Best Time to Visit Madrid

See Also

• Where to Remain in Madrid
• Top Hotels in Madrid
• Best Family Accommodations in Madrid

When is the best time to visit Madrid?

In my opinion, the months of May and October present the most opportune times to visit Madrid as the weather is pleasantly mild (not too hot or too cold) and crowds tend to be thinner. I find this is an ideal season for exploring by foot, sightseeing attractions, enjoying fair conditions, and potentially finding some respectable deals on flights and lodging.

• Most Advantageous Period for Exploring Madrid`s Attractions: I`ve found the months of May and October present optimal opportunities to appreciate Madrid`s sights. In May, the scorching heat of summer hasn`t yet descended and crowds are more manageable as well. In October, as autumn reaches its peak and school resumes for children, the city starts to cool down beneath a blanket of golden hues in the parks, with no worry of jostling through hundreds of fellow visitors. If visiting in summer, with its intense afternoon sunshine, make sure to plan viewing attractions early, similar to what locals do—take a siesta (or at least a break indoors) by 3pm, then wait until around 7pm before venturing back outside. For hoping to avoid the largest groups, particularly in summer, try not to go to the most popular places and exhibits, like the renowned Prado Museum from 10am to noon. Actually, skipping your nap to instead explore indoor attractions during that time, like air-conditioned museums where you can appreciate displays without hordes blocking your view in the late afternoon as everyone relaxes.
• Best Time to Visit Madrid for the Royal Palace: The Royal Palace is the No. 1 attraction in Madrid, and many come to see the changing of the guard ceremony. If watching that event is a top priority, you may want to avoid visiting during the peak summer months of July and August, as it`s often cancelled due to high temperatures. If you`re there during high season and don`t wish to wait in long lines, plan to arrive around 15 minutes before opening, or near the end of the day around two hours before closing. The winter months, or low season, can arguably provide the optimal experience. While crowds still line up before 11am on Wednesday for the changing of the guard, and weekends see longer waits, arriving just before opening or around 3pm on a Monday, Tuesday or Thursday offers the best chance to enjoy it with relative calm.
• Best Period to Attend a Bullfight in Madrid: If watching a bullfight is part of your plans, you`ll want to visit Madrid between mid-May and October, as that is the only time period when bullfighting occurs there. Fights are held every Sunday at 7pm during the bullfighting season.
• Optimal Time for Experiencing Madrid Nightlife: Madrid is renowned as a prime destination for vibrant nightlife. Many first-time visitors are surprised by the Spanish schedule, which commonly occurs later than most places, but particularly so here. If wanting to engage at its peak, plan a visit during June or July when activity abounds, or around holidays when a festively animated atmosphere prevails. In Madrid, locals typically dine in the evening at 10pm – and a night on the town doesn`t truly start until pubs close in numerous other European cities. It persists until dawn arrives and “salir,” meaning “to go out,” only has significance if continuing past 4am.
• Best Time to Visit Madrid for Shopping: Madrid stands apart when it comes to shopping because of its sheer assortment. Here retailers and their products are never confined to a single style, or a single look. This is a city where almost anything can be discovered, along with distinctive treasures never anticipated to be found. To find the best prices, you’ll want to come during either the summer or winter sales, which offer reductions of as much as 70 percent. The winter sales begin on January 7, just after the Festival of Kings, and run through the end of February, or until inventory is exhausted. The summer sales begin in early July and are held until late September. Generally, if wanting the best choice of items without having to do battle with crowds, shop during the second week of the sale during either season.

