When you imagine what it’s like to spend a day in Spain, your mental image probably includes a lot of that famous Spanish sun. That’s true in Madrid, which enjoys around 350 sunny days a year, making it the sunniest capital in Europe (an honor it shares with Athens). And with that sunlight, as you can imagine, comes a lot of heat.
While Madrid can get quite hot during the summer months, the humidity is relatively low, making the high temperatures much more manageable. Winters are also relatively mild, especially compared to other European destinations, and spring and fall are perfect overall – they are pleasantly warm, with low accommodation prices and fewer tourist crowds.
Madrid’s climate is one of the healthiest in Europe thanks to the fresh mountain air that flows into the city from almost all sides, but its altitude can also mean significant changes from season to season. This is what you can expect no matter when you go.
Fast weather data :
- Hottest Month: July (90 degrees F)
- Coldest Month: December (48 degrees F)
- Wettest Months: November and December (2.2 inches of precipitation)
Spring in madrid
Without a doubt, spring is the best time of year to visit Madrid. Sunlight is abundant but not overwhelming, and while torrential rain here or there is not impossible, the rain is relatively low. If you’re still not convinced, consider the myriad of fabulous festivals and cultural events that take place during the spring, like the San Isidro Festival.
What to pack : Despite the warm temperatures, Madrilenians tend to dress according to the season, rather than the weather. In spring, that means layers – think short sleeves, lightweight jackets, and scarves. It can be tempting to break out shorts and sandals, but save them for the summer months.
Average temperatures per month:
- March : 60 degrees F
- April : 64 degrees F
- May : 68 degrees F
Summer in Madrid
The sun and scorching temperatures characterize Madrid in summer, giving you the perfect excuse to have an ice cream or enjoy a relaxing relaxing hours in a shady corner of the Retiro Park. However, the low humidity means that sightseeing will not seem so arduous despite the high temperatures.
When visiting Madrid in the summer, keep in mind that many local businesses close their stores for a few weeks so that their owners and staff can enjoy their holidays, especially in August.
What to pack : Bring plenty of sunscreen and a pair of fancy sunglasses, and don’t be afraid to pull out tank tops and shorts this time of year. Note that the locals don’t really wear flip flops beyond the beach or pool, so bring a more sensible pair of sandals for walking around town.
Average temperatures per month:
- June : 80 degrees F
- July : 90 degrees F
- August : 86 degrees F
Autumn in Madrid
Like spring, fall is another of the most pleasant times of the year for your trip to the Spanish capital. While the season is generally mild overall, your experience can vary greatly depending on when you go. September is still on the warm side, while November sees lower temperatures and higher rainfall for the shorter days.
What to pack : Clothes that can be easily layered are also a good option for fall. Keep a jacket handy, as well as a scarf that can fit in your bag when you’re not wearing it.
Average temperatures per month :
- September : 77 degrees F
- October : 68 degrees F
- November : 55 degrees F
Winter in Madrid
While winter in Madrid sees lower temperatures and increased rainfall (usually in the form of rain, snow in the city itself is rare) in the winter months, the magic of festivities throughout the city makes this time of year is worth considering for a visit. This also tends to be the cloudiest and windiest season, so be prepared to bundle up (and remember it’s not embarrassing to sneak into a cozy café to warm up with coffee or churros – we’ve all done that).
What to pack : A warm winter coat is essential, and toss a compact umbrella in your bag while you’re at it; winter is the rainiest season in Madrid, and nothing is more annoying than getting caught in an unexpected shower.
Average temperatures per month :
- December : 48 degrees F
- January : 50 degrees F
- February : 54 degrees F
Average monthly temperature, rainfall and hours of daylight
In general, Madrid’s weather is excellent for much of the year, and there is something to enjoy every month and season.
- January: 50 degrees; 1.5 inches; 9 hours
- February: 54 degrees; 1.4 inches; 10 hours
- March: 60 degrees; 1 inch; 11 hours
- April: 64 degrees; 1.9 inches; 13 hours
- May: 68 degrees; 2 inches; 14 hours
- June: 80 degrees; 1 inch; 15 hours
- July: 90 degrees; 0.6 inches; 14 hours
- August: 86 degrees; 0.4 inches; 13 hours
- September: 77 degrees; 1.1 inches; 12 hours
- October: 68 degrees; 1.9 inches; 11 hours
- November: 55 degrees; 2.2 inches; 10 hours
- December: 48 degrees; 2.2 inches; 9 hours
