![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter-7.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nThe Spain winter\nclimate<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe winter climate in\nSpain is seen as one of the mildest and best in Europe. But the temperature\nwill depend greatly on the part of the country and how far you are from the\nmountains or the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In the mountainous regions in the north, the Pyrenees, you can find many places where you can go skiing in the winter. But you can also ski in other parts of Spain, closer to Madrid and Valencia. And in the south, you can even go skiing and spend time at the beach on the same day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you look in mainland Spain, most places south of Valencia on the coast will have nice winter weather. More to the north of Valencia the climate gets a little bit colder and can be windy at time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Balearics islands<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Balearics islands\nlike Mallorca and Ibiza are usually a little bit cooler, but still, find many\nbeautiful days with temperatures of 17 \u00ba and even higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa Blanca<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSouth of Valencia, you find the Costa Blanca. It has many famous places like Alicante and Benidorm. Benidorm has a special microclimate that makes it very attractive as a winter destination. The average day temperatures on the Costa Blanca vary from a 27 in September to a low of 17 in January. Combined with an average of only 4 days with rain per month makes it clear why a lot of people are visiting a place like Benidorm of Calpe in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa C\u00e1lida<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe coast of the province of Murcia is called Costa C\u00e1lida. It has temperatures similar to the Costa Blanca in the winter. Mild temperatures of around 17 in January and rain remains scare. But on occasion, the coast can be affected by heavy rains, followed by nice sunny days a few days later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa de Almer\u00eda<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe climate at the Costa de Almeria is moderate in the winter with average daily temperatures in January of 18 degrees. But don't be surprised that there can be many days, like at the other costa's where the temperature will be in the 20s. It is the place in Spain with one of the least amounts of rain. In Almer\u00eda, the wettest month is December with only 30 mm (1.2 in) of rainfall. It is not strange that it even contains a desert were in the past many westers where filmed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCosta Tropical<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa Tropical is part of the cost that is at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The place where you can go skiing in the winter. Similar to the other costa's the winter is mild with temperatures of up to 16 in January. The wind blows frequently and brings some rain in the winter. December and January have on average up to 8 rainy days per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa del Sol<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe costa del sol is one of the most famous costa's with places like Malaga and Marbella. The winter is mild with long sunny periods, but they can be followed by bad weather with wind and rain. Cold days are scare with an average temperature of 17 in January, the coldest month. But the winter sees on average 6 to 8 rainy days. More than twice the amount from the Costa Blanca, but not a lot compared with places in the north of Europe or the US and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa De La Luz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa de la Luz is the most southwestern coast in Spain, it is not at the Mitterrandian cost but at the Atlantic Ocean. In winter the temperature gets down to around 16 in January. And it has around 6 to 8 rainy days per month, similar to the costa del sol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Canary Islands <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Canary Islands have one of the best winter climates, not hot, not cold. The Canary Islands belong to Spain and contain seven major islands (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro). They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coasts of Morocco. It is in a part of the Atlantic where a cool current flows and where trade winds blow mostly from the northeast. The normal winter temperature is above 20. The amount of sunshine greatly depends on the location of the island. On islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma the northeast of the island is green and sees much more rain, due to the trade winds. The South and southwest part is entirely different and looks more like a desert, with a lot less rain. This is also the location where most tourists will stay. The sea temperature is around 19 in January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find affordable\nhousing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe internet makes it\nmuch easier to find affordable rentals. Several websites can help with finding\nlong term rentals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- www.booking.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.airbnb.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.longtermlettings.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.thinkspain.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.expedia.com<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter-1.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSome tips for finding\nan affordable rental:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Check multiple websites. Sometimes you can find a better deal for the same location. Some properties also have their own website. Google the name of the property combined with the address.<\/li>
- Try to contact the owner of the house. Sometimes you can get a better deal for a longer rental period.<\/li>
- Sometimes starting the rental directly with the owner can be cheaper than using a rental website.<\/li>
- Use google maps Satellite view to see how the property is located.<\/li>
- Use google street view to see how the environment looks like. Often you get an idea of how the view will be. You can also see how you have to walk to places like the beach or other locations in the neighbourhood.<\/li>
