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Exploring the Seasons in Spain

Spain is a country known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant cities, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes. But apart from these attractions, Spain also boasts a diverse climate that brings about four distinct seasons, each with its own charm and character. From the blossoming colors of spring to the sun-kissed days of summer, the golden hues of autumn, and the frosty landscapes of winter, Spain offers a wide array of experiences throughout the year. In this article, we will take a closer look at the four seasons in Spain, highlighting the unique features and activities that make each season special.

The seasons in Spain

Spain experiences four distinct seasons throughout the year, with each season offering its own unique charm. During the winter months of December to February, many regions in Spain, particularly in the northern and central parts, are enveloped in a chilly atmosphere, with snow-capped mountains providing a picturesque backdrop for winter sports enthusiasts.

Spring arrives in March, bringing with it a burst of colorful flowers and mild temperatures, perfect for strolling through the parks and gardens that come to life. Summer spans from June to August, with scorching temperatures and long sunny days that make Spain’s beaches and coastal areas a popular destination for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts.

Finally, autumn arrives in September, painting the landscapes with rich shades of red and orange as the temperatures start to cool down, providing a pleasant transition from the hot summer months to the cooler winter season. Overall, Spain’s seasons offer a diverse and dynamic climate that attracts visitors throughout the year.

Seasons in Spain

Spring in Spain

If you’re looking for a Spain getaway, the spring season is the ideal season to visit. Starting March 20 and ending June 21 (in Central European Time), temperatures in sunny Spain gradually increase as the months go by. In March, average minimum weather can range from 37.4ºF to 60.8ºF, while May tenders between 55.4ºF and 82.4ºF -making it feel like summer. In many inland cities, spring is a great time to visit as temperatures can be slightly cooler than on the coast or in southern Spain. Moreover, expect light rains with humidity present but not too severe that’ll put a damper on your travels; mid-spring is especially inviting at its peak temps, so plan ahead if possible.

As the weather becomes increasingly beautiful, enjoy the sights of full green canyons, and orange blossoms in the Oranges Valley, and visit major cities like Madrid. For entertainment, head to Sevilla for its European Film Festival or to San Sebastian for its annual International Film Festival.

These are some great spots to explore:

  • Madrid
  • Córdoba
  • Valencia
  • Málaga
  • Barcelona

Summer in Spain

The Summer months in Spain are considered the peak season for tourists as temperatures rise. From June 21 – September 23, expect hot days and warm nights with the average temperature at 86°F (30°C). Inland cities such as Madrid can get even hotter due to their proximity to Central Europe’s monsoon winds. Keep this in mind when packing your bags as you may need more breathable, lightweight clothing.

The North Coast enjoys the hot summer making it a top destination for beachgoers. Head to the Costa del Sol for some of the best beaches on offer and enjoy activities like sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, and surfing during this time. The Canary Islands, located off the coast of Africa, is also a great destination to visit year-round- but particularly if you’re looking for warmer weather all year long as they experience average temperatures of 75°F (24°C).

Visiting Spain in the summer season allows you to take full advantage of the pleasant weather, sunny days, and mild waters. Northern Spain is generally more humid, with temperatures rising during the peak season.

If you’re looking for sultry Spanish summers, these are some great spots to explore:

  • Costa Brava
  • Cantabria
  • Asturias
  • Mallorca
  • Cádiz

Autumn in Spain

In Central European Time, the Spanish Fall season begins on September 23 and ends on December 21. As summer fades away and Autumn creeps in with pleasant weather and cooler temperatures, the country becomes an inviting destination. The average temperature is still warm at around 68°F (20°C) and the days are still sunny and bright. Many beaches remain open, however, if you’re looking to stay away from the hustle and bustle of peak season – Autumn may be your ideal choice.

Expect less heat and humidity while still enjoying the blissful sunshine of the country. Spanish resorts thrive during the autumn season due to the mild weather, and many festivals still take place. September’s weather makes it feel like summer has just begun and fewer tourists lead to reduced prices. With temperatures that never exceed 27°C (81°F) and seas warmed up to 22-24 °C (72-75 °F), Autumn is a great time of year for swimming or beach activities, even into November. Check out the Seville European Film Festival, and the San Pedro’s Feast over this time of year. Wine tasting and festivals are also popular activities during the autumn months.

Some great spots to explore in Autumn are:

  • Irati, Navarra
  • Gorafe, Granada
  • La Rioja
  • Zaragoza, Aragón
  • Gijón, Asturias

Winter in Spain

From December 21 to March 20, the winter season officially arrives in Spain. Although it has some of the best climate conditions throughout Europe, temperatures in cold winters can still be nippy, ranging from a low of 32ºF to a high of 60.8ºF. In northern parts and higher altitudes, you may encounter foggy days with rain often occurring between the Atlantic and Galician mountain ranges – yes, there is snow. So make sure you bring appropriate clothing during winter months.

