Not too hot, not too cold, and action packed—that’s Madrid in April for you. You’ve arrived in Madrid at one of the best times of the year. The weather can be chilly or warm, but never freezing or scorching—it’s just right.
What’s more, you also won’t have to push your way through massive crowds. It’s not high season for tourism yet, so the Spanish capital is all yours to enjoy!
Springtime in Madrid is nothing short of magical. As flowers spring into bloom throughout the city and outdoor terraces start filling up with locals enjoying the fresh air, the city begins to take on the vibrant energy we all know and love.
As a bonus, visiting Madrid in April is easier on your wallet, too. Flight and hotel prices are overall lower at this time of year than during the summer high season, so you can get more bang for your buck (or euro) on other activities during your trip.
Ready to explore? Here’s everything you need to know about visiting Madrid in April.
Weather in Madrid in April
Crisp, sunny spring days are a given throughout much of April in Madrid. Daytime temperatures often settle in the mid-60s Fahrenheit (16–18º Celsius). Dress in comfortable layers: A jacket will probably be necessary when you set out sightseeing first thing in the morning, but you likely won’t need it as it warms up into the afternoon.
Madrid is one of Europe’s sunniest cities, and most days throughout April will be at least partly sunny. However, that old saying about April showers is true here, too. Be sure to pack a compact umbrella in case you end up in Madrid on one of the 10 days (on average) it rains here in April.
Things to Do in Madrid in April
Take Long Strolls Through Amazing Parks
Here’s a bold statement for you: Madrid has the best parks on the planet.
The Spanish capital’s green spaces really whisk you away from, well, the city. They’re open all year round, but April is a great time to explore them because of the good weather and the general springtime blooming.
Whatever you do, make sure you include the Manzanares River Park on your list. It forks into three different parks: the San Isidro—a never-ending series of parks and plazas that lead to a stunning lookout point—Casa de Campo, and Parque de Oeste.
Get Lost in an Endless Maze of Art Galleries
Since April isn’t a busy month for tourism in Madrid, you can avoid the crowds at some of Madrid’s most famous museums, such as the Prado, the Reina Sofia and the Thyssen. But don’t stop there. While Art Week in Madrid may have ended in March, exhibits showcasing contemporary avant-garde art keep popping up at iconic cultural centers all over the city.
Temporary galleries to dazzle your eyes and imagination can be found at Matadero, Caixa Forum, Círculo de Bellas Artes, and Casa Encendida. But if you really want to do some exploring, you can seek out captivating exhibits off the beaten path.
Enjoy Madrid’s Rooftops, Terraces, and Patios
What would a list of recommendations for Madrid be without a single mention of the city’s most cherished characteristics: the bustling life on the streets, the many restaurants with outdoor seating, and of course, the rooftop bars!
April is the most comfortable time to soak up the sun, drink in hand. It’s not too busy, and of course, the weather is fresh and crisp, with the enticing scent of spring everywhere.
So have a caña on a terrace, or at a rooftop bar, where you can marvel at the lively Spanish capital’s enchanting landscape.
Head to the Race Track
Madrid’s horse racing scene may not be as famous worldwide as Kentucky’s, but don’t count it out just yet. Throughout the spring and summer (including every Sunday in April), races take place at this historic La Zarzuela racetrack.
In addition to the exciting races themselves, the venue also does an excellent job of providing fun activities for the whole family, including food trucks, a picnic area, and even bouncy castles and face painting for kids. Head here for a perfect day out in Madrid in April that everyone will enjoy.
Madrid in April FAQs
Yes! For the most part, April weather throughout most of Spain is crisp and mild (though rain is not out of the question), and it’s not quite peak season for tourism, so you won’t have to deal with as many crowds.
Flight and hotel prices are at their lowest during the winter months. While they do start to increase a bit in early spring, April still makes for a budget-friendly time of year to travel to Spain.
Update Notice: This post was updated on February 6th, 2023.
