The weather in Spain turns cooler in November, and you won’t find a packed events calendar like you would during the summer months. But just because you can’t run with the bulls in Pamplona doesn’t mean that November isn’t a good time to visit Spain. Spain’s largest cities host unique jazz, film and arts festivals throughout November, while elsewhere you can celebrate from pomace , Spain’s equivalent of grappa and the country’s new wines.
Spain Weather in November
The weather throughout Spain can vary in November, which means that there is something to offer for everyone, whether you are interested in the warm winter sun or a cozy cafe in town.
- Barcelona: 62 F (17 C) / 52 F (11 C)
- Girona: 62 F (17 C) / 42 F (6 C)
- Ibiza: 66 F (19 C) / 53 F (11 C)
- Bilbao: 62 F (17 C) / 46 F (8 C)
- Madrid: 59 F (13 C) / 43 F (6 C)
- Córdoba: 66 F (19 C) / 46 F (8 C)
Madrid tends to be quite cold, so if you spend time in the capital, pack accordingly. Madrid may be one of the driest cities in Spain, but that doesn’t mean it won’t rain in November.
Meanwhile, temperatures in Barcelona in November tend to be cool but not cold. You will experience a fair amount of sunny days, though don’t be surprised by some cloudy days too. However, do not plan to swim in the sea or sunbathe on the beaches of Barcelona. If you are looking for the winter sun, you will be pleased to know that Andalusia, the southernmost region of Spain, is the only area where it is possible to sunbathe in November, but there is no guarantee that you will get a tan because the weather in this part of the country varies. considerably.
The popular city of Seville tends to be the hottest city in Andalusia, but it cools down considerably in November. Rain falls about seven days during the month, and heavy rains are possible. Malaga is warm and mostly sunny, but November is the city’s wettest month, with heavy rains around seven days a month. Despite the sun, the sea is often too cold for swimming at this time of year.
The weather in November in the Basque Country and the surrounding regions in northern Spain can be unpredictable. Rainy and cold weather is common, but it is possible to experience warm and sunny weather on the coast, such as in San Sebastián.
Galicia, in northwestern Spain, is by far the wettest region in the country, so it is to be expected that it will rain here in November. But even though it will be wet, it shouldn’t be too cold.
What to pack
First, comfortable footwear is essential for Spain, regardless of the season. Like most European cities, you are likely to walk quite a bit. In late fall, when the weather can be humid or unpredictable, boots are a good option.
If you travel to various climates across the country, pack in layers. Plan to bring cozy items, like flannel shirts, knitted sweaters, and sturdy pants, like jeans. Don’t forget winter accessories like a thick scarf or knitted hat. You are unlikely to need a really heavy winter coat in November in Spain, so opt for a light jacket or warm vest.
Remember: if you are visiting Galicia, expect rain and pack accordingly! You will surely need an umbrella, raincoat, and waterproof shoes.
November events in Spain
Although you won’t find a huge and packed calendar of events in November in Spain, there are still plenty of festive events, many celebrating the country’s various wines and spirits. In addition, music and film lovers will enjoy the many festivals in November.
- All Saints’ Day : November 1 is a public holiday in Spain. Many stores and services will be closed this day.
- International Jerez Week : Usually held in early November, this global celebration pays tribute to the delicious fortified wine that was invented in Jerez. During this week-long event, you will find sherry served at public and private events in tobacco shops, hotels, bars, restaurants, universities, wine clubs, and wineries.
- San Andrés Festival : Held on November 29 in Tenerife, this event is traditionally about tasting New Year’s wine, but it’s more about making some noise. Partygoers drag pots, pans and noisy metal objects through the city streets. Bring earplugs.
- Bilbao International Documentary and Short Film Festival : This takes place in Bilbao in mid-November, but it’s not your only chance to see award-winning films. Other film festivals worth visiting include the San Sebastian Horror and Fantasy Film Festival and the Seville Film Festival .
- Fuerteventura International Kite Festival : This four-day event has been held in the beach dunes since 1987 and attracts visitors from all over the world. Over 150 kites are given to children to fill the skies with colorful kites.
November Travel Tips
- If you still want a beach vacation, Tenerife is an excellent option. The summer tourists have gone home, but it is still very hot.
- Accommodations in November can be much cheaper than other seasons. Trivago found that hotel room rates in Seville, for example, are 23 percent cheaper in November than in October.
- Bird watchers should flock to southern Spain in November as millions of birds are migrating south. Doñana and the Strait of Gibraltar are two particularly excellent areas for bird watching.
- Roasted chestnuts and foil-wrapped sweet potatoes are two traditional fall foods that you can find in almost every corner of Barcelona.
Do you want to know more about visiting Spain? Discover the best time to visit.
