Spain Weather in October

The weather in Spain in October transitions subtly from the warmth of late summer to the cool embrace of fall. The weather is pleasantly mild throughout the country, with temperatures gradually dropping, creating a comfortable and pleasant atmosphere. Rains become more frequent, refreshing the land and contributing to lush and colorful landscapes.

Spain in October at a glance

  • Temperatures in October range from 50°F to 75°F (10°C to 24°C)
  • October sees a moderate increase in rainfall, especially in coastal and northern regions.
  • Rural landscapes transform into a tapestry of fall colors, and vineyards and olive groves display their seasonal splendor.
  • In October, you can expect fewer tourists and lower prices.

What is the weather like in Spain in October?

A delightful mix of weather conditions awaits you this month. Early in the day, you can enjoy crisp, sunny mornings, ideal for exploring Spain's historic towns and picturesque countryside. As the day progresses, the warmth lingers, perfect for outdoor activities and strolls through the vibrant fall scenery.

Toward evening, cool evening air sets in, creating a cozy atmosphere for relaxation. Even though in October there may be occasional rains, they are often short-lived and leave behind a refreshed landscape and fresh, invigorating air.

As dusk falls, the cooler temperatures tempt you to pop into a local café or restaurant. Imagine sipping a glass of deep, aromatic Spanish wine, basking in the warm glow of the fireplace, and watching the autumn landscape from your window.

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Santiago de Compostela, Spain ©  lkonya/Shutterstock

Santiago de Compostela, Spain ©  lkonya/Shutterstock

Average daily temperatures in October

The weather in Spain in October is mild and pleasant, creating ideal conditions for both active vacations and leisurely vacations.

In the south of Spain, regions such as Andalucia and the Costa del Sol enjoy pleasant October warmth. Average temperatures range from 64°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C). The summer heat has subsided, but the sun is still shining brightly, creating a comfortable atmosphere.

In central Spain, in cities such as Madrid and Toledo, October brings cooler weather. Temperatures here range from 54°F to 68°F (12°C to 20°C), allowing for sightseeing without the intense heat of summer.

In northern Spain, with its lush landscapes, the transition to cooler and wetter weather is most noticeable. Temperatures range from 52°F to 64°F (11°C to 18°C) and you can expect more frequent showers, especially in coastal areas.

In the Spanish islands, you can still get a taste of summer in October. In the Canary Islands, the subtropical climate provides warm weather with average temperatures ranging from 72°F to 77°F (22°C to 25°C). In the Balearic Islands, temperatures are also pleasant, ranging from 64°F to 73°F (18°C to 23°C).

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Sant Antoni Sunset, Ibiza, Balearic Islands

Sant Antoni Sunset, Ibiza, Balearic Islands

Is October a good time to visit Spain?

October is a great time to visit Spain. When the summer crowds of tourists fade away, you can enjoy more affordable accommodations and more relaxed vacations in Spain's iconic destinations.

Spain's cooler weather in October is perfect for exploring historic cities like Madrid and Barcelona, or traveling to the beautiful countryside and wine regions. The harvest season brings rich flavors to the local food and wines, making it the best time for food lovers.

Northern regions such as the Basque Country and Asturias showcase stunning fall colors and offer ideal conditions for hiking and scenic drives. Not insignificantly, October is also home to a number of cultural festivals and events, creating a lively atmosphere to complement Spain's architectural and natural beauty.

What about the crowd & cost?

In October in Spain, you'll find relatively few tourists and low prices compared to the peak summer months. Popular tourist destinations are less crowded and attractions are more accessible, plus both accommodation and flights are usually cheaper. 

However, if you are going to attend local festivals or events, some areas may see an influx of tourists. All things considered, October offers a balance of pleasant weather and lower prices, making it a great time to explore Spain.

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Church of the Incarnation in Alhama de Granada, Andalucia, Spain © Shutterstock

Church of the Incarnation in Alhama de Granada, Andalucia, Spain © Shutterstock

What to do in Spain in October

October in Spain means pleasant weather and a variety of activities that highlight the country's natural beauty and cultural richness. Here are some unique things to do this month:

Hike the Camino de Santiago

October is a great time to hike the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route. The weather becomes cooler and more comfortable for longer hikes. Enjoy scenic trails through lush landscapes and historic towns such as Sarria and Santiago de Compostela.

Discover the Caves of Drach

Explore the Drach Caves in Mallorca, where you can tour the stunning underground formations. October is the ideal time to visit as the crowds thin out in summer, allowing for a more relaxed visit to these breathtaking natural wonders.

Wander through the Alcázar of Seville

The Alcazar in Seville is a stunning palace with lush gardens and elaborate Moorish architecture. The cool October weather is the perfect time to explore the vast grounds and ornate rooms without the peak of the summer heat.

camino-de-santiago-navarra-spain-shutterstock_415000714

Camino de Santiago Navarra, Spain @ Shutterstock

Festivals and events in Spain in November

There are several festivals and events that take place in Spain during the month of October. Here are some of them:

  • Fiesta Nacional de España (October 12): Also known as Spain's National Day, this public holiday commemorates Christopher Columbus' first arrival in the Americas. The holiday includes parades, official ceremonies and cultural events throughout Spain.
  • Oktoberfest Barcelona (September 28 - October 14): This festival, held at the Fira de Barcelona, brings a taste of Munich to Spain with traditional Bavarian beer, food, music and dancing. Attendees will enjoy authentic German beer, sausages, pretzels and fun activities.

Ready for your dream trip to Spain?

Our tailor-made trip service allows you to take the trip of your dreams without the hassle and planning. All of our planned itineraries are created by local travel experts and can be customized to your specific needs.

  • A Madrid getaway (4 days): From delightful museums such as El Prado and Reina Sofia to exploring unknown corners with your private guide and a day tour of the neighborhoods, this itinerary brings together the best of Madrid.
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  • Spanish Honeymoon (10 days): Discover Andalucia, starting in the cultural city of Seville, then visit Cordoba and Granada, home to the stunning Alhambra Palace. Next, visit Granada and the Arab quarter of Albayzin, then enjoy an amazing hot air balloon ride and end your trip with a luxury yacht trip from Marbella!
Olga Sitnitsa

written by
Olga Sitnitsa

updated 27.08.2024

Online editor at Rough Guides, specialising in travel content. Passionate about creating compelling stories and inspiring others to explore the world.

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