Spain in December

Spain in December felt like stepping into a holiday postcard. Shrey and I packed our laptops, bundled up our festive spirit, and set off for two magical weeks of working remotely. From the vibrant buzz of Barcelona to the soulful rhythms of Seville, and that absolutely unforgettable road trip through Zahara de la Sierra and Ronda… it all played out like a scene from a movie we didn’t want to end. There was something extra special about experiencing Spain during the festive season. Picture sipping rich hot chocolate under glowing street lamps, hearing Christmas carols echo through centuries-old alleys, and watching locals gather in cheerful markets. December brought with it fewer crowds, festive lights, and cozy culinary delights that made the entire experience uniquely magical.

Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, festive fun, or a slower pace to truly enjoy Spain’s cities, December offers it all with a little extra sparkle. If you’re wondering whether Spain is worth visiting in winter, especially while balancing remote work, let me walk you through our journey.

Spain in December: Weather and Why to Visit

Let’s start with the weather. If you’re like us and prefer avoiding sweltering heat and tourist-packed streets, December is the sweet spot. Barcelona hovered around 12–17°C (low 50s to low 60s °F), and Seville was just a bit warmer and sunnier, which made wandering around incredibly comfortable. The crispness in the air gave every walk a refreshing feel, perfect for long strolls through parks, plazas, and historic neighborhoods.

What to wear? You won’t need heavy winter gear, but pack layers and a light jacket for the evenings, especially if you plan to stay out late enjoying dinner or drinks outdoors. A scarf and gloves came in handy for early mornings and sunset views, but we never needed anything bulky.

One major perk: Traveling in December means more availability at top hotels and better deals on flights and very less crowds. We were able to snag some charming accommodations without breaking the bank. Tourist attractions, normally crowded in peak seasons, felt calm and open. We had the time and space to truly soak it all in.

And then there’s the holiday spirit. Spain in December transforms into a festive wonderland. Streets are dressed in glittering lights, Christmas markets pop up in charming plazas, and the whole country seems to hum with celebration. In both Barcelona and Seville, we stumbled upon local holiday events, nativity displays, and small concerts that made us feel like part of the community. There’s a warmth in the air – not just from the mulled wine, but from the way the cities come alive with joy, generosity, and tradition.

Barcelona: Why visit in December

We flew from Seattle to Barcelona with United Airlines, snagging a better deal than what we found from Vancouver. Our 8-day stay in Barcelona gave us just the right mix of work and wander, leaving us craving for more. It was a delightful glimpse into this vibrant city, made even more special by the festive December charm.

Wow what a city, there’s something so electric about Barcelona. It’s effortlessly cool yet steeped in culture. One of the highlights was the food! We ate an embarrassing amount of vegetarian paella. The richness of saffron, artichokes, green beans, and roasted red peppers in every bite, absolute heaven. And with so many vegetarian-friendly spots, we never felt like we were missing out.

Walking through the Gothic Quarter under twinkling Christmas lights was like stepping back in time. The narrow cobblestone lanes were lined with artisanal shops, buzzing tapas bars, and festive storefronts. Plaça de Catalunya’s Christmas market was smaller than some others in Europe but had its own unique Catalan charm.

We stayed at Catalonia Barcelona Plaza, located right on Plaça d'Espanya, it offered quick access to the metro, beautiful Montjuïc views from the rooftop, and a cozy, comfortable room where we could work and relax after a day of exploring.

Best Areas to Stay in Barcelona

Eixample: Our favorite. It’s central, walkable, and packed with modernist architecture, plus easy access to coworking cafés. The wide avenues and grid layout make it easy to navigate.
Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic): If you love history and ambiance, this is the place. Charming alleys, hidden courtyards, and tons of character. Just keep in mind that it can be a bit noisy at night.
Gràcia: A bohemian, village-like neighborhood with local charm. Fewer tourists and full of indie boutiques and tapas joints.
El Born: Great for foodies and art lovers. It’s close to the Picasso Museum and Parc de la Ciutadella, and has a ton of personality.

Wherever you stay, Barcelona’s metro system makes it super easy to explore beyond your neighborhood.

