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Planning a trip to Spain in the summer? Get ready for some serious sunshine! Especially in spots like Seville or Madrid, where the heat can go through the roof. Make your Spain packing list ready for the heat!. Toss in those breezy linen shirts, twirly dresses, and your trusty comfy sandals. Keep it light, keep it breathable. Spain’s all about hot vibes, so prep with shorts, tank tops, and all the cool summer gear. But wait, is the climate in the North the same as the south? What about Tenerife or Mallorca, the islands? Let me break it down for you – read about what to pack in Spain for summer!
Regional Climate and Weather in Spain in the Summer
Different parts of Spain have varying climates. The only constant is that Northern Spain is cooler than Southern Spain.
Coastal and Southern Spain
Andalusia (e.g., Seville, Córdoba, Granada):
Temperature: Andalusia experiences scorching temperatures during the summer, often exceeding 40°C (104°F). I don’t think it’s gonna let up this 2024!! The sun beats down intensely, so be sure to prioritize light and breathable clothing.
Clothing Suggestions: Bring clothes that are lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Opt for loose-fitting clothing to stay comfortable in the heat. Bring sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat for the beach to protect you from the intense sun.
Costa del Sol (e.g., Marbella, Málaga):
Temperature: The Costa del Sol sees highs ranging from 35°C to 40°C (95°F to 104°F). If your itinerary includes beach days, ensure you pack a swimsuit, a beach towel, and comfy sandals. In the Costa del Sol, you can expect slightly milder temperatures because of the breezy Mediterranean Sea. Coastal areas generally experience more refreshing breezes, and the overall climate is considered Mediterranean, characterized by hot, dry summers.
Beach Essentials: Consider bringing a beach hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay refreshed under the sun.
Central / Inland Spain
Madrid
Temperature: Madrid sizzles in the summer, with temperatures often surpassing 35°C (95°F). Daytime can be sweltering, so lightweight clothing is key. Evenings, while warm, can have a pleasant breeze.
Northern Spain
San Sebastian (Basque Country):
Temperature: In contrast to the scorching south, San Sebastian enjoys moderate temperatures around 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). The weather can vary, so packing layers is advisable. A light rain jacket might come in handy for unexpected showers.
Weather Variety: Explore the city comfortably with layers that can be added or removed based on the changing weather.
Bilbao (Basque Country):
Temperature: Bilbao shares a similar climate with San Sebastian, with mild temperatures during the summer. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the city’s diverse neighborhoods and attractions.
Footwear: Consider stylish yet comfortable walking shoes suitable for urban exploration.
Mountainous Areas of Spain
Sierra Nevada (Andalusia)
Temperature: The Sierra Nevada offers a cooler retreat from the lowland heat, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F). If your plans involve mountain excursions, pack sturdy yet comfortable hiking shoes and a light jacket.
Outdoor Activities: Embrace the natural beauty with appropriate gear for hiking or outdoor adventures.
Canary Islands (e.g., Tenerife, Gran Canaria):
Tenerife:
Temperature: Pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F).
Hiking Gear: If exploring Mount Teide, include sturdy hiking shoes and a light jacket for varying altitudes.
Beach and Relaxation: Beach attire and sunscreen for leisurely days on the coast.
Gran Canaria:
Temperature: Similar to Tenerife, with mild and pleasant weather.
Cultural Exploration: Comfortable clothing for exploring historical sites like Vegueta’s old town in Las Palmas.
Balearic Islands (e.g., Mallorca, Ibiza):
Mallorca:
Temperature: Warm summers with highs around 30°C (86°F).
Beachwear: If your itinerary involves beach-hopping, ensure you pack stylish swimwear and beach cover-ups.
Exploration: Comfortable walking shoes for exploring historic sites like Palma Cathedral.
Ibiza:
Temperature: Similar to Mallorca, with warm summer temperatures.
Nightlife Attire: Pack trendy outfits for Ibiza’s famous nightlife. Consider light layers for breezy evenings.
| Region | Cities | General Climate | Temperature Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Andalusia | Seville, Córdoba, Granada, Malaga, Almería | Hot and dry, especially inland | High temperatures often exceeding 35°C (95°F) with minimal rainfall. Expect scorching summer heat. |
| Costa del Sol | Marbella, Malaga, Torremolinos, Fuengirola | Mediterranean, moderated by the sea | Warm and pleasant temperatures, ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with refreshing sea breezes. |
| Central Regions | Madrid, Toledo, Salamanca | Hot and dry | High temperatures, often exceeding 30°C (86°F), with low humidity and limited rainfall. |
| North San Sebastian | San Sebastian, Pamplona, Santander | Oceanic climate | Moderate temperatures around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) with occasional rainfall. Cooler than inland areas. |
| North Bilbao | Bilbao, Vitoria-Gasteiz, Logroño | Oceanic climate | Similar to San Sebastian, with moderate temperatures around 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) and occasional rainfall. |
| Mountainous Areas | Sierra Nevada, Cazorla, Ronda | Varied | Temperature can vary with altitude, but generally cooler than lowland areas. Prepare for temperature drops in the evening. |
| Balearic Islands | Mallorca, Ibiza, Menorca | Mediterranean | Warm temperatures around 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) with plenty of sunshine. Occasional brief showers. |
| Canary Islands | Tenerife, Gran Canaria, Lanzarote | Subtropical | Pleasant temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). Generally mild and stable climate with ocean influence. |
Psst… wondering what to wear in Spain in September, or winter months? Read my other blog post for all seasons:
Ultimate Packing List for Spain in Summer
Ultimate Spain Packing List for Men
- Lightweight T-shirts: Short-sleeved and breathable fabrics. Beat the summer heat with cotton or moisture-wicking options that not only keep you stylish but also offer breathability, versatility, and quick-drying comfort.
