Published on
November 5, 2025
Spain is poised for another dynamic festive travel season, attracting both locals and international visitors for Christmas and New Year celebrations. With a combination of city breaks, family reunions, and the desire for winter sun in the Canary Islands, the holiday period is shaping up to be one of the busiest in recent years. The mix of destinations and the variety of experiences on offer will cater to a wide range of travelers, ensuring a lively atmosphere across the country.
Recent survey data reveals that 71% of Spaniards are planning to travel during the holiday season, spending an average of €803 per person. A significant portion of these trips have already been booked, particularly for domestic destinations, reflecting the growing trend of pre-arranged travel. The high demand for both city escapes and island holidays highlights the enduring appeal of Spain during the Christmas period.
Key Dates and Travel Patterns
Travel peaks around Spain’s public holidays, which include December 6th (Constitution Day), December 8th (Immaculate Conception), the Christmas-to-New-Year period, and January 6th (Epiphany). These dates generate considerable travel activity, particularly as many Spaniards take advantage of extended weekends and holiday breaks. The roads will be busier than usual, as private car travel remains the most popular way to get around. Early booking remains a key strategy for avoiding higher costs, with many travelers securing their trips well in advance to take advantage of deals.
Most Visited Christmas Destinations
Madrid and the Canary Islands are expected to attract the largest number of visitors during the festive period. In December and January 2023, Madrid welcomed 2.7 million visitors, excluding intra-regional trips. As Spain’s capital, Madrid draws tourists for its lively atmosphere, festive markets, and cultural events. The city remains a top destination for domestic travel, with family visits being a major motivation. Madrid also stands out for its holiday spending, which tends to exceed the region’s average for the rest of the year.
The Canary Islands also remain a top choice for international travelers. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the prime destinations, with resort towns such as Adeje and Arona in Tenerife, and San Bartolomé de Tirajana in Gran Canaria, drawing large numbers of visitors seeking warm weather and relaxation. The Canary Islands accounted for nearly a third of foreign arrivals to Spain last Christmas season, with average December temperatures reaching 21°C, making it a prime spot for those looking to escape the winter chill.
Madrid: A Leading Holiday Destination
Madrid consistently ranks as Spain’s most popular city for Christmas travel. In 2023, the city attracted over 2.5 million visitors, with 62% of tourists choosing to stay within the city. Madrid offers a mix of festive charm and cultural allure, making it a major draw for both domestic and international travelers. Family visits are a key motivator, as many people travel to Madrid to reunite with loved ones. During this period, the city also sees a significant increase in tourism-related spending, cementing its position as a top Christmas destination.
The Canary Islands: Winter Sun and Relaxation
The Canary Islands are a top destination for those seeking winter sun. Known for their year-round pleasant climate, the islands are particularly attractive during the Christmas season. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the standout choices, with many visitors flocking to the islands for a combination of relaxation and holiday festivities. The islands’ resorts are well-equipped to accommodate the high number of visitors, ensuring a seamless experience for travelers. With daytime highs averaging 21°C, the Canary Islands are perfect for those looking to enjoy a warm and relaxing Christmas away from the winter cold.
Barcelona: A Cultural Escape
Barcelona also remains a popular Christmas destination, attracting just under 1.5 million visitors in December and January 2023. Known for its unique blend of culture, architecture, and food, the city draws international tourists who are looking to experience its Christmas charm. The city offers a range of outdoor activities, from visiting Christmas markets to enjoying its winter festivals, without the crowds typically associated with summer tourism. With average temperatures of 14–15°C in December, Barcelona offers a comfortable climate for sightseeing and outdoor events.
Short Trips, Family Travel, and Spending Trends
Trips within Spain are often brief, with 43% of travelers planning to stay for three days or fewer. Just 27% of travelers opt for longer trips lasting three to five days. These short getaways are particularly popular during long weekends, making city stays and Canary Islands resorts especially busy during the festive season. Hotels and short-term rentals in city centers and coastal resorts are expected to experience high turnover rates.
Families are the most common travel group during the holiday season, comprising 48% of travelers. Couples follow closely with 27%, while 16% travel with friends, and 9% venture out solo. This mix of group types highlights Spain’s appeal to a wide range of travelers, from families visiting city centers to couples and solo travelers heading to beach destinations for some quiet relaxation.
UK–Spain Connectivity
Air travel continues to be a critical factor in facilitating travel during the festive season. Spain’s airports are well-equipped to handle the high volume of passengers, with record numbers of travelers expected over the Christmas period. The UK remains one of the largest international markets for Spanish tourism, and flights between Spain and the UK are likely to see a surge in demand during the holidays. London remains a key destination for Spaniards, further boosting two-way traffic between the two countries. However, travelers should expect higher prices and limited availability on peak travel days as demand increases.
As Spain prepares for one of its busiest Christmas seasons yet, the combination of cultural city breaks, family reunions, and winter sun escapes to the Canary Islands promises to make this holiday season a lively and prosperous time for the country’s tourism industry. Early booking and careful planning will help travelers take full advantage of the festive offerings and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience across Spain’s most popular destinations.
