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Madrid is a tourist's utopia, regarded as a shining metropolis with a history steeped in art. The capital city of Spain, sometimes overlooked in favor of its more well-known northern neighbor Barcelona, features gorgeous architecture, global art galleries, scrumptious culinary options, and a lively nightlife that stands in stark contrast to the day's restrained fine arts and dining prospects. Planning to visit Madrid and wondering when to plan your trip? Read on to discover the best time to visit Madrid.
What's the Best Time to Visit Madrid?
Best Months for Staying Outdoors in Madrid: May to October.
Best Months for Sightseeing & Museum Hopping: May and October
Best Months for Honeymooners: September to November and March to May
Best Months for Budget Travelers: December to March
Best Months for Shopaholics: July to September
High Season
When: June and August
What to Expect:
- This is the height of summer, and also when the majority of visitors arrive.
- Many locals will be on vacation in August, which means that many businesses will be closed.
- The streets are still packed with tourists, and hotel rates are at an all-time high.
Shoulder Season
When: March to May, September, and October
What to Expect:
- The second half of May and September are believed to be the finest times to visit Madrid.
- The weather is usually pleasant, and strolling around the city is pleasant.
- There will be fewer tourists than there will be throughout the summer months.
Low Season
When: November to February (except Christmas)
What to Expect:
- Tourist numbers are significantly smaller than at other times of the year.
- You'll get access to a wide range of lodging options as well as discounted rates.
- The majority of the attractions can be experienced at a slower pace, and the weather rarely drops below freezing.
Seasons in Madrid
Spring
March - May
Average Temperatures: 5°C Low - 22°C High
The greatest time to visit Madrid is in the spring. It's warm and sunny, and the mountain air, combined with the occasional rains, provides an incredible sense of freshness. The air becomes crisp and chilly in the evening, but the temperature climbs to 17-22 °C by the afternoon the next day. In the spring, the city takes on a new face as over 40 local parks begin to bloom.
Tips: Enjoy strolling around Buen Retiro Park or the Plaza Mayor.
Summer
June - August
Average Temperatures: 14°C Low - 31°C High
Summer in Madrid is often dry and hot, with daytime temperatures staying around 30 degrees Celsius and occasionally exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The city hollows out for siesta in the afternoon, with traffic slowing and streets becoming deserted. Many residents had taken vacations along the Mediterranean coasts.
Tips: Avoid stepping out without sunscreen if you have activities planned for the afternoon.
Autumn
September - December
Average Temperatures: 5°C Low - 26°C High
Autumn in Madrid is similar to spring in terms of temperatures, with September and October being the most pleasant months, with daytime averages of 29-21 °C. While rainfall is nearly twice as high as in the summer, rapid showers that last only a few minutes generate the ideal temperature for walking around the city. The weather becomes cold when rain and winds combine.
Tips: For a visit to Madrid in the autumn, it is necessary to carry layers of clothing.
Winter
January - February
Average Temperatures: 2°C Low - 11°C High
In the winter, Madrid has a wide variety of daily averages. While the air warms up to 10-12 °C in the afternoon, it can plunge below freezing at night. Even though winter is the rainiest season, there are plenty of sunny days as well. The relative air humidity exceeds 80%, making it appear cooler than it is. Visitors should expect a significant temperature change between day and night.
Tips: Dress according to the weather even if it gets a little warm during the day.
Recommended Attractions in Madrid
Best Time to Visit Madrid: Month on Month Guide
January
Average Temperature: 3 - 10°C
Although Madrid's winters are cooler than most other parts of Spain, they are seldom harsh. While temperatures might reach as high as 10°C on a bright afternoon, January is the coldest month of the year, with an average low of 1°C. While the surrounding mountains typically receive a lot of snow at this time of year, the city itself is not expected to see much.
Things to do:
- Visit Reina Sofia Museum
- Explore Plaza Mayor and El Retiro Park
- Tour Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
- Day trip to Toledo and Segovia
Travel Tips: Pack a heavy winter coat, several sweaters, and possibly a scarf and gloves.
February
Average Temperature: 4 - 12°C
February is remarkably similar to January, with the exception that the peak temperature rises to a delightful 12°C, ensuring at least a few pleasant afternoons. During winters, the days are short and dark, but there's a strong probability you'll get some beautiful sunshine to explore the city on foot in moderate comfort.