- Most Spanish houses do not have central heating. This could be something to check as there can be cold nights depending on the location of the house. Some air conditioners can also be used to warm the room. Some houses will have a mobile heater that can be used for a really cold evening and nights.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter-6.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Balearics islands\nlike Mallorca and Ibiza are usually a little bit cooler, but still, find many\nbeautiful days with temperatures of 17 \u00ba and even higher.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa Blanca<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSouth of Valencia, you find the Costa Blanca. It has many famous places like Alicante and Benidorm. Benidorm has a special microclimate that makes it very attractive as a winter destination. The average day temperatures on the Costa Blanca vary from a 27 in September to a low of 17 in January. Combined with an average of only 4 days with rain per month makes it clear why a lot of people are visiting a place like Benidorm of Calpe in the winter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa C\u00e1lida<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe coast of the province of Murcia is called Costa C\u00e1lida. It has temperatures similar to the Costa Blanca in the winter. Mild temperatures of around 17 in January and rain remains scare. But on occasion, the coast can be affected by heavy rains, followed by nice sunny days a few days later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa de Almer\u00eda<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe climate at the Costa de Almeria is moderate in the winter with average daily temperatures in January of 18 degrees. But don't be surprised that there can be many days, like at the other costa's where the temperature will be in the 20s. It is the place in Spain with one of the least amounts of rain. In Almer\u00eda, the wettest month is December with only 30 mm (1.2 in) of rainfall. It is not strange that it even contains a desert were in the past many westers where filmed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCosta Tropical<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa Tropical is part of the cost that is at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The place where you can go skiing in the winter. Similar to the other costa's the winter is mild with temperatures of up to 16 in January. The wind blows frequently and brings some rain in the winter. December and January have on average up to 8 rainy days per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa del Sol<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe costa del sol is one of the most famous costa's with places like Malaga and Marbella. The winter is mild with long sunny periods, but they can be followed by bad weather with wind and rain. Cold days are scare with an average temperature of 17 in January, the coldest month. But the winter sees on average 6 to 8 rainy days. More than twice the amount from the Costa Blanca, but not a lot compared with places in the north of Europe or the US and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa De La Luz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa de la Luz is the most southwestern coast in Spain, it is not at the Mitterrandian cost but at the Atlantic Ocean. In winter the temperature gets down to around 16 in January. And it has around 6 to 8 rainy days per month, similar to the costa del sol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Canary Islands <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Canary Islands have one of the best winter climates, not hot, not cold. The Canary Islands belong to Spain and contain seven major islands (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro). They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coasts of Morocco. It is in a part of the Atlantic where a cool current flows and where trade winds blow mostly from the northeast. The normal winter temperature is above 20. The amount of sunshine greatly depends on the location of the island. On islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma the northeast of the island is green and sees much more rain, due to the trade winds. The South and southwest part is entirely different and looks more like a desert, with a lot less rain. This is also the location where most tourists will stay. The sea temperature is around 19 in January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find affordable\nhousing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe internet makes it\nmuch easier to find affordable rentals. Several websites can help with finding\nlong term rentals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- www.booking.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.airbnb.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.longtermlettings.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.thinkspain.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.expedia.com<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSome tips for finding\nan affordable rental:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Check multiple websites. Sometimes you can find a better deal for the same location. Some properties also have their own website. Google the name of the property combined with the address.<\/li>
- Try to contact the owner of the house. Sometimes you can get a better deal for a longer rental period.<\/li>
- Sometimes starting the rental directly with the owner can be cheaper than using a rental website.<\/li>
- Use google maps Satellite view to see how the property is located.<\/li>
- Use google street view to see how the environment looks like. Often you get an idea of how the view will be. You can also see how you have to walk to places like the beach or other locations in the neighbourhood.<\/li>
- Most Spanish houses do not have central heating. This could be something to check as there can be cold nights depending on the location of the house. Some air conditioners can also be used to warm the room. Some houses will have a mobile heater that can be used for a really cold evening and nights.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The coast of the province of Murcia is called Costa C\u00e1lida. It has temperatures similar to the Costa Blanca in the winter. Mild temperatures of around 17 in January and rain remains scare. But on occasion, the coast can be affected by heavy rains, followed by nice sunny days a few days later.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa de Almer\u00eda<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe climate at the Costa de Almeria is moderate in the winter with average daily temperatures in January of 18 degrees. But don't be surprised that there can be many days, like at the other costa's where the temperature will be in the 20s. It is the place in Spain with one of the least amounts of rain. In Almer\u00eda, the wettest month is December with only 30 mm (1.2 in) of rainfall. It is not strange that it even contains a desert were in the past many westers where filmed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCosta Tropical<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa Tropical is part of the cost that is at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The place where you can go skiing in the winter. Similar to the other costa's the winter is mild with temperatures of up to 16 in January. The wind blows frequently and brings some rain in the winter. December and January have on average up to 8 rainy days per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa del Sol<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe costa del sol is one of the most famous costa's with places like Malaga and Marbella. The winter is mild with long sunny periods, but they can be followed by bad weather with wind and rain. Cold days are scare with an average