Planning a summer trip to Spain in 2025? You’re not alone—millions of travelers do the same every year, drawn by its stunning beaches, vibrant cities, and Mediterranean charm. But while the beauty of Spain is undeniable, its intense summer heat can quickly become a health risk if you’re not prepared. This blog covers the top tourist mistakes to avoid, common symptoms caused by heat, and what you can do to stay safe, healthy, and fully enjoy your holiday experience.
When does summer start in Spain and what weather should you expect?
Summer in Spain officially begins on June 21st and lasts until September 22nd or 23rd. During this season, many regions reach temperatures well above 35 °C (95 °F), especially in areas like Andalusia, the Valencian Community, Castilla-La Mancha, and Madrid. The hottest cities include Seville, Córdoba, Murcia, and Badajoz, where thermometers can hit or exceed 40 °C (104 °F) during heatwaves.
Even in coastal cities like Barcelona, Málaga, or Alicante, the combination of heat and humidity can be intense. That’s why it’s important to prepare ahead and avoid common mistakes that can turn the heat into a health issue.
You’re already in Spain, enjoying your vacation. The weather is great, the scenery is amazing… but something feels off. You’re more tired than usual, you’re not sleeping well, your head feels foggy, and your skin is irritated. Welcome to the Spanish summer—spectacular, yes, but also demanding if you’re not prepared.
You might not notice it at first, but the heat can take a toll on your body. We’re not just talking about heatstroke—sometimes it’s a buildup of small discomforts that ends up spoiling your trip. The good news? There’s still time to fix it.
Common heat symptoms during vacation: Why do I feel off in Spain?
At Wosler, we often hear questions like these:
- “I sleep well, so why do I feel so exhausted?”
- “My head feels foggy all day—I can’t focus.”
- “I’m drinking water, but my eyes burn and my stomach feels upset.”
All these symptoms often stem from a shared cause: extreme heat, direct sun exposure, and changes in your daily routine. If ignored, they can lead to heat exhaustion, gastrointestinal issues, or simply feeling unwell throughout your trip.
If you’re already experiencing symptoms like fever, nausea, or persistent aches, we recommend checking out our guide on how to prevent and treat the flu during your trip to Spain.
Most common health mistakes tourists make during summer in Spain
1. Sightseeing during peak sun hours (12–5 PM)
It’s a common mistake: heading out during the hottest time of day. The result? Fatigue, heavy sweating, dizziness, or even heatstroke. Plan your excursions for the early morning or late afternoon, and use the midday hours to relax indoors or enjoy a leisurely meal.
2. Drinking beer or sangría like it’s water
Vacation mode? Sure. But remember: alcohol dehydrates. On hot days, alternate with plenty of water and avoid alcoholic drinks during peak heat. If you’re already dealing with an upset stomach or diarrhea, check out our article on how to manage gastrointestinal illnesses during your holiday in Spain.
3. Eating heavy meals at midday
A dangerous mix: high heat and heavy food. It can slow your digestion, drain your energy, and increase the risk of heat-related discomfort. Stick to fresh fruit, salads, or light local dishes during the hottest hours.
4. Improper sunscreen use
One morning application won’t cut it. Sunscreen should be reapplied every 2 hours—even on cloudy days. If you’ve already had a bad sunburn, you know how painful it is. Avoid it with these sun safety tips for summer in Spain.
5. Walking too much without resting or hydrating
Cities like Seville, Valencia, and Madrid are great for walking, but overdoing it in the heat can backfire. Make breaks part of your plan: rest in the shade, hydrate often, and pay attention to how your body feels.
6. Sleeping in unventilated rooms
Poor sleep weakens your immune system. Many accommodations have air conditioning, but if you don’t use it—or keep windows shut for too long—the air becomes stuffy and your sleep suffers. Keep the room well-ventilated for a better rest.
7. Ignoring early warning signs
Dizziness, headaches, nausea, rapid heartbeat, stomach upset… these are red flags. You don’t need to rush to the ER, but you should listen to your body. If you’re unsure, consult a doctor. We also recommend checking our guides on urinary tract infections and ear infections during vacations, both very common in summer.
How to stay healthy and enjoy summer in Spain
Summer in Spain is just getting started. If you address these small but common mistakes now, you’ll still have time to enjoy your trip to the fullest.
Remember: feeling unwell shouldn’t be part of your vacation. Listen to your body. If you’re not sure whether what you’re feeling is serious, it’s always best to speak to a healthcare professional.
Getting help from Wosler is easy: go directly to wosler.eu from any device—no app download or registration required. You can also scan a QR code at participating hotels, travel agencies, or tourist centers. Within minutes, you’ll be speaking to a licensed doctor in English or Spanish, with no waiting rooms and an e-prescription valid at any pharmacy in Spain.
Wosler offers personalized care wherever you are—including follow-up when needed, clear medical advice, and support whether you’re in a big city or a remote destination. It’s ideal for resolving mild symptoms, preventing complications, or simply having peace of mind.
Because feeling cared for is part of enjoying your trip.
Was this article helpful? Then don’t miss our guide on how to prevent and treat the flu while traveling in Spain and our essential post on what no one tells you about your health when visiting Spain in summer.
Explore more health tips on the Wosler blog. The more you know, the better you’ll enjoy your time in Spain.