February in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See (2024)

As the highest capital city in Europe and located deep in Spain's interior, Madrid's climate often feels more continental rather than the Mediterranean. It's relatively dry and snow is rare, but nights and mornings can be bitterly cold. Barcelona is further north but on the coast, so the sea keeps the city from getting as cold as Madrid.

The southern region of Andalusia, which is unbearably hot in the summer, stays relatively comfortable during the winter. Average temperatures in major cities like Seville and Malaga are significantly higher than in the rest of Spain, although still not warm enough to sunbathe on the famed Costa del Sol. If you're truly craving some time on the beach, then you'll have to catch a flight to the Canary Islands. Located off the coast of Africa but part of Spain, these islands are the only place in Europe where you can truly lay out in the sun this time of year.

In Northern Spain, not only do temperatures drop but it rains constantly. Occasionally, it does get cold enough for it to snow as well, especially if you're visiting higher elevations. Once or twice a year, the coastal city of San Sebastian gets snowfall on the beach, making for an unforgettable sight.

What to Pack

Unless you're planning to visit the mountains on a ski trip, you won't need heavy snow gear on a winter vacation to Spain, but you'll still want to bring at least one warm jacket that you can wear with other layers depending on the weather. Also, be aware that many of the country's older buildings have poor insulation and winter nights can be chilly. To start, a good packing list should include:

• Short-sleeve shirts for layering
• Long-sleeve tops or blouses
• A sweatshirt or cardigan
• A winter jacket, such as wool or down
• A lightweight scarf or pashmina
• Jeans
• A dress or slightly more formal outfit for evenings out

February Events in Spain

Without a doubt, Spain's biggest event that (usually) falls in February is Carnival. It's celebrated across the country, and each city typically holds its own special celebration, although a few cities really stand out with their annual festival. Round out your trip with other major events that highlight food, art, and history.

• Carnival: You'll need a costume and lots of stamina to keep up with this week-long festival. You're likely to find some type of celebration regardless of where you are, but if you're seeking out the best Carnivals that Spain has to offer head to Tenerife in the Canary Islands, Cadiz in Andalusia, or Sitges near Barcelona. Carnival celebrations across Spain were canceled in 2021.
• Festival de Jerez: Flamenco is a long-held tradition with roots in the province of Andalusia, and this annual flamenco festival celebrates that heritage in the town of Jerez (also famous for its sherry production). Witness some of the world's greatest flamenco artists right in their own backyard. The 2021 Festival de Jerez was canceled.
• ARCOmadrid International Contemporary Art Fair: Art buffs flock to Madrid for its many museums, but only in February can you visit this renowned fair of contemporary art featuring over 1,300 artists from around the world. It's typically held in February at the massive IFEMA Convention Center, but the 2021 Art Fair was postponed to July 7–11.
• Madrid GastroFestival: Madrid celebrates culinary culture each year as co*cktail bars, restaurants, and cafés all over the city come together and highlight the many dishes of Spain. Hundreds of eateries typically take part in this festival, allowing visitors to try everything from the most traditional tapas to original creations that you won't find anywhere else. However, the GastroFestival was canceled in 2021.
• Los Moros Y Cristianos: Many cities across Spain celebrate a historic festival called Los Moros y Cristianos, which literally translates to "Moors and Christians." One of the most famous is always on the first weekend of February in the small town of Bocairent, located in the province of Valencia. Citizens dress up in old garb and reenact epic battles from the Reconquista period, in this interactive event that brings out the entire local community. Most festivities, including the one in Bocairent, were canceled in 2021.

February Travel Tips

• Skip the Alps and hit the slopes in either one of Spain's acclaimed ski regions, the Pyrenees in the north or the Sierra Nevada mountains in the south. Both offer world-class runs and frequent powder snow for skiers and snowboarders.
• The Canary Islands seem far, but since February is the low season you can often find very affordable flights from Spain's mainland. The two biggest islands and best for visiting in the low season are Tenerife and Gran Canaria.
• Trains are a comfortable way to travel around Spain, but airlines often have off-season deals throughout February. Keep an eye out for domestic flights at insanely low prices.