Things to do:
- Visit Prado and The Royal Palace
- Tour Wanda Metropolitano Stadium
- Ride the Madrid Cable Car
- Explore Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
Travel Tips: While February is technically winter, pack a few short-sleeved shirts for when the sun comes out.
March
Average Temperature: 6 - 16°C
With the peak temperature rising to 16°C in March, spring is well on its way. March receives even less rain than the previous two months, with only 30mm of rain falling over eight days. You'll have almost 12 hours of daylight thanks to Daylight Savings Time. The Noche de Los Teatros is a big event in Madrid, with scores of performances occurring throughout the city on March 25th.
Things to do:
- Visit Madrid Prado Museum
- Explore El Escorial
- Discover Atlantis Aquarium
- Tour the Royal Palace of La Almudaina
Travel Tips: Given the pleasant weather, March is a great time to explore Madrid on foot.
April
Average Temperature: 8 - 18°C
April is one of Madrid's rainier months, with 50mm of rain falling over ten days, but it's typically not enough to disrupt your plans. Expect moderate weather this month, with average temperatures of 11°C, however, it can be as hot as 17°C on many days, especially at the end of April. Dress in layers; pack a light jacket and a pullover which you can carry with you in case it gets chilly.
Things to do:
- Head to Koki Zoo
- Vist Reina Sofia Museum
- Explore the Royal Palace Of Aranjuez
- Day trip to Toledo
Travel Tips: In case you get caught in a rainstorm, having a compact, a portable umbrella is recommended.
May
Average Temperature: 11 - 22°C
Spring doesn't last long in Madrid, with average high temperatures rising five degrees to 22°C this month, signaling the start of summer. Although this is one of the rainier months, there is usually plenty of glorious sunshine to be had on most days. The weather is ideal at this time of year because the harsh hot summer heat has not yet reached its height. This is an ideal time to visit for sightseeing.
Things to do:
- Spend time at Prado and The Royal Palace
- Explore Plaza Mayor and El Retiro Park
- Embark on a tour of Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
- Ride the Madrid Cable Car
Travel Tips: This is a great time to visit Madrid since the crowds are yet to arrive
Madrid in May Guide
June
Average Temperature: 16 - 28°C
Summer has officially arrived in Madrid, as the high-temperature increases to 29°C in June. While it will be hot, it will not be as hot as the next two months, and June is typically a pleasant month to visit Madrid. With only 30mm of rain falling over six days, you won't need to bring an umbrella. You'll have plenty of time to take in the sights with approximately 15 hours of daylight.
Things to do:
- Visit the Museum of Illusions
- Tour Santiago Bernabeu Stadium
- Admire art at the Banksy exhibition
- Beat the heat at Parque Warner
Travel Tips: Given the temperature, it’s always a great idea to apply sunscreen liberally
Madrid in June Guide
July
Average Temperature: 19 - 32°C
July is the hottest month in Madrid, with average highs of 33°C and only 10mm of rain. Many shops and cafes close their doors to visitors during the peak of the summer heat to take a siesta break, only to reopen in the late afternoon. This month is by far the busiest of the year, with long lines at most tourist destinations.
Things to do:
- Santiago Bernabeu Stadium tour
- Explore Wax Museum Madrid
- Experience Aventura Amazonia
- Visit the Royal Palace Of Aranjuez
Travel Tips: If possible, book an air-conditioned hotel because the heat can make sleeping uncomfortable.
Madrid in July Guide
August
Average Temperature: 19 - 31°C
August brings sweltering temperatures, with afternoon highs reaching 33°C and occasionally reaching 37°C or even higher. With 10mm of precipitation falling over three days, there isn't much rain to bring relief. Because of the city's high elevation, nights are still cool, so sitting outside and enjoying an evening drink is still a great way to end a steamy day of touring.
Things to do:
- Embark on a day tour to Segovia
- Explore Royal Palace of La Granja of San Ildefonso
- Visit Atlantis Aquarium Madrid
- Spend time at Madrid Prado Museum
Travel Tips: It's ideal to get up as early as possible in the morning to take advantage of the fresh air before it becomes too hot.
Madrid in August Guide
September
Average Temperature: 15 - 26°C
The average maximum temperature drops to 29°C in September, bringing reprieve from the summer's sweltering heat. It will probably still be hot early in the month, but as the month passes, the weather becomes increasingly pleasant. The second part of September is a fantastic time to visit because of the somewhat lower daytime and evening temperatures.
