Malaga in December: Weather, Things to Do & Is It Worth Visiting?

While northern Europe shivers under grey skies, Malaga offers mild days, crisp evenings, and one of the continent's most famous Christmas light displays!

Seriously, the Christmas lights on Calle Larios are worth the trip alone.

For a review of every month take a look at my best time to visit Malaga guide.

What to Expect from the Weather in December

Daytime temperatures typically reach 16-18°C (61-64°F), which feels pleasant in the sunshine.

You can walk the city comfortably in a light jacket, sit on a terrace for lunch, and explore without the heavy winter layers you'd need further north.

Evenings cool significantly to around 8-10°C (46-50°F), and mornings can feel fresh. This is still winter and you'll need proper layers once the sun goes down!

The sea temperature drops to 16°C (61°F) but the beaches are lovely for walking, and some chiringuitos stay open year-round.

The UV index in December is low at 2-3, so you can leave the high-SPF sunscreen at home.

Okay, and that's the weather. Now for the main event - Christmas!

What's On in December

You can skip ahead to my calendar where I try to keep track of everything free happening in Malaga if you prefer!

No matter the month, there are always a few staples that are always worth catching if you're in the city.

Most museums are free on Sundays, as are the Gibralfaro Castle and the Alcazaba. P.S. The Roman Theatre is ALWAYS free.

La Merced market is the first Sunday of each month, and the Botanical Gardens are free on Sundays too.

But December is all about Christmas!

The Christmas lights on Calle Larios are famous across Europe. The city's main shopping street transforms into a spectacular light show with elaborate displays that change themes each year.

Musical light shows run every 30 minutes after dark - it's magical!

Christmas Markets set up near the port and along Muelle Uno, with local crafts, seasonal treats, and gift ideas.

Nativity Scenes (Belenes) are a Spanish tradition and the city sets up public scenes and many churches create elaborate displays.

Follow a "ruta de belenes" to see the best ones!

New Year's Eve celebrations happen in the streets, with the main gathering at Plaza de la Constitucion. The tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight (one for each bell chime) is taken seriously!

What are the best things to do in December?

December is perfect for a festive city break.

Walk the Christmas lights - Calle Larios is the star, but the whole city centre sparkles. Go on a weekday evening for smaller crowds (weekends near Christmas are packed!).

Explore the Christmas markets - browse local crafts, sample seasonal treats, and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Cultural sightseeing - the Alcazaba, Picasso Museum, and Cathedral are all quieter than summer. The mild weather makes outdoor exploration comfortable.

Day trips - December weather is perfect for exploring Ronda, the white villages, or the Caminito del Rey without summer heat.

Try tapas in Malaga Old Town - restaurant tables are available without booking, and seasonal specialities appear on menus!

Where to Stay in Malaga

From boutique hotels in the historic center to beachfront resorts along La Malagueta, Málaga offers accommodations for every budget.

The best area to stay is the Centro Histórico for sightseeing, or the eastern beaches for a relaxed vibe.

GREAT LOCATION

Room Mate Valeria

8.8

Centro Histórico

Stylish design hotel with rooftop pool and bar, steps from the Picasso Museum and cathedral.

From $120/night

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Molina Lario

8.7

Centro Histórico

Elegant 4-star hotel facing the cathedral with rooftop terrace and excellent service.

From $150/night

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BEST VALUE

Soho Boutique Bahía Málaga

8.5

La Malagueta

Modern beachfront hotel with sea views, close to the port and city center. Great value.

From $90/night

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See our accommodation guide →

What Time Does the Sun Set in December?

The sun sets around 6:00pm-6:15pm through December, with the earliest sunset around the winter solstice (December 21st).

Daylight hours are limited to about 9-10 hours.

Tours in Malaga

I'm a tour person myself, but there are good tours, and there are bad tours. Here's what I recommend.

Browse all tours →

Is December a Good Time to Visit Malaga?

December is excellent for the right visitor.

You get to escape northern European winter, experience spectacular Christmas lights and festive atmosphere, enjoy mild weather for sightseeing, appreciate cultural experiences over beach time, and get lower prices (outside peak Christmas dates).

The only reason to skip December is if you want beach swimming and long, warm evenings. But for a winter city break with Christmas magic, it's hard to beat!

Ready for Christmas Magic in Malaga?

If December's not quite perfect, maybe take a look at November and January.

If you need any help with deciding, you can always send me an email or contact me on any of my socials. I love helping.

I totally get that picking a month can be difficult, they all have something amazing to see, do and experience in them.

If you're ready to book that trip, take a look at my where to stay in Malaga guide for my recommendations. If you make a booking through here I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, and it helps support my blog.

Thank you for reading, and if you make it to Malaga please send your photos!