Is it OK to visit Madrid in August?
The dog days of summer are in full swing, but Madrid still boasts plenty of fun in the sun throughout August. From days spent lazing by the pool with a drink in hand to sultry summer nights taking in a concert at the park, Madrid in August is a must for anyone seeking that idyllic Spanish combo of leisure and sunshine.
Spain weather August
In August, Spain is mainly hot, dry and sunny, with warmer temperatures on the Mediterranean coast and inland, and slightly milder temperatures in the north. August is the high season in Spain, so most resorts are busy at this time of year.
Madrid virtually closes in August, the "Madrileños" escaping from the concrete to Spain's coastal areas and many bars, restaurants and some smaller museums shutting shop for the month. Autumn is a particularly attractive season, bringing golden colours to Madrid's parks.
August represents the apex of Spain's tourist season, and it's also the nation's hottest month. Even if sun and sand are your goals, there are off-the-beaten-path beaches and historic towns that won't be as crowded as hotspots like Barcelona and Ibiza.
Madrid is one of the sunniest cities in Europe and with the arrival of summer, the days are longer to enjoy many plans. Summers can be very hot with an average temperature of around 25ºC in July and August, but a good way of cooling off is to visit the terraces with pools that fill the city's rooftops.
Can you wear shorts in Madrid? Yes, but keep in mind that most locals will only wear them in the summer months. Dressing for the season—rather than the weather—is the way to go in Spain. Even on a warm day in April or October, most madrileños will still opt for long pants.
Avoid sun exposure between 11am and 6pm. The solar noon in Andalucía is deceptively late: about 13.20 hrs in winter and 14.20 hrs in summer.
Visit Barcelona in August if you enjoy the heat and sunshine. It's the hottest month of the year, so expect balmy weather, clear blue skies, and calm seas throughout the duration of your vacation.
many offices and businesses will operate summer hours or even close altogether, depending on their sector. Summer hours are early start/early finish, and it's not unusual to see signs in city centre shops saying “cerrado por vacaciones” (closed for holidays) for the full month.
In August, Madrid is not that humid with an average amount of 35% (relative humidity), which could be described as comfortable. January has the highest relative humidity at 83% and is the least humid in July at 34%.
How to survive Madrid in summer?
Pretend you're a farmer: rise early and rest at mid-day. If there is ever a month to take the Spanish siesta, it's August. Many people who do go to the office this month start work early and get out around 3pm, giving them time to eat lunch, rest and then enjoy the evening hours, when the city finally cools off.
Crowds – It gets crazy busy in Spain this time of year not only because of summer holidays and people traveling a lot but also because most Spaniards have a well-deserved 2-week break from work in August. Expect long queues, heavy traffic, and over-crowded sights, restaurants, streets, public transport…
THE COURTS IN SPAIN CLOSE IN AUGUST BECAUSE OF JUDICIAL VACATIONS. While officials continue working, and there are jurisdictions that consider August a working month; Lawyers will not receive notices.
Average monthly temperatures
If you enjoy hot perfect sunny days the best time to visit Spain is between June and September. The hottest month of the year is July with an average daily maximum of 36 C and an average low of 17 C.
August. Temperatures soar and the city can be eerily quiet as locals flock to the coast or mountains. Many restaurants and other businesses close and some museums have reduced hours.
Traditionally August is the month for Spaniards to go on holiday. In the old days that meant the whole month, nowadays 2-3 weeks.
