Things to Do in Spain in July
July weather, activities, events & insider tips
July Weather in Spain
Is July Right for You?
Advantages
- Perfect beach and pool weather - consistent 30-32°C (86-90°F) with minimal rain (only 4 rainy days average) makes it ideal for coastal activities and water sports
- Extended daylight hours until 9:30pm give you maximum sightseeing time, with golden hour photography opportunities lasting until 8:30pm
- Peak festival season with San Fermín (Running of Bulls) in Pamplona, Valencia's Feria de Julio, and numerous local summer festivals across every region
- Optimal conditions for northern Spain - Basque Country, Asturias, and Galicia have perfect 24-26°C (75-79°F) temperatures while southern regions bake, making it the only time to comfortably explore these cooler regions
Considerations
- Extreme heat in southern regions - Seville and Córdoba regularly hit 40-42°C (104-108°F), making midday sightseeing dangerous and uncomfortable
- Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to shoulder seasons, and major attractions have 2-3 hour wait times
- Local life adapts to heat with siesta closures from 2-5pm, limiting shopping and dining options during hottest hours when tourists most need indoor refuge
Best Activities in July
Northern Coast Beach Towns and Surfing
July is the only month when Spain's northern Atlantic coast reaches comfortable swimming temperatures of 20-22°C (68-72°F). San Sebastián, Santander, and coastal Asturias offer perfect 25°C (77°F) weather while southern Spain bakes. This is peak season for Basque beach culture, with locals finally emerging for coastal activities.
Early Morning Alhambra and Andalusian Monuments
Beat the 40°C+ (104°F+) heat by booking first-entry slots at 8:30am when temperatures are manageable at 26°C (79°F). By 11am, temperatures become dangerous for extended outdoor sightseeing. July's extended daylight means excellent early morning photography without crowds.
White Villages Air-Conditioned Bus Tours
Andalusian pueblos blancos are stunning in July's intense light, but only manageable via air-conditioned transport with brief stops. The contrast of white buildings against deep blue skies is spectacular, but walking tours are impossible in 38-40°C (100-104°F) heat.
Barcelona Gothic Quarter Evening Food Tours
Barcelona's narrow Gothic streets stay relatively cool, and July evenings extend until 9:30pm sunset, perfect for extended food walking tours. This is peak season for outdoor dining and street life, with restaurants serving until midnight and beyond.
Balearic Islands Boat Trips and Water Sports
July offers perfect conditions for island hopping with calm seas, 26°C (79°F) water temperatures, and 14+ hours of daylight. Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza have ideal weather for sailing, snorkeling, and beach clubs, with minimal rainfall risk.
Madrid Museum Marathon with Indoor Climate Control
July's heat makes Madrid's world-class air-conditioned museums perfect refuges during dangerous 38-40°C (100-104°F) afternoon temperatures. Extended museum hours until 8-9pm allow you to skip outdoor sightseeing during peak heat while maximizing cultural experiences.
July Events & Festivals
San Fermín Festival (Running of Bulls)
Pamplona's world-famous festival runs July 6-14, 2025. The daily bull runs at 8am, followed by bullfights, street parties, and 24-hour festivities. This is Spain's most internationally recognized festival, transforming the entire city into a non-stop celebration.
Feria de Julio Valencia
Valencia's month-long summer festival features nightly concerts, traditional paella competitions, fireworks over the City of Arts and Sciences, and beach parties. The festival combines modern events with traditional Valencian culture.
Festival Internacional de Benicàssim (FIB)
One of Europe's premier music festivals, typically held mid-to-late July on Valencia's coast. Features major international artists across multiple stages with camping and beach access. The festival runs from afternoon until dawn to avoid peak heat.