Spain’s winters are more idyllic than one might think. With cool, sunny weather, it’s the perfect time to experience this unbelievable country.
Lasting from December to March, winter in Spain tends to be milder and less rainy than the rest of Europe. With many tourist hotspots experiencing colder temperatures, travelers can enjoy winter sports and snow along with exciting traditional festivals and warming seasonal dishes. Plus, there’s spots in the south that stay balmy all year long.
Visiting the country’s world-famous cities provides endless, top-notch sightseeing opportunities. There’s musical entertainment on Madrid’s Gran Via, football matches and iconic Gaudi architecture in Barcelona, Guggenheim Museum exhibitions in Bilbao, Seville’s famous flamenco shows, Malaga, the birthplace of Picasso and home to his many works, and Valencia’s operas and incredible seaside views. With international airports and connecting high-speed trains, it’s easy to experience these profoundly historic yet strikingly modern urban hubs.
An ideal holiday getaway
And for a great day trip, explore one of fifteen Heritage Cities – such as Segovia. The town carries legacies of the Roman Empire including its quintessential, 160-arch aqueduct. Spain’s cities are steeped in rich cultural experiences (like February’s Carnival and Holy Week in late March or April), incredible gastronomy, and awesome entertainment.
Then, a quick flight south brings tourists to some of the most outstanding beaches and ecotourism in Europe. Boasting an average winter temperature of twenty-four degrees, the Canary Islands are a must-see destination with tons of things to do. Enjoy water sports like scuba diving and windsurfing, sunbathe oceanside, or hike one of the archipelago’s four national parks. Traverse these stunning, volcanic landscapes on cycling trips or try rock climbing and caving. Five of the seven islands are declared Biosphere Reserves where visitors will find greenery, desert, and Spain’s highest peak and World Heritage site, Mount Teide.
Something for everyone
The year-round springtime weather and Spain’s commitment to environmental preservation and sustainable practices makes these islands a nature lover’s paradise – and the country’s top-rated wine industry benefits, too. On Lanzarote, visitors marvel in sustainable winemaking on volcanic soil where grapes are harvested by hand.
Spanish wine is top-rated worldwide and a major attraction. On the mainland, there’s countless routes available through the Spanish Association of Wine-Producing Towns and Cities (AVEVIN). Travel one of the many traditional growing regions and revel in wine-making lessons, tastings and food pairings, and so much more. In particular, the popular northern Rioja Alavesa Route bring tourists though an exceptional microclimate that’s home to prestigious Rioja wines. Combining traditional processes with state-of-the-art technology, this route includes stops at some of the most incredible wineries including one designed by Frank Ghery. Described as “an animal galloping over the countryside,” this winery’s remarkable architecture is as magnificent as the wines they make inside.
There’s so much to experience in Spain that one visit won’t be enough. Start planning your trip today at spain.info.
