Spain is the ideal destination for enjoying the winter season. With its mild climate, rich culture, and welcoming lifestyle, Spain offers the perfect setting for a long, relaxing winter escape.

Spanish people are warm, friendly, and welcoming. Canadian snowbirds will feel right at home thanks to the hospitality, community spirit, and social lifestyle found across Spain.

There is a wide variety of cities to choose from: whether you’re looking for the vibrant urban life or  the charm of small coastal towns, or peaceful rural villages, Spain has a perfect match for every taste.

Spain offers many flexible and comfortable long-stay accommodations: From modern apartments to cozy countryside houses, Spain offers excellent options for long-term stays — often at very affordable prices compared to Canada. Also, Spain has a wide selection of hotels and resorts,  including the special “Paradores” – historic castles and palaces around Spain that have been converted to beautiful hotels

Snowbirds will find mild winter weather in several regions -- Spain boasts a variety of climates: from the eternal spring of the Canary Islands, to the sunny shores of Valencia, Murcia, and Andalusia, snowbirds can  enjoy sunshine and mild temperatures all winter long.

Spanish cuisine is a delight — fresh, diverse, and rooted in tradition. You’ll find excellent food everywhere, from small village “bares” to top city restaurants( Spain boasts a total of 291 Michelin-starred restaurants. Local produce  is of outstanding quality even during the winter months

Spain has a rich  cultural and historical heritage. Discover 15 UNESCO World Heritage cities and 55 sites ,world-class museums, traditional festivals, and architectural wonders throughout the country.

While Spanish is the official language, English is understood in major cities.

Spain is known for its safety, excellent healthcare system, and reliable public transportation, making it easy and secure to explore at your own pace.

Also, Spain is well adapted for persons with disabilities. You can find info about travel accessibility here.

Visa Requirements & Maximum Stays

Canadian citizens are not required to obtain a short-stay visa if the purpose of their visit to Spain is tourism or business and their stay does not exceed 90 days within any 180-day period.

For longer stays, contact the Spanish Embassy in Canada here.

Getting Here

There are direct flights from different cities. Currently Air Canada offers year-round daily flights from Montréal to both Madrid and Barcelona, while additional  routes from Canada are typically seasonal. Air Transat operates multiple seasonal routes from Toronto and Montréal to various Spanish cities, with frequencies varying throughout the season and has announced it will operate Montreal- Madrid from next February 2026.  WestJet also operates some seasonal routes.   

Please note flight routes and schedules can change frequently so always check with the airline’s website or your travel agent for the most up-to-date information.

You can also easily reach Spain by connecting through major European airports. Cities like London, Paris, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, and Lisbon offer frequent flights to Spanish destinations such as Madrid, Barcelona, Málaga, and Valencia. These hubs are well-connected and provide seamless transit options.

Weather

Spain offers an incredibly diverse climate, but these national monthly averages give a reliable picture of what you can expect in many popular regions, from the Mediterranean coast to the heart of the peninsula during the snowbird season

 The nice climate makes Spain one of the top destinations for long-term stays during the winter months --- especially in areas like Andalusia, the Costa Blanca, and the Canary Islands, where mild temperatures and abundant sun are the norm even in January and February. The average rate of sun hours in a year is 2.500. 

Region of Valencia

Canary Islands

Balearic Islands

Terrain and Landscape

Spain offers an extraordinary variety of natural environments that make it the perfect destination for snowbirds looking for more than just good weather. From the golden sands of the Mediterranean to snow-capped peaks and lush green valleys, here’s what you can expect: 

Beaches & Coastlines

Spain boasts over 5,000 kilometers of coastline with an abundance of stunning beaches:

• Mediterranean Coast: Calm waters, soft sand, and mild winter temperatures — especially popular in Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and Murcia.
• Atlantic Coast: Dramatic cliffs and wilder seas in Galicia and the Basque Country.
• Canary Islands: Volcanic black-sand beaches and year-round spring temperatures make these islands a favorite for winter stays.

Mountains & Countryside

• The Pyrenees in the north of Spain and the Sierra Nevada in Granada, Andalusia are perfect for snow-lovers who want scenic drives, crisp mountain air, and even winter sports.
• Interior Highlands: Rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards stretch across Castilla-La Mancha and Extremadura — a tranquil, traditional escape.

