Best Time to Visit Spain

SD › Best Time to Visit Spain
Updated: October 31, 2019

See Also

• Prime Period to Tour Barcelona
• Premium Accommodations in Barcelona
• A guide for traveling to the city of Barcelona
• Preferable Period to Tour Madrid
• Best Hotels in Madrid
• Premium Accommodations in Seville
• Highly Rated Accommodations for Families in Naxos

When is the best time to visit Spain?

The finest time period to go to Spain is from May through September. Throughout this phase, the shorelines are perfect for swimming and the climate is warm for enjoying many other activities too. Arriving at the early or later portion of that timeframe can mean fewer crowds and temperatures that usually are not blazing hot. Otherwise, expect to face the crowds, the heat, and pay the maximum prices for airfare and lodging.

• Most Optimal Weather Conditions: Planning a visit to Spain from mid-April to mid-May or during the month of October helps avoid extreme heat or cold. The spring period brings pleasant temperatures averaging in the upper teens and low 20s with relatively little rainfall, while October averages 22°C in the afternoon and tends to have fair weather, particularly during the first half of the month.
• Optimal Time for Observing Sights: If you wish to experience the attractions without the crowds of countless tourists, avoid the summer months and holiday periods, particularly Christmas and Easter. Conditions will be comfortable while crowds are thinner generally during the first half of March, May and around mid-September through October. When visiting popular locations, try to arrive early in the morning to prevent long lines.
• Ideal Time for Beaches: Individuals wanting a beach-centered holiday in Spain will prefer going when conditions are warm and swimming water temperatures are suitable, generally May through early to mid-October. During summer`s peak, beaches will be densely crowded. Therefore, scheduling your visit in May or mid-September to early October may allow more serene enjoyment.
• Best Time for Festivals: While there are many festivals throughout the year in Spain, you’ll have the most choices if you go anytime from late spring to early fall. Primavera Sound, one of the largest alternative music/indie festivals globally, is hosted in Barcelona in late May. June brings lots of great pride celebrations across the country, while July hosts the Running of the Bulls. September is the best time to come for wine harvest festivals.

Spain Travel Seasons

• High Season (May through August): High season overlaps with the warmest climate of the year, with the top of the season July and August. On the off chance that you visit presently expect huge groups, long queues and occupied seashores, alongside the most noteworthy airfare and room rates of the year. Obviously, this is additionally the time the seashores are best for swimming, there will be innumerable spirited events and wonderfully long days with the sun not going down until around 9:30 p.m.
• Shoulder Season (mid-March through April and mid-September through October): The transitional period between high and low seasons, the early portions of spring and fall generally provide pleasant temperatures, open attractions and fewer crowds allowing visitors to experience Spain. Opportunities may arise during this time to find discounted lodging and airfare costs as well.
• Low Season (November through mid-March): The latter fall and winter represent the low season in Spain. In most areas temperatures infrequently descend below frost in the mornings, despite prospects of snowfall in the mountains and ski resorts. If one can slightly adapt clothing and ready for periodic drizzle, sights can be explored sans crowds – yet lounge periods on the beaches must not be scheduled. Rather, wander the winding roads at an untroubled, leisurely pace appreciating the more tranquil atmosphere. This constitutes an exceptional time for budget-conscious travelers, with accommodations rates and airfare generally at their lowest yearly costs.

