When to Go to Spain? A Season Guide for Madrid and Andalusia

The most comfortable times for Madrid and Andalusia are spring (late March to early June) and autumn (late September to November). Seville and Córdoba are counted among Europe's hottest cities in summer; in July and August, sightseeing outdoors at midday becomes hard. Winter is relatively mild in the south and a good option for those who want a trip without the crowds.

Understanding Andalusia's climate

Andalusia is a large region in the south of Spain, between the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean. Inland cities such as Seville and Córdoba are far from the cooling effect of the sea, so they get very hot in summer. Granada, built higher up at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, is cooler in the evenings, and in winter there is snow on the mountain peaks.

Madrid sits on a high plateau in the middle of the country. Its summers are hot and dry, while its winters are noticeably colder than Andalusia's. So you may encounter two different climates on the same tour, which matters when packing your suitcase.

Spring: orange blossom and festivals

From late March, the weather warms up in Andalusia, the orange trees blossom and the streets of Seville fill with a distinctive scent. This period is ideal for exploring cities on foot.

Spring has two big events:

• Semana Santa (Holy Week): In the week before Easter, religious processions are held in many Andalusian cities, Seville above all. It is an impressive tradition, but city centres get very crowded and some streets may be closed.
• Feria de Abril (April Fair): Seville's colourful spring fair. With flamenco costumes, horse-drawn carriages and marquees, it is the city's big celebration.

In May, Córdoba traditionally holds its courtyard festival, when the flower-filled courtyards of homes are opened to visitors. If you are travelling on these dates, bear in mind that the cities will be busier.

Summer: hot but with long evenings

From late June to early September, the afternoons in Seville and Córdoba are very hot. In this period, local life adjusts its clock accordingly: the streets go quiet in the midday heat, the squares fill up in the cool of the evening and dinner moves to late hours.

If you are going in summer:

• Schedule outdoor visits for early morning.
• Spend the afternoon in cool indoor spaces, such as the shady gardens of the Real Alcázar or museums.
• Don't set off without sunscreen, a hat and plenty of water.
• Use the evening hours for walking and eating; in Andalusia, real life begins after sunset.

Some local businesses may close for holidays in August.

Autumn: balanced and calm

From late September the heat breaks and Andalusia becomes comfortable to explore again. October and November are when the summer crowds have dispersed and the weather is still mild. These months are often the most balanced choice for culture-focused travellers and groups. In the later weeks of autumn the chance of rain increases; a light raincoat is all you need.

Winter: a mild south, a cool Madrid

Between December and February, days in Seville and Córdoba are usually mild, while nights are cool. Granada is colder, and the snow-capped peaks of the Sierra Nevada make an impressive view from the Alhambra. In Madrid, winter is noticeably cold.

Advantages of winter:

• Popular places such as the Alhambra and the Mezquita are quieter.
• The cities are decorated with lights over Christmas.
• You can walk without battling the heat.

The downside is the short days, and you will need warm clothing in Madrid and Granada.

Packing tips by season

• Spring and autumn: Light layers, a cardigan or light jacket for the evenings and comfortable walking shoes. Evenings in Granada can be cool.
• Summer: Breathable fabrics, a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen. Keep a light shawl or shirt in your bag to cover your shoulders in cathedrals and other religious sites.
• Winter: In Andalusia a jumper and jacket may be enough during the day; for Madrid and Granada, add a thicker coat, a scarf and gloves.

Whatever the season, shoes you have already broken in are the most important item for cobbled streets and long walks.

Which period for school and group trips?

With large groups, remember that heat seriously slows a group's pace. That is why spring and autumn are the easiest times to run group trips. For corporate groups too, these months are balanced in terms of both climate and the intensity of the programme.

The Madrid and Andalusia Tour combines Madrid, Toledo, Seville, Córdoba and Granada in 4 nights, 5 days. We finalise the choice of dates according to your group's calendar together with you at the quotation stage. You can find out in detail what you will see at each stop in our article Things to see in Madrid and Andalusia.

Act early on documents

Whichever season you choose, visa and passport processes can take time. Before you travel, check the current situation with the official sources of the country concerned and the Turkish Ministry of Foreign Affairs; especially in busy seasons, planning your application early makes things easier.

Frequently asked questions

Which month is best for going to Andalusia?

April, May, October and November are generally balanced months. The weather is good for walking and there is no summer heat.

Can you visit Seville in summer?

Yes, but midday is very hot. You need to move outdoor visits to the morning and eating and walking to the evening.

What is the weather like in Andalusia in winter?

In Seville and Córdoba the days are usually mild and the nights cool. As Granada and Madrid are colder, it is a good idea to bring a warm coat.

Is it a good idea to go during Semana Santa?

For anyone who wants to see the religious processions, it is a unique experience. However, the cities get very crowded and some streets may be closed, so you need to keep your programme flexible.