Madrid in September | Weather, Museums, Attractions & More
Madrid is the soul of Spain. Being the capital, it is the economic and political centre but also wears the country's culture and history with pride. From stunning museums and lavish palaces to buzzing avenues, Madrid is a tourists' dream. You're in for an even better time if you're a football fan, with the city home to Real Madrid and Atlético de Madrid, two of the biggest football clubs in the world. Visit Madrid in September to catch a home game and witness the best of this iconic city in a comfortable climate.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Madrid?
Summer in Madrid ends in September. It is less humid than in the earlier months, with temperatures remaining in the cool twenties. The nights are cooler, which makes travelling fun.
Why You Should Visit Madrid in September
- The city isn't as hot as in July and August.
- Days are warm, and nights can be chilly, giving you the best of both worlds.
- Accommodation and travel are less expensive than during peak summers.
- Several cultural events are held in September.
- The football season is back!
What to Look Out for in Madrid in September
- The weather is warm but can get chilly at night. Pack accordingly.
- A bag with a zipper is a must to protect your things.
- Beaches are fun in September, so remember to carry a swimsuit..
Overview of Weather in Madrid in September
September brings the end of summer to Madrid. The weather is less taxing on the body, making it easy to travel to the different sights in the city. Sunshine lasts up to seven hours in the day, enough to visit the daytime attractions.
- Average Temperature: 22°C
- Average Rainfall: 22mm
- Daily Wind Speed: 10.7 mph
- Temperature of the Sea: 21.4°C
Best Things to do in Madrid in September
1. Royal Palace of Madrid
Historic Palace
The Royal Family's official residence, the Royal Palace of Madrid, is a massive testament to Spain's history. Every Spanish King resided in the palace and added unique flavours that have made the building what it is today. Home to over 3400 rooms and made in the form of a square, the Royal Palace of Madrid is the largest of its kind in Western Europe.
September timings: 10 AM to 7 PM (Monday to Saturday), 10 AM to 4 PM (Sundays)
from €13
2. Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great
Catholic Church
The Basílica de San Francisco el Grande began its journey as a modest home for Saint Francis of Assissi and his companions in 1214. Years later, the building was expanded, demolished, and then reincarnated under the rule of King Carlos III. Today, it is the pride of Catholics in Madrid, with its dreamy ceilings and irresistible artwork.
September timings: 10:30 AM to 12:30 PM / 5 PM to 7 PM
3. Liria Palace
Historic Palace
Housing over five centuries of artwork, the Liria Palace is as valuable as gold for the city of Madrid. The palace is the official residence of the House of Alba, a powerful and influential family in Spanish history. The different generations of the family collected art, which now forms part of a collection that includes works by Goya, Murillo, and El Greco.
September timings: 10:15 AM to 12:30 PM, 4:15 PM to 6 PM
from €15
4. Wanda Metropolitano
Football Stadium
Wanda Metropolitano directly reflects Atlético de Madrid’s position in European football. The club has come a long way, winning the La Liga and reaching the Champions League finals in the last few years. Their home turf, the Wanda Metropolitano, is just as elite, winning the best stadium in the world award during the World Football Summit 2018.
September timings: 11 AM to 6 PM (Tuesday to Saturday)
from €14
5. Faunia
Nature Park
Visit the Faunia if you need a break from skyscrapers and buzzing nightclubs to enjoy nature. The zoo and botanical garden combine several ecosystems, including the Arctic, giving an insight into the lives of the plants and animal species. With over 15 different ecosystems, 700 animal species, and over 1,000 plants, the Faunia is a giant forest of its own.
September timings: 11 AM to 6 PM
from €18.90
6. Parque Warner Madrid
Amusement park
As the most popular amusement park in Madrid, the Parque Warner is simply unmissable. It promises fun, excitement, and thrill to people of all ages. There are areas in the park, including Hollywood Boulevard and Warner Bros. Studios. Since September is technically summer in Madrid, you can also enjoy the Parque Warner Beach, a water park offering fascinating adventures.
