Malaga Weather in December: Mild Winter, Christmas Lights & What to Expect

December in Malaga is winter done differently.

While northern Europe shivers under grey skies, Malaga offers mild days, crisp evenings, and one of the continent's most famous Christmas light displays. The city transforms for the festive season, with illuminated streets, Christmas markets, and a warmth that goes beyond the weather.

For a bigger picture of when to visit Malaga, check our seasonal guide. But if you're coming in December, here's exactly what to expect.

Is Malaga Warm in December?

Compared to most of Europe, yes.

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.

That said, this is still winter.

Evenings cool significantly to around 8-10°C (46-50°F), and mornings can feel fresh. The key difference from summer is the temperature drop once the sun goes down. Days feel mild; nights feel properly cool.

The Costa del Sol earns its name even in December. Many days are bright and sunny, though you'll also see more cloud and occasional rain than in summer months.

What's the Temperature in Malaga in December?

Metric	December Average
Average high	17°C (63°F)
Average low	9°C (48°F)
Sea temperature	16°C (61°F)
Rainfall	69mm (6-7 rainy days)
Sunshine hours	5-6 per day
Daylight hours	9-10 hours
UV index	2-3 (low)

December is Malaga's coolest month alongside January.

The numbers show mild days but genuine winter evenings. The rain is real but rarely persistent.

Can You Swim in Malaga in December?

Technically possible, but only for the hardy.

The Mediterranean drops to around 16°C (61°F) in December, which most people find too cold for comfortable swimming. You'll see a few determined souls taking winter dips, particularly around Christmas and New Year, but this isn't beach holiday weather.

That said, the beaches are lovely for walking.

The promenades are quiet, the air is fresh, and winter sunsets over the sea are beautiful. Some chiringuitos stay open year-round, making a beachside lunch still very much an option.

Early December vs Late December

Early December (1st-15th)

• Quieter before the Christmas rush
• Christmas lights already on (from late November)
• Lower accommodation prices
• Some Christmas markets opening
• Good weather windows common

Late December (16th-31st)

• Peak festive atmosphere
• Christmas markets in full swing
• Higher prices around Christmas and New Year
• City centre very busy on key dates
• New Year's Eve celebrations

The Christmas lights switch-on happens in late November, so you get the full festive display throughout December. Early December offers the lights without the peak crowds.

Does It Rain in Malaga in December?

December sees around 69mm of rain spread across 6-7 days. This makes it one of the wetter months, though still modest by northern European standards.

When it rains, it often comes in bursts rather than all-day drizzle.

A morning shower might clear to afternoon sunshine. The Mediterranean pattern means rain can be heavy but usually brief.

What's the UV Index in December?

Low.

The UV index in December sits at 2-3, significantly lower than summer. While you can still get mild sun exposure on bright days, sunburn is unlikely.

You can leave the high-SPF sunscreen at home, though sunglasses are still useful for bright winter days. The gentle winter sun is pleasant rather than punishing.

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.

This shorter day affects planning.

Outdoor sightseeing is best done by mid-afternoon, leaving evenings for the illuminated streets, restaurants, and indoor attractions. The Christmas lights look best after dark, turning early sunset into an advantage.

What to Wear in Malaga in December

Pack for layers and variability. Daytime can feel mild; evenings are cool.

Daytime:

• Light jacket or cardigan
• Long sleeves and light sweaters
• Comfortable trousers or jeans
• Layers you can add or remove
• Comfortable walking shoes

Evenings:

• Warmer jacket or coat
• Scarf for cooler nights
• Closed shoes rather than sandals
• Extra layer for outdoor dining

Just in case:

• Compact umbrella or light rain jacket
• Waterproof layer for rainy days

The mistake many visitors make is packing only light clothes. December evenings in Malaga are genuinely cool, and outdoor events like the Christmas lights require proper layers.

Christmas Lights on Calle Larios

Malaga's Christmas lights are famous across Europe, and Calle Larios is the star attraction. The city's main shopping street transforms into a spectacular light show, with elaborate displays that change themes each year.

What to expect:

• Lights switch on in late November
• Musical light shows throughout December (usually from 6:30pm)
• The entire street becomes a pedestrian wonderland
• Crowds gather for the evening displays
• Each year brings a new theme and design

Practical tips:

• Go on a weekday evening for smaller crowds
• Weekend evenings (especially near Christmas) are packed
• The show runs every 30 minutes after dark
• Arrive early for the best viewing spots
• Consider booking a rooftop restaurant for a view without the crush

Christmas Markets and Festive Events

Beyond the lights, December in Malaga offers:

• Christmas Markets: The main market sets up near the port and along Muelle Uno. Find local crafts, seasonal treats, and gift ideas. Smaller markets appear around Plaza de la Marina and other central locations.
• Nativity Scenes (Belenes): Elaborate nativity displays are a Spanish tradition. The city sets up public scenes, and many churches and buildings create their own. A "ruta de belenes" (nativity route) guides you through the best ones.
• Zambombas: Traditional musical gatherings featuring flamenco-style Christmas carols. These happen in bars, cultural centres, and public spaces throughout December.
• Three Kings Parade (January 5th): If you're staying into January, the Cabalgata de Reyes (Three Kings Parade) is a major event with elaborate floats and candy thrown to crowds.
• New Year's Eve: Malaga celebrates 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.

Weather Along the Costa del Sol in December

If you're heading to other Costa del Sol towns, expect similar conditions:

Location	December High	December Low	Sea Temp
Malaga	17°C	9°C	16°C
Torremolinos	17°C	9°C	16°C
Benalmadena	17°C	9°C	16°C
Fuengirola	17°C	8°C	16°C
Marbella	16°C	8°C	16°C
Nerja	17°C	9°C	16°C

The whole coast shares the same mild winter pattern. Mountain villages inland will be noticeably cooler.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Malaga?

December is excellent for the right visitor. Here's the honest assessment:

December is ideal if you:

• Want to escape northern European winter
• Love Christmas lights and festive atmosphere
• Prefer mild weather for sightseeing
• Enjoy cultural experiences over beach time
• Want lower prices (outside peak Christmas dates)

December might not suit you if you:

• Want beach swimming and sunbathing
• Prefer long, warm evenings outdoors
• Need guaranteed sunshine every day
• Dislike cool temperatures in the evening

The honest answer: December offers a different Malaga.

The beaches are quiet, but the city centre sparkles. The weather is mild enough to explore comfortably, and the festive atmosphere adds something special. For a winter city break with Christmas magic, it's hard to beat.

The Bottom Line

December in Malaga is winter with a Mediterranean twist. The days are mild enough for comfortable exploration, the evenings are cool but manageable with layers, and the festive atmosphere transforms the city into something magical.

The Christmas lights on Calle Larios alone are worth the trip. Add Christmas markets, traditional celebrations, and the warmest winter weather you'll find in mainland Europe, and December becomes a compelling time to visit.

Come prepared for proper winter evenings.

Pack layers, bring a jacket, and embrace the early sunsets that make the illuminated streets glow. This isn't summer Malaga, but it has its own considerable charm.