Is December a good time to go to Malaga?

The mild Malaga weather in December attracts visitors to southern Spain who're looking for a quiet and pleasant Christmas break. The temperature's too low for sunbathing but you'll get some warm winter sunshine and just brief showers.



December is an excellent time to visit Malaga, especially if you want to experience one of Europe’s most spectacular holiday atmospheres without the biting cold of the north. Malaga is famous for its Christmas light display on Calle Larios, which is considered one of the best in the world, featuring light "cathedrals" and synchronized music shows. Weather-wise, Malaga enjoys some of the warmest winters in mainland Europe; you can expect daytime highs of 17°C to 19°C (63°F–66°F) and plenty of sunshine. While it is too cold for swimming, it is perfect for outdoor dining and exploring the Alcazaba or the Picasso Museum. Additionally, December is the "low season" for airfare and hotels, meaning you can find luxury accommodations for a fraction of the summer price. The city is lively with traditional "Belén" (nativity scene) displays and seasonal markets, but it lacks the overwhelming, suffocating crowds of July and August, making it a sophisticated and festive winter getaway for those seeking "sun and culture" rather than "sun and sand."

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If you love the heat and sun, the best time to visit Malaga is between June and September. The hottest time of the year is July and August, which has an average temperature of 31°C and 11 hours of warm sunshine per day. It's also the best time to go to Malaga for swimming, with an average sea temperature of 24°C.

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Weather in Malaga in December Daytime highs typically reach around 17-18°C (63-64°F), and at night, temperatures can drop to around 8-10°C (46-50°F). The sea temperatures average around 17°C (63°F) in December, which some might find refreshing, though others may find it too cold for a swim.

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Summary of cost of living in Malaga, Spain: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 2,503.2$ (2,366.9€) without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 721.2$ (682.0€) without rent. Malaga is 52.2% less expensive than New York (without rent).

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The cold is not an excuse to not visit Spain in December, as temperatures are not extreme in most of the country. Those who detest the cold really only need avoid visiting the far north and certain parts of central Spain. For everyone else, pack some warm layers and a raincoat and you're sure to have a great time.

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The cold is not an excuse to not visit Spain in December, as temperatures are not extreme in most of the country. Those who detest the cold really only need avoid visiting the far north and certain parts of central Spain. For everyone else, pack some warm layers and a raincoat and you're sure to have a great time.

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As a holiday destination Malaga rates as one of the cheapest in Spain and most visitors are pleasantly surprised how little everything costs in the capital of the Costa del Sol. But if you're on a budget, there are ways of making your holiday in Malaga even cheaper.

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The cheapest time to visit Spain is usually from December to March, though you can also enjoy affordable flights and hotels in early spring and late autumn. The winter months see many vibrant markets and activities dedicated to annual celebrations such as Christmas, Carnival, and New Year's Eve.

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Where is the warmest place in Europe for a winter holiday? The hottest place in Europe in December is probably the Canary Islands. For a warm winter holiday in Europe, the Canary Islands in Spain offer a haven of sunshine and warmth.

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Today, the city is a cosmopolitan hub that draws visitors from all over the world with its stunning architecture, interesting museums, and unforgettable atmosphere. Thanks to its location along the sun-soaked coast of southern Spain, Malaga is also the bonafide capital of the Costa del Sol.

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