Weather in Spain in December

December sees Spain shift into winter. Snowfall is common in mountainous regions, and this is one of Spain’s wetter months, especially in the north and Atlantic Coast. While there are regional temperature variations, overall the weather in Spain in December is cool-to-mild. In fact, Spain’s December temperatures are among the warmest in Europe, with Southern Spain and the Canary Islands experiencing milder conditions. Intrigued? Read on for detail on the weather in Spain in December.

Spain in December at a glance

• Average lows: 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C); average highs: 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C).
• Explore cities in cool-to-mild climes, or head to the mountains for winter sports.
• Rain is pretty frequent in the north.
• Expect small low season crowds, except around Christmas and New Year.

Is December a good time to visit Spain?

As always, the answer to that question depends on what you most want from your vacation. 

Though often seen as one of the best summer destinations in Europe, it’s true to say Spain has plenty to keep folks happy in winter. 

That’s especially the case in December, when seasonal markets and events add more than a dash of magic to already-charming cities, towns and villages.

Overall, the weather in Spain in December is pleasantly mild compared with other parts of Europe. That said, come prepared for temperatures and some rain, particularly in the north.

While December is a good time to visit Spain if you’re keen to explore cultural attractions in crowd-free conditions, it's a wonderful winter sports destination, with Andalusia’s Sierra Nevada one of the most popular — and scenic — ski destinations.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for warm weather, consider visiting the Canary Islands in December, or Valencia, both of which are pretty great winter sun destinations.

Keen to visit, but less keen on planning? Browse our customisable Spain itineraries, and contact our local experts to start curating your dream trip to Spain.

Average daily temperatures in December

Not as cold as January or February, the weather in Spain in December heralds an average low temperature range of 35°F to 50°F (2°C to 10°C), with average highs spanning 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). 

At the same time, there are regional variations in temperature, as revealed right below.

Central Spain (Madrid)

• Highs: 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C)
• Lows: 35°F to 40°F (2°C to 5°C)

Thinking of visiting Madrid? Arm yourself with our itinerary for the perfect weekend, and read up on the best areas to stay in Madrid.

North-eastern Spain (Barcelona, Catalonia)

• Highs: 55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C)
• Lows: 42°F to 47°F (6°C to 8°C)

Planning a vacation in Barcelona? Discover the best areas to stay.

Southern Spain (Seville, Granada)

• Highs: 60°F to 65°F (16°C to 18°C)
• Lows: 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C)

Keen to uncover the best of Andalucía in Southern Spain? Check out our customisable Andalucia Explored itinerary.

Eastern Spain (Valencia)

• Highs: 60°F to 65°F (16°C to 18°C)
• Lows: 45°F to 50°F (7°C to 10°C)

Discover why Valencia is such a great weekend break destination, and see our Valencia City Break itinerary. 

Northern Spain (Bilbao and Basque Country)

• Highs: 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C)
• Lows: 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C)

Want a picture of the weather in Spain around the year? Read up on the best time to go to Spain.

What about the crowds and cost?

With the exception of the holiday period around Christmas and New Year’s, December is part of a low season for tourism in Spain.

This means, as a general rule, major cities like Madrid, Barcelona and Seville will be less busy, making visiting popular attractions all the more pleasant. 

Think smaller crowds and cool-to-mild weather in comparison with the overcrowded conditions and stifling heat of the peak summer months.

That said, ski resorts and winter holiday destinations in the Pyrenees will be busy.

When it comes to costs, sitting in low season, you can expect to pay a little less for flights and accommodation in early December, but prices rise during the Christmas and New Year holidays.

On a budget? Find out about fab free things to do in Madrid, and Barca’s best things to do for FREE!

Or, if you’re not fixed on Spain, discover the best places to visit in Europe on a budget.

What to do in Spain in December

Here are a few ideas for making your December trip to Spain all the more memorable.

Feast on festive cheer and food in scenic cities

Through December, cities Cities like Madrid and Barcelona host popular Christmas markets, such as the Fira de Santa Llúcia in Barcelona and the Plaza Mayor market in Madrid.

Of course, this being a low season month, you could also take advantage of the smaller crowds to get up close to top attractions in Spanish cities, including the Alhambra in Granada, Barcelona’s La Sagrada Familia, and Madrid’s Royal Palace.

We also really rate Cordoba, with its incredible UNESCO-designated Historic Centre.

Editor’s tip: to take in five of Spain’s most remarkable cities — Madrid, Granada, Seville, Valencia and Barcelona – without the hassle of planning, book our customisable Iconic Cities of Spain trip.

December is also a great time to take a food-themed trip to Spain. For example, Seville is a divine destination for culinary experiences.

Enjoy winter sports

December is the start of the ski season in Spain’s mountainous regions, with Sierra Nevada in Andalusia one of the most popular ski destinations, thanks to its excellent snow conditions and sublime scenery.

The Pyrenees also offer a range of winter sports activities, including skiing and snowboarding.

Escape to the sunny Spanish Canary Islands

If you’re seeking warmer weather in December, consider traveling to the Canary Islands.

With temperatures averaging 70°F to 75°F (21°C to 24°C), the likes of Tenerife, Gran Canaria and Lanzarote offer the chance to escape colder climes to enjoy beautiful beaches and outdoor activities like hiking.

For example, you could walk your way around Gran Canaria’s epic landscapes in wonderfully warm weather before blissing out on some of the island’s best beaches. 

Want more inspiration? Read up on the best things to do in Spain.

Festivals and events in Spain in December

December delivers a few festivals and events that’ll enhance your vacation with festive flair and authenticity.

• Christmas markets: Spain’s Christmas markets are a must-visit in December. Notable examples include the Fira de Santa Llúcia in Barcelona and the Plaza Mayor market in Madrid.
• Nochevieja (New Year’s Eve): New Year’s Eve in Spain is celebrated with street parties, fireworks, and the tradition of eating twelves grapes at midnight, one for each chime of the clock.

Ready for your dream trip to Spain?

Before booking your dream trip to Spain, browse our Spain itineraries for inspiration. Using our tailor-made trip platform means you’ll cut out the hassle of planning. 

Here are a few sample itineraries:

• Andalucía Explored (9 days): discover the best of Andalucía's breath-taking palaces, churches, museums, vineyards (and more) on a culture-packed 9-day trip that also showcases incredible natural landscapes. 
• Gems in Southern Spain (16 days): starting out in Seville, this will see you exploring Cordoba, Granada, Ronda, Nerja, Malaga and the Costa del Sol in immersive, leisurely style.
• The Lands of Wine from Madrid (5 days): offering a deep dive into two of Spain’s most esteemed wine regions — Ribera del Duero and La Rioja — this includes tours of four famous wineries.

Inspired? Contact our local experts to start curating your own dream trip to Spain.