Things to Do in Spain in May

May Weather in Spain

26°C (79°F) High Temp

15°C (59°F) Low Temp

47mm (1.9 inches) Rainfall

65% Humidity

Is May Right for You?

Advantages

Peak wildflower season transforms landscapes - Spanish countryside explodes with poppies, lavender, and sunflowers, especially in Andalusia and Castilla-La Mancha
Ideal hiking temperatures of 18-24°C (64-75°F) in mountains and national parks before summer heat makes trails unbearable
Pre-summer pricing saves 25-40% on accommodations compared to June-August rates, with fewer crowds at major attractions
Perfect weather for outdoor dining - terrace season begins with comfortable evenings averaging 20°C (68°F) after 7pm

Considerations

Unpredictable spring showers can disrupt outdoor plans - rain occurs 7 days on average with little warning
Beach weather is inconsistent - coastal temperatures reach only 22°C (72°F) and sea temperature is cool at 18°C (64°F)
Some mountain routes and high-altitude attractions may still have snow closures above 1,500m (4,921 ft)

Best Activities in May

Camino de Santiago Hiking Sections

May offers perfect hiking conditions with mild temperatures 16-22°C (61-72°F), wildflowers in bloom, and manageable crowds. The French Way sections are particularly stunning with spring landscapes. Morning starts at 7am avoid afternoon heat buildup.

Booking Tip: Book albergues 1-2 weeks ahead for popular sections. Costs typically €10-25 per night. Look for Xunta-certified accommodations. See current guided section tours in the booking widget below.

Andalusian White Villages Tours

Spring brings perfect weather for exploring pueblos blancos like Ronda, Grazalema, and Zahara. Temperatures stay comfortable 20-25°C (68-77°F) for walking cobblestone streets, and surrounding countryside is green and blooming before summer drought.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours typically cost €45-75 including transport. Book 3-5 days ahead through licensed operators. Private car rentals cost €25-40/day. Check current tour options in booking section below.

Picos de Europa Mountain Adventures

May is prime season for Spain's most dramatic mountain range. Snow melts reveal hiking trails, cable cars resume full operation, and wildlife is active. Perfect 15-20°C (59-68°F) temperatures at lower elevations, though pack layers for altitude changes.

Booking Tip: Guided hiking tours cost €35-60 per day. Cable car tickets €17 adults. Book accommodation in Cangas de Onís or Potes 2 weeks ahead. See current mountain tour options in booking widget below.

Toledo and Segovia Day Trips

Spring weather makes these UNESCO cities perfect for walking tours. Comfortable 22-26°C (72-79°F) temperatures ideal for exploring medieval streets and outdoor monuments. Morning light enhances photography of historic architecture.

Booking Tip: Day tours from Madrid typically cost €50-85 with transport and guide. High-speed train tickets €12-25 each way. Book tours 1 week ahead. Current tour options available in booking section below.

Valencia Paella and Market Experiences

May celebrates asparagus and artichoke season - key paella ingredients at their peak. Comfortable temperatures 24-26°C (75-79°F) perfect for outdoor cooking classes and market tours. Less crowded than summer months.

Booking Tip: Cooking classes typically cost €45-75 including meal. Market tours €25-40. Book 3-7 days ahead through certified culinary operators. See current cooking experiences in booking widget below.

Basque Country Pintxos and Culture Tours

Perfect spring weather 18-22°C (64-72°F) for bar hopping and coastal walks. May brings fresh seafood season and fewer tourists in San Sebastian and Bilbao. Ideal for combining Guggenheim visits with outdoor market exploring.

Booking Tip: Pintxos tours cost €35-55 per person. Guggenheim tickets €16 advance booking recommended. Food tours book up 1-2 weeks ahead. Check current Basque tour options in booking section below.

May Events & Festivals

Early May

Feria de Abril Spillover Celebrations

While Seville's main fair ends in late April, many Andalusian towns hold their own ferias throughout May with flamenco, traditional dress, and casetas (decorated booths)

Early to Mid May

Córdoba Patios Festival

UNESCO-recognized festival where private courtyards open to public, displaying elaborate flower arrangements and traditional Andalusian architecture

Late May

Madrid Book Fair

Massive outdoor book market in Retiro Park featuring Spanish and international authors, literary events, and cultural activities

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - spring showers are brief but frequent, occurring 7 days on average

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even with mild temperatures, especially at altitude and near water

Layering pieces for 11°C (20°F) temperature swings between morning and afternoon

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - cobblestone streets can be slippery when wet

Light sweater or cardigan for evenings - temperatures drop to 15°C (59°F) after sunset

Breathable cotton or linen shirts - avoid synthetic fabrics in 65% humidity

Long pants for church visits and upscale restaurants - shorts not accepted at many venues

Packable day pack for hiking and day trips - many activities require carrying water and layers

Power adapter with USB ports - European Type C plugs, and portable charger for long sightseeing days

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations before May 1 Labor Day weekend - Spanish families travel domestically creating unexpected demand spikes in smaller cities

Restaurant lunch hours shift to 2-4pm in May as daylight extends - many kitchens close completely between 4-8pm

Municipal pools and beach facilities don't fully open until June 1 - many coastal amenities operate reduced hours or remain closed

Wildflower photography is best early morning 7-9am when light is soft and flowers are dew-covered, especially in Extremadura and Castilla-La Mancha

Avoid These Mistakes

Packing only summer clothes - May evenings require layers and nights can drop to 15°C (59°F)

Not checking museum hours - many major museums have extended spring hours starting May 1 but some smaller sites maintain winter schedules

Booking beach accommodations expecting swimming weather - sea temperature is only 18°C (64°F) and beach crowds won't build until June