How To Survive Seville In Summer

Are you planning to visit Seville in summer, but not sure if you’ll manage with the crazy heat? 

I’m on my fourth summer in the city, and although I know what to expect when the hot months roll in, it’s always a bit of a shock to the system. 

And I get it, that for a lot of people, the intense heat can be unbearable.

Thankfully though, it’s mostly a dry heat in Seville, but temperatures still hover around the high 30s to mid-40s Celsius (that’s about 100 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit to my US readers) which can feel uncomfortable if you’re not prepared or used to such extreme heat.

In this guide, I’ll give you practical tips on how to survive Seville in the summer, including the best ways to stay cool and comfortable in the intense heat so you can make the most of your trip.

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Is Seville Too Hot in Summer?

Some might argue, yes. Seville summers can be brutal, especially if you’re coming from climates where summers are mostly rainy – UK, I’m pointing at you!

Locals often escape the heat by heading to the coast or the mountains, making the city feel like a ghost town in July and August. However, if you can brave the heat, it’s a great time to visit Seville thanks to the lack of crowds.

Seville’s summer temperatures in the day typically range from the late 30s to mid-40s °C (100 – 110 °F). 

The highest temperature ever recorded in Seville was a scorching 47.4°C (117.3°F) on 14 August 2021. Toasty!

Seville Summer Average Temperatures

Here’s a chart showing the average daytime high and nighttime low temperatures in Seville from June to September:

• June:
  • Average Daytime High: 33°C (91°F)
  • Average Nighttime Low: 18°C (64°F)
• July:
  • Average Daytime High: 37°C (99°F)
  • Average Nighttime Low: 21°C (70°F)
• August:
  • Average Daytime High: 37°C (99°F)
  • Average Nighttime Low: 21°C (70°F)
• September:
  • Average Daytime High: 33°C (91°F)
  • Average Nighttime Low: 19°C (66°F)

For a more in-depth look at the weather in Seville for each month then have a read through these articles:

• Weather in Seville in June
• Weather in Seville in July
• Weather in Seville in August
• Weather in Seville in September

Tips To Survive Seville in Summer

• Avoid going out during the middle of the day: The sun is strongest between 1 pm and 5 pm, so try to stay indoors during these hours. Weirdly, the peak temperature happens after this, and you’ll notice that the air temperature soars between 5 pm – 7 pm.

• Plan your sightseeing accordingly: If you’re visiting Seville in June onwards, aim to be up and out in the early morning or wait until early evening when the sun sets.

• Stay hydrated and avoid drinking alcohol during the daytime: Drink lots of water throughout the day – one of the great things about Seville is that there are loads of water fountains throughout the city. Carry a refillable water bottle and keep topping it up. Also as tempting as that ice-cold beer is, try not to drink too much alcohol during the daytime, save it for later in the day.

• Dress according to the weather: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothes, a hat, and sunglasses. If you’re planning to visit religious sites – like Seville Cathedral – shorts are ok, but they might make you cover up your shoulders if you’re wearing a strappy top. It’s a little hit-and-miss whether they enforce this or not.

• Eat light meals: I tend to find the heat suppresses my appetite. During the daytime opt for salads, fruits, and or just a couple of tapas, and then have a bigger meal when it’s cooler.

• Become a night owl: Because it’s so hot, many activities and events happen later in the evening when it’s cooler. It’s not uncommon to see families out with their kids in the park at midnight here. One of the best places to catch the cool evening air is from one of Seville’s trendy rooftop bars.

• Embrace the siesta: Do what the locals do, and take a nap in the afternoon to escape the hottest part of the day. This also helps you to sustain the early mornings and later nights. 

• Visit indoor places during the peak heat of the day: Plan your day so that you spend afternoons in museums, galleries, or other air-conditioned spots to stay cool. Plenty of them are free to enter as well.

What to Do in Seville in the Summer

Real Alcázar de Sevilla

The Real Alcázar has a history that spans several centuries. 

Originally constructed as a fort in 913 by the Moors, it has been expanded and renovated numerous times. In the 14th century, it was transformed into a royal palace, incorporating Mudéjar, Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements into its architecture.