Deserts & Semi-Arid Landscapes

• The Tabernas Desert near Almeria is Europe’s only desert  and offers cinematic views and a unique experience 

Lakes & Rivers

Dozens of natural lakes and reservoirs, are ideal for peaceful strolls or birdwatching. The Ebro, Duero, and Guadalquivir rivers shape many of Spain’s lush valleys and historical cities, such as  Seville.

Volcanic Terrain

Striking volcanic terrain is particularly visible in the Canary Islands, such as Tenerife and Lanzarote, where the dramatic lava landscapes are unlike anything on the mainland.

Accommodations 

 Snowbirds can choose between elegant boutique hotels in the heart of cities, cozy rural houses in the countryside, or the Paradores, a network of historic buildings where you can spend the night in castles or palaces. Each option offers you a unique and authentic experience.

Spain has lots of choices for medium- and long-term rental accommodation. In coastal cities, it is easy to rent a studio or apartment for the winter season. 

You can find out more about accommodations in Spain here.

Wine and Cuisine in Spain

Spanish cuisine is famous the world over because it is fresh, healthy, traditional, creative and varied -- and also because of its popular restaurants and fine dining, as demonstrated by the international recognition of its chefs. An example of how healthy Spanish cuisine is can be seen in the famed Mediterranean diet.

Key ingredients include olive oil, Iberian ham –a source of national pride– seafood and  Spanish wines, the perfect accompaniment for toasting. Rioja produces the most famous Spanish wine, but you will discover other options around Spain.

Each of the 17 regions of Spain have their own typical regional dishes, making the country a culinary epicenter. Check out more about Spain's wine and cuisine here.

Getting Around Spain

Spain is a global leader in high-speed rail travel, boasting one of the most extensive and efficient high-speed train networks in the world. With over 3,700 kilometers of AVE --High Speed Trains-- lines connecting major cities like Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia, Málaga, and Zaragoza, traveling across the country is not only fast but incredibly comfortable. 

The network is primarily operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company, which offers AVE and AVLO (its low-cost high-speed service). In recent years, Spain has welcomed new operators like Ouigo España (a subsidiary of SNCF from France) and iryo, a consortium including Italy’s Trenitalia, which bring more competitive pricing and additional service options. These modern trains provide excellent onboard services, punctuality, and scenic routes, making train travel an ideal way to explore Spain with ease and style.

Car Rental

Some snowbirds will prefer to rent a car to explore the country during their stay. Renting a car is very easy in Spain. There are many car rental companies and it is easy to drive in Spain.

Check out how to travel through Spain here.

Valencia- Overview

Valencia is a wonderful city on the Mediterranean Sea. It is a vibrant and lively city that perfectly combines the tranquility of strolling along a seaside promenade with the adventure of discovering new places.

Valencia is the City of Arts and Sciences and is an architectural gem. The city was also the European green capital in 2024. 

Learn more about Valencia here.

Valencia - Things To Do

Valencia is a great city for foodies. Paella was born here, and its streets are full of bars, restaurants, and terraces, making every  day a culinary delight.

Sorolla, the painter of light, lived in Valencia and left behind a remarkable collection of his works here.

Valencia offers everything a great city can provide, all within an elegant setting.

In the surrounding areas, there are many towns by the beach and in the mountains that are well worth visiting — or even living in such as Denia, Javea or Gandía.

Learn about more things to do in Valencia here. 

Valencia – Experiences & Events

Valencia is famous for its vibrant festivals, and snowbirds will find plenty to enjoy during their winter stays. The Fallas Festival in March is an absolute must-see: giant artistic monuments are paraded and then spectacularly burned in massive bonfires, accompanied by music, fireworks, and parades. 

For a more traditional experience, the Festa de la Mare de Déu dels Desemparats in May offers a heartfelt display of devotion and colorful floral offerings in the city's historic center. 

Additionally, throughout the winter months, various Christmas markets, Three Kings parades, and Carnival festivities bring a festive atmosphere to the streets, perfect for those seeking cultural immersion and lively celebrations.

Cultural Activities

Valencia is a paradise for culture lovers. Snowbirds can spend their days exploring the iconic City of Arts and Sciences, a modern architectural marvel that hosts an interactive science museum, an aquarium, and the Palau de les Arts opera house. 

The city also boasts impressive historical sites like La Lonja de la Seda, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the imposing Valencia Cathedral, where you can climb the Miguelete tower for panoramic views. 

Art enthusiasts will appreciate the Museum of Fine Arts of Valencia, showcasing Spanish masters like Sorolla. For a leisurely afternoon, stroll through the colorful Ruzafa neighborhood, full of art galleries, boutique shops, and charming cafés.

