Spain in July: Weather, Where to Go, & Travel Tips (2024)

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Are you planning a trip to Spain and wondering if July is a good time to visit?

With summer in full swing and sunny skies, July is a great time to visit Spain.

The long, hot days, festivals, and pristine beaches are just a few of the reasons travel guides name Spain one of the hottest destinations in Europe in July—something I’ve personally learned from visiting Spain in July many times over the last 20 years!

July is an ideal time to travel to Spain to go to the beach, participate in cultural festivals, or head to a national park, like Ordesa y Monte Perdido, as the high season (and high temps) arrives.

In this July Spain travel guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know about going to Spain in July — July weather in Spain, the best places to go and things to do in Spain in July, Spain’s best July events and festivals, July travel tips, things to pack for July, and more!

Is July a good time to go to Spain?

Yes, July is a good time to visit Spain. Being the height of the summer season, the weather in much of Spain is hot in July — hitting 90°F (32°C) or higher. However, the rainy season is over so you can enjoy fun in the sun.

Despite the heat (or perhaps because of it), there are lots of fun summer activities taking place in July. Endless public festivals, trips to the beach, hiking, watersports, or exploring Spain’s cities — especially those in the milder northern regions — are all exciting activities you can do in July.

High season for Spain means more crowds, but it can also be fun to socialize with both locals and new international friends at all the summer festivals, concerts, and events going on in July.

Spain in July Weather

Being that Spain is a large country characterized by different climates, you can expect some variations in temperature between the northern region, interior, and coasts during the month of July.

On the whole, temperatures in Spain in July are hot, but you can walk around and explore for a few hours, especially in the mornings. Conditions are perfect for swimming and sunbathing, and humidity is relatively low.

The temperature in July in Spain averages range between 70 °F (21) 21 to 25 °C to low 80s °F with relatively low humidity. Chances of rain are rare during July in Spain.

The warmest July weather is in Andalusia, Spain’s southernmost region. For instance, Seville, Córdoba, and Granada see highs in the 90s (32 °C) in the month of July.

Certainly, the northern region will be cooler! Along the Atlantic coast, from San Sebastián to Santander and A Coruña, expect temperatures in the 70s (21°C-26°C) in July and August along with an occasional light shower or thunderstorm.

The Mediterranean coasts are typically slightly cooler than inland Spain as well. The popular Costa Brava weather is about 81°F (27°C) and the Costa del Sol has an average of 77°F (25°C) in summer.

Weather in Barcelona in July

So, how hot is Barcelona in July? On average, the temperature in Barcelona in July is around 84°F (28°C ), but warmer afternoons can easily reach 88°F (31°C ). Expect long days with over 15 hours of sunlight—perfect for sightseeing and sunning during the day before strolling along Las Ramblas and finding a trendy cafe for tapas in the evenings.

Weather in Madrid in July

Madrid is typically hot in July with average temperatures around 77°F (25ºC) and highs near 91°F (33°C). Luckily, there are many indoor activities in Madrid where you can take a break from the heat. Namely, you can visit Madrid’s many art galleries!

Weather in Málaga in July

In lively Málaga, you’ll find an average temperature of 77°F (25°C), making this city a great destination for both exploring the city and sunbathing.

Nearby, on the Costa de Sol, Marbella sees an average of 81°F (27ºC) and 11 hours of sun.

Weather in Mallorca in July

In Mallorca (Majorca), in Spain’s Balearic Islands, you’ll find warm sunny days and 10 hours of sunshine in which you can swim, do watersports, visit a winery, or relax to your heart’s content!

Temperatures in Majorca often reach 91°F (33°C).

Weather in San Sebastián in July

In San Sebastián, located on the northern Atlantic coast, highs average around 70°F (21°C). However, don’t let that fool you! It’s extremely sunny and can be quite humid, making it feel much hotter.

Where to Go in Spain in July

With plenty of sandy beaches, historic cities, summer festivals, and everything in between, Spain is an extremely popular summer destination — try to spend at least seven days in the country to make the most of your summer trip.

While some of the best places to visit in Spain in July with undoubtedly be hot and crowded, several smaller cities are great to visit in summer Spain.

1. Madrid

With cultural and historical things to do, outdoor spaces, and famous nightlife, it’s no wonder the nation’s capital is one of the best places to visit in Spain in July.

During the day, stop by any one of Madrid’s plentiful museums for a day in the air conditioning. From the big three — The Prado, Reina Sofia, and the Thyssen-Bornemisza — to Madrid’s lesser-known museums, there’s truly a museum for every interest and taste!

The city is also full of green spaces that offer respite from the heat, from the tranquil Retiro Park and the wandering paths of Western Park to Madrid Río Park, an urban park along the Manzanares River.

After dark, when the heat starts to subside, Madrid comes alive with an infamous late-night dining and drinks scene. If you’re not sure where to go, join a tapas tour.

