Summer in Spain

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Looking to spend your summer in Spain? You’re in an awesome time! Summer in Spain is lively, exciting, and tons of fun.

While Spain’s usual historical and cultural charms are on display at all times of the year, you’ll get to experience a different side of the country in the warm summer months. As the temperature heats up, so does Spain!

Magnificent beaches, vibrant nightlife, beautiful nature, and bustling city life — summer in Spain is simply amazing. Here’s what you need to know about traveling to Spain during the summer months.

Table of Contents

Why Visit Spain in Summer

I love visiting Spain any time of the year but Spain definitely comes alive in the summer.

Spain’s Mediterranean climate guarantees a warm summer, making it the ideal destination to catch some sun. And thousands of beaches in various areas of the country, you’ll have a hard time choosing one for your beach holiday.

The warm weather in Spain in summer is ideal for outdoor activities be it hiking, cycling, or water sports — and there’s lots to it on offer!

Spanish cities also have a host of events and activities that run during the summer season. There are summer festivals (read on below for more on these!), concerts, performances, pop-up events and more to keep you occupied during your trip.

If you love to party, Spain’s nightlife offers something for everyone where it’s beach clubs along the coast, high-end nightclubs in Ibiza, live music venues and more.

Last but not least, Spain offers amazing value for travelers. Compared to other European summer destinations, it’s more affordable and you can get more bang for your buck.

Summer in Spain: Weather & Temperatures

Let there be no doubt about it: summer in Spain is H-O-T. Generally speaking, you can expect a daily average temperature of around 30°C with a low of 18°C. Temperatures will vary depending on the month as well as the region you’re in (it’s warmer in the south and along the coast).

Here’s a brief overview of the weather in Spain during summer, month by month.

Weather in Spain in June

Average high temperature: 26°C (79°F)
Average low temperature: 17°C (63°F)

The weather in Spain in June is quite pleasant. Put away those rainjackets because you’re basically good weather in this month. While the days are usually warm, it does cool off in the evenings so it’s best to have a light jacket or sweater on you as the sun sets.

In June, it’s hot enough to enjoy days at the beach without getting too uncomfortable. This is also a good time to visit Andalucia before it gets too hot!

Click here for more on Spain in June.

Weather in Spain in August

Average high temperature: 31°C (88°F)
Average low temperature: 21°C (70°F)

You can expect the hottest temperatures in Spain in August with highs of 31°C (88°F) and lows of 21°C (70°F). These temps can soar even higher in the interior areas so if heat is your nemesis, it’s not the best time to visit cities like Madrid, Seville, or Andalucia.

If you’re in search of more comfortable weather in August, head to the north of Spain which typically has milder weather.

Click here for more on Spain in August.

Weather in Spain in July

Average high temperature: 29°C (84°F)
Average low temperature: 20°C (68°F)

As summer rolls on, temperatures get higher. July is often peak summer tourist season, especially along the coast and in the islands. You’ll get lots of warm, sunny days which are perfect for lazing on the beach and enjoying the outdoors.

Things especially start heating up in the interior of Andalucia so be warned that cities like Seville and Granada will be much warmer than the coast.

Click here for more on Spain in July.

Weather in Spain in September

Average high temperature: 27°C (81°F)
Average low temperature: 19°C (66°F)

Temperatures start going down in September as we wave a slow goodbye to summer season. After a brutally hot August, traveling to Andalucia and inland Spain is more comfortable in September.

Typically, the summer crowd also thins out, making September a good time to visit with good weather but without the hordes of fellow tourists. Personally, this is one of my favorite times to visit Spain!

Click here for more on Spain in September.

The Best of Spain’s Summer Destinations

There are many alluring destinations in Spain. If you need some ideas of the best places to go for a summer holiday, check out these recommendations. You may also be interested in our list of the best beach towns in Spain.

Barcelona – For a City Break That Has It All

You can’t go wrong with a visit to Barcelona any time of the year but the city takes on an even more lively and exciting vibe during the summer months. This is a summer destination that has it all.

