Is Spain Warm in September? Weather, Beaches & Travel Tips

Is Spain warm in September? The short answer is yes, it is very warm in most regions. September in Spain feels like summer’s encore, with long sunny days, warm seas, and a slower pace than the busy months of July and August.

My own first trip to Spain was in September 1989, when my family went to Cala Bona in Mallorca. Even then, my parents and grandparents knew September was the smart choice because it was cheaper than August while still offering the same sunshine. I was too young to remember it myself, but the photos are all filled with blue skies, beaches, and my family enjoying the warmth of late summer. That same appeal still holds true today.

Across the country, daytime highs typically sit between 22°C and 30°C, and in southern Spain, it often feels even hotter. The Mediterranean is at its warmest point of the year, making it one of the best months for swimming and beach holidays. Meanwhile, the evenings are a little cooler, creating the perfect balance for both relaxing by the sea and exploring cities in comfort.

This guide answers the most common questions travellers ask about Spain in September. From temperatures and rainfall to the best regions for beaches, we will cover everything you need to know to plan your trip.

What Is the Weather Like in Spain in September?

Spain in September still feels like summer across much of the country. Average daytime highs range from 22°C to 30°C, with warmer conditions prevailing in the south and on the islands. Early September often mirrors August with long, hot days, while late September brings slightly cooler evenings and more comfortable sightseeing weather.

The Mediterranean Sea is at its warmest point of the year, making this one of the best months for swimming. Coastal regions such as Valencia, Alicante, and the Balearic Islands stay warm and sunny, perfect for beach holidays. Inland cities like Madrid are hot during the day but start to cool down at night, offering pleasant evenings for dining outdoors.

September is also known for its long hours of sunshine. While the chance of rain begins to increase towards the end of the month, it is still mostly dry in central and southern Spain. The overall impression is that September is a reliable, summer-like month for travel, especially for those looking to extend their holidays beyond August or for inspiration on where to go as the season turns, see these best places to visit in Spain in autumn.

Is Southern Spain Hot in September?

Southern Spain is still very hot in September, especially in Andalusia. Cities such as Seville, Córdoba, and Granada often see temperatures between 28°C and 35°C. It feels much like summer, with long, sunny afternoons and warm evenings that are perfect for sitting outside at tapas bars.

Along the coast, places like the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca remain excellent choices for a beach holiday. The sea is warm, the skies are bright, and it is still very much swimming season. September is also more comfortable than July and August, when temperatures can be overwhelming.

When I visited Valencia in September 2022 with my family, it felt nothing like autumn. The heat was strong, we spent a full day at the beach, and yet we paid less because school holidays were over. It was the perfect example of how September keeps the summer atmosphere while offering better value and slightly fewer crowds.

Is Northern Spain Warm in September?

Northern Spain is noticeably milder than the south in September, although it is still very pleasant. In regions such as Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country, daytime temperatures usually sit between 20°C and 25°C. The weather is drier than October, which makes it a good month for hiking, road trips, or exploring the green landscapes without too much rain.

Cities like Bilbao and San Sebastián still enjoy warm afternoons, even if the evenings can feel cooler. September is also the start of wine harvest season in La Rioja, which adds a cultural flavour to travelling in the north at this time of year.

I remember visiting Barcelona in September 2010 with a group of friends. It was still hot enough to feel like midsummer, and we spent our days sightseeing in the sunshine. The difference was that it felt more manageable than August, with slightly fewer tourists and cooler evenings for enjoying tapas outside. Barcelona never really slows down, but September made the city feel less overwhelming.

Are the Spanish Islands Hot in September?

The Spanish islands are some of the best places to visit in September if you are looking for guaranteed warmth. Both the Canary Islands and the Balearic Islands enjoy long days of sunshine, warm seas, and plenty of outdoor life.

Canary Islands

The Canary Islands feel like summer all year round, making them a great year-round destination, and September is no exception. Temperatures often reach between 26°C and 30°C, with very little chance of rain. The beaches are lively, the sea is warm, and the islands are among the most reliable destinations in Europe for late summer holidays.

