where to visit spain in february

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February in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Spain may be Europe's best-kept winter secret. This Mediterranean country enjoys a much more temperate climate compared to the rest of Europe, much of which is blanketed in snow throughout February. Spain is also the only European country that you can visit during this season where you can hit the ski slopes and lay out on the beach, so it truly has it all.

Many people think of Spain and imagine a warm sandy beach on a hot summer day, perhaps with a refreshing pitcher of sangria nearby. But winter is also a great time for visiting, as temperatures are cooler and crowds are less overwhelming than during the summer months. It's also the off-season for traveling to Spain, meaning you could potentially save money on cheaper-than-normal flights and hotels.

Spain Weather in February

Spain has an area larger than California, so the weather varies significantly across the country. In general, February is chilly, but most major cities don't reach the sub-zero temperatures that other parts of Europe are concurrently experiencing.

As the highest capital city in Europe and located deep in Spain's interior, Madrid's climate often feels more continental rather than the Mediterranean. It's relatively dry and snow is rare, but nights and mornings can be bitterly cold. Barcelona is further north but on the coast, so the sea keeps the city from getting as cold as Madrid.

The southern region of Andalusia , which is unbearably hot in the summer, stays relatively comfortable during the winter. Average temperatures in major cities like Seville and Malaga are significantly higher than in the rest of Spain, although still not warm enough to sunbathe on the famed Costa del Sol. If you're truly craving some time on the beach, then you'll have to catch a flight to the Canary Islands. Located off the coast of Africa but part of Spain, these islands are the only place in Europe where you can truly lay out in the sun this time of year.

In Northern Spain, not only do temperatures drop but it rains constantly. Occasionally, it does get cold enough for it to snow as well, especially if you're visiting higher elevations. Once or twice a year, the coastal city of San Sebastian gets snowfall on the beach, making for an unforgettable sight.

What to Pack

Unless you're planning to visit the mountains on a ski trip, you won't need heavy snow gear on a winter vacation to Spain, but you'll still want to bring at least one warm jacket that you can wear with other layers depending on the weather. Also, be aware that many of the country's older buildings have poor insulation and winter nights can be chilly. To start, a good packing list should include:

• Short-sleeve shirts for layering
• Long-sleeve tops or blouses
• A sweatshirt or cardigan
• A winter jacket, such as wool or down
• A lightweight scarf or pashmina
• A dress or slightly more formal outfit for evenings out

February Events in Spain

Without a doubt, Spain's biggest event that (usually) falls in February is Carnival. It's celebrated across the country, and each city typically holds its own special celebration, although a few cities really stand out with their annual festival. Round out your trip with other major events that highlight food, art, and history.

• Carnival : You'll need a costume and lots of stamina to keep up with this week-long festival. You're likely to find some type of celebration regardless of where you are, but if you're seeking out the best Carnivals that Spain has to offer head to Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Cadiz in Andalusia, or Sitges near Barcelona. Carnival celebrations across Spain were canceled in 2021.
• Festival de Jerez : Flamenco is a long-held tradition with roots in the province of Andalusia, and this annual flamenco festival celebrates that heritage in the town of Jerez (also famous for its sherry production). Witness some of the world's greatest flamenco artists right in their own backyard. The 2021 Festival de Jerez was canceled.
• ARCOmadrid International Contemporary Art Fair : Art buffs flock to Madrid for its many museums, but only in February can you visit this renowned fair of contemporary art featuring over 1,300 artists from around the world. It's typically held in February at the massive IFEMA Convention Center, but the 2021 Art Fair was postponed to July 7–11.
• Madrid GastroFestival : Madrid celebrates culinary culture each year as cocktail bars, restaurants, and cafés all over the city come together and highlight the many dishes of Spain. Hundreds of eateries typically take part in this festival, allowing visitors to try everything from the most traditional tapas to original creations that you won't find anywhere else. However, the GastroFestival was canceled in 2021.
• Los Moros Y Cristianos : Many cities across Spain celebrate a historic festival called Los Moros y Cristianos , which literally translates to "Moors and Christians." One of the most famous is always on the first weekend of February in the small town of Bocairent, located in the province of Valencia . Citizens dress up in old garb and reenact epic battles from the Reconquista period, in this interactive event that brings out the entire local community. Most festivities, including the one in Bocairent, were canceled in 2021.

