Best Time of Year to Travel to Spain
Spain is a year-round destination, but the best time to go to Spain for most travelers is during the spring and fall shoulder season. In these months, you’ll enjoy pleasant weather, thinner crowds, and more affordable prices – all while still catching plenty of cultural events and festivities. In this friendly travel guide, we’ll explore shoulder season in Spain (spring and fall), highlight key cities like Madrid and Barcelona, give monthly weather breakdowns for April, May, September, and October, and offer tips on what to pack. Let’s find out when and why you should plan that Spanish getaway!
Cheapest Months to Travel to Spain
Why Spring and Fall Are the Best Time to Go (Shoulder Season in Spain)
Shoulder season – typically March through May and September through October – is often considered the best time of year to travel to Spain (travelandleisure.com). Here’s why spring and fall in Spain are ideal:
Why shoulder season works in Spain
- Mild, Comfortable Weather: You avoid the extreme heat of summer and the chill of winter. Spring and autumn offer a perfect mix of warm days and cool nights (ricksteves.com), making sightseeing and outdoor activities enjoyable. Spain’s shoulder seasons usually see daytime temperatures between about 11°C and 27°C (52–81°F) (mappingspain.com, jetsetteralerts.com), depending on region – warm but not too hot.
- Fewer Crowds: Summer is high season in Spain, when popular cities and beaches overflow with tourists. In shoulder season, you’ll find lighter crowds and shorter lines at major attractions (ricksteves.com).
- Better Deals: With lower demand than summer, flights and accommodation are often cheaper in shoulder months. Spain’s cheapest time to travel is actually the winter off-season (December through February) when prices hit rock bottom (travelandleisure.com). Fall often edges spring for savings (fewer big holidays like Easter) — sometimes even snag a luxury deal (travelandleisure.com).
- Plenty of Events & Festivals: Traveling off-peak doesn’t mean missing out on culture. Spring and fall are packed with festivals (ricksteves.com) — from flower fairs and music festivals to arts events and wine harvest celebrations.
By timing your trip for Spain’s beautifully temperate spring or early autumn, you’ll hit the sweet spot of good weather, fewer crowds, and reasonable prices (travelandleisure.com). In contrast, the peak summer months (June–August) bring scorching temperatures (often 35–40°C / 95–104°F in parts of Spain — travelandleisure.com) along with the biggest tourist swarms and highest costs. And while winter (November–February) is the cheapest time to travel to Spain (travelandleisure.com), it comes with cooler weather and shorter days. That’s why spring and fall – the shoulder seasons – hit the “just right” Goldilocks zone for most travelers.
Spring in Spain (April & May)
Spain in spring is a delight. After the cooler, rainier winter months, April and May bring warmer temperatures, blooming landscapes, and a lively lineup of events. Weather in Spain in April and May is generally mild to pleasantly warm, though it can vary by region:
Weather in Spain in April
April marks the true start of spring weather. Expect mild days and cool nights. For example, Madrid in April has average highs around 17°C (63°F) and lows around 7°C (45°F), so you’ll want a light jacket after sunset. Barcelona enjoys slightly warmer April days, around 18°C (64°F) with lows about 10°C (50°F). Rainfall is moderate – a few spring showers are possible, so it’s smart to pack an umbrella or light raincoat. Overall, Spain’s April weather is comfortable for sightseeing.
Weather in Spain in May
By May, temperatures climb a bit further. Madrid average highs reach about 21°C (70°F), with lows around 11°C (52°F). Barcelona warms to about 22°C (72°F) / 14°C (57°F). It’s generally sunny, though early May can still have the tail end of spring showers — a fantastic time for outdoor activities without the blistering heat of later summer.
What’s happening in spring
- Sant Jordi’s Day (Apr 23, Barcelona) — book and flower stalls as couples exchange books and roses (spain.info).
- Semana Santa / Holy Week (late Mar/Apr) — elaborate religious processions, especially in Seville and Málaga (ricksteves.com).
- Seville’s Feria de Abril (late Apr / sometimes into May) — flamenco, horse parades, and all-night festivities (ricksteves.com).
- San Isidro (Madrid) (~May 15) — open-air concerts, traditional dancing, street food, and citywide celebrations (travelandleisure.com).
- Primavera Sound (late May / early Jun, Barcelona) — one of Europe’s top music festivals; plus Córdoba’s Patios Festival in May.
Why spring is ideal
- Longer daylight, comfortable temps, and authentic local festivals.
- Thinner crowds vs summer — Alhambra/Camino are easier to enjoy in April/May.
- Prices generally lower than peak summer (can tick up around Easter) (jetsetteralerts.com; travelandleisure.com).