The Real Alcázar de Sevilla is a magnificent palace complex featuring a multitude of gardens and intricate architecture. 

The rooms in this UNESCO-listed building are designed to be cool inside – even in the peak of summer. You’ll get to wander through intricately decorated rooms, connected by passageways and leading out into shaded patios. 

Some of the best things to see at the Real Alcázar are:

• The Patio de las Doncellas
• The Hall of Ambassadors
• The Baths of Lady María de Padilla
• The Gardens

Even though it’s much quieter in Seville in summertime, the Alcazar can still get busy. Beat the crowds by arriving early. 

Catedral de Sevilla & Giralda

Seville Cathedral is not only one of the city’s most famous landmarks, but it’s also a great place to visit to get out of the heat as it stays fairly cool and airy inside.

Built on the site of a former mosque, it became a cathedral in the 15th century. It’s the largest Gothic cathedral in the world. I’m not religious, but I can still appreciate how beautiful this building is – it’s a blend of Gothic, Mudéjar, and Renaissance styles. 

Even though summer is insanely hot – and you might feel like wearing next to nothing – make sure you’re following the dress rules for the Cathedral.

Once you’re there, here are some highlights you shouldn’t miss:

• The Giralda Tower
• Christopher Columbus’ Tomb
• The Orange Tree Courtyard
• The Main Altar

Casa de Pilatos

Originally built in the 16th century, Casa de Pilatos, is a beautiful palace with a mix of Italian Renaissance and Mudéjar styles – if you enjoyed Alcazar, then you’ll probably like this too. 

The palace has cool, airy rooms with marble floors separated by courtyards and gardens. It’s perfect for escaping from the heat. 

Palacio de las Dueñas

This beautiful palace was the home of an affluent Andalusian family, the House of Alba. 

This grand residence showcases their wealth. Like many of the stately homes and palaces in Seville, it has a mix of styles with plenty of Moorish influences. 

Palacio de las Dueñas is filled with relaxing and shaded gardens with alcoved walkways. The rooms here are filled with family heirlooms.

Sevilles Museums and Art Galleries

The city’s museums and galleries are perfect summer spots because they’re indoors and often have great air conditioning. 

Here are some of our top picks:

• CaixaForum Sevilla: This modern cultural centre hosts a variety of temporary art exhibitions, science displays, and educational workshops.
• Museo de Bellas Artes de Sevilla: One of Spain’s most important fine arts museums, it has an impressive collection of Spanish paintings from the medieval period to the early 20th century, including works by Murillo and Zurbarán.
• Centro Andaluz de Arte Contemporáneo: Located in a former monastery, this contemporary art museum features modern artworks, installations, and performances, reflecting a mix of Andalusian and international artists.
• El Antiquarium: An underground museum displaying Roman and Moorish ruins discovered during the construction work of Las Setas.
• Museo de Artes y Costumbres Populares: This museum highlights traditional Andalusian culture with exhibits on folk art, crafts, and customs, providing an interesting look at the region’s heritage. It’s also one of the most photogenic buildings in the city.

Other Indoor Attractions

Seville has plenty of other indoor attractions that are ideal for escaping the summer heat.

Here are some fun places to check out:

• Indoor Mini Golf: A fun and quirky activity where you can enjoy a round of mini-golf in a cool, air-conditioned setting with creative and challenging courses – what makes this place stand out is that it’s glow-in-the-dark.
• Neon Brush: A new take on the sip and paint, where you drink wine and do painting, is Neon Brush – this unique experience lets you paint with neon colours under black lights.
• World of Illusions: A fun museum filled with optical illusions and interactive exhibits great place for adults and children.
• Cinemas: Look for screenings marked as VOSE or versión original (V.O.) if you’re a non-Spanish speaker. These films are shown in their original language with Spanish subtitles.
• Flamenco Shows: Most flamenco shows take place in small intimate venues – sometimes in a small shaded courtyard, other times in a small theatre.

How to Enjoy Outdoor Spaces in Seville During Summer

You can still enjoy the fabulous outdoor places in the Summer, it just needs a little more planning – and early starts to make the most of the fresher morning air.  