Balearic Islands

Mallorca, Ibiza, and Menorca also enjoy excellent weather in September. Daytime highs usually sit between 25°C and 28°C, and the Mediterranean Sea is at its warmest point of the year. Beaches are quieter than in August, yet the atmosphere is still lively.

My own very first trip to Spain was to Cala Bona in Mallorca in September 1989. My parents and grandparents chose it because it was cheaper than August but still guaranteed sunshine. Every photo from that holiday shows blue skies and smiles by the pool, proof that the Balearics are a safe bet for September warmth.

Is Spain Good for Beaches in September?

September is one of the best months of the year for beach holidays in Spain. The Mediterranean Sea is at its warmest point, often around 25°C, which makes swimming especially inviting. The weather across the southern coast and islands remains hot, with long sunny days and warm evenings that are perfect for dining by the sea.

The Costa del Sol, Costa Blanca, and the Balearic Islands all offer excellent beach conditions, while the Canary Islands provide the most reliable warmth for anyone looking for summer-like weather. The beaches are noticeably less crowded than in August, making it easier to find space to relax.

When I visited Valencia in September 2022 with my family, it felt like pure summer. We spent a whole day at Malvarrosa Beach, swimming and sunbathing under strong sunshine. The best part was that we had booked outside of the school holidays, which made the trip a lot cheaper while still enjoying peak summer conditions. We spent £330 each for a week for what was essentially a summer holiday.

In northern Spain, Atlantic beaches such as those in Galicia and Asturias are cooler, but they remain popular with surfers thanks to consistent waves.

Does It Rain in Spain in September?

Rain is still relatively uncommon in most parts of Spain in September, although the picture varies depending on the region.

In southern Spain and along much of the Mediterranean coast, September is still a very dry month. Rainfall is minimal, and most days are sunny and warm. The Costa del Sol, Alicante, and Murcia remain excellent choices for those who want sunshine with little chance of disruption.

In the Balearic Islands, the weather is mostly sunny, but short late-summer showers are possible, especially towards the end of the month. These usually clear quickly, leaving bright afternoons.

The Canary Islands are even more reliable, with September being one of their driest and hottest months. It is rare to encounter rain here.

It is in northern Spain where you notice the difference. September does bring showers, particularly in Galicia, Asturias, and the Basque Country. Even in summer, rain is never far away here. When I visited Asturias in June and San Sebastián in July, I experienced rain despite travelling in peak season. Compared to that, September can actually feel quite kind, as it is usually drier than October and the months that follow.

Is September a Good Month to Visit Spain?

September is one of the best months of the year to visit Spain. The weather remains hot and sunny across much of the country, but the atmosphere is calmer than in July or August. School holidays end in early September, which means fewer families travelling and lower prices on flights and accommodation.

For culture lovers, September is a great time to explore Spain’s historic cities without the intensity of midsummer heat. Sightseeing in Madrid, Seville, or Valencia feels easier when you are not battling 40°C afternoons. For beach holidays, the Mediterranean and islands remain perfect, with warm seas and long sunny days.

Festivals also play a role in making September special. La Mercè in Barcelona brings music, fireworks, and parades to the city, while La Rioja’s wine harvest offers a more traditional celebration in the north.

When I visited Barcelona in September 2010 with friends, the city felt alive but not overwhelming. We spent long days exploring and warm evenings outdoors, enjoying a pace that struck the right balance between summer energy and autumn calm.

Final Thoughts: Is Spain Warm In September?

So, is Spain warm in September? The answer is a definite yes. Across most of the country, September still feels like summer, with long sunny days, hot afternoons, and the warmest sea temperatures of the year.

If you are heading south to Andalusia or the Canary Islands, you can expect true summer heat, perfect for beach holidays. The Balearic Islands and Mediterranean coast are also excellent choices, with lively resorts that feel calmer than in August. In the north, the climate is milder but still pleasant, with wine harvest festivals adding a cultural touch to the season.

For me, September has always been a rewarding month to travel in Spain. From my first family holiday in Mallorca in 1989 to more recent trips to Valencia and Barcelona, it has always delivered sunshine, warmth, and a relaxed pace. September offers the perfect balance: the best of summer, without the downsides of peak season.