2. Pamplona

Pamplona is one of northern Spain’s most iconic destinations. Located in the greater Basque country near the French border, this city is sure to captivate you!

During July, people head to Pamplona from all over the world to celebrate the Sanfermines festival. Although you may be familiar with the festival thanks to its famous bull run, there are lots of parades, concerts, and celebrations taking place throughout the week, making it easy to enjoy one of Spain’s most iconic festivals and cities.

There’s more to Pamplona than the running of the bulls — explore the quiet provincial city and learn about its peculiar history while tasting sublime Spanish food and some of the best wine in Spain.

3. Valencia

Spain’s third-largest city, Valencia is a city with many faces. Getting lost in the vibrant old town that’s full of medieval buildings, exploring the ultra-modern City of the Arts and Sciences, and heading to a nearby beach are all things to do in Valencia in July.

Each July, the Great Valencia Fair hosts a variety of celebrations from concerts, to fireworks, street parties, and more.

Yet with everything going on in Valencia, this Mediterranean city—which sees highs of at least 85°F (29ºC)—never feels hurried.

About an hour north of Valencia, plan to attend the Benicassim music festival (mid-July) in Benicassim, a beachside Valencian town that comes to life in July and August.

4. Barcelona

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe, the streets of Barcelona will be filled with people out enjoying everything the colorful city has to offer!

Be sure to visit the unique architecture of Antoni Gaudí — Park Güell, La Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and La Pedrera-Casa Milà are worth the long lines.

In the early afternoon, before the sun is at its brightest, visit Barcelona’s city beach. Admire the city skyline on a relaxing walk before heading to a nearby cafe for a leisurely lunch.

Day trips from Barcelona are a great way to get out of the heat while exploring greater Catalonia. We highly recommend the hidden beaches of Costa Brava, the famous Catalonian monasteries nearby, or the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres.

5. Bilbao

For a dose of culture (and lower temperatures), consider heading to Bilbao. This Basque town boasts a fascinating local heritage, culture, and language with a lot to learn around every corner.

Here you can explore the Guggenheim Museum, the Old Town, take a sightseeing cruise, or swim in one of the many beaches in the area

In July, get tickets to the BBK Bilbao Live. Taking place in a privileged natural setting on the slopes of Mount Cobetas, the music festival attracts top rock and pop acts from around the world.

Many of the university residence halls open their doors to visitors in the summer, too. This makes Bilbao an affordable base camp for exploring the regions nearby. See the best hostels in Bilbao.

We suggest you head to nearby San Sebastián for a day or two to taste some of the best pintxos (Basque tapas) and cuisine in Spain!

Best Things To Do in Spain in July

Spain in July offers endless travel experiences — from partying on Ibiza and witnessing the running of the bulls to lazy days in the sun and eating tapas to your heart’s content!

Here are some of the top things to do in Spain during the month of July.

1. Enjoy the vibrant Spanish nightlife

In July, Spain is flooded with tourists from all over the world who want to take part in world-renowned Spanish nightlife. The Balearic Islands of Ibiza, Mallorca (Majorca), and Minorca especially come to life during the summer months.

Although you should expect most places to be brimming with tourists, you’ll have many options for parties and festivals. Plus, you can make new international friends.

2. Go to a beach in Spain

For a classic summer holiday, July is the perfect month to hit the beach in Spain! Hot and sunny, with little to no chance for precipitation, you can spend all day soaking up the sun, sitting at beach cafes, and shopping.

Plus with 5,000 mi (8,000 km) of coastline, there’s a beach for just about everyone in Spain —  whether you prefer a resort in the Canary Islands where you can rent an umbrella for the day, a secluded mainland beach, or an excellent surf spot.

Expect 79°F (26°C) on average for beaches in Spain in July with some fluctuations. For example, here are the average temps at some of Spain’s most awesome beach destinations:

• Marbella: 82°F (27°C)
• Mallorca: 79°F (26°C)
• Benidorm: 77°F (25°C)
• San Sebastian: 70°F (21°C)
• Málaga: 77°F (25°C)

3. Do in Watersports in Spain

If you’re interested in adrenaline and adventure, Spain’s coastal towns and islands offer a vast array of water sports: surfing, parasailing, kitesurfing, kayaking, and scuba diving to name a few.

Mallorca is known for its wide array of water activities. Try a Mallorca boat trip for a delightful day on the water, snorkeling and paddleboarding in secluded coves, and drinks and tapas onboard. Or, try your hand at parasailing or scuba in Mallorca.

Really, whatever water activity you’re interested in, they have it in Spain!

4. Get Outdoors in Spain

With sunny conditions and low precipitation, July is a good time to get outdoors (and avoid the crowds on the beach) in Spain.

