For those who haven’t mapped out a getaway yet and are wondering where a weekend escape could lead, or anyone hunting for a last minute Christmas break, here are some ideas for Christmas travel. These destinations suit every traveler, whether nearby or far away, and fit a range of budgets.
Relaxing days at Rocallaura spa
Situated between Lleida and Tarragona, in the heart of the Tallat Range and along the Cistercian Route, Rocallaura (Urgell) is a tiny town with about 70 residents inviting visitors to wander its forests and meadows. A stroll or a bike ride is easy here. The Iberik Rocallaura Balneari offers plenty of ways to unwind after activity, with a history spanning more than a century. The modern hotel blends tradition with contemporary comfort, featuring a broad menu of massages and treatments, a thermal circuit with an active pool, contrast showers, saunas, bubble and hydromassage tubs, and cabins using varied techniques. In many pools, the water is sourced locally. More information about the spa and services can be found through official channels.
Getting lost in the call of Girona
Girona is always worth a visit, and during the lead-up to Christmas the city takes on a special glow. If you can time your trip with the Fira d’Alimentació Artesana, which lights up the streets on the 6th, the experience becomes even richer. Lose yourself in the alleyways of the Jewish Quarter, browse discreet local shops, and savor a gastronomy that has earned multiple awards. Visitors can pick from a variety of accommodations reachable by train, and those who stay through Sunday may join a guided tour if they wish. The Santa Caterina Hospital complex, with its 18th century hospital pharmacy and chapel featuring the work of Ramon Martí i Alsina, is a city heritage highlight. For more on Girona’s tourism calendar, consult official city resources.
Artichokes and food trucks at the Sant Boi de Llobregat fair
From Wednesday onward, Sant Boi de Llobregat hosts its traditional Fira de la Puríssima, a market you won’t want to miss. The central Rambla de Rafael Casanova fills with plants for gardening enthusiasts, and the Town Hall square hosts a Christmas market. A new sustainable mobility brand will be announced, and the municipal exhibition will spotlight the Torre de la Vila environmental park project. Food trucks set up in the Mercadal, a family area occupies the Plaza de la Agricultura, and a Young Art Market appears at the Jordi Rubió i Balaguer library. The full event schedule is available from local authorities.
Discounted river cruise in Andalusia
Anyone seeking to depart Catalonia for Andalusia during the December long weekend can expect a journey rich in tradition, history, and flavor. A five-day Guadalquivir river cruise visits Seville, Cádiz, and Puerto de Santa María, with full-board accommodation, wines at meals and aboard, French cuisine, a gala night, a welcome cocktail, and onboard entertainment. Two departures are offered in December, with discounted pricing for children up to 12. Details are published by the cruise line and partner tour operators.
Four days of history and wines in Ribera del Duero
From Peñafiel to Covarrubias, the Ribera del Duero region presents a sweeping panorama of castles, grand churches, museums, and rolling vineyards. A four-day itinerary links Valladolid, El Burgo de Osma, San Esteban de Gormaz, Aranda de Duero, and Lerma. Along the way, visitors can savor renowned wines and pause to explore medieval stories connected to the old Wool Route that once fueled wealth in the Kingdom of Castile. Budget-friendly options include guided visits to the Ribera del Duero Wine Museum with tastings. A more upscale experience can be found at the Arzuaga Hotel, adjacent to its namesake winery.
The middle of Europe is full of Christmas markets
From Riga to Vienna, Prague, and Paris, Central Europe overflows with Christmas markets. Visitors can browse decorations, crafts, sweets, and clothing, and of course sip traditional mulled wine spiced with cinnamon. Vienna’s historic Christkindlmarkt and Freyung Square Dickens market are among Europe’s most famed, while Edinburgh and London host notable seasonal scenes. There are many options to choose from, and each offers a distinctive holiday mood.
The beauties of Cappadocia, Türkiye
If a trip outside Spain is on the cards, Map Tours has crafted an appealing program for a long weekend with diverse destinations. Departures from several Spanish cities let travelers select from multiple offers such as major European capitals, Jordan, and Turkey. The Beauties of Cappadocia tour blends natural wonder with human artistry, and includes visits to Ankara and Istanbul. Departures are set from Barcelona, Madrid, Malaga, and Valencia on December 3, with the eight-day circuit starting at 879 euros per person. Information is available through Map Tours’ official resources.
Exotic islands of Cape Verde
Cape Verde, though compact, hosts a rich array of landscapes from volcanic peaks to desert sands and lush valleys. It is a paradise for windsurfers and kiters thanks to golden beaches and dependable winds. Sal is the best-known island, with Mindelo and Sao Vicente offering vibrant nightlife and diverse vibes, while Fogo invites visitors to explore dramatic lava fields and volcanic scenery. Portugal Tours offers getaways from major Iberian cities during the December long weekend, with departures on December 2 and return on December 10. Full offer details appear through official tour operator pages.