Planning an independent trip to Spain? Here’s our handy list of things to think about, which might influence when and where you want to go.

What is the weather like in Spain?

Spain’s climate does vary significantly by region, but in general most of the country enjoys a mediterranean climate, with hot summers and gently winters. However in the north of the country it does not get as hot as it does in the south and it tends to rain more, even through the summer. In the centre of the country, like Madrid for example, it can be extremely hot in the summer and extremely cold in the winters. In the mountain regions such as the Pyrenees and the Sierra Nevada, winters can be cold and snowy.

Getting there

Spain is easily accesible by plane, train, boat, coach or car from the UK. Explore our guide to find the best options for your journey.

Where to stay

Accommodation comes in all shapes and sizes, from five star hotels, to campsites and everything in between. Spain as a chain of hotels called Paradors, which are created from historical buildings and also a thriving business in “agroturismo” where you can experience off the beaten track properties. 

How to travel around

Spain’s public transport system is far reaching, cost effective and efficient. You can get around by train, bus, car and metro in the cities. Our guide to public transport will help you to plan your journeys and ensure you get from a to be in a way that suits you.

How much time should I spend?

Spain is a very large country and to really get to know it’s diverse culture, food and scenery, will take a lot more than a typical two week holiday. Think about what things you like to do and when you can go. Your choices might then be influenced by seasonals fiestas or weather.

Where to go when

January

A visit to the Canary Islands in January can provide a much needed antidote to the British winter. The temperatures are warm but not unbearable and the beaches are less crowded than in the summer. Lanzarote and Fuerteventura are surfers’ paradise in the winter months, with surf the strongest on the East coasts. There are ferries between the islands, so it is easy to do a bit of island hopping and visit some of the smaller, less visited islands like La Palma or La Gomera, which don’t have airports.

February

The Balearic islands (Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca and Formentera) are well known, popular destinations for British tourists in the summer months, but few people know that temperatures can be very pleasant in the late winter/early spring, reaching up to 20C and there are very few tourists around. Much of the night life may not be in operation, so if you are looking for a hedonistic holiday, this might not be the time to go, but it can be a great place to get away from the UK winters, relax, get outdoors and get some sunshine on your face. Cycling is very popular in the Balearics and the Almond blossom in February in the interior is a must see.

March

March is when the fiestas in Valencia take place. Each district of the city builds ninots which are enormous papier mâché models that are usually satirical in nature. They stand in the local square for people to visit and then at the end of the month they are judged and burned. Although these are the central theme of the festivities, there are also daily fireworks and the Mascleta, (a detonation of firecrackers around the central square) and flower displays. The city is alive and vibrant during the Fallas, but it is also full of visitors, so make sure to book your flights and accommodation well ahead of time.

April

The spring weather is an ideal time to visit Andalucia, before it gets too hot to take in the sights, with temperatures averaging around 18C. It is also the month when Semana Santa usually falls as does the Feria de Sevilla, two fiestas not to be missed if you want to really experience the best of Spanish fiestas. Spring is also a wonderful time to experience all the orange blossom and the beaches without the crowds.

May

Visiting Córdoba in May is a magical experience, as the city comes alive with vibrant colours, scents, and festivities. The highlight is the Patios de Córdoba Festival, when locals open their flower-filled courtyards to the public, showcasing stunning displays of geraniums, jasmine, and orange blossoms. The weather is warm but pleasant, perfect for exploring the city’s rich Moorish and Roman heritage. May also brings the Cruces de Mayo and the Feria de Córdoba, filling the streets with music, dance, and traditional Andalusian charm. It’s the ideal time to immerse yourself in the city’s culture, history, and festive spirit.

June

June is the perfect time to visit Galicia in the far North West of Spain. The climate is very different to the rest of Spain and Galicia is more like England with the amount of rain it gets. However, this also makes the scenery very different to the rest of Spain, which is why it is sometimes called Green Spain. Likewise the culture is different, with a strong Celtic influence, which can be seen in their language, food and traditions. You will still probably get some rain while you are there, but it will also be sunny and the beaches in Galicia are very undeveloped. Why not walk some of the famous Camino de Santiago while you are there?

July

If you’re looking for an active outdoor holiday, visiting the Pyrenees in July will provide a wide range of opportunities – hiking, cycling, abseiling, canyoning or rafting to name a few – among some of Europe’s most stunning scenery. The weather is warm and dry in the summer months, but not too hot to get active. You could also combine with a trip down to Pamplona and experience the famous Bull Run, which takes place in July.

August

If you don’t like the heat and crowds, August is not a great time to visit Spain generally, however La Tomatina fiesta is a unique experience which you may consider worth braving the heat for. It is held annual in Bunol on the last Wednesday of August and is said to be the world’s largest food fight where everyone in the town throws tomatoes at each other. Looks like a lot of fun, but don’t expect your clothes to survive the experience.

September

The costa Brava, the coast north of Barcelona seems to have avoided the same level of overdevelopment that has been seen along the Costa Blanca, perhaps because the coast line is more little coves than long stretches of sandy beaches. Whatever the reason, the Costa Brava is a great place to visit after the peak of the summer season. With plenty of little villages to explore as well as the city of Girona you won’t be lost for things to do, but if you are there towards the end of the month, be sure not to miss the Marcé fiesta in Barcelona.

October

Harvest time in La Rioja, where tastings abound and around 1200 wineries, many of which offer guided tours. As you can imagine in a place where wine plays such an important role in the economy of the region, wine bars are also a plenty where you can enjoy your tapas with a glass of Rioja, to finish of the day. Nearest airport to this region is Bilbao, which should allow for time to visit this fascinating city too.

November

November is the perfect time to visit Spain’s glorious capital, much overlooked by British tourists in favour of Barcelona. Madrid is a vibrant city where you can experience the best of the Spanish lifestyle and culture and you will find it largely tourist free in November. Take a Sunday walk with the Madrileños in the Retiro, the central park, or visit the Prado, the home of world class art and experience tapas bars as they were truly meant to be experienced. There are also some great day trips that can be done from the city by train to Toledo, Segovia, and Aranjuez.

December

San Sebastian in December will be almost devoid of tourists, which means you could bag yourself a bargain on the accommodation and enjoy some of the finest restaurants that Spain has to offer. The city boasts the most Michelin stars per capita of anywhere else in the world and one of the highest per square metre. But whether your budget can stretch to five stars or not, you will still find some great places to experience what is considered to be some of the finest food across the whole of Spain.