Spain is a beautiful city with vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and rich history. Spain is one of top destinations for travelers worldwide. However, one of the biggest concerns when planning a trip to this European city is the cost of flights. If you want to save money on airfare, timing your trip is very important. In this blog, we’ll help you navigate the best time to book flights to Spain for a budget-friendly journey. We will explore the cheapest months to fly to Spain, what points to remember before flying to Spain.
When Is the Cheapest Time to Fly to Spain?
The cost of flying to Spain can vary significantly depending on several factors such as the time of year, departure city, and even day of the week. However, based on data from trusted sources such as Skyscanner, Kayak, and industry insights from airlines, there are certain months that consistently offer the best deals.
1. Low Season (November – March)
The cheapest months to fly to Spain are typically during the low season, which runs from November to March. During this period, especially in the months of January and February, you will find the lowest airfare rates.
- Why?
The winter months in Spain are considered off-peak for tourism. The weather in many parts of Spain can be cooler, especially in cities like Madrid or Barcelona, but the lower demand for flights and accommodations leads to significant savings. Christmas and New Year’s Eve can still bring higher prices due to the holiday rush, but overall, this is a time when airlines tend to offer discounts to fill seats. - Best Deals:
Airlines like Iberia, Vueling, and budget carriers such as Ryanair and EasyJet often run promotions during these months, making it easier to secure a cheap flight. If you are flexible with your dates, you could even find fares as low as $300–$500 round-trip from major U.S. cities.
2. Shoulder Season (April – Early June & September – October)
Another great time to find affordable flights to Spain is during the shoulder seasons — April to June and September to October. These months represent a sweet spot where the weather is favorable, but the crowds are smaller compared to the peak summer months.
- Why?
Spring (April – June) and fall (September – October) bring mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and lower airfares than the summer months. While prices may rise slightly compared to the winter low season, the added benefit is that you’ll have better weather for sightseeing without dealing with the intense heat or large crowds. - Best Deals:
You can often find round-trip flights from the U.S. to Spain in the range of $500–$700 during these months. Booking a few months in advance will give you the best chance of securing a deal.
What Makes These Months Cheaper?
Several factors contribute to the cheaper prices during these months:
- Demand:
Low demand during the winter months and shoulder seasons means airlines offer lower fares to attract customers. - Competition:
Spain is served by several low-cost carriers within Europe, which means competition keeps prices in check. - Weather and Festivals:
Summer in Spain sees higher demand due to festivals and the prime tourist season. During off-peak months, airlines know that tourists are less likely to fly, so they lower prices to encourage bookings.
Tips for Finding the Cheapest Flights to Spain
- Book in Advance
Booking your flight at least 2 to 3 months in advance can help you lock in the best fares. Airlines often release their cheapest tickets during this window, and you can monitor price fluctuations using flight comparison tools. - Use Fare Alerts
Set up fare alerts on flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak. These alerts will notify you when there’s a significant drop in price for flights to Spain. - Consider Alternate Airports
Spain has several major airports such as Barcelona El Prat, Madrid Barajas, and Valencia. Be sure to check flights to other regional airports, as they can sometimes offer cheaper alternatives, especially for budget airlines. - Flexibility Is Key
If your travel dates are flexible, you’ll have a better chance of finding lower fares. Flights during the middle of the week (Tuesday and Wednesday) tend to be cheaper than weekend flights. - Watch for Sales
Keep an eye on special sales from airlines, such as Black Friday or Cyber Monday deals. Many budget airlines, including Norwegian Air and Air Europa, have flash sales that can offer significant discounts.
Avoiding Peak Season (June – August)
The summer months (June – August) are the most expensive times to visit Spain. This is when tourism is at its peak, and demand for flights is highest. While summer in Spain offers great weather and a lively atmosphere, ticket prices can skyrocket, especially from North America.
During peak months, round-trip flights to Spain can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,200 or more, depending on your departure city. If your goal is to save on airfare, avoid traveling during this time.
Conclusion
For budget-conscious travelers, the cheapest months to fly to Spain are typically January, February, and November during the low season. The shoulder seasons of April – June and September – October also offer great deals while providing pleasant weather for sightseeing. By booking in advance, setting fare alerts, and staying flexible with your travel dates, you can secure a budget-friendly trip to Spain. So, if you’re planning to explore the beauty of Spain without breaking the bank, aim for those off-peak months and get ready for an unforgettable yet affordable adventure!
Also read: Manila Philippines Islands: Complete Guide to the Most Beautiful Islands Near Manila
FAQs
The cheapest months to fly to Spain are usually January and February. These months have fewer tourists, so airlines offer lower prices.
Yes, November is often affordable, especially in early and mid-November. Prices may increase near the end of the month because of Christmas travel.
No. Summer (June to August) is the most expensive time to fly to Spain. This is peak tourist season, and flight prices are high.
Winter is cheaper, but spring offers better weather. If you want the lowest prices, choose winter. If you want comfort and still fair prices, spring is a good choice.
It’s best to book your flight 2 to 3 months in advance. Booking early helps you find better deals.
Yes. Flights on Tuesdays and Wednesdays are often cheaper than flights on weekends.
Major airports like Madrid and Barcelona often have better deals. Sometimes smaller cities also offer cheaper options with budget airlines.
Yes. Cooler months have fewer travelers, so prices drop. Hot summer months attract more tourists, making flights expensive.
Sometimes, but it’s risky. Last-minute flights are usually expensive, especially in summer. Planning early is safer and cheaper.
Yes! Spain is beautiful year-round. In winter, cities are less crowded, hotels are cheaper, and you can enjoy local culture more easily.
