Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I may receive an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
Deciding what to wear for Spain in winter shouldn’t be a chore, as Spain can be a delight during the colder months.
Parts of Spain will be relatively cold during this time, but areas such as Andalusia are well known for less chilly temperatures around Christmas than the rest of the county. Of course figuring out to pack for Spain in winter depends on the location you’re visiting.
If visiting the mountains you’ll need to pack warmer boots, pants and make sure your jacket is insulated. If visiting the South you’ll still need your warm clothing but depending on your tolerance for cold you can opt for jeans, cute boots and less bulky jackets.
Read on the find out what to wear and pack for Spain in winter.
In a hurry? Here are my 3 must haves for what to pack:
Why?: (#1) A light rain jacket doesn’t take up too much room, but helps you from getting caught out when it rains.
Why?: (#2) There are many different brands available but a set of wireless headphones are amazing for long bus or train journeys.
Why?: (#3) Having a lens cloth is so important yet its often left off packing lists. They’re cheap to buy and can save your photos from random smudges.
Pin it
Spain in Winter: December, January and February
Spain is known for its mild winters, especially in the South and center of the country. So what level of warmth you’ll want to pack will depend on your tolerance for the cold. If visiting the mountains you may encounter snow so be sure to rug up. The north can also experience decent downpours during these months.
During winter in Spain, you can expect temperatures around 3-12C / 37-54F. Although, some higher points may reach the extreme of -2C/28F. If traveling in the South, this may mean you might want to brave a swim with lows around 5C / 41F.
Read on for your guide on what to wear in Spain in Winter.
What to Wear in Spain in Winter
Boots: The area you’re visiting will dictate how warm your boots need to be. If visiting the mountains and the north you’ll want something insulated, but for Central and the South you’ll be okay with regular boots. If going for a dressier look, don’t be afraid to pull out the over knee boots.
Flats or Sneakers: Bring a pair of sneakers or comfortable shoes for warmer days. Personally, I never pack sneakers unless I’m actually going on a proper hike, so I’d bring a pair of flats. Pick something with padding if possible so you’re feet don’t get sore.
Underwear & Bras: Pick something comfy.
Gloves, Scarf & Beanie: The scarf and gloves are not as necessary if visiting the south, but pack a beanie / woollen hat regardless.
Bottoms : Jeans and other types of pants will suit you fine. I personally think jeans are great for keeping you warm and stylish, but if you’re more into casual style, pants with a slouch would be super comfy here too (I believe the style I’m thinking of are called joggers). You could also pack a skirt and match it with warmer stockings if traveling lower Spain. Or just opt for a long skirt.
Tops: Think long sleeve or wool-blend. Again, it depends on your tolerance for the weather in Spain. Someone from a country with strong winters will be fine wearing a t-shirt somedays, while others will need the longer sleeves.
Cardigans and or pullover: Pick something warmish, that would serve you well during the days and the evening. If you plan on going out to fancy dinners or hitting the clubs, make sure atleast one can double for evening wear.
Coats: You wont need a full-on insulated coat here, especially if visiting the South of Spain.
Dresses: Pair with stockings or leggings, or swap out for additional tops. Go for mid-length or longer, or something short with stockings. Pick at least one suitable for nights out.
Leggings or stockings
Want to know how many of each item to pack? See our Spain packing list.
What to Pack for Spain in Winter
For winter, there are a few items you really should pack.
Moisturizer – Get a travel sized version of your moisturizer to stop your skin from drying out during Spain’s winter.
Warmer pajamas – Pack those pajama pants girl.
Travel sized hair dryer – check before buying one of these if your hotel already provides one. I’m listing it here as going out in winter with wet hair is a bad idea. I have a whole post on the best hairdryers for travel here.
Cold + flu medicine – if you come from a place where its always sunny, you ma want to pack some of these in your luggage. While Spain doesn’t get too cold, it can still me chilly if you’re from say, Queensland *cough, me*.
Socks – Perfect for cold evenings in your hotel.
Camera – Don’t forget your charger and memory card!
Umbrella – rain can and will happen in winter. Be prepared.
For more must-pack items, see our Spain packing list here.
Travel Tips for Spain
What to do and see: There’s plenty to do in Spain in Winter, especially in Barcelona and Madrid. The gaudi architecture is a tourist favourite, and the Sagrada Familia Basilica is the most visited attraction (a pretty castle). The beaches are not as popular in winter, although if you have your heart set on one, you’ll be most comfortable in the South of Spain. I recommend having a look at the Get Your Guide website for day tours, skip the line passes and hop on/ hop off buses.
Where to stay in Spain: I recommend using Hotels Combined to book your accommodation in Spain. You can see recommendations for Barcelona and Madrid on the main Spain packing list though.
For more tips check out the Spain packing list post.
Pin it