Mountain biking, ATV tours, rafting, canoeing, and canyoneering are just some of the outdoor experiences available to you in Spain’s rugged natural areas and national parks.

There are also lots of bucketlist-worthy hiking trails to conquer in Spain. The Caminito del Rey, the Picos de Europa, and the Pyrenees are tops!

5. Eat Tapas

Any time of year is a good time to eat tapas in Spain! Nibbling on the “small bites” with friends is one of the best ways to enjoy your summer in Spain.

Either in the late afternoon or evening, find any outdoor cafe that calls your name. Order a few rounds of shareable tapas, a pitcher of sangria, and enjoy!

July is an excellent time to order cold, refreshing tapas.

Gazpacho, salmorejo, and salads are all good choices as are many of the room-temp Basque pintxos.

However, do ask your waiter for recommendations so you can taste house specialties! 

Festivals and Events During July in Spain

July is filled with excellent national and regional festivals taking place in Spain. These parties are what Spain is famous for, and getting to experience at least one of these July festivals is a must!

1. Festival of San Fermín (Running of the Bulls), Pamplona

Each July, Pamplona hosts the Sanfermines festival. Honoring the patron saint of the city who was martyred in the 4th century, the streets of Pamplona come alive with visitors from all over the world.

During the week-long celebration, the calendar is filled with various parties and celebrations in the street, parades, and other festivities. Revelers also don a red scarf and white shirt — which is traditional to Basque culture.

But, the most famous event is the Running of the Bulls. On this day, daredevils run in front of six bulls through the narrow streets of the city!

While you may not want to partake in such a dangerous event, Pamplona is certainly worth a visit for all the other festivities taking place!

2. St. James’ Day, Santiago de Compostela

Celebrated in Santiago de Compostela, the end point of the famous Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, this celebration honors Santiago Apostle (Saint James) — whose remains are said to be interned at the Santiago Cathedral.

The festival, which also coincides with Galicia Day (of which St. James is the patron saint) combines celebrations of all kinds — religious, cultural, fireworks shows, art, and gastronomy, to name a few.

When visiting, be sure to enjoy Galician cuisine such as Albariño wine, seafood, octopus, and Padrón peppers.

3. Moors and Christians, Villajoyosa

Many cities and towns hold Moors and Christians festivals each July, with some of the best in Alicante in the Valencia province. Villajoyosa’s festival is one of the most intricate, attracting international attention.

Going strong for over 250 years, the Villajoyosa Moors & Christians Festival sees thousands of local residents participate in the reenactment of a historic 1538 battle.

Legend says Saint Marta came to aid Villajoyosa in the naval battle in which pirates attempted to occupy the town.

Throughout the festivals, you’ll see stunning costumes, parades, marching bands, and huge firewood displays.

4. Córdoba Guitar Festival

Music plays a huge role in Spanish culture, and you’ll find music festivals all around the country. The annual International Córdoba Guitar Festival brings together talented musicians, flamenco artists, jazz musicians, and dancers from all over the world to celebrate guitar music.

A summer highlight, the Córdoba Guitar Festival holds concerts at different venues all around town including the Grand Theatre, Plaza Capuchinos, and the Congress Palace.

Listen to the best guitar players in every genre imaginable, or take a workshop! The festival holds courses for participants as well.

5. Festival de Granada

If you love theatre, drama, and art, head to the International Festival of Music and Dance of Granada in Andalusia. With origins in the late 1800’s, the festival gave the city its first opportunity to hear live music in the form of orchestral concerts.

Hosted in some of the most beautiful venues of Granada, including the Alhambra, the festival brings together artists, musicians, and dancers from all over the world.

Young artists are also featured in the festival and often go on to become some of the greatest performers of their generation.

Travel Tips for Spain in July

The nice weather, festival calendar, and miles of pristine beaches make July one of the most popular months of the year to visit, meaning it’s the peak season for tourism in Spain.

Here are some tips for visiting Spain in July:

• Dress appropriately — Wear light clothes, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen as summer in Spain is hot and sunny.
• Book accommodation in advance — Book your accommodation as early as possible, as hotels tend to fill up quickly and prices rise.
• Arrange tours in advance: Book tickets, tours, and day trips ahead of time as they tend to sell out during the summer months. Also, you can avoid long lines at attractions like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the Prado Museum in Madrid by booking tickets in advance.
• Attend festivals — Take advantage of one of the many July festivals for a taste of Spanish culture.
• Take a long lunch or siesta — Take a break from the sun during the hottest time of the from 2-4 pm. In the smaller cities, many businesses and shops will close during this time. It’s also a great time for a long lunch under a shady umbrella.

What to pack for Spain in July

Whether blending in with the locals is your goal or not, dressing for summer in Spain can be tricky! Prioritize protecting yourself from the sun and a good pair of shoes, and you’ll do just fine!

