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

October is a great time to visit Spain. The summer crowds have dispersed, making it more enjoyable to explore popular destinations without feeling overwhelmed by tourists. Temperatures are comfortable across most regions, warm enough for spending time outdoors, but cooler than the hot summer months, especially in the evenings. The fall foliage also begins transforming landscapes with vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows, painting beautiful backdrops for sightseeing. With fewer crowds and desirable weather, October is arguably among the best months to vacation in Spain.

While Spain's diverse geography means temperatures can vary quite a bit across regions, most areas enjoy pleasantly warm weather in October. The interior regions like Madrid may see daytime highs around 65°F to 75°F, with cooler evenings dipping into the 40s and 50s. The Mediterranean coastal areas from Barcelona down to Andalusia typically range from 70°F to 80°F during the day. The north, including the Basque Country and Galicia, is a bit more unpredictable, with potential rain and highs of 60°F to 70°F. No matter where you go, layers are recommended as Spain's fall ushers in sunnier days punctuated by occasional showers.

Seville • Best Place for Sightseeing

With its mild, sunny climate and lack of crowds, Seville is an ideal sightseeing destination in October. Explore the winding medieval lanes of the Santa Cruz quarter and the breathtaking Alcázar palace without battling summer's intense heat. Take in iconic landmarks like the massive Gothic cathedral and Plaza de España at a relaxed pace. Evening temperatures hovering around 60°F make it pleasant for lingering at outdoor cafés and experiencing Seville's lively tapas culture. The nearby white villages of Andalusia also offer excellent day-trip opportunities amid fall's arrival in the countryside.

Costa del Sol • Best Place for Great Weather

The sun-drenched Costa del Sol along southern Spain's Málaga province is a prime spot for great weather in October. Iconic beach towns like Marbella and Estepona enjoy abundant sunshine and average highs of 75°F to 80°F. The cool Mediterranean breezes take the edge off, creating perfect conditions for you to enjoy the Costas' many outdoor activities, from golf and tennis to sailing and hiking. The water temperatures also remain quite pleasant in the upper 60s Fahrenheit. With very little rainfall, you can count on idyllic weather for relaxing on the beaches or exploring coastal villages like Nerja or Frigiliana.

Madrid • Best Place for Families with Children

Madrid shines as a family destination in the fall month of October, when warm, sunny days are the norm and crowds are minimal. Your kids will be entertained by the city's large green spaces, like Buen Retiro Park with its rowing pond and puppet shows. The Prado Museum offers excellent child-friendly tours to spark their imaginations, including art workshops, storytelling, and scavenger hunts. Evening fun includes theater performances or sampling the local favorite treat, chocolate con churros. With moderate temperatures, it's also a perfect time to explore Madrid's plazas and outdoor cafés.

Galicia • Best Place to Avoid the Crowds

If you are looking to dodge the crowds in Spain in October, the northwestern region of Galicia is an ideal choice. With its rugged Atlantic coastline, quaint fishing villages, and lush, green interior, Galicia sees far fewer visitors than Catalunya or Andalusia. The cooler, rainier weather deters some, but Galicia offers an authentic slice of Spanish culture largely devoid of tourist mobs. Explore the centuries-old pilgrimage town of Santiago de Compostela, the Roman wall-enveloped city of Lugo, or wander the coastal inlets and fjord-like rías without fighting throngs of summer vacationers. October's lower season also yields more alluring prices and availability.

San Sebastián • Best Place for Couples or Honeymooners

The chic seaside city of San Sebastián in Spain's Basque Country is a dream destination for couples and honeymooners in October. With its Baroque churches, Belle Époque architecture, and romantic winding streets, San Sebastián oozes old-world European charm. Famed for its exceptional pintxos bars and Michelin-starred restaurants, it's a foodie paradise for lingering over incredible meals and local txakoli wines. Stroll the scenic La Concha beach promenade, explore nearby fishing villages, or take a winery tour through the lush Rioja wine region for romantic memories of a lifetime. The mild fall climate makes it comfortable for outdoor activities and cozy evenings along the picturesque harborfront.

Harvest Festivals and Wine Tastings

In Spain in October, you can immerse yourself in the annual grape harvest celebrations. From the famed Rioja region to lesser-known areas like Ribera del Duero, wineries and towns host lively festivals with music, dancing, food pairings, and plenty of vino. It's an incredible opportunity to experience Spanish wine culture at its most vibrant. As you meander through the vineyards, you'll witness the time-honored traditions of harvesting grapes by hand, a labor-intensive process that has been passed down through generations. The festive atmosphere is infectious, with locals and visitors coming together to celebrate the hard work and dedication that goes into producing each bottle of renowned Spanish wine.

El Pilar Festival in Zaragoza

One of Spain's biggest festivals, El Pilar honors the city's patron saint with nine days of revelry. Join the massive processions, partake in the open-air dances and concerts, and experience the iconic "rain of petals" ceremony as thousands of flower petals cascade from the basilica. Join locals as the streets come alive with traditional music and the aromas of delectable Spanish cuisine. No matter where you turn, you'll be swept up in the infectious energy and rich cultural heritage that makes this festival a truly unforgettable experience.

Mushroom Foraging in Catalunya

With fall's arrival, mushroom hunting becomes a national pastime. In Catalunya, take a guided foraging tour through forests and countryside to identify edible (and poisonous) varieties. Afterward, savor your bounty with lunch at a rustic Catalan farmhouse. Led by experienced guides, you'll learn the art of mushroom hunting, a tradition passed down through generations, as you carefully navigate through the lush landscapes searching for the prized fungi. The sense of accomplishment is unparalleled as you gather your haul, ready to be transformed into mouthwatering dishes that celebrate the earthy flavors of the season.

Hiking Spain's Classic Caminos

October's mild, dry weather makes it ideal for hiking some of Spain's famed trails, like the Camino de Santiago or Camino del Rey. Follow these historic pilgrimage routes through scenic landscapes ablaze in fall colors. As you traverse the winding paths, you'll be enveloped by the breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and quaint villages that have stood the test of time. The crisp autumn air and the crunch of fallen leaves beneath your feet will be the perfect accompaniment to this rejuvenating journey, allowing you to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature's tranquility.

From harvest festivals to desirable weather conditions across most regions, Spain in October is a splendid time for a getaway. Fewer crowds, lower prices, and an authentic glimpse into local life make a fall visit all the more appealing and memorable. Whether you crave culture, cuisine, outdoor adventures, or relaxation, Spain delivers in October.

Discover even more inspiration for crafting your dream October trip to Spain in our Spain travel guide or Spain tours and vacations.