When to Go & Travel Tips
Spain’s seasons vary a lot by region, from very hot inland summers to mild winters in the south and on the Canary Islands. Seasons, trains, safety and entry rules are here.
When to go
April to June
Warm, sunny and a lovely time for cities and Andalusia before the heat. Easter week brings processions, crowds and higher prices.
July and August
Very hot inland, with Seville and Córdoba often topping 40°C, and busy beaches. The north and the coast are more comfortable. Wildfires are a summer risk.
September and October
Warm sea, softer heat and fewer crowds. A good time for almost every region.
November to March
Cool and quiet in the cities, mild in the south, and spring-like on the Canary Islands. Some coastal resorts close for the winter.
Current travel advice
The Government of Canada currently advises a high degree of caution in Spain, mainly because of the threat of terrorism. It has also reported unrest in some Spanish cities since October 2026, and advises avoiding large gatherings and following local media.
Check travel.gc.ca before you book and again before you fly. If the advice changes, I’ll talk it through with you and adjust the plan.
Getting there and entry
- Madrid and Barcelona are the main gateways, with non-stops from Canada to both, some of them seasonal. Málaga and Seville are handy for Andalusia.
- Spain is in the Schengen Area. Canadians do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days in any 180 days in the Schengen Area, and the EU Entry/Exit System registers you at the border. ETIAS is not in operation yet.
- Your passport must be valid for at least three months beyond the date you plan to leave the Schengen Area.
Getting around
- High-speed trains link Madrid with Barcelona, Seville, Córdoba, Málaga and Valencia. Book ahead for the best fares.
- A car is useful in the countryside and white villages of Andalusia, but not in the big cities. Traffic keeps to the right, and you need a Canadian licence plus an International Driving Permit.
- Several cities have low-emission zones that restrict which cars can enter, so check with the rental company.
Practical notes
- The currency is the euro (EUR).
- Barcelona, the rest of Catalonia and the Balearic Islands add a tourist tax to hotel stays.
- Pickpocketing is common in Madrid and Barcelona, especially on public transport and in busy tourist areas.
- Carry your passport or a photo ID at all times.
- Dial 112 for emergencies.
Entry rules and advisories change. Before you book and again before you fly, check travel.gc.ca.
Spain planning questions
Do Canadians need a visa for Spain?
Not for a holiday of up to 90 days in any 180 in the Schengen Area. You will be registered in the EU Entry/Exit System at the border. ETIAS is not in operation yet. Check travel.gc.ca before you book and again before you fly.
Is it safe to travel to Spain right now?
The Government of Canada currently advises a high degree of caution in Spain, mainly because of the threat of terrorism, and has reported unrest in some cities since October 2026. Avoid large gatherings, watch for pickpockets, and check travel.gc.ca before you book and again before you fly.
When is the best time to visit Spain?
April to June and September to October are best for most regions. July and August are very hot inland, while the north is cooler. Winter is mild in the south and on the Canary Islands.
How far ahead should I book the Alhambra?
As soon as your dates are set. Tickets are limited and often sell out weeks ahead, especially in spring and autumn.
How do I get around Spain?
High-speed trains are the easiest way between major cities, with Madrid to Barcelona or Seville in roughly two and a half hours. A car helps in rural Andalusia but is best avoided in the big cities.
Let’s plan your Spain trip
Tell me when you’d like to go, how long you have, and which regions are calling you. I’ll plan the route and book the stays, trains, timed tickets and flights.
The initial 30-minute consultation is complimentary. The professional research fee is $50 per traveller aged 2 or older, paid before research begins.