Hi all! I went to Europe a couple of years ago and had a blast! You guys gave awesome advice, and your perspectives on the cities and regions were absolutely true. For example, the train from Venice to Salzburg was the most scenic and memorable trek I made on the trip. Love Austria! Now I'm planning a second trip in May or late August. I'm trying to hit Madrid and Barcelona in a week. I've read different things about going in May and August-September. I went to Europe in early September and loved it. So, I've come to you guys for advice. Which month is better to visit Madrid and Barcelona? Thanks again!
Posted by
Madrid, Madrid, Spain
80 posts
I'd actually recommend May for both Madrid and Barcelona - unless you plan to spend time at the Barcelona beaches, of course. Barcelona in August can be very hot and uncomfortably humid. Madrid in August can be hotter - yet drier - although at the end of August it tends to lighten up just a little. Don't expect rain in Madrid in August, but can rain in Barcelona due to the high humidity. May is a good month for both cities as the weather is more comfortable - although you're likely to see a little rain in Madrid and, probably, a little more in Barcelona. You'll also find fewer tourists in both cities in May - which is a good thing. Rick Steves suggests doing your European travel during "The shoulder months" - which includes may - for these same reasons above. Saludos, MadridMan - AND BarcelonaMan - @ you-know-where!
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23626 posts
August will be hot to potentially very hot. Go in May or Sept/Oct.
Posted by
Port Coquitlam, BC, Canada
629 posts
I agree with above posts - go in May. August is too hot for even the locals that is why they head north or underground!
Posted by
Port St Joe Florida
513 posts
I would not go anywhere near Spain in August! I spent a couple weeks in Madrid and Barcelona last October and the weather was perfect. If May or August are your only choices - definitely choose May!
Posted by
Marin, CA
532 posts
We enjoyed perfect weather in the end of May in Madrid.
Posted by
Baltimore
28 posts
May it is! Thanks for the advice. I've been trying to decide between visiting Spain or Amsterdam and northern Europe.