Spain is Europe’s second-most visited nation and in 2019, the country welcomed 83.7 million travelers. The Iberian nation attracts visitors from all over the globe seeking warm beach escapes and resorts with non-stop activities at their fingertips.
Spain offers visitors a variety of holiday options. In the south, travelers can enjoy beach vacations on the Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and Costa Brava. Travelers to the north of Spain explore the more rugged regions of the Basque Country and Galicia. Spain’s Balearic Islands are popular getaways for partygoers, backpackers, and budget-conscious travelers seeking a great time. All in all, Spain is a country packed with a variety of vacation options and each possible holiday provides travelers with something unique.
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History lovers, culture vultures, and foodies all have something to love about Spain. City’s like Barcelona, Granada, Sevilla, and Madrid are packed with iconic landmarks. Each region of the country has its own unique cuisines, giving you the chance to dine on one-of-a-kind meals.
Of course, Spain’s popularity for travel leads to large crowds descending on the country. It can be difficult to avoid crowds. However, with a little bit of planning you can visit Spain and avoid the crowds. So, what is the best time to visit Spain in 2021 and beyond? Let us have a look.
Best time to visit Spain in 2021 for the weather
Spain experiences high levels of tourism throughout the year. However, summer in Spain sees the largest numbers of travelers arrive in the country. The most popular tourist areas at this time are the southern coastal regions and the Balearic Islands. Travelers visit these areas for beach and resort holidays. The regions are also known for having great nightlife with bars, nightclubs, and dance clubs that do not close until the sun comes up. If you want to avoid the crowds, then do not go when the weather is at its warmest from June to August.
The great thing about Spain’s southern regions and the Balearic Islands is that it doesn’t get too cold in the winter. Sure, you won’t want to go swimming in the Mediterranean Sea in December off the coast of Majorca, but it is still incredibly comfortable and the crowds are low at this time. From a personal experience, there is nothing better than hanging out at cafes on the beach during a sunny December day on Majorca.
The best time to visit Spain in 2021 is in the late spring or early autumn. These seasons offer comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds. April and May are ideal for travelers looking for a holiday break pre-summer to avoid the crowds. If you want a post-summer holiday, then book a trip to Spain for September or October.
Best time to visit Spain in 2021 for price
Spain is a diverse country with a variety of cities, towns, and regions providing very different experiences. You can find a great holiday year-round in Spain. It simply depends on where you choose to book your trip.
The beach areas of Spain are at their most popular when the sun comes out and the weather gets warmer. Summer is popular with travelers going to Spain’s southern coastal regions. Therefore, the prices will be higher at this point. Offseason in winter are great times to book holidays to the southern coastal regions and resorts.
One of the most important tips for traveling to Spain is that prices can fluctuate at certain points that would seem off peak. Why does this occur? Some schools around Europe have half-term breaks (these provide kids a full week off school). England, for example, gives pupils a week off every six weeks. Therefore, families tend to book week-long holidays during this time and prices can sky-rocket for resorts and getaways in Spain.
Not only does the spring and autumn offer comfortable temperatures, but they provide lower prices. March to May and September to November is when the savings are the best. The two time periods come before and after the summer tourist waves hit the most popular travel destinations in Spain. You will find fewer people and cheaper accommodation during these times. Along with lower priced accommodation, you will have more choice for places to book.
Best time to visit Spain in 2021: Cities vs. Islands
One of the big decisions you must make when booking a holiday is to decide on whether you want a city break or an island holiday. The two options offer very different vacations. Trips to city such as Madrid, Valencia, Barcelona, and Bilbao give you the chance to explore Spanish culture, cuisine, and major landmarks.
An island beach break delivers a different experience. Rather than have the abundant tourist attractions and culture to explore, you can spend your days on the beach and in the sea. Island resorts are very popular with travelers and an all-inclusive hotel means you don’t have to leave the grounds for the entire trip. A lot of travelers spend their entire vacation at the resort and do not associate with anyone or anything outside of it.
City or island?
Top: Barcelona
Under: Ibiza
Best time to visit Spain in 2021: Conclusion
Spain attracts tourists year-round thanks to its gorgeous resorts, coastal towns, and idyllic islands. The country’s diversity means you have a lot of choice when booking a holiday to Spain. Beaches, rugged mountains, islands, and major cities are all on tap. Each provides a different experience and avoiding crowds is possible depending on the time of year you book your trip.
Foodies, history buffs, and culture vultures have a lot to love about Spain. If you simply want a beach break at an all-inclusive resort that allows you to forget about everything, then there is that as well. A holiday to Spain is whatever you want it to be.
Research the region you want to visit and be ready to book off-peak to get some serious savings and to avoid other travelers. Summer is peak tourism season, so look for a great deal in the spring or summer; and don’t be afraid to spend some time in winter in the Balearic Islands.
