Does It Snow In Spain? What To Expect In The Winter
Are you wondering, does it snow in Spain?
Believe it or not, yes, it does snow in Spain. This country that is better known for hot summers and its coastal cities, also sports snow-covered slopes and icy vistas during its winter months.
Spain, with its diverse geography, offers more than just the sun-kissed beaches of Costa del Sol or the vibrant nightlife of Barcelona.
When the temperature drops, parts of the country transform into a winter wonderland, offering a magical backdrop for snowboarding, skiing and other winter activities.
Does It Snow In Spain?
Yes, it does snow in Spain! While it might come as a surprise to many, Spain is home to several mountain ranges, including the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada, which receive substantial snowfall each winter. The country has at least 30 ski resorts dispersed throughout these mountain ranges.
The central and northern parts of Spain—areas such as Castilla y León, the region surrounding Madrid, and Aragon—are more likely to see snow than the southern or coastal areas.
However, even in the sunny south, the high peaks of the Sierra Nevada mountains just outside of Granada are snow-capped for a good portion of the year.
Information About Winter In Spain
If you’re considering a trip to Spain in winter, you might be wondering what it’s like there during that time of year. Having lived in Madrid, Spain for a year myself I can tell you that winter in Spain is generally quite mild.
Of course, this all depends on which area of Spain you’re in. Whether you prefer milder temperatures or a full-blown winter wonderland, you’ll enjoy your trip to Spain in winter.
How cold Is Spain in winter?
Winter temperatures vary widely in Spain based on the region. Coastal areas like Barcelona and Valencia have milder winters, with average temperatures ranging from 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F).
Inland cities like Madrid experience colder winters. The average temperatures here can drop to around 6°C (43°F) during the day and 2°C (36°F) at night.
However, in the mountainous regions such as the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada, the winter temperatures can drop well below freezing, especially at night.
The ski resorts in these areas are often in the negatives (-10°C or 14°F), providing the perfect conditions for snowfall.
Remember, these are just averages and can fluctuate. The best advice is to check the weather reports close to your departure date and pack accordingly.
Is Spain nice in the winter?
Based on my personal experience having lived in and traveled around Spain in winter, Spain is nice in the winter.
As a born and raised Chicagoan, I suppose it’s all relative in the end. Compared to what I’m used to, winter in Spain was overall far milder than anything I’d experienced at home.
While I was living in Madrid, we did have a bit of snowfall and I recall it being a bit of a big deal because it’s less common there. I also traveled to Basque Country during the winter and found it to be overall mild as well.
If you’d rather your winter trip to Spain still be a warm-weather vacation, plan a visit to Canary Islands rather than some of the colder cities that time of year.
What is the coldest month in Spain?
January is typically considered the coldest month in Spain. Although this certainly varies depending on the region, January generally sees the lowest temperatures across the country.
In Madrid, for example, average daytime temperatures can hover around 10°C (50°F), dropping to about 2°C (36°F) at night.
What is the snowiest city in Spain?
There is some debate about which cities receive the most snow in Spain.
Some believe that Burgos, located in the northern region of Castilla y León, is the snowiest city. This city sees an average of 42 inches (105 cm) of snowfall each year.
Others claim that the real winner is Ávila in central Spain which receives an average of 52 inches (131 cm) per year.
Finally, Soria in the province of Castile and León has been cited as having the most snowfall out of any city in Spain with an average of 55 inches (139 cm) annually.
Still others point to Reina in the Cantabria province as the snowiest city with an average of 54 inches (135 cm) of snowfall each year.
Of course, all of these cities will have different snowfall amounts each winter so it’s tricky to pinpoint a definitive answer. If you’re looking for a snowy destination in Spain in winter any a visit to any of these cities would be worth considering.
Snow In Spain: FAQs
You might be wondering about snowfall in popular Spanish cities as you plan your visit. Let’s cover the basics now:
Does it snow in southern Spain?
Yes, it does snow in southern Spain, although it’s not a common occurrence in most parts.
The province of Granada, home to the Sierra Nevada mountain range, sees significant snowfall, with the peaks maintaining their snowy caps for much of the year.
