Spain in January : A Pocket Guide to a Wonderful Spain Vacation

Spain is a country straight out of a children’s book, with stone castles, snowcapped mountains, vast monuments, and sophisticated cities. All of this has contributed to its popularity as a travel destination. It is the ideal location for a variety of activities ranging from skiing to shopping to relaxing on the beach in the sun. Another important factor to consider is that flights and hotels will be less expensive. January is also a great time to visit because most tourist attractions will be less crowded. You can take as much time as you need to get the perfect picture for your Instagram profile.

The Pyrenees are a location along the borders of Spain and France for upscale ski resorts. Spain has many alluring beaches that are beckoning the wanderlust mind in addition to football teams and historical sites!

January weather in Spain

The weather in the second-largest nation in Europe will differ from region to region. Despite the fact that January is meant to be frigid, even the hottest locale might become chilly. The country’s northern region will be chilly and rainy. Every other day there will be rain, therefore it is necessary to wear a jacket, especially at night. There may be warm days in the Malaga region, but not enough for you to come home with a tan. In January, Madrid’s winter can be somewhat unpredictable. There is a beach in Barcelona, but it is deserted in January. Overall, this month will be dominated by frigid weather.

Madrid : 52 F (11 C)/32 F (0 C)
Barcelona: 55 F (13 C)/39 F (4 C)
Malaga: 61 F (16 C)/45 F (7 C)

What to bring to Spain in January

In Spain, you won’t need heavy winter gear; some cold-weather basics will suffice. Items on the list may include:

Full/short sleeves shirts for layering
Long sleeve tops
A sweatshirt or cardigan
A light jacket
A lightweight scarf
Jeans/cargo pants

Spain vacation spots in January

Granada
San Sebastián
Costa del Sol

1. Granada

Humans have been inhabiting Granada for at least 2500 years. In January, Granada has the coldest weather in southern Spain, with an average temperature of 7 °C. The Sierra Nevada mountain range is only 45 minutes away from the city. It has more than 100 kilometres of ski and snowboard trails. The Albayzin district of Granada has an Arabic flavour and has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Flamenco shows are a must-see in the city if you want to experience a completely different culture, music, and dance. Regular buses run from cities such as Seville, Málaga, Madrid, and Cordoba. Local buses also run frequently throughout the city, connecting various tourist attractions.

2. San Sebastián

The traditional Fiesta de San Sebastián takes place on January 20th, and it is one of the city’s most important celebrations. The festival dates back to the nineteenth century, when Napoleon’s army destroyed and set fire to the entire city. Men and women dressed in traditional costumes parade through the streets for 24 hours, playing loud drums. Witnessing this spectacular parade is an unforgettable experience. If you are in the city on the specified date, don’t miss out. Aquarium Donostia-San Sebastian, which houses over 200 marine species, is a must-see for anyone interested in marine life. The aquarium’s 1.5 million litre water tank and the bull sharks that live in it are two of its most notable features.

3. Costa del Sol

Enjoy the January 20 degree weather here! The Costa del Sol’s city, Malaga, is one of Spain’s top destinations for shoppers. From Almeria to Tarifa is where the Costa del Sol begins. Everybody, including children, couples, and the elderly, is catered to. Shopaholics’ major thoroughfare is Calle Larios. The pristine beaches and year-round sunshine of the Costa del Sol are well recognised. Although the sea may not be warm enough for swimming, the excellent weather makes it possible to visit the nearby coast. Spend some time exploring white-washed communities like Ronda, Mijas, or Frigiliana. Go to the village of Puerto Banos for glitzy celebrity style. Million-dollar boats can be found.

January events to attend in Spain

International Winter Motorcycle Rally : Every year in mid-January, the city of Valladolid hosts this event, which brings together thousands of people from all over the world on their motorcycles.
International Tourism Fair : This massive expo is not to be missed by travellers or those working in the travel industry. More than 10,000 exhibitors will be present under one roof at this event.
Jarramplas : The La Tomatina, or tomato-based food fight, is well-known. However, very few people are aware of this food throwing festival in which turnips are used. This one-of-a-kind festival takes place in Caceres. If La Tomatina piques your interest, you should definitely look into this one as well.
A Celebration of Christian’s Victory over the Moors : The city of Granada commemorates the Reconquista victory in 1492, when the Moors were driven out, on January 2. The topmost tower in the Alhambra is only accessible to the public on this day of the year.