowledge, local insight and travel planning skills to design your ultimate Spanish experience. Begin designing your journey today!

Although Spain in January won’t provide you with the perfect sunny weather for topping up your tan, the overall conditions are not as bad as you would expect for the peak of winter.

Travelling through Spain’s northern Galicia, ​​Asturias, and Basque regions will bring a number of overcast days, with a higher chance of rain. On the other hand, the southern regions of Andalusia and Murcia will still experience mild days – temperatures settle between 16°C and 20°C mark during the day.   

Higher altitude areas of Spain in January, such as the Sierra Nevada mountains, can receive quite heavy snowfall. This only adds to its allure when it comes to winter landscapes and winter sports such as snowboarding and skiing.  

• The currency in Spain is the Euro. At the time of writing, USD$1 is equivalent to €0.93.
• Travellers from outside of the EU will require a short-stay visa: this is the general visa for tourists and allows you to stay and travel through Spain for 90 days.
• Eating practices in Spain usually happen quite late in the day. Lunch is eaten at around 2 pm, and dinner can be eaten as late as 9 pm.
• Most shops and businesses close between 2 pm and 4 pm; this is known as the siesta.
• Spanish isn’t the only language spoken in Spain. Catalan is the primary language in Catalonia, Basque is spoken in the northern Basque region and Galician is used in Galicia, northwestern Spain.

Travelling through Spain in January is a truly unique experience and will transform how you see this country. From its deep routed Christain festivals to its stunning winter wonderland landscapes, Spain in January appears like a whole different nation. To see what Spain in January has to offer, book a customisable tour through Spain with Designer Journeys , perfectly curated to match your every need.

Matthew Lewis

Hi! I’m Matt, a UK-based writer with a passion for travel, music and history. After spending my formative years in the world of music and drama, I set my sights on finally seeing what was beyond the horizon. Spending over a year exploring South East Asia and beyond, I've taken all that I've seen and experienced and aim to excite others to make the same plunge! When I'm not spinning the globe searching for my next adventure, you’ll find me in the studio with guitar in hand.

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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.

Spain's top holiday destinations for 2024

From city weekends to island escapes, here's where to go in Spain

The country is home to various island groups, too. The Balearics, consisting of Mallorca , Menorca, Ibiza and lesser-visited Formentera, are perfect holiday choices. Ibiza may have a rowdy reputation, but in reality the island has a much more serene side and Dalt Vila, its hilltop old town, is beautiful.

And Mallorca may be a more popular choice, but Menorca is just as captivating, with its charming port towns and rural retreats – we love Villa Le Blanc Gran Meliá on the Santo Tomàs seafront.

Over in the volcanic Canary Islands , there are more sunny Spanish holiday destinations to choose from, including old favourites Lanzarote and Tenerife , the latter of which has a dream hotel for foodies in the form of the Ritz-Carlton Abama .

And in the heart of Andalucia, Hacienda de San Rafael is the perfect base if you're hoping to explore Seville and its imposing Gothic cathedral.

Read on for the best destinations in Spain for a summer holiday.

For a holiday in Spain with a more dramatic than average landscape, try Lanzarote, with its volcanoes, lava fields, black and red earth, and intriguing rock formations. It also has whitewashed houses, palm groves and, of course, beautiful beaches. Away from the coast, don’t miss the charming villages inland.

The island has been designated a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO – to really appreciate the Mars-like scenery, head into the Timanfaya National Park, or book a trip to the Montañas del Fuego (which means Mountains of Fire) to see the volcanic cones, curious geology and lava fields.

Where to stay: In the smart Playa del Cable area of the island’s capital Arrecife, Hotel Villa Vik is an adults-only boutique retreat where you’ll feel like part of the family.

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It’s not hard to see why Mallorca is such a classic Spanish holiday destination for Brits. The island has it all, from a vibrant capital and gorgeous beach resorts, to the spectacular Serra de Tramuntana mountain range, lively port towns such as Sóller and inland villages favoured by artists such as Deià.