Best Places to Eat in Barcelona

1. Teresa Carles (100% Plant-Based)
A must-visit! Everything here is beautifully prepared and flavorful. Their mushroom risotto and vegan croquettes were standouts.

2. Flax & Kale (Mostly Plant-Based)
Trendy, health-forward, and delicious. Try their sweet potato gnocchi and kombucha – it’s a great lunch spot between sightseeing.

3. Vegetalia (100% Vegetarian)
This place is an absolute gem for veggie paella. We stumbled upon their cozy location in El Gòtic, and ended up loving it so much that we ate here at least 3 times (guilt-free)!

4. Caravelle (Brunch)
Located close to the Gothic Quarter, this was our favourite brunch spot, they have some really amazing dishes with global inspiration. Their pancakes were so good!

Top Things to Do in Barcelona in December

1. Explore Sagrada Familia

Even in winter, the Sagrada Familia is a masterpiece. We booked a morning slot to avoid the crowd, and the winter sunlight streaming through the stained glass windows was breathtaking. While we personally found Gaudí’s style a bit too eclectic for our taste, we still appreciated the craftsmanship and vision. If you’re a fan of unique architecture or art history, this place will leave you in awe.

2. Stroll Down La Rambla

Lined with lights and performers, La Rambla in December is vibrant without being overwhelming. Just off the street, you’ll find La Boqueria Market — grab some fresh fruit juice or olives for a quick snack.

3. Park Güell

While it was chillier up there, the views of the city and Gaudí’s whimsical architecture made it worth it. Go early morning to get those golden hour shots. Even though Gaudí isn’t quite our style, the park’s layout and vibrant colors make it an interesting stop.

4. Christmas Markets

Don’t miss Fira de Santa Llúcia near the Cathedral. It’s the oldest Christmas market in Barcelona and has beautiful handmade decorations, nativity figures, and local treats.

5. Beach Walks at Barceloneta

The water is quite cold in the winter so you can’t really swim unless, just a cozy walk along the sand and maybe a hot drink at a beachfront café. The sea in winter has a serene, calming vibe.

6. Bunkers del Carmel Viewpoint

This lesser-known spot offers one of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city. We went just before sunset, and the sky turned into cotton candy. Bring a blanket, some snacks, and take it all in – it’s a peaceful escape from the busier tourist hubs.

7. Temple of the Sacred Heart of Jesus

Perched high above the city, this church is both beautiful and historic. You can reach it via funicular or bus, and the views from the top are unbeatable. There’s even a small amusement park next door, adding a quirky charm to the experience.

8. Museu de la Xocolata (Chocolate Museum)

Perfect for a fun, lighthearted break in your day. We learned about chocolate’s history and saw detailed chocolate sculptures. And of course, you get a little treat with your ticket.

Seville: Perfect Destination for December

After a week in Barcelona, we caught a short flight to Seville and within minutes of landing, we were completely enchanted by its Andalusian charm. There’s a certain kind of magic in Seville that’s hard to put into words. The air felt warmer, the pace slower, and the atmosphere wrapped us in this cozy, sun-drenched embrace. Orange trees lined nearly every street, their fruit glowing like ornaments against whitewashed buildings. We’d walk past hidden courtyards and hear the soft strumming of flamenco guitar drifting out, as if the city itself had a soundtrack. Compared to the buzzing energy of Barcelona, Seville moved at a gentler, more romantic rhythm which was perfect for a working holiday.

Seville in December felt like a storybook town dressed up for the holidays – twinkling lights in narrow lanes, nativity scenes in old stone plazas, and locals gathering for late-night tapas under patio heaters. We’d log off from meetings and find ourselves walking along the Guadalquivir River at golden hour, or sipping wine in a quiet square as church bells rang in the background. The days felt longer, the sun a little brighter, and life a lot more beautiful.

