Spain's cultural and geographic diversity provide ample opportunities for visitors to experience something extraordinary. Mediterranean beaches and mountainous terrain offer tourists the chance to get outdoors, while major cities supply travelers with the option to enjoy artistic attractions, sample native cuisine, or party down. Outdoors enthusiasts of all sorts can find something to do, whether they prefer hiking, sunbathing, or hang-gliding. The beaches of Spain are perfect for soaking up the rays or for swimming in the sea. For example, Playa de la Concha, in Basque Country, is one of the most popular spots for travelers and locals alike. The Pyrenees Mountains, meanwhile, offer rugged terrain and scenery that make this area popular for hikers and adventure sports fans. Spain's cities are filled with excitement and cultural attractions. Barcelona offers a look into the past with its pedestrian streets, enchanting squares, and traditional festivals. The nightlife in Madrid is exceptional, and tourists will want to take advantage of the midday siesta to experience the late-night happenings, such as eating tapas or dancing into the early morning. Other cities offer their own unique customs, such as the running with the bulls in Pamplona or flamenco dancing in Seville. Flights to Spain may land at more than forty national airports, including Barcelona Airport, Seville Airport, or the country's busiest, Madrid Barajas International Airport.

Mainland Spain has a variety of significantly different terrains, from warm, sandy beaches to snow-covered mountains, that attract visitors at various times throughout the year. The most popular time to visit is during the summer when schools are on break. Winter sees fewer visitors, except during the holiday season. Spring and fall tend to be less expensive as well as less crowded.

high season: mid-June to mid--September
low season: December to March
shoulder season: April to early-June, lateSeptember to November

Weather Information

Spain is one of the warmest regions in Europe, and receives more than three thousand hours of sunlight a year. Areas such as the Canary Islands enjoy sunny and mildly warm weather all year long, with little difference between day and nighttime temperatures. Snow is common in the Pyrenees and Sierra Nevada mountain ranges, though it is often sunny at these higher altitudes as well.

Crowd Information

Fewer tourists visit during the months of October through April, except during the Christmas holidays. Higher traffic occurs during summer and holidays such as Easter.

Closure Information

Many stores and businesses close between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.

When to Save

The best times to visit Spain on a budget are during the low or shoulder seasons. Airlines also tend to offer lower prices from September through October, January through February, and May.

Information provided by the Tourist Office of Spain