The weather in January in Granada, Spain can be quite cold. However, the days of January can also be quite sunny and bright in this trendy Spanish town. Additionally, as the month progresses, the daily temperatures begin to rise, so that the end of the month is warmer than the start.
As to be expected, this warming trend continues through the months of February, March and the rest of spring. Therefore, while January is often considered the heart of winter in Granada, it also marks the shift from progressively colder weather to progressively warmer weather. The average temperature for the month is 6°C (43°F).
The average low temperature for the month is 1°C (34°F) in January. While the average low is still above freezing, certain days will drop below this average, and it is possible that it will snow in Granada in January.
Likewise, the average high temperature for the month means that other days are pleasant and sunny enough to wear a light jacket. Due to its location, Granada is lucky enough to have a number of sunny days each month of the year. Even in January, the sun can be particularly warm in this Spanish city. The average high temperature for the month of January is 11°C (52°F).
Throughout the month, Granada receives comparatively little precipitation. Like most cities in Spain, Granada tends to be cool and dry or hot and dry during the summer. Throughout the month of January, Granada receives an average of 53 mm of precipitation, some of which may be sleet, or even snow.
With only 8 days of rain, on average, throughout the month, it is likely that visitors at this time of year can escape cloudy and snowy parts of Europe for some winter sun in this city in the heart of Spain.
The days are short with only 5 hours of sunlight per day. However, as with the temperature the days are now becoming longer as the month progresses towards February.
Due to the crisper days of January, guests should expect to spend more time at their hotel than they would on a visit in warmer months. Therefore, comfort is essential, and friendly service required, but bright and interesting accommodation can also lift the winter spirits.
From the charming white and red exterior, to the homey and soothing warm colors of the hallways and guest rooms, Hotel Palacio de Santa Ines is a good choice at any time of year. The hotel is located in a converted and renovated 16th century home, and from the start the staff and ambiance make guests feel as if it is their own. Antique furniture pieces add character, and views of the Alhambra from some of the 35 guest rooms, surprise and delight guests lucky enough to have those rooms.
For a hotel that is both romantic and full of light, even in January, those on holiday should consider El Ladron de Agua. The experience at this boutique hotel begins with the impressive, enclosed courtyard covered in artwork and soft light for viewing. Then wows with charming guest rooms featuring dark, wooden ceilings and lots of windows. The hotel's name is inspired by a poem by Spanish poet, Juan Ramon Jimenez, whose poetry collection is on display in the El Ladron de Agua's library. Intended to be a showcase of local and regional art, the design of this hotel is a work of art in itself.
Similarly, the Fontecruz Granada is located within a gorgeous building. However, unlike the classical romance of El Ladron de Agua, the décor within Fontecruz Granada is contemporary and trendy. The highlight of this hotel during a winter month like January is the enclosed lounge and restaurant offering stunning views of the city and Sierra Nevada Mountains in the distance. While most hotels in Granada proudly feature open courtyards and terraces, at Fontecruz Granada the cold is kept at bay, but the view is just as incredible. Not to be outdone however, Fontecruz Granada also has a rooftop terrace for warmer days. The hotel also has an onsite spa, perfect for a relaxing morning or afternoon without leaving the comfort of the hotel.
Across Granada, the bars and restaurants maintain the tradition of providing a free tapa with each drink ordered by customers. Even when not free, the delectable, small-plates are often reasonable in price, if not downright cheap. Today, there are trendy tapas, unique tapas, but for most visitors it is a traditional experience they are after.
At Bodegas Espadafor, it is all about tradition. The tapas bar was opened in 1910, and is still operated by the same family today. That fact alone means a lot of pride and tradition is packed into this small spot. Accompanying the traditional Spanish tapas are the interesting murals feria posters on the walls and a friendly atmosphere.
Ruta del Azafrán is an unassuming restaurant on the outside, and full of friendly service and a bit of class on the inside. The restaurant also surprises with gorgeous views of the Alhambra. The food is delicious and the overall ambiance can be quite romantic. It is recommended to make a reservation and go for a late dinner to enjoy the Alhambra all lit up in spectacular glory.
There are many sites that highlight the Arab history and influences in Granada; as the most visited tourist site in Spain, the Alhambra is the obvious place to visit, However, there are small relics and reminders of the Muslim influence across the city. The Bañuelo Arab Baths are a great place to visit for those guests hoping to gain more insight into this fascinating part of Granada's past.
Once an important part of the culture and society of the Muslim population in Granada, today the Bañuelo Arab Baths are a well preserved, free entry museum. As one of the few structures not destroyed by the conquering Christian's in 1492, the Bañuelo Arab Baths show the skill and ingenuity of design from this period of time in Granada.
From November until roughly April it is ski season in the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Located less than 40 kilometers from Granada, the snowy mountains offer a wonderful way to escape the city streets for a day or longer. The Sierra Nevada Ski Station is a ski resort located roughly 32 kilometers from Granada, and is the perfect place to hit the slopes or even take lessons. One-day passes should be around 46 Euros, and there are discounts for seniors and youths.
On the 5th of January the Three Wise Men Parade takes place on the streets of Granada. An extension of Granada's gigantic Christmas celebration, the procession is held in the evening and is quite impressive. Over thirty decorated carriages and thousands of people join in, and spectators of all ages watch from the sidewalks.
