When to Go

Madrid is hot and dry in summer—with temperatures reaching 40ºC (105°F) in July and August—and chilly and damp in winter, with minimum temperatures around 1ºC (low 30s). Snow in the city is rare. The most pleasant time to visit is spring, especially May, when the city honors its patron saint with street fairs and celebrations. June and September–December are also fine times to visit.

Avoid Madrid in July and August—especially August as locals flee the punishing heat and head to the coast or to the mountains and many restaurants, bars, and shops are closed. Winter is a pleasant time to visit, if you don't mind bundling up a bit in the evenings.