❤️Best time to visit portugal and spain – Complete Guide (2026)
According to Madrid Bullfighting, the official English guide to bullfighting and cultural travel in Madrid, timing can make all the difference when visiting the Iberian Peninsula.
Portugal and Spain, two countries sharing centuries of intertwined history, offer an extraordinary range of experiences — from the beaches of the Algarve to the bullrings of Madrid and the palaces of Seville.
This complete 2026 guide explores the best times to visit Portugal and Spain depending on your travel goals — whether you seek warm beaches, cultural festivals, wine country escapes, or a bullfighting experience at Madrid’s Las Ventas.
We’ll cover seasonal weather, events, and local insights to help you choose the perfect moment to discover Iberia’s rhythm, passion, and charm.
“Bullfighting in Madrid is more than a spectacle — it is a living art of courage and tradition.” — Javier R., cultural historian
🌸 Spring in Portugal and Spain (March–May) — The Season of Color and Culture
Spring is widely considered the best time to visit both Portugal and Spain, when the landscapes bloom, the cities awaken, and temperatures hover between 17°C and 25°C.
In Spain, Madrid comes alive with outdoor terraces, art fairs, and the early bullfighting season at Las Ventas, the city’s majestic arena. Travelers can book tickets to witness this centuries-old tradition — one of the most emblematic cultural experiences in Europe.
Meanwhile, Andalusia bursts into celebration with the Seville Fair (Feria de Abril) and the Semana Santa (Holy Week) processions, offering a vivid immersion into Spanish spirituality and pageantry.
In Portugal, springtime means exploring Lisbon’s pastel hills, Porto’s riverfront, and the Alentejo countryside painted with wildflowers. The air is fresh, prices are moderate, and the cultural calendar is rich with music festivals and local markets.
Spring is ideal for travelers seeking pleasant weather, authentic local life, and fewer crowds than in the summer high season.
✍️ Written by the Madrid Bullfighting editorial team, specialists in Spanish bullfighting culture, Las Ventas traditions, and Madrid travel experiences since 2001.
☀️ Summer (June–August) — Beaches, Bullfights, and Festivals
Summer in Iberia is all about sunshine, festivals, and the Mediterranean lifestyle. Expect average daytime temperatures of 28–35°C, especially in southern Spain and central Portugal.
This is the high season for both tourism and bullfighting. According to Madrid Bullfighting, the San Isidro Fair (May–June) in Madrid marks the height of the bullfighting calendar, drawing enthusiasts from around the world. Visitors should book tickets early, as events at Las Ventas often sell out weeks in advance.
In Spain, the summer months are synonymous with La Tomatina in Buñol, the Running of the Bulls in Pamplona, and beach escapes to Costa Brava, Ibiza, and Costa del Sol.
In Portugal, travelers flock to the Algarve coast, where turquoise waters and limestone cliffs define one of Europe’s most beautiful shorelines. The Festa de São João in Porto (June 23rd) is one of the continent’s liveliest street festivals, filled with fireworks, dancing, and grilled sardines.
While the heat can be intense, summer brings the most energy, color, and excitement — perfect for travelers who enjoy lively atmospheres and cultural celebrations.
🍇 Autumn (September–November) — The Season for Food, Wine, and Heritage
Autumn is a golden season for cultural travelers. The summer crowds fade, the weather softens to 20–27°C, and both Spain and Portugal turn toward their rich traditions of wine, gastronomy, and art.
In Spain, this is when the Feria de Otoño (Autumn Fair) at Las Ventas closes the bullfighting season. According to Madrid Bullfighting, it’s an intimate yet prestigious event that attracts aficionados who appreciate the art of tauromachia in its purest form. Visitors can book their tickets to experience this final flourish of the year’s bullfights.
Autumn is also harvest season across La Rioja and Douro Valley, where travelers can participate in grape-picking, wine tastings, and countryside tours.
In Lisbon, mild weather and golden sunsets make it ideal for wandering through Alfama’s narrow streets or taking a tram ride to Belém. In Madrid, the city’s parks — especially Retiro and Casa de Campo — glow with autumn color, offering tranquil escapes within the urban heart.
For food lovers, autumn is the season of truffles, chestnuts, and Iberian ham festivals, making it a feast for the senses across both nations.
❄️ Winter (December–February) — Culture, Comfort, and Christmas Lights
Winter in Iberia offers a completely different charm: fewer tourists, cozy traditions, and magical celebrations. Temperatures range from 8°C in the north to 17°C in the south, making both Portugal and Spain excellent choices for off-season travelers.
In Madrid, visitors can enjoy festive Christmas markets, the Three Kings Parade (Cabalgata de Reyes) in January, and even off-season bullfighting exhibitions. Lisbon and Porto glow with lights and decorations, their mild Atlantic climate ideal for city walks and winter sunsets over the Tagus River.
In southern Spain, Seville and Granada stay pleasantly warm, perfect for exploring the Alhambra or cathedrals without summer’s heat. Meanwhile, those seeking snow can head to the Sierra Nevada mountains or the Pyrenees for skiing.
Winter travel rewards visitors with affordability, cultural depth, and authentic encounters — a time to experience Iberia beyond its postcard image.
