Winter is a magical time of year, with snowflakes, cosy fires, and warm blankets. But sometimes, the cold, dark days can feel overwhelming, and it’s time to escape to a warmer climate. Spain is a great destination to escape the winter blues. There are 90 tourist destinations with 250 or more sun hours on average during the winter months and 58 destinations where the average temperature in winter is 16ºC or higher!
Top 3 Warmest Spanish Destinations In winter
With fewer tourists and lower prices than in the summer months, winter is a great time to experience Spain’s many attractions without the crowds. Here we will explore the top winter holidays in Spain.
The Canary Islands
The Canary Islands is the best destination to go on a winter holiday in Spain, with average temperatures of around 20ºC in winter, and 300 sun hours on average. The islands are located off the northwest coast of Africa, but they are part of Spain, so travellers can enjoy a warm, sunny winter holiday without leaving the country. There are seven main islands, each with its own unique character and attractions.
View of lagoon Playa de las Teresitas
Here are some of the best things to do in the Canary Islands during the winter months:
- Enjoy the beaches: The Canary Islands are known for their beautiful beaches, and the winter months are no exception. With temperatures averaging around 20°C, visitors can still enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and water sports at beaches like Playa de las Canteras in Gran Canaria or Playa de las Teresitas in Tenerife.
- Explore the natural wonders: They are home to a variety of natural wonders, from the volcanic landscapes of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote to the rugged mountains of Gran Canaria. Visitors can hike, cycle, or take guided tours to explore these unique landscapes.
- Visit historic towns and cities: The Canary Islands have a rich history and culture, with many historic towns and cities to explore. In Tenerife, visitors can explore the colonial-era architecture of La Laguna, while in Gran Canaria, the charming old town of Vegueta is a must-visit.
- Take a whale-watching tour: The Canary Islands are home to a variety of marine life, including whales and dolphins. Many tour companies offer whale-watching tours during the winter months, giving visitors the chance to see these majestic creatures up close.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: The Canary Islands have a rich culinary tradition, with influences from Spain, Africa, and Latin America. Visitors can sample local specialities, mojo sauce, and fresh seafood at restaurants and markets throughout the islands.
- Attend festivals and events: The winter months are a great time to experience the vibrant cultural scene in the Canary Islands. From the Carnival celebrations in Tenerife and Gran Canaria to the Three Kings Day parades in January, there are plenty of festivals and events to enjoy.
- Relax at a spa: Many of the resorts and hotels in the Canary Islands have luxurious spas that offer a range of treatments and therapies from massages, to facials, and other spa treatments to help you to unwind and rejuvenate.
- Play golf: The Canary Islands are home to a number of world-class golf courses, with mild winter temperatures making it an ideal time to play a round. Golfers can enjoy stunning ocean views and challenging courses like the Anfi Tauro Golf in Gran Canaria or the Adeje Golf in Tenerife.
- Take a day trip to another island: With seven main islands to choose from, visitors to the Canary Islands can easily hop from one to another. Take a ferry or a short flight to explore another island’s unique attractions and landscapes.
Explore The Islands
Tenerife
Tenerife is the largest island and one of the most popular winter destinations in Spain. It’s home to the famous Mount Teide, a volcano that dominates the island’s skyline. Visitors can take a cable car to the summit for spectacular views of the island and the surrounding ocean. Tenerife also has many beautiful beaches, lively resorts, and historic towns to explore.
Los Gigantes, Tenerife
Gran Canaria
Gran Canaria is another famous island, with a mix of rugged mountains, golden beaches, and vibrant cities. The island is known for its year-round sunshine, warm temperatures, and natural beauty. Visitors can explore the stunning sand dunes of Maspalomas, hike through the mountains of the interior, or relax in the charming towns along the coast.
Puerto de Mogan, Gran Canaria island
Lanzarote
Lanzarote is a unique island with a stark, otherworldly landscape. It’s home to Timanfaya National Park, a volcanic wonderland with steaming geysers, bubbling mud pools, and dramatic lava fields. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s beautiful beaches, picturesque villages, and delicious local cuisine.
Papagayo beach at sunset, Lanzarote, Canary Islands
Other Canary Islands worth exploring include Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro. Each island has unique attractions and charms, offering warm weather, beautiful scenery, and a laid-back island vibe.
More Winter Destinations in Spain To Visit
If the Canary Islands aren’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other warm winter destinations in Spain such as Costa Blanca. It is a popular destination on the east coast of Spain, known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and charming villages. The region has a mild climate in winter, with temperatures around 16-18ºC, making it a great destination for outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and golfing.
Costa del Sol, on the southern coast of Spain, is another popular winter destination, with over 300 sunny days a year. The region is known for its glamorous resorts, stunning beaches, and world-class golf courses. Visitors can also explore the historic cities of Malaga and Granada, or take a day trip to the beautiful hilltop town of Ronda.
Other warm winter destinations in Spain include the Balearic Islands, including Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca, as well as the southern region of Andalusia, with its beautiful cities, like Seville, Cordoba, and Cadiz.
No matter which destination you choose, a winter holiday in Spain is sure to be a sunny, relaxing escape from the cold, dark days of winter. Whether you’re looking for beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, or charming villages, Spain has something for everyone.