Things to do:
- Visit Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum
- Spend half-day at Parque Warner Madrid
- Discover the Royal Palace Of Madrid
- Explore Liria Palace
Travel Tips: You'll be well-prepared if you bring your summer clothes along with a light jumper for the evening.
Madrid in September Guide
October
Average Temperature: 11 - 19°C
October is a fantastic time to visit Madrid, with considerably cooler, comfortable weather that makes walking around the city a pleasure. The average high temperature drops to 21°C, and while there is a little more rain this month, with 40mm falling over ten days, you'll have plenty of sunlight. Between the busy summer days and the start of the Christmas season, October provides a respite.
Things to do:
- Visit Reina Sofia Museum
- Go for a Wanda Metropolitano Stadium tour
- Discover El Escorial Madrid
- Explore Atlantis Aquarium Madrid
Travel Tips: Due to the increased likelihood of rain, you may want to bring a portable umbrella.
Madrid in October Guide
November
Average Temperature: 6 - 13°C
By November, the weather had become markedly cooler, with high temperatures rarely surpassing 15°C. It's also rainier this month, with 50mm of rain falling over nine days, albeit nothing an umbrella can't handle. November can be unpredictable, with some years delivering t-shirt weather and others bringing a chill that necessitates the use of a winter coat and scarf.
Things to do:
- Visit Koki Zoo
- Explore the Royal Palace of La Almudaina
- Tour the Royal Palace Of Madrid
- Embark on a Wanda Metropolitano Stadium tour
Travel Tips: Winter gear should be included along with lighter layers for layering.
December
Average Temperature: 4 - 10°C
Madrid is a colorful, exciting place to be in December, despite the cold. The average temperature is around 7°C, however, it can get as high as 11°C on some days. Even though the weather is chilly and crisp most days, the sun shines plenty. The enthusiasm for Christmas builds as tourists return to the city for the holiday season.
Things to do:
- Visit Puerta del Sol for holiday season shopping
- Tour the Royal Palace Of Madrid
- Witness Christmas lighting at Plaza Mayor
- Explore Madrid Prado Museum
Travel Tips: Christmas time can get especially busy, book your tickets and accommodation in advance
Hacks & Tricks to Visit Madrid
- While walking around the city is unquestionably the finest way to see it, Madrid's outstanding public transportation system is also a fantastic option.
- The best times to visit Madrid include late spring and early autumn. Summers are hot, but not oppressively so, so you can travel to Madrid in July and August if you choose.
- While English will get you by in Madrid, knowing a little Spanish beforehand will make your vacation more memorable.
- Take advantage of free admission to some of the city's most popular museums! During specific times of the week, many museums in Madrid open their doors free of charge.
- Football is a significant part of the local culture, and going to a game is an absolute must.
- Do some research to discover if the attractions you want to visit allow you to reserve in advance online—and if they do, take advantage of it. You'll be able to skip the line for day-of tickets and get straight to the attractions
Frequently Asked Questions About The Best Time to Visit Madrid
The best time to visit Madrid is from September to November or March to May.
The high season in Madrid is between July and August.
The hottest month in Madrid is July with the highest temperature of 32°C.
December and January are the coldest months in Madrid.
October is the wettest month in Madrid, with an average rainfall of 1.8 inches.
May and October are both the best months to go sightseeing in Madrid.
Madrid is the least crowded between November and March.
You can get budget deals in Madrid from January to March.
Madrid is landlocked with no direct access to any ocean coastline.
You can visit Museo Nacional del Prado, El Retiro Park, enjoy diners at rooftop pubs, or hit the water park in Madrid in the summer.
You can shop at the Christmas market, ride the Christmas bus, and visit the many museums in Madrid in winter.
You can explore the city on your bike, witness stunning cherry blossom trees, and watch a football match in Madrid in Spring.
You can stroll the city’s many parks, visit the Royal Palace Of Madrid, and enjoy a drink at one of the terrace restaurants in Madrid in Autumn.
March to May is the best time to visit Madrid with kids.
January and February are both great months to visit Madrid for couples.
September to November is the best time to visit Madrid while traveling solo.
The best time to visit Madrid for shopping is January, July, August, and September.