When and Where to Go in Spain

Best Times to Visit Spain

Finding the best time to visit involves balancing climate constraints with crowd levels and the most attractive prices, both on-site and for travel.

Climatically, for most of Spain, spring and autumn are excellent times to visit—if only to avoid the locally scorching summer months and, above all, the overwhelming crowds of July and August, along with the corresponding prices in many places. After all, it’s primarily the tourist pressure on the coast and in inland hotspots that determines whether a stay is worthwhile at certain times. Don’t forget that while summer is peak season, Holy Week (Semana Santa) before Easter also draws large crowds.

In short, considering these factors, April–May and mid-September to October are good times, though of course the country’s size and varied attractions call for some nuance. For those seeking winter warmth and sunshine without the crowds, the southern and southeastern coasts are relatively pleasant in winter as well.

★★★: very favorable | ★★: favorable | ★: moderately favorable | ⊘: unfavorable.

Where to Go by Travel Type and Interest