July is the hottest month of the year in Granada, and on the warmest days of this month there are few ways to beat the heat, especially as a tourist who wants to be out and about exploring this historic city. It is recommended to come prepared for average high temperatures of 32°C (90°F), and possibly higher on given days.
The average temperature in July is 24°C (75°F), with average low temperatures of 16°C (61°F). Mornings in July often begin mild and comfortable, an ideal time to wander through the Albaicin neighborhood or be one of the first visitors through the Alhambra. Afternoons are often sunny and hot; the perfect time for a light, afternoon meal and rest.
The month of July also has the most hours of sunshine out of the year. On average, there are 12 hours of sunlight per day, and these long days are often filled with sunshine.
There is a 50% chance of a sunny day during the month of July, and only a 33% chance that a given day will be a rainy. In fact, the month of July only has an average of 2 rain days throughout the month, and precipitation normally amounts to an average of 10 mm during all of July. Only the month of August receives less rain on average.
In addition to little precipitation and long days, the average humidity in Granada can be as low as 40% during the month of July.
While the warmer temperatures can be uncomfortable at the height of the afternoon, relatively low humidity and precipitation means it is a dry heat. The dry weather ensures that even at its hottest, it is slightly more bearable when visiting the many sites of Granada. When all else fails, seek some shade and take a siesta.
Located just one minute from the Granada Cathedral, AC Palacio de Santa Paula Autograph Collection is a lavish Marriott hotel in a historic building. When it comes to location and beauty, this hotel is unmatched. The hotel's building is an artistic and historic monument, but this 5-star hotel provides every modern luxury. The 75 guest rooms are on the smaller side for a high-end hotel, but there are many attractions, bars and restaurants nearby such that guests are constantly on the go.
The hotel buildings were once the Santa Paula Convent and the Casa Morisca, and the renovation of both buildings was done with care and respect to the original uses and historic importance. The architecture and design decisions showcase the best of restoration to create comfortable and interesting guest accommodation.
At the Palacio de los Navas it is a devoted attention to detail and diversity that wins over the hearts of guests. Each room is uniquely decorated, but all are light and airy with lots of white walls and fresh linens. Palacio de los Navas is the perfect place to refresh and recharge after a hot July day in Granada. In addition, an enclosed courtyard provides a cool and quiet place to escape the hurried and humid streets.
When July reaches its hottest and guests feel the sweltering heat at mid-day, there is only one satisfying remedy a swim in the stunning rooftop pool at the Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites. The Granada Five Senses Room & Suites occupies a fabulous location right on Gran Via de Colon, and offers a glossy, urban atmosphere to match its unbeatable location. The entire design of the Granada Five Senses Rooms & Suites is contemporary and clean, but it is the crystal waters and sleek glass of the rooftop that causes guests to gush about this hotel.
Ah, Nerja. The temperature in Granada can reach summer highs in July, and it is often a relief to take a day or two away from the city streets and dip your toes in the cooling water of the sea. The clear water of this gorgeous beach is set amongst rocky outcroppings and white cliff sides that drop off into the sea. The perfect location amongst these dramatic features means the water is calm and the beach protected from wind and elements.
July offers a reason to visit Nerja in addition to the blue water, as each year the International Music and Dance Festival is held in the caves near this beach town. Concerts by local and international music acts take place over a couple days in the famous caves of Nerja and this beachfront town is full of visitors who love music, dance and a good time.
When the hot weather truly sets in, it is no wonder that Spanish tradition turns to tapas for food and beverage. The cold drinks make the afternoons bearable and are a refreshing conclusion to any July day, while the tapas vary from light and fresh snacks before a siesta, to hearty dishes at the end of the day.
La Flauta is a great choice for tapas just off Via Colon. The tiny bar is a great stop any time of day, as it opens early for breakfast and stays open straight through the hours of siesta. Also, a popular brunch spot on Sundays, La Flauta makes it look easy to be both traditional and trendy.
Another tapas option that receives rave reviews and lots of love from locals and internationals alike is D'cuadros. The tapa bar is located just off Plaza Trinidad in central Granada. The tapas selection is broad and varied, and at only 2 Euro per tapa, it is tempting to try many of them. This is one tapa bar that is always lively, always crowded and always fun.
Not to be outdone by its smaller cousin, there is great paella to be had in Granada as well. La Parrala is conveniently located between Gran Via de Colon and Calle San Jerónimo and near the Granada Cathedral. It is a bit tricky to find, but worth the time. The interior is casual and relaxed, but the service is excellent and the paella delicious. The seafood paella is particularly good, and many guests add or subtract from the menu offerings to create paella unique to his or her tastes.
Both Islam and Christianity played an important role in the development of the city of Granada. First, there was Islam. The Moors ruled it until 1492, when the Spanish monarchs took over the city and brought Christianity. The impressive Alhambra is the city's symbol of its Islamic history, likewise the Granada Cathedral showcases the Christian influence.
Granada Cathedral was constructed on the site of an ancient mosque over the course of 181 years, beginning in 1518. It remains a major tourist attraction in Granada today. A couple of hours among the impressive interior of this Renaissance Cathedral is the perfect option on a blazing hot July day.
While the Alhambra is Granada's most famous Moorish building, the Corral de Carbon, translated to the "coal house" is the oldest in Granada. The Corral de Carbon is a quick stop among the tourist sites of Granada, but it is a serene location amongst the bustle of the Albaicin.
