Spain is one of the most popular and largest countries in Europe. Its beautiful environment and unique culture make the country attractive to tourists and regular visitors. So when is the best time to go to Spain?

The best time to go to Spain is during the Spring season, from March to May, or the Fall season, from September to November. Visiting the country during these periods allows you to enjoy its full offerings. You also get to take advantage of the relatively low prices in accommodation and pleasant climate.

Spain embodies a nation with a beautiful historical background filled with an amazing culture and delectable traditional dishes. The nation is the perfect location for a getaway experience, each month offering various unique activities and events. Read on to discover the best time to visit Spain and explore the exotic offerings the country has in store.

When Should You Not Visit Spain?

The summer month from June to August is often the worst time to go to Spain. These periods are typically the hottest months of the year. During the summer months, the temperature in Spain often rises as high as 104 degrees F.

The country regularly hosts as many as 75 million tourists annually, with about 70% visiting during the summer months. As a result, flight and accommodation prices are usually quite expensive due to the high number of tourist' visits and activities. Also, there are no discounted prices during this period.

There are usually long queues to explore the city's popular attractions. Waiting for long hours under the scorching sun may prevent you from getting the best experience of the country's lovely scenery. The beaches are also likely crowded during this time, inevitably leading to inflated prices.

When is the Cheapest Time to go to Spain?

The cheapest time to visit Spain is during the winter months, from December through March. There are often fewer tourist activities and visits during this period compared to other months. The weather is usually between 10 to 13 degrees F and gets colder as it peaks in January.

This significant reduction in tourist visits means that business companies and markets are willing to offer discounts on their services. You can take advantage of discounts on flight tickets, accommodation, and entry fees by making a trip during these winter months.

Snowboarding, skiing, Christmas strolls, and Carnivals are some common events and activities you can engage in during this period.

Best Time To Visit Spain: Monthly Breakdown

January: Best Time to Avoid Crowds

Visiting Spain in January is the best time of the year to enjoy your vacation without crowds. Most visitors like to visit the country during the summer or spring, leaving winter periods crowd-free. However, this is a month where winter is at its peak.

The weather in cities like Barcelona and the federal Spanish capital, Madrid, is usually colder than in other states. So, pack some cozy clothes before you make the trip to the Spanish country. Accommodation is always relatively cheap during this month.

There aren't usually many activities during this period due to the low turnout of visitors. But in Spain, Christmas celebrations do not end until the 6th of January. This means you get to enjoy some carnivals and events like the "Procession of the Three Kings."

• The Picos
• Procession of the Three kings
• Empordà, Catalonia

Related Read: Best Time To Visit Europe

February: Best Nightlife Experience

There's no better time to enjoy the Nightlife experience in Spain than in February. The vibrant nation houses some of the most scintillating cities that light up at night and are suitable for party lovers. The streets of Barcelona, Benidorm, Ibiza, or Madrid simply dazzle and come alive at night.

As winter gradually nears its end, the country's nightlife becomes livelier. Several clubs, bars, cafes, and other attractive spots ensure the cities are lively and bubbling all through the night. You can enjoy various kinds of music and exotic dishes at fantastic venues.

The typical bustling nightlife of Spain is a famous lifestyle that sets it apart from other European countries. Its versatility also ensures the city has a perfect night spot in the country that suits your taste, mood or personality.

• Magaluf, Majorca
• San Antonio, Ibiza
• Playa de las Americas, Tenerife

March: The Sant Medir Festival

The Sant Medir Festival is a popular cultural event held in Barcelona and Sant Cugat del Vallés. This unique festival takes place on the 3rd of March every year. It comprises a series of exciting rituals and activities, including a pilgrimage and distribution of speak treats.

Many citizens and non-citizens regularly attend this much-anticipated festival which features horse carriages and lots of mouth-watering treats. These sweets are usually thrown into the air and gathered by the crowd with buckets, bowls, or bags. Neighboring cities are always in attendance for this event to participate in the pilgrimage and have a splendid time.