February Travel Tips

• Skip the Alps and hit the slopes in either one of Spain's acclaimed ski regions , the Pyrenees in the north or the Sierra Nevada mountains in the south. Both offer world-class runs and frequent powder snow for skiers and snowboarders.
• The Canary Islands seem far, but since February is the low season you can often find very affordable flights from Spain's mainland. The two biggest islands and best for visiting in the low season are Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
• Trains are a comfortable way to travel around Spain, but airlines often have off-season deals throughout February. Keep an eye out for domestic flights at insanely low prices.

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Spain in February: Weather & Things to Do in Spain

It’s the month of love, and you’ve planned a romantic getaway for you and your partner and have an idea of the best cities to visit , but you’re wondering what the weather is like in Spain in February.

In February, most of Europe is still deep in winter. Because Spain has regions like the Mediterranean coast, you get to experience the best of both worlds, whether skiing in the snow or sun tanning at the beach. The month of love in Spain has romance and relaxation to offer.

Before you pack your bags, let’s take a closer look at the weather in Spain in February and the best places to visit.

Weather in Spain in February

Spain’s weather in February is chilly. However, the temperature can vary depending on where you are in the country. Overall, the temperature in Spain in February can range between 4℃ to 18℃.

Although the country is cold, Spain’s temperature in February does not reach sub-zero temperatures like other European places. Winters in the capital city, Madrid, are usually dry and snow is rare, but mornings and nights can be utterly freezing.

If you’re looking for sunshine in the winter, fear not, as coastal Barcelona in February has sunny winters and isn’t as bitterly cold as, say, Madrid in February , for example. Cities like Malaga and Seville also have higher average temperatures but not enough to allow you to sunbathe.

So, when packing for your trip, you only need to pack heavy, thick clothing if you spend most of your journey in a ski resort. Pack warm but casual like your sweatshirts, long-sleeve tops, stylish jackets or hoodies, bottoms, or scarves.

Things to Do in Spain in February

Here are five of the best places to visit in Spain in February.

1. Visit the Barcelona Aquarium

If you love life under the sea, head to the Barcelona Aquarium . This aquarium in Moll d’Espanya del Port Veli costs 21€ (22.40$) per adult. There are 450 sea species of Mediterranean sea creatures in more than 35 exhibits. Watch and learn more about tropical sea life and also have the opportunity to attend various interactive programs.

2. Explore the Sagrada Familia

When visiting Spain in February, one of the best things to do is to visit the iconic Sagrada Familia . This is the world’s largest unfinished church, and it’s one of the most striking and sensational works of neo-Gothic architecture with ornate structures and double aisles. You can enjoy the less crowded Sagrada in February by exploring the museum and Nativity steeples.

3. See the Canary Islands

Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you cannot picture yourself walking on the sandy shores of white beaches under the clear sky. Winters in Spain can be sunny, allowing the cool breeze to caress your skin and soothe your mind. If there’s one place that cannot be left out of your itinerary, it’s the white beaches of the Canary Islands.

4. Tour the Alhambra

The Alhambra complex is 600 years old. When visiting this historic site, learn about its rich history and admire the splendid architecture. When you experience this moment, take in the tower’s breathtaking views of Granada and the surrounding mountains. You also have the opportunity to stroll through the beautiful Generalife Gardens and treasure the history of the Spanish-Muslim architecture of the Alcazaba Fortress and Nasrid Palace.

5. Get a thermal spa retreat

When in Spain in February, take the opportunity to pamper yourself into relaxation and spoils. Spain’s thermal spas are perfect for winter cold weather. You can visit the famous hot springs of La Garriga near Barcelona, or if you love luxury, visit Hammam al Amdalus spa in Andalucia and be prepared to be pampered.

Festivals and Events in Spain in February

Festival de Jerez

The Festival de Jerez is a flamenco and Spanish dance festival held over two weeks from mid-February. During this festival, every street corner and plaza echoes the sound of guitars and people singing. Then there’s a spontaneous parade of flamenco and the town erupts with a unique atmosphere. Enjoy the streets and take your partner dancing.

