In December, the Costa del Sol offers the perfect blend of Christmas atmosphere, mild weather, and activities for the whole family. While the cold limits what you can do in other places, here you can enjoy the month surrounded by festive lights, beaches, great food, and entertainment for all ages. That’s why more and more visitors choose to spend Christmas in this area… and many discover that it’s an ideal place to rent, invest, or even live all year round.
Here are the best plans to enjoy December on the Costa del Sol:
1. Christmas Lights in Málaga on November 28th
This 2025, Christmas in Málaga arrives with exciting new features, most notably the renewed lighting display on Calle Larios after three years, which will be called “Nativity of Light.” A new videomapping show will also debut on the Cathedral, titled “The Dream Fisherman.” Added to this is extensive Christmas décor that will cover the entire city centre, several iconic spots, and different districts, illuminating nearly 500 streets throughout Málaga.
The celebrations will begin at the end of the month: the official switch-on of the lights will take place on Friday the 28th, while the videomapping show will premiere the following day, on Saturday.
General lighting schedule: The Christmas lights will be switched on Friday, November 28th, and will remain on until January 5th (except on January 24th and 31st).
Calle Larios light show schedule: There are three daily shows: at 6:30 p.m., 8:30 p.m., and 10:00 p.m.
2. Beach Walks and Golden Sunsets
The beach on the Costa del Sol offers a special kind of tranquility. Walks along the shore are enjoyed under the gentle winter sun, while children play in the sand as if it were summertime. The sunsets paint the sky in shades of pink and gold, creating the perfect setting for family photos. The afternoons are pleasant, calm, and full of light, turning every stroll into a unique moment. An experience that invites you to return… and to dream of living close to the sea.
3. Málaga’s Christmas Markets
Shopping at the Christmas markets is one of the best things to do in Málaga, as you wander through its streets and learn more about its history and culture. Below is a small list of the most traditional and popular markets in the city.
Christmas Market at Muelle Uno
Málaga’s Muelle Uno is a space frequently used for fairs and local events, and Christmas time is no exception. In this spot —which offers wonderful views of the Mediterranean Sea— the city’s largest Christmas market takes place.This year, the market is reinventing itself, transforming into a picturesque village inspired by Colmar (Alsace), with wooden stalls, warm lighting, and an aesthetic reminiscent of the most charming European Christmas markets.
Strolling through the Muelle Uno Christmas Market feels like stepping into a storybook: you’ll find stalls offering fashion, crafts, Christmas decorations, toys, gifts, and gastronomic delights that include sweets, snacks, and traditional seasonal flavours. All of this is accompanied by the sea and the unmatched atmosphere of Muelle Uno, one of the most magical places to enjoy Christmas in Málaga.
Location: Christmas Market at Muelle Uno – Port of Málaga
Dates: November 28th, 2025 to January 11th, 2026
Opening Hours: Open to the public from Monday to Sunday, from 10:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Christmas Market in Fuengirola
The magic of Christmas can once again be felt in Fuengirola, and this year Plaza de la Constitución will once again become the festive heart of the city. Its streets will be filled with lights, Christmas aromas, and an atmosphere that invites you to stroll and enjoy.
Fuengirola’s Christmas Market will return with 17 charming wooden cabins, where local shops and artisans will showcase their best creations. It’s the perfect place to discover unique gifts, support local talent, and enjoy an authentic Christmas experience
The Christmas Market will open its doors on November 27th and, as in previous years, will offer a complementary programme of activities for families to enjoy. Among the scheduled events, the popular artificial snowfall stands out—it will take place every Saturday, filling Plaza de la Constitución with festive spirit and a sense of wonder.
Location: Plaza de la Constitución, Fuengirola
Dates: From November 27th to December 21st
Opening Hours: From 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
“The Elf Factory” Christmas Market
Marbella’s Avenida del Mar will be transformed this Christmas into “The Elf Factory,” a charming Christmas market that will be open from November 28th to January 5th.
