Believe me. You will love the Autumn in Madrid.
Summer crowds and heat have finally left the capital of Spain.
But the days are still long and the weather is pleasant to fully enjoy the most popular open-air activities.
Besides, Madrid´s parks and gardens are especially beautiful and full of colorful trees and flowers.
If you spend this Autumn in Madrid, here’s a guide to the best things to do.
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What Is The Weather Like During Autumn In Madrid?
Autumn in Madrid is milder and sunnier than in most of the European capitals.
The Summer´s scorching temperatures have finally begun to cool down right about end-August. Autumn is one of my favorite seasons to visit Madrid.
As the extreme summer heat has already gone, even September’s warmest days are perfect for outdoor activities and visiting Madrid on foot.
Obviously, temperatures will decrease as we get closer to December, especially when the sun goes down. But as most days are sunny and the humidity is low, the real feel is higher.
Madrid´s weather in September
September is a dry month in the capital of Spain and it rains on average for a total of only three days. The average in Paris and London is 8 days.
You can expect very pleasant temperatures during the day. The average maximum daily temperature in Madrid is roughly 27 degrees Celsius (81 degrees Fahrenheit). On the contrary, Paris is 21 °C (70 °F) and London 20 °C (68 °F).
The average lowest temperature is 15 °C (59 °F) in Madrid, 13 °C (55 °F) in Paris, and 11 °C (53 °F) in London.
With 249 hours of sunshine, September is an excellent time to visit the most popular attractions in Madrid. Look how well Madrid compares to Paris (172 hours) and London (148 hours).
Madrid´s weather in October
In October, Madrid´s accommodation prices will be, overall, more affordable than in the high season, and tourist attractions should be less crowded.
When talking about Autumn in Madrid, October could be considered a wet month as it rains on average 7 days. The average in Paris and London is 10 and 11 days respectively.
You can still expect mild temperatures during the day. The average maximum daily temperature in Madrid lies around 20 degrees Celsius (68 degrees Fahrenheit). On the contrary, Paris is 16 °C (61 °F) and London 15 °C (60 °F).
Nights can be cooler in October in Madrid, but you should be fine with a sweater or a light jacket. The average lowest temperature is 11 °C (52 °F), 10 °C (49 °F) in Paris, and 8 °C (47 °F) in London.
With 204 hours of sunshine, in October you will still have plenty of time for outdoor activities in Madrid. It compares extraordinarily well to Paris (126 hours) and London (111 hours).
Madrid´s weather in November
In November, days are getting shorter, but they are still long enough to take full advantage of a sightseeing session.
Similar to October, there are on average 7 rainy days in November in Madrid, and 10 in Paris and London.
As December approaches, temperatures start to decrease progressively, and the average maximum daily temperature in Madrid will be 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit). It is still cooler in Paris (10 °C | 50 °F) and London (11 °C | 52 °F).
The average lowest temperature in Madrid, Paris, and London is similar in November, around 5-6 °C (41-43 °F).
You will notice a significant decrease in sunshine hours in November. 147 hours in Madrid, which are not that bad considering it is almost Winter. You will not get so much vitamin D in Paris with 75 hours and London with 69 hours.
What To Wear When Visiting Madrid In Fall?
According to the previous section, the temperature averages in Madrid in Fall show significant variations. Your packing list in September should be pretty different from what you’d wear in November.
It also depends on what you are used to. Someone from Northern cities will probably define “cold” very differently than a visitor from a tropical country.
Obviously, comfortable shoes are always a must no matter the season.
What to wear in September?
Visitors traveling to Madrid in September should mostly pack light clothes. Dresses, tops, T-shirts, shorts, and skirts made of cotton or linen.
A light sweater or jacket should be sufficient for a night stroll.
What to wear in October?
Your packing list for October should include fewer shorts and dresses and more jeans, long-sleeve shirts, and sweatshirts.
It is true that the number of rainy days is a little bit higher, so you could include a light rain jacket or a folding umbrella just in case.
Anyway, I always recommend checking the weather forecast the day before departure.
What to wear in November?
November is when Autumn in Madrid starts to fade away and merge into Winter.
It is advisable to bring additional sweaters and a warmer jacket, especially if you are enjoying some outdoor activities or tours at night.
Reasons to visit Madrid in Autumn
Thinking about spending the Autumn in Madrid? These are 5 reasons to help you in your decision:
1. The parks, gardens, and green zones throughout the city are strikingly colored and beautiful.
2. Summer season is over and the typical tourist attractions are not so crowded.
3. Temperature is still warm, with plenty of daylight to enjoy a full sightseeing session.
4. Out of the peak season, you can find cheaper flight and accommodation prices.
5. Hottest days are gone, and it is the perfect time to enjoy some of the most traditional Madrid foods.
What to Do in Autumn in Madrid
No matter the season, the capital of Spain is always an excellent idea. But Fall in Madrid is especially charming.
Summer crowds have already left the city and the colorful parks have turned golden and red. The temperature is still warm enough to fully enjoy outdoor activities.
These are some ideas of things to do in Madrid in Autumn:
Top 10 Things to Do in Autumn in Madrid
1. Enjoy a stroll around the Madrid´s beautiful parks and gardens
Madrid´s parks and gardens provide lots of room and clean air away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
There is a wide offer of green areas throughout the city. My list with the top 10 parks and gardens in Madrid include El Retiro, Campo del Moro, Sabatini Gardens, Madrid Río, Royal Botanical Garden, Casa de Campo, Oeste Park, El Capricho, Quinta de la Fuente del Berro, and Berlin Park.
