Madrid has a continental climate: hot, dry summers and cold, bright winters. The sky is often blue all year, but the best months for walking the city are in spring and autumn. Here is what each season brings.
Spring (March to May)
Our favourite time. Days are mild, the trees in the Retiro Park come into leaf and the terraces fill up. Easter brings processions and torrijas. On 15 May Madrid celebrates its patron saint, San Isidro, with dancing, *chulapos* in traditional dress and fairs in the Pradera de San Isidro. Spring can also bring a few rainy days – pack a light jacket.
Summer (June to August)
June is lovely, and Madrid Pride (late June to early July) is one of the biggest in Europe. July and August are very hot, with afternoons often above 35 °C. Do as Madrileños do: sightsee in the morning, rest at midday, and go out late. The Veranos de la Villa festival fills summer nights with concerts and theatre. In August the city is quieter – many locals are on holiday – but the old districts celebrate their verbenas: San Cayetano, San Lorenzo and La Paloma (around 15 August), with street parties in Lavapiés and La Latina.
Autumn (September to November)
Another excellent season: warm September days, golden October light and the autumn colours of the Retiro in November. In October, shepherds lead their flocks of sheep through the city centre for the Fiesta de la Trashumancia, and November brings the Festival de Otoño of theatre and dance.
Winter (December to February)
Cold, often sunny, with frosty nights. From late November the streets glow with Christmas lights, and the Plaza Mayor hosts its Christmas market. On New Year’s Eve, crowds gather at Puerta del Sol to eat twelve grapes with the chimes of the clock. On 5 January, the parade of the Three Kings crosses the centre. Winter is also perfect for museums – and for a hot chocolate with churros.
Quick guide
- Best overall: April to June, and late September to October.
- For festivals: May (San Isidro), late June (Pride), August (verbenas), December (Christmas).
- Quietest: August and January – but check opening times.
Once you have chosen your dates, plan your days with Madrid in 3 days, find your area in where to stay in Madrid and read our Madrid travel tips before you go.