Valencia offers an ideal climate for outdoor activities all year round, especially during the mild winter months that snowbirds will appreciate. The city's golden beaches, such as Playa de la Malvarrosa and Playa de las Arenas, are ideal  for peaceful walks along the seafront promenade or relaxing afternoons soaking up the Mediterranean sun. 

Nature lovers will enjoy exploring the nearby Albufera Natural Park, a beautiful freshwater lagoon surrounded by rice fields, perfect for birdwatching, boat rides, and breathtaking sunsets.

For more active days, there are extensive cycling and hiking routes through the Turia Gardens, a lush nine-kilometer park built on a former riverbed, leading all the way to the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences.

Golf enthusiasts will find excellent courses nearby, such as El Saler Golf Club, renowned for its stunning location between pine forests and the sea. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Valencia offers countless opportunities to enjoy the outdoors in a privileged environment.

Andalusia- Overview

Andalusia is the biggest region of Spain,  located in southern Spain.  Andalusia is comprised of  8 provinces and  is a very popular region for Snowbirds. 

Provinces like Malaga, Granada, Huelva, Cádiz  and Almeria feature the Costa del Sol coastline while  Sevilla, Cordoba and Jaén are inland cities.  There are also many beautiful villages in each region. In Cádiz and Málaga you can find the Whitewashed Villages of Andalusia, a peaceful escape for Snowbirds.. These sun-drenched towns, with their narrow cobblestone streets, brilliant white facades, and colorful flower pots, provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere even in the cooler months. Villages like Ronda, Frigiliana, and Vejer de la Frontera are perfect for slow-paced days spent exploring, enjoying scenic views, and relaxing at outdoor cafés. The mild winter weather and authentic local traditions make these villages an ideal retreat for those looking to experience the true soul of southern Spain.

Learn more about Andalusia here.

Andalusia – Things To Do

Attractions & Sights

Andalusia offers breathtaking landmarks across its provinces. Snowbirds can discover the stunning Alhambra Palace in Granada, the Mezquita-Catedral in Córdoba, and the historic Royal Alcazar in Seville. Charming coastal towns like Marbella and Nerja are not to be missed

Fitness & Outdoor Recreation

The region’s mild winters are ideal for outdoor activities. Snowbirds can enjoy hiking in Sierra Nevada, cycling through olive groves in Jaén, or walking along the beach promenades of the Costa del Sol. Many towns offer free or low-cost outdoor fitness programs, yoga sessions, and nature walks, making it easy to stay active in paradise.

Food & Dining

Andalusia is a gastronomic treasure. Snowbirds can indulge in tapas tours in Seville, sample fresh seafood along the coast, and taste authentic jamón ibérico in Huelva. Michelin-starred restaurants abound, but the casual tapas bars, bustling markets like Atarazanas Market in Málaga, and vibrant food festivals ensure delicious experiences for every budget.

Entertainment

Andalusia pulses with cultural life even in winter. Snowbirds can attend flamenco performances in Granada, open-air concerts in Seville, or traditional festivals like the Three Kings' parades in January. Theaters, cinemas, and music venues in larger cities host a variety of performances, from classical concerts to contemporary dance shows.

Shopping

From colorful markets to luxury boutiques, Andalusia offers excellent shopping options for Snowbirds.  Explore artisan shops for ceramics and leather goods, outdoor markets for local products, or shopping malls like Larios Centro in Málaga and Lagoh in Seville for modern retail therapy.

Sports

Andalusia is a golfer’s paradise with over 100 courses, including world-renowned clubs like Valderrama Golf Club in Cádiz. 

Snowbirds can also enjoy sailing, tennis, hiking, and even skiing at Sierra Nevada—one of Europe’s southernmost ski resorts, offering sunny slopes just two hours from the Mediterranean coast.

Lifelong Learning & Education

Andalusia offers countless opportunities: Spanish language schools, art workshops, flamenco dance classes, and history lectures at cultural centers. Many universities, like the University of Granada and University of Seville, offer extension programs and cultural activities open to international residents.

Andalusia– Experiences & Events

Andalusia comes alive with vibrant festivals all year round, offering snowbirds unforgettable cultural experiences even during the quieter winter months. 

From the colorful Three Kings' parades in January to lively Carnival celebrations in February, there is always something happening. Spring marks the beginning of spectacular events like Semana Santa (Holy Week) in Seville and Málaga, known worldwide for their magnificent processions. No matter the season, Andalusia’s passion for celebration brings warmth, joy, and community spirit to every town and city.

