The Best Places For Winter Holidays in Spain in 2019/2020
For the returning readers among you, you probably know that Spain is one of favorite travel destinations. It’s so diverse when it comes to geography, food, and culture. But one big reason to visit the peninsula at any time of the year is its fabulous weather which makes it a great place for winter holidays in Spain.
Depending on your destination in Spain, you can expect warm temperatures until November and mild temperatures throughout winter. When living in Seville, I remember doing my grocery shopping in a t-shirt and skirt! That’s unthinkable in Northern Europe.
It’s thus crucial to wisely choose your place for a winter break in Spain. Not only do the temperatures vary a lot throughout Spain and its islands, but some destinations are more suited for you according to your traveler’s profile. Winter weather in Spain largely depends on the destination but all the places recommended in this post boast average 15-20°C in the winter. Slow Travel to Bialowieza Forest in Podlasie, PolandPlay Video
That’s why this post is organized according to your travel plans in order to find the best winter sun holidays in Spain. Whether you are an adventurous travel type or looking for cheap winter breaks or luxury winter sun holidays, this article will recommend you the best places for hot winter holidays in Spain.
Puerto Santiago, Tenerife, in the Spanish Canary Islands
1. Best Places for Cheap Winter Breaks in Spain
Almeria
Cabo de Gata, Almeria
Average winter temperature: 16°C
Almeria and its natural park Cabo de Gata are probably one of the most underrated travel destinations in Spain. Not only during the winter months. However, Almería offers great value for your money.
Flights to Almería and hotels in Almería are generally cheap. Particularly during the winter months. During the cold months, many hotels near Almería and Cabo de Gata offer very attractive deals in order to attract travelers from all over the world.
Mallorca
Image by Facundo Win from Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 16°C
Mallorca is always a good idea! But particularly during the winter months! Indeed, the largest of the Balearic islands is almost empty during the colder months. That means that you can enjoy its breathtaking landscapes all for yourself.
The airport of Palma de Mallorca is connected to the most important European airports so that it´s particularly easy to reach. Hotel rates and flight prices drop a lot during the winter. Thus Mallorca is one of the most coveted destinations for cheap winter holidays in Spain.
On top, the island can be reached in less than 2 h from most Northern European cities.
Costa de la Luz
Bolonia Beach, Cadiz, Costa de la Luz
Average winter temperature: 17°C
Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light), the coast in southwestern Spain near Huelva and Cadiz, is still one of the hidden gems. Even during the summer, the vast beaches of Costa de la Luz get hardly very crowded.
Costa de la Luz is particularly suited for your winter holidays in Spain as it’s located at one of the southernmost points of Spain. It’s blessed with a lot of sunshine. However, it can get windy sometimes. On top, the flights to Seville or Faro (Portugal) are reasonably priced during that time of the year.
The beaches of Costa de Luz are some of the most beautiful ones in Spain. Thus, you’ll get great value for your money.
Costa Blanca
Image by carolaselles from Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 17°C
Costa Blanca will always be a classic when looking for cheap winter holidays in Spain. The coastal stretch between Alicante, Benidorm, and Denia is known for being one of the major tourist centers in Spain. The area is easy to reach with flights to Alicante airport.
Whereas the beaches can get very crowded in summer and the temperatures can be unbearably hot, in winter, Costa Blanca has got it all to be one of the best places to spend your cheap winter break in Spain. Indeed, the temperatures are nicely warm, there’s almost no wind and the resorts offer particularly attractive rates for your holidays.
The most popular places to stay in Costa Blanca for winter sun breaks are Benidorm, Denia, and Albir. All of them feature some of the cheapest winter accommodation in Spain.
2. Best Places for All-Inclusive Winter Holidays in Spain
Costa Brava
Image by Zsanett Herczegh from Pixabay
Average winter temperature: 15°C
Costa Brava, in Catalonia, the northeast of Spain, is one of the prettiest places to spend your winter holidays in Spain. Often crowded during the summer months, the empty beaches, beautiful nature and quaint villages are waiting for you to be explored during winter.