Fall in Spain (September & October)
Weather in Spain in September
Early fall still feels like summer — especially in the first half. Madrid averages around 28°C (82°F) high / 15°C (59°F) low; Barcelona ~27°C (81°F) / 19°C (66°F). Typically dry and sunny, with warm sea temperatures for beach time. Late September moderates to very pleasant mid-20s °C.
Weather in Spain in October
True autumn arrives but stays mild. Madrid ~20°C (68°F) days / ~10°C (50°F) nights; Barcelona ~23°C (73°F) / ~15°C (59°F). Occasional showers, plenty of sunny days; the south (Andalusia) remains warm (mid-20s °C). Northern forests and vineyards show autumn colour — overall comfortable for cities and hiking (goaskalocal.com).
What’s happening in fall
- La Mercè (Barcelona) — late Sep, a week of free concerts, parades, castellers, correfoc, and fireworks.
- DCODE (Madrid) — early Sep, one-day indie/rock festival.
- Festival de Otoño (Madrid) — Oct (often into Nov): international theatre, dance, music, and opera (travelandleisure.com).
- Sitges Film Festival — early/mid Oct near Barcelona: renowned fantasy/horror fest.
- Harvest season — Sep/Oct in La Rioja & Penedès: wine fairs and vendimia (travelandleisure.com). Zaragoza hosts Fiestas del Pilar around Oct 12.
Why fall is ideal
- Notably thinner crowds vs summer; easier bookings and better prices.
- Warm seas for early September; comfortable city temps by October.
- Autumn is often more affordable than spring (fewer international holidays) (travelandleisure.com).
- Vibrant local vibe as cultural seasons restart after August.
Best Time to Go to Madrid
Madrid, Spain’s capital, is a vibrant city year-round, but the best time to go is undoubtedly spring or fall. Being inland, Madrid experiences extremes – very hot summers and chilly winters – so the milder months are ideal for enjoying the city.
Why spring/fall for Madrid
In spring (April–May) and fall (Sept–Oct), Madrid’s weather is most pleasant – sunny days in the high teens to mid-20s °C (60s–70s °F) and cool nights perfect for tapas bar hopping. Summer (Jul–Aug) is often 35–40°C (95–104°F), dry, and quieter locally — some small shops close or break for long siestas (ricksteves.com). Winter nights can dip near freezing; it’s cheaper but brisk.
Highlights in spring
San Isidro (mid-May) transforms the city with free concerts, dances, and food fairs (travelandleisure.com). Late spring brings the Madrid Book Fair in Retiro Park and great open-air events — perfect terrace weather and day trips to Toledo/Segovia.
Highlights in fall
September is warm and kicks culture back into gear after August (DCODE early Sep). October’s Festival de Otoño (Oct–Nov) spans theatre, dance, opera, and concerts (travelandleisure.com). Autumn also means shorter museum lines and seasonal food (roasted chestnuts, hearty stews).
Cost & crowds
Spring/fall bring moderate crowds; prices spike in summer and around big events. Autumn often has a slight edge on price (fewer travellers in Oct than May) (travelandleisure.com). Flights also dip outside June–August. Bottom line: aim for Apr, May, Sep or Oct for the best balance (travelandleisure.com).
Best Time to Go to Barcelona
Barcelona’s Mediterranean climate means milder winters and long, hot summers. For a balanced experience of culture, sights, and pleasant weather, spring and fall are best.
Why avoid peak summer
June–August is extremely crowded; beaches, Las Ramblas, and Gaudí landmarks are packed and prices soar. Weather is hot and humid (avg highs ~28–30°C in August), and the city can feel muggy.
Why spring/fall for Barcelona
May brings warm ~22°C days and ~14°C nights; September remains beach-friendly (mid-20s °C, warm sea), while October is ideal for urban exploring (~23°C/15°C, light jacket at night). Shoulder months mean far fewer tourists, easier reservations, and less queueing for Sagrada Família/Park Güell.
Events in spring
- Sant Jordi (Apr 23) — city-wide book & rose celebration (spain.info).
- Primavera Sound (late May/early Jun) — globally renowned music fest (travelandleisure.com).
- Sónar (June) — electronic music & digital arts festival.
- Girona Temps de Flors (late May) — spectacular floral displays (easy day trip).
Events in fall
- La Mercè (late Sep) — Barcelona’s biggest street festival.
- Sitges Film Festival (early–mid Oct) — acclaimed fantasy/horror cinema.
- Penedès vendimia (Sep/Oct) — cava harvest and wine events (travelandleisure.com).
Cost & practicalities
Hotels/flights drop vs summer. Late spring can still be busy, but April–May and Sept–Oct are reliably better for prices and ease. Locals’ August closures ease in fall, so the city feels more “normal.”