Inspired by the world of elves, this market will bring together artisans and local businesses offering unique gifts, crafts, festive décor, and gourmet products, creating an ideal atmosphere to enjoy with family and friends in the heart of Marbella.
The walkway will be illuminated with lights, trees, and traditional ornaments, bringing to life a magical setting that invites visitors to stroll, enjoy, and support local commerce—all in a privileged location by the sea.
Location: Avenida del Mar, Marbella
Date: 28 November 2025 to 5 January 2026
Schedule: From 12:00 to 20:00 hrs.
4. Visit the Christmas Village in Puerto Banús
Visiting the Christmas Village is one of the most special activities to enjoy during the holiday season in Marbella, especially for children, who will have the chance to meet the beloved Santa Claus in person. In addition, kids can take part in different workshops available both in the morning and in the afternoon.
The village is set beneath a large Christmas tree, creating a magical atmosphere. Around it, various stalls offer a tempting selection of gourmet products—caviar, cava, freshly made churros, and many other delights—making this spot the perfect place to embrace the Christmas spirit.
Location: Plaza Antonio Banderas, in the shopping area of Puerto Banús, near El Corte Inglés.
Dates: From December 1st, 2025 to January 6th, 2026.
General Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Sundays: 12:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Special Hours: December 24th and 31st, and January 5th: 12:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Closed Days: December 25th and January 1st.
5. The Best Time to Experience the Hammams
December is the perfect time to discover Málaga’s hammams—an ideal plan to disconnect from the tourist pace and immerse yourself in complete well-being. With the cooler winter weather, nothing feels better than stepping into a warm atmosphere of steam baths, heated pools, and Arabian scents that evoke the city’s Moorish heritage.
The experience includes exfoliating massages, moments of deep relaxation in the thermal baths, and the traditional mint tea ritual, which completes this sensory escape. It’s a unique way to experience Málaga from a different perspective, connecting with its Andalusian roots while enjoying a moment of absolute tranquility.
Hammam Al Ándalus Málaga
This hammam recreates the Nasrid tradition with five thermal baths at different temperatures, a steam room, hot stone areas, a tea corner, and an aromatherapy corridor. It’s the perfect place for a deeply relaxing experience right in the heart of Málaga’s historic centre.
Location: Plaza de los Mártires 5, 29008 Málaga
Opening Hours: Open every day from 10:00 a.m.
Milenium Wellness & Spa
A premium wellness sanctuary on the Costa del Sol offering traditional Arabian hammam treatments combined with Balinese massages, hot stones, and couples’ rituals. A luxurious atmosphere and personalized care make it the perfect setting for a memorable, relaxing escape.
Location: Avenida Condes de San Isidro 2, 29640 Fuengirola, Málaga.
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., Sundays from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
Hammam El Pacha
An exclusive space in Marbella offering everything from the traditional hammam to “Imperial” and “Royal” treatments. With high-end products (Argalista, Biologique Recherche) and a luxurious wellness setting, it provides a truly special experience.
Location: Avda. Juan Vargas, Urb. Nueva Alcántara, 29670 San Pedro de Alcántara (Marbella)
Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday: 10:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. for women, 6:00 p.m.–11:00 p.m. for men. Closed on Sundays.
6. Culture, Museums, and Traditions
In December, the Costa del Sol comes alive with culture and tradition. Museums such as the Picasso, the Pompidou, and the Russian Museum offer perfect plans for families to enjoy, while the traditional Nativity scenes in Málaga, Marbella, and Estepona add that festive touch that delights both children and adults.
The squares fill with concerts, choirs, and activities that turn every stroll into a magical experience. A Christmas where art and tradition are enjoyed outdoors, wrapped in the unique charm of the Mediterranean.
Picasso Museum
The Picasso Museum Málaga, located in the heart of the historic centre, celebrates the life and work of Pablo Picasso in his hometown. It houses more than 200 pieces that showcase his artistic evolution, from his early beginnings to his most innovative periods. Set within the Renaissance-style Buenavista Palace, it brings together art, history, and architecture in one essential cultural space.
