Things to Do in Palmademallorca in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Palmademallorca
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect hiking weather - cool 11-20°C (52-68°F) temperatures ideal for exploring Tramuntana mountains without summer's scorching heat
- Dramatically fewer crowds - major attractions like Valldemossa and Deià have 70% fewer visitors than peak summer months
- Hotel rates drop 40-60% from summer peaks, with luxury properties offering winter packages typically €80-150 vs €200-400 in July
- Authentic local atmosphere returns - restaurants serve seasonal specialties like tumbet and sobrassada, Christmas markets appear in Palma's squares
Considerations
- Many beach clubs and coastal restaurants close entirely - expect 60% of seaside dining options shuttered until March
- Daylight limited to 9.5 hours (8:15am-5:45pm sunset) restricts sightseeing time compared to summer's 15-hour days
- Sea temperature drops to 16°C (61°F) making swimming uncomfortable without wetsuits - most locals avoid beach activities completely
Best Activities in December
Tramuntana Mountain Hiking Routes
December's cool temperatures (11-20°C/52-68°F) make this the absolute best time for serious hiking. The GR221 long-distance trail and day hikes around Valldemossa are comfortable without summer's brutal heat. Expect crystal-clear mountain views and no crowds on weekdays. Local hiking groups are most active now as this is their preferred season.
Palma Cultural Walking Tours
Cool December weather makes exploring Palma's old town genuinely pleasant - no sweating through Gothic Quarter cobblestones or cathedral visits. Christmas decorations add festive atmosphere to historic sites. Locals are out enjoying the mild weather, creating authentic street life rather than tourist-heavy summer scenes.
Traditional Finca and Winery Visits
December is harvest completion season - wineries offer special tours showing finished production processes. Cooler weather makes cycling between rural fincas comfortable, and indoor wine cellars provide cozy atmospheres. Many properties offer winter-specific experiences like olive oil pressing demonstrations unavailable in summer.
Soller Valley Train and Village Exploration
The historic Palma-Soller railway is spectacular in December with clear mountain views and comfortable temperatures for the open-air vintage train cars. Orange trees are heavy with fruit, and the valley's hiking trails are perfect in cool weather. Villages like Fornalutx maintain authentic winter rhythms without summer tourist crowds.
Artisan Workshop and Market Tours
December brings Christmas markets to Palma's squares, plus year-round artisan workshops are more accessible when not competing with beach activities. Traditional craft demonstrations (glass blowing, leather work, pearl cultivation) operate comfortable indoor spaces. Local food markets like Mercat de l'Olivar showcase winter seasonal ingredients.
Interior Village Cycling Routes
Cool December temperatures (11-20°C/52-68°F) create ideal cycling conditions for exploring inland villages like Sineu, Petra, and Santa Margalida. Summer's oppressive heat makes these routes unbearable, but December offers comfortable pedaling through almond groves and traditional stone villages without tourist crowds.
December Events & Festivals
Palma Christmas Markets
Traditional German-style Christmas markets appear in Plaza Major and Plaza España, featuring local artisan crafts, seasonal foods like turron and ensaimadas, and mulled wine. Genuine local atmosphere as Palmesanos do their holiday shopping alongside visitors.
Festa de l'Estendard
December 31st celebrates Palma's reconquest from the Moors with historical reenactments, traditional music, and processions through the old town. One of Mallorca's most authentic cultural celebrations with minimal tourist focus.