Madrid Travel Seasons

• High Season (July and August): Visiting Madrid during the high season generally isn’t recommended unless you’re coming for a specific event. The hottest months of the year see the largest influx of tourists, filling the streets with warm visitors while accommodation rates and business closures peak. There is also mini peak around Christmas, from mid-December to early January, where the city sees many locals away but remains busy. Planning well ahead is important if visiting then to find lodging, especially cheaper options, which may still be challenging.
• Shoulder Season (March through May, September and October): The interim season is an ideal time to explore Madrid, with the latter half of May and the latter half of September seen as the very best options. Temperatures are habitually just right, and wandering around the city is pleasurable. There won’t be as many visitors as there will be during the summer months, but you’ll still have long days to make the most of for sight-seeing.
• Low Season (November through February, except around the Yuletide vacations): Winter, other than Christmastime, has decreased tourism in Madrid. Visitor numbers are notably lower than other periods, plus you’ll enjoy a wide range of accommodation choices along with reduced rates. Most attractions and sights can be experienced at a more relaxed pace, and while the weather can be a bit cool, temperatures rarely drop below freezing, and often sunlight is present, making it feel warmer than the actual temperature.

Madrid Weather by Month

• Weather Conditions in Madrid During January: Winters in the city of Madrid, Spain are cooler than many other areas of the country, but temperatures rarely drop to extremely low levels. January is considered the coldest month, although the mercury can rise to around 10°C on a sunny afternoon and the typical overnight low dips just above the freezing mark to 1°C. Whereas the surrounding mountainous regions generally see significant snowfall during this time of year, the city itself is unlikely to witness any. As long as an individual packs a warm winter coat (and nothing too serious like what would be needed for the frigid winters in places such as Chicago or Stockholm), a few sweaters and perhaps a scarf and pair of gloves, comfort will more than suffice for enjoying sightseeing opportunities. Layering clothing such as wearing a t-shirt underneath the outer winter apparel for those frequent sunny spells is advised too. While some light rain is possible, an umbrella will likely be unnecessary since average precipitation for the month totals only 40mm. (Average Daytime High: 10°C. Median Monthly Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Weather in Madrid in February: February experiences are quite similar to January, with the high temperature rising to a pleasant 12°C, making enjoying warm afternoons more probable. Days are shorter and dimmer during winter, with around 10 hours of daylight on February 1, expanding to 11 hours by month`s end, but there`s a good chance you`ll have at minimum some bright sunshine for exploring the city on foot in relative comfort too. Pack as for January, with warm clothing along with a couple short-sleeved shirts for those days allowing delighting in the sun`s rays. (Average Maximum Temperature: 12°C. Average Precipitation: 40mm.)
• Weather in Madrid during March: Spring is approaching, and this will be evident with the high temperature rising to 16°C this month. There is even less rainfall in March than in the prior two months, with 30mm of precipitation falling over eight days. Thanks partly to daylight saving time, daylight hours will surpass 12 hours with the sun remaining out until after 8:30pm on March 31. Early in the month, a light winter coat may still be needed, but with the changing conditions, the best guideline to follow is to bring layers that can easily be taken off or put back on as temperatures fluctuate. (Average Maximum Temperature: 16°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)
• Weather Conditions in the Spanish Capital City during April: April is identified as one of the wetter calendar months in Madrid, with precipitation levels averaging 50mm spread over approximately 10 occasions, however typically lacking in adequacy to fully hinder plans. Design for moderately cool temperatures, with the standard for this month residing at 11°C, though on numerous days especially amid the second half of April conditions can become as warm as 17°C. Once again, plan to wear outfits appropriate for layering; carry a lightweight jacket and maybe a sweater for cooler mornings and evenings. Having a compact umbrella in possession proves advantageous just in case getting caught in a downpour. Conversely, heat waves are conceivable, so you may want a skirt or pair of shorts if timing your visit during intervals higher than normal temperatures. (Average Maximum: 17°C. Average Rainfall: 50mm.)
• Madrid Weather in May: Spring doesn’t persist long in Madrid, with summer fast approaching in May as average high temperatures increase five degrees to 22°C this month. While this is considered one of the rainier months, May averages less precipitation than April with 40mm of rainfall, and there’s generally lots of beautiful sunshine to enjoy on most days. Many visitors feel this month is an ideal time to be in Madrid, with the big crowds yet to arrive and weather often idyllic. The occasional showers are a perfect excuse to cozy up in a café until they dissipate if you don’t have an umbrella. (Average highest temperature: 22°C. Average rainfall: 40mm.)
