Malaga Weather: Monthly Temperatures and Best Time to Visit
Planning a trip to Malaga? Check the official weather forecast below, then compare monthly temperatures, rain and what to pack. May, June, September and October are usually the best months for an all-round visit; July and August suit a beach-first holiday, while winter works well for culture and mild daytime sunshine.
Updated September 2026 · Climate figures checked against AEMET
Today’s official forecast
Malaga weather today
Partly cloudy
- Rain
- 20%
- Wind
- SE 10 km/h
- UV index
- 5
Forecast for Malaga city. Updated . Source: AEMET.
The live card above shows the official forecast for Malaga city. The guide below uses long-term climate averages, so use it to choose your month rather than to predict the weather on a particular day.
Malaga weather in October vs November
October: average daytime high 24.1°C, overnight low 15.0°C, 57 mm of rain and 4.4 rainy days. Pack light clothes, an evening layer, walking shoes and a compact waterproof. November: average high 20.1°C, low 11.3°C, 100 mm of rain and 5.6 rainy days. Add warmer evening layers and plan flexible museum visits for wet weather. These are AEMET Malaga Airport climate averages for 1981–2010, not a forecast for your stay.
| Climate average | October | November |
|---|---|---|
| Daytime high / overnight low | 24.1°C / 15.0°C | 20.1°C / 11.3°C |
| Rainfall / rainy days | 57 mm / 4.4 days | 100 mm / 5.6 days |
| What to pack | Light clothes, evening layer, waterproof | Layers, jacket, waterproof and closed shoes |
For detailed advice, jump to October weather or November weather. On a wet day, explore our Malaga museums guide; for a dry day, plan a route with the Malaga city guide.
Malaga weather at a glance
Malaga has a mild Mediterranean climate and works as a year-round city break. Summer is reliably hot and dry. Winter days are often bright and pleasant, although mornings and evenings can feel cool. Most rain falls in short episodes from autumn to early spring rather than as weeks of continuous grey weather.
Average Malaga temperatures and rainy days
These are the official 1981–2010 climate normals for Malaga Airport. The high and low figures are average daily maximum and minimum temperatures, not records. Central Malaga and the seafront can feel slightly different, and any individual year can be warmer, cooler, wetter or drier.
| Month | Avg high / low | Rain days | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 16.8° / 7.4°C | 5.8 | Quiet city breaks |
| February | 17.7° / 8.2°C | 4.8 | Winter sun |
| March | 19.6° / 9.8°C | 4.0 | Sightseeing |
| April | 21.4° / 11.1°C | 4.5 | Spring colour |
| May | 24.3° / 14.2°C | 3.1 | Everything |
| June | 28.1° / 18.0°C | 0.8 | Beach + city |
| July | 30.5° / 20.5°C | 0.1 | Beach holidays |
| August | 30.8° / 21.1°C | 0.5 | Feria + beach |
| September | 28.2° / 18.8°C | 2.1 | Warm sea |
| October | 24.1° / 15.0°C | 4.4 | Warm sightseeing |
| November | 20.1° / 11.3°C | 5.6 | Culture, fewer crowds |
| December | 17.5° / 8.9°C | 6.6 | Christmas lights |
Source: AEMET standard climate values for Malaga Airport, period 1981–2010. A rainy day means at least 1mm of precipitation.
What Malaga’s monthly averages do not tell you
Rain is irregular. An average of six rainy days does not mean one wet day every week. Malaga can have a run of dry, bright weather followed by a short period of heavy rain. Check the forecast rather than cancelling a winter trip because of a monthly statistic.
The sun changes how the temperature feels. A still 17°C winter afternoon can be warm on a south-facing terrace, while the same temperature feels much cooler after sunset or in a sea breeze. Layers are more useful than one heavy item outside midsummer.
The terral can interrupt the pattern. This dry local wind sometimes sends summer temperatures sharply above the average for a day or two. Humid easterly winds can have the opposite effect on comfort, even when the thermometer is lower. Read our fuller explanation of Malaga’s climate, rain and local winds.
Sea and air temperatures follow different calendars. The air warms quickly in spring, but the Mediterranean takes longer. The sea is generally most inviting from early summer into autumn and often feels warmest after the peak air temperatures have passed.
Malaga weather month by month
Malaga weather in January
Average high 16.8°C · Low 7.4°C · 5.8 rainy days
January is one of Malaga’s quietest months. In a sunny, sheltered spot, lunchtime can feel surprisingly warm, but the temperature drops quickly after sunset. Pack layers, a light waterproof jacket and closed shoes. The sea is at its coolest, so swimming is mainly for hardy regulars.
