Forget the winter blues with Christmas in Málaga

Forget the winter blues with Christmas in Málaga

198 properties for Christmas. Compare and book at the best price!

Enjoy Málaga at Christmas for a sunkissed festive season

You already love the Costa del Sol in the summer months - but what about Málaga at Christmas? Over the Christmas period, Málaga is transformed into one of Europe's best destinations for winter sunshine. If your idea of the perfect Christmas involves slipping on a pair of sunglasses and going for a walk along the beach, spending Christmas in Málaga is for you. Snowmen can wait - this year, enjoy magical Málaga over the festive season.

Start your search

Planning a Christmas holiday in Málaga

Why should I choose Málaga for my Christmas holiday?

Málaga, the largest city on Spain's ever-popular Costa del Sol, is a great choice for a Christmas break. Experience a different side of the Costa del Sol by looking for holiday lettings in Málaga near the city centre, particularly around Calle Larios. This is a great place to stay for Christmas in Málaga because it's where you'll find the city's famous Christmas lights. Often considered the best in Spain, these illuminations will put a smile on anyone's face. They transform the city centre into a real winter wonderland, and can't fail to get you in the Christmas spirit. Another highlight of Málaga at Christmas is the chance to enjoy some winter sunshine. Mild, pleasant weather and long hours of sun await you. Take a stroll along the seafront and feel your winter blues melting away.

What kinds of Christmas traditions can I discover in Málaga?

As well as its stunning light shows, Málaga has some great Christmas markets. The best is the Muelle Uno market, which usually runs from late November until early January. It offers fun for all the family, with games and funfair rides to keep the kids happy while you stock up on artisanal gifts and local handicrafts. Another fun local tradition to see is the placement of the belenes, or nativity scenes. One of the largest of these displays can be seen at the City Hall, but you'll find more all over the city, often decorating shop windows.

Find Christmas in Malaga

FAQs: Christmas in Malaga

What's the weather like in Málaga at Christmas?

By day, you can expect highs of around 18°C. Even in the middle of the night, the temperature rarely drops below 8°C. You'll need a jacket for chilly evenings, but forget the winter coat and gloves. In December, Málaga is mild and sunny during the day, and you may even want to head to the beach. Just keep in mind that the Mediterranean is pretty cold at this time of year. You'll always see some brave locals taking a dip, but you may not want to join them unless you're feeling very daring!

Are shops and restaurants closed in Málaga over the Christmas period?

Both Christmas Day and New Year's Day are public holidays in Málaga, and many shops and restaurants will be closed. That being said, this is a popular tourist destination, so you'll always find some establishments open. That's particularly true when you look for restaurants and shops that cater specifically to visitors. Many of Málaga's more upscale restaurants are open on Christmas Day, serving special festive menus, but they will require advance booking. You'll also always find fast food joints and convenience stores open, even on public holidays.

Where can I celebrate New Year's Eve in Málaga?

The trendiest - and most expensive - New Year's celebrations in the area are in the nearby town of Marbella, where Spain's rich and famous flock to go clubbing. If you'd rather not pay eyewatering prices for a ticket, stick in Málaga itself. The main fireworks display takes place in Plaza de la Constitución. Locals gather to eat twelve grapes as the clock strikes midnight, a tradition which offers good luck in the year ahead. After that, you'll find lots of parties around the city that last all night.

What can I do with my children over Christmas in Málaga?

Málaga is always a child-friendly destination, including during the festive season. Many theatres have Christmas-themed productions, and you may even be able to find a pantomime in some expat areas. The Christmas Village in Muelle Uno has rides and attractions to delight youngsters. For Spanish children, one of the main Christmas events is also on 6 January, when the three kings bring them their gifts. To mark this important occasion, the Three Kings' Parade runs through the city centre on the evening of 5 January. There's a parade in every city in Spain, but Málaga's is renowned as one of the best, with lights, music, and beautiful costumes. The kings and their assistants throw sweets into the crowds - see how many you can catch!

What festive food should I try in Málaga at Christmas time?

Christmas cuisine in Málaga is all about the sweet stuff. Polvorones (shortbread), turrón (nougat) and roscos de vino (cookies containing wine) are all popular treats. After an evening at the Christmas market, there's nothing better than picking up a paper cone of freshly-fried churros dipped in chocolate to take back to your accommodation. For something savoury, join the locals for an indulgent seafood platter.