Cultural Activities

Snowbirds in Andalusia will find no shortage of enriching cultural activities. Explore world-class sites like the Alhambra in Granada, the Royal Alcázar in Seville, or the Mezquita-Catedral in Córdoba. Attend authentic flamenco performances, visit renowned art museums like the Picasso Museum in Málaga, or join Spanish language and cooking classes to dive deeper into the local culture. With its rich heritage, welcoming atmosphere, and lively arts scene, Andalusia offers countless ways for snowbirds to stay engaged, entertained, and inspired.

Murcia- Overview

Murcia is still not very well known, but it is a city with great potential for snowbirds. Its warm climate year-round (around 13 to 16ºC in winter) makes it ideal for spending long stays during the winter.  Murcia is a charming medium-sized city in southeastern Spain, offering everything needed for a comfortable and vibrant lifestyle. Known for its rich agricultural heritage, the city is surrounded by the fertile "huerta," providing an abundance of fresh fruits, vegetables, and world-class local produce.

 Life in Murcia is relaxed yet lively, with a strong emphasis on outdoor living, gastronomy, and community. Despite its manageable size, the city boasts a full range of services, cultural activities, and modern amenities. Murcia enjoys a privileged location just a short drive from beautiful Mediterranean beaches and picturesque nearby towns such as Cartagena, making it an ideal destination for those seeking both urban comforts and coastal escapes.

Learn more about Murcia here.

Murcia – Things To Do

Attractions & Sights

Murcia offers a captivating mix of historical and cultural attractions. The impressive Cathedral of Murcia, with its stunning Baroque façade, and the Royal Casino are must-visits in the city center. Nearby, the city’s many charming squares and narrow streets invite visitors to stroll and soak in the authentic Spanish atmosphere. A short drive away, the ancient Roman city of Cartagena and the scenic Sierra Espuña Natural Park provide even more  opportunities to explore the area

Fitness & Outdoor Recreation

With its year-round mild climate, Murcia is perfect for outdoor activities. Snowbirds can enjoy walking or cycling along the Segura River, hiking in the nearby mountains, or exploring coastal trails. Public parks and gardens like Floridablanca or Malecón offer beautiful spaces for daily exercise and relaxation.

Food & Dining

Murcia is celebrated for its fresh, flavorful cuisine, strongly influenced by its fertile agricultural surroundings. Local specialties include "zarangollo," "caldero" rice dishes, and delicious tapas made from seasonal vegetables. Traditional markets such as Verónicas Market and a wide range of restaurants provide endless options for dining out and experiencing authentic Mediterranean flavors.

Entertainment

Murcia has a lively cultural scene year-round, with theaters, concerts, and traditional festivals such as the Spring Festival and the Bando de la Huerta. For those who enjoy music and arts, the Teatro Romea and the Auditorio Víctor Villegas regularly host high-quality performances, ranging from opera to jazz.

Shopping

Shopping enthusiasts will find a mix of local artisan boutiques, modern shopping centers like Nueva Condomina, and charming weekly markets where they can buy everything from handcrafted goods to organic produce. Murcia’s downtown area offers a pleasant pedestrian experience for browsing local shops and international brands alike.

Sports

Murcia offers excellent sports facilities, from golf courses like La Torre Golf Resort to tennis clubs and marinas for water sports along the nearby coast. Football fans can also attend local matches at the Enrique Roca Stadium, experiencing the region’s passion for the sport firsthand.

Lifelong Learning & Education

Snowbirds interested in continuing their education can find a variety of opportunities in Murcia. Spanish language schools, cultural workshops, and programs at the University of Murcia offer courses ranging from art history to gastronomy. Many cultural centers also offer short-term classes and seminars aimed at foreign residents.

Murcia – Experiences & Events

Festivals & Events

Murcia is a vibrant city with a rich calendar of festivals and events that offer snowbirds a deep connection to local traditions and celebrations. One of the highlights is the Spring Festival (Fiestas de Primavera), held right after Easter, which fills the streets with parades, music, and colorful costumes. The Bando de la Huerta, part of the Spring Festival, is a unique day when residents dress in traditional attire and celebrate Murcia’s agricultural heritage with food, music, and dancing. 

Cultural Activities

Murcia’s cultural scene is lively and diverse, perfect for snowbirds looking to immerse themselves in Spanish life. The Teatro Romea and the Auditorio Víctor Villegas offer a year-round program of theater, classical music, ballet, and contemporary performances.