Spain Weather by Month

• Spain Weather in January: One should not expect sunbathing conditions if visiting Spain in January. Temperatures fluctuate subject to location, being quite nippy with snowfall in elevated zones while lower altitudes have average daytime highs ranging from 11°C to 16°C. Madrid can experience surprisingly mild conditions or harsh cold spells, although it receives a typical precipitation total of just 40mm split over nine days this month. Southern and coastal regions tend to warmth comparatively, with northern areas facing the chilliest and wettest conditions. Packing layers of clothing is consistently advisable. When sunlight emerges it likely induces a perception of heat so one may desire warmer seasonal attire alongside items maintaining comfort in cooler weather.
  (Average highest temperature: 12°C. Average rainfall: 40mm.)
• Spain Weather in February: Temperatures rise somewhat in February, though they can change quite a bit relying on where you are visiting. Overall, expect some pleasant sunny days along with gloomy days and the probability of rainfall if you visit now. Throughout the country daytime highs range from 12°C to 17°C, while lows in some areas are just above freezing. There should be plenty of snow at the mountain resorts for skiing, while southern Spain, such as Andalusia and Seville delight in relatively moderate weather that can make it a wonderful time to appreciate the sights, though still too chilly for sunbathing.
  (Average highest temperature: 13°C. Average rainfall: 41mm.)
• Spain Weather in March: By March heralding the advent of spring, temperatures truly initiate warming now, particularly in the southern part which experiences average temperatures in the mid to upper teens, and on some occasions the mercury can even achieve the low twenties. Precipitation is minimal now with merely 30mm on standard over 8 days in Madrid. The north tends to obtain more rain than the south, so if you plan to visit Galicia or Basque country, you may want to carry a rain covering or an umbrella. Otherwise, pack an assortment of clothing for both warmer and cooler occasions, like sunglasses as the sun is likely to be out much of the time.
  (Average highest temperature: 17°C. Average rainfall: 30mm.)
• Weather in Spain in April: April brings progressively warmer temperatures which may even feel like summer in the southern region of Andalusia. Generally, expect warmer, drier conditions in the south, and cooler days in the north with a greater possibility of precipitation. Showers are more likely to fall there, averaging 50mm over 10 days in Madrid. This implies possibly needing a light waterproof jacket or umbrella alongside clothing that can be layered. While sunbathing on the shorelines may be possible, the sea will be too chill for swimming at just 14°C. A trip to the south means packing mostly summer attire like short-sleeved tops, dresses, and shorts, although with some items for cooler evenings, while visits to the north may look to focus on more spring-like clothing along the lines of lighter long-sleeved shirts and long pants.

(Average highest temperature: 19°C. Average rainfall: 37mm.)

