Spanish city has 'world's best Christmas lights' and balmy winter weather

07 December 2023 , 17:11

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Malaga needs to be on your radar for a festive city break (Image: AFP via Getty Images)

Who said that a Christmas city break means you need to pack heaps of layers and brace yourself for Arctic-feeling winds?

There's one gorgeous Spanish city that offers plenty of festive cheer - and with temperatures of around 17C in December it won't be hot, but it won't be freezing either!

Malaga tends to be a popular destination in the summer as Brits flock to its soft sandy beaches and bustling resorts, but it very much holds its own in winter too.

It's also said to be home to some of the world’s best Christmas Light displays, reports the Express. That's because if you head to the pedestrianised Calle Larios, you'll find 16 breathtaking angels in an impressive show that runs three times every evening and lasts for about eight minutes. However if you're hoping for a good view, get there early, as it can get quite busy with crowds of locals and visitors alike gathering to watch the 3D projections on the city's iconic Cathedral.

People observe the Christmas lights on Larios street in Malaga (AFP via Getty Images)

For Brits hoping to tick some European Christmas markets off the list, Malaga won't disappoint. This year the market is running until January 6, 2024, so there's ample opportunity to explore. You can expect plenty of festive stalls at the Paseo del Parque market selling everything from gifts and decorations to mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, with a number of shops staying open into the evening for those trying to give Santa a helping hand by picking up gifts for the family.

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Oh, and foodies won't want to miss out on some traditional sweets including shortbread), marzipan, nougat) and borrachuelos (wine-flavoured fried pastries). You'll also find an impressive amount of decorations dotted throughout the city from Nativity scenes to twinkling lights and wicker figures.

Malaga is usually famous for its gorgeous beaches in the summer (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Getting to Malaga doesn't have to be a bank-breaking experience either. When we took a look on Skyscanner you could find flights from £25 each way with the likes of Ryanair and Wizz Air, no doubt as you're travelling outside of the peak season for Spain holidays. As for hotels, Kayak has stays from £33 a night.

It's not the only festive city you'll want on your radar. For those after an extra dose of festivities, Prague was recently named Europe's merriest destination. It's not surprising considering the Czech capital is tipped to have one of Europe's best Christmas markets. Add in the gorgeous architecture, snowy weather and cosy restaurants and bars, and it's no wonder that visitors from all over the world flock to the city every winter.

You'll find a lot of the festive action in the Old Town Square where a huge Christmas tree awaits along with a nativity scene, carol-singing choirs and plenty of stalls selling everything you could need for a picture-perfect Christmas.

Looking for more inspiration? Check out our Christmas markets guide which we're regularly updating with reviews, destination tips and deals that we think you'll want on your radar.

Julie Delahaye