Best Areas to Stay in Seville

Santa Cruz – Ideal for first-time visitors, historic, it’s walkable and very central to all main sights, and bursting with character. A picturesque maze of narrow alleys and whitewashed buildings. This old Jewish quarter is packed with cobbled walkways charm.
Triana – Located across the Guadalquivir River, this neighborhood has a strong flamenco spirit and a local, authentic feel. It’s perfect if you want a slightly more residential experience with incredible food options and riverside views.
El Arenal – A great pick for those who want to be near the Guadalquivir river and within walking distance of the major attractions. It’s slightly less touristy than Santa Cruz but still very central.
Alameda de Hércules – Trendier and more bohemian, this area is full of lively bars, cafés, and art spaces. If you like a youthful, buzzing atmosphere with more nightlife, this could be your spot.

We stayed in an Airbnb in El Arenal. This area had the perfect balance - very close to iconic sights like the Seville Cathedral and the Royal Alcázar, yet tucked away enough to feel like a local. The streets were full of character, with traditional architecture, hidden tapas bars, and little bakeries that tempted us each morning.

Best Places to Eat in Seville

Seville has no shortage of great food and we were pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to find vegetarian options in such a traditionally meat-heavy region. Here are a few spots we loved:

1. La Bartola (Vegetarian-friendly)
Located in Santa Cruz, this place had one of the best veggie tapas menus we found. Their Thai red rice with vegetables and romesco sauce was unforgettable. Great ambiance for a cozy dinner.

2. El Pinton (Vegetarian-friendly)
Trendy yet traditional, this spot combines modern design with classic flavors. They had several vegetarian dishes on the menu and they had read really great cocktails. The interiors are gorgeous, and it’s great for a slightly fancier night out.

3. Filo (Breakfast)
They serve an incredible açaí bowl and just what we needed to start the day. We’d swing by every morning for our daily coffee fix and their delicious homemade orange juice, which tasted like sunshine in a glass.

Must-do Day Trip from Seville

One of our best days was the road trip we took from Seville to Zahara de la Sierra via Ronda. This road trip deserves its own little love letter. We rented a car and started early from Seville, heading towards Ronda. The drive itself is a visual feast — rolling hills, olive groves, and charming white villages scattered along the landscape.

In Ronda, we visited the iconic Puente Nuevo, which spans the deep El Tajo gorge. Standing there, looking over the cliffs, you feel like you’re in a fantasy novel.

From Ronda, we continued to Zahara de la Sierra. This little village absolutely stole our hearts. Whitewashed houses cling to the hillside, and orange trees line every street. We grabbed a quick bite in a local café with views of the reservoir and then walked up to the old castle ruins. Peaceful, stunning, unforgettable.

Things to Do in Seville in December

1. Visit the Royal Alcázar

This royal palace is truly a masterpiece of Mudéjar architecture — think intricate tilework, lush gardens, and peaceful courtyards that feel frozen in time. Visiting in December was a huge plus — the cooler weather made it comfortable to stroll for hours, and the smaller crowds meant we could actually pause and admire the details.

2. Seville Cathedral and La Giralda

You can’t visit Seville without stepping into its iconic cathedral, one of the largest in the world. We were blown away by the sheer scale, the golden altarpiece, and the fact that Christopher Columbus is buried here. Climbing the Giralda Tower is surprisingly easy (no stairs, just ramps!) and you’re rewarded with sweeping 360-degree views of Seville’s rooftops and historic buildings

3. Plaza de España

The Plaza is enormous and spectacular, a semi-circle of Renaissance-meets-Moorish architecture, a peaceful canal with little rowboats, and hand-painted tile alcoves representing every Spanish province. We actually came here twice, once during the day and again at sunset and it was beautiful.

4. Try Churros at El Comercio

This is one of the oldest bar of Seville and the rustic setting immerses us into history. Their churros are perfectly crispy, and the thick, rich hot chocolate is basically drinkable pudding. We stopped by one chilly evening, and it was pure comfort. Tip: It gets busy with locals around breakfast and merienda so go early or mid-morning for the best seat.

5. Flamenco in the Jewish Quarter

One of our most memorable nights in Seville was stumbling into a small flamenco performance tucked inside a hidden courtyard in Santa Cruz. No massive crowds or flashing cameras – just raw, emotional storytelling through dance and music.