Andalucia Day

Andalusia Day is a public holiday in the region. It commemorates the referendum in which Andalucian citizens approved the Statute of Autonomy of Andalucia that took place on 28 February 1980.  It is celebrated with music concerts, parades, and cultural and sports activities.

FAQs About Spain in February

Is it Worth Visiting Spain in Winter?

It is worth it. Winters in Spain are mild compared to the rest of Europe. There are fewer crowds, and numerous unique festivals that you can enjoy. And even though it’s winter, you can still be sunkissed on the beach and have a ski day. There is so much to do in winter in Spain.

Is February a Good Time to Visit Spain?

Yes, February is an excellent month to visit Spain because the weather is cool, and tourist attractions have fewer crowds as it is off-season in Spain. The advantage here is that tickets are cheaper and you’re hassle-free to tour attractions.

What is the Warmest Part of Spain During Winter?

Spain’s temperature varies during winter. However, the southern region of Spain is most likely the warmest. Andalusia has the warmest temperatures in winter. Barcelona is also another warm area during winter; if you’re feeling island vibes, the Canaries are the warmest.

What Can I Eat in Spain in February?

Winter has seasonal delicacies, including plenty of seafood, comforting roasts, and winter veggies. Try something meaty like gammon, shellfish, and polvoron. There are so many mouth-watering Spanish meals for you to try out.

Final Thoughts on Spain in February

In closing, Spain in February is chilly however, regardless of the weather, there are so many activities you can enjoy. Thankfully, certain parts of Spain experience sunny winters, so you can still go skiing in the chilly morning and then end your day getting a sun tan on the beach.

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Spain in February: 8 Travel Tips, Activities & Weather

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Should you visit Spain in February? To be completely honest, it is not my favorite month, but there are many activities you can do in the last winter month.

After a long January, February is short and still very affordable to travel in Spain.

I recommend that you come towards the end of February so that you might catch better days in terms of weather.

In this article, I will give you plenty of ideas to organize a nice trip in February. If it is your first time in Spain, I recommend a big city plus something unique for that month, such as a carnival.

Table of Contents ▼ ▶

Travel tips

1. take advantage of excellent price deals.

February is your last chance to take advantage of great deals! The low season is about to end, and tourism companies know everybody in Spain is eager and desperate for their Holy Week holidays. 

Traveling in February will allow you to keep everything within budget just before the seasons start escalating toward Spring. The weather will be chilly, but we can create an ideal trip so you enjoy every bit of it. 

2. Experience a Spanish carnival

In Spain, the carnival is usually celebrated 40 days before Easter, so that it will take place by the end of February. You can visit three main carnivals while visiting Spain in February,  one of which is one of the best and biggest in the world!

• Carnaval de Cádiz:  16 - 26 of February.
• Carnaval de Sitges:  16 - 22 of February.
• Carnaval de Santa Cruz de Tenerife : 20 of January - 26 February

The carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife is in the top 10 of the best carnivals in the world. This carnival in Tenerife is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, incredibly worked floats, and the Carnival Queen Contest. 

To know more about festivals in Spain, read the article below!

• The Authentic Carnival in Spain and the 5 Places You Can’t Miss

3. Book your ski trip!

Spain has over 20 ski centers where you can enjoy the sport! Spanish people (in general) LOVE the mountains and truly enjoy skiing, so you can expect the ski resorts to be packed. 

So, if you visit Spain in February, know it is perfect for skiing. But you must make your  forfeit  reservations ahead of time because this sport is very popular. 

Below, I will link you to the official website for skiing in Spain, where you can find information on all the ski resorts, the best dates, and the tickets. In the “Activities” section, I will dive deeper into the three most popular ski centers, but if you want another one, the link below is your place to go. 

👉 ⛷️  Ski in Spain

4. Eat churros at San Ginés at San Ginés (for the last time!)

As the winter comes to an end, churros con chocolate becomes less and less appetizing. So if you are traveling to Spain in February, get a Spanish breakfast and head to a  churrería  in your host city. 

Of course, if you are in Madrid, you must go through the classic Churrería San Ginés and order a combo of six churros and a cup of hot chocolate. You won’t regret it!

To read more on Spanish breakfasts and add a twist to your own, check out the next featured article :

• 7 Best Typical Spanish Breakfasts You Must Try!

