Question 1

What is the sunniest time of year in Madrid?

Accepted Answer

Madrid enjoys its sunniest weather during July, which recorded 407.3 hours of sunshine in 2024—averaging over 13 hours of daily sun. This makes mid-summer the peak period for those seeking maximum sunshine in the Spanish capital.

The summer months from June through August collectively delivered 1,115.1 hours of sunshine in 2024, representing the most consistently sunny period of the year. August followed closely behind July with 387.0 hours, while May rounded out the top three sunniest months at 340.4 hours. During July, Madrid's average temperature reached 27.2°C (81.0°F), making it both the sunniest and warmest month.

In contrast, January proved to be the least sunny month in Madrid, recording just 135.8 hours of sunshine—roughly one-third of July's total. The winter months of January, February, and December combined for only 515.0 hours, less than half of summer's sunshine total.

Throughout 2024, Madrid accumulated an impressive 3,048.7 hours of sunshine, averaging 254.1 hours per month. This abundant sunshine makes Madrid one of Europe's sunniest capital cities. For visitors planning outdoor activities, sightseeing, or simply enjoying terrace dining, the period from May through September offers the most reliable sunny conditions, with July and August providing the peak sunshine experience.

Question 2

What is the driest month in Madrid?

Accepted Answer

December is typically the driest month in Madrid, with just 0.6 mm (0.02 inches) of precipitation recorded in 2024. This makes it an excellent time to explore the city without worrying about rain interrupting outdoor plans.

The three driest months in Madrid during 2024 were December, November, and September. November received only 1.5 mm of rainfall with mild temperatures of 10.9°C (51.6°F), while September saw just 2.3 mm combined with pleasant warmth at 19.3°C (66.7°F). Together, these three months accounted for only 4.4 mm of precipitation—just 2.6% of Madrid's annual total.

In contrast, August 2024 was the wettest month in Madrid with 50.0 mm of rainfall, demonstrating the significant seasonal variation in the city's precipitation patterns. The average monthly precipitation in Madrid stands at 14.1 mm, with the annual total reaching 169.7 mm (6.68 inches) in 2024.

For visitors planning a trip to Madrid, the dry autumn and winter months offer ideal conditions for sightseeing. December's minimal rainfall combined with temperatures around 6.1°C (43.0°F) creates crisp, clear days perfect for exploring the city's famous plazas, museums, and historic architecture. September offers the best of both worlds—dry conditions with warmer temperatures ideal for outdoor dining and evening strolls through Madrid's vibrant neighborhoods.

Question 3

What are average summer temperatures in Madrid?

Accepted Answer

Madrid experiences hot summer temperatures with an average of 25.4°C (77.6°F) from June through August, making it one of Europe's warmest capital cities during summer.

During summer 2024, daily highs in Madrid averaged 33.3°C (92.0°F), with temperatures peaking above 35°C (95°F) on 41 days across the season. July and August were the hottest months, both averaging around 27°C (81°F), while June was slightly milder at 21.4°C (70.5°F). The hottest day of summer 2024 reached 40.2°C (104.4°F) on July 24.

Nighttime temperatures provide some relief, with summer lows averaging 16.5°C (61.8°F). However, the temperature difference between day and night can be substantial—during summer 2024, Madrid saw temperatures ranging from as low as 9.1°C (48.4°F) in early June to over 40°C in late July, a span of more than 31°C (56°F).

For visitors planning to experience Madrid in summer, early mornings and evenings offer the most comfortable conditions for outdoor activities. The city's numerous parks, terraces, and air-conditioned museums provide welcome respite during the hottest afternoon hours, which typically occur between 2 PM and 6 PM.

Question 4

How much total rainfall does Madrid get per year?

Accepted Answer

Madrid received a total of 169.7mm (6.7 inches) of rainfall during 2024, making it one of the drier capital cities in Europe.

The precipitation in Madrid was unevenly distributed throughout 2024. Surprisingly, summer was the wettest season, with 117.1mm (4.6 inches) falling between June and August. August alone recorded 50.0mm (2.0 inches), making it the wettest month of the year. July followed closely with 34.1mm (1.3 inches), while June saw 33.0mm (1.3 inches).

Spring brought 32.7mm (1.3 inches) of rainfall across March, April, and May, with March being the wettest spring month at 14.3mm. In contrast, autumn was notably dry, accumulating just 11.8mm (0.5 inches) from September through November. Winter proved even drier, with only 8.1mm (0.3 inches) falling across January, February, and December combined.

Madrid's semi-arid climate, influenced by its continental location and 706m elevation on the Spanish plateau, results in relatively low annual precipitation. The monthly average of 14.1mm means visitors should expect mostly dry conditions year-round, though carrying a light rain jacket during summer months is advisable given the occasional afternoon thunderstorms that contributed to 2024's summer rainfall totals.

Question 5

How cold does Madrid get in winter?

Accepted Answer

Madrid experiences mild winters compared to many European capitals, but temperatures can still drop below freezing. In 2024, winter temperatures in Madrid averaged 7.4°C (45.4°F), with the coldest month being December at 6.1°C (43.0°F).

During the winter months of January, February, and December 2024, Madrid recorded minimum temperatures of -3.2°C (26.2°F) in both January and December. These sub-zero conditions typically occur during clear nights when cold air settles over the city's elevated plateau at 706 meters above sea level. However, daytime highs remain relatively mild, averaging 18.4°C (65.1°F) across the winter period.

The temperature variation in Madrid during winter is notable. While mornings can feel biting cold, afternoon sunshine often warms the city considerably. In January 2024, temperatures ranged from a low of -3.2°C (26.2°F) to a high of 18.2°C (64.8°F), demonstrating the significant daily swings common in Madrid's continental climate.

For visitors planning a winter trip to Madrid, packing layers is essential. The city's dry winter climate means cold spells are often accompanied by clear skies and sunshine, making midday exploration comfortable despite the chilly morning starts.

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FAQ

What is the sunniest time of year in Madrid?

What is the driest month in Madrid?

What are average summer temperatures in Madrid?

How much total rainfall does Madrid get per year?

How cold does Madrid get in winter?