temperature of 17 in January, the coldest month. But the winter sees on average 6 to 8 rainy days. More than twice the amount from the Costa Blanca, but not a lot compared with places in the north of Europe or the US and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa De La Luz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa de la Luz is the most southwestern coast in Spain, it is not at the Mitterrandian cost but at the Atlantic Ocean. In winter the temperature gets down to around 16 in January. And it has around 6 to 8 rainy days per month, similar to the costa del sol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Canary Islands <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Canary Islands have one of the best winter climates, not hot, not cold. The Canary Islands belong to Spain and contain seven major islands (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro). They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coasts of Morocco. It is in a part of the Atlantic where a cool current flows and where trade winds blow mostly from the northeast. The normal winter temperature is above 20. The amount of sunshine greatly depends on the location of the island. On islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma the northeast of the island is green and sees much more rain, due to the trade winds. The South and southwest part is entirely different and looks more like a desert, with a lot less rain. This is also the location where most tourists will stay. The sea temperature is around 19 in January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find affordable\nhousing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe internet makes it\nmuch easier to find affordable rentals. Several websites can help with finding\nlong term rentals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- www.booking.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.airbnb.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.longtermlettings.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.thinkspain.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.expedia.com<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSome tips for finding\nan affordable rental:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Check multiple websites. Sometimes you can find a better deal for the same location. Some properties also have their own website. Google the name of the property combined with the address.<\/li>
- Try to contact the owner of the house. Sometimes you can get a better deal for a longer rental period.<\/li>
- Sometimes starting the rental directly with the owner can be cheaper than using a rental website.<\/li>
- Use google maps Satellite view to see how the property is located.<\/li>
- Use google street view to see how the environment looks like. Often you get an idea of how the view will be. You can also see how you have to walk to places like the beach or other locations in the neighbourhood.<\/li>
- Most Spanish houses do not have central heating. This could be something to check as there can be cold nights depending on the location of the house. Some air conditioners can also be used to warm the room. Some houses will have a mobile heater that can be used for a really cold evening and nights.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCosta Tropical<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa Tropical is part of the cost that is at the foothills of the Sierra Nevada. The place where you can go skiing in the winter. Similar to the other costa's the winter is mild with temperatures of up to 16 in January. The wind blows frequently and brings some rain in the winter. December and January have on average up to 8 rainy days per month.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa del Sol<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe costa del sol is one of the most famous costa's with places like Malaga and Marbella. The winter is mild with long sunny periods, but they can be followed by bad weather with wind and rain. Cold days are scare with an average temperature of 17 in January, the coldest month. But the winter sees on average 6 to 8 rainy days. More than twice the amount from the Costa Blanca, but not a lot compared with places in the north of Europe or the US and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa De La Luz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa de la Luz is the most southwestern coast in Spain, it is not at the Mitterrandian cost but at the Atlantic Ocean. In winter the temperature gets down to around 16 in January. And it has around 6 to 8 rainy days per month, similar to the costa del sol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Canary Islands <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Canary Islands have one of the best winter climates, not hot, not cold. The Canary Islands belong to Spain and contain seven major islands (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro). They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coasts of Morocco. It is in a part of the Atlantic where a cool current flows and where trade winds blow mostly from the northeast. The normal winter temperature is above 20. The amount of sunshine greatly depends on the location of the island. On islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma the northeast of the island is green and sees much more rain, due to the trade winds. The South and southwest part is entirely different and looks more like a desert, with a lot less rain. This is also the location where most tourists will stay. The sea temperature is around 19 in January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find affordable\nhousing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe internet makes it\nmuch easier to find affordable rentals. Several websites can help with finding\nlong term rentals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- www.booking.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.airbnb.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.longtermlettings.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.thinkspain.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.expedia.com<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSome tips for finding\nan affordable rental:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Check multiple websites. Sometimes you can find a better deal for the same location. Some properties also have their own website. Google the name of the property combined with the address.<\/li>
- Try to contact the owner of the house. Sometimes you can get a better deal for a longer rental period.<\/li>
- Sometimes starting the rental directly with the owner can be cheaper than using a rental website.<\/li>
- Use google maps Satellite view to see how the property is located.<\/li>
- Use google street view to see how the environment looks like. Often you get an idea of how the view will be. You can also see how you have to walk to places like the beach or other locations in the neighbourhood.<\/li>