This is a good month for museums, monuments and crowd-free meals. The Three Kings’ Parade on 5 January is the big family event, and the winter sales start just after it. See our Malaga shopping guide and the city’s art highlights.
For current dates and indoor alternatives, see what’s on in Malaga in November and our complete museums guide. If you are travelling for Christmas lights, check the 2026 Christmas announcements before choosing your dates.
Malaga weather in February
Average high 17.7°C · Low 8.2°C · 4.8 rainy days
February brings longer days and a little more warmth. You may be comfortable in a T-shirt in the midday sun, but you will still want a jumper and jacket in the morning and evening. The Mediterranean remains cold, although a sunny beach walk is very pleasant.
Carnival adds colour, music and family events to the centre; its dates change each year, so check our current Malaga Carnival guide. Outside the celebrations, accommodation and attractions are generally less busy than in spring or summer.
Malaga weather in March
Average high 19.6°C · Low 9.8°C · 4.0 rainy days
Spring arrives early in Malaga. Parks begin to bloom, daylight increases and daytime temperatures are ideal for walking. Bring light layers, sun protection and a compact waterproof. Sunbathing is realistic on a calm afternoon; the water still feels fresh to most swimmers.
March is a strong choice for active sightseeing before the hotter months. The Malaga Film Festival is usually a major fixture, while Holy Week sometimes begins in late March. Our guide to a spring holiday in Malaga has more ideas.
Malaga weather in April
Average high 21.4°C · Low 11.1°C · 4.5 rainy days
April is warm enough for terrace lunches and occasional beach afternoons without the sustained heat of summer. Spring showers are possible, but they are often separated by bright spells. UV levels are already strong, so sunscreen and a hat belong in your day bag.
Wisteria at the Concepción Botanical Gardens is a seasonal highlight. If Easter falls in April, expect spectacular processions, road closures, higher room rates and very busy central streets; use our practical Easter in Malaga guide.
Malaga weather in May
Average high 24.3°C · Low 14.2°C · 3.1 rainy days
May is our favourite all-round month. It is warm enough for the beach, the evenings are increasingly balmy and most days still suit long walks around the historic centre. Rain becomes less likely, while gardens and the rose beds beside City Hall are at their best.
Pack summer clothes, a light layer for later and proper sun protection. The sea may still feel brisk, but swimming becomes much more inviting. International Museum Day and Noche en Blanco add cultural interest; browse our complete museum guide before you go.
Malaga weather in June
Average high 28.1°C · Low 18.0°C · 0.8 rainy days
June combines dependable beach weather with evenings that are still comfortable for walking and outdoor dining. Rain is rare. By the second half of the month, plan exposed sights for the morning, pause during the hottest hours and keep water with you.
The sea is warming and beach restaurants are in full summer mode. On 23 June, the Night of San Juan fills the beaches with bonfires, music and a midnight celebration. June is popular, but normally less intense than July and August.
Malaga weather in July
Average high 30.5°C · Low 20.5°C · 0.1 rainy days
July is hot, dry and made for a beach-first itinerary. Nights remain warm, and full-day sightseeing on foot can be tiring. Visit outdoor monuments early, choose air-conditioned museums after lunch and return to the streets in the evening. A hat, high-factor sunscreen and a refillable bottle are essentials.
The city comes alive after dark with open-air cinema, music and cultural events. Use our Malaga beach guide for daytime planning and our favourite roof terraces when the sun goes down.
Malaga weather in August
Average high 30.8°C · Low 21.1°C · 0.5 rainy days
August is the hottest month on the long-term averages. Humid easterly winds can make it feel sticky, while the dry local terral wind can briefly push temperatures much higher. Choose accommodation with reliable air conditioning and treat the middle of the day as downtime.
It is also peak holiday season. Beaches, restaurants and central streets are busy, especially during the Malaga Fair. Book rooms and popular activities early. If you enjoy hot weather, warm evenings and a citywide party, August can be unforgettable; it is less suitable for a packed sightseeing schedule.
Malaga weather in September
Average high 28.2°C · Low 18.8°C · 2.1 rainy days
September keeps the summer warmth but gradually loses the August crowds. The sea is usually at its most comfortable, evenings remain suitable for outdoor dining and sightseeing becomes easier as the month progresses. A brief shower is more possible than in midsummer, so add a light waterproof to otherwise summery clothes.