For some sun and sand, head to Barcelona’s urban beaches like Barceloneta and Nova Icaria. Or you can stay cool indoors in a museum (I highly recommend the Picasso museum) or one of Gaudi’s unique buildings. Foodies will enjoy the wide range of food and amazing restaurants in the city.

Plus, there are also summer festivals in the city. Notable ones are the Barcelona Beach Festival which is basically a giant beach party with music, food, and fun activities and La Mercè, the city’s main festival that features Cataln traditions as well as street performances, parades, food, and more.

Majorca – For an Island Getaway

Spain’s Balearic Islands are a summer hotspot and Majorca is a favorite for many travelers looking for an island escape.

As the largest of the Balearic Islands, there is a lot to do in Majorca. Of course, its stunning beaches and coves are a highlight and many who come in the summer come solely to soak in the sun (nothing wrong with that!).

But beyond the turquoise waters, you also explore inland. You can find scenic trails in the island’s mountain range, Serra de Tramuntana. The island is also home to a few vineyards that are worth visiting. For culture vultures, don’t miss the historic capital Palma and the medieval churches and ancients ruins on the island.

If music festivals are your thing, Majorca also hosts two festivals in the summer, Festival de la Guitarra and Festival de Música de Palma, which are worth checking out.

San Sebastian – For Surfing & Good Food

For milder weather in the summer, look to the north of Spain. San Sebastian, a coastal city in the Basque country, is a great place to visit.

Foodies can’t miss this city! The food scene here is a mix of traditional Basque dishes and creative takes on old favorites. There are even a few Michelin-starred restaurants here that will wow your palate.

San Sebastian also attracts surfers, thanks to its beautiful long beaches and favorable surf. It may not be as warm here as it is on the southern coast but you can definitely still enjoy a beach holiday here in the summer!

On the festival front, the well-known the San Sebastián International Film Festival takes places in the summer and draws big-name actors and directors. There’s also the city’s famous Jazz Festival.

The Spanish Coast – For Beach-Lovers

Calling all beach-lovers! The southern coast of Spain should definitely be on your list of summer destinations.

The Spanish Coast is split into Costa Blanca, Costa del Sol, and Costa de la Laz… but no matter which part of the coast you’re in, you’l be able to find some amazingly beautiful beaches. Warm turquoise waters will tempt you to swim, wade, and have fun.

Here are recommendations for the best beaches:

This area is a major hotspot in the summer so if you’re set on a Spanish beach holiday, be sure to plan in advance!

Tenerife – For Nature-Lovers

If you’re looking to enjoy the sun and bask in nature but want something a bit more low-key, then Tenerife may be the summer destination for you.

While the south of Tenerife tends to attract more beach-goers, you can head to other parts of the island and escape into nature. Tenerife is interesting to explore due to the various micro-climates in different parts of the island. A visit to the Teide volcano is a must-do and while you’re there, you can also hike in the national park.

Further north there’s also the rural park Anaga which has many scenic trails and routes for an amazing day outdoors.

Want to be on the water? Aside from water sports like snorkeling, diving, and windsurfing, you can also hop on a whale/dolphin-watching boat tour. It’s also a great opportunity to appreciate Tenerife’s dramatic coastline from the sea!

What To Do in Spain in Summer

Long daylight hours and warm sunny weather mean that there are so many activities that you can do in Spain in the summer — it all depends on what type of travel you enjoy. Here are a few ideas on how to get the most out of a Spanish summer holiday.

Explore the beautiful beaches along the Spanish Coast

Spain’s famed coastline is said to be home to over 3,000 beaches and even during the busy summer season, with a little bit of effort, you’ll be able to find some quiet coves and peaceful beaches for that relaxing getaway.

But if you prefer activity, nightlife, and a bustling atmosphere, you can find that too! Popular summer destinations like Malaga, Marbella, and Nerja are typically filled with locals and travelers looking for a good time on those long summer nights.

