The weather may be taking a turn for the cloudy, but even November is a great month to visit Spain. What you’ll miss on a beach holiday you’ll make up for with visits to some of Spain’s historic towns and cities. Andalusia, Madrid, the Basque Country, and the Mediterranean islands are awaiting your arrival.
## Spain in November: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
November in Spain marks the transition to late fall, a season characterized by increasing rainfall and the occasional storm. While Spain is renowned for its sunshine, particularly along the Mediterranean coast, November brings more cloudy and wet days to many regions. For travelers considering a trip to **Basque Country**, it’s important to note that offshore storms often make landfall along the northern Atlantic coast, impacting this region with the greatest intensity. This area also experiences some of the cooler temperatures in Spain during November. Cities such as **San Sebastián** and **Bilbao** typically see average high temperatures in the low 60s Fahrenheit (around 15-17°C), with nighttime temperatures dropping into the mid-40s (around 7°C). Therefore, packing layers is highly recommended to stay comfortable throughout the day and evening.
Further inland, **Madrid** experiences slightly cooler conditions than the northern regions. The average high temperature in Madrid during November is around 59°F (15°C), with nighttime lows dipping into the low 40s Fahrenheit (around 5°C). Even in coastal cities like **Barcelona** and the popular island of **Ibiza**, temperatures are generally too cool for traditional beach activities. Average high temperatures in these locations typically hover in the low to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 16-18°C). If your primary goal is to soak up the sun and perhaps even take a dip in the sea, your best bet is to head south to the **Andalusia** region or to the **Canary Islands**. These southern locales often experience temperatures peaking in the 70s Fahrenheit (around 21-26°C), offering a more favorable climate for sunbathing and potential swimming.
One of the notable advantages of traveling to Spain in November is the significant decrease in tourist crowds. While Spain’s beauty ensures a steady stream of visitors year-round, November sees a considerable thinning of the throngs. This means you’ll have a more relaxed experience exploring the country’s iconic landmarks without the congestion of peak season. You can wander through the museums of Madrid and Barcelona at a more leisurely pace, marvel at the architectural wonders of the **City of Arts and Sciences** in **Valencia** with fewer people around, and appreciate the grandeur of the ancient basilicas and plazas scattered throughout the country without the constant jostling of large crowds. This quieter atmosphere allows for a more immersive and authentic experience of Spain’s rich cultural heritage.
Beyond the reduced crowds, November also offers the advantage of lower travel costs. As the peak tourist season winds down, airlines and hotels often offer significant discounts to attract visitors. With the exception of All Saints Day (more details below), November doesn’t typically feature any major holidays that drive up prices. As a result, you can often find cheap flights throughout most of the month, making it an affordable time to travel to Spain. Additionally, you can expect to find discounts of up to 30% or even more on hotel accommodations in major cities across the country. This combination of lower prices and fewer crowds makes November an attractive option for budget-conscious travelers who still want to experience the beauty and culture of Spain.
When considering where to go in Spain during November, the southern region of Andalusia stands out as an excellent choice. The summer months in Andalusia can be characterized by oppressive heat, making walking tours of historic cities like **Málaga**, **Córdoba**, and **Seville** a potentially exhausting endeavor. November, however, offers a much more comfortable climate for exploring these cultural gems. While a drive along **Marbella** and the **Costa del Sol** might be appealing, a sudden rain shower could diminish the enjoyment of the coastal scenery. Therefore, it’s wise to focus road-tripping plans on the interior of Andalusia, where there are plenty of fascinating sites to discover. The ancient mountaintop city of **Ronda**, with its dramatic setting and rich history, is a particularly compelling destination for a November itinerary. Its stunning views and unique atmosphere make it an unforgettable stop.
Even if the weather takes a turn for the worse, Spain’s historic cities retain their charm and appeal. Although some days might be characterized by rain and gloom, Madrid remains a worthwhile destination, even with the cooler temperatures. The vibrant fall foliage on display in **El Retiro Park** provides a compelling reason to visit, offering a visual spectacle of autumnal colors. And if rain does become an issue, Madrid boasts a wealth of indoor attractions to explore, such as the world-renowned **Museo de Prado**, home to an impressive collection of European art. Similarly, in Barcelona, you can escape the rain and immerse yourself in culture at the **Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya**, showcasing Catalan art from various periods, and the **Picasso Museum**, dedicated to the works of the legendary Spanish artist.
If your heart is set on a beach vacation, the **Canary Islands** are likely the most reliable option in November. **Tenerife**, in particular, tends to experience higher temperatures during the day than most other parts of Spain, often reaching into the mid-70s Fahrenheit (around 24°C). While the water may still be a bit chilly for some, those determined to take a swim can certainly brave the sea. Furthermore, many days in Tenerife are blessed with clear skies, providing the perfect conditions for sunbathing and soaking up the island’s radiant energy.
Beyond sun and sand, Tenerife offers other exciting activities, including whale watching. The waters around the Canary Islands are home to resident pods of pilot whales and bottlenose dolphins throughout the year, making November as good a time as any to embark on a whale-watching tour. If you are interested in spotting migratory sperm whales, consider heading to **Tarifa**, located on the southernmost tip of Andalusia. This town offers boat tours that venture off the coast in search of these magnificent creatures.
For those with a penchant for fine spirits, a visit to Andalusia in early November is a must. This region hosts its annual week-long celebration of sherry, a fortified wine with a rich history and unique character. The festival is a lively affair filled with sherry tastings, sherry pairing menus, sherry cocktails, and a wide array of other sherry-themed events.
Several significant events take place in Spain during November, adding to the cultural richness of the month.
**All Saints Day, nationwide:** Celebrated on November 1st, this is a national holiday dedicated to honoring deceased relatives and friends. Businesses are typically closed, and many Spaniards observe the day by placing flowers on the graves of their loved ones, creating a poignant and beautiful tribute.
**International Sherry Week, Jerez de la Frontera:** This annual event, usually held in early November, takes place in **Jerez de la Frontera**, the Andalusian city where sherry originated. The week-long celebration features sherry tastings, culinary pairings, and other themed events.
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