Spain in May | Weather, Activities & More

October 9, 2023

Oye! If you’re planning to visit Spain in May, then you couldn’t have chosen a better month as the warm weather is amazing. We can compare it to Goldilocks porridge: not too hot or cold, but just right.

Not only is this time of year ideal for the weather, but it’s a time with the most exciting events and celebrations. Street festivals and colorful parades are happening everywhere, and you can take in multi-city activities all month long. 

Even if you’ll be on a 10-day trip to Spain, the stunning weather sure won’t get in the way, and you’ll make the most of your time there. 

To get you started, we’ve put together a guide to help you navigate Spain in May, as well as all the fun activities you can do. 

Spain Weather in May

Spain in May has really lovely weather, making it the perfect time to explore the country. It’s that sweet spot between spring and early summer, with temperatures ranging from a comfy 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). 

You’ll love the mild climate, with little rain and lots of sunshine all across Spain. We noticed places like Barcelona and Valencia on the coast getting even warmer, with the sea inviting you for beach activities like swimming and sunbathing on a catamaran cruise.

Spain’s weather changes drastically from one side to another, so places like the Sierra Nevada on the mountains can feel a bit nippy. That said, we had a great Spanish experience no matter where we went in the country, and you will too.

Weather in Northern Spain

Unlike other regions, Northern Spain’s climate can get pretty changey. Coastal cities like San Sebastian and Santander enjoy the moderating influence of the Atlantic, so it makes going to the beach a joy. 

Expect occasional rain showers and varying cloud cover, especially inland. So, when exploring northern Spain in May, embrace the sunny days, occasional rain showers, and lush, green landscapes.

Don’t let the showers rain on your parade because there’s still a lot you can do for fun. For instance, you can go on a guided food tour and enjoy the world-famous Spanish wine. 

Pro tip: Carry a compact umbrella and a waterproof jacket to stay dry and comfortable.

Weather in Southern Spain

A-group-of-people-on-a-boat-in-Seville

The south is generally warm and pleasant, with long, sunny days and low chances of rainfall. Temperatures in May can range from the 70s to low 80s°F (mid-20s to high 20s°C), making it an ideal time to visit. 

We especially enjoyed coastal areas like Costa del Sol and Costa de la Luz, which offer refreshing sea breezes, perfect for spending time at the beach. 

Inland cities like Seville and Granada can get slightly hotter, but their rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture make up for it.

Pro tip: For the best food in Seville, check out their tapas. Do your best not to leave the country without sampling a few delectables there. 

What to Pack for Spain in May

water-fountain-for-seville-plaza

In many parts of Spain, May feels almost like summer. We found that wearing light, airy fabrics was most comfortable, and these let our skin breathe. While flip-flops are appropriate for the beach, we rarely saw locals wearing them in the city.

Instead, we wore sandals with sturdy soles in their place because of the amount of walking we had to do, which you might too. If you’re traveling to the north, layering your clothing is a good idea because the weather can be somewhat erratic. You should also include an umbrella in case it rains.

Quick tip: While we love soaking up the sun, we must say that being in the sun for longer than 15 minutes without any protection can give you a nasty burn.

Best Places to Visit in Spain in May

Spain’s weather in May offers longer days, a mild climate, and clear, beautiful skies. After the winter, there’s no shortage of things to do as fabulous beach locations reopen and cities come alive with festivals. It’s the best time to visit and discover some of Spain’s most popular cities or unwind on the beach because the weather won’t fall below 20°F.

Córdoba, Andalucia

beige-castle-during-nightime

In May, Córdoba City comes to life and transforms into a colorful display for a month as the town is covered with thousands of beautiful flowers. We enjoyed the fresh scent of orange blossoms in the air and the stunning sight of petals of all colors around the city.

We really enjoyed sightseeing here. This is because the town has a unique appeal due to the long history of coexistence between Christians, Gypsies, Jews, and Muslims. You’ll see the cultural fusions left by these groups in spectacular architecture, such as the Mezquita or the Alcázar Palace.

Girona, Catalonia

Girona is a hidden treasure in Catalonia despite occasionally being overshadowed by its bigger brother, Barcelona. This little town taught us to enjoy the simple things in life, like visiting laid-back cafes and pubs. 

It generally has delightful spring weather with a mix of sunshine, occasional showers, and blooming nature, perfect for being outside. 

Take a stroll around the historic walls or simply take in the view of the Casas de l’Onyar, the vibrant residences along the river.

Fun fact: Some Game of Thrones scenes were shot in Girona. Why not go on a private guided tour, and learn how this town was transformed into Braavos and King’s Landing?

Bilbao, Basque Country

Boat-cruise-in-Bilbao

Bilbao should be on your travel itinerary if you want to spend a few days dining at some of the best restaurants in the world. 

We tried many culinary delights, such as pintxos and other flavorful Basque cuisine. The food was full of bold, spicy flavors, and the seafood was incredibly fresh and succulent. We had a true gastronomic adventure that left lasting memories.

For sightseeing, the famed Mercado de la Ribera and the church are both located in Bilbao. We loved strolling through the city center as the streets were certainly made for walking. They’re wide and lined with shops and cafes, so it’s a great place to grab a bite or do some window shopping.

Final Thoughts on Spain in May

As you’ve seen, there are plenty of exciting things to do in Spain in May. We hope you enjoy Córdoba’s blooming streets, Girona’s fascinating sights, and Basque cuisine in Bilbao.

Remember to pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella for potential rain. If packing is not your strongest suit, you can use this handy packing guide for what to wear in Spain.

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