How is the weather in Spain in September? In one word: perfect! Signifying the end of summer and the arrival of fall, this month straddles the best of both seasons.
In general, the Spain weather in fall remains mild and sunny – certainly at the start. Early September in Spain picks up where August left off with hot daytime averages and warm evenings. It’s a slightly different kettle of fish in the northwest areas.
Fall isn’t quite the low season it once was. You should anticipate crowds during this month, especially at the start and at popular vacation destinations in Spain.
However, the main cities and resorts are a heck of a lot quieter in comparison with August.
A Quick Overview of the Weather in Spain in September
September is a welcome relief after the scorching weather in Spain in August.
September in Spain is warm and pleasant as blistering temperatures subside and summer crowds thin out.
The start of the month is similar to August and the temperatures gradually drop. If you’re traveling later in the month, you may need to add a light jacket and maybe an umbrella to your Spain packing list.
After being heated up by the fierce summer sun, the sea remains warm and swimmable.
- Average Temperature: The average daily temperatures in Spain in September range from 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F) subject to the region.
- Precipitation: September is a dry month. There is a higher chance of a rainy day towards the end of the month and the north is wetter across the month.
- Sea Temperature in Spain in September: The Mediterranean Sea is often at its hottest with temperatures ranging from 21-26°C (70-79°F) while the Atlantic Ocean bobs around 20°C (68°F).
Many consider early fall the best time to visit Spain.
The weather in Spain in September is perfect for exploring the Great Outdoors and soaking up the last of the summer rays. It will feel warm and comfortable and you can anticipate spending the whole day out and about – siesta optional.
The weather in Spain in September is perfect for wandering the cities, still enjoying some beach time, and getting up into the mountains.
How does the September weather in Spain compare?
September is an ideal time for your first trip to Spain. The weather is cracking and you can strike a healthy balance between cultural attractions, beach days, and hopping around tapas bars.
Consult our comprehensive month-by-month guides to the weather in Spain as part of your research to see how September compares.
Weather in Barcelona in September: A Belter of a Month
The weather in Barcelona in September gets off to a hot start and gradually cools to warm and fresh. You’ll experience temperatures in the 20s every day and feel the intensity of the midday sun.
Families and the bulk of summer tourists wilt away as the city transitions toward fall. September is dry but you might encounter occasional showers as October approaches. But don’t worry – you’ll stay dry in the museums.
- Average Temperature: The weather in Barcelona in September sees highs of 26°C (79°F) and lows of 20°C (68°F).
- Precipitation: Rain is likelier at the end of the month. 40 mm of rainfall affects nine days on average.
- Sea Temperature: It’s still warm enough to swim with lows of 21°C (71.5°F) and highs of 26°C (79°F).
- Activities: Go swimming at the nearby beaches of Badalona. Partake in the celebrations for Fiesta de la Mercè – there are tons of cultural events making this one of the best free things to do in Barcelona. Catch FC Barcelona play an early-season match at their home ground.
The southern region and the islands of Spain are still nice and warm in September.
Northern Spain: Rainy Days and Endless Wine
The northern cities and regions receive the coolest Spain weather in autumn. After a slight lull in precipitation over summer, rainfall picks up toward the end of September and can bring damp conditions.
But don’t let this deter you. Northern Spain in September is delightfully atmospheric thanks to its temperate oceanic climate that brings moody moments and all shades of green.
- Average Temperature: Conditions vary quite substantially with lows of 12°C (53.5°F) and highs of 26.5°C (80°F).
- Precipitation: Bilbao typically sees 76 mm, San Sebastián experiences 110 mm, and Santiago de Compostela sees 125 mm. Most of this occurs at the end of the month but it could rain any day.
- Sea Temperature: The Atlantic remains a swimmable 20°C (68°F) although it will feel cooler as the air temperatures slide.
- Activities: There’s no better time to tackle the Camino de Santiago hiking routes. September sees the start of the harvest season in the northern wine regions of Rioja, Galicia, Catalonia, and Ribera del Duero.
