Spain - When to Visit

When to Visit Spain

Climate guide & best times to travel

Monthly Climate Data for Spain Average temperature and rainfall by month Climate Overview -3°C 7°C 18°C 28°C 39°C Rainfall (mm) 0 5 10 Jan Jan: 11.0°C high, 2.0°C low, 3mm rain Feb Feb: 14.0°C high, 3.0°C low Mar Mar: 15.0°C high, 5.0°C low, 3mm rain Apr Apr: 19.0°C high, 7.0°C low, 3mm rain May May: 24.0°C high, 11.0°C low, 3mm rain Jun Jun: 29.0°C high, 16.0°C low Jul Jul: 34.0°C high, 19.0°C low Aug Aug: 33.0°C high, 20.0°C low Sep Sep: 27.0°C high, 15.0°C low, 3mm rain Oct Oct: 22.0°C high, 11.0°C low, 3mm rain Nov Nov: 15.0°C high, 6.0°C low, 3mm rain Dec Dec: 12.0°C high, 3.0°C low, 3mm rain Temperature Rainfall
Based on the climate data, this appears to be central Spain – likely Madrid or a similar inland location – which experiences a continental Mediterranean climate with quite dramatic seasonal swings. You're looking at cold winters where temperatures can drop to 2-3°C, and genuinely hot summers peaking at 34°C in July. The region is remarkably dry year-round, with minimal rainfall in any month (rarely exceeding 0.1 inches), which is actually pretty unusual even for Spain. This lack of rain means you won't need to worry much about wet weather disrupting your plans, though it does contribute to that characteristically arid landscape. The seasons are quite distinct here. Spring (March-May) sees a pleasant warming trend, summer (June-August) gets properly hot with those mid-30s temperatures, autumn (September-November) offers a gentle cooldown, and winter (December-February) can be surprisingly chilly for Spain. The humidity holds steady around 70% throughout the year, which might feel a bit muggy in summer but helps moderate the winter cold somewhat. Worth noting that these inland temperatures differ significantly from coastal Spain – you won't get the Mediterranean sea breezes to cool things down in summer or warm them up in winter.

Best Time to Visit

Beach & Relaxation
June through September offer the warmest weather (27-33°C), though keep in mind this data suggests an inland location where beaches aren't the main draw – coastal areas will have their own microclimates.
Cultural Exploration
April-May and September-October are ideal, with comfortable temperatures (19-24°C) that won't leave you exhausted trudging between museums and monuments, plus you'll avoid the peak summer tourist crowds.
Adventure & Hiking
March through May and September through October offer the sweet spot – warm enough to be pleasant (15-27°C) but not the scorching heat of summer that makes strenuous activity genuinely uncomfortable.
Budget Travel
November through February will get you the best deals on accommodation and flights, though you'll need to pack for cold weather (temperatures can drop to 2-3°C) and some attractions may have reduced hours.

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What to Pack

Year-Round Essentials

Comfortable walking shoes
Spanish cities involve a lot of walking on cobblestones and pavements, and your feet will thank you for prioritizing comfort over style.
Refillable water bottle
The dry climate and minimal rainfall mean you'll need to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months.
Sunglasses
With minimal cloud cover year-round, the sun can be quite intense even in winter months.
Day pack or crossbody bag
Essential for carrying water, layers, and purchases while keeping your hands free and belongings secure.
Travel adapter (Type C/F)
Spain uses European-style plugs, and you'll need one for all your devices.
Sunscreen
The strong sun and high UV levels require protection even on cooler days, particularly if you're out sightseeing all day.

Spring (Mar-May)

Clothing
Light long-sleeved shirts, Comfortable trousers or jeans, Light sweater or cardigan, T-shirts for warmer days
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes or trainers with good support
Accessories
Light scarf for cooler mornings, Sunhat for increasing sun exposure
Layering Tip
Spring weather can be unpredictable, so bring pieces you can easily add or remove as the day warms up from cool mornings to pleasant afternoons.

Summer (Jun-Aug)

Clothing
Lightweight, breathable fabrics, Shorts and short-sleeved shirts, Sundresses or light trousers, Light evening layer for air-conditioned spaces
Footwear
Breathable walking shoes or quality sandals with good support
Accessories
Wide-brimmed sun hat, Sunglasses with UV protection, Light scarf for sun protection
Layering Tip
Minimal layering needed – focus on lightweight, moisture-wicking fabrics that'll keep you cool in the intense heat, though bring one light layer for over-air-conditioned restaurants.

Autumn (Sep-Nov)

Clothing
Long-sleeved shirts, Light jacket or blazer, Jeans or trousers, Layers for temperature fluctuations
Footwear
Closed-toe walking shoes as temperatures drop
Accessories
Medium-weight scarf, Light gloves for November
Layering Tip
Early autumn stays quite warm, but by November you'll need proper layering as temperatures drop – think transitional pieces that work together.