6. Casa de Pilatos

This lesser-known palace was a pleasant surprise. It’s a gorgeous blend of Mudéjar, Gothic, and Renaissance styles, with peaceful patios, colorful tiles, and unique sculptures throughout. We loved how quiet it was, almost like having a private palace to ourselves.

7. Barrio de Santa Cruz

Even though we stayed in El Arenal, we spent a lot of time getting lost (intentionally) in Santa Cruz. The winding alleys, flower-covered balconies, and hidden plazas made it feel like a real-life maze of beauty. It’s also packed with great tapas bars, so it’s perfect for an early evening wander that turns into dinner.

Working and Traveling in Spain

Remote work during this trip was surprisingly smooth. Both our hotel and Airbnb had solid Wi-Fi, and we found great local cafés to work from when we needed a change of scenery. Time zone-wise, Spain is 9 hours ahead of PST, so we worked from 5 PM to 1 AM local time. That gave us the entire day to explore without compromising on work. Couple of days we worked from 2 PM to 8 PM so we would explore the night vibe of the city. We used La Vaca Coworking afternoon pass which was very economical and was just 15 mins walking from our hotel.

The key? Good planning and sticking to a routine. We made the most of mornings for sightseeing, grabbed an early dinner, and then settled into work mode. Honestly, having a whole city to yourself during the day while others are at work or school felt like a travel cheat code. If you’re considering remote work while traveling, Spain makes it easy, friendly locals, great food, excellent infrastructure, and a culture that naturally encourages balance.

Spain offers one of the easiest digital nomad visas in Europe. Check out our blog where we ranked the easiest digital nomad visas in Europe and start planning your extended work-and-travel adventure.

FAQs: Spain in December

Is December a good time to visit Spain?

Yes, Spain in December is one of the best times to visit if you’re looking for fewer crowds, festive lights, and mild winter weather.

Are restaurants and shops open in Spain during Christmas and New Year?

Most restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions stay open in December, but do check ahead for holiday hours. Christmas Eve (December 24), Christmas Day (December 25), New Year’s Eve (December 31), and New Year’s Day (January 1) may have reduced hours or closures, especially in smaller towns. We recommend booking Christmas dinners in advance.

What should I wear in Spain in December?

Packing layers is ideal for Spain in winter. Daytime temperatures in cities like Barcelona and Seville range from 12–18°C (50s–60s °F), so you’ll want light sweaters, a warm jacket, a scarf, and gloves for cooler evenings. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for cobblestone streets and long strolls.

Can I find vegetarian or vegan food in Spain?

Yes, Spain is increasingly vegetarian- and vegan-friendly. Barcelona has a vibrant plant-based food scene, and even traditional cities like Seville offer vegetarian tapas and dedicated vegan restaurants. We found plant-based versions of local favorites, including vegan tortilla and croquetas.

How is public transportation in Spain during winter?

Public transportation in Spain runs reliably in December. Barcelona and Seville both have excellent metro systems, buses, and affordable taxis. For regional travel or scenic drives, renting a car is a great option especially for Andalusian road trips.

Can I visit the beach in Spain in December?

You won’t be sunbathing or swimming, but visiting the beach in Spain in December is still worth it. We enjoyed peaceful walks along Barceloneta Beach in Barcelona, where many beachfront cafés serve hot drinks with ocean views. The coastal vibe is tranquil and refreshing, even in winter.

Is Spain a good destination for digital nomads in December?

Absolutely. Spain is one of Europe’s most digital-nomad-friendly countries, and December is no exception. Affordable accommodation, strong internet, good food, and a relaxed pace make cities like Barcelona, Madrid and Seville ideal for working remotely during the holiday season.

Final Thoughts

Spain in December was everything we needed – a mix of adventure, relaxation, productivity, and pure joy. The festive season added an extra sparkle to already vibrant cities, and the road trip added the perfect touch of off-the-beaten-path discovery. Whether you’re looking to escape the chaos of the holidays back home, soak in culture, or simply try the best vegetarian paella of your life, Spain has something for you. And if you’re working remotely? Even better. With the right setup, you can blend work and travel seamlessly.

We left Spain with hearts full of gratitude, bellies full of tapas, and a quiet promise to return 🥘💙