Not are the hotel rates very affordable during winter, but particularly all-inclusive resorts create special deals for all-inclusive winter holidays in Spain. Costa Brava can be reached via flights to the airports of Barcelona or Girona.
Next to exploring the beautiful coastal villages such as Tossa de Mar, Roses or Cadaqués, going for tapas or hikes is one of the best things to do in Costa Brava. Here further suggestions for things to do near Costa Brava:
Tenerife South
Average temperature in winter: 20°C
Tenerife belongs to the archipelago of the Canary Islands and is consequently one of the southernmost points of Spain. It’s thus particularly blessed with sunshine throughout the year.
The island of Tenerife has plenty of things to do but if you’re mostly looking for all-inclusive winter holidays, I recommend the southern part of Tenerife. Indeed, the small island boasts very distinct climates. Southern Tenerife is the main tourist center on the island and comes with countless resorts, bars, and activities.
Tenerife is easy to reach by Tenerife South Airport which is connected to most European airports.
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria dunes. Image by adamkontor from Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 20°C
Gran Canaria, the neighboring island of Tenerife is another coveted destination for your winter holidays in Spain. Similarly to Tenerife, the island boasts two different climates: a colder one in the north and a warmer one in the south.
Thus, if you want to make the most of your all-inclusive winter holidays, I recommend staying in the south of Gran Canaria. Home to one of the most scenic dunes in Europe, the Maspalomas dune, Gran Canaria is famous for its delicious food and water sports. On top, there are plenty of things to do in the main tourist hub, Maspalomas.
Mallorca
Mallorca coast. Image by Jonas Droste from Pixabay
Average winter temperature: 16°C
Mallorca seems to hold something for any type of traveler: amazing cycling roads, sailing tours, shopping options, and fabulous nightlife. But also, if you are looking for all-inclusive winter holidays in Spain, Mallorca is one of the best places to consider.
Boasting warm temperatures during winter, Mallorca is the perfect place to enjoy some winter sun. The island boasts a breathtaking natural landscape including secluded bays, forests, caves, and amazing beaches. But above all, Mallorca has some of the most amazing food in Spain.
3. Best Places for Luxury Winter Sun Holidays in Spain
Tenerife South
Los Gigantes, South Tenerife
Average temperature in winter: 20°C
Many mistake Tenerife for being an island only for all-inclusive travelers or cheap winter sun holidays. You couldn’t be more wrong! Not only does Tenerife offer a lot to nature lover throughout the year, but it’s also home to some of the finest luxury hotels on the Canary islands.
The luxury resorts of Tenerife can be found in Adeje but also a bit further south-west towards Los Gigantes. As they are quite secluded, you’ll enjoy quiet, but yet luxury winter sun holidays in Spain. They offer amazing Spanish and traditional Canarian food, some even come with their own golf course.
READ: Best Outdoor Activities in Tenerife
Another thing that luxury resorts in Tenerife have in common is their view on the gorgeous neighbor island La Gomera. You will remember the epic sunsets for a lifetime!
Marbella
Marbella Coast, Source: Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 17°C
Marbella is probably the most exclusive beach resort in Spain. Even though it is famous for attracting tourists from all over the world, Marbella maintained its rural, authentic charm. The old town center is whitewashed and boasts gorgeous cobbled streets.
READ: Places to visit in and near Marbella
Due to its strategic location on the Costa del Sol, near Malaga, Marbella lures you with warm temperatures during winter. That means that you can spend your days with long beach walks or practicing your favorite sports.
Ibiza
Average winter weather temperature: 16°C
Are you looking for luxury winter sun holidays in Spain with a laid-back, boho touch? Then you must visit Ibiza during winter! Indeed, the party island calms down during the winter and lures you with warm temperatures and almost no rainy days.