Of course, check the temperature in Spain for July before your departure from the United States (or wherever you live!), and adapt your packing list as needed.

Here are some July packing essentials for Spain:

• Lightweight Clothing — Pack lightweight clothing that’s moisture-wicking and/or made from natural fabrics
• Walking Sandals — Get a pair of sandals with a supportive sole that can be dressed up or down for all occasions (Keep in mind that locals don’t usually wear flip-flops beyond the beach.)
• Hat — It will protect you from the sun and keep you cool
• Sunglasses — A cute pair of dark sunglasses will work well 
• Beach Gear — Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit and towel for swimming
• Sunscreen — Pack a bottle of sunscreen to avoid getting burned (and because it’s expensive in Spain)
• Pashmina and/or Lightweight Jacket — Early mornings and late nights may still be a bit chilly so you may want to layer

Spain in July: Frequently Asked Questions

Is Spain expensive in July?

Yes, July can be expensive in Spain as demand drives prices up. Expect peak-season prices for hotels and flights when you travel to Spain in the month of June. For the best availability and rates, book your Spain travel well in advance.

Is July a good time for Spain?

June is a popular time to visit Spain as it’s hot and sunny. If you’re interested in traveling in Spain during the summer, July is an excellent choice since there are a lot of events taking place as well as perfect beach weather.

Is July the best time to visit Spain?

The best time to visit Spain is during the shoulder seasons — Spring (March to May) or Fall (September to November).

How many hours of daylight does Spain get in July?

Parts of Spain get just over 15 hours of daylight in July!

What season is it in Spain in July?

Like the rest of the northern hemisphere, July is part of the summer tourist season in Spain, which typically lasts from June through August.

Is July summer in Spain?

Yes, July is part of summer in Spain as summer runs from June 21-September 20.

How often does it rain in Spain in July?

Spain is generally dry in July. However, you may experience ocassional light showers in the northern part of the country.

Is Spain hot in July?

Spain is hot in July. You can expect an average range between 70 °F (21 °C) to low 80s °F (25 °C). However, the interior of the country can easily push over 90 °F (32 °C).

Is Spain hotter in July or August?

Spain is hotter in August than in July with highs in the 90s °F (32 °C).

Is July too hot to visit Spain?

No, July isn’t too hot to visit Spain. It will be sunny and warm in July, but humidity is relatively low in much of the country.

Is Spain humid in July?

July in Spain has some humidity, but not as high as earlier in the year. Here is the average humidity for some popular destinations in Spain (according to currentresults.com):

• Barcelona 72%
• Mallorca 69%
• Bilbao 72%
• Santiago de Compostela 75%
• Madrid 46%
• Seville 52%
• Málaga 59%

Is Spain sunny in July?

Yes, Spain is relatively sunny in July with a low chance for precipitation.

Is Spain cold in July?

Spain is not cold in July, with the winter and spring having already passed. However, it will be cooler in the northern parts of Spain. For instance, in July, San Sebastian has an average high of 73 °F (22 °C).

Which part of Spain is warmest in July?

Southern Spain has some of the warmest places in Spain in July, with some towns reaching the mid-90s (32 °C).

What should I wear in Spain in July?

Plan to pack lightweight clothing, walking shoes or sandals, a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for Spain in July. 

Is Spain crowded in July?

July is relatively crowded in Spain, especially in the major tourist areas. However, it isn’t as crowded as August in Spain when Spaniards typically take their summer vacation.

Is July high season in Spain?

The high season in Spain is from mid-June to early September, with the brunt of tourists heading to the sunny peninsula in July and August.

Do I need insurance for traveling to Spain in July?

Getting travel insurance is up to you, but we think it’s a must when traveling. You just never know when your flight or luggage will be delayed or if you’ll find yourself injured or ill.

Here are three options for Spain July travel insurance:

• Travel Insurance Master: Insurance aggregator that will show you the best plans available from the top travel insurance providers
• Safetywing: Digital nomad insurance with monthly plans and the cheapest rates online
• World Nomads: Adventure travel insurance (under age 70)

Is visiting Spain in July worth it?

If you ask us, yes! It’s 100% worth visiting Spain in July.

Spain in July weather is definitely hot, but that makes it an excellent time to throw on a sundress, head outdoors, and sip a cold sangria or beer! 

Fortunately, there’s plenty happening in Spain — hitting the beach, outdoor activities, watersports, and festivals, to name a few. 

Do remember to take a break from July Spain weather in the late afternoon — just stay in indoors or under an umbrella in the late afternoon, and you’re ready to make the best of your Spanish summer!

If Spain in July isn’t for you…

After reading this, you might have concluded that visiting Spain in July (or July weather in Spain) isn’t for you. If so, check out these other articles about visiting Spain during other months of the year.

• Spain in the Summer: Everything You Need to Know
• Spain in June
• Spain in August