First things first, what is a shoulder season? A shoulder season is the period of time between a region’s peak season and offseason. This season depends very much on where you are in the world. In Spain, the shoulder season is often considered the lull just before the big summer time bang, which is around March, April, May and June. It’s just before the summer season of July and August but it’s after the cooler months of January and February. 

The shoulder season of March – June is a lovely time to travel as it’s warm but not too hot. The UV rays are shining for a tan but not enough to burn you and the humidity is just low enough to manage a nice walk around the town or city you’re visiting. Sometimes it can be tricky to know exactly where to go but luckily for you, Spain-Holiday.com ranked the top Spanish cities to visit in shoulder season, meaning that the job is expertly done, all you have to do is take a glance. 

Go and Visit Valencia

What can you do in Valencia? The better question is ‘What can’t you do in Valencia?’. 

Valencia is based on the east coast of Spain. It is one of the most beautiful cities to visit as it has managed to do something many European cities have not, which is blend the traditional, historical and cultural roots from hundreds of years ago, with the new and modern styles of current times. This is particularly noticeable in their architecture. You can find the old town, filled with cobble streets and massive slabs of cement, both of which are not commonly used today, whilst walking past the Valencia Cathedral, first opened in 1262. At the same time, a stone’s throw away, you can see the futurist shape of the Valencian aquarium at the ‘Palau de les Arts’. 

The shoulder season is excellent for activities around the city, as you’re able to bear the heat, as it’s not too hot or humid yet. This means you can dip in and out of traditional and new buildings and make your way across the city on foot or public transport, without getting a heat stroke or being ambushed by thousands of tourists, as it’s still a slower season. 

In the same vein, there’s also loads to see outdoors. The benefit of the shoulder season is that the weather is still mild but comfortable, making it perfect for a picnic in the famous park called “Jardí del Turia” or spending some time at beaches like “Las Arenas” and “La Malvarrosa”. 

Spend Some Time in Castellon de la Plana

Castellon de la Plana might sound less famous or known than Valencia; however, this does not make it any less appealing. In fact, it should perhaps even make it more appealing as it’s seen as a secret city. 

Located in the east of the Iberian Peninsula, on the Costa del Azahar right by the Mediterranean Sea, this is a geographical gem. Many tourists flood this city during the busy peak season of July and August, which is exactly what makes visiting it in March – June a smart idea. If you really want to avoid the hordes of people, March and April are the best months. 

What can you get up to in Catellon de la Plana, you ask? Well, here is a small checklist for your visit:

  • Catch the energy of the Magdalena Festival in March or April: A nine‑day celebration packed with colourful parades, giant paella pans, fireworks, traditional gaiata light sculptures and live music. Local pride and fiesta vibes are contagious and it’s a great way for you to experience the culture of the city.
  • Stroll through old‑town squares and markets: Walk around Plaza Mayor and Plaza de la Pescadería, drop into town hall arcades, then consider going to the Mercat Central to browse fresh produce, cheeses, tapas stalls and friendly vendor chats. This will also give you a better idea of the local people and how they live and eat.
  • Relax in Ribalta Park: The perfect spot for a peaceful walk, morning jog or weekend picnic. You’ll find shaded paths, ducks, sculptures and locals spending time relaxing and listening to music together.
  • Explore historic landmarks: Climb the 58 m octagonal El Fadrí bell‑tower, visit City Hall’s elegant façade, wander through the medieval Castell Vell ruins – all without the summer crowds.
  • Hit the beaches and waterfront: The best thing about the shoulder season is being able to go to the beach without the masses of people. From Playa del Pinar to Gurugú and Serradal, you can enjoy long sunny walks or early swims as sea temperatures start warming up by June.
  • Get out of the city and take day‑trips and get active: Bike coastal paths, hike Desert de les Palmas park, try boat trips from the harbour or visit nearby caves & hot springs. Again, the only things you can do outside are because the weather isn’t too hot.

Pack Well and Travel Lightly

If you plan on going from city to city, it’s worth packing lightly. You need to pack a few small jackets, as it can get cooler in March and April, especially during the evenings. Make sure you have your sun hat and your sunscreen, as the UV rays are out but not as severely as in July. Other than that, enjoy the peace that comes with traveling in the shoulder season in Spain.