Why Spain is even better outside the summer months

24 April 2026

Spain in summer often means busy resorts, packed city centres, and temperatures that can make even short walks feel like hard work. Visiting in spring or autumn changes the pace completely. Days are still warm and bright, but without the intensity, which makes it far easier to enjoy everything from sightseeing to long, relaxed meals outdoors. You will also notice fewer queues at major attractions, more availability at popular hotels, and a general sense that you can take your time rather than plan everything around the crowds.

Why Spain is even better outside the summer months

Easier to explore cities without the heat

Cities like Seville and Granada are far more comfortable once the peak summer heat passes. You can spend proper time exploring the Real Alcázar in Seville, walking through its detailed courtyards and gardens, or take in the views from the Alhambra in Granada without rushing between shaded spots. In Barcelona, moving between Park Güell, Casa Batlló, and the Sagrada Família becomes a much more enjoyable experience, and you can take a slower walk along Las Ramblas or sit by Barceloneta Beach without feeling overwhelmed by both heat and crowds.

Seasonal food worth travelling for

Travelling outside the summer months also means catching Spain at a great time for food. Menus tend to reflect what is actually in season, which makes a noticeable difference. In autumn, you will see dishes built around mushrooms, especially in regions like Catalonia and Castilla y León, along with rich stews and slow-cooked meats. Winter brings things like cocido madrileño, a hearty chickpea stew often served in stages, while spring is known for fresh asparagus, artichokes and lighter plates. In San Sebastián, pintxos bars regularly update what is on offer depending on the time of year, and in Valencia, the rice dishes shift slightly with seasonal ingredients.

Coastal areas without the crowds

The coast still delivers warm weather well into autumn, but without the peak season rush. Along the Costa del Sol and Costa Blanca, beaches are quieter, and it is easier to find a good spot by the sea. In Valencia, you can cycle through the Turia Gardens, explore the futuristic City of Arts and Sciences, and sit down for an authentic paella near Malvarrosa Beach without needing to book far in advance. In San Sebastián, a walk along La Concha beach followed by pintxos in the Old Town feels far more relaxed when the summer crowds have eased.

A more local feel and better value

Travelling outside of summer often means seeing a more everyday side of Spain. Events like Seville’s Feria de Abril bring energy without the same level of overcrowding, while smaller celebrations such as the Moors and Christians festival in Setenil de las Bodegas feel more accessible. There is also a practical benefit, with lower prices on flights and accommodation and better availability overall. It all adds up to a trip that feels easier, more flexible and ultimately more enjoyable.

Ready to experience Spain outside the summer months? Speak to your personal Travel Counsellor today.

3 different ways to experience Malta on a city break

09 October 2026

A city break in Malta can look very different depending on how you like to travel. You could check into a five-star hotel and build your days around art, architecture, and Michelin-starred dining. You could slow everything down, wandering through neighbourhoods, stopping for pastizzi, and exploring historic towns. Or you could use the city as a base for hiking, kayaking, diving, and days spent discovering Malta’s coastline. Here are three ways to make a short break in Malta completely your own.

The perfect guide to a Valletta city break

09 October 2026

For a city break with plenty to see, eat, and experience, Valletta makes a wonderful choice. Malta’s compact capital is easy to explore on foot, with honey-coloured streets leading to grand palaces, historic churches, and harbour viewpoints. From its impressive fortifications to its lively restaurant scene, Valletta brings together centuries of history and a distinctly Mediterranean way of life, making it ideal for visitors who want more from a short break than simply sightseeing.

Travel Counsellors experience the magic of Bhutan

02 October 2026

Bhutan offers a rare sense of stepping away from the familiar. On a recent eight-night journey, a group of Travel Counsellors travelled from Thimphu to Gangtey, Punakha, and Paro, experiencing mountain passes, riverside valleys, ancient monasteries, local communities, and peaceful highland landscapes along the way. The itinerary combined significant landmarks with hands-on experiences and quieter moments, offering a thoughtful introduction to a country that still feels wonderfully untouched.

Why Spain is even better outside the summer months

3 different ways to experience Malta on a city break

The perfect guide to a Valletta city break

Travel Counsellors experience the magic of Bhutan

Keep dreaming with us

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.