Spending a winter sun holidays in Ibiza means that you’ll have the narrow streets of Dalt Vila town for your own. There will be hardly any traffic jams and the island becomes an oasis of peace.
Ibiza hosts some of the best luxury resorts on the Balear islands. It’s just the perfect option to get pampered and enjoy the beautiful side of life.
Seville
Source: Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 17°C
I am a big fan of Seville during the winter! The city is much calmer and I love the atmosphere when the town is getting ready for Christmas. Seville boasts some of the warmest temperatures during winter that you can find on the Spanish peninsula.
On top, Sevilla boasts several great 5-star hotels that make the city the perfect place for your winter holidays in Spain. At night, indulge in Andalusian tapas, watch a Flamenco show and most of all, have a walk through the beautifully illuminated old city and the majestic cathedral.
4. Best Places for Winter Family Holidays in Spain
Costa del Sol
Caminito del Rey – The King’s path, Malaga, Costa del Sol
Average temperature in winter: 12°C
If you are looking for a winter getaway with your family, then Costa del Sol will hold plenty of options for you. Not only are there many activities that you can do with your kids, but on top, you’ll be close to beautiful cities such as Malaga, Seville or Granada.
READ: Day Trips from Malaga
Even though there can be some chilly wind, temperatures are generally mild. If it’s too cold to go to the pool with the kids.
Costa Dorada
Image by Marc Pascual from Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 14°C
The Costa Dorada stretches south from Barcelona and includes towns as Tarragona, Salou, and Cambrils. Being one of the major tourist centers in Spain. The Costa Dorada boasts countless activities for kids and families.
There are several leisure parks and the mild temperatures invite for long walks in the beautiful countryside of the Costa Dorada.
READ: The 40 Most Beautiful Places in Spain
If the kids are in the mood, you may want to visit the impressive Roman heritage of Tarragona.
Mallorca
Image by Michal Jarmoluk from Pixabay
Average winter temperature: 16°C
When looking for winter sunshine holidays with your family, Mallorca will be a place that you’ll love. Not only has the hustle and bustle of the summer months disappeared, but on top, there are plenty of activities to do with kids.
Be it one of the numerous leisure parks, an ancient train ride, natural wonders such as caves or exploring the old town of Palma de Mallorca, your kids won’t get bored when spending winter sun breaks in Mallorca.
5. Best Places for Winter Sun Short Breaks in Spain
Malaga
Espetos, fish skewers in Malaga
Average temperature in winter: 17°C
To me personally, the Andalusian city Malaga is one of the best winter holiday destinations out there! Particularly if you are looking for a weekend break in winter and fuel up on vitamin D!
The city does not only boast warm temperatures during winter, but it will attract you with its large cultural program. There are numerous museums, countless tapas bars and fine dining options waiting for you.
Seville
Average temperature in winter: 17°C
If you only have limited time and you fancy a city break for winter sun in Spain, you should definitely consider Seville! The city is well connected to major European airports and boasts particularly warm temperatures during winter.
As the city of Seville is relatively small in size, it’s the perfect destination for short-haul winter sun in Spain. A must-do is wandering the narrow streets of the Santa Cruz neighborhood, visiting the Moorish palace “Alcazar” and climbing up the Giralda tower which is part of the majestic cathedral of Spain.
READ: Best Day Trips from Seville
After exploring this Andalusian gem, find your way to one of its numerous tapas bars and fine restaurants. On top, there are plenty of festivals taking place in Seville during winter.
Barcelona
Sagrada Familia Cathedral, Barcelona. Source: Pixabay
Average winter weather temperature: 15°C
The Catalan capital is an all-time classic when looking for places for winter sun. The airport of Barcelona is the best connected in Spain after Madrid. Thus, the city is particularly easy to reach.