​Plaza de España

This grand plaza was built for the 1929 Ibero-American Exposition and is one of the most famous landmarks in the city. 

Plaza de España features an enormous semi-circular building adorned with towers, intricate bridges over a canal, and a central fountain all covered in colourful tiles.

One of the downsides is that there’s next to no shade here, and even the alcoved walkways feel hot. 

To make the most of your visit, go in the early morning or after dark when the building is lit up – the fountain also changes colours. Stand in the right place, and you’ll catch the refreshing spray from it. 

Parque de María Luisa

Seville is blessed with tons of green spaces, Maria Luisa Park is the most beautiful one. It’s next to Plaza de España.

It’s filled with exotic plants, fountains, and photogenic pavilions. There are dozens of winding paths leading past gigantic trees and through flower-clad pergolas with plenty of benches and grassy spots to sit in the shade.

Because of the abundance of trees, you could visit the park at any time of the day. There’s no shortage of shaded places to relax here for a couple of hours. 

Las Setas

Also known as the Metropol Parasol, Las Setas is the world’s largest wooden structure. It’s located in Plaza de la Encarnación.

Under the structure, you’ll find a market, as well as the archaeological museum in the basement.

There is a walkway on the top of La Setas, which gives fantastic views over the city -however, there is no shade at the top so during summer it’s best to go early in the morning or late in the day as the sun is setting. 

Another good time to visit is at night time to see the light show where the structure ripples with colour, however, the downside of visiting only at night is that you don’t really get to see the city. 

I recommend checking out when it sunsets – you can check sunset times in advance and then plan your visit one hour before that. That way you’ll get to see the city and it’s not too long to wait until the light show after nightfall. 

The Guadalquivir River

The Guadalquivir River is the historic river in Seville. 

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the riverside:

• Walk along the pathways – they are on both sides of the river
• Hire a stand-up paddleboard (SUP) or kayak
• Take a mini river cruise
• Find a spot on the river bank and have a picnic.

There is a little bit of shade along the paths and on the river bank, but on the river, there is no escape from the sun. I recommend doing all of these activities early in the morning or early evening.

Barrio Santa Cruz

Barrio Santa Cruz is one of the prettiest neighbourhoods in Seville, known for its narrow, labyrinth-like streets and historic buildings.

Centuries ago, when this area was built, they had to use natural ways of keeping the temperature cool.

The streets were designed with narrow pathways and tall buildings set close together, which helps keep out the worst of the sun.

There are plenty of things to see in Barrio Santa Cruz, from quiet plazas to historic churches and old Jewish Quarter streets, and the extra shade makes it one of the more pleasant parts of Seville to explore in summer.

Calle Sierpes

This is the main shopping street in the centre of Seville. 

During the summer months, the city council covers Calle Sierpes with enormous canvas covers that are stretched between the buildings to provide much-needed shade. 

If you still find it too hot, just pop into one of the many air-conditioned shops or cafes. There’s no shortage of places to choose from.

Outdoor Cinemas and Concerts

To make the most of the cooler evenings, there are plenty of evening events happening outdoors.

You’ll find outdoor cinemas and concerts at venues all over the city.

Here are some highlights: 

• Alamillo Park: Located in the northern part of Isla de Cartuja, every year this park hosts family-friendly summer events like outdoor cinemas, theatre, and magicians in July and August.
• Nights at the Alcazar: From June to September in Seville, you can enjoy live concerts in the beautiful gardens of the Alcazar.
• Cine de Verano en la Diputación de Sevilla: This outdoor cinema shows a mix of Spanish and international films. Many are dubbed in Spanish, so look for English-language films marked with VOSE for the non-dubbed version.

Food and Drink During Summer

It’s a good idea to adjust your eating and drinking habits to stay cool and comfortable. 

Eat smaller and lighter meals during the daytime, and save your main meal for later at night when it’s cooler. 

Drink tons of water, and use the water fountains around the city to stay hydrated. Keep alcohol to a minimum during the peak heat, as it can dehydrate you quickly.