September timings: 12 PM to 10 PM
from €29.90
7. Prado Museum
Museum
Visit the Museo del Prado or Prado Museum, and we're certain you'll fall in love with Spanish art. The museum is the world's biggest repository of Spanish paintings. The museum has 8600 paintings and over 700 sculptures; some of the artwork also has Italian and Flemish roots. Don't miss the best works of Ribera, the great Velázquez, and the other great painters of Spain's Golden Age.
September timings: 10 AM to 8 PM
from €7
8. Madrid Aquarium Zoo
Zoo
You do not need to visit different continents to experience their wildlife. The Madrid Aquarium Zoo can provide all that and more in a few hours. It is spread across 20 hectares and is home to over 6000 animals of all kinds. Get close to gorillas, sharks, and kangaroos, living their lives in a controlled environment that suits their bodies.
September timings: 11 AM to 8 PM
from €25.50
9. Parque De Atracciones
Amusement Park
Despite the rise in the number of theme parks in Madrid, the Parque De Atracciones still attracts over two million visitors annually. It was the first theme park to open in the city and is regularly upgraded to offer a more thrilling experience. Roller-coasters like Tarántula and Abismo are nerve-wracking and shouldn't be missed at any cost.
September timings: 12 PM to 7 PM
from €32
10. Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum
Museum
Situated in Madrid, the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum is unlike most museums in the Spanish capital. That is because it doesn't just house the best of Spanish art; inside, you'll find legendary and historical works belonging to the German Renaissance, the Italian primitives, and Russian Constructivism. Some of the paintings go all the way back to the Middle Age.
September timings: 10 AM to 7 PM
from €9
11. Toledo Day Trip
Heritage Town
An hour away from Madrid lies the medieval city of Toledo. The UNESCO World Heritage town that sits on a hill has a fascinating history and a culture marrying three faiths—Christian, Jewish, and Muslim. Every narrow street in Toledo is worth exploring, but if you're running short on time, visit the Toledo Cathedral, the Puente de San Martín, and Puente de Alcántara footbridges.
from €52
12. Plaza Mayor
City square
The Plaza Mayor is authentic Madrid. It lay in the oldest part of the city and was once the centre of Madrid's commerce and municipal life. Today, it's an open square where you enjoy the best food and watch the city flow by you. The plaza offers the perfect stage for street musicians and hosts many events as well.
September timings: 10:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 4:30 PM to 8:30 PM
Festivals in Madrid in September
DCODE Festival
Date: September 17
Venue: Complutense University Campus
Madrid bids farewell to summer with the annual DCODE Festival held inside the Complutense University Campus. The 2022 event will be the festival's 10th edition and will see national and international artists like The Kooks and Carlos Sadness hit the stage. Families look forward to several attractions besides the music every year.
Know more
Festival Madrid Salvaje
Date: September 30 - October 1
Venue: Av. del Partenón
Among the best hip-hop music festivals in Madrid, the Festival Madrid Salvaje is another event you cannot miss in September. It is held at the end of September and includes an excellent lineup of Reggae artists as well.
Know moreEvents in Madrid in September
Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid
Date: Mid-September
Venue: IFEMA - Feria de Madrid
Established and upcoming Spanish fashion designers present their best work at the Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid, held twice a year. It is an excellent place to learn more about Spanish fashion.
Know more
Japan Weekend Madrid
Date: End of September
Venue: Acceso IFEMA
Witness Japanese movies, anime, and video games in the heart of Madrid. The Japan Weekend Madrid is a vast fair to understand and experience Japanese culture. KPOP and JPOP concerts and exhibitions by brands like Nintendo are the star attraction of the Japan Weekend Madrid fair.
Know moreKnow Before You Visit Madrid in September
- Time Zone: GMT +2
- Currency: Euro EUR - €
- Language: Spanish, French
- Country code: +34
- Emergency number: 112
What to Wear in Madrid in September
- September is technically summer, but it is cooler than July and August.
- Temperatures do not exceed 30°C, although evenings can be chilly.
- Carry a mix of light clothes and winter essentials, especially if you're not used to temperatures going below 15°C.