 Art lovers can explore exhibitions at the Museo de Bellas Artes or the Salzillo Museum, which showcases the famous Baroque sculptures of Francisco Salzillo. 

Traditional flamenco shows, often held in local peñas (clubs) and cultural centers, allow visitors to experience this passionate art form up close. Throughout the year, Murcia also hosts jazz festivals, open-air cinema series, and literary events, providing endless opportunities for cultural enrichment.
 

Balearic Islands - Overview

The Balearic Islands — Mallorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera — offer a unique Mediterranean escape that is ideal for Canadian snowbirds seeking mild winters, natural beauty, and rich culture. With winter temperatures ranging from 12°C to 18°C, the islands provide a warm and sunny alternative to Canada's harsh winters. 

Beyond the famous beaches, visitors will discover charming historic towns, UNESCO World Heritage sites like Ibiza’s Dalt Vila, and dramatic landscapes perfect for walking, cycling, and exploring at a relaxed pace. The islands are renowned for their high quality of life, vibrant local markets, excellent gastronomy, and welcoming atmosphere. 

Snowbirds can enjoy everything from cultural events and traditional festivals to world-class golf courses and wellness retreats. Easy inter-island travel and frequent flights to mainland Europe make the Balearics a perfect home base for broader adventures, while still offering a peaceful and authentic island lifestyle throughout the quieter winter months.

Learn more about the Balearic Islands here.

Balearic Islands – Things To Do

Attractions & Sights

The Balearic Islands are filled with cultural and natural treasures. You can explore  the stunning Gothic architecture of Palma Cathedral in Mallorca, the historic old town of Ciutadella in Menorca, or the UNESCO-listed Dalt Vila in Ibiza. Picturesque villages like Valldemossa and Deià offer charming day trips, while the islands' ancient talayotic ruins provide a glimpse into prehistoric times.

Fitness & Outdoor Recreation

Thanks to the mild climate, outdoor activities can be enjoyed all year round. The islands offer extensive coastal trails, scenic hiking routes through mountains like the Serra de Tramuntana, and peaceful countryside ideal for cycling. Yoga retreats, wellness centers, and coastal walks also make it easy to stay active while connecting with nature.

Food & Dining

The Balearic Islands boast a vibrant food scene rooted in Mediterranean tradition. Snowbirds can savor local specialties like "sobrasada," "ensaimadas," and freshly caught seafood. Markets like Mercat de l’Olivar in Palma or Mercat des Peix in Menorca are perfect for discovering local produce, while a range of beachfront restaurants and Michelin-starred establishments cater to every taste.

Entertainment

Although winter is quieter than summer, the islands maintain a lively cultural calendar. Snowbirds can enjoy classical music concerts, art exhibitions, and traditional festivals such as Sant Antoni and Carnival. In Palma, theaters and cultural centers like Teatre Principal offer a variety of performances throughout the season.

Shopping

From artisan markets to stylish boutiques, shopping in the Balearics is a pleasure. Palma’s old town is full of unique shops selling local crafts, fashion, and gourmet products. Traditional markets in every town offer local cheeses, wines, ceramics, and textiles, making shopping an authentic cultural experience.

Sports

For sports enthusiasts, the islands offer a wealth of activities. There are excellent golf courses, particularly in Mallorca, open throughout the winter. Water sports like sailing, kayaking, and diving are also available year-round, especially on warmer days. Tennis clubs and cycling centers cater to both beginners and seasoned athletes.

Lifelong Learning & Education

Snowbirds interested in learning can find Spanish language schools, art workshops, and culinary courses across the islands. Universities and cultural associations often offer open classes and seminars on topics like history, photography, and local traditions, creating wonderful opportunities for cultural immersion and personal growth.

Balearic Islands – Experiences & Events

Festivals & Events

Even during the quieter winter months, the Balearic Islands host vibrant festivals that showcase their deep-rooted traditions. In January, the Festes de Sant Antoni light up towns across Mallorca and Menorca with bonfires, music, and colorful parades. February brings Carnival celebrations, featuring lively costumes, street parties, and local delicacies. Throughout the winter, each island also celebrates smaller village festivals ("fiestas patronales"), giving visitors a unique glimpse into authentic island life and community spirit.