Overall, while you can find snow in southern Spain, it’s generally confined to the mountainous regions.
Does it ever snow in Barcelona?
Snowfall in Barcelona is not common because of its coastal location and mild Mediterranean climate.
Occasionally, the city may see light snow, but it usually doesn’t accumulate or cause any major disruptions. However, if you want to experience snow during your Does it snow in Valencia, Spain?
Snowfall in Valencia is extremely rare due to its coastal location and temperate Mediterranean climate. The city typically enjoys mild winters with temperatures averaging between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). The last time it snowed a little in Valencia was in 1983, and the city hasn’t seen major snowfall since 1960! Snow in Marbella, Spain is a rare occurrence. This coastal city, located on the Costa del Sol, enjoys a subtropical-Mediterranean climate, ensuring warm winters with average temperatures ranging from 11°C to 16°C (52°F to 61°F). Given the mild climate, Marbella doesn’t usually experience snowfall. The surrounding mountain ranges may receive a dusting on their peaks during winter, offering a stunning visual contrast against the usually sunny coastline. Snow in Mallorca, Spain is quite rare, but it does occur occasionally. The last time Mallorca saw snowfall was in 2012. This beautiful island, known for its warm Mediterranean climate, typically sees mild winters with temperatures hovering around 15°C (59°F). Typically, snowfall is more likely in the mountainous regions nearby. When it does snow, it tends to be a light and melt quickly. No. Snowfall in Malaga, Spain is exceptionally rare due to its subtropical-Mediterranean climate. The city, located on the Costa del Sol, experiences mild winters with average temperatures ranging from 13°C to 18°C (55°F to 64°F). In fact, the last notable snowfall in Malaga was in 1954. So, if you’re planning to visit Malaga during the winter, expect sunnier skies and milder temperatures rather than a snowy scene. In addition to being one of the most affordable cities in Spain, Malaga is also one of the sunniest – it gets 300 days of sunshine per year! Yes, it does snow in Andalucia, Spain, but it’s not a frequent occurrence everywhere. Andalucia’s Sierra Nevada mountains are the southernmost ski destination in Europe, guaranteeing a decent amount of snowfall each winter. However, the coastal regions and lower altitudes of this region, known for their warm Mediterranean climate, see little to no snowfall. Cities like Seville and Malaga rarely see snow, but the picturesque town of Ronda or the city of Granada are more likely to witness a dusting of snow during the colder months. If you are visiting Spain in winter there are plenty of fun things to do during this season, including: Winter in Spain means Christmas markets, holiday lights, NYE parties and discounted shopping! From December through January, look for signs in shops that say Rebajas so you can shop the sales alongside locals. Carnival is one of the biggest (if not the biggest) festivals that takes place across the country. This country-wide party takes place the day before Lent begins and consists of parades, dancing, music, drinking and eating. Carnival in Spain is truly an occasion to experience and a perfect reason to visit Spain in winter. If your schedule only allows you to visit Spain in winter but you were hoping for a warm getaway, don’t fret. Instead, head to the Canary Islands for some sun-soaked beach time even in the winter season. While you might normally imagine flamenco dancing and tapas-bar hopping at the top of the list of activities to partake in Spain, skiing is also an option. As one of Europe’s most mountainous countries, Spain offers a variety of great options for skiiers and snoboarders alike. Spain has more than 30 ski resorts to choose from for anyone interested in winter sports. While nearby Switzerland or France might seem like the better option for skiing, skiing in Spain is more affordable. Plus, Spain’s Pyrenees mountain range doesn’t fall too far below the status of the nearby Alps. This is the largest and most popular ski resort in Spain. You can reach Baqueria-Beret from less than 4 hours by car, or in 5.5 hours by bus. Baqueira-Beret’s expansive terrain spans 157 kilometers with over 100 marked slopes, catering to skiers of all skill levels. The resort features state-of-the-art facilities, including high-speed lifts and convenient amenities like dining options, ski schools, and equipment rental centers. With