- Polo shirts: Versatile for both casual and slightly dressier occasions. Collared polo shirts in light colors provide casual elegance, comfort, and sun protection, making them suitable for a range of settings.
- Linen or cotton button-up shirts: Ideal for evenings and more formal outings. Elevate your look with lightweight linen or cotton button-up shirts in neutral tones, offering elegance, breathability, and versatile styling options.
- Shorts: Comfortable and cool for the daytime. Chino shorts, cargo shorts, denim shorts would be perfect. If you’re American, stay away from board shorts or long basketball shorts. They’re very American! Yes, you can wear shorts in churches in Spain.
- Lightweight chinos or comfortable trousers: Perfect for dinners or cooler evenings. Transition seamlessly from day to night with breathable chinos or linen trousers, balancing style, comfort, and versatility.
- Swimwear: If your plans include beach destinations or poolside relaxation. Stay beach-ready with swim trunks or stylish one-piece swimsuits, providing quick-drying functionality and a fashionable beach look.
- Underwear and socks: Enough for the duration of your trip. Prioritize comfort and hygiene with lightweight, moisture-wicking underwear and socks, ensuring freshness throughout your journey.
- Light jacket or hoodie: Useful for cooler evenings or air-conditioned spaces. Be prepared for temperature fluctuations with a lightweight jacket or hoodie, offering versatility, temperature control, and protection against unexpected weather.
- Comfortable walking shoes: Especially important for exploring cities and attractions. Opt for breathable sneakers or comfortable walking shoes to support long walks, provide breathability, and maintain style for various activities.
- Sandals or flip-flops: Perfect for beach outings. Embrace beach-ready footwear with comfortable and sturdy sandals or flip-flops, offering convenience, ease, and breathability for hot weather. SPanish people, generally do not walk wear flip-flops even to the supermarket, even in casual Barcelona, and unless you’re close to the beach.
Accessories:
- Sunglasses: Bring a pair of sunnies to protect you from UV rays. My 80-year-old dad obsessed about always wearing shades, and his eyes are in fantastic shape now.
- Sunhat or cap: Shield yourself from the intense summer sunlight. If you wear one of those big brimmed hats, wear it only at the beach. Only tourists wear them in the city!
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated on-the-go, especially crucial in the heat, with a convenient and eco-friendly reusable water bottle.
- Travel umbrella (optional): Be prepared for unexpected showers with a compact and handy travel umbrella.
- Backpack or day pack: Make day trips and carrying essentials a breeze with a practical and stylish backpack or daypack.
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen: Prioritize your skin’s health with high SPF sunscreen for those times you’re on the sand or even sitting on a Spanish cafe al fresco
- After-sun lotion: Soothe and hydrate sun-exposed skin with after-sun lotion, a must for post-sun care.
- Toiletry bag with essentials: Pack your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and more in a compact toiletry bag for convenience.
- Insect repellent: Guard against unwanted pests, especially in rural areas. I noticed some years, there are more mosquitoes than other years. Not sure why that is…
What to Pack for Summer in Spain: Women
Clothing:
- Sundresses or skirts: Stay comfortable and stylish during daytime activities with lightweight sundresses or skirts.
- Tops and blouses: Opt for breathable fabrics suitable for various occasions, ensuring both comfort and style.
- Maxi dresses: Embrace style that transitions seamlessly from day to night with elegant and comfortable maxi dresses.
- Shorts and capris: Keep it casual and practical with shorts and capris, perfect for warm-weather exploration.
- Swimsuits: If beaches or pools are on your itinerary, pack stylish and comfortable swimsuits.
- Lightweight cardigan or shawl: Prepare for cooler evenings with a fashionable and lightweight cardigan or shawl just in case. In Barcelona, it is rare to wear another layer in the summer. Spain is hot at night!
- Comfortable walking shoes: Explore in style and comfort with chic sneakers or sandals designed for long walks.
- Comfortable flats: Strike a balance between comfort and style with versatile flats, suitable for various occasions.
- Dressy shoes (optional): Bring some if you’re going to a fancy restaurant. You can wear heels in Spain. But most women wear comfortable heels or NO heels. We do too much walking!
- Underwear: You’ll need to pack enough for the duration of your trip
- Socks: light, breathable socks, maybe ankle socks to stay cool
- Hat or sun visor: Protect yourself from the sun while staying fashion-forward with a hat or sun visor.
Accessories:
- Sunglasses: Combine fashion with UV protection by choosing stylish sunglasses that shield your eyes.
- Sunhat: Elevate your style with a chic sunhat that not only complements your outfit but also provides essential shade.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your travels with a reusable water bottle, combining practicality with eco-friendliness.
- Crossbody bag or backpack: Make sightseeing and day trips convenient with a crossbody bag or backpack that combines style and functionality.
- Lightweight scarf: Add a touch of style and cover your shoulders when needed with a versatile and lightweight scarf.
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen: Guard your skin against sun damage by including essential high-SPF sunscreen in your packing list.
- After-sun lotion: Ensure your skin stays moisturized and soothed after sun exposure with after-sun lotion.
- Toiletry bag with essentials: Organize your toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, conditioner, and more in a compact and efficient toiletry bag.
- Insect repellent: Stay protected, especially in rural areas, by including effective insect repellent in your toiletries.
Electronics:
- Travel adapter: Keep your devices charged and ready for use with a travel adapter designed for versatility.
- Camera or smartphone: Of course you wouldn’t forget this…it’s impossible!!
- Portable charger: Stay connected on-the-go by ensuring your devices remain powered with a portable charger.