Málaga and the Costa del Sol: Warm Welcome to Fall
September is the best time to visit Málaga, Marbella, and the Costa del Sol (the location of the best beach towns in Spain!).
You can anticipate spending days on the sand, enjoying sailing trips, hiking, and exploring historic sites. The temperature is very warm but it eases off after a sweltering August.
Summer crowds disperse and you’re unlikely to see a drop of rain.
- Average Temperature: After the crazy highs of July and August, Málaga settles back to a comfortable daytime average high of 28°C (82°F). Evenings rarely fall below 18°C (64.5°F).
- Precipitation: A rainier September will see rainfall amounting to no more than 20 mm across sporadic showers.
- Sea Temperature: Warmed by the summer sun, the waters of the Costa del Sol maintain a welcoming average of 24°C (75°F) for most of September.
- Activities: Lay down your towel on some of the best Costa del Sol beaches without feeling squashed! Take a day trip to Mollina for the annual Grape Harvest Festival (Fiesta de la Vendimia) at the start of the month.
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- September in Spain is a fantastic time of year to explore.
Valencia: Fall Sunshine and Scattered Showers
Valencia sees some of the best weather in Spain in September. The daytime temperature is pleasant and you’ll only need to think about a light layer towards the end of the month.
The one thing to note is that rainfall is more probable in this region. However, it’s not likely to hinder your experience if you’re spending a couple of days in Valencia.
- Average Temperature: Lows of 18°C (64.5°F) and highs of 28°C (82°F).
- Precipitation: Rain can be quite high in Valencia but it varies year to year with average highs of 45 mm.
- Sea Temperature: Generally around 24-25°C (75-77°F) with highs of 26°C (79°F).
- Activities: Slow down at Valencia’s tapas bars or sign up for a food tour – fall is the season for getting educated! It’s a great month to get stuck into the cultural things to do in Valencia: start your day at a museum then head to a park or beach when it gets hotter.
Madrid: Beautiful Weather for a First-time Visit
The weather in Madrid in September is similar to that of Barcelona. The start of the month sees hotter highs with temperatures petering off as October approaches.
It’s one of the best times of year to visit the Spanish capital. Shoot for the middle of the month as this is when the weather settles and the city returns to normalcy after summer.
- Average Temperature: It fluctuates but balances out at a mean of 22°C (71.5°F) with warm evenings.
- Precipitation: A meager 20 mm.
- Activities: Make the most of the mild autumn weather in Madrid in September by roaming the wonderful Madrid neighborhoods and appreciating the street art in La Latina and Lavapiés. Pepper your city stint with a couple of day trips from Madrid for a broader perspective of the region.
Madrid is wonderful in September not only is the weather great, but the city is alive with activity.
Alicante: Awesome Weather in Spain in September
Southeastern Spain weather in autumn feels like an extension of summer. The conditions are balmy but better for active pursuits or vacationing with younger, pre-school children.
If you fancy an end-of-season beach holiday you’ll find great deals in the Costa Blanca beach towns in September.
- Average Temperature: The average is 24°C (75°F) with welcome highs of 29°C (84°F) in the afternoon.
- Precipitation: As part of the Valencian Community, Alicante is a tad wetter than its southerly neighbors. Rainfall tends to fall between 20-40 mm.
- Sea Temperature: Dive straight into 24/26°C (75/79°F).
- Activities: September is an awesome time for hiring a car in Alicante and venturing along the coast. It’s less than an hour’s drive to Torrevieja where you’ll see the salt lakes twinkling pink and emerald under the soft sun.
Almería: Sunny and Dry Spain Weather in September
Almería is a fantastic choice of fall destination in Spain. The city starts to cool off and is particularly appealing from the middle of September as you can split your time between the desert and the sea.
It’s warm in the evening and the sea breeze is always welcome after a fluke heatwave.
