Madrid experiences a continental Mediterranean climate with pronounced seasonal shifts and temperature extremes that catch many visitors off guard.

Rainfall is moderate and concentrated in spring and autumn, making a compact umbrella or waterproof layer a year-round essential.

Summer temperatures regularly exceed 35°C, while winter nights can drop below freezing, creating one of Europe's widest urban temperature ranges.

The city's high altitude and distance from the coast mean low humidity and intense sun exposure, even on cooler days.

Madrileños dress for dramatic diurnal swings, layering strategically to shed clothes as the day warms by 15°C or more.