- A pair of comfortable walking shoes. Madrid is a large city and you'll do a lot of walking, so comfortable shoes are a must!
- A light jacket or cardigan. Even though it's not cold, the evenings can be cool and you may find yourself needing an extra layer.
- A scarf. This is not only for warmth but also for style! Scarves are very popular in Madrid and can add
What to Pack in Madrid in September
- A mix of summer and winter clothing.
- A cap, comfortable footwear, and glares as the sun shines bright in the afternoon.
- Sunscreen is a must in Madrid, even if it's not sunny all the time. The sun can be quite strong and you'll want to protect your skin.
- A water bottle to stay hydrated if the temperature touches the 30°C mark. Bring an empty water bottle to fill up from the many public fountains around the city.
- A backpack to accommodate your jacket, bottle, cap, etc.
Getting Around Madrid in September
- By Bus: Travelling in Madrid won't be a problem because of its extensive bus service. There are over 2000 buses connecting every part of the city.
- By Metro: If you're in a rush, go with the Madrid Metro. It is the fastest way of getting around in the Spanish capital.
- By Train (Cercanías): Madrid's rail service is also efficient, connecting the main destinations in the city.
- By E-Bikes: Avoid everything and choose the eco-friendly e-bikes called BiciMAD for short distances in Madrid.
Where to Stay in Madrid in September
As you'd expect, Madrid provides diverse accommodation options. From lavish hotels to affordable hostels, the Spanish capital can provide a stay to suit your budget. Here are a few options you can consider:
- Budget Hotels: Room Mate Alicia Hotel, SLEEP'N Atocha, Suites Viena Plaza de España
- Mid-range: B&B Hotel Madrid Centro Fuencarral 52, Room Mate Mario Hotel, Hotel Cortezo
- Luxury Hotels: Four Seasons Hotel Madrid, Palacio de los Duques Gran Meliá, Hotel Único Madrid
What to eat in Madrid in September
Madrid won't disappoint your tastebuds one bit. The city is one of the best places in Spain to enjoy authentic Spanish food. Here are some dishes you should try.
- Huevos Rotos: This traditional Spanish dish, which translates to "broken eggs," is made from potatoes fried in olive oil. Eggs are tossed over the fried potatoes, giving them a creamy taste.
- Callos a la Madrileña: Chilly evenings call for callos, a dish dating back to the 16th century. It is made of strips of beef tripe (stomach), chorizo, and morcilla (blood sausage).
- Croquetas: Croquetas are so convenient that you can eat them during the day, at night, in bed, or even while walking. They are crispy on the outside and creamy inside. Mushroom and chicken are common ingredients used to stuff inside the croquetas.
Explore Madrid Through The Year
All Your Questions About Visiting Madrid in September
September is an excellent time to visit Madrid. The weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds than in peak summers.
Exploring museums, palaces, and sporting arenas are among the best things to do in Madrid.
No, Madrid is not cold in September. The average temperature is 23°C and it only gets as low as 15°C at night. However, it is important to pack a jacket or cardigan for the evenings as they can be cool.
September in Madrid isn't as hot as July and August. Temperatures hardly exceed the 30°C mark.
The water temperature allows you to swim and enjoy watersports in Madrid in September.
Daylight lasts for up to six hours in Madrid in September. It is sunny but doesn't burn your skin.
You need a mix of summer and winter clothing for Madrid in September.
It hardly rains in Madrid in September.
Madrid is a premium European city. It is among the most expensive places to visit, although you can get excellent discounts if you visit in September.
Madrid is a highly safe city. Although, it's advised to stay vigilant and vary of petty crimes and tourist scams.
The Royal Palace of Madrid, Royal Basilica of Saint Francis the Great, and other top attractions are open in Madrid in September.
The Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Madrid and the Japan Weekend Madrid are two significant events tourists and locals look forward to in September.
22°C is the average temperature in Madrid in September.
Amusement parks like the Parque Warner Madrid are perfect for a day out with kids in Madrid in September.
The DCODE Festival is the top festival in Madrid in September.