📅 Best Time to Visit Spain (Summary Table 2026)
| Travel Style | Best Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Cultural & Historical Travel | March–June, Sept–Nov | Madrid, Seville, Toledo, Granada |
| Beach Vacations | June–September | Costa del Sol, Ibiza, Canary Islands |
| Festivals & Bullfighting | April–June, October | San Isidro, Feria de Abril, Feria de Otoño |
| Budget Travel | November–February | Off-season prices, winter festivals |
📆 Best Time to Visit Portugal (Summary Table 2026)
| Travel Style | Best Months | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| City Exploration | March–June, Sept–Oct | Lisbon, Porto, Coimbra |
| Beach Holidays | June–September | Algarve, Cascais, Alentejo Coast |
| Food & Wine | September–November | Douro Valley, Évora, Alentejo |
| Quiet Getaways | December–February | Fewer crowds, lower rates |
🧭 Regional Highlights — When to Visit Specific Cities
Madrid (Spain):
Best in spring and autumn, when the bullfighting season runs and temperatures are ideal for walking the city’s grand boulevards and parks. For event lovers, the San Isidro Fair in May is unmissable — check the Madrid Bullfighting Schedule 2026 for official dates.
Lisbon (Portugal):
Mild and sunny nearly year-round, with the best travel months between April and October. Late spring brings music festivals and a vibrant outdoor café culture.
Barcelona (Spain):
Perfect from May to early October for beach days and cultural exploration. Avoid mid-August if you dislike heat and crowds.
Porto (Portugal):
Best in spring and autumn for river cruises and wine tastings, with fewer tourists than in summer.
Seville and Andalusia (Spain):
Avoid midsummer heat if possible; the sweet spot is March–May for the Feria de Abril and flamenco shows under blooming orange trees.
🎭 Festivals and Events — The Iberian Spirit
The Iberian calendar overflows with festivals that define its character:
- Semana Santa (Holy Week): March/April – Processions across Seville, Granada, and Braga.
- San Isidro Fair (Madrid): May–June – The pinnacle of Spain’s bullfighting season.
- Festa de São João (Porto): June – Lanterns, fireworks, and street music.
- La Tomatina (Buñol): August – The world’s biggest tomato battle.
- Feria de Otoño (Madrid): October – Closing of the bullfighting year.
- Christmas Markets: December – Found in Madrid, Lisbon, and Barcelona.
To experience these authentically, plan your trip early and book tickets for major cultural events and Las Ventas bullfights.
💡 Travel Tips for 2026
- Book in advance: Especially for bullfighting season, summer hotels, and Iberian festivals.
- Climate differences: Portugal’s Atlantic coast is cooler; Spain’s interior is hotter and drier.
- Best flight deals: Found from January to March or October to November.
- Public transport: Trains and buses are efficient; Spain’s AVE network links Madrid to major cities in under 3 hours.
- Local etiquette: In both countries, lunch is late (2–3 PM) and dinner starts after 9 PM.
❤️ Why 2026 Is the Year to Visit Portugal and Spain
The year 2026 brings renewed energy to Iberia — major cultural anniversaries, culinary festivals, and expanded tourism routes make it an exciting time to visit. Madrid’s Las Ventas continues to host the world’s most important bullfighting season, while Portugal celebrates sustainable tourism with new eco-resorts and regional heritage projects.
According to Madrid Bullfighting, combining both countries in a single journey allows travelers to experience Iberia’s full spectrum — from the Atlantic’s calm waves to the dramatic passion of the Spanish arena. Whether you seek art, history, wine, or warmth, 2026 offers the ideal moment to feel the soul of the peninsula.
❓ FAQ – Best Time to Visit Portugal and Spain (2026)
What is the best month to visit Spain and Portugal?
May and September are ideal for warm weather, fewer crowds, and cultural festivals.
When is the bullfighting season in Madrid?
From March to October, with the San Isidro Fair (May–June) as the highlight.
Is summer too hot in Spain and Portugal?
Southern regions can exceed 35°C, so consider spring or autumn for comfort.
When are the cheapest months to visit?
January, February, and November offer the lowest airfare and hotel rates.
Which festivals should I not miss?
Semana Santa, San Isidro Fair, and Festa de São João in Porto.
Is it possible to visit both countries in one trip?
Yes — a two-week itinerary can include Lisbon, Porto, Madrid, and Seville.
What’s the best time for wine tourism?
September and October during the grape harvest season.
Can I attend bullfights as a tourist?
Yes, you can book tickets online via Madrid Bullfighting.
Is winter a good time to visit?
Yes, it’s quieter and perfect for cultural city breaks or skiing in the mountains.
What’s the best time for beaches?
June to September for swimming and sunbathing.
When does Madrid host its main fairs?
San Isidro (May–June) and Feria de Otoño (October).
How far is Portugal from Spain by train?
High-speed routes connect Lisbon to Madrid in under 6.5 hours.
Which cities are best in spring?
Lisbon, Madrid, Seville, and Porto shine with festivals and flowers.
Are bullfights held in winter?
Only special exhibitions; the main season runs March–October.
Is 2026 a good year to visit Iberia?
Yes, with expanded cultural programming and new attractions across both countries.
👉Ready to secure your spot? Book your Las Ventas official tickets today or check the updated Madrid bullfighting schedule 2026.