Malaga in July: Weather, Things to Do & Is It Worth Visiting?

If you're thinking about July for your Malaga trip, you're signing up for peak Mediterranean summer.

Hot days, warm nights, and virtually guaranteed sunshine!

It's the month when the city fully embraces beach life, late dinners, and that slow Spanish style where nothing happens in the afternoon.

Just don't forget the sunscreen, seriously.

For a review of every month, take a look at my best time to visit Malaga guide.

What to Expect from the Weather in July

Daytime temperatures typically reach 30-34°C (86-93°F), and it can feel even hotter in direct sun or when the inland wind blows in from the hills.

The heat builds through the morning and peaks in the early afternoon. By 2-4 pm, the city slows down. Shops close for siesta, streets empty, and anyone with sense retreats indoors or to the beach.

Evenings are warm but comfortable, dropping to around 21°C (70°F). This is when restaurants fill up, the paseo maritimo buzzes, and the city stretches its day well past midnight.

The Mediterranean reaches a beautiful 23°C (73°F) by July, which feels warm and inviting rather than bracing. You can walk straight in without that sharp intake of breath!

The UV index in July is 9-10, which means unprotected skin can burn in under 15 minutes. Take it seriously from day one!

Okay, and that's the weather. Now for reasons why July is fantastic (if you embrace it)!

What's On in July

You can skip ahead to my calendar where I try to keep track of everything free happening in Malaga if you prefer!

No matter the month, there are always a few staples that are always worth catching if you're in the city.

Most museums are free on Sundays, as are the Gibralfaro Castle and the Alcazaba. P.S. The Roman Theatre is ALWAYS free.

La Merced market is on the first Sunday of each month, and the Botanical Gardens are free on Sundays too.

Beach season is in full swing! Chiringuitos host live music, beach bars stay open late, and the paseo maritimo becomes the city's living room.

Outdoor cinema (Cine Abierto) shows films in parks and plazas throughout the summer. Check local listings for screenings; it's a lovely way to spend a warm evening.

Surrounding towns hold their own ferias throughout July. Torremolinos, Benalmadena, and other Costa del Sol towns celebrate with music, food, and fireworks.

What are the best things to do in July?

The beach, obviously! You'll find all of the best beaches here, but if you're brave, venture a little further out and try Crows Rock.

The chiringuitos at Pedregalejo and El Palo serve fresh fish grilled over wood fires on the beach. Sardine espetos are the local speciality, have them for a late lunch while the afternoon heat keeps you in the shade!

When it's too hot, escape into the air-conditioned museums. The Picasso Museum, Centre Pompidou, and Carmen Thyssen are all perfect refuges.

Or head to the mountains! The villages in the Montes de Malaga are noticeably cooler. A lunch in the hills is a welcome escape from coastal heat.

Evenings are for tapas in Malaga Old Town and cocktails on one of Malaga's 30 rooftop bars.

Where to Stay in Malaga

From boutique hotels in the historic centre to beachfront resorts along La Malagueta, Málaga offers accommodations for every budget.

The best area to stay is the Centro Histórico for sightseeing, or the eastern beaches for a relaxed vibe.

GREAT LOCATION

Room Mate Valeria

8.8

Centro Histórico

Stylish design hotel with rooftop pool and bar, steps from the Picasso Museum and cathedral.

From $120/night

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Molina Lario

8.7

Centro Histórico

Elegant 4-star hotel facing the cathedral with rooftop terrace and excellent service.

From $150/night

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BEST VALUE

Soho Boutique Bahía Málaga

8.5

La Malagueta

Modern beachfront hotel with sea views, close to the port and city centre. Great value.

From $90/night

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See our accommodation guide →

What Time Does the Sun Set in July?

The sun sets between 9:15 pm and 9:45 pm throughout July, with the latest sunsets in early July.

This means incredibly long evenings. Dinner at 9 pm still happens in daylight.

The sky doesn't fully darken until after 10 pm. It's one of the best things about Spanish summers, the day just keeps going!

Tours in Malaga

I'm a tour person myself, but there are good tours, and there are bad tours. Here's what I recommend.

Browse all tours →

Is July a Good Time to Visit Malaga?

July is fantastic for beach lovers and those who embrace the Mediterranean summer lifestyle.

You get guaranteed sunshine and beach weather, warm sea swimming, long evenings and outdoor dining, and the full summer atmosphere.

The only reason to skip July is if you struggle with heat above 30°C, prefer quieter destinations, or want to do a lot of active sightseeing on foot. If you wilt in the heat, consider May, June, or September instead.

Ready for Peak Mediterranean Summer?

If July's not quite perfect, maybe take a look at June and August.

If you need any help with deciding, you can always send me an email or contact me on any of my socials. I love helping.

I totally get that picking a month can be difficult; they all have something amazing to see, do and experience in them.

If you're ready to book that trip, take a look at my where to stay in Malaga guide for my recommendations. If you make a booking through here, I earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you, and it helps support my blog.

Thank you for reading, and if you make it to Malaga, please send your photos!