What is the best time to visit Spain?

The best time to visit Spain is from May through September. This is when the beaches are ideal for swimming and the weather is warm for enjoying all sorts of other activities, too. Arriving during the early or later part of that time frame can mean fewer crowds and temperatures that aren’t sizzling hot. Otherwise, expect to battle the crowds, the heat, and pay the highest prices for airfare and accommodation.

Best time for good weather: If you don’t want to endure searing heat or battle the cold, plan to visit Spain from either mid-April to mid-May or during the month of October. The former brings pleasant temperatures hovering in the upper teens and low 20s with relatively little rain, while the latter averages 22°C in the afternoon and tends to be fairly dry, especially during the first half of the month.

Best time for sightseeing: If you hope to experience the sights without countless tourists in the way, avoid the summer months and holiday periods, particularly Christmas and Easter. Temperatures will be comfortable while crowds are thinner typically during the first half of March, May and around mid-September through October. When visiting popular attractions, try to go early in the morning to avoid long lines.

Best time for beaches: Those who want a beach-focused holiday in Spain will want to go when the weather is warm, and the sea temperature makes for good swimming too, which is typically anytime between May and early to mid-October. During the peak of summer, the beaches will be jam-packed. So, if you hope to enjoy them in a more tranquil state, plan your visit in May or mid-September through early October.

Best time for festivals: While there are many festivals throughout the year in Spain, you’ll have the most to choose from if you go anytime from late spring to early fall. Primavera Sound, one of the largest alternative music/indie festivals in the world, is hosted in Barcelona in late May. June brings lots of great pride events throughout the country, while July hosts the Running of the Bulls. September is the best time to come for wine harvest festivals.