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Looking for warmth, endless nights, and a dash of cultural outings? You’re probably thinking of Madrid, right? It’s understandable. Over its long history, marked by military conquests and artistic brilliance, the Spanish capital has carved out a unique identity that now attracts millions of tourists. Attractions like the Prado Museum, the Teatro Real, Puerta Del Sol, and the Santiago Bernabeu are all the more enjoyable when the weather’s on your side. Wondering when that might be? When to visit Madrid? That’s what we’re exploring today.
🗺️ We’ve got you covered. At Destination(s) Europe, we’ve put together a little guide to Madrid. And a fine selection of hotels with rooftop pools, for a truly exceptional stay.
When to go to Madrid based on the weather
Madrid enjoys a continental Mediterranean climate, with hot summers and relatively cold winters. For those who prefer moderate temperatures, spring (April and May) and autumn (September and October) are ideal for visiting Madrid. During these months, the weather is pleasant for exploring the city, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 22°C. Summer, especially in July and August, can get very hot, with temperatures often soaring above 30°C, which might not be for everyone.
And what about rain, you ask? Well, unsurprisingly, Madrid is quite dry throughout the year. The rainiest months are November, April, and December, averaging 8 to 9 days of rain – the chart below is a bit less precise, but take our word for it. If you want to avoid the rain, plan your trip between June and August, when rainfall is at its lowest. However, remember that these are also the hottest months, as mentioned earlier.
When to go to Madrid depending on the crowds
As mentioned at the start, the Spanish capital is a particularly touristy city. Knowing when to visit Madrid and avoid the crowds can be challenging, but it’s possible to reduce the number of fellow visitors wandering the streets with you.
Tourist peaks
The summer months, from June to August, mark the peak tourist season in Madrid. This period aligns with school holidays in Europe and the United States, leading to a significant increase in visitor numbers. Major attractions like the Prado Museum, the Royal Palace, and Retiro Park are especially busy. The high temperatures don’t stop the streets from filling up with tourists and locals enjoying the many outdoor terraces and events.
Parties and events
Special events can also draw large crowds. Holy Week (Semana Santa), though more famous in southern Spain, is also a busy time in Madrid. Similarly, the Fiesta de San Isidro in May and New Year’s celebrations at Puerta del Sol attract many visitors.
On this note, don’t forget to check our events calendar in Europe. Great excuses to travel.
Less crowded months
For those looking to avoid the crowds, November to February are ideal. Although winter in Madrid is relatively cold, it offers a quieter experience. Tourist sites are less crowded, allowing for a more enjoyable and personal visit. Plus, this period coincides with some lesser-known but equally enriching cultural events. However, a significant downside: the nights fall early, and the days aren’t very long.
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to October) thus offer a perfect compromise between pleasant weather and moderate tourist traffic. These seasons provide an opportunity to discover Madrid in a relatively authentic light, with attractions accessible without the summer’s excessive crowds.
When to go to Madrid based on prices
No surprises here, it’s somewhat mathematical: more people, higher prices. With demand high, it’s only natural for Madrid’s hoteliers and restaurateurs to take advantage a bit.
Of course, the low season, from November to February, is the best time for those looking for economical rates. Cooler temperatures and fewer tourists lead to lower prices in almost all tourism sectors. Hotels and airlines often offer reduced rates, and it’s also possible to find deals for attractions and shows – except during the Christmas period, of course.
However, summer shouldn’t be entirely ruled out: indeed, with Madrid locals going on holiday, many accommodations are available for short-term rentals. It’s best to look at platforms like Airbnb or Abritel. But, it’s not a free-for-all: Madrid has been trying to regulate this market since 2019.
There you have it, we hope you now know when to visit Madrid. This is just our take, so feel free to share your own in the comments.