Exploring the sun-soaked during Spain winter can be an unforgettable experience – it’s not as cold here compared to other northern European countries. With less precipitation in regions closer to the Atlantic Ocean, you’ll often find yourself under bright and sunny skies. January is considered the chilliest month, with temperatures ranging from 51.8°F to 55.4°F all around Spain; however, even then, visitors are sure to savor every ray of warmth this beautiful country offers them. Additionally, some of Europe’s best ski resorts are located throughout Spain’s majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains – a perfect winter destination.

If you are looking for a few recommendations on where to spend your winter holidays – some great places include;

  • Granada, Canary Islands
  • Vielha, Catalunya
  • Formigal, Huesca
  • Picos de Europa, Asturias
  • Navacerrada, Madrid

A word from SublimeSpain

Overall, Spain is one of the most sought-after tourist destinations due to its unique blend of climates across the whole country. June to October is the best time to visit Spain; Spain’s beaches and resorts are bustling with vacationers taking advantage of the Mediterranean sun. But that is only part of what this country can offer; all year long, ski slopes are open for those who enjoy winter sports, and a variety of festivals take place in spring and autumn. Whether you’re looking for a beach getaway or an exciting adventure in the mountains, no matter the season, you can be sure that Spain has something to offer everyone. So get planning and enjoy all the best this breathtaking country offers.

Climate in Spain: Types and Locations Discussed

In general, the climate in Spain consists of hot summers and mild winters near the south and center of the country, and warm summers and cold winters near the country’s north. Millions from all over the world go to Spain yearly on holiday; some even stay there to live or retire. The climate in Spain is often defined as perfect by tourists. Those familiar with Spain likely know that, while it’s famous for hot summers, the country experiences diverse weather year-round. In this article, we discuss the climate in Spain and the opportunities those climates offer.

Types of climates in Spain

In Spain, you can find 6 different climates. These are:

  • Hot Summer Mediterranean Climate (South of Spain)
  • Warm Summer Mediterranean Climate (Northwest of Spain)
  • Oceanic climate (North of Spain)
  • Humid subtropical (East of Spain)
  • Cold Semi-arid steppe climate (Elevated areas)
  • Hot Semi-arid
  • Subarctic (mountain areas)

Some of these climates can be found very close to each other. Such as in Barcelona where you can find Hot Summer Mediterranean Climate, Oceanic Climate, and Humid Subtropical Climate.

 

Hot Summer Mediterranean Climate in Spain

The Hot Summer Mediterranean Climate is a hot, dry summer climate. The average temperature in the coldest month is above 0 °C (32 °F), at least one month’s average temperature is above 22 °C (71.6 °F), and at least four months have an average temperature of 10 °C (50 °F) or more.

The temperature is perfect for people that love the summer and don’t mind high temperature or high humidity. If you can hang out at the beach, pool or on a boat all day you will love it. Sunshine in this climate is almost all year round.

This climate in Spain can be found in large parts of Andalucia, Extremadura, Canary islands, and the Balearic Islands. Next to this parts of the autonomous regions Catalonia, valencia and Murcia also have this climate. Cities that have this weather in Spain are Barcelona, Tarragona, Girona, Malaga, Marbella, Cadiz, Malaga, Valencia, Seville, Ibiza, Valencia.

Warm Summer Mediterranean Climate

This means that the temperatures are not too hot or too cold. The summers are warm and dry, and the coldest month is still above freezing. All months have average temperatures below 22 °C (71 degrees Fahrenheit), and four months average above 10 °C (50 degrees Fahrenheit).

This temperature is perfect for people that like the weather to be warm but not too hot. The winter is pretty short and has mild temperatures, perfect for people that don’t like long cold winters.

This climate in Spain can be found throughout Galicia, Castile, and Leon. Parts of Madrid and Asturias’ autonomous regions are included as well. Salamanca, Segovia, Ourense, Pontevedra, and Aveiro are some examples of cities in this area.

Learn more about climate in Spain

Oceanic climate

The oceanic climate doesn’t have a dry season. It’s warm in the summer and the coldest month averages above 0 °C (32 °F). All months have temperatures below 22 °C (71.6 °F) and there are at least four months when the temperature averages above 10 °C (50 °F).

This climate is great for people that enjoy cool summers and a mild winter. The summer is not so hot and perfect for going out during the day, but sometimes it will be too cold to wear a shirt outside in the evening.

Parts of Aragon, North parts of Castile and Leon, Valencia and Catalonia have this climate. It can be found in cities like Santandar, Burgosa, Soria, Teruel, Bilbao, Pamplona, San Sebastian, Huesca, Figurues.