Boasting an immense cultural heritage and nicely warm temperatures, Barcelona is the perfect place to visit for winter in Spain. Even if you just have 48 hours in Barcelona, there are plenty of things to do: visit the most famous buildings in Barcelona, enjoy tapas on the terraces and, why not, watch a Barcelona football game.
Of course, you can’t miss the most legendary beach of Barcelona: La Barceloneta which is always full of entertainment. It’s thus the perfect place for short winter holidays in Spain.
Valencia
Umbracle – Image by Jared Pedroza from Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 17°C
Even though Valencia might not be as visited as Barcelona, this town has got it all to be the perfect place to enjoy some winter sun. Even if it’s just for an extended weekend getaway.
Average temperatures of Valencia are even warmer than its competitor Barcelona! The parts to be visited in Valencia can be divided into 2 parts: the old city center with its narrow streets and the new modern part, with the stunning white City of Arts and Sciences.
Valencia can be easily explored for 3 days and I strongly recommend trying at least once a paella. Valencia is famous for being the birthplace of this legendary Spanish dish. You can’t miss either the beautiful Valencia beach which is the ultimate place to fuel up on vitamin D.
6. Best Places for Winter Sun Holidays in Spain for Nature Lovers
Lanzarote or Fuerteventura
Image by Antonio Juan melian medina from Pixabay
Average temperature in winter: 21°C
The Canary Islands in winter are always a great idea! If you are looking for winter sun in a place that is not crowded at all, I invite you to have a look at Lanzarote or Fuerteventura. Both islands are extremely calm during the winter months and thus perfect to relax.
Blessed with warm temperatures and many sunny days, you’ll enjoy long walks in their unique desert landscape. It’s the perfect place to explore empty beaches and fall in love with the volcanic natural setting of Lanzarote and Fuerteventura.
Both Canary islands are the perfect place if you want to avoid large crowds and enjoy vast, natural spaces.
Cabo de Gata
Cabo de Gata Beach
Average temperature in winter: 18°C
Cabo de Gata, near Almeria in the southeast of Spain, is one of my favorite natural parks in Spain. However, it’s during winter that Cabo de Gata Natural Park shows its prettiest side.
When the crowds from summer are gone and nature can recover, Cabo de Gata invites nature lovers for long hikes in its pristine setting. Be ready to explore hidden bays, secluded beaches, and sandy desert landscapes.
Cabo de Gata can be reached via Almeria airport and it’s also considered to be a great place for winter camping in Spain.
Costa de la Luz
Cadiz. Source: Pixabay
Average winter temperature: 15°C
The Costa de la Luz (Coast of Light) is the coastal stretch between Huelva (southwest Andalucia) and Portugal. This geographic region boasts particularly long hours of sunshine.
On top, the region is close to the Doñana Natural Park which is the most famous winter retreat for migratory birds in Europe. The area around the natural park is also particularly suited for winter motorhoming in Spain.
If you are looking for empty beaches, gorgeous mountainous inland and authentic Andalusian flair, the Costa de la Luz is your perfect place to spend long stay winter holidays in Spain.
Tenerife
Benijo Beach, Tenerife North
Average temperature in winter: 20°C
When looking for winter sun holiday deals as a nature lover, you cannot skip Tenerife! During the winter, the island is absolutely pristine and you’ll enjoy long hikes in the mountainous north of the island.
Indeed, Northern Tenerife is one of the best places to enjoy nature. The rocky coastline boasting some of the best beaches in Tenerife, jaw-dropping viewpoints and the tastiest food on the island will make you fall in love with the green lung of Tenerife.
During winter, temperatures are particularly mild thus I recommend hiking the most famous trails of the island such as Barranco de Infierno, Masca hike or in the Anaga rural park.
READ: The best beaches in Tenerife
Please keep in mind that it can be rainy in the north of the island. If you want guaranteed sunshine during winter months, look for accommodation in the south near Adeje or Puerto de la Cruz.
