Madrid Weather in February

February: crisp winter days

February feels cool and often bright, but evenings can turn cold. The average high is 12°C, while lows reach 1°C. Rain falls on about eight days, so you may get a damp spell between sunny walks. The weather is good for seeing the Prado, exploring La Latina's streets or lingering over lunch indoors. Retiro Park works on clear days, but skip a long outdoor stroll when rain sets in.

If you hate crowds, February is a calmer time to see Madrid's main sights than spring or autumn.

Events and local colour

Madrid's Carnival can fall in February, with parades and costumes around the city; its dates change each year. The San Blas festival, around 3 February, brings a procession near the Church of San Manuel y San Benito. Check the calendar for the year you're travelling, as Carnival may land in another month.

For a warming local meal, order cocido madrileño, a slow-cooked chickpea stew often served in courses. It suits a chilly afternoon better than a rushed snack.

Quieter, with one exception

February is winter low season, so you'll generally find fewer visitors and lower hotel prices than in Madrid's popular April-to-May and September-to-October periods. Art lovers may find the city busier around ARCOmadrid, the major contemporary art fair, usually held in February. The month is still a good choice for museum visits without peak-season crowds.

A practical tip: after the Prado, walk along the Paseo del Prado to Atocha rather than doubling back through the centre. If the weather turns wet, the route keeps you close to museums and cafés.