Summer in Spain is one of our favorite times of year: the streets are bustling, the terraces are packed with friends meeting for a caña, and there’s no shortage of great things to do.
If you’re lucky enough to be spending summer in Spain, take a look at our guide below. We’ve rounded up the top things to during June, July and August across six of Spain’s most delicious destinations: Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Malaga, Granada, and San Sebastian. Read on!
Photo Credit: Clarence, Text Overlay: Devour Madrid Food Tours
Summer in Spain: Things to do in Madrid
First up, for those spending summer in Spain’s capital city, we have details on all things Madrid! One of our favorite things to do in Madrid in June is to pay a visit to the book fair in Retiro Park, which has been running for close to 100 years! June is, of course, Pride Month worldwide, and the festivities in Madrid are not to be missed. They usually take place towards the end of the month, going through the first weekend in July.
Madrid’s summer fun kicks into high gear in July and August. During both months, the town puts on Veranos de la Villa, a collection of all kinds of performances, from theater to dance to music, and beyond. Then, in August, the neighborhoods of Embajadores, Lavapiés and La Latina all hold their barrio fiestas. Trust us, they are a sight to be seen!
More on what to do this summer in Madrid:
Things to do in Madrid in June
What to do in Madrid in July
Things to do in Madrid in August
Summer in Spain: Things to do in Barcelona
Spending time in beautiful Barcelona is one of our favorite things to do during summer in Spain. The lively atmosphere in the Mediterranean city can’t be beat!
For those visiting Barcelona in June, one of our top tips is that you head to the beach on June 23 for La Nit de Sant Joan. Expect bonfires, fireworks and a good time. Visitors to Barcelona in July can’t miss the jazz evenings on the rooftop terrace of Gaudí’s La Pedrera. We’re pretty sure it will be unlike any concert you’ve ever experienced. Finally, August in Barcelona is all about the neighborhood block parties! Gràcia turns into a decorated wonderland, and the Sants neighborhood festival is one you shouldn’t miss either!
More on what to do this summer in Barcelona:
Things to do in Barcelona in June
What to do in Barcelona in July
Things to do in Barcelona in August
Summer in Spain: Things to do in Seville
If your summer in Spain takes you to Seville, spending time outdoors is one of our favorite things to do. We prefer to spend the hot afternoon hours in an air-conditioned museum or gathering strength during a siesta, but once the sun goes down, all bets are off!
One of the best outdoor activities are the nighttime concerts held at the Alcázar. We’re sure you were already planning to visit Seville’s Royal Palace anyway—why not do it in the evening, accompanied by live music?
Another can’t-miss experience during summer in Seville is Triana’s lively neighborhood feria honoring the patron saint of the barrio. Step across the bridge to this neighborhood that holds a special place in our hearts and dance the night away!
More on what to do this summer in Seville:
Things to do in Seville in June
What to do in Seville in July
Things to do in Seville in August
Summer in Spain: Things to do in Malaga
Malaga really comes to life during summer! First, in June, enjoy the Moraga de San Juan. It’s the same as the La Nit de Sant Joan in Barcelona, with bonfires and merriment on the beach.
In July, the thing to see is the procession of the Virgen del Carmen, the virgin who protects fisherman. As a historical fishing town, you can imagine that this procession is a big one in Malaga! It’s remarkable to see her taken out on the water in order to bless it, surrounded by smaller fishing boats.
But all summer in Malaga is just the lead up to the main event: the feria in August! Don your dancing shoes and join us for a typical Andalusian fair—it’s something we wait all year long for!
More on what to do this summer in Malaga:
Things to do in Malaga in June
What to do in Malaga in July
Things to do in Malaga in August
Summer in Spain: Things to do in Granada
One of the best places to spend this summer in Spain is Granada!
Music lovers will feel right at home at the International Festival of Music & Dance, which features intimate performances in the Alhambra.
And if you’re looking to beat the heat in Granada, there’s no better way to do so than a nighttime visit to the Alhambra. Enjoy something that most people don’t get to experience and marvel at another side of this Moorish palace.
More on what to do this summer in Granada:
What to do in Granada in July
Things to do in Granada in August
Summer in Spain: Things to do in San Sebastian
If the hot summer temperatures in the rest of Spain are a bit too much for you, head up north to the cooler paradise of the Basque Country.
Our favorite thing to do in San Sebastian in July has to be Jazzaldia, one of the biggest jazz festivals in the world. But it’s the Semana Grande that really shines in San Sebastian during the summer! A week of cultural activities, free concerts and a huge nightly international fireworks competition bring the city to life.
More on what to do this summer in San Sebastian:
What to do in San Sebastian in July
Things to do in San Sebastian in August
