Wondering what to wear in Madrid? Here’s a guide to Madrid’s fashion, which is chic yet approachable.
Planning OOTDs and mixing & matching clothing items are the start of everyone’s excitement when you travel Spain.
But let’s be real—planning your outfits with zero clue about Spain’s local fashion scene is not too different from packing blindfolded.
You’ll risk sticking out like a sore thumb, going against the norm of the local fashion culture.
Or, worse, you may wear something climate-inappropriate, making the rest of your trip uncomfortable.
As an avid traveler and fashion enthusiast who has lived in Spanish cities for 10 months, let me share what to wear in Madrid for every season.
Be fashionable while blending with the cultural norms of the capital of Spain!
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Overview: My Essential Packing List for Madrid
Understanding Madrid’s Climate
Before anything else, you must be familiar with Madrid’s climate in order to plan your outfits for your trip to the city.
After all, it’s crucial to know which types of clothing are appropriate for the season in which you’re visiting the city.
That said, remember that Madrid’s climate is classified as a Mediterranean climate. This means summers can be hot and dry, with temperatures exceeding 30°C (86°F).
Then, when winter comes around, the temperature becomes chilly, ranging from 2°C to 12°C (36°F to 54°F).
Suppose you’re visiting in Spring or Fall, on the other hand.
In that case, the temperatures range anywhere from 9°C to 24°C (48°F to 75°F), which means layering is necessary to accommodate the fluctuations in temperature throughout the day.
Overall, Madrid is an ideal sunny destination in summer, but for the rest of the year, a cardigan or light jacket will be helpful, depending on how cold the season gets.
Clothing Essentials by Season
Winter (December – February)
As mentioned, winter in Madrid usually means cool days and cold nights, occasionally accompanied by rain or frost.
But don’t imagine snow-covered streets requiring winter boots to traverse safely.
Madrid’s winter is still an ideal season for traveling, as temperatures usually only average about 6°C to 8°C (43°F to 46°F). You can still expect lots of sunshine and clear skies.
So, what to wear in Madrid in winter? Let’s go over the basics.
For your top, you want to pack at least one winter coat for nights when it gets cold. This doesn’t mean you’ll wear that coat every time you go out.
On sunny mornings, you can comfortably wear thinner jackets like leather jackets. Just make sure you opt for a thermal top as the base layer.
Now, to keep your legs warm, you’ll want to ensure they’re fully covered. Some popular choices are trousers and jeans. But you can also wear a dress or skirt with warm tights.
Of course, winter also calls for accessories for that extra warmth. I recommend bringing a thick scarf and a pair of gloves just in case you go on long night walks that get chilly.
Speaking of long walks, don’t forget about keeping your toes warm!
A pair of well-insulated boots will be your best friend when deciding what to wear in Madrid in December.
Spring (March – May)
It’s a little tricky to plan what to wear in Madrid in Spring. The weather’s unpredictable.
Even on mornings when you’re greeted with the warmest sunshine, you may encounter sudden rain and cold winds at night!
Based on experience, though, you’ll be fine if you pack many layers!
During Spring, daytime temperatures tend to stay around 15°C to 22°C (59°F to 72°F).
So, around April and May, locals will start wearing thinner fabrics like breathable tops and flowy dresses.
If you’re wondering what to wear in Madrid in March, make sure to bring clothes like light turtlenecks. Mornings and nights can be breezy.
All throughout spring, loose cardigans and light jackets will still be your coziest buddies. You never really know when the weather will dip colder.
Of course, bring shoes you can walk comfortably on while you visit landmarks, eat tapas, and explore museums.
You won’t necessarily need your footwear to be extra warm during this season, but make sure it’s close-toed.
Oh, and about accessories—you’ll want to either pack a raincoat or bring an umbrella. Madrid gets a lot of rain during spring.
Summer (June – August)
June, July, and August are the easiest months to decide what to wear in Madrid in summer.
You won’t need any layers, jackets, or coats throughout the summer.
Madrid remains hot from June to August, with temperatures staying above 30°C (86°F) in the mornings. Nighttime is cool but never cold as well.
So, yes— it’s the season for shorts, sundresses, tank tops, and airy pants! You’ll want every piece of clothing to be thin and light.
Of course, don’t forget your swimwear and outfit for summer night outs! If you’re planning to visit fancy nightclubs, you might want to pack heels, too.
Bring versatile footwear that can let you roam the city comfortably amidst the heat. Sandals and sneakers both work pretty well.
When deciding what to wear in Madrid in June, don’t forget about these accessories and add-ons:
Make sure to grab the classic, local favorite abanico, a handheld fan that’ll help you combat the heat of Madrid!
Fun fact: During summer, I love going on tapas tours, visiting Madrid beaches, and sunset hunting at places like the Mirador de la Cornisa observation deck.
Fall (September – November)
What to wear in Madrid in September and onward?
Well, when fall comes around, Madrid’s fashion scene once again welcomes layers into the mix.
It’s also the season of rain, so before anything else, make sure you have something to protect yourself from the cold winds and light showers.
