Spain in May: Where to Go, What to Do, the Weather, & More

May brings several cultural events to Spain. You and your family can enjoy the Fiesta de Los Patios in Córdoba, a floral festival during which residents open their beautifully decorated patios to the public, or San Isidro in Madrid, which honors the city’s patron saint. The festivities include a pilgrimage to the saint's chapel, traditional music, dancing, and bullfighting, with locals dressed in traditional costumes. With fewer crowds than the peak summer months, May will give you a chance to immerse yourself in Spain's rich cultural heritage and lively celebrations.

In May, Spain experiences a delightful transition to warmer weather, with average daytime temperatures ranging from 68°F to 79°F across the country. This month is characterized by minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities. Coastal areas such as the Costa del Sol begin to warm up, with sea temperatures rising to around 64°F to 68°F. Cities like Málaga and Alicante can have sea temperatures of around 66°F to 70°F, and sunbathing is equally as enticing as swimming.

Barcelona • Best Place for Sightseeing

With its stunning architecture and vibrant culture, Barcelona is a fantastic city for sightseeing when visiting Spain in May. The pleasant spring weather allows for comfortable exploration of Gaudí's masterpieces, like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell. You can also enjoy strolls down Las Ramblas, indulge in tapas at La Boqueria market, and soak in panoramic views from Montjuïc. At this time of year, there are also fewer crowds than in the peak summer months, allowing you to explore Barcelona’s attractions more comfortably and peacefully. The mild May temperatures also make it an excellent time for day trips to nearby attractions like Montserrat Monastery.

Seville • Best Place for Great Weather

In May, the Andalusian capital Seville boasts warm, sunny days with average temperatures ranging from 59°F to 79°F. May falls just before the intense summer heat sets in, offering lovely conditions in which to wander through the city's charming streets and beautiful parks without discomfort. This pleasant climate will allow you to fully enjoy Seville's outdoor attractions, such as the stunning Plaza de España or the lush gardens of the Real Alcázar. The comfortable temperatures make it possible to dine al fresco in the evenings, savoring local cuisine in the city's vibrant plazas.

Valencia • Best Place for Families with Children

Valencia is a spectacular destination if you are visiting Spain in May with your children. The city dishes up a mix of cultural experiences and family-friendly attractions in comfortably warm weather. The centerpiece is the City of Arts and Sciences, a futuristic complex housing an interactive science museum, planetarium, and Europe's largest aquarium. May is also a good time to enjoy Valencia's beautiful beaches, like Playa de la Malvarrosa, where children who don’t mind chilly water can play safely in the calm Mediterranean. The expansive Turia Gardens, a former riverbed turned into a lush park, offers ample space for picnics, bike rides, and outdoor activities. With fewer crowds than in peak summer, May allows for a more relaxed family vacation in Valencia.

Asturias • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

Asturias is a hidden gem in northern Spain and the best place to avoid crowds in May. This lush region features stunning landscapes, from rugged coastlines to the peaks of the Picos de Europa, without the throngs of tourists found in more popular destinations. May brings mild temperatures that allow you to experience the region's natural beauty through hiking, cycling, or scenic drives in comfort. Wander through charming medieval towns like Oviedo and Llanes, enjoying authentic Asturian cuisine and sidra (cider) in peace. The region's beaches remain tranquil as the weather warms, while cultural attractions like the Paleolithic cave art of Tito Bustillo or the pre-Romanesque churches around Oviedo can be appreciated without jostling for space.

San Sebastián • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

San Sebastián in the Basque Country is the ultimate destination for couples and honeymooners in Spain during May. This elegant city is filled with romance, culture, and gastronomy. Stroll hand in hand along the crescent-shaped La Concha Beach, enjoy intimate picnics in Miramar Gardens, or watch stunning sunsets from Monte Igueldo, all while basking in the mild spring weather. May's pleasant temperatures are great for exploring the charming old town, where you can indulge in a pintxos crawl, sampling the city's world-renowned cuisine. From couples' spa treatments to wine-tasting tours, romantic experiences abound. The month also sees fewer tourists, allowing for a more private and authentic experience. Whether enjoying a Michelin-starred dinner or a quiet moment on Santa Clara Island, San Sebastián in May provides an unforgettable backdrop for love and connection.

Enjoy the Fiesta de Los Patios in Córdoba

In May, the Córdoba Patio Festival will give you the opportunity to discover the picturesque city's courtyards and patios, which are decorated with beautiful flowers. This event offers a glimpse into classic Spanish architecture and design while celebrating the city's cultural heritage. Wander through the narrow streets of the old town, marveling at the explosion of colors and fragrances as local residents open their intricately adorned patios to the public, competing for the coveted title of the most beautiful courtyard.

Attend the Madrid Book Fair

The Madrid Book Fair is held annually in May and remains a must if you are a book lover. Browse through a wide selection of literature, meet authors, and attend literary events. The fair also features food stalls and live music, creating a vibrant atmosphere for book enthusiasts. Set in the picturesque Retiro Park, this cultural event brings together hundreds of publishers, booksellers, and writers, offering you an opportunity to discover new titles, participate in book signings, and engage in stimulating literary discussions against the backdrop of one of Madrid's most beautiful green spaces.

Hike through the Sierra Nevada National Park

May is a fantastic time to explore the stunning Sierra Nevada National Park in Andalusia. Hike through wildflower-dotted landscapes and enjoy the mild temperatures before the summer heat arrives. Keep an eye out for the endangered Spanish lynx, one of the park's most elusive residents. The region’s diverse ecosystems, from Mediterranean forests to alpine tundra, offer you a chance to experience dramatic changes in vegetation and wildlife as they ascend from the foothills to the snow-capped peaks of mainland Spain's highest mountain range.

Discover the Vibrant Culture of Madrid during the Festival of San Isidro

The Festival of San Isidro on May 15 is a raucous celebration of Madrid's patron saint. Join locals in traditional garb as they dance the chotis, a 19th-century hybrid ballroom dance popularized in the city. The week-long festival includes live music, food, and plenty of revelry. You can also participate in the time-honored tradition of drinking water from the Saint Isidro fountain, said to have miraculous properties, while enjoying the lively atmosphere in Isidro Park and the surrounding Carabanchel neighborhood.

May is a fantastic month to visit Spain, offering pleasant weather, vibrant cultural events, and a mix of natural beauty and historic charm. Whether you're drawn to the lively festivals, scenic hikes, or peaceful beaches, May provides the ideal backdrop for any type of adventure. The country is alive with color and energy, making it the perfect time to explore.

For even more inspiration and detailed travel tips, be sure to check out our Spain travel guide or our Spain tours and vacations.