When is the Best Time to Visit Spain?

Spain enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means scorching days and balmy nights between June and August. Most of the rainy days (and snowfall in the mountains) are from December to February. Spring and autumn are generally the most popular times to visit Spain, as temperatures are pleasant enough for sightseeing.

Thanks to its diverse landscape, Spain has plenty of attractions and activities. The pristine beaches and national parks in Ibiza, Alicante, and San Sebastian are popular amongst beachgoers and nature lovers in the summertime, while Gothic and Renaissance buildings in Barcelona and Madrid attract history buffs and art enthusiasts in autumn. It really just depends on what you want to do in Spain.

1. Best time for a beach trip

The beaches of the Canary Islands, Ibiza, Alicante, Barcelona, and San Sebastian are typically packed with tourists during the summer. Between the months of June and August, Spain enjoys a number of unique festivals such as La Tomatina in Valencia and Pride in Madrid. Daytime temperatures in cities south of Spain can get unbearably high, especially in July and August. Be sure to pack along sunscreen, light clothing, and sunglasses for your trip, as well as drink plenty of water when you’re out and about. If you prefer cooler days during your summer vacation, plan a trip to cities in northern Spain, such as Santiago de Compostela and Bilbao.

2. Best time to explore the cities

For travellers looking to enjoy a city break in Spain, Barcelona and Madrid often come to mind. The best time to explore these cities without the risk of getting sunburned is in the autumn (September - November), when the average temperature is about 26°C at its highest and 5°C at its lowest.

Another advantage of visiting Spain during this time of the year is that you won’t need to endure long lines when visiting museums, art galleries, and historical buildings.

3. Busiest time to visit Spain

July and August are typically the busiest periods in Spain, especially in the southern coast.

Flights and hotels are also often priciest during the summer, so reserve both well in advance if you’re planning a trip to cities like Barcelona, Costa del Sol, and San Sebastian. The expansive beaches allow for outdoor activities such as kitesurfing, sailing, swimming, and surfing.

4. Cheapest time to visit Spain

The cheapest time to visit Spain is usually from December to March, though you can also enjoy affordable flights and hotels in early spring and late autumn. The winter months see many vibrant markets and activities dedicated to annual celebrations such as Christmas, Carnival, and New Year’s Eve. Head to the mountainous regions of Granada and the Pyrenees to enjoy excellent conditions for winter sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

5. Our favourite places in Spain in winter

1. If you’re looking for guaranteed winter sun, Tenerife and the Canary Islands should be top of your list. Daytime temperatures rarely drop below 20°C and even at night, you’ll only need a thin sweater.
2. Granada in southern Spain is another popular winter destination thanks to the strange combination of nearby beaches and snow-capped mountains. Add to that the fascinating Moorish history and excellent regional cuisine for a trip with a little bit of everything.

6. Our favourite places in Spain in spring

1. Seville is one of hottest cities in mainland Europe. Temperatures can reach a blistering 47°C in mid-summer. In springtime, the warm and dry Mediterranean climate is perfect for exploring and enjoying the big festivals like Semana Santa and The Spring Fair.
2. Barcelona is busy throughout the year and each season has its own charms, but we like springtime in the Catalan capital best of all. Blooming flowers line the streets and the weather is suitable for city exploring or lounging on the beach.

7. Our favourite places in Spain in summer

1. San Sebastian, on the northern coast of Spain, is a stunning beach town that is full of culture and a rich cuisine. This town in the Basque country is famed for its unique type of tapas dishes, known as pintxos.
2. Summer in the Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Majorca, and Menorca means party time. You’ll find people travel from all over the world to hit the clubs and beach bars.

8. Our favourite places in Spain in autumn

1. September in Madrid is just perfect. The sky is blue, the temperatures in the high 20s. The locals are back from their long summer vacations and there’s a vibrancy that is missing through the long, hot summer.
2. La Rioja is the famous wine region in central Spain. Every September the La Rioja Wine Harvest Festival takes place to celebrate the harvest and allow the locals to enjoy the fruits of their labour.

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