5. Experience the “Bodas de Isabel Segura”

The “ Bodas de Isabel Segura ,” or Isabel Segura’s Wedding, is the reenactment of a medieval love story from Teruel.

Teruel is a city in the region of Aragon in northern Spain; on the third weekend of February, the city remembers the story of the ‘Lovers of Teruel.’ A tragic love story (similar to Romeo & Juliet) based on legends from medieval Spain.

Since the late ’90s, a company of actors has put up the reenactment of the story in the streets of Teruel. Since the first show, more institutions have joined; today, it is a three-day celebration. 

So! If you want to experience a medieval show, I encourage renting a car and visiting the beautiful city of Teruel during the “Bodas of Isabel Segura.” 

6. Take refuge from the cold in a specialty coffee shop

If you find yourself walking through the cold streets of Madrid or Barcelona in February and need some caffeine to shake you up, you should go for some extremely good coffee. 

In Madrid, my favorite choice would be  Misión Café . Tucked away in the streets of Malasaña just a few minutes away from Plaza de España and Gran Vía, Misión will provide you with mouthwatering coffee and delicious pastries to warm you up before continuing the tour. 

In Barcelona, I would go to  Citizen Café , just a few minutes away from Plaça Catalunya. In this specialty coffee shop, you will also get carefully selected coffee from N.O.M.A.D and incredibly good brunch.

I will leave you the full list of the best coffee in Spain right here (including Sevilla!):

• 9 Best Coffee in Madrid: Guide to Top Brunch & Coffee Shops
• 11 Best Cafes in Seville for Brunch and Great Coffee
• 8 Best Cafes in Barcelona for a Unique Coffee Experience

7. Book your Valentine’s Day restaurant ahead of time!

If you are traveling with your significant other, and the 14th of February is part of your itinerary, book everything ahead!

Some people take Valentine’s Day as a commercial date (partly true), but having an extra excuse for a nice dinner with your partner is nice. 

So! If you want to grab some dinner on the day of love, I will leave you a link to the best restaurants in Madrid, Barcelona, and Sevilla:

• 13 Best Restaurants in Barcelona: A Food Lover’s Guide
• The 21 Best Restaurants in Madrid: A Food Lover’s Guide!
• The 19 Best Restaurants in Seville: A Food Lover’s Guide!

8. Visit la Quinta de los Molinos Park!

Madrid activity!  If you are in Madrid during the mid to end of February, you have to visit the Park Quinta de los Molinos.

This special park is located in the north of Madrid, and you can see the blooming almond trees there. It is a beautiful sight if you have never seen them before.

February is not a very rainy season, so if you get a day of sun, get a picnic basket and head to the park. Enjoy the almond trees view like any local would!

🚇Line 5 to Suanzes

 🚶🏽C. de Alcalá, 527

Formigal-Penticosa

Today, Formigal is one of the most popular ski places in Spain. This ski resort is located in the region of Aragon in the Spanish Pyrenees and is very popular among young students and young people because of its legendary snow party.

There is not much to see in Formigal during the winter. The ideal plan would be to stay two to  four days  in the village (travel days included), so you can walk around the place and enjoy some skiing, snowboarding, or other activities such as snow racket excursions and spa days in a hot spring. 

In addition, if you are in the party mood, you can get tickets to the famous snow party of Marchica. 

Know more about what to do in Formigal right here  👉  Formigal-Panticosa

Baqueira Beret

Baqueira Beret is one of Spain’s most popular ski resorts, especially because it is located very close to Barcelona. If the Catalan capital is part of your planning, you can book a day or two at the Baqueira Beret Ski Resort.

So, the Baqueira Beret Ski Resort is the biggest center in Spain, with  153 KM  for skiers to enjoy. As with any good ski center, you rent the equipment there and have plenty of food and beverage spaces to recharge energy. 

As the resort has three main mountains, there are food spots in each, so you have plenty to choose from!

If you go with kids or don’t know how to ski, you can always book classes or pay for the SnowCamp for your kids.  

If you don’t like skiing, you can also have other snow experiences  such as snow racket excursions, dog sledding, and riding a snow bike.  