• Madrid Weather in June: Temperatures notably climb this month as summer officially arrives, rising seven degrees Celsius from May to 29°C. While fairly warm, it won’t be as hot as the following two months, and June usually presents good conditions in Madrid. Rainfall is minimal, so an umbrella likely won’t be needed, with only 30mm falling over six days in June. The nearly 15 hours of daylight means plenty of time to enjoy the sights, just be certain to lather on sunscreen to prevent burning, and a wide-brimmed hat may be wanted if especially sensitive to the sun; lightweight clothing, sunglasses and sandals are now standard wear. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Precipitation: 30mm.)
• Madrid Weather in July: The hottest month in Madrid is July, with the average high temperature rising to a sizzling 33°C, and very little if any rainfall to provide cooling relief with only 10mm of precipitation expected during this month. At this time of year, many shops and some cafes close their doors to customers during the peak heat hours, reopening later in the afternoon. To avoid sunburn and heat exhaustion, you may want to follow suit by enjoying a nap or at least spending time indoors within an air-conditioned building like a museum when the sun`s rays are at their strongest. With the weather so hot during the day and evenings remaining warm, this offers a good opportunity to enjoy the nightlife offerings. As the heat can make sleep uncomfortable, try to book an air-conditioned accommodation. Just as you would for June, pack your summer attire, including sundresses, short-sleeved shirts, shorts, sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: 10mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Madrid during August: August continues delivering scorchingly hot weather, with afternoon high temperatures reaching 33°C and sometimes stretching all the way to 37°C or even higher. Similar to the previous month, there is very little precipitation offering relief, with 10mm of rainfall spanning three days. In August, many people are on vacation from employment, and with reduced population in the city, numerous businesses close. If you choose to visit Madrid during this month, it’s best to start your day as early as possible in the morning so you can enjoy the outdoors before heat levels rise too much, usually around 2 or 3pm. Use this time for rest, relaxation or taking a nap and then head out again when conditions are more comfortable, around 7pm. (Average Maximum Temperature: 33°C. Average Precipitation: 10mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Madrid During September: While temperatures remain relatively warm at the start of the month with highs averaging around 29°C, September brings a welcome reduction in the most intense heat experienced during summer. As the weeks progress, conditions become progressively more pleasant. The latter half of September sees slightly cooler day and night temperatures, rendering this an excellent time to explore the city. The mood throughout Madrid also differs as residents return to work and school while relieved the hottest weather has passed. While rainfall is somewhat elevated with approximately 20mm falling across six days typically, rain gear is seldom needed. By packing clothing suitable for both summer and cooler evenings along with a light sweater, visitors can keep comfortable. (Average highest temperature: 29°C. Average rainfall: 20mm.)
• Weather Conditions in the City of Madrid During October: October presents pleasant temperatures that allow individuals to comfortably explore the Spanish city on foot. Average high temperatures dip slightly to 21°C, a reduction of eight degrees. While precipitation increases somewhat to approximately 40mm over ten days, rainfall remains fairly minimal and residents can anticipate plenty of sunny skies as well. Early in the month, there is nearly twelve hours of daylight, but with the shifting of clocks forward an hour on October 30th, sunset descends to around 6:15pm, leaving roughly nine and a half hours of daylight by month`s end. Similar to spring, having garments suited for a variety of temperatures proves wise. Conditions seldom become so frigid that a good sweater can`t provide adequate warmth, yet carrying a portable umbrella due to the elevated chance of moisture proves prudent. (Common Maximum Temperature: 21°C. Regular Precipitation: 40mm.)
• November Weather in Madrid: Temperatures in November noticeably decrease, with highs typically not exceeding 15°C. Precipitation increases as well, with around 50mm of rain over nine days on average this month, though generally a simple umbrella can suffice. However, November weather can vary significantly, sometimes bringing shirt-sleeve conditions while other years bring a chill requiring winter wear like coats and scarves. If visiting during this time, having a range of clothing from lighter layers to warmer items may prove useful. (Average Maximum Temperature: 15°C. Average Rainfall: 50mm.)
• December Climate in Madrid: While temperatures may be on the colder side, Madrid is a colorful, lively place to be in December. Expect the thermometer to hover around 7°C, but on some days it climbs as high as 11°C. Most days are cool and crisp, but you’ll still see sunlight. Rainfall is consistent with the previous month, with 50mm falling over nine days, and while snow occasionally falls, it rarely builds up. Bring warm attire, like a winter coat, gloves and perhaps a lightweight jacket for warmer days, along with several sweaters. (Average Max Temperature: 11°C. Average Precipitation: 50mm.)