- Average Temperature: 25°C (77°F) is the norm with highs of 29°C (84°F).
- Precipitation: An average of one day of rain equates to 10 mm for the month
- Sea Temperature: It’s a little cooler compared to other places but still warm at 22/24°C (71.5/75°F).
- Activities: Take a day trip to Tabernas Desert, the “Wild West” of Spain. It’s far safer after the heat of August. On a hotter day, swap the dunes for sea caves on a Cabo de Gata sailing trip.
Madrid in September is perfect, not too hot, but warm enough to enjoy rooftop drinks and dining al fresco.
Seville: Shimmering Autumnal Skies
Many consider July and August the worst time to visit Spain, especially the landlocked cities. That really does apply to Seville as the city is unbearably hot.
September is still hotter than other parts of the country but it’s more comfortable and the streets are quieter. This is a great time to plan a vacation in Seville combining culture and day trips around other parts of Andalucia.
- Average Temperature: Ranges from lows of 18°C (64.5°F) to highs of 32°C (89.5°F).
- Precipitation: Seville in September stays dry with the odd shower leveling out at 19 mm.
- Activities: Check if your dates coincide with the Bienal de Flamenco Festival. It’s held biennially on even-numbered years (so, 2024, 2026…). Flamenco performances are held nightly at all other times. Otherwise, this is the best month to explore the outdoor attractions of Seville.
Weather in Ibiza in September: A Change in Tempo
Ibiza is at its hottest and busiest in July and August. The Balearic Islands receive the most glorious weather in Spain in September: warm, sunny, and little rain.
This month also sees the partygoers clear out and the island starts its seasonal wind-down. This is a wonderful time to visit Ibiza for a relaxing holiday with a partner, friends, or alone.
- Average Temperature: Highs of 29°C (84°F) at the start of the month and highs of 25°C (77°F) by the end.
- Precipitation: There’s usually 20-30 mm of rain in September.
- Sea Temperature: These sit between 24-26°C (75-79°F).
- Activities: As prices drop, check out what deals you can get on Ibiza hotels around the island. Ibiza is so expensive – especially in summer – but later in September things become a little more affordable. It’s the perfect excuse for a week poolside or on the beach.
Explore the smaller towns and cities in Spain during September when there are far fewer tourists than in the summer months.
Canary Islands: Summer’s Not Over Yet
The weather in the Canary Islands is mild and stable throughout the year and early fall is only a few degrees cooler than summer.
September is more appealing for the reduction in crowds. The popular islands of Tenerife, Fuerteventura, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote become calmer.
As the Canary Islands is the warmest place in Spain in winter, you may actually prefer to wait until it’s quieter and enjoy the fine fall conditions on the mainland.
- Average Temperature: 27ºC (80ºF) during the day. Evenings drop to 21°C (70°F).
- Precipitation: Minimal with an average of 10 mm across the archipelago.
- Sea Temperature: The air temperature is a tad cooler but the Atlantic Ocean is its hottest: 24/25°C (75/77°F).
- Activities: Go grape picking during the wine harvest. Take your pick from adventurous activities: surfing, scuba diving, and volcano trekking are better this month as the islands fall emptier.
It is still hot at siesta time in southern Spain in September, so be sure to head to the beach to cool off.
What else is happening in Spain in September?
Besides checking out the weather in Spain in September, there are a couple of dates to hitch your travel plans to.
Fiesta de la Mercè: This religious festival takes place in Barcelona in honor of Our Lady of Mercy – the Virgin of Grace. It’s one of the most famous festivals in Spain’s Catalan region and sees huge parades, fire spectacles, and “human towers” of up to 10 people.
Rioja Wine Harvest Festival: Wine takes center stage in the green north during September in Spain. Also known as the San Mateo Festival, the annual festival brings parades, music, and food activities to Logroño.
Ibiza Burlesque Festival: This one-of-a-kind festival takes place over a weekend in the middle of the month. Expect DJs, dancers, and epic costumes.