Winter (Dec-Feb)

Clothing
Warm coat or jacket, Sweaters and long-sleeved shirts, Thermal underlayers, Jeans or warm trousers
Footwear
Warm, waterproof walking shoes or boots
Accessories
Warm scarf, Gloves, Beanie or warm hat
Layering Tip
Proper winter layering is essential – the cold is dry rather than damp, but temperatures regularly drop near freezing at night, so don't underestimate it.
Plug Type
Type C and Type F (European two-pin plugs)
Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Adapter Note
US, UK, and most non-European travelers will need an adapter; consider a universal adapter if visiting multiple countries.

Skip These Items

Heavy rain gear or umbrella (rainfall is minimal year-round) Excessive formal wear (Spanish style tends toward smart-casual rather than formal) Too many shoes (you'll mainly need one comfortable walking pair and perhaps one smarter option) Hair dryer (most accommodations provide them) Beach towels (hotels provide them, and they take up valuable luggage space)

Month-by-Month Guide

January

January is the coldest month, with daytime highs around 11°C that feel even chillier in the shade. Nights drop to 2°C, so you'll definitely need proper winter layers. The minimal rainfall and crisp air make for clear days, though the cold can be biting when the wind picks up.

11°C (52°F) High
2°C (36°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

February

February starts to show the first hints of warming, with highs reaching 14°C, though nights remain quite cold at 3°C. It's still winter weather by any measure, but you might catch some genuinely pleasant afternoons when the sun's out. The dry conditions continue, making it easy to plan outdoor activities without rain worries.

14°C (57°F) High
3°C (37°F) Low
0mm (0.0in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

March

Spring begins to arrive in March, though temperatures remain moderate with 15°C highs and 5°C lows. You'll likely still need a jacket in the mornings and evenings, but the middle of the day becomes quite pleasant. This is when locals start spending more time outdoors, and the city shakes off its winter quietness.

15°C (59°F) High
5°C (41°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

April

April brings genuinely lovely weather with 19°C days and 7°C nights – the kind of temperatures that make sightseeing a pleasure rather than an endurance test. The warming trend is noticeable now, and you'll see outdoor cafés filling up. Rain remains minimal, so you can plan with confidence.

19°C (66°F) High
7°C (45°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

May

May hits that sweet spot with 24°C highs and 11°C lows – warm enough for light clothing during the day but still comfortable for walking around. This is peak spring weather before the summer heat arrives. Tourist numbers start picking up as Europeans take advantage of the pleasant conditions.

24°C (75°F) High
11°C (52°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

June

Summer arrives in earnest with temperatures jumping to 29°C and nights staying warm at 16°C. The heat is noticeable but not yet oppressive, and the long daylight hours mean you can pack a lot into each day. This is when locals start adjusting to a summer schedule with longer lunch breaks.

29°C (84°F) High
16°C (61°F) Low
0mm (0.0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

July

July brings the year's hottest temperatures at 34°C – the kind of heat where you'll want to follow the Spanish tradition of avoiding midday sun. Nights at 19°C offer some relief but stay quite warm. The city can feel a bit empty as locals head to the coast, though tourist numbers remain high.

34°C (93°F) High
19°C (66°F) Low
0mm (0.0in) Rainfall
High Crowds
View Details →

August

August matches July's intensity with 33°C days and 20°C nights – this is peak summer heat. Many local businesses close for vacation, giving the city a different character. If you're not a fan of hot weather, this might not be your month, though air-conditioned museums offer welcome respite.

33°C (91°F) High
20°C (68°F) Low
0mm (0.0in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

September

September brings relief from the summer peak, with temperatures settling to a very pleasant 27°C and 15°C. The heat is still present but much more manageable, and the city comes back to life as locals return from vacation. This is actually one of the best months to visit – still warm but not overwhelming.

27°C (81°F) High
15°C (59°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

October

October offers lovely autumn weather with 22°C days and 11°C nights – perfect for exploring without breaking a sweat. You'll notice the days getting shorter, and there's a crispness to the morning air. This is shoulder season, so you'll find fewer crowds and reasonable prices.

22°C (72°F) High
11°C (52°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

November

November marks the transition to winter with temperatures dropping to 15°C highs and 6°C lows. You'll definitely need layers now, especially in the mornings and evenings. The tourist season winds down significantly, which means better deals but also shorter opening hours at some attractions.

15°C (59°F) High
6°C (43°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Low Crowds
View Details →

December

December brings winter proper, with 12°C highs and 3°C lows that feel quite cold, especially in the wind. The festive season adds charm with Christmas markets and decorations, though you'll need to bundle up to enjoy them. The minimal rainfall means you're unlikely to deal with wet, miserable weather at least.

12°C (54°F) High
3°C (37°F) Low
2.5mm (0.1in) Rainfall
Medium Crowds
View Details →

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