Best (and Worst) Times to Visit Spain

Spain is a country known for its vibrant culture, different intriguing landscapes, and rich history, which attracts millions of tourists every year who are looking for a perfect combination of ancient landmarks, sun-soaked beaches, and energetic festivals. 

While the country in southwestern Europe boasts a mild Mediterranean climate for the majority of the year, there might be significant variations in the weather based on the region as well as the season. 

Speaking of seasons, if you want to know which might be the worst season or worst time of the year to visit Spain, the answer would be summer. So, if you want to maximize your experience during your stay in Spain, it’s better to avoid visiting there during the summer.

Let’s look at why that’s the worst time to visit Spain and how you can ensure an amazing experience.

Worst Part of the Year to Visit Spain

The summer months of June through August comprise the worst period of the year to visit Spain. Imagine yourself braving the scorching heat of the sun as you wait in line to enter iconic landmarks like the Alhambra or the Sagrada Familia. And once you manage to get inside, you may have to fight for some space among the swarms of other tourists. 

One thing to keep in mind is that the vastness and diversity of Spain’s climates mean that the weather can be quite different from one region to another. The number of tourists visiting different parts of Spain also varies with the seasons.

There is a general trend toward higher transportation and hotel rates around this time as well. Finding a place to stay that suits your needs can be as challenging as looking for an oasis in the middle of a desert at this time of year. 

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How Does the Weather Determine the Worst Time for Visiting Spain?

If you are planning to spend most of your time in Mallorca, Ibiza, or one of the Costas, you might find it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities during the warmest months in Spain—July to August, as there is extreme heat during this period, with temperatures often exceeding 104 degrees Fahrenheit or 40 degrees Celsius.

Those who aren’t accustomed to the heat will do anything to stay inside their air-conditioned homes, as it is exhausting. Unless you’re a fan of sweltering heat, head to Spain in the spring or fall, when temperatures are milder and more pleasant. 

Why is Traveling to Spain in Summer a Bad Idea?

During the summer, businesses in Spain are usually slow, as the majority of Spaniards take a two-week vacation during August. At that time, most businesses even remain shut. As a consequence, a lot of the must-see attractions in Spain also remain closed, and the ones that remain open get filled with tourists.

The sites of public attractions, restaurants, streets, and public transport will also be overcrowded due to the high number of visitors. Since there are many people around, August is not a good time to visit Spain. 

In the height of summer, when crowds descend upon Spain’s most popular tourist destinations, including Madrid, Barcelona, and the Costa del Sol, it becomes almost impossible to enjoy everything the country has to offer. 

Due to the overwhelming number of tourists, many major sites limit access to things like hiking trails and national parks, along with popular public attractions like cathedrals and palaces. If you want to go on a hike, no matter how early you get there, you will be shocked to discover hundreds of vehicles already there, all intending to undertake the same hike. 

Spain is a country with a rich cultural heritage, and it is evident in all aspects of life there. However, when the weather gets hot in the summer and many Spaniards leave cities to avoid the heat, this tradition takes a backseat. 

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Precautions You Should Take for Summer Vacations in Spain

Many people visit Spain to experience its world-famous cuisine, vibrant culture, Mediterranean climate, well-preserved historical landmarks, and diverse architectural marvels. Going to the beach or other outdoor activities becomes really intriguing during the summer due to the hot and dry weather, so if you after all decide to visit Spain in the summer, you must take certain precautions to have a safe and comfortable vacation in Spain. Here are some measures that you can take-

Staying Hydrated

When visiting Spain in the summer, remember to drink enough water, as the temperature can easily reach 30 degrees Celsius. Make sure to stay hydrated by drinking lots of water and staying away from sugary drinks. 

Be sure to bring a refillable water bottle and seek out shade frequently if you intend to spend time outside.

Apply Sunscreen

Sunscreen is another must-have item for summertime travel in Spain. Sunscreen with a high SPF is essential for protecting skin from the intense Spanish sun. Sunscreen should be reapplied every several hours, or more frequently if you are going to swim or are sweating a lot. 

Wear Clothes that are Light and Loose-Fitting

Keep cool in the Spanish heat by wearing loose-fitting, lightweight clothes crafted from natural materials, such as cotton. In hot weather, it’s best to wear light-colored clothing that allows air to circulate rather than dark colors, which absorb heat.

