Weather overview
Granada enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination. The city sits at the foot of the Sierra Nevada mountains, which adds a touch of variety to its weather patterns. While July and August bring intense heat, the rest of the year offers pleasant conditions for exploring Granada’s historic streets and landmarks.
From November to March, Granada experiences cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings, but snow is rare in the city itself. The shoulder seasons—April to June and September to October—are particularly appealing, with warm days and fewer crowds. Rainfall is modest, though December and January see the most precipitation.
Temperature
In Granada, summer temperatures often climb above 30 °C, with July and August reaching highs of 35.6 °C and 35.2 °C, respectively. Nights remain warm, rarely dropping below 19 °C, so air conditioning becomes a welcome relief. If you’re sensitive to heat, visiting in June or September might be more comfortable, with daytime highs around 30 °C and cooler evenings.
Winter in Granada is mild compared to much of Europe, with daytime temperatures hovering around 13–15 °C in December and January. Frost is uncommon, though nights can dip to 3–5 °C, so a light jacket is useful. Spring and autumn bring the most balanced weather: April and May see highs of 20–25 °C, while October offers similar warmth before the gradual cooldown into November.
| Month | Minimum | Maximum |
|---|---|---|
| January | 3 | 13.6 |
| February | 4.3 | 16.8 |
| March | 3.7 | 19.2 |
| April | 8.3 | 20.3 |
| May | 11.5 | 25.4 |
| June | 16.2 | 30.8 |
| July | 20.3 | 35.6 |
| August | 19.3 | 35.2 |
| September | 15.2 | 29.1 |
| October | 11.8 | 24.5 |
| November | 7.8 | 17.5 |
| December | 5.4 | 14.9 |
Precipitation
Granada is one of Spain’s drier cities, with most rainfall concentrated in the cooler months. December is the wettest month, averaging 60.3 mm of rain, followed by January with 51.5 mm. Even during these months, showers are usually brief, leaving plenty of dry, sunny spells for sightseeing.
From June to August, rain is almost nonexistent, with July recording just 0.8 mm of precipitation. The rest of the year sees modest rainfall, though April and November can bring occasional downpours. If you prefer dry weather, Granada’s summer months are ideal, though the heat may offset the lack of rain for some travelers.
| Month | Precipitation |
|---|---|
| January | 51.5 |
| February | 36 |
| March | 23.3 |
| April | 56.1 |
| May | 34.7 |
| June | 13.6 |
| July | 0.8 |
| August | 1.1 |
| September | 35.3 |
| October | 33 |
| November | 42.6 |
| December | 60.3 |
What to pack
For a summer trip to Granada, pack lightweight, breathable clothing to cope with the 30+ °C heat. A wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential, as the sun is strong even in the early morning. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for exploring the Alhambra’s steep paths and Granada’s cobbled streets. If you plan to visit in July or August, consider a portable fan or cooling towel for extra relief.
In winter, layers are key for Granada’s mild but variable weather. A light jacket or sweater will suffice for daytime, but evenings can feel chilly, especially in December and January, when temperatures drop to 3–5 °C. A compact umbrella or waterproof layer is useful for the occasional rain shower. For spring or autumn visits, a mix of short- and long-sleeved tops will cover the 15–25 °C range comfortably.
| Month | Wind speed |
|---|---|
| January | 2.6 |
| February | 2.8 |
| March | — |
| April | 2.9 |
| May | 3.1 |
| June | 3 |
| July | 2.8 |
| August | 2.4 |
| September | 2.3 |
| October | 2.8 |
| November | 2.4 |
| December | 2.1 |