Coming to Spain but not sure what is the best time to visit? Spain is a country that can be visited all year round, but choosing the right time to visit can make all the difference in your experience. With its diverse landscapes and variety of cultural activities, Spain is a destination that will satisfy a range of travelers, just like you.
In this post, we’ll explore the best time to visit Spain, taking into account the climate, the local festivals, and the different activities that each season offers. We’ll also share insider tips to help you plan your perfect trip. Have a look!
Best time to visit Spain: Spring (March to May)
Spring is a great time to visit Spain, especially for nature lovers. The weather is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10 to 20 degrees Celsius (50 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit). The countryside is blooming, and the parks and gardens are full of colorful flowers.
If you’re a fan of hiking, this is the perfect time to explore the mountain ranges, such as the Pyrenees or the Sierra Nevada, with breathtaking views right after the snow has melted. You can also take advantage of the many cycling routes that crisscross the country, such as the Camino de Santiago or the Via Verde.
Spring is also a great time for cultural vultures. Many festivals take place during this season, including Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the April Fair in Seville. Semana Santa is a solemn religious event, but it’s also a great opportunity to witness impressive processions and traditional music. The April Fair, on the other hand, is a festive celebration of Andalusian culture, with flamenco dancing, bullfighting, and plenty of food and drink.
Things to do in Spain in Spring
- Explore the cherry blossom season in the Jerte Valley: The Jerte Valley, located in the Extremadura region, is famous for its cherry blossom season in spring. It’s a beautiful sight to see the valley covered in a sea of pink and white blossoms.
- Attend the Valencia Fallas Festival: The Fallas Festival is a celebration of art, fireworks, and tradition in Valencia. It takes place in March and is one of the most important festivals in Spain.
- Go birdwatching in the Doñana National Park: Doñana National Park is a natural park located in Andalusia. It’s home to hundreds of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers in spring.
- Visit the Flower Festival in Girona: The Temps de Flors in Girona is a celebration of flowers, art, and history. The festival takes place in May and features stunning floral displays throughout the city.
- Attend the San Isidro Festival in Madrid: The San Isidro Festival is a celebration of Madrid’s patron saint, with events such as bullfighting, concerts, and traditional food and drink. It takes place in May and is one of the most important festivals in Madrid.
Insider tip: If you’re planning to visit Seville during the April Fair, make sure to book your accommodation well in advance. The city gets very crowded during this period, and prices can skyrocket.
Best time to visit Spain: Summer (June to August)
Summer is the high season in Spain and for good reason. The weather is hot and sunny, with temperatures averaging 25 to 35 degrees Celsius (77 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the perfect time to hit the beach, and Spain has some of the best in Europe.
The Costa del Sol, the Costa Brava, and the Balearic Islands are popular destinations, but you can also find quieter beaches in the north of the country, such as the beaches of Asturias or Galicia.
Summer is also the season of festivals. The most famous one is probably the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, which takes place in July. This is a wild event, where participants run in front of a herd of bulls through the streets of the city.
If you prefer something more cultural, you can attend the Festival de Teatro Clásico de Mérida, which takes place in an ancient Roman theater. This festival showcases some of the best classical theater productions in the world.
Things to do in Spain in Summer
- Go to a music festival: Spain hosts many music festivals in the summer, such as the Primavera Sound Festival in Barcelona, the BBK Live Festival in Bilbao, and the Sonar Festival in Madrid.
- Hike in the Picos de Europa: The Picos de Europa is a stunning mountain range in northern Spain, with beautiful hiking trails, picturesque villages, and breathtaking views.
- Visit the Costa Brava: The Costa Brava, in the Catalonia region, is a beautiful stretch of coastline in northeastern Spain, with amazing beaches, hidden coves, and charming seaside villages.
- Take part in La Tomatina Festival: Held on the last Wednesday of August in the town of Buñol, the La Tomatina Festival is a giant tomato fight where people throw tomatoes at each other for fun!
- Relax in the Balearic Islands: These islands are the perfect Mediterranean escape, with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and stunning landscapes.
- Dance in the Feria de Málaga: The Feria de Málaga is a 10-day festival held in August in the city of Malaga. It’s a celebration of Andalusian culture, with music, dance, food, and traditional dresses!
Insider tip: If you’re planning to visit Pamplona during the Running of the Bulls, make sure to read up on the safety rules and follow them strictly. The event can be dangerous if you’re not prepared.
