When I was living in Madrid, I didn’t know how uncomfortable the Madrid summer heat could be. I remember SGDF and I went to 3 different stores desperately looking for a fan and retreating to other cities on the weekends.

Our wedding is in Spain during the summer and we have been hearing people say, “Let’s go visit Madrid…Sevilla…Granada.” I’m sure Spaniards would cringe at that idea. We don’t want our family and friends to have a bad first impression of Spain so we wanted to provide some recommendations based on our past trips and research (we are sure there are many more!). Before we dive in, here are some general items below.

• Temperature: July to August are prime summer months in Spain and certain areas can be sizzling (i.e., over 40C or 100F), particularly the inland territories in the South of Spain (e.g., Sevilla, Granada) or the big plateau in Central Spain.
• Deserted Cities: In late July and August, many of the locals in the big “land-locked” cities will leave for the coastal towns so those cities can seem empty. Pros (easier to get around the city) and cons (summer heat).
• Summer Deals: For the shopalcoholics, there are usually sales (known as rebajas) starting in July. For those non-EU travelers, you can benefit from VAT refunds (though make sure you have an extra hour at the airport to submit the refund) so bring that empty suitcase with you!

Balearic Islands

• Ibiza: I have never been to Ibiza but when I think of this island, I think of extravagant parties, big name DJs, and crowds of 20-30 year olds partying all day and night. Friends have told me it’s like Barcelona’s nightlife on steroids and to expect to pay an arm and a leg for everything, including cover.
• Mallorca: The biggest island out of the Balearic Islands and home to the capital, Palma. I’ve heard this island is beautiful and the perfect vacation island known for the resorts and nature. You can still find aspects of the Ibiza-DJ-Party culture, but it’s less prevalent.
• Menorca: If you want to take another notch down from Mallorca, then head to Menorca. I was in awe of the photos, endless beaches, and “calas” (the rocky, turquoise-watered bays).

• Formentera: Only recently did I learn about this island when I was asking SGDF for recommendations for this post. A friend of ours recently went and loved it, they rented a boat and sailed around. After doing some research, it seems like the perfect place to escape from everything and do nothing. This quiet island is the opposite of Ibiza and the beaches look serene and less crowded.

 

Northern Spain: There are so many things to do in Northern Spain like hiking, exploring many of the regions, visiting the national parks, but here are some highlights below.

• San Sebastian: My mouth waters when I think of all the amazing Basque food and Michelin star restaurants in San Sebastian. This has long been on my list of go-to places because of the food, beaches surrounded by mountains, and architecture. This is one of the wealthiest cities in Spain so you can find upscale shopping and admire all the luxury homes.

• Santander: Another popular spot for its lively food and bar scene. This place is also great for shopping and escaping to the beach.
• Oviedo: Located on the coastline of the Costa Verde, this city is known for its natural landscapes, food, and chigres (cider bars).
• Galicia Region: This region is known for the nature and greenery, seafood (especially octopus), and beaches. A few select cities that we would want to go to are Santiago de Compostela and A Coruña.

Eastern Spain

• Valencia: I love Valencia because of the food (paella and horchata originated in the Valencian region), architecture, location (so close to some amazing beaches), and ambiance (it’s the 3rd largest cities in Spain but feels less hectic compared to Madrid or Barcelona). I’ve always wanted to attend La Tomatina that takes places in Buñol on the last Wednesday of August. This is basically a giant tomato fight, purely for entertainment purposes (originally was an act of political protest).

  

• Benicassim: I’ve been in Benicassim during all four seasons and remember it always being nice. I wouldn’t swim in the ocean in December, but SGDF and I would go rollerblading by the beach or play tennis then. This beach town is an hour north of Valencia and is pretty quiet during the non-summer months. With that said, I love it because the beaches are so serene and clean. Expect bigger crowds during the summer, especially in mid-July during the Fib Music Festival (think of a cheaper version of Coachella). 

• Peniscola: This is a gorgeous beach town 45 minutes north of Benicassim and a.k.a Meeren (for those Game of Thrones’ fans). SGDF and I visited before GoT and loved the Peniscola Castle (who knew it would be part of Meeren). Just look at the views you get from the castle below.

• Alcossebre: This is a lesser known beach town but home to 4 main beaches called Carregador, El Romà, El Moro and Manyetes (or Tropicana). This would be a great day-trip spot to relax at some unspoiled beaches.

• Morella: A 2-hour drive from Valencia / 1.5 from Castelló, this is a historic town known for its castle (at the top of the hill in the photo below), medieval walls, and churches. If you plan to rent a car, I would recommend taking a day to visit but check the temperatures before planning your trip since it is inland. It was amazing just wandering around the town and I believe it was worth the hike up to the castle to explore the grounds and check out the views.

• Vilafames: Another quaint and historic town near Valencia and Castelló. Similar to Morella, you don’t need to plan ahead before visiting this town. You can explore the old town and walls, castle (also on top of a hill), churches, and beautiful architecture. 

• Barcelona: Not sure if I need to say much about Barcelona or why to go. It might be too popular now as I know the city is trying to limit the number of tourists. With that said, if you go now, then expect the crowds! You can check out some things to do and see here. 

• Costa Brava: Located ~1.5-2 hours northeast of Barcelona, this is a perfect day or weekend trip if you are staying in Barcelona. The beaches and resorts are well-known that make Costa Brava a popular summer destination.

• Tarragona: I have so many fond memories of this town during my study abroad days. I was very fortunate to experience it with a native and loved exploring this beautiful port town. Some of my favorite highlights are the Roman ruins of Tarraco and beaches. Tarragona is also famous for their tradition of building castells (or human towers) every year.

 

Southern Spain

• Cadiz Coastline: SGDF’s relatives recommended visiting the beaches in the area since they are vast and good for wind sports.
• Malaga: Most Spaniards will tell you to avoid most places in the south of Spain during the summer, but I got the A-OK from SGDF on Malaga. I love that this beach town has a vibrant city center, modern beach boardwalk, and shopping area.