• Sant Medir
• Pilgrimage to the Ermita de Sant
• Saint's shrine in the Collserola mountain range

April: Best Time to Visit Madrid

Madrid holds a lot of major attractions which pull crowds every year. The month of April is normally the best time for you to visit the capital city of Madrid. This falls within the spring season when the weather is great, and there are lesser crowds.

Unlike many other European countries, the weather in Spain isn't so harsh across different seasons. Springtime offers the best weather throughout the year, with temperatures between 60 to 80 degrees F. But during this "shoulder season," the city is usually crowd-free, which means accommodation prices are usually low and more affordable.

This ideally makes April the best time to explore the city's beauty and wonderful offerings. As the weather gets warmer this month, the city becomes more lively and buzzing with various activities.

• Prado National Museum
• Parque del Retiro
• Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
• Royal Palace of Madrid · Museo Nacional

May: San Isidro Festivals

The San Isidro festival is an annual event held in May in honour of the patron saint of Madrid. It has become a tradition for citizens to commemorate the festival on the 15th of May. There aren't usually many visitors during this time, making it a great time to be a part of this event without crowds.

The people of Madrid like to celebrate this event by taking time off from work to organize shows and get-togethers in public spaces. This festival presents the perfect opportunity to enjoy the raw, authentic life of the capital city. The celebration often features lots of sweets, large picnics, dancing, music, and drinking.

• Pilgrimage to San Isidro's meadow
• Hermitage's patio.

Related Read: Best Time to Visit Lisbon

June: Enjoy Outdoor

The month of June ushers us into the summer period, where temperature levels and crowds begin to rise. The beautiful sunshine and increased activities make this month a great time to enjoy the outside view. Several businesses and companies are always busy during this period.

This is a good time to stroll through the city and experience the cultural life filled with lots of dancing, music, and excitement till dawn. Immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of unique environments like the famous the Sagrada Familia Basilica of Castellfollit de la Roca in Catalonia.

• Scuba Diving
• Visit the Aquarium in Barcelona
• Ticket to a match at the Santiago Bernaubeu

July: Barcelona Beach Festival

The summer months are usually the most exciting time of the year due to several festivals and events. July is one of the busiest months in Spain. And as the heat intensifies, more events continue to occur in major parts of the country.

The Barcelona Beach festival is an annual event held in the summer from the 2nd to the 3rd of July. Temperature levels often rise from 88 degrees to 92 degrees F, making July the hottest month of the year. The Barcelona beach festival is a renowned event featuring the best electronic music from various artists worldwide.

It typically records a massive crowd every year. Many tourists travel down to enjoy themselves in the country's finest location at the Barcelona beach.

While there, you can do many activities to see the city or even take a Spanish course in Barcelona.

August: La Tomatina Festival

The celebrations and festivities roll into August, with La Tomatina Festival being the most notable. This event takes place in the beautiful city of Buñol, Valencia. Every Wednesday in August, people from neighboring cities and around the world gather to celebrate the patron saints and the Virgin Mary(Mare de Déu dels Desemparats).

The festival lasts for about one week as people gather together to have loads of fun and playfully throw tomatoes at each other.

• Enjoy Malaga's August Fair
• La Tomatina Festival

September: Festa De La Merce

As we slowly enter the Fall season, the crowds begin to reduce, and festivals aren't as rampant as in previous months. However, the festival of La Merce occurs on the 24th of September every year. It remains the biggest event in the Catalan capital all year-round.

It takes place in Barcelona, a city filled with a rich history and stunning structures. During this month, the country sees fewer tourist activities. So, you can make the drip down a part of this colorful cultural festival.

• La Mercè, patron saint of Barcelona

October: Best Autumn Month

Autumn is at its peak in October, and the leaves begin to turn orange, with temperature levels dropping to around 60 degrees F. At this point, tourists crowds are back in their respective homes. The city looks even more beautiful, and you'll get a chance to appreciate the thrilling natural essence and architecture.