Madrid Events and Festivals

Madrid in January

• New Year’s Day – On this public holiday marking the start of a new year, many locals residing in Madrid and across Spain take time to unwind and recover following the prior evening`s festivities. While numerous shops, businesses and museums are shut, you may wish to make the most of the empty streets by exploring the city`s diverse neighborhoods such as Alonso Martinez, a picturesque area featuring beautiful architecture and hidden plazas, or heading to the Madrid Zoo, which opens at 9am on January 1.
• Three King’s Parade – This annual celebration on January 5 is one of the most anticipated of the year. Madrid’s parade is among the finest in the whole country, and welcomes the arrival of the Three Kings known as Melchior, Caspar and Balthazar. It involves elaborate costumes and floats along with marching bands, music, horses, oxen and burros. It typically begins at 6pm along Avenida de la Castellana, passing in front of the Plaza de Colon.
• Feast of the Epiphany – Celebrated in numerous locations globally, like Spain, January 6 marks this Spanish national holiday. Commonly, people enjoy an Epiphany cake, or Roscon de Reyes, following lunch or in the evening. The large sweet pastry sometimes filled with custard or cream and decorated like a crown. Inside sits a prize and dry bean. Whoever finds the reward wears the included cardboard crown of gold. And the person with the bean must provide the cake the subsequent year.
• San Anton Festival – This annual celebration held throughout Spain on January 17 honors farm animals. In Madrid`s Chueca district, attendees can witness animals receiving blessings and being exhibited to onlookers. The Ceremony of Animal Blessings involves bestowing blessings upon the creatures as well as their owners to guarantee another year of good health and protection.

Madrid in February

• Candlemas Day (Día de la Candelaria) – Annually on February 2nd, this traditional ceremony honors the Virgin of Candelaria which often involves colorful religious processions through the roads of Madrid. Attendees may observe comic performers attired as farmers guiding around juvenile bulls constructed from timber, while pretend `bullfighters` don silken pants colored with cords and paper blooms to mimic bullfights in jest. In the city center at nightfall, the makeshift bull is then proclaimed `killed,` bringing everyone together in celebration by drinking sangria, signifying its blood.
• Festival – Carnival in Madrid, and elsewhere globally, signifies the beginning of Lent leading up to Easter. In Spain it`s called Semana Santa. Madrid`s more modest carnival takes over streets for around a week in late February/early March, kicking off with a parade and culminating with a masked ball. Throughout the week various festivals feature music, dance, children`s events and traditional ensembles.
• International Contemporary Art Fair (ARCO) – One of the biggest cultural draws on the Spanish calendar, this event, generally held over five nights in mid- to late-February, showcases the finest in modern art from Europe and the U.S. The exhibition, held at the Crystal Pavilion of the Casa de Camp, brings galleries from all over Europe, Asia, Australia and the Americas as well as the works of regional and globally recognized artists.
• Valentine’s Day – El Dia de San Valentin, as February 14 is known locally, does not originate as a Spanish tradition but is celebrated with much merriment. The restaurants and shops are adorned with hearts and roses, and numerous eateries offer special deals catering to pairs celebrating the romantic day. In historic Madrid, several restaurants and bars feature flamenco shows and traditional Spanish meals.

Madrid in March

• Festival of Jesus de Medinaceli – Annually on the first Sunday of the month at the Jesus de Medinaceli hermitage, participants partake in the tradition of making three wishes before heading to an Andalusian-style fair.
• St. Patrick’s Day – While this Irish holiday is becoming increasingly celebrated in Madrid due to the growing number of Irish pubs in the city. Both locals and Irish expatriates commemorate it lavishly, with traditional Emerald Isle cuisine, lots of Guinness, and live Irish music performances. A St. Patrick’s Day procession is hosted in Cabo Roig, typically on March 17 at 5pm. It’s preceded by all kinds of entertainment and activities that commence at noon.