Tip: Renting a car will give you the freedom to explore the coast and venture to the hidden gems that remain natural and unspoiled. And with so many beaches close to each other, it’s easy to beach-hop!

Car Rental Recommendation

If you’re looking for the best prices for car rental during your stay in Spain, check out Discover Cars. Just plug in your location and dates and you’ll get the best deals available. Super convenient and easy!

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Enjoy Island Life on the Balearic Islands

Consisting of Majorca, Menorca, Ibiza, and Formentera, Spain’s Balearic Islands are simply perfect during the summer.

While you’re sure to find gorgeous beaches at all of them, each island has its own charm:

Majorca, the largest, draws the most visitors. Its historic center Palma is great for history and culture lovers and beyond the beaches, there’s hiking, vineyards, other outdoor activities you can do.
Menorca is Majorca’s more quiet little sister. If you’re seeking a more authentic experience, this is the island for you as it’s less visited. Expect lovely fishing villages, peaceful countryside, and rich cultura heritage.
Ibiza attracts mostly the young and hip with its party vibes, thanks to its world-famous nightclubs and beach parties. This is the place to bei if you’re raring to party, dance, drink, and have a memorable summer.
The small island of Formentera has a laid-back vibe. Aside from its beautiful beaches, you can take scenic walks and explore the island’s natural beauty (it’s a protected natural park).

Whether you’re looking to party, relax, retreat to nature… or all of the above, you can’t go wrong spending your summer holidays on the Balearic Islands.

Learn more about the Baleares in our guide to the best Spanish holiday islands.

Take a Road Trip Around Spain

Nothing says summer more than a road trip! While Spain has an excellent train and bus system connecting the different parts of the country, the freedom of having your own wheels can’t be beaten.

And there are many road trip options available! Maybe you decide to have a base and simply take day trips to discover little towns nearby. Or you can choose an area of Spain and hop around the worthwhile sites.

On the road, you’ll discover Spain’s diversity and see more sides of this fascinating country!

Summer Festivals in Spain

Festivals in Spain are an awesome way to experience the country’s rich culture and traditions. There are numerous festivals in Spain in summer but here are some notable ones. If you’re planning a summer in Spain, you may want to consider going to one of these!

Sant Joan (June)

Celebrate the summer solstice Catalunyan style at the Sant Joan Festival. Typically held on 23 June, this summer festval happens mainly in Barcelona but you may find some celebrations in the rest of Catalunya as well.

Join locals and bring in the summer with song and dance in street parties. Expect crowded streets and a lively atmosphere, as well as local food and drink stalls. If you dare, join the local tradition of jumping over bonfires as a symbol of purification.

As the sun sets, look up the skies and take in the beautiful display of fireworks. This unique and vibrant celebration of summer is free and should not be missed if you’re in Spain in June.

San Fermín Festival (July)

You’ll find one of the most well-known festivals in Spain happening from 6 to 14 July: Pamplona’s Running of the Bulls.

This week-long festival is full of tradition and street parties and attracts thousands to this small town in the Basque country. Enjoy live music, traditional food and drinks, and lots of partying.

The highlight of the event is undoubtedly the Running of the Bulls where participants run through the cobblestone streets of Pamplona with bulls. Whether you’re brave enough to participate or just want to watch the spectacle, this is definitely a uniquely Spanish experience!

If you’re down for this festival, it’s a good idea to secure your accommodations in advance as it’s highly popular.

Festival Internacional de Benicàssim (July)

Music lovers, this summer festival in Spain is for you! Held annually in late July, Festival Internacional de Benicàssim takes place in the town of the same name and it features a mix of Spanish and international musicians.

You can expect a diverse line-up spanning different genres like pop, rock, and electronica. Like any good music festival, this one has a festive atmosphere with food and drinks, art installations, fashion and art. For the ful festival experience, you can opt for glamping on the festival grounds.

