Rich in art, culture, and natural beauty, Spain is one of the most popular and loved by tourists destinations all year round. Mostly known for its hot and cloudless summers, Spain remains free from mass tourism in the wintertime! If you’re planning a winter holiday and you’re looking for a destination that’s warm and sunny, away from low temperatures, and snow-free, then consider one of these amazing destinations in Spain:
Salamanca
If you’re looking for a winter destination defined by both cultural and architectural beauty, then the Spanish city of Salamanca will amaze you. Blessed by good weather all year round and mild temperatures even during wintertime, Salamanca is a top pick for a winter holiday away from the cold. Salamanca is rich in history and art, distinguished by the city’s unique architecture that combines the Gothic and Plateresque styles. So much so that the Old City was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Among the must-see landmarks in the city, there are the two main religious architectures, the New Cathedral and the Old Cathedral of Salamanca, la Plaza Mayor, one of Spain’s most famous squares, and of course the University of Salamanca, the most ancient University in Spain.
Rioja
The Spanish northern region of Rioja is worth visiting for its beautiful landscapes and views but is an absolute must for the foodies and wine lovers. This incredible viticultural region is the home of the denominación de origen calificada wine, also called “Rioja”. For the fans of red wine, try going for a night of tapas and a glass of Tempranillo, Garnacha Tinta, Cariñena, or Graciano. If you prefer your white wines, then try the Macabeo, the local production of Malvasía, or the Garnacha Blanca. The tapas themselves are worth trying. The Rioja region is famous for its unique tapas. The local specialty is a tapa based on spider crab fish cake, however, for the vegetarians and vegans out there, try the local mushroom tapas!
Zaragoza
Zaragoza is a perfect Spanish winter destination. Everything worth seeing in the city is just as beautiful in the wintertime as it is in the summer. However, you will avoid mass tourism as well as save a lot of money by traveling during the winter. Zaragoza has plenty to offer in terms of art and architecture, with its unique style varying between the Romanesque and Baroque with Gothic influences. When in Zaragoza, pay a visit to La Seo Cathedral, the breathtaking Cathedral-Basilica of Our Lady of the Pillar, and the Church of Santa Engracia de Zaragoza.
Granada
Granada has the picturesque and quaint feel typical of the Andalusia Region, while at the same time offering everything you may look for in a modern metropolis. When it comes to what to see and what to do in Granada, the truth is you could stay in the city for a month and still not check every item on the list. The most iconic landmark is without a doubt The Alhambra. Between incredible palaces and gardens, this “palace city” is a UNESCO-protected site that you won’t ever forget. Other historical symbols of the city are the Cathedral of Granada and the Royal Chapel (where you’ll find artwork from Botticelli and Juan de Flandes!). If you are feeling like wandering around the city, then pay a visit to the Albayzín and the Sacromonte neighborhoods.
Málaga
The Andalusian city of Málaga is surrounded by the majestic Montes de Málaga on one side and the Mediterranean Costa del Sol on the other. The city is blessed with a mild springlike climate all year round and is a perfect tourist destination for a winter holiday. Apart from the natural beauty, Málaga is a city of Art. Being the birthplace of the worldwide famous painter Picasso, the city exudes art. Visit the Museum entirely dedicated to the artist! If you are traveling during winter time and you enjoy taking part in culturally significant events wherever you go, then plan your trip in February, just in time for the Fiestas de Carnaval!
Ávila
Ávila, the Town of Stones and Saints, it’s the perfect Spanish destination for history lovers! The city has preserved its Romanesque fortifications, making the Ávila medieval walls the most complete in the country. These majestic medieval defensive walls are over 2 thousand meters long and feature over 80 preserved towers. The best part is: you can easily take a tour and walk on these original walls! When visiting Ávila, stop at the impressive Gothic Cathedral of Ávila and at the Basílica de San Vicente. For the complete Ávila experience, try the Amarguillos, the typical bitter almond pastries, the Huesitos, marzipan sweets, and the spicy Patatas revolconas!
Segovia
If the name of this city sounds to your ears like some kind of fantasy realm, you are not that far from the truth! The city’s fortress, the Alcázar of Segovia, actually served as a model for Walt Disney’s Cinderella Castle. But this is not all. The entire Old city has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO and has a lot to offer in terms of historical landmarks. Visit the Aqueduct of Segovia, and the amazing City Walls and enjoy your day in this real-life fairytale town. The weather in this region will please those looking to avoid the cold! The average winter temperature (December) is 8.8 °C (47.8°F), making Segovia one of the best destinations for a wintertime holiday!
Toledo
Toledo’s cultural heritage and historical beauty are simply incalculable, and the whole city has been declared part of UNESCO. The main landmarks that you don’t want to miss are the Alcazar fortress, from which you’ll be able to have one of the best views over the town, the tomb of Saint Beatrice of Silva, and the Gothic Cathedral. For a scenic afternoon, take a stroll through the Jewish Quarter and stop at the Synagogue of El Transito. For the true readers, walk the two pathways following the Route of Don Quixote, retracing the hero’s steps.
Toledo has also so much to offer in terms of local food! Try the gachas manchegas, and tortilla a la magra, or one of the typical Toledo stews.
Canary Islands
This super popular destination is located just 120 km (around 74 miles) from the African coastline and is blessed with subtropical weather characterized by consistently warm and mild (but often windy!) winters. This is a destination for those that love a pristine natural environment and are looking for an adventurous holiday. Some of the main attractions of the Canary Islands are of course its unspoiled sandy beaches and amazing cliffs, but there’s much more to do than just lay in the sun. The Canary Islands are the definitive destinations for hikers and water sports lovers! The main islands that you want to visit are Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and the smaller but beautiful Fuerteventura and Lanzarote.
Seville
Seville, the capital of the Spanish region of Andalusia, is one of the largest and most popular destinations in the country all year round. Its monumental architecture truly reflects its capital status through history, with an architectural style that goes from the Romanesque to the Gothic, to the Art deco. The main landmarks are the Royal Alcázars of Seville and The Cathedral of Saint Mary of the See, both UNESCO-protected sites. The unique Parque de María Luisa lies where once was the Guadalquivir river, and it is truly worth a visit. For those that love local folklore and traditions, visit the Triana district, also known as the flamenco district!
Whether your heart is set on one destination, or you are still figuring out where to go, download the Framey mobile app! With its spectacular visual and passionate community of travelers, Framey will allow you to plan the perfect and most memorable trip. Browse and research all the most remarkable and lesser-known spots in the world, book your ticket and share your experience with the rest of the community! Download the app here → framey.app/download and always remember to travel safe!
