Mallorca Weather in December: Temperatures, Activities & Travel Tips

Christmas under palm trees — on Mallorca, this is not fantasy but lived reality. December brings a mild 16°C daytime temperature, 5 hours of sunshine and a festive atmosphere that differs markedly from the British Christmas tradition. Whilst snow falls across Northern Europe, bougainvillea and hibiscus still bloom in Palma's parks. December on Mallorca is not a beach month, but it is a wonderfully relaxed winter month with a character all its own — ideal for anyone who wants to escape the frenzy of high season and discover the island at its most authentic and atmospheric.

Temperatures & Climate Data in December

Sixteen degrees by day means jacket weather, and that is exactly what it is. In the sunshine, sheltered spots can feel noticeably warmer, but December on Mallorca is unambiguously winter. The nights drop to 8°C, and in the Tramuntana mountains, 3-4°C is not unusual. On the Puig Major, Mallorca's highest peak, it can even snow in December — a rare but spectacular sight that astonishes even long-term residents and sends locals reaching for their cameras.

The sea cools to 15°C and is too cold for all but the hardiest swimmers. A handful of locals maintain their morning swim at Cala Major beach regardless — a tradition one can respectfully observe from the promenade with a warm coffee in hand. Our water temperature overview makes clear that December sits firmly in the off-season for bathing.

In the European context, Mallorca still beats most competitors in December: the Canaries are warmer at 21°C but considerably further away. In the western Mediterranean, Mallorca's 16°C sits level with Nice and just below the Turkish south coast (18°C). The advantage of Mallorca is the short flight time — just over two hours from most UK airports.

What to Do in Mallorca in December

Christmas Markets and Festive Lights: From late November, Palma glows with festive illumination. The Christmas market on Placa Major offers handicrafts, turrones and hot chocolate. In the old town around Passeig des Born, fairy lights glitter in the trees, and the ice rink in front of the Cathedral La Seu is a popular gathering point for families. Smaller towns like Soller, Arta and Manacor also host atmospheric Advent markets with a distinctly local flavour — far removed from the commercialised affairs you might find elsewhere.

Hiking in Winter Solitude: The Serra de Tramuntana is virtually deserted in December. Those who seek mountain solitude will find it now: the route from Lluc to the Torrent de Pareis offers dramatic landscapes of towering limestone gorges, and the ascent to Castell d'Alaro rewards with crystal-clear views that can stretch as far as Menorca. The cool temperatures make even strenuous climbs comfortable, and the winter light on the stone-walled terraces is hauntingly beautiful.

Culinary Traditions: December is the season for Mallorcan winter cuisine: sopas mallorquinas (hearty bread soup), tumbet (layered vegetable bake) and lechona (suckling pig) feature on menus across the island. Visit the Mercat de l'Olivar in Palma for fresh ingredients, or treat yourself to a Christmas menu at one of the island's fine-dining restaurants — several Michelin-starred establishments offer special December tasting menus at prices that would be unthinkable in summer.

New Year's Eve on Mallorca: Noche de San Silvestre is celebrated with gusto in Palma. On the Placa de Cort, locals and visitors gather to eat 12 grapes at midnight — one for each chime of the bell, each bringing luck for a month of the coming year. The city then celebrates into the small hours, with bars and restaurants hosting parties across the old town and Santa Catalina neighbourhoods.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Mallorca?

For winter escapees who do not expect the tropics, December is surprisingly attractive. Prices for flights and hotels are at their annual low (with the exception of Christmas and New Year's Eve week), and Palma presents its most elegant face. The city is large enough to offer a varied programme of culture, shopping and gastronomy even in the depths of winter.

The limitations must be accepted, however: many coastal hotels are closed for the season, beach activities are off the table entirely, and with 7 rainy days, December is one of Mallorca's wettest months. The rainfall can be intense — Mediterranean winter storms occasionally deliver 30-40 litres per square metre in a single day, turning the normally dry torrents into rushing rivers.

December works best for city-break visitors who want to explore Palma, for hikers undaunted by the cold, and for food lovers keen to discover Mallorcan winter cuisine. Families will find a special experience during Christmas week, but should book early — the handful of hotels that remain open fill quickly. Anyone arriving expecting beach weather will be disappointed, but those who come with the right expectations will discover a Mallorca of rare charm and quiet beauty.

Packing Tips for Mallorca in December

Warm clothing is a must in December: a padded winter jacket, jumpers and long trousers belong in the suitcase. For walks in the Tramuntana, gloves and a hat are recommended — the wind chill on the peaks can be biting. Waterproof shoes are indispensable given the 7 rainy days. An umbrella belongs in your bag, as do sunglasses — the winter sun sits low and the glare off the sea can be surprisingly fierce. Suncream you can safely leave at home.

Plan your trip with our current weather forecast and compare all months in the Mallorca climate table.