Spain in July can best be summed up in two words: hot and happening. Warm weather throughout the country makes the famous beaches seem more appealing than ever, and as part of peak tourist season, many popular destinations throughout Spain will be packed to the brims.

That being said, there’s a lot to love about visiting Spain in July. The month sees fascinating cultural festivals and events happening throughout the country. Consequently, the soaring temperatures justify including the beach on your travel itinerary. Here’s everything you need to know before heading to Spain in July, from weather specifics to the events you won’t want to miss.

Spain Weather in July

Temperatures are on the high side throughout Spain in July, but can be more or less bearable depending on your location. Down south, Andalusia is famous for its scorching summer temperatures, especially in inland cities such as Seville and Córdoba. Average highs generally soar into the 80s and 90s, with lows in the 60s. The same pattern tends to hold true for central areas like Madrid; however, northern Spain enjoys milder averages in the 70s.

Rain in Spain during the summer is relatively rare, although northern areas can experience the occasional light shower or quick thunderstorm. Sunshine is plentiful, swimming conditions are excellent, and humidity levels are generally low.

What to Pack

If blending in with the locals is your goal, dressing for summer in Spain can be somewhat tricky. You’ll want to prioritize comfort, but what you consider summer clothing staples might seem “not from here” in Spain—such as t-shirts and flip-flops.

The Spanish tend to dress quite fashionably. Therefore, consider packing casual-chic pieces made with light, breathable fabrics that won’t leave you feeling stuffy while exploring. A solid pair of sandals will come in handy; however, keep in mind that locals typically don’t wear flip-flops outside the beach. Additionally, don’t forget sunscreen (which can be pricey in Spain) and a stylish pair of sunglasses for sun protection.

July Events in Spain

Art—both visual and performance—takes center stage during July in Spain. When you’re not sightseeing or soaking up the sun, ensure you add one of these captivating events to your itinerary:

• PHotoESPAÑA (Madrid, June 5–September 1, 2019): Spain’s largest photography exhibition, showcasing works by talented photographers from all over the world.
• Festival de Granada (June 21–July 12, 2019): A world-class performing arts festival featuring grand spectacles at legendary venues like the Alhambra.
• Grec (Barcelona, June 26–August 31, 2019): A colorful festival that combines theater, dance, music, and circus acts all summer long.
• Madrid Orgullo (June 28–July 7, 2019): Spain’s largest gay pride event celebrating love and diversity with a full week of festivities.
• Córdoba Guitar Festival (July 4–13, 2019): A musical celebration featuring performances by top guitarists across all genres, along with classes and workshops.
• Sanfermines (Pamplona, July 6–15, 2019): Celebrated for its iconic bull run, this centuries-old festival also offers street parties, parades, and more. Note that local public opinion is increasingly against bullfighting, and visitors are encouraged to consider the ethics surrounding this tradition.
• Benicassim (July 18–21, 2019): A seaside town in Valencia, home to a renowned music festival featuring artists like Lana Del Rey and the Kings of Leon.
• Heineken Jazzaldia (San Sebastian, July 24–28, 2019): Spain’s oldest jazz festival, featuring performances from icons such as Diana Krall and Joan Baez.

July Travel Tips

• July marks peak season for tourism in Spain. As a result, securing your accommodation early is crucial, because hotels fill up quickly, and prices increase due to high demand.
• Moreover, expect longer lines at popular attractions; thus, opt to purchase tickets for landmarks like the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona and the Alcazar in Seville online in advance to avoid wasting time in queues.
• Finally, keep in mind that while August is the traditional vacation month for Spaniards, some may choose to vacation in July, leading to potential closures of small businesses as owners and employees take a well-deserved break.