This is another excellent all-round choice, particularly after local schools return. New art exhibitions often open around this time, and Malaga Fashion Week brings its long outdoor catwalk to Calle Larios.
Malaga weather in October
Average high 24.1°C · Low 15.0°C · 4.4 rainy days
October is warm without being exhausting, making it one of the best months for a city break. The average high is 24.1°C and the overnight low is 15°C. Pack light clothes for sunny afternoons, a jumper or light jacket for evenings, walking shoes and a compact waterproof. Beach time can still work on a calm, sunny day, especially early in the month; swimming depends on the sea, wind and your tolerance for cool water.
Comfortable temperatures suit the Alcazaba, Gibralfaro and long lunches outside. The city also marks Picasso’s October birthday with exhibitions and events; check our current October for Picasso guide.
Turn the weather advice into a plan: browse events in Malaga in October, check the Halloween programme and use our seasonal Malaga packing checklist.
Malaga weather in November
Average high 20.1°C · Low 11.3°C · 5.6 rainy days
November is quieter and cooler, yet daytime temperatures remain mild by northern European standards: an average high of 20.1°C and overnight low of 11.3°C. Pack a waterproof jacket, closed shoes that cope with rain, lighter clothes for sunny afternoons and warmer evening layers. The historical average is 100 mm of rain across 5.6 rainy days; it does not predict when rain will fall during your stay. November suits a flexible city break more than a beach-first holiday.
This is a good month for museums, food and an unhurried city break. Roast chestnut stalls and chocolate with churros return, while the Malaga Jazz Festival is a cultural highlight. Browse our tried-and-tested places to eat in Malaga for wet-weather options.
Malaga weather in December
Average high 17.5°C · Low 8.9°C · 6.6 rainy days
December has the highest average number of rainy days, but bright spells are common and lunchtime in the sun can still feel warm. Nights are cool, so bring a proper jacket and layers. Sea swimming is a bracing choice rather than a typical holiday activity.
The famous lights turn the centre into a major evening attraction. Weekends and the period around Christmas can be busy even though it is winter, so reserve central accommodation early. Our regularly updated Christmas in Malaga guide covers lights, concerts, nativity scenes and practical details.
When should you visit Malaga?
For beaches: choose July, August or September. June is also excellent if you prefer slightly lower temperatures and do not mind cooler water.
For sightseeing: March to May and October to November offer the best balance. You can walk comfortably for longer and still enjoy terraces.
For fewer crowds: January, February and November are usually the calmest. Avoid major festival dates if quiet is your priority.
For events: Holy Week and the August Fair are the two biggest experiences, but they also bring crowds, road changes and higher demand. The Malaga events calendar will help you check current dates.
What to pack for Malaga weather
- Winter: layers, a light-to-medium jacket, waterproof outer layer and closed shoes.
- Spring: light clothes plus a jumper or jacket for evenings, sunscreen and a compact umbrella.
- Summer: breathable clothes, hat, high-factor sunscreen, refillable water bottle and comfortable sandals or shoes.
- Autumn: summer clothes for warm days, a light jacket and rain protection from October onward.
Malaga weather FAQs
What is the best month to visit Malaga?
May is the strongest all-round choice for warm weather, lower rainfall and comfortable sightseeing. June, September and October are equally good depending on whether beach time or city exploring matters more to you.
What is the hottest month in Malaga?
August has the highest long-term average maximum at 30.8°C, just ahead of July at 30.5°C. Short terral episodes can push daytime temperatures well above those averages.
Which month is the rainiest?
December has the highest average number of rainy days at 6.6. Rain often arrives in concentrated spells rather than lasting all month.
Is Malaga warm in winter?
Winter is mild rather than hot. Average highs are 16.8°C in January and 17.7°C in February, with colder mornings and evenings. Sunny, sheltered afternoons can feel warmer.
Can you swim in Malaga all year?
Some local swimmers do, but most visitors find the sea comfortable from late spring or early summer through autumn. It is coolest in winter and usually warmest in late summer.
Start planning your Malaga trip
- Compare flights to Malaga
- Book accommodation at the best available rate
- Arrange travel insurance
- Buy an eSIM for Spain
- Choose the best area to stay
- Check what is on during your dates
- Find the right Malaga beach
- Ask about private tapas and walking tours
- Discover Malaga restaurants
- Get our fortnightly Malaga newsletter
Whatever month you choose, Malaga rewards a flexible plan: use the cooler hours for the city, follow the latest forecast and leave time for the beach, a terrace or an unexpected local event.