- Most Spanish houses do not have central heating. This could be something to check as there can be cold nights depending on the location of the house. Some air conditioners can also be used to warm the room. Some houses will have a mobile heater that can be used for a really cold evening and nights.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The costa del sol is one of the most famous costa's with places like Malaga and Marbella. The winter is mild with long sunny periods, but they can be followed by bad weather with wind and rain. Cold days are scare with an average temperature of 17 in January, the coldest month. But the winter sees on average 6 to 8 rainy days. More than twice the amount from the Costa Blanca, but not a lot compared with places in the north of Europe or the US and Canada.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Costa De La Luz<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Costa de la Luz is the most southwestern coast in Spain, it is not at the Mitterrandian cost but at the Atlantic Ocean. In winter the temperature gets down to around 16 in January. And it has around 6 to 8 rainy days per month, similar to the costa del sol.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Canary Islands <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nThe Canary Islands have one of the best winter climates, not hot, not cold. The Canary Islands belong to Spain and contain seven major islands (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro). They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coasts of Morocco. It is in a part of the Atlantic where a cool current flows and where trade winds blow mostly from the northeast. The normal winter temperature is above 20. The amount of sunshine greatly depends on the location of the island. On islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma the northeast of the island is green and sees much more rain, due to the trade winds. The South and southwest part is entirely different and looks more like a desert, with a lot less rain. This is also the location where most tourists will stay. The sea temperature is around 19 in January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find affordable\nhousing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe internet makes it\nmuch easier to find affordable rentals. Several websites can help with finding\nlong term rentals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- www.booking.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.airbnb.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.longtermlettings.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.thinkspain.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.expedia.com<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSome tips for finding\nan affordable rental:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Check multiple websites. Sometimes you can find a better deal for the same location. Some properties also have their own website. Google the name of the property combined with the address.<\/li>
- Try to contact the owner of the house. Sometimes you can get a better deal for a longer rental period.<\/li>
- Sometimes starting the rental directly with the owner can be cheaper than using a rental website.<\/li>
- Use google maps Satellite view to see how the property is located.<\/li>
- Use google street view to see how the environment looks like. Often you get an idea of how the view will be. You can also see how you have to walk to places like the beach or other locations in the neighbourhood.<\/li>
- Most Spanish houses do not have central heating. This could be something to check as there can be cold nights depending on the location of the house. Some air conditioners can also be used to warm the room. Some houses will have a mobile heater that can be used for a really cold evening and nights.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Canary Islands have one of the best winter climates, not hot, not cold. The Canary Islands belong to Spain and contain seven major islands (Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, La Palma, La Gomera, and El Hierro). They are located in the Atlantic Ocean, not far from the coasts of Morocco. It is in a part of the Atlantic where a cool current flows and where trade winds blow mostly from the northeast. The normal winter temperature is above 20. The amount of sunshine greatly depends on the location of the island. On islands like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and La Palma the northeast of the island is green and sees much more rain, due to the trade winds. The South and southwest part is entirely different and looks more like a desert, with a lot less rain. This is also the location where most tourists will stay. The sea temperature is around 19 in January.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Find affordable\nhousing<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nThe internet makes it\nmuch easier to find affordable rentals. Several websites can help with finding\nlong term rentals:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- www.booking.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.airbnb.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.longtermlettings.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.thinkspain.com<\/a><\/li>
- www.expedia.com<\/a><\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSome tips for finding\nan affordable rental:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Check multiple websites. Sometimes you can find a better deal for the same location. Some properties also have their own website. Google the name of the property combined with the address.<\/li>
- Try to contact the owner of the house. Sometimes you can get a better deal for a longer rental period.<\/li>
- Sometimes starting the rental directly with the owner can be cheaper than using a rental website.<\/li>
- Use google maps Satellite view to see how the property is located.<\/li>
- Use google street view to see how the environment looks like. Often you get an idea of how the view will be. You can also see how you have to walk to places like the beach or other locations in the neighbourhood.<\/li>
- Most Spanish houses do not have central heating. This could be something to check as there can be cold nights depending on the location of the house. Some air conditioners can also be used to warm the room. Some houses will have a mobile heater that can be used for a really cold evening and nights.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nSome tips for finding\nan affordable rental:<\/h3>\n\n\n\n- Check multiple websites. Sometimes you can find a better deal for the same location. Some properties also have their own website. Google the name of the property combined with the address.<\/li>
- Try to contact the owner of the house. Sometimes you can get a better deal for a longer rental period.<\/li>
- Sometimes starting the rental directly with the owner can be cheaper than using a rental website.<\/li>
- Use google maps Satellite view to see how the property is located.<\/li>
- Use google street view to see how the environment looks like. Often you get an idea of how the view will be. You can also see how you have to walk to places like the beach or other locations in the neighbourhood.<\/li>
- Most Spanish houses do not have central heating. This could be something to check as there can be cold nights depending on the location of the house. Some air conditioners can also be used to warm the room. Some houses will have a mobile heater that can be used for a really cold evening and nights.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
