Nerja in December: Christmas, New Year’s Eve and winter plans
Nerja celebrates Christmas with the charm of an Andalusian town: lights in the narrow streets, traditional nativity scenes and the chance to dine outdoors on many December evenings. New Year’s Eve at the Balcón de Europa is now a tradition for locals and visitors.
December in Nerja combines Christmas with Andalusian charm: festive lights in the centre, New Year’s Eve at the Balcón de Europa, nativity scenes in the churches and mild 17°C weather. It is low season (except over New Year and Three Kings), with good prices, ideal for sightseeing and winter hiking.
Source: esnerja.com — up-to-date local guide to Nerja
Weather in Nerja in December
High
17°C
Low
9°C
Sea temp.
16°C
Sunshine hours
6h
Rainfall
60mm
Rainy days
6
UV index
2
Beaches in December
Empty, beautiful beaches for walks. The sea (16°C) is cold for swimming. December sunsets from Calahonda or the Balcón are magical.
Hiking in December
A good month for gentle hiking. The coastal routes (Maro-Cerro Gordo Cliffs) are especially pretty in the winter light. Avoid rainy days.
Activities in December
Christmas in Nerja: lights, nativity scenes and a Christmas market. New Year’s Eve at the Balcón de Europa. Visit the Cave, see Frigiliana decorated, go hiking and enjoy seasonal food.
What to pack
- ✓A light winter jacket
- ✓Layers
- ✓Comfortable shoes
- ✓An umbrella
Festivals and events in December
Christmas and New Year in Nerja
Nerja celebrates Christmas with festive lighting, the municipal nativity scene, concerts, Christmas markets, New Year’s Eve at the Balcón de Europa and the Three Kings Parade.
Las Protegidas Living Nativity
On a Sunday before Christmas, more than a hundred local people turn Plaza de Andalucía in Las Protegidas into a living nativity scene. A Provincial Fiesta of Tourist Singularity. Free.
Things to do in Nerja in December
Recommended hiking trails
Maro Cliffs: Walk to the Torre de Maro
Easy · 4.6 km
Walking from Nerja to Frigiliana
Moderate · 7.6 km
El Almendrón Hike from the Fuente del Esparto
Hard · 11.3 km
El Pinarillo Walk from the Nerja Caves
Easy · 9.4 km
El Saltillo Suspension Bridge from Canillas de Aceituno
Moderate · 6.4 km
Fuente del Esparto Walk from the Nerja Caves
Moderate · 11.5 km
Frequently asked questions
How is New Year’s Eve celebrated in Nerja?
New Year’s Eve in Nerja is celebrated at the Balcón de Europa with the midnight chimes, live music and fireworks over the sea. It is a large, free celebration.
Is it cold in Nerja in December?
Winter in Nerja is mild: highs of 17°C and lows of 9°C, much warmer than inland Spain.
Is Nerja worth visiting at Christmas?
Yes. The Andalusian Christmas atmosphere is charming, prices are low and there are plenty of cultural and food activities to enjoy.