Humid subtropical

The coldest month averages more than 0 degrees Celsius. The average temperature is above 22 degrees Celsius in at least one month, and above 10 degrees Celsius (50 °F) in at least four months.

This climate is perfect for people that like warm and humid weather. This climate has a lot of hot and humid days and only a few cold days in the winter. You will love it if you can stand high humidity and sunshine. Next to this, it creates a perfect environment for plants to flourish, so if you enjoy nature this climate is perfect for you.

Small parts of Catalonia have this climate. The climate can be found near the cities Barcelona, Lleida, and Navarra

Cold Semi-arid steppe climate

The steppe is a middle point between desert and humid climates in terms of ecological features and agricultural potential. In cold semi-arid climates, the average annual temperature is below 18°C. The temperature in the coldest month will not be above 0°C.

This climate can be found in elevated areas. You can enjoy this climate if you like sunny weather and colder temperature. You can still go out and about, but you will need to wear warmer clothes.

Parts of Andalucia, Murcia, Valencian Community, Aragon, Castile and Leon have this climate. Cities like Murcia, Zaragoza and Zamora have this climate.

Hot Semi-arid Climate

In hot semi-arid climates, the average annual temperature is at least 18°C or greater than 0°C in the coldest month. The summers can be extremely hot, and the winters can be cool with some precipitation. They are most commonly found near the edges of subtropical deserts.

In this climate, you can enjoy a nice warm day in winter, but it will be extremely hot during the summer. There is not much vegetation apart from cactuses and other types of desert plants.

A very small part of Spain has this climate, and it is located in Murcia near the city of Murcia.

Subarctic Climate

The subarctic climate (also called subpolar climate, or boreal climate) is a climate characterised by long, usually very cold winters, and short, cool summers. Mean temperatures in summer only rarely exceed 16 °C (61 °F).

This climate can create perfect conditions for skiing in Spain. The summers are short and the winters long and cold. You can go out in winter if you wear enough clothes, but it will be too cold to enjoy the sun for a longer period of time.

A very small part of the mountain area in the Pyrenees in Spain has a climate that is this good.

Explore the Spanish Climate

Spain has one of the most diverse climates in the world with over 7 types. From the Mediterranean coast and its warm and sunny weather to the cold and Siberian style snowy mountains of the Pyrenees to the cloudy Atlantic coast in Gijon.

The climatic variability has given Spain the perfect conditions for exploratory adventures in nature. Each climate brings its own benefits, from the great beaches of Valencia to the Ski resorts in Asturias. Moreover, you can explore places with frequent rainfall, cooler easterly wind, and wet winters. But also north Africa style desert climate with extremely sunny summers and scarce rainfall.

So the next time you are in Spain, not only go to the summer sides but also explore the other climates. It will for sure be an unforgettable experience.

15 Most Famous Malls in Spain

Have you ever fantasized about exploring Europe’s greatest malls in Spain? Whether to take in history, sample local delicacies at one of their many shops and restaurants, or do some retail therapy, visiting a mall can provide fun and exciting experiences. Spain Malls are a great place for all kinds of shopping needs and are amongst the best in Europe. For those craving some international flair in their shopping excursions, Spain is home to numerous remarkable malls for the grandeur of their architecture and the variety of attractions they have to offer.

With huge shopping centers full of stores, restaurants, and entertainment venues, it’s easy to find exactly what you’re looking for. From luxurious boutiques offering designer labels to eclectic eateries serving up delicious regional cuisine, these impressive Spanish malls will take your shopping experience up a notch. Let’s explore some of the most famous malls in Spain below.

How many malls are in Spain?

With over 500 shopping centers all over the country, Spain is one of the leading shopping destinations in Europe. These include flagship stores, department stores, clothing stores, and luxury brands, as well as the most famous markets such as Mercado San Miguel in Madrid and La Latina district in Barcelona. Spain is an ideal destination for retail therapy and tax-free shopping all year round.

Malls in Spain

What is the biggest shopping mall in Spain?

If you are looking for a great place for leisure, the Oasiz shopping center in Torrejón de Ardoz is available for your delight. This space offers a large selection of stores, restaurants and leisure services.

It is the largest shopping center in the region, with a total area of more than 100,000 square meters. Inside this shopping center there is an artificial forest, a unique and incredible space with more than 200 trees that look like real trees. This forest has been recreated by the architects using sustainable techniques and materials, developed with the aim of reducing waste. In addition to this measure, it was also designed to create a pleasant environment for visitors to enjoy while shopping or having lunch at one of the many restaurants located on the premises.

Which is the most famous store in Spain?

The flagship store in Spain is El Corte Inglés, with 74 Department Stores where you can purchase literally anything from everyday essentials to high-end products and luxury brands. Headquartered in Madrid, El Corte Inglés is the biggest department store group in Europe.