Stay Away from the Sun Occasionally 

Take frequent breaks from the sun if you plan on spending time outside in Spain during the summer. Get some shade and unwind, or swim in the ocean or pool. Do not hesitate to seek refuge indoors if you feel overwhelmed by the heat.

Be Careful of Wildfires

Spain is prone to wildfires in the summer because of the dry, hot weather. It is important to keep yourself updated about current events and to stay away from regions impacted by wildfires. If you smell smoke or see fire, get out of there immediately and find a secure spot for shelter. 

You can make the most of your summer vacation in Spain by following the aforementioned recommendations and having a safe and pleasurable experience.

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When Is Spain the Most Expensive to Visit?

Travelers usually steer clear of Spain in the summer due, in part, to the high expense of lodging. Without extensive planning (months in advance), most hotels will be fully booked and extremely pricey.

Hotel rates tend to rise sharply in the summer in areas that see a large influx of tourists, such as Barcelona, Madrid, and the coastal areas. While a five-star hotel can easily cost more than 300 euros ($321) per night, a mid-range hotel would cost from 150 to 200 euros ($160 to 210).

During busy times of the year, especially in tourist hotspots, dining out at restaurants and cafés can also get really pricey. A mid-range restaurant’s dinner prices, not including drinks, can range from €15 to €30 ($16 to $32) per person.

A week in a small flat for two people will cost at least €1,025 ($1,100), so it’s not an easy task to plan a cheap vacation to Spain. The situation is similar when you try to rent a car as well. Moreover, prices tend to be even higher during the busiest time of the year, which happens to be summer. 

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Monthly Outlook for the Best Time to Visit Spain

Have a look at our monthly analysis of Spain and see which time suits you and your loved ones for a lovely vacation in Spain. 

January 

The offseason in Spain remains at its peak at the very start of the year, in January. Despite the cold weather, it’s the perfect time to visit Spain since fewer people will be there. Since fewer people are looking for a place to stay in January, hotels or other accommodation options offer reduced prices. Also, winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, as well as cozy fireside tapas in the Sierra Nevada mountains during January. 

Make the most of the quiet areas and shorter lines at famous attractions like Barcelona’s Park Guell and Granada’s Alhambra. Or, enjoy genuine local delicacies while you escape from the crowds in picturesque Andalusian whitewashed villages like Ronda or Mijas. Moreover, on January 5th every year, you’ll be able to witness the vibrant Three Kings Parade, also known as the Cabalgata de Reyes, where the Three Wise Men distribute gifts to children. 

February 

In February, the temperatures remain quite chilly in Madrid and other northern places, such as Bilbao and Galicia. Also, the carnival that marks the beginning of Lent, takes place this month. While you can witness massive celebrations regarding this in the Canary Islands and Cadiz, other spectacular parties can be found all across Spain. 

Santa Cruz de Tenerife has one of the largest and most colorful carnivals in Spain. Join in the spectacular street and costume parties that will make your stay in Spain really unforgettable. At the Zubieta Alarde, a conventional Basque Carnival celebration, you will be able to see historical reenactments and local traditions performed in a unique way. You will also be able to immerse yourself in San Sebastian’s culinary delights during the yearly Pintxos Championship, where you will get the chance to taste the popular Basque-style tapas of the region. 

March

The weather in Spain remains notoriously unpredictable during March. The breathtaking sight of blooming flowers, blossoming trees, and sporadic rain heralds the beginning of spring in the country. In this month, the Las Fallas festival, one of the most famous events in Spain, takes place in Valencia for a whole week, where you can marvel at giant papier-mâché sculptures, pyrotechnics, floats, and the customary “La Cremà” ritual. 

The Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park in Andalusia is a breathtaking place to explore in the spring, when the park is adorned with vibrant wildflowers and the weather remains perfect for hiking. You can also participate in the religious rites and processions in towns like Seville or Malaga to celebrate Easter and learn about Spanish devotion and cultural heritage.

April

Restaurant patios start to fill up with enthusiastic customers in April as Spaniards start to migrate to the shore and get excited to enjoy the season’s first warm evenings to the fullest while they eat outside. Mountain biking, rock climbing, quad adventures, and helicopter trips are some of the most popular activities this month due to the comfortable weather and beautiful skies.

You can visit Costa Brava in April to enjoy the stunning beaches and quaint seaside villages before the summer crowds hit. The weather also remains perfect for hiking, wildlife viewing, and beautiful drives in northern Spain’s Picos de Europa National Park, where you can find breathtaking landmarks. Meanwhile, you can try attending Spain’s world-famous Feria de Sevilla fair, where you will get an unforgettable cultural experience with flamenco music, traditional costumes, and mouthwatering cuisine.