They are the perfect place for taking a stroll, enjoying a family picnic, walking your dog, and many other outdoor activities.
Some of these places are also important historical sites that will help you to better understand the rich history of Madrid.
The beautiful colors of the trees and flowers, and the crunchy leaves on the paths will make this wonderful experience one of the best things to do in Madrid in Autumn.
2. Discover some stunning views of the city
Many incredible eating and drinking places in Madrid are located in the heights.
This way, the best rooftops of the city will allow you to admire spectacular panoramic views of downtown and stunning Autumn sunsets with a fresh drink in your hand.
Fall is my favorite rooftop bar season to enjoy a cocktail with my friends.
Some of my favorite Instagram spots are Le Tavernier, Bianca Madrid, Dani Brasserie at the top of Four Seasons Hotel, and 360º Sky Bar in RIU Hotel.
3. Visit some of the most renowned museums
Although the weather is usually warm and dry in the Autumn to enjoy outdoor activities in Madrid, there could be some colder or rainy days, mostly closer to December.
And this would be a great opportunity to discover Madrid’s cultural offer. There is something for everyone, no matter what your preferences are.
Madrid is home to 3 of the most fascinating and well-known museums and art galleries in the entire world in less than one mile. It is called the Art Triangle or the Art Walk.
Priceless works of art and paintings can be found in the Prado, Reina Victoria, and Thyssen-Bornemisza museums. Moreover, these three best museums offer free entrance on certain days.
4. Have fun while discovering Madrid with a guided tour
I love guided tours. In my opinion, they are a fun, sustainable, and healthy way to discover the history, culture, and attractions of the places I visit.
You will not have to worry about planning, and you will usually spend 1-3 hours with an expert local guide. It is especially convenient when traveling alone as you will meet other people who probably share your interests.
Madrid´s nice weather in Autumn is very convenient to enjoy this type of outdoor activity. Besides, there is a wide offer: free walking tours, bike tours, and Segway tours.
Choose the one you like and have fun, especially if you are traveling with kids!
5. Catch the best Autumn sunsets in Madrid
There’s something special about the colorful Autumn sunsets in Madrid.
Nothing beats the view of the last sun rays touching upon the breathtaking landscapes of the city.
There are plenty of locations to enjoy some stunning views at dusk.
Apart from the rooftops previously mentioned, the Debod Temple, Las Vistillas Park, and Madrid Río are popular photogenic spots that offer some of the best sunsets in Madrid.
6. Taste the local gastronomy
Autumn is the perfect season to try the best culinary specialties in Madrid.
Due to the high quality and variety of the ingredients used, Spanish cuisine is among the best and healthiest in the world. Over 200 restaurants have been awarded one or more Michelin Stars.
Iberian Ham, Spanish Omelet, and Valencian Paella are just a few of the famous Spanish foods you can try in Madrid.
Also in Autumn, with lower temperatures, you will be probably in the mood for trying some heavier dishes such as the Madrid-style stew and Callos a la Madrileña (Madrid-Style Tripe).
7. See a show at night
Some nights in Autumn can be chilly to go for a walk, especially as Winter gets closer.
Here is a good opportunity to enjoy one of the most popular indoor activities at night in Madrid, see a show.
You will be able to choose among dozens of musicals, flamenco shows, sports games, comedy, and many other options.
The billboard varies depending on the season. But no matter what show you choose, you will enjoy a memorable night out.
8. Go on a day trip
Madrid’s location in the center of Spain allows visitors to easily explore wonderful nearby places on day trips.
The offer is almost unlimited, and most of these locations are especially beautiful in Autumn. Alcalá de Henares, El Escorial, Aranjuez, Segovia, Toledo, and Ávila are some popular day trips from Madrid.
No matter if you are traveling solo or with your family, day trips are one of the best things to do in Madrid in Autumn.
9. Take part in Spain´s National Day
12 October is the most significant national holiday in Spain.
This date commemorates the arrival of Christopher Columbus to the American continent on October 12, 1492.
Its purpose is to remember the different moments of collective history that are part of the Spanish historical, cultural and social heritage.
Madrid hosts the main event of the celebration. Numerous crowds gather at Paseo de la Castellana to see the military parade led by the King and the honoring of the national flag.
10. Go shopping
When I think about the Autumn in Madrid, shopping is one of my favorite activities. Especially when the weather is bad enough for sightseeing.
Madrid is a shopping paradise for most tourists. Generally speaking, prices in Madrid are much more affordable than in other European capitals such as Paris or London.
You will probably have heard about Zara, one of the most famous Spanish fashion brands worldwide. In Plaza de España you will find the Zara flagship store, the largest in the world.
There are several popular shopping areas like the Salamanca neighborhood, Gran Vía, Sol, Fuencarral, and numerous shopping centers.
If you are searching for cheap shopping, you need to know that Las Rozas Village is the best outlet in Madrid.
Quite similar to the outlet malls in the US, it is an open-air space that offers more than 100 boutiques from leading national and international fashion and lifestyle firms with remarkable discounts.
Have you already decided to visit Madrid in Autumn? If you have liked the article, leave your comments below!
