Spring is the best time to visit Aranjuez. From April through early June the gardens are at their finest — the trees in full leaf, the fountains running, the strawberries in season, and the air still fresh before the Castilian summer heat sets in. The Strawberry Train runs on weekend mornings in May and June, adding a further incentive for a spring visit.
Summer (July–August) is hot and dry in this part of the Tagus valley — temperatures regularly exceed 35°C. The gardens provide shade, but walking the full extent of the Jardín del Príncipe in August requires planning around the cooler morning hours. Autumn (September–October) is pleasant and less crowded, and the September feria includes bullfights in the historic plaza.
The town is always busy on spring and autumn weekends when Madrileños escape the city. If you want the gardens to yourself, arrive early on a weekday morning.