Halloween (Dia de las Brujas) is a time many people are usually excited about and takes place on the 31st of October. The people of Spain are always well propped up for this occasion with unique outfits and decorations.

November: Visit Historic Towns and Cities

As the bustling life begins to wane and winter sets in, the country becomes less lively. November comes as the perfect month for you to explore Spain's historic towns and cities. Hike around places like the Pyrenees, Canary Islands, and Picos de Europa while taking in the lovely scenery.

Also, prices are usually low during this month thanks to low tourist visits. So make the most of this by crowd-free period and explore the city's most beautiful spots.

• Cadaqués, Catalonia
• San Vicente de la Barquera, Cantabria
• Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia

December: Madrid Holiday Experience

The spirit of festivities returns in the month of December as the winter holidays draw closer. Many families usually have their vacation plans set, and a trip to Spain is a great holiday choice. Visiting the Spanish capital or other cities is always budget-friendly, especially at the beginning of the month.

Spain is a happy place to be during this time of the year. The people are so warm and friendly that it can be infectious. Pack some cozy clothes and indulge in some winter activities like Christmas strolls and street decorations while you enjoy some traditional sweets.

The "Sitges carnival" is also one you wouldn't want to miss.

• Royal Palace of Madrid
• Walk the Botanical Gardens Winter Wonderland

What Is The Food Capital of Spain?

The city of Donostia-San Sebastián is popularly regarded as Spain's food or culinary capital. It is famous for most traditional and exquisite dishes synonymous with the country's heritage. It is located just on the country's north coast and houses countless pintxo bars, restaurants, and food markets.

San Sebastian boasts the highest number of Michelin stars than any other city in the world. It is home to arguably the best seafood and many exotic dishes.

Best Time to Visit The Food Capital of Spain

The best time to visit the country's food capital is from May to July, just before the fall. This period offers a pleasant climate with temperatures usually at 60 to 65 degrees F. San Sebastian's weather is relatively cooler than other cities in Spain.

It may not share the level of popularity as cities like Madrid and Barcelona, but it does boast a cooler climate. The city has some nice spots to check out and relax during spring. These months also offer a perfect time to go to a crowd-free beach before tourists troop in the summer.

And of course, the food. The country's food capital is famous for its mouth-watering delicacies. So feel free to walk into any spot and tantalize your taste buds with some of the world's finest dishes.

Related Read: Best Time To Visit Morocco

Best Time to Visit Ibiza

The best time to visit Ibiza is from May to October, basically when it isn't winter season. Temperature levels during these months rarely fall below 60 degrees which is suitable for travels and festivals. The warm weather ensures that nothing ruins vacation plans like tours, beach parties, and other outdoor events.

Ibiza is a lovely city to be during these months. You can go on a boat tour or have a taste of the party island in its popular turquoise water. Clear skies also make it a good time to go on a kayaking adventure.

Related Read: 15 Best Waterfalls in Spain

What Is The Best Time To Visit Spain With Family?

The best time to visit the country with family is spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November). This way, you get to enjoy low prices on accommodation and flight fees due to low tourist visits. The weather during these months is also palatable for young and older adults.

Best Time For Bullfighting Season in Spain

Bullfighting is a popular sport in Spain and has become a regular event at the San Isidro festival. The best time to watch a bullfight in Spain is during the months of May and June. Madrid is home to the biggest bullring in the country, with a seating capacity of 23,798.

The viewing ticket is quite affordable and available for purchase online.

Best Month To Visit Spain To Avoid Crowds

November to February sees fewer tourists visiting Spain, making it perfect for crowd-free vacations. These are the coldest months of the year, and the cities aren't as vibrant as they usually are.

Very few people are interested in visiting the country during these winter months. This shortage of visitors makes for a perfect getaway if you want a crowd-free environment. Accommodation prices also tend to drop low during this winter season significantly.