Perfect destinations to visit in winter

We know that winter does not seem to be one of the best times to travel at first. The weather is not usually good and that makes us prefer other seasons to make a getaway. However, Spain's privileged spots, where the weather is perfect almost all year round, are the perfect option for a change of setting. Moreover, the street decorations, winter markets, snow and the wonderful winter sun across Spain and France will give you postcard-worthy scenes. You're in, right?

Remember that the train is the most comfortable, fastest and most sustainable way to get around. Check out all the information about our tickets and discounts to travel by train. So what are you waiting for? Discover the perfect destinations to travel in winter with Renfe!
 

Winter destinations in Spain

Safe bets

Another option for spending a few days away from home in winter are the big cities. In fact, large cities like as Madrid or Barcelona do not slow down during the winter. Their shops are gearing up for the shopping and sales season and their cultural agenda remains as vibrant as ever.

  • Madrid. If you are a fan of big cities, the hustle and bustle and the endless shopping and leisure options available in these types of destination, then Madrid is the winter destination for you. Madrid's shops are packed with irresistible treats with the arrival of the winter sales season. Shopping aside, the capital is also home to an incredible range of gastronomic and cultural activities. One of them that comes highly recommended by Renfe is its musicals. Madrid's Gran Vía has been converted into Spain's Broadway with musicals to suit all tastes. Don't miss them!
  • Barcelona. If there is a national destination that combines the hustle and bustle of a large city, with the gastronomy and beaches of coastal cities and the leisure of a cosmopolitan city, it is Barcelona. In addition to Barcelona's charm and amazing spots for tourists, there's also beautiful beaches where you can enjoy a winter sunset, a pleasant walk or even a swim for the bravest! Tempted to experience Barcelona's most cultural side? You're in luck! Take a look at our guide to shows, plays and musicals, which you will definitely fall in love with.
  • Vigo. Without a doubt, one of the most popular Christmas destinations and for very good reasons. The city is lit up with almost 12 million LED bulbs that fill every corner of the best festive atmosphere. Throughout the city there are numerous Christmas activities such as the markets, the Monumental Nativity Scene or the gigantic Christmas tree and its light and sound show. And this is just the beginning, there is much more!

The south and its treasures

We are not at all original in proposing a visit to the south of Spain to escape the cold. But it is the perfect destination for enjoying more pleasant temperatures and making the most of them to partake in some rural, urban, or gastronomic tourism!

To this end, we propose you consider the following cities, which are unmissable on your winter itinerary to southern Spain.

  • Granada. Just imagine it: the imposing Alhambra with Sierra Nevada, covered by a white mantle, in the background. This is exactly what Granada is all about in winter, a city bursting with contrasts and endless options to be enjoyed both in the city and on the outskirts.
  • Málaga. Culture, history, gastronomy and lots of art come together in one of the most popular destinations on the entire Andalusian coast. There are many reasons why we recommend you visit Málaga: a stroll along its beaches, delicious grilled sardines or a good portion of culture and history in its old town are just a few examples.

Enjoy rural greenery

It is a fact: this is the perfect time to get out your hiking boots and enjoy the countryside in all its splendour. With this in mind, a few of the destinations we recommend during the winter months include:

  • Ordesa and Monte Perdido. Nestled in the province of Huesca, this magnificent national park encompasses the Ordesa, Añisclo, Escuaín and Pineta valleys and has been declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Impressive, right? This protected natural area is located in the heart of the Pyrenees, meaning a natural spectacle is guaranteed. And of course, you can't miss the city of Huesca.

    So grab your best mountain coat, gloves and walking boots and allow yourself to be dazzled by nature in its purest form. In addition, winter is a perfect time to enjoy the snow of the Pyrenees, a perfect plan for the little ones (and the not so little ones!) to enjoy. Our Train + Bus service takes you to destinations such as Barbastro, Monzón, Binefar, Graus, Benasque, Sabiñánigo, Jaca, Candanchú and Astún. Make sure not to miss a thing!
  • Calahorra. History, gastronomy and, as goes without saying, good wine. Calahorra has all the best ingredients: an authentic cradle of fertility and agriculture that saw these lands disputed by Romans, Muslims, Jews and Christians in ancient times. Tempted? The reality is even better!

    Treat yourself and discover La Rioja in all its splendour with a winter rural getaway to this region. 

 

Winter destinations in France

And what about a visit to the neighbouring country? This is now possible thanks to AVE (high-speed) International trains travelling between Spain and France.

Perpignan

A destination that you cannot miss this winter is . You can comfortably enjoy the city, as its winters are usually mild.

In addition, it is an ideal place for snow and ski lovers, as the city is very close to the Pyrenees. Who says no to a few days of skiing in the French Pyrenees? You can easily reach ski resorts such as Les Angles, Formiguères, Font-Romeu or Porté-Puymorens. Discover them all and enjoy the snow to the fullest!

Lyon

We also suggest a train trip to Lyon this winter. With slightly lower temperatures, although not too low, Lyon offers many activities to visitors in winter. One of the best examples is its many museums, where in addition to taking refuge from the cold, you will discover authentic cultural treasures.

Another plan you simply cannot miss is to enjoy one of the famous wine tasting sessions. "Côtes du Rhone" is one of the region's most popular wines. The city of Lyon is a wine city par excellence, so it is perfect for wine tourism lovers.

Its gastronomy is also part of its identity and is internationally recognised. Go ahead and taste some of its . The best way to warm up!

Narbonne

How about a visit to Narbonne? A unique destination to enjoy winter with the family. The city of Narbonne is famous for its Christmas. During the Christmas season, the city is decorated with lights and filled with a festive atmosphere.

Getting lost in its streets in good company and with a hot chocolate, while discovering More intimate parts of Narbonne, a fully decorated city, which becomes one of the best plans for this winter.

The city is full of plans for the whole family with a schedule of activities until 5 January. A must see are the traditional Christmas Markets. You'll love them.
 

 

Winter getaways with Renfe

Are you still looking for the ideal destination for that getaway? Check out , our recommendations, and start preparing your winter trips with us. The best Christmas markets; ski destinations; Christmas with the family; plans to enjoy on New Year's Eve or Three Kings; proposals for getaways in January and February; and much more!

You can also check out our routes as a source of inspiration. Remember that the train is the fastest, most sustainable and most comfortable way to get around. Get carried away with Renfe!