We have an opportunity to go to Madrid in July for 6 days and want advice about the heat. We are both in our 70s so that is an issue.
We are certainly prepared to take a train to another city/region. Recommendations of things to do in Madrid in July? Thoughts on traveling to Valencia or to Basque country?
Any advice is greatly appreciated!
It is going to be too hot to be walking around for seniors, you need to stay hydrated. Tell us what you already have planned so we don't recommend the same stuff you know already. It is a lot cooler in the Basque area around San Sebastian and Bilbao.
According to the internet, the average high in Madrid in July is 90.
Highly recommend a stay in the Basque area. I'd split the time between San Sebastian and Bilbao. We loved both cities and you could enjoy the beach in San Sebastian. The Spanish royal family vacationed in San Sebastian. Its a charming city. I'd stay in the old town area.
This opportunity just came up and we haven't planned anything. Given the heat we may want to take a train to Valencia or San Sebastian. Thoughts?
Skip Madrid and go straight where you know you're interested in : Valencia or San Sebastian (in the Basque area where it is a lot cooler).
Other than the north coast and mountainous areas, most of Spain is hot in July. Plan your activities for the morning and evening hours and you should be fine. Check the average temperature for the cities you may want to stay in, then make your decision.
Well, I frequently travel to hot places in the hottest times of the year, but I am a sun worshipper so I can more or less handle it.
Preparation is key!
There is a reason the "siesta" exists--do your sightseeing early AM and later PM, and enjoy a nice relaxing meal mid-day.
First, I try to find hotels with air conditioning, big swimming pools, and comfortable locations. This does not always work in a big central city, but are you coming to Spain to just see Madrid, or to see more of the country? Not sure I would hop all the way over to Valencia by train just to go there, but I would fly to Mallorca (ha-ha).
In Madrid you can certainly sightsee INSIDE places, like the Prado, and the Royal Palace, which more or less removes the sun and heat issue. Cathedrals and churches are also good options. The Plaza Mayor is always buzzing later at night when it is a bit cooler, and it is so nice to stroll around and have some tapas and drinks.
If you are not able to walk on hot days, you can hire a taxi to show you around, or you could try out a Tuk-Tuk tour.
If you head to the South you can actually find some fabulous beaches if you like that kind of outing!
Yes, the North will definitely be more refreshing, but they sometimes have warm days as well. Many people go there to enjoy nature rather than historic sights.
You need to figure out exactly what you want to see and do in Spain before you finalize the trip, as it may be easier to fly into Barcelona or elsewhere rather than Madrid.
Have fun planning!
Too hot, depends on where you are from. I am from South Georgia and Madrid is cooler in the Summer than here.
Only 6 days, stay in Madrid, do the amazing Prado, take a tour of the city to see the Royal Palace and other key sites.
Take day trips to Toledo (don't miss) and Segovia.
The Basque Country and Valencia are far away. If you don't want to do Madrid area, I do recommend the Basque Country.