15 Famous Malls in Spain

Whether you are looking for the latest fashion trends, electronics, or just a place to unwind and grab a bite to eat, these malls are sure to satisfy your shopping cravings.

1. Diagonal Mar, Barcelona

This shopping center is located in one of the most important avenues of Barcelona, the Diagonal Avenue, which gives its name to the center. It is your go-to destination for the best in fashion and sports, homeware, health, and beauty items. Among the stores you can visit in this shopping mall are the jewelry store Tous, Lacoste, Benetton, the Catalan brand Macson, the shoe store Pikolinos as well as Zara and the sports store Fútbol Emotion, among many others. On the other hand, there is a wide variety of dining options such as Kurz & Gut and La Tagliatella, as well as the Alcampo supermarket and Cinesa movie theaters.

2. La Gavia, Madrid

La Gavia, a shopping center located in the Vallecas area, is one of the largest shopping centers in Madrid. You can easily get there by subway. Its commercial offer is headed by the Swedish furniture and decoration store IKEA in addition to the hypermarket Carrefour.

Among its stores, you will find options such as the electronics, culture and leisure store FNAC, the gift store Miniso as well as many fashion brands including Primark, Mango, GAP, Dockers and Bershka. There are many leisure and dining options for the whole family in this shopping center including the American food restaurant TGI Fridays or Ginos, as well as the Golden Park casino. To make your experience even better, try visiting La Gavia during weekdays when it tends to be less crowded.

3. Nueva Condomina Shopping Center, Murcia

The Nueva Condomina shopping center was inaugurated in 2006. Since then it has become the favorite shopping center of the inhabitants of Murcia. There are multiple fashion brands in this large center such as Cortefiel, Desigual, the European fast fashion brands Primark and H&M as well as Mango, Levi’s and Zara.

But that’s not all as there are also stores of all kinds of Apple products, FNAC and toy stores like Toys R Us and Poly Juguetes. There are also many national chain restaurants such as the Italian Ginos, the American food restaurant Tommy Mel’s and Udon, as well as movie theaters and the DIY store Leroy Merlin.

4. Principado Park, Lugones – Oviedo

Parque Principado is one of the best places for shopping in Asturias. There are more than 70 stores, plus the Eroski hypermarket, the IKEA store, famous restaurants and movie theaters. Although it has changed owners several times, and also its name, Parque Principado is still at the forefront. It also organizes activities continuously inside the center. Some of the stores you can go shopping in this mall are Bimba y Lola, Mango, Cortefiel, Tommy Hilfiger as well as the jewelry store Aristocrazy, and the fast fashion stores Primark and Zara.

5. Westfield La Maquinista, Barcelona

Westfield La Maquinista is the largest shopping center in Catalonia and one of the most beautiful and complete in Barcelona. It was inaugurated in 2000 and has more than 150 stores of national and international brands. It is worth visiting this mall just for its spectacular design, which added to its excellent range of stores make it a must in Barcelona. Some of these are Uniqlo, Lacoste, Hilfiger Denim, Abercrombie & Fitch and Nike, as well as the MediaMarkt electronics store, the official Lego store and Sephora.

There is much more to do (besides the fact that there are always novelties) as in total there are more than 150 stores in La Maquinista. It was acquired by the famous international shopping center group Westfield, owner of several of the largest centers in Europe and the United States. There are also movie theaters, several restaurants and the Carrefour supermarket in this large 3-story shopping center.

6. Lagoh, Seville

Being one of Seville’s favorite places for shopping, Lagoh is also part of our ranking of the largest shopping centers in Spain. Since its opening in 2019, It has quickly become one of the favorites of both locals and tourists for its wide range of stores. One of the best things about this large shopping center is its incredible views of the bodies of water that surround the center.

There is a wide variety of stores for all styles and needs ranging from baby and children’s clothing stores Mayoral and Prenatal, fast fashion brands like Springfield or Bershka, and women’s clothing at Bimba y Lola or Punt Roma, among many others. The mall also has movie theaters, a wind tunnel, a zip line and even a wave pool, guaranteeing a full day of shopping and fun in Seville.

7. La Cañada, Marbella

It is located in one of the most luxurious shopping cities in Spain. La Cañada Shopping Mall in the city of Marbella has an extraordinary selection of stores. It is the largest shopping center in the area, ranking ninth in Spain. If you do not want to go to the luxury stores in Puerto Banus, it is a very good alternative as there are very good quality brands.

Its offer includes the British department store Marks & Spencer as one of its main stores. But there are also several renowned brands such as Polo Ralph Lauren, the French firms Sandro and Maje, the premium brand of H&M: COS, Purificación García and Calvin Klein among several other clothing and accessories stores. It also has several restaurants and movie theaters.

