As autumnal weather brings cooler temperatures to Madrid, November heats up with activity as Spaniards prepare for the coming holiday season. If you’re planning your trip to Madrid this month, you won’t want to miss the harvest markets, Madrid Jazz Festival, or Experimental Cinema Week while you’re out enjoying the pleasant fall weather.

Madrid is the capital of Spain, and its culture reflects the diverse population of the country. Consequently, there’s no shortage of nightly events and festive cultural celebrations throughout the month. However, it’s advisable to plan your trip earlier in November to experience more pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and some of the best annual events the city has to offer.

Madrid Weather in November

By November, Madrid has cooled significantly from its summer highs, averaging a high temperature of 57°F (14°C) for the month. However, the temperatures fall throughout the month, resulting in an average monthly low temperature of 39°F (4°C). Compared to other Spanish cities, like Barcelona, where temperatures hardly drop after nightfall, Madrid is noticeably colder.

The weather remains relatively stable through mid-November, with temperatures in the mid- to low-teens. Late November tends to be similar. If you enjoy temperate weather, you’ll appreciate that the winter chill hasn’t fully taken hold yet. There can be a few cold nights; for example, in 2017, Madrid experienced a significant cold snap with a high of 42°F (5°C).

Moreover, rainfall is expected on around nine days throughout the month, with an average total accumulation of approximately two inches (50 millimeters). However, the downside to this season change is that the city experiences only two to four hours of daylight each day.

What to Pack

For a trip to Madrid in November, it’s best to pack a variety of clothing options to accommodate the changing weather. Consider bringing long-sleeved shirts, sweaters, long pants, and layerable clothing. Depending on your travel dates, you might also want to include a heavy coat, as it does get colder as the month progresses. Given that rain is expected at least one-third of the time, packing a raincoat, waterproof shoes, and an umbrella is advisable to stay dry during those sudden fall storms.

November Events in Madrid

Before the influx of tourists arrives in late November and early December, locals spend much of the month celebrating diverse cultural, religious, and creative events. From the annual pilgrimage home in honor of departed loved ones on Dia de Todos Los Santos to a month-long celebration of European jazz music, there’s certainly something to experience this November in Madrid.

• Dia de Todos Los Santos: This religious holiday on the first of November prompts Spaniards to return home to honor their ancestors by laying flowers and mementos on the graves.
• Madrid Jazz Festival: This annual celebration of jazz generally unfolds throughout November, featuring top European jazz musicians at various venues across the city.
• Fiesta de la Almudena: Taking place on November 9, this religious celebration honors the patron saint of Madrid, Virgen de la Almudena, with floral offerings and an 11 a.m. mass at the Cathedral of Almudena.
• Alcalá de Henares Film Festival (ALCINE): Situated just northeast of Madrid, this festival showcases short and feature-length films from across the country during the second week of November.
• Christmas Lights: The last Friday of the month marks the city’s Christmas light displays, signifying the start of the festive holiday season.

November Travel Tips

• November is considered a shoulder season for tourism in Spain, meaning you can expect fewer crowds, cheaper flights, and more affordable hotel options.
• However, prices do begin to rise once the Christmas lights are turned on and holiday markets open, so it’s wise to plan your trip for earlier in the month.
• Since Spain doesn’t observe Thanksgiving, visitors can find attractive deals on flights and accommodations, even during this busy travel period for Americans.
• Moreover, November is one of the best times to stroll around the city—especially its parks—due to the cool weather and stunning autumn foliage.
• Attending events like the Fiesta de la Almudena (including the 11 a.m. mass) can be rewarding, though it’s essential to remain respectful while participating in these significant cultural demonstrations.