Check out the official website for more details on the event and to buy tickets.

La Tomatina (August)

If a big ol’ food fight is your kinda thing, then don’t miss La Tomatina in Buñol, Valencia. This annual festival is basically a major food fight in the streets of this charming town. Your weapons? Tomatoes.

What began as just a town’s traditional has blossomed into an internationally-known festival where participants simply chuck tomatoes at each other. The food fight lasts for one hour and this is your chance to indulge your inner 5-year-old. It’s messy, chaotic, and a ton of fun… and like nothing else you can experience!

Aside from the food fight, the town takes on a lively atmosphere during this time. You can enjoy dance shows, parades, concerts and a lot of entertainment.

There are companies that offer package deals to attend La Tomatina and they could be a good deal, depending on where you’re coming from. You can also DIY the trip to Buñol and simply buy a ticket to participate in the food fight.

Feria de Agosto (August)

For a dose of Spanish traditions and culture, head to Malaga for La Feria de Agosto. Typically held in mid-August, this is a major event in the city that’s enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

During the daytime, the party vibe can be found in the city center. Here you’ll find loads of activities and events ranging from flamenco performances, live music, horse riding, traditional costumes, Andalusian games and more. You can also eat and drink to your heart’s content — be sure to try the local specialties on offer.

At night, the party shifts to a fairground that’s about 20 minutes away. More food, drinks, fun, and dancing await you until the late hours. To get to the fairground, shuttle buses are available from the Malaga city center.

This summer festival offers an authentic look at Spanish culture and it’s an awesome way to learn more about the country while having a ton of fun.

enjoy beautiful beaches in summer in spain

FAQs About Spain in Summer

Still got questions about summer in Spain? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions.

What are summer months in Spain?

The summer months in Spain are from June to September. In general, you can expect daily temperatures of around 30°C throughout Spain. It does get much warmer in the south and along the coast whereas the temperature is more bearable inland and towards the north.

It’s a good idea to check the weather forecast for the specific area you’re travelling to.

Is July a good time to visit Spain?

This is the height of the summer season and if you’re looking for a fun summer holiday, July is a good time to visit Spain. You’ll find a lively atmosphere no matter where in Spain you go and there’ll be loads to do thanks to the long, warm, sunny days.

That said, if crowds aren’t your thing, you may want to avoid visiting Spain in July as it’s peak tourist season especially in the beaches. You may also find that accommodation prices will peak during this time.

What is the hottest month in Spain?

The hottest month in Spain is usually August, with average temperatures ranging from 25°C (77°F) to 33°C (91°F) in the coastal regions and from 20°C (68°F) to 28°C (82°F) inland. This is the peak of summer in Spain.

That said, the temperature can vary depending on which part of Spain you’re in.

The south of Spain and the Spanish coast are typically warmer. In fact, it can get sweltering hot in Andalucia! It’s not uncommon for temperatures to exceed 40°C (104°F) in some areas in the south. In contrast, in the north of Spain, you can expect daily temperatures with a high of 27°C (81°F) and a low of 20°C (68°F).

Is Spain too hot in summer?

Spain’s location in the south of Europe means that it does get pretty hot in summer. This is especially true for the Andalucian region which is typically the warmest part of the country. So, if you can’t tolerate hot weather, it’s best to avoid Andalucia during this time.

Summer weather is perfect for a beach holiday on the Spanish coast or if you’d like to explore the north of Spain which has milder temperatures during this season.

Regardless, it’s a good idea to be sure that any accommodation you book has air-conditioning!

How is Spain in summer?

In the summer, Spain is bustling with tourists who seek to enjoy the warm temperatures and long daylight hours. The islands and beaches of Spain are most crowded in summer… which is no surprise!

Across the country, the mood is light and lively with lots of activities and events. You can find many summer festivals, cultural events, and outdoor activities. Nightlife is also especially active during this time.

The summer months in Spain are definitely a wonderful time to experience this country and its people!