Bottom line: Visit in April, May, September, or October for the best mix of nice weather, manageable crowds, and cultural events.
What to Pack for Spain’s Shoulder Seasons
Layers are key
Bring clothing you can layer. Daytime tees/light long sleeves with jeans or medium-weight trousers; cool mornings/evenings (often <10°C in Apr/Oct) call for a light sweater or jacket.
Comfortable walking shoes
You’ll walk a lot on cobbles and in parks. Trainers or comfy shoes for spring; sandals can work in early fall days, but have closed shoes for cooler nights. Lightweight hikers help for rural/hilly plans.
Rain protection
Pack a compact umbrella or light rain jacket (especially April). A scarf/pashmina is handy for wind/drizzle and style.
Sun gear
Sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat — UV can be strong outside summer, especially at the beach or hiking.
Beach/swimwear (if applicable)
For coast/islands in May or September, bring swimwear, flip-flops, and a foldable tote.
Evening attire
Locals dress a touch smart at night: pack one smart-casual outfit (blouse/button-down, nicer trousers/skirt; light blazer/jacket).
Miscellaneous
EU Type F adapter, daypack, reusable water bottle (tap water widely drinkable). For late Sep/Oct up north or in mountains, add a warmer sweater or lightweight coat.
In summary: versatile layers, comfy shoes, a bit of rain and sun prep — ready for sunny café afternoons and cool, breezy evenings.
Shoulder Season Cheat Sheet (Key Months)
| Month | Madrid Avg | Barcelona Avg | Rain | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| April | 17 °C / 7 °C | 18 °C / 10 °C | Occasional | Moderate | Spring blooms; pack a light jacket |
| May | 21 °C / 11 °C | 22 °C / 14 °C | Lower than Apr | Moderate | Sunny, lively; terrace season |
| September | 28 °C / 15 °C | 27 °C / 19 °C | Generally dry | Lower than summer | Warm sea; summer-like early month |
| October | 20 °C / 10 °C | 23 °C / 15 °C | Occasional | Moderate–Low | Mild days, crisp nights; great for cities |
FAQs
When is the best time of year to travel to Spain?
For most travelers, the best time to visit Spain is during the shoulder seasons in spring and fall. Specifically, late April through May or September through October offer an ideal balance of pleasant weather, fewer tourists, and moderate prices (travelandleisure.com). In these months, you’ll enjoy warm (but not too hot) days and cool nights, perfect for sightseeing or hitting the beach. There are also many local festivals in spring and fall. Peak summer (June–August) is extremely hot and crowded, while winter is cheap but cooler and quieter.
What is the shoulder season in Spain?
“Shoulder season” in Spain refers to the periods between the high and low tourist seasons – essentially spring and fall. Generally, the shoulder months are March, April, May (spring) and September, October (fall) (travelandleisure.com). During these times, Spain sees fewer visitors than summer, and travel costs are often lower. Weather is mild and comfortable, letting you experience Spain more like a local — with plenty still going on (ricksteves.com).
When is the cheapest time to travel to Spain?
The absolute cheapest time is usually winter off-season, roughly late November through February (excluding holidays) (travelandleisure.com). Late autumn (November) before Christmas can also be good (jetsetteralerts.com). For a balance of savings and decent weather, consider early fall (October) — prices drop after summer while weather remains pleasant (travelandleisure.com).
What is the weather like in Spain in April?
Generally mild and variable: many regions see 15–20°C (59–68°F) daytime. Madrid ~17/7°C, Barcelona ~18/10°C. Some spring showers, so pack a light jacket and umbrella. The south (e.g., Seville) can reach low-20s °C.
What is the weather like in Spain in May?
Warm and generally sunny. Madrid ~21/11°C; Barcelona ~22/14°C. Rain decreases vs April. Andalusia may see 25–30°C on warmer days; coasts/islands sit mid-20s °C and are great for early beach outings.
What is the weather like in Spain in September?
Warm and summery, easing toward autumn. Early month can feel like August. Madrid starts ~28/15°C; Barcelona ~27/19°C. Generally dry; the Mediterranean is at its warmest.
What is the weather like in Spain in October?
True autumn but mild: Madrid ~20/10°C; Barcelona ~23/15°C. Occasional showers, many sunny days. Southern Spain often mid-20s °C in early Oct; cooler/wetter up north.
Is April or October a good time to visit Spain for festivals and things to do?
Yes! April brings Semana Santa (varies by year) and Seville’s Feria de Abril (ricksteves.com), plus Sant Jordi in Barcelona (spain.info). October features Barcelona’s Sitges Film Festival and Madrid’s Festival de Otoño (travelandleisure.com), alongside many regional harvest/food events. Oct 12 is Spain’s National Day with a big Madrid parade.