Here are some food and drink tips:

Alcoholic drinks:

• Beer: The local beer is Cruzcampo, although Seville has some good craft beer bars. Order a caña (pronounced can-ya), the smallest size, to keep your drink cool. Don’t be shocked if it’s served in a large glass, only half-filled.
• Tinto de Verano: A refreshing mix of red wine and soda water or lemonade served with ice.
• Sangria: Typically for tourists. Locals prefer Tinto de Verano.

Non-alcoholic drinks:

• Ice Coffee: Usually served in two glasses. One with hot coffee and the other with ice. Mix it yourself to enjoy a cool coffee.
• Fresh Juices: The best places to find freshly blended juices are in cafes that specialise in breakfast and brunch. 

Food:

• Salads: Try typical salads like Ensalada Mixta (mixed salad with tuna, eggs, and vegetables) or Ensalada de Tomate (fresh tomato salad).
• Gazpacho: A cold, refreshing tomato-based soup.
• Salmorejo: A thicker, creamier version of gazpacho, often topped with ham and hard-boiled eggs.

Things to Do in Seville With Kids in the Summer

Seville has plenty of fun activities for kids in the summer. 

Here are some great options:

• Isla Mágica: This theme park is packed with thrilling rides, shows, and attractions that will keep kids entertained all day. They have a few water-based rides such as a log flume, rapids, and the giant raft.
• Agua Mágica Sevilla: Located next to Isla Mágica, this water park has slides, pools, a lazy river, and artificial beaches to help you cool off in the summer heat.
• Guadalpark: Another great water park with a variety of slides, wave pools, and areas for younger children.
• Seville Aquarium: An indoor attraction to escape from the sun with various themed areas including a shark tunnel.

Day Trips From Seville in the Summer

Escape the heat of the city for a day and take a day trip from Seville.

Here are some fantastic options:

• Ronda & The White Villages: Visit the picturesque town of Ronda, famous for its dramatic cliffs and stunning views, and explore the white-washed villages nearby.
• Malaga: This vibrant coastal city offers beautiful beaches, a busy port, and plenty of cultural attractions.
• Mountain/Forest Regions: Enjoy the cooler temperatures and lush landscapes of Sierra Norte de Seville (approx 1hr15 drive), Sierra de Grazalema (approx 1hr45 drive), or Sierra Nevada (approx 3 hrs drive). All are perfect for hiking and nature walks.

Beaches Near Seville 

Seville doesn’t have a beach. 

But the good news is that there are plenty of beaches near Seville that you can easily get to. 

These are just some of your options:

• Matalascañas: This is the closest beach to Seville, just about an hour away. It’s perfect for a quick getaway with its long sandy stretches and clear waters.
• Chipiona and Rota Beaches: These are popular family-friendly spots with plenty of amenities, making them ideal for a full day of fun.
• El Portil, Huelva: A quieter beach known for its natural beauty, great for those looking to relax away from the crowds.
• Playa Sancti Petri, Chiclana de la Frontera: This beach offers stunning views and is perfect for water sports like windsurfing and kiteboarding.
• Punta Umbría: Another fantastic option in Huelva, known for its wide sandy beaches and vibrant atmosphere.
• Playa de la Victoria and Cortadura, Cadiz: These beaches in Cádiz are perfect for sunbathing and swimming, with a lively promenade nearby.
• Islantilla, Huelva: A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and plenty of activities, ideal for both relaxation and adventure.

If you don’t have a car, then we recommend going to the beaches in Cadiz. Cadiz is well connected by a regular train from Seville so it’s the easiest one to get to. 

Check train tickets and times to go from Seville to Cadiz.

Accommodation Tips 

Finding the right accommodation in Seville during the summer can make a big difference in staying comfortable. 

Here are some tips on what to look for:

• Rooms on the Ground Floor: These rooms are naturally cooler than rooms on the upper floors.
• Individual Air Conditioning Units: Look for places with individual air con units rather than centrally controlled ones.
• Accommodation with Inside Patios: Many old Andalusian houses have been converted into hotels and still have their inside patios – these are cool and shaded areas to relax.
• Roof Top Pool: Opt for a hotel with a rooftop pool for cooling off after a day of sightseeing.

Summer in Seville FAQs

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