Spain, with its diverse landscapes and rich culture, offers distinct climates across its regions. From scorching summers in the south to mild winters along the Mediterranean coast, here's your guide to Spain’s weather year-round, including the best times to visit and when to avoid each region.
For travelers planning a luxury tour to Spain, knowing when and where to go can make all the difference in ensuring an unforgettable trip
Spring (March to May): The Sweet Spot for Most Regions
Spring is widely regarded as one of the best times to visit Spain. From March to May, temperatures are mild, averaging between 60°F (16°C) and 75°F (24°C) across much of the country. This is an ideal time for city explorations, hiking, and enjoying outdoor festivals without the summer crowds.
It’s also an ideal season to explore the country on a Jewish heritage tour to Spain, when the weather is pleasant for visiting historic synagogues, Jewish quarters, and cultural landmarks.
Where to go: Spring is perfect for the southern cities like Seville and Granada, where the days are warm but not overwhelmingly hot. Seville’s Feria de Abril festival in April is a cultural highlight, while the Cordoba Patios Festival in May offers stunning floral displays.
Where to avoid: The Pyrenees and northern coastal regions, such as Galicia, can still be cool and rainy, so they’re best visited later in the year.
Summer (June to August): Sun-Seekers’ Paradise—But Beware the Heat
Summer is high season in Spain, with temperatures soaring, especially in the southern and central regions. In Andalusia (Seville, Córdoba), temperatures regularly exceed 100°F (38°C), making sightseeing uncomfortable.
Where to go: The Balearic Islands (Mallorca, Ibiza) and Costa Brava offer beautiful beaches, clear skies, and a more moderate climate during the summer months. Northern regions like the Basque Country and Asturias provide cooler, refreshing retreats with temperatures around 75°F (24°C).
Where to avoid: Avoid Madrid and Seville in the height of summer unless you're prepared for extreme heat. These cities can be stifling, with daytime temperatures often above 95°F (35°C).
Autumn (September to November): Mild Temperatures and Cultural Festivities
Autumn is another prime time to visit, especially in September and October when summer crowds have thinned and temperatures remain pleasant across most regions. This season is also known for its harvest festivals and vibrant foliage.
Where to go: La Rioja and other wine regions are excellent in autumn, as the grape harvest (vendimia) takes place in September. The Canary Islands, with their subtropical climate, also offer great weather year-round, making them a perfect beach destination even as autumn sets in elsewhere.
Where to avoid: While most regions are comfortable, November can bring more rainfall along the northern coast and in regions like Galicia and Cantabria, which are prone to wet conditions.
Winter (December to February): Cool Days and Fewer Crowds
Winter in Spain varies widely depending on the region. While the northern and central parts experience cold temperatures (and snow in the mountains), the southern coast and islands enjoy milder winters.
Where to go: The Canary Islands are ideal in winter, offering some of the warmest temperatures in Europe, with averages between 60°F and 70°F (16°C to 21°C). Southern cities like Malaga and Alicante along the Mediterranean coast also have pleasant winter climates, great for escaping harsher northern winters.
Where to avoid: The Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges are popular for skiing, but cities like Madrid and Burgos in the north can be cold, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. If you prefer warmer destinations, avoid these regions in winter.
Key Tips for Planning Your Trip
Best overall time to visit: For pleasant weather and fewer crowds, plan your visit for April to June or September to October. These months offer the perfect balance of sunshine, comfortable temperatures, and fewer tourists, making it ideal for both city exploration and beach relaxation.
When to avoid specific regions:
- Central Spain (Madrid, Seville, Córdoba) during the height of summer (July and August) due to extreme heat.
- Northern Spain (Galicia, Asturias) in late autumn and winter due to rain and cold.
- High-altitude areas like the Pyrenees in winter unless you're planning a ski holiday.
Spain’s diverse climate means there’s always a region that’s in its prime no matter the time of year. Whether you’re chasing the sun in the Canary Islands or exploring historical cities in spring, with a bit of planning, you can enjoy the best of what this beautiful country has to offer year-round.