• Weather in Spain During May: May represents one of the better periods to visit Spain, with the intense heat of summer and large tourist masses still weeks away. Temperatures do notably increase, with inland locations such as Madrid generally seeing afternoon highs around 24°C. Expect plentiful sunshine in southern regions which are consistently in the upper 20s now and see very little rainfall. In the north it will be slightly chillier, with afternoon highs near 18°C and a greater probability of rain with average precipitation of 40mm over eleven days during this time. No matter the area, heavy coats prove unnecessary. In the north, mix clothing like sweatshirts and sweaters with some summer attire. In the south dresses, shorts and sandals will suffice. The sea likely remains too cool for swimming at 18°C but beaches usually suit sunbathing well during this season.”
  (Average highest temperature: 24°C. Average rainfall: 40mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Spain for the Month of June: Summers across Spain are typically hot, and June will likely be warm no matter where you plan to visit within the country. The daily high temperature in Madrid rises to around 29°C during this month while regions in southern Andalusia frequently experience thermometer readings in the 30s. Rainfall is essentially non-existent in southern areas with just a slight possibility in the north averaging approximately 30mm total precipitation. By the south coast, ocean temperatures rise enough for comfortable swimming by around 21°C, so remember to pack your swimsuit to make the most of the stunning beaches. This is the time to focus on lightweight clothing and liberal applications of sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat given intensity of solar exposure. Evenings tend to necessitate a sweater or light jacket if planning evening activities outdoors due to overnight lows averaging a brisk 13°C.
  (Average highest temperature: 26°C. Average rainfall: 11mm.)
• Spain Weather in July: July tends to be even warmer than June as the second hottest period of the year, which means if ample sunshine is desired and very high heat is tolerated, it`s a great time to be in Spain. The ocean temperatures are around 23°C now making it perfect for a refreshing swim. Barcelona, typically experiencing highs in the upper 20s, will be more comfortable than Madrid at the peak of summer, where the mercury often approaches or even surpasses the mid-30s. Nearly cloudless days throughout the month are predicted with only about 10mm of rain expected spread over three days in July. Outdoor sights may need to be seen during the coolest hours of the day. Bring swimming wear, plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat now.
  (Average highest temperature: 32°C. Average rainfall: 10mm.)
• Conditions in Spain during August: August is typically the warmest month in Spain, with average daytime highs of 33°C, though places like Madrid may feel much hotter because of intense humidity that can make breathing difficult. If visiting during this time, be sure to book accommodations with air conditioning for more comfortable sleep. With the sweltering heat, most locals head to coastal areas, so many restaurants and bars in inland cities may close. Barcelona will be a bit cooler at an average high of 30°C, though the city tends to empty out as well as locals favor beach holidays. Come prepared as for July with lightweight, breathable clothing and strong sun protection (Average highest temperature: 33°C. Average rainfall: 10mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Spain for September: Early September is likely to continue with significantly warm temperatures, but a cooling trend will commence soon. Throughout much of the month, Madrid may still experience uncomfortable heat, with the thermometer lowering later in September. The average high dips to around 29°C and beaches stay suitable for swimming yet many visitors have departed while locals return to work obligations. Barcelona usually registers a few degrees cooler yet remains quite pleasant at the coast. Anticipated precipitation approximately doubles to 20mm across 6 days this month but remains insufficient to interfere with plans. Arriving now means packing summer attire as well as some items for cooler evenings.
  (Average highest temperature: 29°C. Average rainfall: 20mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Spain During October: October can be a excellent month to visit Spain, with numerous sunny, warm days and little rainfall, especially during the first half of the month. Temperatures are pleasant, typically around the lower 20s Celsius in Madrid – expect it to be a bit warmer in southern regions and cooler in northern areas. If traveling later in October, you may want to pack a lightweight rain jacket or umbrella as odds of precipitation increase somewhat, with an average of 40mm over 10 days. Nights are getting much cooler with low temperatures around 9°C, so packing clothing suitable for mild days and chilly evenings is advised.
  (Average highest temperature: 22°C. Average rainfall: 40mm.)
• Weather in Spain in November: There is a drastic alteration in the atmosphere now with daytime high temperatures dropping significantly to around 15°C in Madrid. It will be a couple of degrees warmer in the southern region of Andalusia, but it’s no longer a good time for swimming at the beach. In the Basque country and regions in the north, the weather can be unpredictable but generally cold and rainy. It is possible to experience some sunny, warm days along the coast in places like San Sebastian. In the northwest, in Galicia, rain is probable, but it won’t be too chilly. If you plan to come now, bring a mix of clothing for mildly warm and cool weather, tossing in a rain jacket just in case.
  (Average highest temperature: 17°C. Average rainfall: 34mm.)
• Climatic conditions in Spain in December: Holidaying in Spain during December would not involve time on the beaches, but there would also not be a traditional white Christmas – even in the coldest cities, frost is usually the extent of wintry weather. Snowfall would only be found at ski resorts. Madrid typically sees average daily highs of just 11°C, with Barcelona a touch warmer. The Andalusia region experiences the mildest climate but highs there top out at around 16-17°C on warmer afternoons. While rainfall is still light overall with roughly 50mm spread out over 10 days on average, a rain jacket may be prudent, focusing on attire for cooler conditions in northern areas and lighter layers that can be added or removed in the south.
  (Average highest temperature: 12°C. Average rainfall: 50mm.)