Madrid in April

• Easter and Holy Week (Semana Santa) – The most important days on the Christian calendar between Palm Sunday and Easter Sunday are commemorated in Spain and elsewhere around the globe. Falling sometimes in late March or early to mid-April, Holy Week will be marked from April 9-15 in 2017. The Spanish capital has some of the country`s most ornate celebrations. Streets in many neighborhoods across the city hold colorful processions and additional events. Onlookers can see beautifully adorned floats bearing illustrations of Jesus and the Virgin Mary, accompanied by marching bands and followers. Madrid`s most iconic religious procession on Good Friday departs the Basílica del Cristo de Medinaceli in the Plaza de Jesus around 7pm, traversing central roads like Plaza Cibeles and Puerto de Sol. The chief happening on Easter Sunday takes place in the Plaza Mayor, which includes a gathering of dozens of diverse kinds of drums beating a steady rhythm, symbolizing the earthquakes reported to have occurred when Jesus died on the cross.
• Madrid Open – In late April (April 29, 2016), the Madrid Open commences, bringing together nearly 200 tennis stars, many of whom are internationally renowned, for an exciting tournament that spans 10 days.
• Festimad – This long-running musical event highlights rock, pop and electronica across more than two weeks from mid-April to early May. Past featured artists include Beck, The Smashing Pumpkins and Radiohead. The 2016 lineup spotlights The Posies, The Long Riders and A.N.I.M.A.L.

Madrid in May

• Labour Day – Celebrated annually on May 1 honoring the workforce of Madrid who in 1808 rose up against the occupation by Napoleon’s army, the holiday in Madrid features a major May Day march that attracts over 60,000. Afterwards, many of the participants head to the Casa de Campo, where there is a huge, lively party with music and all sorts of eats.
• The Second of May – On May 2nd, commemorations are held to honor the daring but ultimately unsuccessful uprising against the occupying French forces in 1808. Flamenco shows and concerts take place in Dos de Mayo square in Malasana, where the rebellion initiated, and elsewhere throughout the city.
• The Feast of San Isidro – This festival honoring the Patron Saint of Madrid takes place on May 15, though events are held before and after that day too. You’ll find food fairs, gatherings, music, street parades, dances, bullfights and more. San Isidro marks the beginning of Madrid’s bullfighting season and is the world’s largest event, attracting all the top bullfighters and bull breeders.
• Feria del Libro – This annual event organized in Parque del Retiro for roughly two weeks starting in late May brings together prominent international novelists and historians who come to publicize their most recent works.

Madrid in June

• MULAFEST – Held annually in late June, June 23-26 in 2016, MULAFEST is an urban culture occasion that’s become an important stage for unveiling new trends and concealed talents. It brings together everything from dance and music, like open-air concerts, to theater, art and tattoo work.

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• Festival of San Juan – Held on June 23 and June 24 in the Parque del Retire, fireworks and bonfires celebrate the shortest night of the year.
• Orgullo Madrid – One of the world`s largest gay pride events, Orgullo Madrid takes place annually between mid-June and early July, on June 19-July 2 in 2016. While originally focused primarily on the gay and lesbian communities, it has gradually become a more inclusive festival open to all, centered around Madrid`s Chueca district with parties and free live performances. Its pride parade remains the largest of its kind in Spain, attracting over 1.5 million people to experience the city`s celebratory atmosphere.

Madrid in July

• Summer Events in the City – Known as “the summer celebration” of Madrid, this occasion features open-air cinema in Parque del Retiro as well as pop music, classical music, folkloric dancing and flamenco at various sites throughout the city held during the month of July. Many of the events are free.
• Nuestra Senora de las Victorias – The first Sunday of July sees celebrations take place in the Tetuan district, including several musical performances.
• Virgen del Carmen – For about a week in mid-July, towns across Spain and the neighborhoods of Madrid’s honor the Virgen del Carmen. Festivities are concentrated in the La Latina, Vallecas and Carabanchel neighborhoods of Madrid, and feature an array of sporting and religious events, following rapidly one after another.