May

May has the most incredible weather. Days will be pleasant and sunny with warmer evenings, which is perfect for strolls in the city or along the beach. Bull-fighting season also starts during this month, which is perhaps the most popular event of this month in Spain. 

Explore Cordoba’s ancient city during the Festival of the Patios, when people showcase their magnificently decorated courtyards to the public, presenting lively flowers and classic architecture. In the Rioja area, you will be able to partake in the Wine Battle of Haro, a fun celebration of the area’s famous vineyards in which participants douse each other in red wine. Also, try experiencing the electrifying flamenco and equestrian acts at the Feria de Jerez in Jerez de la Frontera. This world-famous fair also has traditional music and dance performances.

June-July

The temperature in June ranges typically from 77–90 degrees Fahrenheit in Spain. During this month, museums, churches, and even the beach will experience a surge in tourists. It will be wise to make your reservations ahead of time before the prices skyrocket during the peak season. 

In July, visitors who enjoy eating tapas invade the entire nation from the northernmost to the southernmost tip. This is also the warmest time of the year. People living in more interior communities frequently travel to the coast searching for cooler weather and more picturesque views, as the daily temperature can reach 80 to 100 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The advice here will be to avoid traveling to Spain during these months, as they are widely regarded as the worst time to visit the country. 

August-September

Due to the intense heat and dryness, the coasts and islands of Spain are usually busier in August than the cities of mainland Spain like Madrid, Seville, or Granada. The most popular festival that takes place this month is La Tomatina, which is a huge brawl of people that use only tomatoes to fight. If you decide to visit Spain around this time, mark your dates for August’s last Wednesday to join this yearly festival in Bunol. 

In addition, September is the harvest season for some of Spain’s best wines, so it’s a fantastic time to tour the vineyards in the country and taste the latest vintage. You can also join the San Sebastian Film Festival this month to see an amazing selection of films, meet celebrities, and take in the breathtaking scenery of the Basque region. 

October

It’s best to visit Madrid and Salamanca, two towns in the interior of Spain, during this month as the temperatures remain more pleasant than both in the summer and winter. October is also a fantastic time for hiking since the trails remain adorned with colorful autumn foliage. Seville hosts the Bienal de Flamenco in October, which is Spain’s largest flamenco festival. 

In this month, you can also immerse yourself in the vibrant renaissance atmosphere of Alcala de Henares during the Semana Cervantes festival. October also presents an opportunity to go on a scenic road trip through the breathtaking landscapes of the coast villages in the Basque region, such as Lekeitio or Getaria, and enjoy the popular seafood delicacy of this region. 

November through December

By November, the air gets cold and silent in Spain. This month, thousands of people travel from all over the world to attend the Madrid Jazz Festival and the International Sherry Festival in Jerez. Madrid also holds its wonderful Fiesta de La Almudena every November.

December weather in Spain can change drastically from one part of the country to another. Christmas is celebrated all around the country in December. Imagine a world filled with happy and joyous people, vibrant lights, and celebrations, and you can find that in December’s Spain. You can discover traditional delicacies, one-of-a-kind crafts, and festive decorations at the lively Christmas markets in cities like Madrid and Barcelona. You can enjoy Catalonia’s stunning Christmas customs while visiting in December, such as the world-famous Catalonia Christmas log (Caga Tió) and the nativity scenes that come to life in different villages and towns. 

Puerta del Sol in Madrid is another destination where you can celebrate New Year’s Eve to the fullest. In celebration of the new year, thousands of people get together to take part in the customary twelve grapes at midnight, followed by fireworks and other celebrations. 

Final Words

To sum things up, it’s for the best if you don’t visit Spain during the summer. It’s particularly crucial if you intend to spend a lot of time outside or go to popular tourist spots, as the heat is usually extreme during this period. Conversely, the best time to visit Spain is in the spring and fall, when the weather is milder and more pleasant, the temperature is more comfortable, and there are fewer tourists around. 

Moreover, those looking forward to immersing themselves in Spanish culture can research local traditions like siestas and tapas culture. With careful planning and thought, you can make your trip to Spain an unforgettable adventure for yourself. Make sure to take all the important factors into account and plan the ideal vacation to Spain if you want to enjoy this diverse and stunning country to the fullest.