Spain Events and Festivals

Spain in January

• New Year’s Day – January 1 is a national holiday across Spain which implies many sights and attractions, restaurants and bars will be closed, along with most shops. There are nearly always some eateries open, however. While there may be some special events planned, it’s primarily a day to recover and relax from the New Year’s Eve festivities.
• Three King’s Day – January 6th is considered the day of the three biblical magi, a national holiday and time when elaborate parades featuring the arrival of the three “kings” by boat are anticipated. After being welcomed, they’ll circulate around city streets on colorful floating displays, tossing sweets and gifts to children. Traditionally this is also when Christmas presents are exchanged.
• Celebration of San Anton – This tribute honors San Anton, the Patron Saint and guardian of animals over the weekend closest to January 17 each year. This long-running festival that started in the 17th century includes conventional bonfires, street processions and fireworks in many cities and towns across Spain, like Malaga, Granada, and Nerja.
• Jarramplas – One of the great food fights in Spain, this unique festival, also referred to as the Crazy Turnip Throwing Festival, is held in the village of Piornal in San Sebastian on January 19 and 20 every year as it has for centuries now. A person dresses in a devil costume with colorful ribbons and a horned mask running down the streets playing a drum while people throw turnips at them.

Spain in February

• Santa Agueda Women’s Festival – Annually held near February 5th, this commemoration involves the town’s women singing and dancing paying tribute to the battle of Segovia from the early 13th century when the Moors ultimately took control of the region. During the battle, women entertained the troops while they were fighting to seize the fortress.
• Carnival – Carnival normally falls before Lent, usually in February but sometimes in late January, March or early April. In 2020, it runs from February 20 through March 1. Many cities across Spain will host festive gatherings, with the Carnival of Cadiz fame for its lavish celebrations. Troupe performers will flood the roadways dressed in colorful costumes, singing and playing instruments with songs that humorously comment on politicians. A massive papier-mâché sardine will noisily wind its way through the avenues to its final destination. Gastronomic festivals are enjoyed in the pre-carnival season such as the Ostionada, an oyster social event.
• Festival of Santa Eulalia – Barcelona’s biggest children`s party, hosted yearly for four days around Santa Eulalia’s Day, February 12th. Activities will encompass concerts, parades, puppets, workshops, human towers and additional fun.

Spain in March

• Guy Fawkes Day (November 5) – Evening processions through the roadways of numerous islands come to an end with the suspension and igniting of a model of Guy Fawkes, the British malefactor connected to the Gunpowder Plot of 1605 in London. The optimum celebrations are in Nassau.
• Saint Joseph’s Day/Father’s Day – Saint Joseph’s Day is a national holiday observed on March 19th annually in most regions of Spain as part of the Roman Catholic calendar. It also doubles as Father’s Day. While dedicated to remembering Saint Joseph displaying lilies or images of him as a carpenter, children also traditionally prepare their father’s breakfast and/or give a small gift.
• The Fallas of Valencia – For five consecutive days in mid-March, specifically from March 15 through 19 in the year 2020, this event features giant colorful sculptures and figurines that take to the streets and squares of Valencia. It has been designated an event of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

Spain in April

• Holy Week (Semana Santa) – Holy Week marks one of the most significant religious periods annually and brings colorful processions and festivities across the country. It spans from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday, April 5-11 in 2020. The most spectacular events in Andalusia occur in Seville and Malaga, when streets become occupied by elaborate parades while religious displays depict biblical scenes. Holy Week in Viveiro, Galicia offers a fascinating religious and cultural experience with a fabulous atmosphere, but no matter where one goes something is sure to celebrate Semana Santa.
• Saint George’s Day – Annually celebrated in various regions of Spain on April 23 each year, Saint George’s Day honors this patron saint of soldiers for cities which have the saint as their holy protector, connected to historic events which occurred during the Reconquista. The city of Alcoi in Valencia hosts one of the biggest celebrations, as an expression of thanksgiving that includes a parade of thousands of people dressed in medieval outfits forming two contrasting “armies” of Christians and Moors, and reenacting the siege that gave the city to the Christians.
• Feast of Virgin of Montserrat – Annually on April 27, hundreds depart Barcelona, heading into the mountains to Santa Maria abbey, approximately a half-hour’s drive from the city. A feast of Our Lady of Montserrat is held there, including a mass, while the main square hosts a variety of activities. Live music and group dancing featuring traditional Catalan dances, lots of food and drink, and more will be present.

