Taxes and fiscality

Holidays in Spain 2026: overview of all national and regional holidays

Last updated on 21.07.2026

Are you planning to travel to Spain in 2026, buy a home, or move to the Costa Blanca, Costa Cálida, or Costa del Sol? Then it is useful to take the official public holidays in Spain into account. During these days, many shops, banks, government services, and notaries are closed, which can affect appointments, property transfers, or administrative matters.

In this article, you will find an overview of the official public holidays in Spain in 2026. We explain the difference between national, regional, and local holidays and provide practical tips for homebuyers, vacationers, and expats.

Why are public holidays in Spain important?

Spain has more official public holidays than many other European countries. In addition to national holidays, the autonomous regions and municipalities also have their own days off.

This means that an office in Alicante might be closed, while a company in Murcia remains open.

Are you planning to buy a home in Spain? Then it is wise to take this into account regarding:

• appointments with the notary;
• mortgage applications;
• visits to town halls;
• applying for a NIE number;
• bank appointments;
• property viewings.

National holidays in Spain 2026

In 2026, the following national holidays apply:

• 1 January: New Year's Day
• 6 January: Epiphany (Día de los Reyes Magos)
• 3 April: Good Friday
• 1 May: Labour Day
• 15 August: Assumption of Mary
• 12 October: National Day of Spain
• 8 December: Immaculate Conception
• 25 December: Christmas Day

Depending on the autonomous region, additional official holidays may also apply.

Regional holidays on the Costa Blanca and Costa Cálida

Are you buying a property in the Valencia or Murcia region? Then you will also have to deal with regional holidays.

Valencia (Costa Blanca)

Some important regional holidays are:

• San José (March 19)*
• Easter Monday*
• St. John's Day (June 24 - local)
• Valencia Day (October 9)

* depending on the province or municipality.

Murcia (Costa Cálida)

Important regional holidays include:

• Murcia Day (June 9)
• Begoña festivals (depending on the municipality)
• Various local patron saints

In addition, municipalities may designate two local holidays annually.

What is Epiphany in Spain?

For many Spaniards, January 6 (Día de los Reyes Magos) is more important than Christmas.

On the evening of January 5, spectacular parades march through almost all cities and villages. Children traditionally receive their gifts on January 6.

For tourists, this is one of the most enjoyable periods to visit Spain.

Holy Week (Semana Santa)

Semana Santa is one of the most important religious events in Spain.

Impressive processions take place, especially in cities such as:

• Murcia
• Cartagena
• Orihuela
• Málaga
• Seville

hotels are often fully booked quickly during this period.

What does this mean for homebuyers?

Many buyers underestimate the impact of Spanish holidays.

During official holidays, the following are often closed:

• notaries;
• banks;
• town halls;
• tax offices;
• law firms.

As a result, appointments may be postponed by a few days.

Therefore, schedule important appointments as much as possible outside of holidays.

Shops and restaurants during holidays

Not all shops close on a holiday.

Tourist areas such as:

• Benidorm
• Torrevieja
• Orihuela Costa
• La Manga
• Jávea

often remain largely open.

However, larger shopping centers have adjusted opening hours.

Public holidays are ideal for experiencing Spanish culture

A public holiday is much more than just a day off.

It is the perfect opportunity to get acquainted with:

• local gastronomy;
• traditional parades;
• fireworks;
• markets;
• music;
• processions;
• folklore.

For those considering living permanently in Spain, these festivities are a wonderful way to get to know Spanish culture better.

Tips if you are buying a home in Spain in 2026

Do not schedule your notary appointment on or just before a public holiday.

• Apply for your NIE number in good time.
• Be aware of longer processing times at banks.
• Book accommodations early during Semana Santa and the summer months.
• Inquire in advance about local holidays in the municipality where you are buying.

Conclusion

Official holidays in Spain are not only important for vacationers, but also for anyone looking to buy a home, emigrate, or invest. By taking national, regional, and local holidays into account in advance, you avoid delays in administrative procedures and can fully enjoy everything Spain has to offer.

Whether you are looking for a second home on the Costa Blanca, want to invest on the Costa Cálida, or dream of a new life under the Spanish sun: good planning makes all the difference.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about Holidays in Spain 2026: overview of all national and regional holidays

1. How many official public holidays will Spain have in 2026?

Spain has eight national holidays. In addition, each autonomous region has extra regional holidays, and municipalities may also designate local holidays.

2. Are shops open during holidays in Spain?

That depends on the region and the location. In tourist areas, many shops, restaurants, and supermarkets remain open, while local shops are often closed.

3. Are banks closed during Spanish holidays?

Yes. Banks are generally closed on official national and regional holidays.

4. Are notaries open on holidays in Spain?

No. Notaries usually do not work during official holidays. This can affect property transfers and mortgage deeds.

5. What is the most important holiday in Spain?

Besides Christmas, Epiphany (January 6) and Semana Santa (Holy Week before Easter) are the most important holidays in Spain.

6. Does every region in Spain have the same holidays?

No. In addition to the national holidays, all autonomous regions and municipalities have their own official holidays.

7. Why is Epiphany so important in Spain?

On January 6, Spanish children traditionally receive their gifts from the Three Wise Men. The parades on January 5 are among the biggest events of the year.

8. Does the Costa Blanca have different holidays than Murcia?

Yes. Both the Valencia and Murcia regions have their own regional holidays, and municipalities also have local holidays.

9. Can a holiday affect the purchase of a home in Spain?

Yes. During holidays, banks, notaries, and government services are often closed, which can cause delays in administrative procedures.

10. What should I keep in mind if I travel to Spain during a holiday?

Check the opening hours of shops, banks, and attractions in advance, book accommodation well in advance during popular holiday periods, and be prepared for crowds during local festivities.

_{Disclaimer
Nothing in this publication may be reproduced without prior written permission from GRUPO MEDVILLA SPAIN PROPERTIES, SL., trading as "Vidando Estates". The information in this blog is intended solely for general informational purposes. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and correct, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, regarding the completeness, accuracy, or reliability of this information for any purpose whatsoever. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. We are not experts in tax and legal matters. You are therefore required to verify all information yourself for completeness and accuracy. We therefore strongly advise you to engage a registered lawyer to assist you in this matter. If you wish, we can recommend a Dutch-speaking lawyer who lives and works in Spain.}

_{Vidando Estates is a recognized real estate agency with 3 qualified real estate agents (Rudi SLABBINCK, Joyce DEWILDE & Brecht ACKE) and is subject to the Code of Ethics of the API, the Professional Institute of Real Estate Agents in Alicante (Spain) with API no. 00592, and is also subject to the Code of Ethics of the BIV. as a recognized real estate agent and intermediary in Belgium with BIV numbers 514.439 & 520.219. BIV address: Luxemburgstraat, 16B, 1000 BRUSSELS. Royal Decree of 27 September 2006. As one of the managers of GRUPO MEDVILLA SPAIN PROPERTIES, SL. (NIF: B-24908170), Slabbinck Rudi is also registered in the mandatory Registration of Real Estate Agents in the Comunidad Valenciana RAICV1216}