Palma has a charming old town, an imposing Gothic cathedral and lots of excellent restaurants. From there, you can catch an old-fashioned tram all the way to Sóller for lunch at one of the restaurants lining the harbour.

Where to stay: A Belmond outpost in Deià in the island’s north-west, La Residencia is one of the most luxurious hotels on Mallorca, with peaceful gardens, a superb spa and several hundred works by local painters.

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Another island within the Canary archipelago, Tenerife has a landscape that’s as mesmerising and unusual as its counterpart Lanzarote. It’s the biggest of the Canary Islands, which are off the coast of West Africa, and home to the looming Mount Teide, a dormant volcano and the loftiest peak in Spain.

As it’s a volcanic island, some of the beaches have black sand, but there are regular golden shores, too.

Where to stay: The Ritz-Carlton Abama is the ultimate place for fine-dining on Tenerife, since it’s the proud owner of several Michelin stars, spread across its many restaurants, which include Basque and Japanese options.

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A cultural city with its own beach, Barcelona is a Spanish holiday destination that lets you combine a city and seaside break. High-brow highlights include the Picasso museum, the art nouveau La Sagrada Familia and Gaudi’s other great Barcelona work, Park Güell.

After winding your way through the Gothic Quarter’s narrow medieval lanes (and its restaurants and bars), you can put your feet up at the beach.

Where to stay: Close to the Passeig de Grácia, Almanac is a perfectly positioned design hotel, with a rooftop pool, bathrooms made with Ibizan marble and free minibars in the guest rooms.

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Another Balearic beauty, Menorca gets slightly less footfall than its neighbours Mallorca and Ibiza, but it shouldn’t be overlooked. Stay at a rustic finca on a farm and enjoy the bucolic backdrop; or check in to one of its many renovated historic hideaways and boutique guesthouses. Menorca’s retty port towns include Mahón and Ciutadella.

This wild, rugged island has a serene, sleepy pace. Enjoy the peaceful pine-lined coast with its sandy beaches and rocky coves, and the island’s towns set above ancient harbours.

Where to stay: Villa Le Blanc Gran Meliá is a five-star resort steps from the sand on the south coast, with white-washed architecture, an infinity pool surrounded by bars and restaurants, and a spa where you can book in for Anne Semonin treatments.

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On the mainland, Marbella is one of the major holiday destinations within the southern province of Andalusia. The Costa del Sol resort has a backdrop of the Sierra Blanca mountains and a vast 27-kilometre stretch of shoreline. As well as its beautiful beaches, the area is known for its golf courses.

The coast is also home to the aptly named Golden Mile (a stretch of some serious real estate), which leads down to Puerto Banús marina, with its staggering super-yachts and fancy restaurants.

Where to stay: If you’re aiming to eat well while you’re in town, booking a stay at the Nobu outpost will be a sensible move, especially if you want to enjoy the brand’s famous black cod miso.

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It may have a somewhat rowdy reputation (which isn’t totally unjustified), but there’s another side to Ibiza, away from the super-clubs (of which there are indeed many) on the San Antonio strip. The island has long-attracted spiritual sorts, here for the magnetism and the sunsets, which are a ritual every evening.

In the hillside Dalt Vila (or Old Town), stroll the cobbled streets, or head to quieter villages, such as Santa Gertrudis, which has brilliant boutiques, traditional bars and excellent restaurants such as Bottega Il Buco.

Where to stay: If you’re here for hedonism in the form of food, book a stay at Oku , which has a superb Japanese restaurant where the chef is known to wander over to your seat to cook tableside. It has a robata grill and a raw bar, as well as a sake selection, for added authenticity.

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Often overlooked by tourists for Barcelona, Spain’s capital may not have beaches but it has plenty of landmarks, from its wide boulevards and pristine parks to its incredible culture. At the Prado Museum, visitors can admire works by Spanish masters including Velázquez and Goya.

Another highlight of Madrid is the Plaza Mayor, the city’s main square, which dates back to the 15th century. The grand Royal Palace is also worth a visit – in between tapas pit-stops, of course.