Spain in May

• San Isidro Festival – This festival occurring throughout the entire month of May in Madrid brings musical performances to public squares in the city and nighttime parties with dancing later in the day.
• Trujillo National Spanish Cheese Festival – Those with a taste for cheese shouldn`t miss this event in Trujillo. Considered one of the largest dairy exhibitions globally, it takes place early May annually, on May 5th in 2019. Around 300 diverse cheese varieties will be showcased, with many local cheesemakers flaunting their finest selections, alongside a broad selection of local wines to accompany it all.
• Cordoba Patios Festival – This two-week long festival occurring in mid-May, specifically May 6 through May 19 in the year 2019, is a colorful event in Cordoba where normally closed courtyards are opened to the public as part of a contest for the most attractively adorned space. There will be a vast array of flowers in bloom and a wide selection of delicious foods available.
• Jerez Horse Fair – Dating back approximately five centuries, this fair held at the Gonzalo Hontorio Fairground in Cadiz, is a spectacle not worth missing, featuring horse parades, street celebrations, and all-night singing and dancing for a week in mid-May, May 11-18 in 2019.
• Primavera Sound – Taking place in Barcelona in late May and early June, around the end of May to beginning of June specifically in 2019, Primavera Sound is considered the largest alternative/Indie music event globally. Concerts will occur at various different venues across the Raval neighborhood, with the primary festivities hosted at Parc del Form.

Spain in June

• The Noche de San Juan – With ancient pagan roots, this festival today is renowned for its all-night parties throughout Spain’s coastal areas, especially in Andalusia where there are bonfires, music, dancing and fun.
• Uva Festival – Held over three days in June (June 8-10, 2019) in a former monastery in Ronda, this festival is dedicated to contemporary culture through the blending of music, architecture and visual arts.
• The Aquatic and Ham Festival – Held in the village of Lanjarón in the mountainous Alpujarran region, this yearly festival occurs on June 23rd and includes a massive water battle at midnight. Following the soaking, attendees feast on ham, which is famous in the Alpujarras.
• Satisfaction Spain – There are celebrations of Gay Pride throughout the nation, with two of the largest in Madrid and Barcelona. PRIDE Barcelona will focus around Avenida Maria Cristina on June 29 and 30, including music, dance, workshops, sports, live presentations and exhibits. Madrid hosts the biggest gay parade in Europe and one of the greatest in the world with six different stages throughout the city, open-air concerts, a parade and much more, from June 28 through July 6 in 2019.

Spain in July

• El Grec Spain – One of Barcelona’s most anticipated festivals each year, El Grec, or The Greek, is a cultural festival featuring music, dancing, theater, flamenco and films throughout the month of July.
• International Jazz Celebration at Getsxo – Throughout the month of July, numerous jazz concerts are hosted in the Biscayan town of Getxo, attracting music lovers from around the world. The main open areas of the town are transformed into spaces for hosting competitions and shows.
• The Running of the Bulls/San Fermin Festival – For 8 consecutive days in Pamplona from July 7th to the 14th, 2019, San Fermin, also known as the Running of the Bulls, is among Spain`s most legendary celebrations. Each morning throughout the festival, six bulls chase locals and visitors around the roadways guiding to the Pamplona bullfighting ring. There will be abundant food and drink, dancing, and additional entertainment.
• International Music and Dance Festival – This festival in Granada hosted in July (2019’s dates still pending announcement) highlights local folklore music and dance among the main historical sites of the city, such as the spectacular Alhambra Palace.

Spain in August

• Feria de Malaga – One of Spain’s largest festivals occurs over a week in mid-August brining music, dancing, shows, horses, daily processions and fireworks to Malaga. It commemorates the conquest of the city by Ferdinand and Isabella in 1487.
• Festa Major del Raval – In the Raval of Barcelona, this annual summer event will be hosted August 15 through August 21 in 2019. It showcases over 40 events, like concerts, traditional Catalan parades, dancing and more.
• Festa de Sant Roc – The oldest festival in Barcelona, Festa de Sant Roc, has been taking place annually since 1589. It’s centered around the Placa Nova and transpires over five days in mid-August, featuring parades with the giants and bigheads, dancing and old-fashioned street games that were popular in the 1800s. It concludes with a “correfoc” (fire run) and fireworks.
• La Tomatina – This novel event in Bunol revolves around an odd tradition that brings thousands out to pelt one another with tomatoes on the final Wednesday of August each year. It marks the conclusion of a week of parties, fairs, markets and parades.

