Spain Weather in January

 Season: Winter

 In short: Cold, low rainfall

Spain weather in January is cold. Actually, January is the coldest month there. Its monthly average temperature ranges from 4 to 12°C (39.2 to 53.6°F). However, Madrid and other mountainous areas of the Central Spain experience much colder temperatures, often falling below freezing at night and hovering around 10°C (50°F) during the day. Bordering the Mediterranean Sea, the eastern and southern Spain are warmer, with the average daytime temperature of 15°C (59°F) and nighttime temperature of 5-10°C (41-50°F). The average monthly temperature of northern and northwestern Spain is 5-10°C (41-50°F). In January 2024, Avila is the coldest city in Spain, with the average monthly temperature of -2-7°C (28.4-44.6°F).

The average precipitation of January is 56mm. Affected by moist air from the Atlantic, northern and northwestern Spain is relatively wet with the average precipitation of about 130mm. For those cities in the Central Spain, the rainfall is not abundant because of their inland location, and the average precipitation is only 40mm. Along southern and eastern Mediterranean coast, rain and fog carried by sea breezes occasionally fall.

In general, January is not the best month to visit Spain. However, there are fewer tourists compared to other months, so your trip experience might be better and travel cost is lower. Pack winter clothes to stay warm if you still want to go to Spain in January of 2025.

 The warmest cities in Spain in January

Seville: 5-16°C (41-60.8°F); Córdoba: 4-15°C (39.2-59°F); Tenerife: 15-21°C (59-69.8°F)

 The coldest cities in Spain in January

Teruel: -2-9°C (28.4-48.2°F); Avila: -2-7°C (28.4-44.6°F); Salamanca: -1-8°C (30.2-46.4°F)

What to Pack to Visit Spain in January

Considering the large temperature difference in different regions, it is advised to pack clothes of different thickness, like long-sleeve t-shirts, light sweaters, hoodies, jackets, trench coats, windbreaker, thick pants, hiking shoes and boots. Warm clothes, like wool overcoats and downcoats, are necessary for the evening hours or when the cold air blows. Besides, please remember to pack hats, scarves and gloves if you intend to go skiing or make more outdoor visits. In light of the UV index of 1-2, a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 could provide adequate protection for those who would like to enjoy the warming sunshine on the southern beaches. And thanks to the low rainfall, you only need an umbrella to deal with unexpected rainy weather.

Top Attractions to Visit in Spain in January

Tourism Rate: 
Since it is cold in January, the weather is not ideal for visiting Spain. However, it is a great time to go skiing and enjoy hot springs in the Pyrenees of northern Spain. And if you prefer warmer climate, travel south to the Mediterranean coast to soak up the sun. Below are some recommended attractions to visit in Spain in January:

1. Malaga

Malaga in southern Mediterranean coast attracts a lot of tourists in January because of the comfortable temperature and abundant sunshine. The Malagueta Beach is one of the most popular destinations here. Sunbathing on the beach is an enjoyable thing to do. A picture with the landmarks on the beach should not be overlooked. To appreciate the breathtaking sunset, you can also ascend the Alcazaba Castle at dusk, where you can also get a view of the entire town and the stunning beach. As the birthplace of Picasso, how could you go to Malaga without seeing his masterpieces? They are on display in Picasso Museum. Besides, you can completely immerse yourself in the history of Malaga by taking a city walk and visiting some of the old buildings that have been well preserved, like the Teatro Romano and the Malaga Cathedral.

Teatro Romano in January

Malaga Cathedral

2. Ourense

Maintaining a year-round water temperature of 60-70°C (140-158°F), numerous hot springs in Ourense make visitors feel warm and cozy in cold January. You can even try to boil the egg in hot springs! Termas de Outariz is one of the best in the area, offering indoor and outdoor hot springs. Especially, the outdoor atmosphere above the river is really pleasant, and you can soak in it at night while gazing up at the stars. You can also have a healing trip at A Chavasqueira, which is 500 meters away from Outariz and free of charge. After hot spring bathing, you can try some local delicacies. Restaurante Miguel Gonzalez and Restaurante Nova are Michelin-starred restaurants, but you need to make a reservation and choose the set menus in advance.

3. Baqueira Beret 

With 10 alpine ski slopes and 6 Nordic ski slopes, the Pyrenees Mountains are a paradise for many skiers. Among the various ski resorts, the largest and the best is Baqueira Beret. Since different trails have been developed here, any level of skiers can enjoy themselves. This is also a great destination for families because it has professional instructors, ski resorts, snow parks, and ski schools for children. At the summit of the mountain, keep an eye out for the avalanche sign as well. Apart from skiing, dining at the alpine eateries and cafes is also a worthwhile experience. Imagine yourself sipping coffee while perching atop a snow-capped peak. What an exciting memory it is!

Spain Travel Tips in January

1. Spain experiences comparatively lower temperature in January, so try not to stay outdoor too long. Instead, it is advised that you spend more time on indoor visits and wear enough warm clothes when you are outside.
2. Around the New Year, prices for accommodations and flights rise correspondingly. So you need to plan ahead.
3. If you plan to have a self-drive journey to those attractions in high-altitude and mountainous areas, anti-skid gears will be very helpful.

January Weather of Major Spain Cities

City	Temp.	Rainfall (mm)	Humi- dity  (%)	Sunrise /  Sunset
Madrid	2-12°C (35.6 - 53.6°F)	43	77	08:25-08:38 / 17:59-18:32
Valencia	7-16°C (44.6 - 60.8°F)	35	63	07:41-07:51 / 17:49-18:21
Barcelona	7-14°C (44.6 - 57.2°F)	46	73	08:04-08:17 / 17:33-18:06
Segovia	0-8°C (32 - 46.4°F)	65	77	08:26-08:39 / 18:00-18:32
Sevilla	6-17°C (42.8 - 62.6°F)	53	71	08:26-08:36 / 18:17-18:47
Granada	2-13°C (35.6 - 55.4°F)	54	72	08:18-08:28 / 18:08-18:38
Bilbao	5-13°C (41 - 55.4°F)	126	72	08:27-08:42 / 17:47-18:22
San Sebastián	6-11°C (42.8 - 51.8°F)	148	75	08:39-08:55 / 17:58-18:34
Salamanca	-1-8°C (30.2 - 46.4°F)	31	84	08:32-08:45 / 18:06-18:39
Valladolid	-1-7°C (30.2 - 44.6°F)	42	83	08:30-08:44 / 18:00-18:30
Malaga	7-17°C (44.6 - 62.6°F)	49	71	08:19-08:28 / 18:13-18:42
Toledo	2-11°C (35.6 - 51.8°F)	28	78	08:24-08:35 / 18:03-18:34
Córdoba	4-15°C (39.2 - 59°F)	64	69	08:23-08:33 / 18:11-18:41