Location: Buenavista Palace, Calle San Agustín 8, 29015 Málaga, Spain
Opening Hours for December (November–February season): 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
December 24th, December 31st, and January 5th: Open from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
Closed: December 25th, January 1st, and January 6th.
Pompidou Centre
The Centre Pompidou Málaga, located in the colourful Cube at Muelle Uno, offers a vibrant immersion into modern and contemporary art. Its iconic multicoloured structure houses standout works from the Pompidou collection in Paris, combining permanent and temporary exhibitions. It’s a dynamic, innovative, and accessible cultural space right on the Málaga waterfront.
Location: Centre Pompidou Málaga, Pasaje Dr. Carrillo Casaux s/n, 29016 Málaga (Muelle Uno, Port of Málaga)
Opening Hours for December:
Monday, Wednesday to Sunday: 9:30 a.m.–8:00 p.m.
Tuesday: Closed.
December 24th and 31st: Open until 3:00 p.m. (last admission at 2:30 p.m.)
December 25th and January 1st: Closed.
Russian Museum
The Russian Museum in Málaga, housed in the former Tabacalera building, offers a unique look into Russian art and culture through both annual and temporary exhibitions. Its collection ranges from traditional icons to avant-garde works and Soviet realism. The spacious, restored industrial building provides a stunning setting in which to explore centuries of Russian artistic history.
Location: Russian Museum Collection of Málaga – Av. Sor Teresa Prat 15, 29003 Málaga, Spain.
Opening Hours for December:
Monday: Closed.
Tuesday to Sunday: 9:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
December: 25th and January 1st: Closed.
December 24th and 31st: Open until 3:00 p.m. (last admission around 2:30 p.m.).
A Christmas Eve That Creates Memories for a Lifetime
December 24th is one of the most special nights of the year. For many families, it is a moment of reunion, joy, and cherished traditions. But on the Costa del Sol, this night takes on a unique charm: the mild weather, the Mediterranean light, family strolls, and a festive atmosphere that blends tradition, happiness, and serenity.
Christmas Eve Dinners for Every Taste
The Costa del Sol offers a perfect gastronomic setting for families:
Restaurants with special menus for children
Heated terraces for outdoor dining
Lighter, healthier Mediterranean options
Calm, welcoming spaces perfect for enjoying with family or friends
If the family prefers to dine “at home,” rental villas and apartments offer the perfect setting for an intimate Christmas Eve, with spacious interiors, terraces, and fully equipped kitchens.
The Costa del Sol, the Best Christmas Gift for Your Family
Spending Christmas Eve here means experiencing a different kind of December 24th: warm, joyful, and full of shared moments. And for those looking for a place to bring the family together more often—during holidays, long weekends, summer breaks, or even for a future move—the Costa del Sol becomes an ideal location to rent or invest in a property.
Because in the end, the true magic of Christmas isn’t found in the gifts…
it’s found in choosing the place where your family can be happiest.
And if you’re thinking about renting or investing… December is the perfect month to do it.
If you’re thinking about renting or investing, December is the perfect month to take the step… and at Costa del Sol Property, together with our partner Costa del Sol Vacation, we’re here to guide you. The Costa del Sol shines at this time of year: sunny days, peaceful neighbourhoods, fewer crowds, serene beaches, and a lifestyle that captivates from the very first moment. It’s the ideal setting to visit properties, discover opportunities, and envision your future investment.
With Costa del Sol Property, you’ll be able to visit bright, sun-filled apartments, villas with sea views, and homes designed to offer maximum comfort and strong rental potential. The demand for holiday rentals and mid-term stays continues to grow, making this region one of the strongest and most attractive places to invest in Spain.
December invites smart decisions. Let us show you why so many clients trust us to find the perfect property on the Costa del Sol.
With Costa del Sol Property, your investment becomes quality of life… and your future turns into a real opportunity. Ready to take the next step? We’re here to help you.