The climate in Spain is as varied as its culture. From the temperate Mediterranean, through to the central mountainous climate and the rainy Atlantic, the country is diverse while also being surrounded by mild temperature cycles thanks to its strategic position as a European peninsula.
If you are planning your move but still don’t know where you want to live, we’ll tell you which of Spain’s climates is the best to live in, backed up with opinions from families who choose the Best Schools in Spain!
The climate in Spain is as varied as its culture. From the temperate Mediterranean, through to the central mountainous climate and the rainy Atlantic, the country is diverse while also being surrounded by mild temperature cycles thanks to its strategic position as a European peninsula.
If you are planning your move but still don’t know where you want to live, we’ll tell you which of Spain’s climates is the best to live in, backed up with opinions from families who choose the Best Schools in Spain!
What is the general climate like in Spain?
Let’s start at the beginning. Just as we know that England has a rainy climate and cold temperatures throughout most of the country or that Brazil is humid and warm, in Spain there are certain common factors despite its diversity.
The country’s average temperature is 10ºC, with cool summers in the north of the country and hot summers in the centre and south. Nonetheless, the winters are generally cold, except for some areas of Andalusia.
Rain, on the other hand, is different in each area of the country. In the north, rain is abundant and seen almost throughout the entire year; however, in the south it tends to be less common due to the dry and hot climate. Do you want to discover each type of climate? Keep reading!
The 4 different climates of Spain: from north to south
Atlantic climate
The Atlantic climate, which stretches from Galicia to the Basque Country and part of Navarra, is humid and mild with moderate rainfall of between 1,000 and 1,500 mm throughout the year and mild temperatures in winter, with averages ranging between 8 and 12 degrees.
This area has great scenery and a stunning natural landscape, with lush vegetation and lot of greenery thanks to the abundant rainfall throughout the year. It is the favourite destination of adventure and nature lovers.
Mountain climate
In general, the temperatures are lower than in coastal areas and the climate is drier and more continental. It is seen in mountain ranges such as the Pyrenees, the Central Mountains and the Cantabrian Mountains, to name but a few.
Generally, the temperatures are cold and there is abundant precipitation, with frequent snowfall in the highest areas. If you are going to travel or live in an area with this climate, bear in mind that it can vary depending on the altitude and geographical location of the region.
Mediterranean climate
The peninsula’s most diverse climate as it differs depending on the region. We’re talking about the coastal Mediterranean climate, the interior Mediterranean climate and the arid Mediterranean climate.
On the one hand, the coastal Mediterranean climate is characterised by warm temperatures that can reach 40º in summer and 30º during the spring. In winter, these usually drop to 8ºC and can go even lower due to the effect of the sea. This climate is found in the south and southeast of Spain.
The interior Mediterranean climate, which is found in Spain’s interior regions such as Castilla la Mancha or Madrid, is defined by hot and dry summers, with maximums that can exceed 35 degrees, and cold and humid winters reaching 0ºC.
Finally, the arid Mediterranean climate, typical of northeastern Spain (mostly Catalonia), has hot temperatures throughout the year and is arid with scarce rainfall, unlike the other Mediterranean climates. The area is so arid due to the influence of the surrounding mountains.
Subtropical climate
Finally, the subtropical climate of the Canary Islands is characterised by warm temperatures throughout most of the year, with relatively high humidity and a more prominent rainy season than in other areas of the country.
There is a great variety of vegetation, adapting to the climate in each area. The driest and hottest areas are home to plants such as cacti, while laurel and pine forests are found in the wetter and cooler areas.
Which is the best climate to live in?
The moment of truth: which of these climates makes for the best quality of life? This is a very ambiguous question, as each individual and family is different and has specific preferences.
If you prefer a cooler climate with breathtaking scenery, the Atlantic climate is for you. If, on the other hand, you prefer sun and warmth, we recommend the Mediterranean lifestyle and climate. The Canary Islands, on the other hand, have the greatest variety of natural landscapes, making them the perfect destination for those who want plenty of vegetation but don’t want to forgo a warm climate.
As we have said, in general, the Mediterranean climate is the favourite of tourists visiting Spain because of the warm weather and beaches, but some people prefer cooler, mountainous areas where they can partake in outdoor sports all year round.
Is it important to consider the climate when choosing where to live in Spain? The answer is a resounding “yes” as this factor directly affects the mood and personality of the inhabitants and even the cuisine of each region.
Have you already chosen your favourite climate and where you want to live, but still don’t have the perfect school for your children? BSS will take care of all your needs with some of the best-rated academic institutions in the country.
Search for the province where you have decided to live and find the schools that are most recommended by families. What are you waiting for?!!