Madrid in August

• San Lorenzo, San Cayetano and Virgen de la Paloma Festivals – These festivals all take place within close succession, mainly in Madrid’s historic center, over August 6-15. Locals often dress in traditional clothing, and there is much rejoicing, dancing and music in the streets.
• Running of the Bulls San Sebastian De Los Reyes – The second most famed bull-run in Spain, after the San Fermin festival in Pamplona, occurs in Madrid in late August. Participants don red and white, and spill as much sangria as they imbibe while trying their fortune outrunning the huge beasts.

Madrid in September

• Fiestas del Motin – Generally happening over the first weekend of September, this festival presents re-enactments of renowned nearby mutinies. Each district in Aranjuez, just south of Madrid, depicts scenes of rebellion that are acted out by hundreds of inhabitants.
• Vogue’s Fashion Night Out – Held in mid-September, this event sees over 160 outlets offer discounted high-end items, mostly fashion-centric. Beyond savings, participants can enjoy an elegant night featuring champagne, a glimpse at impending trends and red carpet photo opportunities.
• Festivals of the Virgin of la Torre – The festivals honoring the Virgin of la Torre take place in the Villa de Vallecas district during the second week of September.

Madrid in October

• Fiestas de Otono/Autumn Festival – Throughout the month of October and continuing into November, the Autumn Festival features a wide assortment of music and dance, theater, workshops and circus events at various venues across the city.
• Dia de la Hispanitat – This nationwide commemoration day that observes Christopher Columbus’ “exploration” of the New World, also known as Hispanic Day, is more about celebrating Spain in all its glory than honoring Columbus. Occurring each year on October 12th, Madrid parades its fleet of military equipment along Paseo de Recoletos while fighter aircraft fly overhead and royals sit roadside to watch the procession pass by.
• Halloween – Although Halloween is not a Spanish custom, nowadays, virtually every nightspot in Madrid throws a Halloween party. Huertas, a centrally-located neighborhood, is best known for its October 31st festivities, which can be found in a multitude of restaurants, bars, pubs and nightclubs – many of which offer costume contests with cash awards.

Madrid in November

• All Saints’ Day – On November 1, this national holiday is commemorated by locals paying respects and leaving flowers at the graves of departed loved ones. While banks and government agencies close, many shops, eateries and attractions like museums remain accessible.
• Virgen de la Almudena – On November 9, the Patron Saint of the City, Virgen de la Almudena, is honored with festive celebrations in the city center.
• Feriarte Art and Antiques Fair – This annual arts fair is held in late November, on November 19-27 in 2016. It highlights an enticing selection of furniture, jewelry and works of art, with over 16,000 unique, high-quality items available for purchase by the public.

Madrid in December

• Christmas Market – One of the nation’s most stunning Christmas markets, Plaza Mayor opens in mid-December and continues until January 5. Its market stalls predominantly consist of over 100 log cabins, most providing traditional Christmas products, like adornments and nativity scenes along with handcrafted crafts.

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• Holiday Light City Tour on the NaviBus – The Navibus will give you a tour of all the Christmas lights throughout Madrid, starting and ending at the same stop, Calle Serrano between Goya and Jorge Juan.
• Christmas Eve and Christmas Day – December 24th and 25th are family-centered occasions in Madrid, usually including seafood and the sparkling wine Cava. Nearly every facility, attraction and sight will be shut on Christmas but some restaurants stay open. Most churches hold Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve where all are welcomed.
• New Year’s Eve – December 31st brings about one of the peak celebrations of the year. Thousands pack Madrid’s primary square, Puerto del Sol, and as the antique clock strikes twelve, revelers consume twelve grapes to provide them good fortune in each of the coming year’s 12 months. Afterward, the crowd goes wild kissing and embracing each other, popping bottles of cava, and enjoying the amazing fireworks display.