November in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The weather in Spain turns cooler in November, and you won't find a packed event calendar like you would during the summer months. But just because you can't go running with the bulls in Pamplona doesn't mean that November isn't a great time to visit Spain. Spain's larger cities host unique jazz, film, and arts festivals throughout November, while elsewhere you can celebrate everything from orujo, Spain's equivalent to grappa, and the country's newly vintaged wines.

Spain Weather in November

The weather throughout Spain can vary in November, which means there's something to offer for everyone, whether you're interested in warm winter sunshine or bundling up inside of a cozy city cafe. Here are the average temperatures in some of the most popular Spanish cities.

• Barcelona: 62 F / 52 F (17 C / 11 C)
• Girona: 62 F / 42 F (17 C / 6 C)
• Ibiza: 66 F / 53 F (19 C / 11 C)
• Bilbao: 62 F / 46 F (17 C / 8 C)
• Madrid: 59 F / 43 F (13 C / 6 C)
• Córdoba: 66 F / 46 F (19 C / 8 C)

Madrid tends to be quite chilly, so if you're spending time in the capital, pack accordingly. Madrid may be one of the driest cities in Spain, but that doesn't mean you won't get some rain in November.

Meanwhile, November temperatures in Barcelona tend to be cool but not cold. You'll experience a fair number of sunny days, but don't be surprised by some overcast ones, as well. Just don't plan on swimming in the sea or sunbathing on Barcelona's beaches.

If you're seeking winter sunshine, you'll be pleased to know that Andalusia, the southernmost region of Spain, is the one area where it may be possible to sunbathe in November. However, there's no guarantee you'll come away bronzed—the weather in this part of the country varies considerably.

The city of Seville tends to be the hottest city in Andalusia but cools down considerably in November. Rain falls on about seven days during the month, and heavy showers are possible. Malaga is warm and mostly sunny, but November is the city's wettest month, with heavy showers around seven days of the month. Despite the sun, the sea is typically too cold for swimming during this time of the year.

The weather in November in the Basque Country and surrounding regions in the North of Spain can be unpredictable. Rain and cold weather are common, but it's possible to experience some warm and sunny weather on the coast, such as in San Sebastian. 

Galicia, in northwest Spain, is by far the country's wettest region, so you should expect rain here in November. But while it will be wet, it shouldn't be too cold. 

What to Pack

First, comfortable footwear is a must for Spain, regardless of the season. Like most European cities, you'll likely be doing quite a bit of walking. In the late fall, when the weather can be wet or unpredictable, boots are a good choice.

If you're traveling to various climates throughout the country, pack in layers. Plan on bringing cozy items, like flannel shirts, knit sweaters, and sturdy pants, like jeans. Don't forget winter accessories, including a chunky scarf or knit hat. It's unlikely that you'll need a truly heavy winter coat in November in Spain, so instead opt for a lightweight down jacket or a warm vest.

Remember: If you're visiting Galicia, expect rain and pack accordingly! You'll need an umbrella, raincoat, and waterproof shoes for sure.

November Events in Spain

Although you won't find a huge, jam-packed events calendar in November in Spain, there are still plenty of festive events—many celebrating the country's various wines and liquors. Additionally, music and film lovers will relish in November's many festivals.

• All Saints Day: This is a public holiday in Spain, so many shops and services will be closed. Nov. 1
• International Sherry Week: Typically held in early November, this global celebration honors the delightful fortified wine that was invented in Jerez. During this weeklong event, you'll find sherry served in public and private events in tabancos, hotels, bars, restaurants, universities, wine clubs, and bodegas. Nov. 7-13, 2022 
• San Andres Festival: This event in Tenerife is traditionally about tasting the new year's wine, but it's more about making some noise. Partiers drag pots, pans, and noisy metal objects through the town's streets. Make sure to bring earplugs. Nov. 29
• Bilbao International Festival of Documentary and Short Film: This one (Nov. 11–18, 2022) takes place in Bilbao, but it's not your only chance to catch award-winning flicks. Other film festivals worth checking out include the San Sebastián Horror & Fantasy Film Festival (Oct. 28–Nov. 4, 2022) and the Seville Film Festival (Nov. 4–12, 2022).
• Fuerteventura International Kite Festival: This four-day event has taken place on the beach dunes since 1987 and draws visitors from all over the world. More than 150 kites are given to children to fill the skies with colorful kites. Nov. 7–13, 2022

November Travel Tips

• If you still want a beach vacation, Tenerife is an excellent choice. Summer tourists have gone home, but it's still plenty warm.
• Accommodations in November can be much cheaper than other seasons. Trivago found that hotel room rates in Seville, for example, are 23 percent cheaper in November than in October.
• Birdwatchers should flock, pun intended, to southern Spain in November, as millions of birds are migrating south. Doñana National Park and the Strait of Gibraltar are two particularly great areas for bird-watching.
• Roasted chestnuts and foil-wrapped sweet potatoes are two traditional fall foods that you can find on almost every street corner in Barcelona.

Want to learn more about visiting Spain? Find out the best time to visit.