Spain, a country known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, is a popular tourist destination throughout the year. However, many travelers often wonder if it’s a good time to visit Spain in December, considering the cold winter weather and potential holiday crowds. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the pros and cons of visiting Spain in December, helping you make an informed decision about your next trip.
December is a great time to experience Spain’s festive atmosphere, with many cities and towns decorated with lights, decorations, and Christmas markets. The cooler weather also makes it an ideal time to explore Spain’s indoor attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites. Additionally, December is a great time to enjoy Spain’s famous cuisine, with many traditional dishes and drinks available during the holiday season.
However, December can also be a challenging time to visit Spain, with cold weather, potential crowds, and limited daylight hours. In this guide, we’ll delve into the details of visiting Spain in December, including the best places to visit, things to do, and tips for making the most of your trip.
Weather in Spain in December
December is one of the coldest months in Spain, with average temperatures ranging from 9°C (48°F) in the north to 14°C (57°F) in the south. The weather can be quite chilly, especially in the mornings and evenings, so it’s essential to pack warm clothing, including coats, gloves, and scarves.
The southern regions of Spain, such as the Costa del Sol and the Costa Blanca, tend to be warmer than the northern regions, making them a better option for those who prefer milder weather. However, even in the south, the temperatures can drop significantly at night, so it’s still essential to pack warm clothing.
It’s also worth noting that December is one of the wettest months in Spain, with an average of 12 rainy days throughout the month. The rain can be heavy at times, so it’s essential to pack waterproof clothing and shoes.
Regional Weather Patterns in Spain in December
Here’s a breakdown of the regional weather patterns in Spain in December:
| Region | Average Temperature (°C) | Average Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|
| North (Galicia, Asturias, Cantabria) | 9°C (48°F) | 150 mm (5.9 in) |
| Centre (Madrid, Castile and León) | 10°C (50°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) |
| South (Andalusia, Costa del Sol) | 14°C (57°F) | 50 mm (2 in) |
| Islands (Canary Islands, Balearic Islands) | 18°C (64°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) |
Best Places to Visit in Spain in December
While December can be a challenging time to visit Spain, there are still many amazing places to explore. Here are some of the best places to visit in Spain in December: (See Also: Best Time to Visit Mexico for Good Weather? Perfect Climate Guarantee)
Madrid
Madrid is a great place to visit in December, with many festive markets and events taking place throughout the city. The city’s famous Christmas market, Mercado de Navidad, is a must-visit, with over 200 stalls selling everything from traditional crafts to delicious food and drink.
Things to Do in Madrid in December
- Visit the Mercado de Navidad Christmas market
- Explore the city’s many museums and galleries
- Take a stroll through the Retiro Park, which is beautifully decorated during the holiday season
- Enjoy a traditional Spanish Christmas dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants
Barcelona
Barcelona is another great place to visit in December, with many festive events and activities taking place throughout the city. The city’s famous La Rambla is decorated with lights and decorations, making it a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the holiday atmosphere.
Things to Do in Barcelona in December
- Visit the La Rambla Christmas market
- Explore the city’s many museums and galleries
- Take a stroll along the beach, which is less crowded than during the summer months
- Enjoy a traditional Catalan Christmas dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants
Seville
Seville is a great place to visit in December, with many festive events and activities taking place throughout the city. The city’s famous Christmas market, Mercado de Navidad, is a must-visit, with over 100 stalls selling everything from traditional crafts to delicious food and drink.
Things to Do in Seville in December
- Visit the Mercado de Navidad Christmas market
- Explore the city’s many museums and galleries
- Take a stroll through the Parque de María Luisa, which is beautifully decorated during the holiday season
- Enjoy a traditional Andalusian Christmas dinner at one of the city’s many restaurants
Things to Do in Spain in December
December is a great time to enjoy Spain’s many cultural and festive events. Here are some of the top things to do in Spain in December:
Christmas Markets
Spain has many amazing Christmas markets, with everything from traditional crafts to delicious food and drink. Some of the top Christmas markets in Spain include:
- Mercado de Navidad in Madrid
- La Rambla Christmas market in Barcelona
- Mercado de Navidad in Seville
- Christmas market in Granada
Christmas Concerts and Shows
Spain has many amazing Christmas concerts and shows, with everything from classical music to traditional flamenco. Some of the top Christmas concerts and shows in Spain include:
- Christmas concert at the Royal Palace in Madrid
- Flamenco show at the Tablao Cordobés in Seville
- Classical music concert at the Palau de la Música in Barcelona
- Christmas show at the Teatro Real in Madrid
Winter Festivals
Spain has many amazing winter festivals, with everything from traditional folk dancing to delicious food and drink. Some of the top winter festivals in Spain include: (See Also: Best Time of Year to Visit Hilton Head South Carolina – Island Paradise)
- Winter festival in Granada
- Winter festival in Valencia
- Winter festival in Málaga
- Winter festival in Alicante
Tips for Visiting Spain in December
Visiting Spain in December can be a bit challenging, but with some planning and preparation, you can make the most of your trip. Here are some tips for visiting Spain in December:
Packing
December can be quite chilly in Spain, so it’s essential to pack warm clothing, including coats, gloves, and scarves. You should also pack waterproof clothing and shoes, as the rain can be heavy at times.
Essential Items to Pack
- Warm coat and gloves
- Scarf and hat
- Waterproof shoes
- Umbrella
- Power adapter
Accommodation
December is a popular time to visit Spain, so it’s essential to book your accommodation in advance. Consider staying in a hotel or apartment that’s centrally located and has good access to public transportation.
Types of Accommodation
- Hotels
- Apartment rentals
- Hostels
- B&Bs
Transportation
Spain has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses, trains, and metro lines connecting most cities and towns. Consider purchasing a public transportation card or using a ride-sharing service to get around.
Types of Transportation
- Buses
- Trains
- Metro
- Ride-sharing services
Recap
Visiting Spain in December can be a bit challenging, but with some planning and preparation, you can make the most of your trip. From the festive atmosphere to the delicious food and drink, there’s something for everyone in Spain in December. Here are the key points to remember:
Key Points
- December is a great time to experience Spain’s festive atmosphere
- The weather can be quite chilly, so pack warm clothing
- Book your accommodation in advance to avoid high prices
- Consider purchasing a public transportation card or using a ride-sharing service to get around
FAQs
Is it worth visiting Spain in December?
Yes, December is a great time to visit Spain, with many festive events and activities taking place throughout the country. The weather can be quite chilly, but the festive atmosphere and delicious food and drink make it a great time to visit. (See Also: Best Time of Year to Visit Hurghada? Discover the Secrets)
What are the best places to visit in Spain in December?
Some of the best places to visit in Spain in December include Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, and Granada. These cities offer a range of festive events and activities, including Christmas markets, concerts, and shows.
What should I pack for a trip to Spain in December?
It’s essential to pack warm clothing, including coats, gloves, and scarves, as the weather can be quite chilly. You should also pack waterproof clothing and shoes, as the rain can be heavy at times.
Can I get around Spain in December without a car?
Yes, Spain has a well-developed public transportation system, with buses, trains, and metro lines connecting most cities and towns. Consider purchasing a public transportation card or using a ride-sharing service to get around.
What are the best restaurants in Spain in December?
Some of the best restaurants in Spain in December include those serving traditional Spanish cuisine, such as tapas and paella. Consider trying some of the local specialties, such as gazpacho and tortilla española.