consistently good snow conditions and captivating mountain views, Baqueira-Beret offers a perfect blend of adventure and Spanish charm. Located in the heart of the Pyrenees, Formigal is another of Spain’s premier ski destinations. This expansive resort boasts over 130 km of ski runs, catering to both beginners and seasoned skiers alike. The resort offers a variety of accommodations and dining options, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay for visitors. In addition to skiing, Formigal also provides a multitude of winter activities ranging from snowmobiling to sledding, adding to the overall winter wonderland experience. Furthermore, the resort’s high altitude and state-of-the-art snowmaking facilities ensure reliable snow conditions throughout the winter season. Puerto de Navacerrada is one of the closest ski resorts to Madrid, making it an excellent choice for a day trip or a short winter weekend. Not only does it offer convenience, but its charming locale and variety of slopes make it an appealing destination for both beginners and intermediate skiers. The resort is well-equipped with modern amenities, including ski rental shops, restaurants, and a ski school for those looking to improve their skills. It features around 15 slopes with varying levels of difficulty, allowing skiers of all proficiency levels to enjoy the resort to the fullest. Nestled in the heart of the Pyrenees Mountains, La Molina is a gem among Spanish ski resorts. As one of the oldest ski resorts in Spain, it boasts a rich history and has set the stage for numerous international competitions, including the Alpine Skiing World Cup. La Molina features nearly 70 km of skiable terrain with a good mix of green, blue, red, and black slopes, catering to all levels of proficiency. Besides skiing and snowboarding, La Molina offers a delightful array of winter activities, such as snowshoeing, tubbing, and snowmobile tours. The resort also boasts several inviting restaurants and cafes where you can sample local cuisine and warm up with a hot beverage. Located in the tiny, picturesque country of Andorra, nestled between Spain and France, Ordino Arcalis is a part of the larger Vallnord ski area. Known for its stunning natural beauty, it offers some of the best off-piste and freeride skiing in the Pyrenees. The resort is well-suited for both seasoned skiers and families, featuring a range of slopes from gentle beginners’ areas to challenging black runs. Ordino Arcalis boasts over 30 km of skiable terrain, with marked trails and off-piste areas that make it a favorite among adventurous skiers. Curious about what to wear in Spain in winter so you know what to pack? Remember these staple pieces. Of course, you could also wait to do your shopping in Spain. Of course, if you plan on hitting the slopes you’ll want to pack a ski suit. Consider this chic option available in red or a black-and-white combination. If you’re headed to a cold but not-too-cold part of Spain for the winter, like Madrid, a classic pea coat will serve you well. A stylish and versatile sweater dress is the perfect go-to outfit base. Dress it up or down, and add or remove layers depending on the occasion and weather at hand. You can never go wrong with a light, button-down cardigan for layering. This black-and-white striped cardigan will go with anything and keep you looking put together. A comfortable and water-proof ankle boot is key to keeping your feet happy while visiting Europe in winter. Pair with a tunic top or dress and stay warm with fleece-lined leggings. While Spain is widely known for its sun-drenched beaches and warm Mediterranean climate, it also offers a striking variety of winter experiences. Spain presents a unique blend of winter landscapes, with both regions of snow and sun on offer. Whether you’re a snow sports enthusiast or a sun-seeker, a history buff or a festival-goer, Spain’s winter will always have something special to offer. Remember, every city has its own unique charm and climate, so pack accordingly and get ready to embrace the cool side of Spain!Does it snow in Marbella, Spain?
Does it snow in Mallorca, Spain?
Does it snow in Malaga, Spain?
Does it snow in Andalucia, Spain?
Best Things To Do In Spain In Winter
Join in the holiday festivities
Experience Carnival
Enjoy a beach getaway
Go skiing
Ski Resorts In Spain
Baqueira-Beret
Formigal
Puerto de Navacerrada
La Molina
Ordino Arcalis
What to Wear in Spain in Winter
Ski Suit
Pea Coat
Sweater Dress
Cardigan
Ankle Boots
Fleece-Lined Leggings
Final Thoughts: Does It Snow In Spain?