My go-to’s are usually cozy sweaters, ankle boots, lightweight scarfs, hats, and either a raincoat or umbrella in case it pours.
You can still wear light fabrics like cotton or linen in the daytime.
Rarely anybody wears shorts past August in Madrid. So if you want to blend in, stick to jeans and trousers. Skirts and tights are also a great combo (for cooler days).
Hiking is one of the top-recommended activities in Madrid in the fall.
If you want to try this activity, pack appropriate hiking gear when planning what to wear in Madrid Spain in November or prior months.
Not much of an adventurer? Try winery hopping, or visit local events instead! There will be a lot of community events in Madrid in the fall.
Dressing for the Occasion
Sightseeing
Sightseeing is one of my go-to activities in Madrid. Trust me, though, you can’t really enjoy this activity to the full extent if you don’t dress accordingly.
Ensure comfort and practicality when choosing your fits.
My personal essentials and comfy sneakers or loafers. For my clothes, I usually opt for chic outfits like wearing jeans to go with stylish blouses.
Consider wearing a light backpack if you’re gonna be outside for an entire day.
Outdoor Activities (Hiking or Parks)
Madrid’s hiking trails never disappoint. Even in cooler months, you’ll find hundreds of locals and tourists alike indulging in this activity.
When hiking, make sure to wear sturdy hiking shoes. Activewear is the best outfit choice, and don’t forget to pack a lightweight jacket in case the temperatures dip.
Evening Dining and Nightlife
Let’s talk about what to wear in Madrid at night!
No trip to Madrid is complete without a few nights of fine dining and the city’s nightlife scene. For these occasions, you’ll want to opt for smart-casual attire.
For women, dresses or tailored trousers with stylish tops are the norm in the local fashion scene. For men, button-up shirts and chinos are classics.
Some upscale venues may require you to wear heels and dress shoes. If unsure, do some research about the venue prior to visiting.
Stylish Accessories
Sunglasses: Even in winter, the sun’s glare in Madrid can still be pretty fierce. So, sunglasses are a mainstay in Madrid’s fashion scene all year long.
Scarves: Except for the summer months, scarves are a classic accessory that’s both fashionable and practical.
Leather handbags: Putting things like phones and wallets out in the open puts you at risk of pickpockets. Handbags are a nice accessory that makes you look more put-together and also allow you to carry your essentials safely.
Cultural Considerations
Blend in with Local Fashion
Madrileños’ fashion trends lean toward chic but casual. Neutral colors are often preferred, so avoid wearing overly casual or even sporty clothes.
Cardigans, polo shirts, and light jackets are going to be your best choices.
Respect Religious and Historical Sites
If you’re planning to visit churches, monuments, and other sacred places, make sure you’re not wearing shorts or tank tops.
The general rule of thumb is the less skin you show, the better. Lightweight shawls or scarves will come handy in covering your shoulders if you’re wearing sleeveless tops.
Seasonal Festivities and Events
Festivities and events usually have their dress codes. So, it’s best to do some research before attending.
If you’re planning to attend Carnival in February, for example, you’re encouraged to wear playful outfits. Think along the lines of sparky getups and costumes.
For cultural performances, like flamenco shows or theater, smart-casual or semi-formal attire is preferred.
Of course, if you’re attending sports or matches, it’s encouraged to wear something related to the game! For example, a Real Madrid jersey is the perfect option if you’re attending a Real Madrid game.
Practical Tips for Tourists
Some tips to make sure you slay your OOTDs in Madrid without sacrificing comfort, safety, and style:
- Keep a close eye on the weather: While in Madrid, check the weather forecast for the day before going out. This ensures you can dress appropriately, according to the weather.
- Wear sturdy shoes: Madrid will require walking more steps than expected. It’s that walkable. Make sure your shoes are designed for comfortable support during hours of continuous walking.
- Pack for the nightlife: Dressing up casually for Madrid’s nightlife may get odd looks from the locals. So, ensure you have fancier attire, especially for evening events and the nightlife scene!
Essential Items to Pack
We’ve covered what to wear in Madrid, Spain, all year. But packing isn’t only about the clothes, right?
Here are some essentials that you must not forget about when packing for your trip to Spain!
- Tech Essentials: Travel adapters for your electronics, a compact toiletry bag, and a power bank are just some examples.
- Cold weather essentials: HEATTECH clothing and moisture-wicking socks are ideal when packing outfits for the colder season. You’ll conserve body heat and prevent sweat from being absorbed by the fabric.
- Warm weather essentials: Sunscreen and sunglasses are classics, of course. Apart from these, I recommend having a lightweight shawl for additional sun coverage.
Final Thoughts on What to Wear in Madrid
There you have it—the tried-and-tested list of what to pack for Madrid.
Pack the necessary layers and accessories, and you should be able to create picture-perfect outfits that blend in with Spain’s culture with zero problems.
Remember, though, that the clothes I’ve listed are more or less just the basics.
Don’t be too afraid to explore other styles! Just remember that the Madrid street style and fashion scene lean toward chic and timeless styles!
Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀
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