Spain in August: what you need to know before you go

Where to go: cities and routes

With two weeks, you'll see most of it. Start in Madrid for the art museums, take a day trip to Toledo, then catch the train to Barcelona, Seville and Granada.

For many visitors, Granada is the highlight. The Alhambra palace really is impressive. Below it, the Albayzín neighbourhood is a maze of narrow streets you'll happily get lost in. Outside the big cities, you'll find the white villages of the Cádiz province, small, quiet, and far more characterful than you'd expect. In Córdoba, look for patios full of flowers and rooftop terraces where you can watch the city in the evening.

• •Book the Alhambra months in advance - even in August.
• •The train is your best friend: reliable, cheap and comfortable.
• •The white villages in Cádiz are less busy than Granada, ideal if you're after some peace.

Getting around

The train is the standard choice. The network is extensive, trains leave on time, and you sit back in your seat instead of behind the wheel. Read up beforehand on how it works - buying tickets, boarding, the small stuff - so you don't panic at the station.

Prefer to drive yourself? Compare prices on Discover Cars. Renting a car costs more in August, but it gives you freedom over your schedule.

• •Read up beforehand on how trains work in Spain.
• •Compare car hire prices online, and save money by booking early.
• •Trains are busier in August, so get to the station on time.

What you need to know about Spanish customs

Meals happen late. Lunch is around 2pm, and dinner starts at 9pm. Restaurants don't open until around 8pm. Don't turn up at 6pm, because you'll be eating alone.

Goodbyes take a while. If you leave after drinks, dinner or a walk, don't expect a quick exit. Spaniards don't just say goodbye once, they keep chatting, walk with you a bit further, turn back for one more remark. It's warm and friendly, not rude. Enjoy it.

Here's the tricky part: in August, afternoon temperatures can hit 40 degrees. Many shops close between 2pm and 5pm. You're not going mad, it's just too hot. Protect yourself: drink plenty of water, wear sun cream, and bring sunglasses. Outside August, pack warm clothes too, since evenings can be cool.

• •Don't eat before 8pm in restaurants.
• •Don't rush your goodbyes - many Spaniards like to chat a little longer.
• •Pack warm layers for spring, autumn and evenings.
• •Drink plenty of water in August, it's intensely hot.