Spain is a country that captures the hearts of all visitors. As the late, great Anthony Bourdain once said, “Spain is one of the Western world’s culinary and cultural centers.” Spain is a destination that promises a memorable experience, from its vibrant culture to its delectable cuisine and breathtaking landscapes.
Are you planning a trip to Spain in May? If you want to visit Spain, May is a great time to go. May is an ideal month to visit Spain because of the pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and more affordable prices.
In this article, we will delve deeper into the pros and cons of visiting Spain in May. This post contains affiliate links.
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May Weather in Spain
Spain has a Mediterranean climate, which makes it a popular tourist destination all year. May is no exception, and it is one of the most beautiful months to visit Spain. The weather is generally pleasant, with a national average temperature of 19°C (66°F).
In most parts of Spain, May is not a particularly rainy month. Weather patterns, on the other hand, can vary greatly depending on where you are in the country. For example, the northern region of Spain, including Bilbao and San Sebastian, receives more rainfall than the southern regions of Andalusia and Valencia.
the temperature in Spain may
Overall, if you want to avoid the heat and crowds of the summer months, May is a great time to visit Spain. The weather is generally pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in May in Spain, we recommend the southern regions of Andalusia and Valencia, which are known for their warm and sunny weather.
| City | Average Temperature (°F) | Average Rainfall (in) |
| Madrid | 62°F | 2.05 in |
| Barcelona | 64°F | 1.97 in |
| Seville | 72°F | 0.87 in |
| Valencia | 68°F | 1.61 in |
| Bilbao | 59°F | 4.17 in |
| Grenada | 69°F | 1.37 in |
| Mallorca | 66°F | 1.02 in |
| Marbella | 71°F | 0.78 in |
My husband and I visited Spain in early June of 2022, and it was HOT! So let’s take a look at average temperatures in May for the last two years.
Barcelona in May
Barcelona is a popular tourist destination in Spain, known for its distinctive architecture, delectable cuisine, and lively culture. With warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, May is an excellent month to visit the city. What you should know about visiting Barcelona in May.
Weather in Barcelona in May
In May, the average temperature in Barcelona is around 18°C (64°F), making it comfortable for visiting the city’s outdoor attractions. The humidity level is low, and there isn’t much rain in May, with an average of 50mm (1.97 in) falling over the course of the month. Barcelona is a sunny city in general, and May is no exception. During your visit, you can expect clear skies and plenty of sunshine.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Barcelona in May
One of the primary benefits of visiting Barcelona in May is that the peak tourist season has not yet begun, so crowds are generally smaller than during the summer months. Hotel rates and flights may also be lower than during the peak season. On the negative side, some attractions may have limited hours of operation in May, and some restaurants and bars may still be closed for the season.
Dressing for Barcelona in May
Because the weather in Barcelona in May is warm but not hot, you can wear shorts and t-shirts comfortably. Bring a light jacket or sweater for the evenings, as temperatures can drop slightly after dark. If you plan on doing a lot of walking, wear comfortable shoes.
Outdoor Activities in Barcelona in May
If you want to enjoy the outdoors during your May visit to Barcelona, you’re in luck. The weather is pleasant enough to enjoy the city’s beaches, and if you don’t mind the water being a little cool, you can even go swimming. Explore the city’s parks and gardens, including as Parc de la Ciutadella and Montjuc Castle Gardens.
Madrid in May
Madrid is the capital of Spain and a popular tourist destination known for its art, culture, and nightlife. May is an ideal month to visit Madrid, with pleasant weather and plenty to see and do. Here’s what you should know about Madrid in May.
Weather in Madrid in May
In May, the weather in Madrid is warm and sunny, with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F). Bring light clothing to stay comfortable during the day because the temperature can occasionally reach 30°C (86°F). Evenings can get a little chilly, so bring a light jacket or sweater. In May, the city receives very little rain, making it an ideal time to visit Madrid’s outdoor attractions.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Madrid in May
One of the primary benefits of visiting Madrid in May is that the weather is mild but not oppressively hot, making it ideal for exploring the city’s many attractions. Furthermore, crowds are generally smaller than during the peak summer season, and hotel and flight prices are frequently lower. However, due to lower tourist traffic, some restaurants and shops may have limited opening hours in May.
Activities and Attractions in Madrid in May
In May, there are many interesting attractions and activities to enjoy in Madrid. Among the most popular are:
- Visit the museums: Madrid is home to a number of world-class museums, including the Prado, Reina Sofia, and Thyssen-Bornemisza. May is a good month to visit these museums because the crowds are lighter than in the summer.
