Madrid Weather in July

July heat in Madrid

July is hot, dry and bright. Afternoons can feel punishing, especially on the open streets around Plaza Mayor. The high reaches 35°C, while evenings are much cooler, with lows near 18°C. Rain is rare, so you're unlikely to lose a day to showers.

Save walks through Retiro Park or along Gran Vía for the morning or evening. When the sun is strongest, spend time inside the Prado or Reina Sofía. Skip long midday walks between sights; the heat can make even short distances tiring. The shade in Retiro helps, but it won't make an afternoon stroll feel cool.

Events and quieter streets

Veranos de la Villa brings concerts, theatre and other performances to venues across Madrid during summer. It's a good way to enjoy the city after sunset. July is also when many Madrileños leave for their holidays, so some local shops and restaurants may close.

If you hate crowds, you may find central Madrid calmer than in spring. Hotels and flights can also be better value than during the popular April-to-May and September-to-October periods, though prices vary. Big sights still draw visitors, and popular evening events can fill up.

Make the heat work for you

Travelling with kids? Keep the Prado for the hottest part of the day, then head to Retiro when the air cools.

A simple local rhythm works well: explore one central area in the morning, take a long indoor break, then return outside for dinner. In La Latina, you can settle in for tapas once the streets are more comfortable. Madrid's long summer daylight gives you time to enjoy the evening without rushing. If you're keen on a day trip, remember that Granada is also very hot in July; coastal Málaga has better weather according to the data.