Where to stay: Rosewood Villa Magna is on the Paseo de la Castellana, a major thoroughfare that runs through the city, so you’ll be perfectly placed to explore the main sights.

Gran Canaria

Another holiday destination in Spain that’s part of the far-flung Canary Islands, Gran Canaria has a similar landscape to its neighbours, with black-lava beaches (as well as white-sand ones), a colourful capital, Las Palmas, and a mountainous interior.

For buzzy nightlife, head to Playa del Inglés on the southern coast; or marvel at the scenery of the Maspalomas Dunes overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Where to stay: Salobre Hotel Resort & Serenity is a five-star resort that has two 18-hole golf courses – and there are buggies ready for you at reception. The peaceful Maspalomas retreat also has an excellent wellness centre, a shuttle service to whisk you to the beach and cabanas around the pool.

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There are lots of lovely places to visit in Andalucia, but Seville is one of the most popular and with good reason. For a start, warm weather is all but guaranteed – the Spaniards don’t call it the ‘Frying Pan’ for nothing.

The city’s old town and former Jewish quarter, Barrio de Santa Cruz, is home to the huge Gothic cathedral, the Alcázar Palace and the La Giralda bell tower. For a lively night out, visit one of Seville’s famous flamenco shows or a hole-in-the-wall bar. And if you’re hoping to stockpile ceramics, stop by the Tirana neighbourhood, which has lots of pottery studios.

Where to stay: An hour or so’s drive south of the city (but worth it for the peace and quiet), Hacienda de San Rafael is an 18th-century hideaway on an olive estate in the Andalusian countryside. It’s roughly halfway between Seville and Jerez, so you’ll be able to visit both cities during your stay.

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Expat issues ‘complicated’ travel warning for Brits holidaying to Spain this summer

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If you’re counting down the days to your summer holiday to Spain , you might want to mark down a few dates on your calender.

From Barcelona to the Costa del Sol, we all know Spain is much loved fly and flop destination for Brits – a staggering 17.8 million UK tourists flocked to the country in 2023.

However, one cultural difference could catch unsuspecting travelers off guard: bank holidays.

While bank holidays in the UK are mostly on Mondays (with a few exceptions such as Good Friday and Christmas ) Spain has them across various days of the week.

Yep, Spaniards aren’t always given the gift of a long weekend, as supermarkets, restaurants and clubs shut their doors for numerous celebrated days across the year that occur on any and all weekdays.

This fact caught Stephanie Saint Remy , a YouTube content creator, off guard, when she moved to the country. The revelation led her to her share the knowledge with those planning to travel like her.

Stephanie remarked that ‘the amount of times I’ve gone into a supermarket on a Wednesday only to find that it was closed, is incredible.’

Far from ideal if you’re looking to pick up those all-important holiday snacks (Lays crisps anyone?)

Stephanie also warned that tourists and residents alike may also be caught out by the fact that not all bank holidays are the same across Spain, with certain events only happening in one or two communities.

She said the situation can be particularly ‘complicated’ because it’s hard to find much information on the internet. Thankfully she’s come up with a solution: ‘If I go into my local supermarket they’ll have their monthly opening hours printed.’ This indicates which days are bank holidays. Genius.

Stephanie also suggests creating a timetable for the events occurring during your stay in Spain to keep yourself in the loop.

Prime holiday season is rapidly approaching, so what events should you note down if you’re travelling in the coming months? Fear not, for the hard work has been done for you.

Here are the public holidays across Spain for July and August (although like Stephanie says, these vary from region to region):

• Thursday 25th July – Both the National Day of Galicia and St. James’s Day, impacting Galicia, Basque Country, Cantabria, Madrid and Navarre.
• Monday 5th August – Our Lady of Africa, taking place in Ceuta.
• Thursday 15th August – The Assumption of Mary, a national bank holiday.

For those travelling in the later months of the year to escape the floods of other tourists and the chill settling in over the UK, all dates can be found online .

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What can you expect to do on these holidays within your holiday? Research into the individual events and how they are celebrated as you might find yourself in the midst of a street party.

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Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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