Spanish weather: plan and pack smartly

The Spanish weather is one of the main reasons the country receives so many visitors per year (80+ million). Northern Europeans travel to Spain looking for amazing beaches with supposedly guaranteed sun all day, every day. This is true in some regions but, as you can imagine Spain’s weather isn’t as simple as that.

While it’s true that in the summer it will usually be sunny, except for the northern area from Galicia to the Basque Country where the weather is really unpredictable. It’s also worth noting that July and August can be too hot inland and very humid in the coast, particularly Catalonia and the Comunidad Valenciana.

The good news about the climate in Spain is that the you won’t really have to worry about the weather once you are in Spain. Depending on your type of vacation, and on the season, you will find a solution no matter what the weather is. For instance, if you’ve ever caught in an unexpected rain shower go to a museum or a café. On the contrary, during a blast of hot go indoors and get a dose of air conditioning (or heat in winter).

You shouldn’t be really worried because most infrastructures – whether it’s hotels, shops or transports, are fully equipped with A/C and heaters. But make sure to be prepared for the time you will spend outside.

Whatever the season you plan to go, pack light and accordingly.

Practical information on the Spanish climate

Despite Spain is not a very big country compared to Canada, Australia or the US, its climate can change dramatically from one region to another. Be aware that you will be confronted with different temperatures and weather conditions depending on where and when you plan to travel.

In fact, the Spanish weather can be divided into four different climatic areas. Depending on the area you plan visit, and the time of the year, you will be confronted with quite different temperatures.

Everything you need to know about the Spanish climate »

Spain weather forecast

You really don’t need a lot of stuff when you travel. Just take the minimum you need and buy the rest along the way. You will soon realize that the lighter and smarter you pack your clothes and other travel related items, the easier it will be to go through airport security, and carry your bags with you.

This is why it is essential to look in advance at the weather forecast. You will avoid carrying along the world clothes you will probably never use.

Avoid surprises checking the weather forecast for Spain »

How to keep cool

In general, temperatures in southern Spain can be very hot during the summer months (June, July and August). The heat in the middle of the day can feel pretty unbearable, particularly if you have been plunged into the thick of it directly from northern Europe, northern America or the southern hemisphere.

You should take extra precautions if you plan to be outside during that time. This is particularly important if you are travelling with children. Kids are much more sensitive to the extreme temperatures of Spanish weather so, please be careful and avoid them sunstroke!

Tips on how to keep cool »