Is the Costa Blanca warm in winter?

Yes, by European standards. Daytime temperatures are typically 15–18°C from November to February, with sunshine most days. It is not beach-holiday weather, but comfortable for walking, golf, cycling and eating outdoors at lunchtime.

How much does a winter rental cost?

A two-bedroom apartment costs €500–€800/month for a long-term winter let (October–April). This is 50–70% less than summer weekly rates. Many include bills. Short winter breaks are also available at weekly rates.

Is there much to do in winter?

Plenty. Golf, hiking, cycling, markets, restaurant dining, day trips to inland villages, and a busy social calendar organised by the expat community. Cultural events continue year-round, and Christmas celebrations are a highlight.

Malaga cityscape bathed in sunset light with cathedral silhouette

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Travel Guide

Winter Sun Escapes

By Maya Kallio•Updated April 2026•8 min read• Fact-checked April 2026

Quick Answer

Winter on the Costa Blanca means 16–18°C daytime highs, sunshine, and 50–70% lower rental prices. Perfect for golf, hiking, long walks and exploring without summer crowds. Winter lets run October–April with 2-bed apartments from €500/month.

Essential	Details
Winter temps	15–18°C (daytime)
Rainfall	4–6 rainy days/month
Rental prices	50–70% less than summer
2-bed apartment	From €500/month (long-term)

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Key Takeaways

✓Daytime highs of 16–18°C with 300+ sunny days a year.
✓Winter lets offer 50–70% savings compared to summer rates.
✓Ideal for golf, hiking and cycling without the summer heat.
✓The expat community keeps restaurants and social life buzzing year-round.
✓Spanish Christmas celebrations run from 24 December to 6 January.

1. Winter Weather

While much of Europe shivers, the Costa Blanca enjoys average daytime highs of 16–18°C from November to February. Rain falls mainly in short, intense bursts — typically just 4–6 days per month — and clear blue skies are the norm.

Sea temperatures drop to around 14–15°C, which is too cool for most swimmers, but perfect for coastal walks. Evenings can be cool (8–12°C), so pack a jacket and a light fleece. Central heating is rare in Spanish homes, but good air-con units work in reverse as heaters.

2. Long-Stay Rentals

Winter lets (typically October–April) offer significant savings compared to summer rates. A two-bedroom apartment in Torrevieja or Orihuela Costa can be rented for €500–€800 per month in winter. OceanHome specialises in long-stay winter rentals with all bills included.

Many long-stay visitors book for 3–6 months, settling into a routine of morning walks, markets, golf, and social activities with the established expat community. High-speed internet is standard, making it increasingly popular with remote workers too.

3. What to Do in Winter

The cooler months are ideal for hiking in the Sierra de Bernia, cycling the Via Verde greenway, or exploring inland towns like Guadalest and Finestrat without the summer crowds. Weekly markets continue year-round, and restaurants serve hearty winter dishes such as olleta alicantina and cocido.

Golf is at its best from October to May — comfortable temperatures, lush fairways and lower green fees. The large expat community organises walking groups, language exchanges, charity events and social clubs that run throughout the winter.

4. Christmas & New Year

Spanish Christmas celebrations extend from Nochebuena (24 December) through to Reyes (6 January). Town centres are decorated with lights, and many municipalities stage live nativity scenes (belenes vivientes).

New Year’s Eve is celebrated with the tradition of eating twelve grapes at midnight — one on each stroke of the clock for good luck. Many town squares hold free public celebrations. The Three Kings parade (5 January) is a spectacular event in every town, with camels, sweets thrown to children and enormous floats.