An important point for non-EU residents: You can only stay in Spain (similar to all other EU countries) as a tourist for a maximum of 90 days.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are shops and\nrestaurants open in the winter<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nMost places at the costa's where you find winter visitors will have enough open shops and restaurants. Maybe not all the restaurants and shops are open in the low season, but there will still be plenty of choices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Places that cater more to Spanish summer visitors will have more closed shops and restaurants, but even in those locations, you will find some of them that are open. And in most cases, you don't have to travel far to find enough open places.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Keep in mind that\nsmaller stores in less touristic areas may have different store times, and can\nclose in the afternoon. Restaurants in popular areas will be open most of the\nday, but outside of the touristic areas will open from 1 pm for lunch and only\nafter 7 pm or 8 pm in the evening.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Particular for lunch you can find a lot of really good deals where they have a "menu del dia", a simple 3-course menu for around 10\u20ac inclusive drinks (mostly wine or water).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Most places also have a local market that visits the town once a week. There you can purchase all kind of groceries and other products. Check with the tourist office when and where they are in your neighborhood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For shopping, you will find a lot of smaller stores in the center of a town. Many places near the cost will also have bigger shopping malls. During the Christmas period in Spain, you will not find many sales. But it is still a wonderful time of the year. A lot of shopping streets and the shops themselves will have Christmas lighting and decoration. You can also find Christmas markets in many central squares that are worthwhile checking out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The winter sales normally start from January the 7th and can last until March the 6th. But the exact date can differ from region to region. During that time you can find a lot of good deals with discounts of up to 90%. A good way to start the year. Well-known designer cloth can still be expensive, but still less than what you would pay in big cities like London, Paris or New York.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDo I need to speak\nSpanish?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nOn the whole coastline and bigger cities, you will always find people that speak English. In more touristic places restaurants, shops and other places more focussed on tourists will be ok as well. Also, Hotels will always have people that can help you in English. The younger generation learns some English at school; even do the level is not always very high.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When you are visiting less touristic places, things can be different. In some of these places, there will be nobody speaking English. Asking a question can be more challenging, but with some help from Google translate, you will be fine as well. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some Spanish knowledge can help a lot. You can buy a Spanish phrasebook and learn some basic words. There are also a lot of free apps that you can install on your smartphone that can help, like Duolingo. With 5 min per day, you can learn a lot of basic words in a few weeks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Getting around<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nTraveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by plane<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has more than 40 airports across the mainland and the different islands. A lot of them have regular internal and external flights. A lot of the airports close to the coast are also served by low-cost carriers. But check if they have flights in the winter season. Vueling (low-cost carrier of the main Spanish airline Iberia) has a lot of internal and external flights and often offers good value for money. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you travel to one of the Balearic Islands or the Canary Islands a flight is the easiest way to visit them. You can reach the islands also with a Ferry, but this takes much more time. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nVisiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling by train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSpain has a modern, efficient and reliable railway system called RENFE. It operates regular services between many Spanish towns, and also with France and Portugal. There are regular, suburban and high-speed trains. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Traveling long distances between major cities can be done with a high-speed train or AVE (Alta Velocidad). The trip between Barcelona and Madrid, 500km (311 miles) only takes 2hrs 40 minutes, and between Seville and Madrid takes around the same time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check the RENFE website for the timetable (they have an English version). Times can be different on weekends and holidays. If possible buy your tickets in advance. For the highspeed AVE trains, you even have to reserve a seat. Tickets are cheaper when booked online. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visiting Spain from a nearby country by car can be convenient. A car gives you the opportunity to visit places in your own pace and easily visit harder to reach places. Spain has a good network of motorways (autov\u00edas) that are free to use, or toll roads (autopistas). On most toll roads you get a ticket when you enter, and pay with cash or a credit card when you leave the toll road. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, the B-roads are normally fine, but they can be a lot slower. Often they run parallel to the motorways, but they will pass through towns and villages, and can be busy during rush hour (depending on the location).<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Parking in small places will be free. But in bigger towns and touristic places you will have to pay for parking. There will be the option of street parking, and often there are one or more parking garages. Don't forget to check until what time they are open. Paying in most parking garages will be with cash or credit card. Some hotels will have their own parking, but sometimes it can be cheaper to find a public parking lot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter-8.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter-5-766x1024.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter-9.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.wintersunexpert.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/12\/Wintering-in-Spain-why-should-I-go-and-what-to-expect-in-Spain-in-the-winter-10.jpg\")
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<\/figure>\n\n\n\n