Best time to visit Spain: Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a great time to visit Spain, especially if you’re interested in food and wine. The weather is still warm, with temperatures ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius (59 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the season of the grape harvest, and many wineries and vineyards offer tours and tastings. You can also attend one of the many food festivals that take place during this season, like the San Sebastian Gastronomika.
Autumn is also a great time to explore the cities, as the crowds have thinned out and the prices are lower than in the summer. You can visit the museums and art galleries, and enjoy the local cuisine in the many restaurants and tapas bars. If you’re a fan of architecture, this is a great time to visit Gaudi’s famous buildings in Barcelona.
Things to do in Spain in Autumn
- Visit the Alhambra in Granada: The Alhambra is a stunning Moorish palace and fortress complex in Granada. In autumn, the crowds are smaller, and the temperatures are cooler, making it a great time to visit.
- Take a wine tour in La Rioja: La Rioja is one of Spain’s most famous wine regions, known for its excellent red wines. Take a wine tour, visit the vineyards, and taste some of the best wines in the country.
- Explore the Pyrenees Mountains: The Pyrenees Mountains are a stunning natural wonder that offers plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking, mountain biking, and skiing.
- Attend the Festival of the Virgin of Pilar in Zaragoza: The Festival of the Virgin of Pilar is a traditional festival held in Zaragoza in October, with music, food, and parades.
- Take a road trip through Andalusia: Andalusia is a beautiful region in southern Spain, with plenty of stunning landscapes, beautiful villages, and historic cities like Seville, Granada, and Cordoba. Take a road trip and explore the best of Andalusia right after the high season.
Insider tip: If you’re planning to visit the wineries in Rioja or Ribera del Duero, make sure to book your tour in advance, especially during the weekends. These regions are very popular among wine lovers, and the tours can sell out quickly.
Best time to visit Spain: Winter (December to February)
Winter is the low season in Spain, but that doesn’t mean it’s not worth visiting. The weather can be chilly, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius (41 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). However, this is the perfect time to enjoy the winter sports, such as skiing or snowboarding. The Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada offer some of the best ski resorts in Spain, with slopes for all levels.
Winter is also the season of the Christmas markets, especially in the cities of Barcelona and Madrid. You can find traditional handicrafts, sweets, and decorations, and enjoy the festive atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more unique experience, you can visit the Three Kings Parade, which takes place on January 5th. This is a colorful event, where the three kings ride through the streets on camels, throwing sweets at the children.
Things to do in Spain in Winter
- Get dressed up in the Cadiz Carnival: This Carnival is among the largest and most famous ones in the world, held in February each year.
- Enjoy the Spanish gastronomy with a Tapas and Wine Tour: Discover the amazing culinary culture with a fun activity! Join our Tapas and Wine Tours in Malaga, Seville or Granada.
- Take a day trip to Segovia: Segovia is a beautiful city known for its stunning Roman aqueduct and medieval castle, both of which look especially magical in the winter snow.
- Visit the Canary Islands: The Canary Islands have a mild climate year-round, making them an ideal destination for winter sun seekers. Explore the beautiful beaches, volcanic landscapes, and local culture.
- Take a Flamenco class in Andalusia: Andalusia is the birthplace of Flamenco, and winter is a great time to take an indoor class and learn about this unique art form.
- Go to the Sierra Nevada National Park: The Sierra Nevada National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in southern Spain, with plenty of hiking trails, winter sports, and picturesque mountain villages to explore.
Insider tip: If you’re planning to ski in the Pyrenees or the Sierra Nevada, make sure to check the snow conditions before you go. Some years the snowfall is not enough, and the slopes may be closed.
Best season to visit Spain: Conclusion
Overall, Spain is a great destination to visit all year round, depending on your preferences and interests. If you’re a nature lover, spring and autumn are the best seasons. If you’re a beach-goer, summer is the obvious choice. If you want to avoid crowds, choose winter. And finally, If you’re interested in culture and festivals, any season can offer something unique.
Whatever your choice, make sure to plan ahead, and book your accommodation and tours in advance, especially during the high season. With the right preparation, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable trip to Spain.
DISCOUNTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS FOR YOUR TRIP
✈️ Find the cheapest flights, train or bus tickets here.
🛏️ Get up to 15% discount on your hotel by booking here.
🏛️ Book the best tours and activities here.
🚗 Compare and rent a car at the best price here or hire your transfer here.
📖 Get your Spain travel guide here.
💚 Book your travel insurance here.