Malls in Spain

8. Nuevo Centro, Valencia

Located next to the bus station, Nuevo Centro is one of the most traditional shopping centers in Valencia, open since 1982. It may not be the most modern, but this large shopping center never goes out of fashion and today it is still one of the most visited in the Valencian Community. This is due to its good commercial offer that combines options such as Mango, Cortefiel, United Colors of Benetton, Massimo Dutti, Zara and the department stores of El Corte Inglés. In this center, you will also find the Mercadona supermarket and national chain restaurants such as The Good Burger and Foster’s Hollywood.

9. Nevada Shopping, Armilla – Granada

It was inaugurated In 2016. The Nevada Shopping is a modern shopping center with more than 100 brands and that has become the most visited in Granada and its surroundings, in addition to being the seventh largest shopping center in Spain. Brands such as El Ganso, Weekend MaxMara, Scalpers, the famous sports brand Adidas, as well as Purificación García, the jewelry store Tous and the English menswear firm Hackett, make this a shopping paradise as there is something for everyone. There are also more than 30 dining options (such as Five Guys, Casa Carmen, Ribs and Amorino ice cream) during your shopping day, as well as Kinepolis movie theaters and a branch of the IKEA furniture store.

10. Rio Shopping, Valladolid

Located in the city of Valladolid the Rio Shopping Mall, is a great destination for shopping lovers and one of the largest malls in Spain. Desigual, FNAC, MediaMarkt, IKEA furniture store, Massimo Dutti and Apple Store are some of its most outstanding stores. Also, there are options to buy cheap clothes including Nike Factory Store (the outlet store of the renowned American sports brand) and the fast fashion brand Primark. But there is much more to discover as these are just some of the brands you can find at Rio Shopping, which is also the largest shopping center in Castilla y León. If you get hungry there are several restaurants in this center such as Foster’s Hollywood and La Nicoletta.

11. Bonaire, Valencia

Bonaire is a spectacularly designed shopping mall that offers its visitors many things to do. It opened in 2000 and throughout its history has been renovated and expanded to be considered the largest and one of the best options for shopping in Valencia. It has more than 100 stores including Pepe Jeans, Tous, Hawkers, Zara, Decathlon and the famous American fashion brands Tommy Hilfiger and Hawkers.

You will also find two hotels on the premises and even an outlet area. This is known as Factory Bonaire which is a great option to buy clothes at the best price. In 2016 it opened its leisure and restaurant area known as Las Terrazas which houses several restaurants in an outdoor area where various events are organized throughout the year. As for entertainment, we recommend you go bowling at Big Fun or go to Dock 39 which offers multiple activities to its visitors.

12. Intu Xanadu, Arroyomolinos – Madrid

Intu Xanadu, in Arroyomolinos, is one of the best options for shopping centers near Madrid because it has options for the whole family to have fun. Among the largest shopping centers in Spain listed in this article, this one has more entertainment venues. There are many places like an amazing indoor snow slope, an aquarium, a bowling alley and movie theaters, as well as an entertainment center for children.

If you go shopping there are also plenty of stores like Guess, Massimo Dutti, Jack & Jones, H&M, the Apple Store and El Corte Ingles. There are also bookstores, mattresses, makeup, video games, jewelry, shoes, a hypermarket and much more. As if that were not enough, there are more than 20 restaurants of all kinds of food.

13. Westfield Parquesur, Leganés – Madrid

This gigantic shopping center is located in Leganés and you can get here from Madrid easily either by car or public transport. Westfield Parquesur is also the largest shopping center in the Community of Madrid. You will spend hours touring the third largest shopping center in Spain as it has more than 100 stores such as Nike, FNAC, Mango, Primark, the makeup store Sephora, and the Apple Store.

There is also the MediaMark electronics store, the official Lego store and the Alcampo hypermarket so you can do a little bit of everything. One of its biggest attractions is its cybernetic fountains that create a show of light and color every night, and that you can better appreciate in the restaurant area that surrounds them. Speaking of which, there are more than 50 gastronomic options, between fast food or snack places and large restaurants. You can also relax and have a drink in its chill-out area, where on weekends there is a DJ.

14. Marineda City, A Coruña

Receiving more than 17 million visitors a year, Marineda City is a must-visit if you are in A Coruña. H&M, Primark, Zara, Mango, Springfield and Guess are some of the fashion brands present in Marineda City.

Also in this center, there are several large stores such as Leroy Merlin, Conforama, the sports store Decathlon and IKEA. There are also plenty of places to have fun including a bowling alley, go-kart track and movie theaters as well as several restaurants (including the hamburger restaurant Goiko Grill, Che!, Vips and several others).

