Spain, a diverse country in southwestern Europe, is known for its sunny coastlines, rugged mountains, and rich cultural history. Its varied landscapes support a wide range of wildlife, from the iconic Iberian lynx—one of the world’s rarest wild cats—to wild boar, red deer, and brown bears in the northern forests. Spain’s wetlands, such as Doñana National Park, are vital habitats for flamingos, herons, and many migratory birds that travel between Europe and Africa. In the mountains, golden eagles and griffon vultures soar above rocky cliffs, while the surrounding seas are home to dolphins, whales, and sea turtles. With extensive protected areas and unique species found nowhere else, Spain is one of Europe’s most important countries for biodiversity
Visa
You can travel without a visa to the Schengen area, which includes Spain, for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. This applies if you travel:
as a tourist
to visit family or friends
to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events
for short-term studies or training
vaccinations and Health Information for Spain
Recommended (Routine) Vaccines
Make sure the following standard UK vaccines are current:
MMR
Protects against Measles, Mumps, Rubella
Ensure you have had 2 doses
Diphtheria, Tetanus & Polio (DTP)
UK adults typically have this from childhood
A 10-year booster is recommended if yours is out of date
Covid-19
Up-to-date vaccination advised
Spain does not currently require proof, but staying current is recommended for health protection
UK Government Travel Advice
Spanish Weather
Weather in Spain – Summary by Season
Spain has varied climates:
Mediterranean (Barcelona, Valencia, Balearics, southern & eastern coasts)
Continental (Madrid, interior)
Oceanic (Basque Country, Asturias, Galicia)
Subtropical (Canary Islands)
Summer (June – August)
Hot, dry, sunny – peak tourist season
Mediterranean Coast: 28–34°C, dry, sunny
Inland (Madrid, Castilla): 30–40°C, very hot
North Coast: 22–28°C, mild & wetter
Canaries: 24–28°C, warm, breezy
Rainfall: Very low except in the north
Wildlife note: Best for whales in the Strait of Gibraltar; birdlife in wetlands early summer
Autumn (September – November)
Warm early; cooling by November; rains return
September: 24–30°C on coasts
October–November: 15–24°C
Inland: Cool evenings, 10–18°C
North: Wettest season
Wildlife note: Excellent for bird migration across the Pyrenees, Strait of Gibraltar & Doñana
Winter (December – February)
Varies widely depending on the region
Mediterranean Coast: Mild (12–18°C), some rain
Inland: Cold; 5–12°C; nights near freezing
North Coast: Cool & wet (10–15°C)
Canary Islands: Warm (20–24°C), ideal winter sun
Wildlife note: Good for lynx and raptor sightings in Andalusia; whale watching in the Canaries
Spring (March – May)
Warm, bright, and one of the best times to visit
Temps: 16–25°C widely
Rain: Moderate and decreasing through spring
Inland: Fresh mornings, warm afternoons
North: Green & mild
Wildlife note: Peak birdwatching season; Andalusia & Extremadura are exceptional
Regional Highlights
Mediterranean Spain (Barcelona, Valencia, Alicante)
Hot summers, mild winters, low rainfall
Andalusia (Seville, Málaga, Cádiz)
Very hot summers (often 40°C+ inland), warm winters
Madrid & Interior
Large temperature swings
Hot dry summers, cold winters
Northern Spain (Galicia, Asturias, Basque Country)
Mild summers, wet winters; green landscapes
Canary Islands
Subtropical climate
Warm year-round, low rainfall
Suggested Packing List for Spain
Clothing
Neutral outdoor colours recommended (beige, olive, grey).
Avoid bright colours in bird hides or sensitive areas.
Essentials
Lightweight long-sleeve shirts (sun protection)
Short-sleeve T-shirts
1–2 pairs lightweight trousers (zip-offs optional)
Shorts (great for summer; avoid in mosquito-dense wetlands)
Warm fleece or mid-layer
Waterproof/windproof jacket (unpredictable in north & mountains)
Comfortable walking/hiking shoes
Breathable socks
Sun hat or cap
Buff or light scarf (sun, wind, dust)
Swimwear (many beaches, and hotel pools are common)
Season-specific
Summer (June–Aug):
Extra breathable clothing
Wide-brim sun hat
Cooling towel
Very light long sleeves for sun protection
Winter (Dec–Feb):
Down or insulated jacket
Thermal base layers (Pyrenees, Picos, Sierra Morena can be cold)
Gloves & beanie for early mornings
Waterproof boots (north + mountains)
2. Gear & Wildlife Equipment
Binoculars (8×32, 10×42, or 12×50 for raptors
Spotting scope + tripod (essential for birding in Doñana, Ebro Delta, Monfragüe)
Camera + telephoto lens
Memory cards & spare batteries
Daypack
Reusable water bottle
Field guide to birds/mammals of Spain (or app)
Notebook or wildlife logbook
Power bank
Universal adapter (Type C/F plugs mostly used)
Torch/headlamp (dawn/dusk outings, rural lodges)
3. Sun, Insect & Outdoor Protection
Spain gets strong sun, especially in the south.
SPF 30–50 sunscreen
SPF lip balm
Sunglasses (UV protection)
Insect repellent (mosquitoes in wetlands; lower risk elsewhere)
After-bite soothing cream
Small first-aid kit
Rehydration salts (for hot Andalusia interiors)
4. Toiletries & Personal Items
Basic toiletries (toothpaste, soap, shampoo, deodorant)
Travel towel (if wild swimming)
Hand sanitiser
Wet wipes
Any prescription medicines
Blister plasters if hiking
5. Documents & Travel Essentials
Passport / ID (depending on nationality)
Reservations, park permits, lodge confirmations
Travel insurance
Credit/debit cards
Some cash for rural cafés or hides
