As Christmas approaches, many people are looking for destinations that offer a special atmosphere for the season. Although European countries are usually the reference, there are locations in Spain that show similar scenarios. These towns combine their heritage with Christmas activities and decorations, creating spaces that are accessible to visitors.
In different parts of the country, cities take advantage of their architectural characteristics to create avenues that integrate streets, squares and historic buildings. The Christmas program includes illumination, nativity fairs, craft markets and cultural activities for all ages, organized by the municipalities responsible for lighting, markets and cultural events, ensuring accessible tours through the historical centres.
In addition to heritage and programming, the geographic location of these sites affects the experience they provide. Some are located in mountainous regions and incorporate snow and natural scenery as part of the celebration, while coastal regions combine Christmas traditions with their marine environment. This diversity allows visitors to choose destinations according to their preferences, without having to travel outside the country to find scenarios similar to those associated with a European Christmas.
Sanabria (Zamora, Castile and Leon)
Puebla de Sanabria is located in the province of Zamora and maintains a historic medieval center with cobblestone streets and a castle dominating the city. During Christmas, the municipality installs lighting in the main squares and streets, creating accessible routes for those visiting the city in December. In addition to lighting, craft markets and spaces for temporary cultural activities have been created.
The lake near the municipality provides a natural environment that complements the visit, and tours allow access to historical points such as the Church of Santa Maria de Azogo or the castle itself. The collection of lighting, cultural spaces and architectural heritage is coordinated so that visitors can organize their visit around the lighting times and cultural programs offered by the municipality.
La Alberca (Salamanca, Castile and Leon)
La Alberca is located in the Sierra de Francia, an urban area declared an Artistic Historic Site, characterized by its traditional stone and wooden buildings. During this time, the municipality offers illuminated tours and cultural activities, including “living nativity scenes” and craft fairs. These activities take place in the main square and in the surrounding streets, providing an itinerary that combines heritage and temporary seasonal programmes.
Albaracin (Teruel, Aragon)
Albarracin is located in the province of Teruel and has a historic center declared a historic site, characterized by narrow streets, stone houses and medieval walls. During the Christmas season, the municipality organizes cultural activities and events that are held in public places in the Old City, and lighting is installed to accompany visitors’ tours.
Visitors can wander the historic streets and squares while participating in temporary activities organized by the city. The programming is coordinated in advance and is maintained during the main days of the season, combining the architectural heritage and the celebration of Christmas without changing the urban structure of the municipality.
Peñiscola (Castellón, Valencian Community)
Located on the coast of Castellón, Peñiscola has an ancient city and a Templar castle located on a promontory. During Christmas, the municipality organizes markets and cultural activities in the streets and squares of the historic center, as well as workshops and events open to the public.
The city’s coastal location allows you to combine an urban heritage tour with seasonal programming. The Old Town streets and public spaces are used for Christmas activities planned by the municipality, without modifying the historical structure of the city.