15. Puerto Venecia, Zaragoza

The largest shopping center in Spain is Puerto Venecia located in Zaragoza. Although there are some new centers such as Oasiz Madrid that are larger in size, this is still the one with the largest leasable commercial space in the whole country. But in addition to this, it is one of the most beautiful malls as it has truly spectacular views. In its more than 200,000 square meters of construction, it houses numerous stores, restaurants and entertainment venues. Among its stores, there are options for all tastes ranging from IKEA furniture stores to El Corte Ingles.

There are also clothing stores such as Brownie, Scalpers, Mango, Zara, Kiabi Nike or Aristocrazy jewelry and even Toys R Us. In addition, there are many entertainment venues for children and adults in this large shopping center. There are places like the Extreme trampoline park or 7 Fun with attractions for the whole family. We recommend that you take a walk around the beautiful lake outside the center, ideal for a special afternoon with your partner or friends.

A word from SublimeSpain

Visiting malls in Spain is always a memorable experience that can’t be replaced anywhere. From luxurious options to local gems, there’s something for everyone no matter what type of traveler you are. Popularity and consumer trends shift quickly, but the highly favored spots remain. The best of them all have perfected their offerings to provide visitors with a shopping and entertainment experience they won’t soon forget. Whether you’re browsing luxury fashion stores or looking for bargain deals in traditional Spanish markets, the plethora of choices offered by these famous malls in Spain ensures you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for. Discovering the best of Spain by shopping at its iconic malls will leave anyone with an appreciation for quality, culture, and tradition.

10 Of The Best Airports in Spain

If you’re planning a trip to Spain, one of the first things you’ll need to consider is how to get there. Spain is a popular tourist destination, and as such, has several airports located throughout the country. In this article, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive guide to the main airports in Spain.

Which are the main airports in Spain?

The best airports in Spain make it easy for travelers to explore the country’s many attractions. From Barcelona El Prat Airport to Madrid Barajas Airport, Spain has some of the busiest airports in Europe. While Barcelona International Airport (BCN) is the busiest airport in the country, other popular Spanish airports include Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI), Malaga Airport (AGP), Gran Canaria Airport (LPA), Lanzarote Airport and Alicante-Elche Airport (ALC).

All of these airports offer flights to major cities within Spain as well as to destinations in other countries throughout Europe. Let’s take a look at the top ten airports in Spain and discover all the information you need to determine which one is right for your next trip.

1. Madrid Barajas Airport (MAD)

Barajas International Airport is one of Europe’s most impressive airports. Located conveniently near Madrid’s city center, it welcomes over 50 million travelers each year. Tourists choose Madrid to explore its various attractions. From the stunning architecture and shopping on Gran Via to iconic landmarks such as Plaza Mayor and Royal Palace, this vibrant metropolis has a lot to offer.

2. Barcelona International Airport (BCN)

Located just a short bus ride from Barcelona’s bustling downtown, Barcelona International Airport is the second busiest airport in Spain. There are several popular destinations from this hub, including Gran Canaria, Palma de Mallorca, and Malaga—all of which have their own airports. You can explore the city’s vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, and gastronomy from here. From exploring its illustrious capital city teeming with history and architecture, such as the Sagrada Familia or Gaudi’s masterpieces, to sun-soaked beaches, Barcelona is a must-visit for any vacationer.

3. Palma de Mallorca Airport (PMI)

Despite being a small island, the Palma de Mallorca airport welcomes millions of holidaymakers each summer. Majestic Majorca is renowned for its sunny beaches and rich heritage; tourists can explore the bustling city of Palma or venture farther to uncover secret viewing spots around this Mediterranean paradise! With so much history to discover in Santa Maria Cathedral and hidden places off the beaten track, now’s your chance to experience true Spanish culture at its best.

4. Malaga Airport (AGP)

Malaga Airport, the epicenter of entry to Costa del Sol in southern Spain, is conveniently located near bustling city centers as well as popular tourist destinations like Torremolinos. In peak summer months, it hosts approximately 20 million travelers! Aside from its renowned beach parties and tranquil resorts with golf courses, Malaga offers so much more: a reminder of Islamic culture past through La Alcazaba fortress and the birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and tantalizing flavors of Andalusia during Malaga’s festivals, where you can savor flamenco performances, sherry wines, and fresh-grilled sardines.

5. Alicante International Airport (ALC)

Alicante Airport, located on the Costa Blanca in Spain, is another top destination for travelers. Popular tourist resorts such as Benidorm and Altea are just a stone’s throw away from Alicante International Airport. Alicante, the province’s capital, and a breathtaking seaport attracts 20 million visitors annually. Located on Spain’s Costa Blanca coast along the Mediterranean Sea, this destination is home to many European retirees seeking sunny leisure. Alicante offers something for everyone from its white-sand beaches and vibrant nightlife to its Casco Antiguo castle and marble promenade lined with museums. Come indulge in all this beautiful locale has to offer; you’ll be sure not to regret it.