Spain in September

• Pedro Romero Festival – Over the initial week of September, Ronda city comes alive with music, dancing, singing, cuisine and plenty of wine as its most important festival occurs.
• Rioja Wine Harvest Festival – In the capital city of the globally renowned wine region of La Rioja in northern Spain, this festival located in Logrono celebrates the initial harvest of the season around the third weekend of September signaling the beginning of autumn. In the heart of the city, you’ll see grapes carried from nearby vineyards poured into wine barrels by men in traditional clothing using a large wooden tub. The grapes are pressed in a ceremonial fashion. There will be live performances, theatrical productions, culinary tastings and bullfighting spectacles.
• La Merce Festival – Barcelona’s biggest festival takes place across four days around September 24 to honor its patron saint, Our Lady of Merce (La Merc). Music concerts will fill the plazas, such as Placa de Catalunya and Placa Sant Jaume, along with Catalan dances, a swimming race, running race and parades.

Spain in October

• Barcelona Jazz Festival – Jazz performances will be held throughout Barcelona and the Catalonia region starting around October 5 and continuing through the end of the month.
• Fuengirola Fair – One of the largest celebrations on the Costa del Sol, the Feria del Rosario, or Fuengirola Fair, happens over the course of a week. October 6-12 in 2019, the festival incorporates a cattle run, horse processions, street gatherings, a rural barbecue event, all-night dancing, fireworks and additional elements.
• Valencia Day – Each year on October 9 Valencia Day is commemorated with fireworks after midnight the night before followed by a colorful procession traveling to the Metropolitan Church of Cathedral Basilica of Santa Maria. This is also the feast day of Dionisio, traditionally the patron saint of lovers, where men gift their sweetheart silk scarves containing marzipan within.
• Festival De Otono – This festival runs for around four weeks in October and November in Madrid. There will be more than 60 dance, theater and music shows as one of the city’s main performing arts events, designed to highlight the magnificence and resourcefulness of the Spanish people.

Spain in November

• All Saints’ Day – November 1 is an important national holiday. Locals spend the day honoring passed loved ones by leaving flowers and gifts at gravesites, and enjoy traditional meals together.
• Benidorm Festival – Hosted in honor of Benidorm’s patron saints, San Jaime Apostol and Virgen del Sufragio, this event includes parades, open-air theater, sporting events and street parties as well as a massive parade featuring decorated floats followed by a firework show over the main beach area.
• Feriarte – This major arts and antiques fair held in Madrid at the Juan Carlos exhibition center takes place in mid-November, November 16-24 in 2019.

Spain in December

• Constitution Remembrance Day: December 6th marks Constitution Day, a national holiday commemorating the signing of Spain`s new governing structure, significant for transitioning to a constitutional monarchy and democracy. While government offices and many companies close, restaurants and shops typically stay open.
• Christmas Markets – There will be Christmas Markets throughout Spain this month (many open in late December), with Barcelona holding one of the top markets through December 23. The open-air marketplace features handicrafts, Christmas trees and decorations, and many different works of art.
• December 25th and 26th holiday traditions – December 25 and 26 are holidays in Spain. The celebrations begin on December 24th in the evening, when locals often go to midnight church services. December 25th focuses on gift giving and a special lunch. The 26th honors Saint Stephen with a feast that sometimes includes leftovers from Christmas Day and/or a cannelloni pasta dish.
• New Year’s Eve – There will be festivities across Spain on December 31st celebrating the new year. At Puerta del Sol in Madrid, its iconic clock tower marks time for traditional grape consumption, with one grape consumed at each stroke of midnight. Montjic is the place to be in Barcelona hosting the Magic Fountain New Year’s Eve countdown, combining music, fire, water and light exhibitions.