- Explore the parks: Retiro Park and Casa de Campo are two of Madrid’s most beautiful parks. The parks are in full bloom in May, making them the ideal place to unwind and enjoy the sunshine.
- Enjoy Madrid’s vibrant nightlife, which includes numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. The weather in May is warm enough to enjoy a drink or a meal outside in one of the city’s many plazas or terraces.
- Watch a soccer match: Madrid is home to two of the world’s most successful soccer clubs, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid. The Spanish soccer league’s season ends in May, so it’s a great time to catch a game and experience the passion of Spanish soccer firsthand.
- Visit Mercado San Miguel for delicious Cava and seafood tapas.
- Visit a rooftop bar for sunset views and drinks. Read more about what to do in Madrid.
Overall, Madrid is a fantastic May destination, with pleasant weather and a plethora of activities to choose from. Check out Unique things to do in Madrid.
Valencia in May: Enjoying the City and the Beach
Valencia is one of my favorite cities in Spain. We visited in June which was too hot so I hope to go back in May one day.
Weather in Valencia in May
With mild temperatures and plenty of sunshine, May is a great month to visit Valencia. In May, the average temperature ranges from 17°C to 24°C (63°F to 75°F), with 8 hours of sunshine per day. The sea temperature is also rising, making swimming in the Mediterranean possible.
Pros and Cons of Visiting Valencia in May
If you visit Valencia in May, you will find fewer tourists and lower prices than during the peak summer season. Keep in mind that the popular Las Fallas festival occurs in March, so some of the city’s attractions may still be recovering from the festivities.
Things to Do in Valencia in May
There is plenty to see and do in Valencia in May. The City of Arts and Sciences, a complex of futuristic buildings designed by Santiago Calatrava, is one of the top attractions. You can also take a stroll through the Jardines del Turia, a park built on a former riverbed, or visit Mercado Central, one of Europe’s largest indoor markets.
If you want to learn more about Valencia, check out my 2-Day Valencia Itinerary.
Beaches in Valencia
If you want to spend some time at the beach, go to Malvarrosa or El Cabanyal. Both provide ample sand, sun, and sea, as well as beachfront restaurants and bars. With the sea temperature beginning to rise, it is the ideal time to go for a swim or simply relax on the beach.
In conclusion, May in Valencia offers mild temperatures, plenty of sunshine, and fewer crowds than the peak summer season. There are plenty of things to see and do, from the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences to the beautiful beaches of Malvarrosa and El Cabanyal.
Holidays in Spain in May
May is an excellent month for experiencing some of Spain’s diverse culture and traditions. Labor Day, which falls on May 1st, is one of the most important holidays in May. This is a public holiday in Spain, thus many shops and attractions may be closed.
It is, however, an opportunity to watch a variety of rallies and demonstrations for workers’ rights and social justice, which may be extremely intriguing to view.
Another popular May celebration is the Feria de Abril in Seville, which begins in late April and lasts through the first week of May. This vibrant festival includes flamenco dancing, bullfighting, and plenty of food and drink. It’s a terrific opportunity to learn about Andalusian culture while also having fun with the people.
Furthermore, May is the month of the well-known Cordoba Patio Festival, during which inhabitants open their patios and courtyards to the public and decorate them with lovely flowers.
This festival is an excellent opportunity to discover the picturesque city of Cordoba and enjoy the beauty of classic Spanish architecture and design.
The Madrid Book Fair, the Barcelona Beer Festival, and the Gaudi Festival in Barcelona, which honors the works of legendary Catalan architect Antoni Gaudi, are among the important events in May.
Overall, there are numerous possibilities in May to immerse yourself in Spain’s unique culture and traditions, and these festivals and holidays can be a highlight of any trip to Spain.
The ideal length of stay in Spain in May depends on what you want to see and do. If you’re interested in exploring multiple cities and regions, then a two-week trip might be ideal. This would give you enough time to visit popular destinations like Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, and Valencia, as well as smaller towns and villages in between.
A week-long trip, on the other hand, may be more suitable if you’re looking for a more relaxed and romantic getaway. You could spend a few days in a bustling city like Barcelona or Madrid before heading to a more tranquil coastal town like Sitges or San Sebastian for some beach time and relaxation.
You could also base yourself in one place, such as Andalusia, and take day trips to nearby attractions and towns. I am heading to San Sebastian. this May and I can not wait to share it with you guys.
Finally, the ideal length of stay in May in Spain is determined by your preferences and interests. To make the most of your time in this beautiful and diverse country, it’s always a good idea to do your research and plan ahead of time.