Airports in Spain

6. Gran Canaria Airport (LPA)

Gran Canaria airport is the busiest in the Canary Islands, with July and August being peak tourist season. It’s located close to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the capital of this incredible island. There are plenty of things for visitors to enjoy here: Playa de Las Canteras boasts excellent swimming conditions; a lively carnival celebration annually; shopping opportunities abound; cruise ships dock in its port regularly; and colorful neighborhoods rest atop its hills. Furthermore, adventurers will love beginning their journey at La Palmas to experience the majestic volcanic crater Cauldron of Bandama.

7. Tenerife Sur (TFS)

The island of Tenerife is the largest in Spain’s Canary Islands and has two airports, the smaller Tenerife North (TFN) and the bigger Tenerife South (TFS). International connections arrive at TFS airport, while a direct bus service connects both airports. Vacationers come all year round to enjoy resorts like Los Cristianos, Playa de las Américas, or Costa Adeje near TFN. Pico del Teide will take your breath away. At 3715 meters, this vulcano reigns as Spain’s highest elevation point. For those seeking some adventure, a paragliding session will have you soaring above the clouds of this beautiful island.

8. Ibiza Airport (IBZ)

Ibiza’s airport, though modest in size, welcomes more than five million tourists every year. Located near the island itself, this is your gateway to discovering both Ibiza and Formentera at their best; from May onwards until October, people arrive for a memorable summer of partying with immersive techno music across many beach clubs. Nonetheless, if you prefer something quieter, there are plenty of world heritage sites that you can explore either by yourself or take part on an organized tour – not to mention secluded beaches and small villages perfect for relaxation while shopping opportunities also abound. Whether you’re searching for wild nightlife, a relaxed get-away, or adventure and sports activities, this is the place to be.

9. Valencia Airport (VLC)

Although Valencia Airport is much smaller than other airports, it still serves an impressive six million passengers annually. With flights available from Madrid to the likes of London, Rome, Paris, and Amsterdam among others; this Mediterranean hub always welcomes travelers with open arms! And don’t forget all the incredible attractions for visitors – La Ciudad de las Artes y de las Ciencias showcases modern structures such as a planetarium or cultural venues like botanical collections. You can also explore Valencian Gothic architecture at La Lonja de la Seda, declared a world heritage site. In addition to the astounding cathedral, the historic Casco district, and El Carmen’s charismatic bohemian flair, Jardín del Turia offers visitors an opportunity for tranquility with its riverbed park.

10. San Pablo Airport Seville (SVQ)

Every year, over five million travelers make their way to Seville by flying into San Pablo Airport. The months between May and August are the most crowded with tourists looking for a gateway to Andalusia’s renowned beaches of Costa del Sol and its capital – Seville. Steeped in history and architecture, this city is home to UNESCO World Heritage Site Cathedral de Sevilla alongside other remarkable landmarks such as Real Alcázar, Parque de María Luisa, Plaza de España, etc. Additionally, visitors flock to the Santa Cruz neighborhood brimming with charm or indulge in art at one of the many museums featuring fine artwork. Day trips to Cordoba or Granada are also popular if you’re looking to explore more of Andalusia.

Which is the nicest airport in Spain?

Adolfo Suárez-Barajas airport in Madrid has been named the top airport in Europe for services, efficiency, complaints handling, and quality of its stores & restaurants. Not far behind is Bilbao Airport, which came second.

Which airline travels to Spain?

Spain is a coveted destination for many, attracting various airlines that operate direct flights to different Spanish cities. In particular, notable carriers that facilitate direct travel to Spain are Air Europa, Air France, Alitalia, British Airways, EasyJet, Iberia, Lufthansa, Ryanair, Vueling, and Wizz Air.

These airlines typically operate from various international aviation hubs and maintain multiple air links to diverse Spanish cities. Thus, prospective travelers can opt for the most suitable carrier that aligns with their itinerary and budget. It is noteworthy that some of these airlines also extend budget-friendly travel options, and it’s advisable to keep an eye out for exclusive deals and promotions.

A word from SublimeSpain

Spain is a great holiday destination, and with its stunning array of the best airports located all over the country, it is easy to see why so many people travel there. From Barcelona El Prat to Gran Canaria Airport and Son Sant Joan, the country offers a variety of international airports for visitors to choose from. From daily domestic services between major cities to regular connections worldwide, these airports make it easy to soar over Spain and explore the popular tourist resorts or vibrant cities. Whatever your destination of choice is, there’s sure to be an airport in Spain that will provide you with all the information, flights, and flight tickets you need.

