Spain in December - Christmas, Ski and More

If you want to go to Spain in December, there are plenty of options to choose from, whether you’re looking for Christmas Markets, fabulous Ski slopes, or relaxing spa resorts.

Madrid

Nighttime view of the bustling Plaza Mayor Christmas market with illuminated red stalls, festive holiday lights, and a glowing Christmas tree in Madrid, Spain.

Madrid is the perfect destination if you want to feel the Christmas spirit in Spain. Not only does it have a huge Christmas market with 100 booths in Plaza Mayor, but the whole city center is decorated with lights in different shapes. You can go to Restaurant La Casa del Abuelo and warm up with some Gambas al ajillo (Garlic Shrimp).

Book a hotel in Madrid

Nighttime view of a bustling Christmas market with wooden stalls, string lights, and holiday crowds set against the historic facade of the Oviedo Cathedral in Spain.

Best Christmas Markets in Spain

There are many Christmas markets in Spain, so it’s hard to choose once you’re planning your vacation. Here are some of the best options, considering how easy it is to reach the market, its historic background, and its decoration.

Change the Alps for the Pyrenees and plan your skiing trip in Val d’Aran – named by National Geographic the Catalan Switzerland. You can enjoy the slopes of Baqueira-Beret and eat at restaurants in Vielha or Bossòst. Since the area is home to the famous Caviar Nacarii, you can go and try it at the Restaurant Eth Bistro Gastro Espai.

Val d’Aran also has many beautiful villages you can visit during your vacation: Salardú, Unha, Bagergue, Arties, Bossòst – to name a few.

Book a hotel in Baqueira-Beret

Relax at a Spa in Huesca

One of the most impressive spas in Spain is in Huesca – a picturesque area with high mountains and lots of greenery. The place is called Balneario de Panticosa, and it has two hotels, many thermal water pools, and several treatments – including massages.

Book a hotel in Panticosa

Valencia Cathedral Gothic facade on Plaza de la Reina with orange trees and people walking under a blue sky, Valencia, Spain

Spain in January

The Mediterranean Coast is a great option to visit Spain in January. There are fewer chances of rain compared to most of the country, and you can enjoy the sun near a beautiful beach.

Madrid skyline at sunset — Almudena Cathedral dome and spire silhouetted against a fiery orange sky, rooftops stretching to the horizon

Spain Itinerary for First-Timers

We built this Spain itinerary for first-timers, organized by how many days you have: whether you have 5 days, 7-8 days, 10 days, 14 days, or even 21 days.

Tapas Spinner

Explore Spanish tapas

Tap once. Get 3 tapas ideas.

50+ tapas · 5 taps a day · Works offline

Discover Tapas Spinner →

Spain in December – Christmas Markets, Ski and Winter Escapes