Cultural Activities

The Balearic Islands offer a rich cultural scene that keeps snowbirds engaged all season long. Art lovers can explore contemporary galleries like Es Baluard in Palma, or visit traditional art spaces in Ibiza and Menorca. Music and theater performances are common in venues like the Teatre Principal in Palma and the Auditorio de Maó in Menorca. In addition, many cultural centers organize language classes, workshops, and exhibitions focused on local crafts, history, and gastronomy, allowing visitors to dive deeper into the islands’ vibrant heritage.

Canary Islands - Overview

If there is a special place to live year-round in warm temperatures and a relaxed yet vibrant atmosphere, it is the Canary Islands. These eight islands — Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, La Palma, La Gomera, El Hierro, and La Graciosa — each have a unique charm that captivates everyone who visits. Within the archipelago, Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the largest and most populated islands, offering a wide range of services and activities, while the smaller islands provide a quieter, more intimate experience.

All the islands are well connected by ferry and domestic flights, making it easy to explore multiple destinations during a stay. Swimming in the ocean during the middle of winter, enjoying fresh tropical fruits like bananas, mangos, and papayas, hiking up majestic peaks such as Mount Teide --Spain’s highest mountain--or wandering along trails surrounded by lush, native vegetation are just a few of the unique experiences that the Canary Islands offer year-round.

Learn more about the Canary Islands here.

Canary Islands – Things To Do

Attractions & Sights

The Canary Islands offer breathtaking landscapes and a wide range of attractions. From the volcanic beauty of Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote to the historic colonial towns of La Laguna in Tenerife (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), there is no shortage of places to discover. Other highlights include the lush Garajonay National Park in La Gomera, the impressive sand dunes of Maspalomas in Gran Canaria, and the starry skies of La Palma, one of the world’s top stargazing destinations.

Fitness & Outdoor Recreation

Thanks to the islands’ eternal spring climate, outdoor activities are available year-round. Snowbirds can hike through volcanic landscapes, coastal trails, and forested mountains. Cycling is also popular, with both road and mountain biking options. Water sports like surfing, diving, and sailing are abundant, while yoga and wellness retreats offer more relaxed ways to stay active.

Food & Dining

The Canary Islands are famous for their fresh and distinctive cuisine. Local specialties include papas arrugadas (salted wrinkled potatoes) with mojo sauce, freshly caught fish, goat cheeses, and tropical fruits like bananas, mangoes, and avocados. Dining options range from charming seaside restaurants to high-end establishments offering Canarian and international flavors.

Entertainment

While the islands are quieter in winter compared to the summer high season, there is always something happening. Visitors can enjoy music festivals, local fiestas, cultural exhibitions, and live performances at theaters and cultural centers, particularly in cities like Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and Santa Cruz de Tenerife.

Shopping

Snowbirds will find a variety of shopping experiences, from modern malls to local markets. The Canary Islands are a duty-free zone, offering attractive prices on electronics, perfumes, and fashion. Traditional markets sell local crafts, handmade jewelry, pottery, and delicious local produce.

Sports

The islands are a paradise for sports lovers. Golf courses are abundant and operate year-round, offering stunning ocean views. The mild temperatures also make it ideal for tennis, hiking, windsurfing, and kitesurfing, especially in areas like Fuerteventura and Lanzarote, which are known for their excellent wind conditions.

Lifelong Learning & Education

For those interested in personal enrichment, the Canary Islands offer numerous opportunities. Spanish language schools welcome international students, and many towns host workshops in photography, painting, ceramics, and cooking. Universities and cultural institutions often offer public lectures and short courses, making it easy for snowbirds to learn and engage with the local culture.

Canary Islands – Experiences & Events

Festivals & Events

The Canary Islands celebrate a lively calendar of festivals throughout the year, offering snowbirds the chance to experience authentic local traditions. One of the most famous events is the Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, considered one of the largest and most colorful carnivals in the world, with dazzling parades, extravagant costumes, and live music. 

Cultural Activities

Culture is deeply rooted in everyday life across the Canary Islands. Snowbirds can enjoy a wide range of cultural activities, from visiting art galleries and history museums to attending concerts and theater performances. Venues like the Auditorio de Tenerife and Teatro Pérez Galdós in Gran Canaria host classical music, opera, and contemporary dance shows. Traditional Canarian folklore performances, handicraft exhibitions, and local gastronomy fairs also provide rich opportunities to immerse in the islands' heritage. Additionally, the Canary Islands’ strong ties to astronomy, especially in La Palma and Tenerife, offer fascinating cultural experiences related to stargazing and scientific discovery.

See why Canadian snowbirds love Spain