Living In The Canary Islands: A Quick Guide For Expats

Living in the Canary Islands is a dream come true for many. With year-round sunshine, warm temperatures, and stunning beaches, what’s not to love? Located in the sunny Atlantic Ocean, just off Africa’s west coast, this magical Spanish archipelago has everything. Its stunning beaches and awe-inspiring volcanic landscapes will take your breath away. But before you pack your bags, you must ensure you have all your paperwork sorted out. In this quick guide, you’ll learn about the main requirements for applying for residency in the Canary Islands. Looking beyond the typical tourist attractions, this guide dives deeper into what Las Islas Canarias has to offer those interested in relocating.

Living in the Canary Islands: What is it like?

The Spanish archipelago located off the northwest African coast has breathtaking Islands that are an ideal location for living and the perfect place to call home. Life on the islands is relaxed and easy-going and the living costs are much lower than in most other European countries.

There is a fantastic choice of European and local cuisine, plus a wide range of cultural activities. Shopping here can be varied and convenient too. There are bright bazaars close to popular tourist areas and plenty of supermarkets to stock up on essentials without venturing too far. The larger islands like Gran Canaria and Tenerife also have shopping malls for larger shopping trips.

Which Canary Island is the best to live in?

The best Canary Island to live in largely depends on personal preferences. Each of the main eight islands has something unique to offer: beautiful beaches, mountainous landscapes, vibrant cities, and remote villages.

Of the eight main islands, Tenerife and Gran Canaria are the two most popular ones. Gran Canaria is the third largest island in Spain. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are both famous for their year-round sunshine and lively culture. Meanwhile, La Palmas is also a great destination as it offers both city living and resort towns. It is the most metropolitan island with plenty of shopping opportunities. Fuerteventura offers a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere with its secluded beaches and lush forests.

Living in the Canary Islands

Applying for residency in the Canary Islands

You must obtain a residency permit if you are looking for a long-term stay or remote work opportunity in the Canary Islands. You must apply if you are living or working there for more than 90 days. This guide will provide some insight into achieving legal residence status; however, it’s always best to get information from reliable and official sources for double assurance.

Obtain a Foreigner Identification Number

The NIE (Foreigner Identification Number) is an individual code the Spanish tax agency assigns to foreigners. This personal number appears on all issued and processed documents except for visas, including passports and identity cards. It serves as a form of identification for individuals when dealing with governmental institutions in Spain.

If you want your NIE, providing evidence of where you live such as a rental agreement or hotel/hostel booking receipt, is essential. This number is needed for many tasks like paying taxes and fees, owning property, acquiring a driving license, or starting a company – all activities that require finance transactions.

Work for a local/national company

European citizens with a legitimate job contract from a regional/countrywide organization do not need to meet other stipulations. The agreement must be formalized, and include at least 20 hours of labor per week. However, it does not necessarily need to encompass full-time employment. The European Union has a number of regulations and directives that regulate working conditions; your employer must adhere to current legislation and register the job contract with social security services.

Have private health insurance

Private medical cover is a requirement for those living in the Canary Islands for more than 90 days. Obtaining comprehensive health coverage ensures access to high-quality healthcare services, both public and private, throughout the region. In most cases, your employer will likely cover this cost; however, if you are a self-employed worker or freelancer living in Spain, it is essential to obtain your own policy.

Apply for a student visa

If you are planning on studying in the Canary Islands, then, of course, you will need a student visa. To apply, you must submit proof of enrollment at the respective educational institution and all documentation proving financial stability and health insurance.

What happens if you work for a non-local/national company?

If you’re an EU, EEA, or Swiss national who a local or national company doesn’t employ, has no work contract with one, and works for a foreign business instead – it is essential to demonstrate that you have enough income to sustain living on the islands. Moreover, private health insurance is also required in such cases.

What happens if you are a non-EU citizen?

Non-EU/EEA and Swiss citizens must visit the Oficina de Extranjería (Immigration Office) to fill out an application for a residency permit. Additionally, they should demonstrate that their stay on the Islands is financially viable by providing evidence of sufficient financial resources.

A word from SublimeSpain

The Canary Islands are the perfect destination for career switchers pursuing a more relaxed, beach-centric lifestyle. Applying for residency in the Canaries is easy, with many options available. To gain full access to all the benefits of living in the Canaries, you will need to apply for a resident permit for at least six months before moving there. Some key application requirements include a valid passport or ID card, proof of address, health insurance, and documents that reflect your income sources. Once approved, you can stay in the islands indefinitely, provided that you meet all of the legal requirements associated with your resident permits, such as residence taxes and mandatory medical exams. Keeping in mind these steps, you’ll be ready to enjoy life in this beautiful part of the world!

Disclaimer: Information on this page may be incomplete or outdated. Under no circumstances should the information listed be considered professional legal or financial advice. We highly recommend seeking guidance from a legal or financial expert if you lack extensive knowledge or experience dealing with any of the procedures outlined in these articles.