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Summer is here, and if you plan to cross the pond this season for walks through the cobbled streets, gelato in hand, and early evening swims in the golden Mediterranean Sea at sunset, Spain is probably at the top of your list.
Famous for its ancient heritage, sandy beaches and vibrant Spanish culture, the Iberian country is currently leading the booking trends, and it could have something to do with the fact that not one, not two, but four of Europe’s sunniest destinations are here.
According to Holidaysa popular search engine for holiday homes where to go in Spain for the best possible weather between the months of June and August:
Seville
Seville is the historic capital of Andalusia, an autonomous region in southern Spain major European metropolis intersected by wide boulevards, lined with impressive buildings, and famous for its characteristic cathedral, the colorful Triana district and the traditional tapas restaurants.
It is home to Plaza de Españaa semi-circular square bordered by a canal that is perhaps the most beautiful in Spain, if not in Europe, the Royal Alcazar, built during the period of Arab rule in Seville in the Middle Ages, and La Giraldaa former minaret that has been converted into a bell tower.
As if the white tarpaulins covering some streets in the Old Town weren’t indication enough, Seville is also one of the sunniest cities on the continent. 273.9 hours of sunshine per yearand believe us: that can happen scorching warm here regardless of the season.
Murcia
A hidden gem of Spain, just 3 hours by train from Madrid, Murcia is known for the concentration of some of Spain’s best-preserved historic sites, such as the imposing Santa Maria Cathedral, the Episcopal Palace and the Lorca Cathedral. castle on the hilltop.
In addition to the cultural masterpieces and sights, visitors are also drawn to Murcia pristine Mediterranean beacheswith honey-colored sand stretching for several kilometers and inviting, informal beach clubs along the modern waterfront.
The best part is that whether you’re strolling through Murcia’s charming historic center or lounging on the beach or by the pool, it’s highly unlikely that rain will dampen the mood: after all, this vibrant seaside town enjoys a whopping 277.7 hours of sunshine per year.
Alicante
Alicante is an emerging holiday resort in Spain’s Valencia region, characterized by high-rise oceanfront apartments and a modern, palm-shaded boulevard that unfolds along an azure, warm Mediterranean Sea.
Like other southern Spanish cities, Alicante has numerous public beaches, a thriving nightlifeand a food culture that prides itself on diversity, with your usual Paella hotspots and quirky Maghreb eateries sharing the same street.
It’s perfect for experiencing Spanish culture and living on the coast at the same time, and it is a tried and tested beach holiday for Northern Europeans, where the sun shines an average of 280 hours a year, and lower prices for both food and accommodation.
Malaga
It’s perhaps not surprising that Malaga takes the number one spot as the sunniest city in all of Europe: after all, it’s the coastal gem of Andalusia, the warmest region on the continent, thanks to its geographical proximity to Africa, and probably the last place you’d go go. I would expect the weather forecast to be gloomy.
Malaga is not only very popular because of the Malagueta beach and the luxurious resorts a cultural center of the first orderthe birthplace of none other than Pablo Picasso, and with a history spanning more than two millennia, with Greeks, Romans and Moors all setting foot here.
It’s only marginally sunnier than Alicante, with 280.2 hours of sunshine per year, but there’s no denying that it’s something of a European summer capital, with its elegant cathedral-dominated old town, hilltop fortress, laid-back cafes, ancient ruins and access to the sea.
Spain is the warmest country in EuropeAnd in cities like Seville and Cordoba, thermometers can easily reach 40°C in July, even at sunset. So make sure you enjoy your time in the sun wisely: use sunscreen and follow local safety advice during confirmed heat waves.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
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