For more information on the Baquiera Beret Ski Center  👉  Baqueira/Beret

Sierra Nevada

Less than an hour away by car from Granada, the Sierra Nevada Ski Station is the perfect ski resort if you plan to visit southern cities in Spain.

Most people assume that the country is hot all year round because of Spain’s Mediterranean weather and sunny days fame. But the reality is that Spain has four seasons! Andalusia might experience them differently than the centric and Northern cities in the country, but it does get chilly days and snow!

In the Sierra Nevada mountain range, you will experience snow during the winter months of February and early March. So, if you want to visit Alhambra in February, you might as well rent a car and enjoy skiing. 

Sierra Nevada has 110 km of piste, and the station is considered an intermediate space. Still, you can find off-piste routes for advanced skiers. 

The ski station offers food, but you can also take a little detour to the village of Pedrollano and get some traditional Andalusian meals.

If you don’t enjoy skiing, you can do other activities, such as an “Astronomical Observation.”

Find out more about skiing in the Sierra Nevada in February  👉 right here  at Sierra Nevada Ski Station .

Madrid will always be on the list; February in Madrid might be very chilly, but it is the perfect excuse for cozy rooftops and indoor tourism.

If you are an art or history person, the best season to visit Spain is winter, especially February. Because of the chilly weather, you won’t have any need to be outside all the time, so it is a perfect season to visit museums!

Visit the great Prado Musuem, Reina Sofía, Thyssen Bornemisza, the Sorolla Musuem, or even a tour through the Royal Palace early morning when it is the most chilly or late evening before closing hours. 

This way, you will take refuge from the cold during the chilliest periods!

At midday, you can grab some tapas at  Plaza de Sta. Ana , in the  Letras Neighborhood , the bars put nice heaters for you to enjoy cloudless chilly days in the terraces. 

As I said before, February is the best month for skiing in Spain , so if you still want to experience snow sports but don’t want to leave Madrid, you can do it!

🏔️**Can you ski in Madrid?**🏔️

The Port of Navacerrada is the perfect place to ski without leaving Madrid.  

The slopes in the Port of Navacerrada are intermediate, offering 19 pistes where skiers and snowboarders can enjoy some of their time. Navacerrada has a quaint town center where you can eat some fantastic  Raclette !

To get to the Navacerrada ski station, you can rent a car or go by public transport, which takes around two hours. 

For more activities in Madrid:

• 18 Best Tips & Tricks to Experience Madrid like a Local
• 30 Best Things to do in Madrid: Fun Activities & Food!
• The Best 13 + 1 Museums in Madrid: It’s Not All About Art!
• 18 Best Landmarks in Madrid Totally Worth Visiting in 2023
• 11 Most Beautiful Towns Near Madrid worth Visiting!
• Madrid in Winter: 13 Cool Things to do in this Magical Season

If you want to escape the winter and experience some warm days during your February trip to Spain, one of your best options in the peninsula is Málaga.

The weather in Málaga during February ranges from 18° to 8° degrees ; located on the bottom coast of Andalusia, it has a privileged climate all year round.

In Málaga, instead of skiing, you can visit the beach and beautiful white towns like  Nerja, Frigiliana, and Marbella . And, just like I mentioned in tip #8, February is the month of the almond trees bloom! 

You can see this gift of nature in the small town of  Cártama , which is 20 minutes away by car, and one hour away by public transport. 

Besides getting to know the beautiful city of Málaga, you could also enjoy a day in an  Arab Hamman  for full relaxation. 

This article has suggested activities in cities in different regions of Spain. You have four ski stations to choose from, including the top three in Spain. Remember that in all of them you should book your tickets ahead of time!

There are four options for snow lovers, and one for those escaping the cold. If you want more warm destination, you can check out our articles on Spain in December and Spain in January:

• Spain in December: 10 Travel Tips, Activities & Weather
• Spain in January: 9 Travel Tips, Activities & Weather

I have created a chart with the approximate temperature that you can experience in Spain if you visit in February.

Remember that all of these are approximations, and don’t forget to check the weather map when you are closer to the day of travel.

So, this is it! Now you have plenty of activities to enjoy in Spain in February. Just like in December and January, there is plenty of stuff to do for you to create your ideal trip.

If you have any other doubt, leave us a comment or find our Whatsapp number in our contact section. We will be delighted to hear from you!

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