Best time to visit Spain

The best time to visit Spain is between May and October. This period offers the most sunshine, the least rain, and wonderfully warm temperatures ideal for enjoying the country's famous coastline and vibrant cities. For milder weather perfect for sightseeing, consider the shoulder months of May, June, September and October.

Spain in spring: 11-19°C, mild and getting warmer

Spring sees Spain burst into life as temperatures climb and the days get longer. From March to May, you can expect pleasant, mild conditions that are perfect for exploring cities like Barcelona or Madrid on foot. While there's still a chance of a shower, especially in March, May is significantly drier and warmer, with average highs reaching a very pleasant 22°C.

Spain in summer: 19-28°C, hot days and long evenings

Summer is peak season for holidays in Spain, delivering hot, dry weather and an average of 10 hours of sunshine a day. July is the hottest, driest, and sunniest month of the year, with temperatures regularly hitting 29°C or higher, especially in the south. It's the ideal time for a classic beach holiday on the Costa del Sol or the Balearic Islands, with long, warm evenings for al fresco dining.

Spain in autumn: 15-22°C, warm and pleasant with a chance of rain

Autumn is a fantastic time to visit, as the intense heat of summer subsides but the weather remains warm and the sea is still pleasant for swimming. September and October offer beautiful days with average highs in the low-to-mid 20s. Rainfall increases as the season progresses, with November being the wettest month of the year on average, but you'll still enjoy plenty of bright, sunny spells.

Spain in winter: 8-15°C, cool but often sunny

Spanish winters are mild compared to much of northern Europe, especially in the south and the Canary Islands. While January is the coolest month, with average highs of 14°C, you can still expect around 7 hours of sunshine a day. It's a great time for a quiet city break without the crowds, though you'll need to pack a jacket for the cooler evenings.

Average weather in Spain by month

On average, Spain's warmest month is July, its coolest is January, and its wettest is November. The figures in the table are an average across the country's many diverse regions. For instance, the Canary Islands, such as Fuerteventura, are significantly warmer year-round, while mountainous areas like the Pyrenees are much cooler.

Best time to visit Spain for beach holidays

For a classic sun, sea, and sand holiday, the best time to visit Spain is from June to September. During these months, you're almost guaranteed hot, sunny weather with very little rain. July and August are the hottest months, with average highs of 29°C and up to 10 hours of sunshine a day, making them perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Best time to visit Spain for sightseeing and city breaks

The best times for city breaks and cultural sightseeing are during spring and autumn. The months of April, May, September, and October offer the perfect balance of warm, sunny days and comfortable temperatures, with highs typically between 19°C and 23°C. This milder weather is ideal for walking around cities like Granada or Seville without the intense heat of mid-summer.

Best time to visit Spain for hiking and outdoor activities

If you're planning to explore Spain's beautiful landscapes on foot, aim for the months of May and June in late spring, or September in early autumn. These months provide pleasant, warm weather that's not too hot for physical activity, combined with long daylight hours and lower rainfall. It's a great time to discover the coastal paths of the Costa Brava or the striking scenery of the country's national parks.