The north of Spain experiences the most rainfall, with some areas receiving over 2,000mm (79 inches) per year, particularly along the Atlantic coast. By contrast, the south of Spain, particularly in Andalusia, can be much drier, with less than 300mm (12 inches) per year in some areas.

Southern Spain, particularly the region of Andalusia, is predominantly characterized by a dry, Mediterranean climate, though its humidity levels fluctuate significantly depending on how close you are to the coastline. In inland cities like Seville and Córdoba, the air is famously dry, especially during the blistering summer months where temperatures frequently soar above 40°C. This low humidity makes the intense heat feel slightly more bearable than a tropical heat, but it also means the landscape can become very arid. However, as you move toward the Costa del Sol or the Atlantic coast near Cádiz, the proximity to the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean introduces much higher levels of relative humidity. While the coastal air feels "stickier," the overall rainfall across the south remains quite low, with long, sun-drenched periods and very few rainy days throughout the year. In 2026, climate patterns continue to show a trend toward increased aridity in the interior, making the "dryness" of the southern Spanish summer a defining feature for travelers and residents alike.