When is the best time to travel to Spain?

Late spring is the best time to travel to Spain. You’ll find the temperature moderate and not too hot, the days long, lots of cultural events, and the crowds tolerable. Best of all, spectacular wildflowers are blooming in brilliant colors throughout the countryside.

Fall is a good season as well with the advantage of the colorful harvest, especially in the wine regions.

With the exception of Galicia and Spain’s northern regions, summer is a fairly scorching experience throughout the country. The heat is not impossible, but you need to plan your days carefully, taking advantage of cool mornings to do your outdoor sightseeing. By afternoon, the heat descends, and you’ll need to stay indoors for the most part. Follow the custom and take a siesta. At night everybody takes to the streets and the fun begins. Spain’s beach resorts in July and August can be overly crowded and expensive. Don’t forget: Spain is the number-one summer destination for Europeans.

During winter, expect a mild and rainy climate along the coasts, freezing temperatures inland, and snow in the mountains near Granada, Madrid, and the Pyrenees.

Hotels stay open throughout the year.

Spain enjoys a calendar filled with parades, festivals, and some of the best traditional events in Europe. With very few exceptions, the Spanish whole heartedly welcome travelers to join in the festivities. If you plan on being in Spain during Semana Santa (Holy Week) make sure you have reservations and plan on paying more for accommodations.