León, located on Spain’s Northern Plateau and very close to the Cantabrian Mountains, has a continental Atlantic climate, with cold winters, warm summers and strong contrasts between day and night. Before you travel, it’s useful to know what to expect in each season so you can pack properly and plan your excursions.
Below you’ll find a month-by-month guide with temperatures, rainy days and recommendations to make the most of your trip.
January
Average temperature: lows of -2 ºC / highs of 8 ºC
Rainy days: 9 on average
January is the coldest month of the year. Mornings often start with frost and patches of fog, giving the city a very special winter atmosphere. Even though sunny days are short, the light over the Cathedral and the old town has a unique charm.
It’s a perfect month for travellers who enjoy quiet, less crowded destinations. The chances of snow in the province make it easy to combine urban tourism with day trips to the León mountains.
February
Average temperature: lows of -1 ºC / highs of 9 ºC
Rainy days: 8 on average
February remains very cold, although the days slowly start to get longer. Mornings are usually chilly, while the sun softens the temperatures around midday.
It’s an ideal month for a gastronomic trip: stepping into traditional taverns, enjoying a hearty cocido maragato or tasting sliced cecina with a glass of Prieto Picudo wine is especially comforting in the middle of winter.
March
Average temperature: lows of 3 ºC / highs of 13 ºC
Rainy days: 9 on average
In March you can already feel the first signs of spring, although nights are still cold. The weather is changeable: you may get sunshine, showers or even a light snowfall during the first weeks.
It’s a great month to visit museums and monuments without crowds. As the first mild days arrive, terraces begin to fill with people enjoying the sun.
April
Average temperature: lows of 5 ºC / highs of 16 ºC
Rainy days: 11 on average
April is a very spring-like month, with mild, pleasant days, although rain is frequent. This is when León starts to fill with colour, especially in its parks and gardens.
Holy Week processions, declared of International Tourist Interest, attract thousands of visitors. If you plan to travel in April, it’s important to book your accommodation well in advance.
May
Average temperature: lows of 8 ºC / highs of 20 ºC
Rainy days: 10 on average
May is one of the most pleasant months in León. Days are longer, sunnier and with comfortable temperatures, perfect for strolling around the historic centre and soaking up the local atmosphere.
It’s an ideal time for nearby excursions such as Astorga or the Faedo de Ciñera, where spring is at its best and the landscape is especially lush.
June
Average temperature: lows of 11 ºC / highs of 25 ºC
Rainy days: 8 on average
In June, summer starts to make itself felt. Days are long and sunny, with warm but not extreme temperatures. Nights remain fresh, which makes it easier to sleep well.
This month is perfect for combining cultural visits in León with trips around the province, from hiking routes to wine tastings in Valdevimbre.
July
Average temperature: lows of 13 ºC / highs of 29–30 ºC
Rainy days: 5 on average
July is one of the warmest months. During the day the sun can be strong, but evenings and nights are still cool, which clearly sets León apart from many other Spanish cities.
It’s a lively month, with busy terraces and plenty of outdoor cultural activities. Ideal for travellers who want to enjoy the city at its most vibrant.
August
Average temperature: lows of 14 ºC / highs of 30 ºC
Rainy days: 6 on average
August brings hot days, but without the oppressive heat found in other regions of Spain. It’s a good moment to alternate sightseeing in the city with escapes to the mountains, where temperatures are milder.
The city fills with tourists and pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere in the middle of summer.
September
Average temperature: lows of 11 ºC / highs of 24 ºC
Rainy days: 7 on average
September is one of the best months to visit León. The heat eases and the city still keeps the lively atmosphere of summer.
This is also when the San Froilán festivities take place, with traditions, folklore and gastronomy that attract visitors from all over Spain.
October
Average temperature: lows of 7 ºC / highs of 18 ºC
Rainy days: 10 on average
Autumn arrives in León with a beautiful display of colours in its parks and in the nearby forests. Temperatures drop, although sunny days are still frequent.
It’s a great month to enjoy hiking routes and seasonal gastronomy, such as wild mushrooms and game dishes.
November
Average temperature: lows of 3 ºC / highs of 11 ºC
Rainy days: 9 on average
November is already a cold month, with shorter days and frequent frosts. The city takes on a quieter atmosphere, perfect for travellers who enjoy cultural tourism without crowds.
It’s a good time to visit museums, explore the many churches and take shelter in tapas bars, enjoying the warmth of León’s food scene.
December
Average temperature: lows of 0 ºC / highs of 8 ºC
Rainy days: 9 on average
December is a truly winter month, with chances of snow and frost. However, the city dresses up with Christmas lights and markets, adding extra charm to any visit.
A walk along Calle Ancha lit up for the festive season, followed by dinner in the Barrio Húmedo, becomes a magical experience at this time of year.
Summary table of León’s climate
| Month | Minimum temperature (ºC) | Maximum temperature (ºC) | Rainy days (average) |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -2 | 8 | 9 |
| February | -1 | 9 | 8 |
| March | 3 | 13 | 9 |
| April | 5 | 16 | 11 |
| May | 8 | 20 | 10 |
| June | 11 | 25 | 8 |
| July | 13 | 29–30 | 5 |
| August | 14 | 30 | 6 |
| September | 11 | 24 | 7 |
| October | 7 | 18 | 10 |
| November | 3 | 11 | 9 |
| December | 0 | 8 | 9 |
Where to stay in León
No matter the time of year, the best way to enjoy your visit is to stay in the city centre. At León Apartamentos you will find modern, bright and well-equipped apartments, with fully fitted kitchens, spacious living areas and private parking. Many of our apartments offer direct views of the Cathedral or the old city walls, turning every stay into a special experience.
By booking directly with us, you get the best price and the personal service of a local team who can advise you on routes, restaurants and activities in León. After a full day exploring the city or the province, there is nothing better than relaxing in a central, cosy apartment designed for your comfort.
