The Best Spanish Cities for the Shoulder Season

Planning a trip at the end of the summer? The months following the summer season (the shoulder season) can be one of the best times to visit Spain. Not only is the sun still shining, but the shoulder season tends to come with fewer tourists and better deals. So let's take a look at the best places to visit in Spain during the shoulder seasons. 

There are so many incredible coastal towns and cities in Spain with most pleasant weather during September and October, and luckily Spainholiday.com has ranked them in their latest research. These destinations offer an unforgettable experience without the stress of peak-season tourism. 

Before looking into each destination, let's look at why shoulder season is ideal for visiting Spain. The temperatures range comfortably between 15°C and 26°C. This allows for outdoor adventures without the uncomfortable and high temperatures of summer. You will also find fewer tourists at the major attractions, which means shorter lines at landmarks and usually, you can find better deals on hotels, rental cars and flights. 

So let's take a look at your options for shoulder season in Spain... 

Valencia is always a top destination for the shoulder season. It offers the perfect combination of maximum temperature (averaging between 24–28 °C), moderate UV levels and low humidity discomfort. This means you can still enjoy the warm weather without the discomfort that comes with those high temperatures. 

These comfortable temperatures also make it easier to enjoy the city. Valencia offers so much to see with its mix of historic charm and modern flair. The Old Town offers a mix of Gothic architecture as well as lovely shops and buzzing tapas bars. The City of Arts and Sciences has a number of exciting exhibitions, including an aquarium. 

On top of all the exciting attractions, the coastline of Valencia is home to beautiful, sandy beaches. The sea is still warm if you want to take a dip. During the shoulder season, the Mediterranean is calm, with the beaches a lot less crowded than in July or August. This is perfect if you're looking to relax or even take a stroll along the beach. 

This is a hidden gem along the Mediterranean coastline. The months that follow summer still promise warm weather, averaging 27–28 °C in September and October. UV levels drop to a much safer and comfortable level, along with humidity. 

The city offers a mix of lively culture and beautiful sites. You can explore the sandy beaches, the gothic cathedral in the town centre and even the nearby Desert de les Palms natural park. Visiting in early Autumn means that you can still experience local festivals like the Fira de Sant Pere, getting to experience all the excitement without the crowds of tourists.

Travelling further down the Costa Blanca, Calpe offers an incredible blend of sea and mountains. This makes for some incredible sights and landscapes. With average temperatures in September and October of 23–28 °C and UV ratings of 6 in September and 4 in October. You can enjoy both relaxing beach days and outdoor adventures. 

For the more adventurous seekers, the iconic Peñón de Ifach is an incredible hike that offers stunning views. And after all that hard work, you can enjoy some fresh seafood and local red shrimp. 

Nearby Dénia is the perfect alternative for those looking for something a little quieter. September brings highs of 27°C, dropping down to 23°C by mid-October. The UV index is also similar to Calpe, with ratings of 6 in September and 4 in October. This is a lot less intense than the summer months, but you will still need sunscreen for midday outings.  

Dénia offers a mixture of exciting experiences. This includes morning markets, castle tours, boat trips and relaxed tapas on quiet squares. With lower humidity and fewer tourists, it's the perfect place to relax.

Heading inland, Madrid offers a different kind of late summer delight. During the day, September offers high averages of 27°C, falling to 20°C by October. Whereas humidity levels remain low, this is perfect for exploring the capital. UV levels in Madrid are similar to other destinations, averaging 6 in September and dropping to 4 in October.  

Madrid is a great city escape with parks, plazas and rooftop terraces to explore. During the day, you can enjoy sightseeing, with an exciting and vibrant nightlife to enjoy too. It's also easy to take day trips to other towns like Toledo and Segovia, which offer different cultures and are both also great places to visit during the shoulder season. 

So if you're looking to pack your bags for one last taste of summer this year, then why not try some of these destinations? Each one promises warm, sunny days with UV levels that let you enjoy the outdoors in comfort.