Travelling to Palencia in the summer is, without a doubt, an experience full of Castilian charm, monumental culture and yes—plenty of heat. While many associate this province with crisp winters, the reality is that Palencia’s thermometers climb confidently as the warmer months roll in. If you're planning a summer escape and wondering how to survive the heat without melting along the way, you're in the right place. This guide offers practical advice with a playful twist, so you can enjoy the city in style, stay cool and keep your sense of humour intact.
Seek the shade: your best friend in the city
In Palencia, walking on the shadier side of the street is a refined survival skill. The historic centre is perfect for putting it into practice—especially Calle Mayor, where its covered arcades offer both shelter and a lively local vibe. For a cooler breather, head to leafy green spaces like Parque del Salón, Huerta de Guadián or Sotillo de los Canónigos—urban lungs where the shade is as welcome as the calm.
Water, please: lifesaving fountains
When the heat hits hard, staying hydrated is essential. Fortunately, Palencia is full of public fountains. Plaza Mayor, San Francisco and Isla Dos Aguas are key spots to refill your bottle and re-energise. Always carry a reusable bottle, and don’t hesitate to splash your neck with a bit of water—it’s summer, after all, and dignity is easier to maintain when you’re not fainting from the heat.
Museums and churches: where culture meets cool
Taking refuge indoors can be both enlightening and a welcome break from the sun. Step inside the majestic Cathedral of San Antolín, or explore the Diocesan Museum and the Fundación Díaz Caneja—cool, quiet, and brimming with history. If you're on a mission to stay chilled, don’t skip the Victorio Macho Museum or any of the city's temporary exhibitions—they’re ideal stops on your “cool route”.
Tasty pit stops: granitas and iced coffee
Summer isn't summer without an ice-cold treat. Palencia boasts refreshing havens like La Gustosa and Palencia Helados, where handmade flavours hit the spot every time. For those who prefer their caffeine cold, the shaded terraces in the centre are perfect for unwinding. Let the relaxed pace of a proper holiday wash over you with every sip.
The Carrión: a riverside breeze without the dip
The Carrión River is your natural ally when seeking shade and a bit of a breeze. Stroll its tree-lined banks, pedal its riverside paths or simply park yourself at Isla Dos Aguas and watch the world drift by. You don’t need to dive in to enjoy the river—just let the sound of flowing water and the green surroundings cool your spirit.
Speak the summer language of Palencia
Want to blend in like a local? Learn this phrase: “It smells like coffee... that means it’s going to rain.” In Palencia, it’s nearly meteorological gospel. When the breeze carries the aroma of roasting beans from the local coffee factories, locals know there’s rain on the way. It may not be scientifically proven, but it’s a surefire conversation starter with any palentino.
Your ultimate retreat: Hotel Castilla Vieja
When it comes to staying cool and comfortable, Hotel Castilla Vieja is your perfect base. Centrally located, with air-conditioned rooms, local cuisine and walking distance from everything that matters—it's the place to recharge after a hot day of sightseeing. Museums, parks and chilled cafés are just around the corner.
Book your urban getaway now and face the heat with confidence—because Palencia, even under the sun, is full of life and worth every moment.
Surviving Summer in Palencia: A (Not-So) Serious Guide for Travellers Battling the Heat
Summer is very much alive (and sweaty) in Palencia
Visiting Palencia in summer is undeniably a charming experience that blends Castilian heritage, monumental culture and, yes, quite a bit of heat. While many associate the province with winter chills, the truth is Palencia’s thermometers climb confidently in the warmer months. If you’re planning a trip and wondering how to survive summer in Palencia without melting, you’ve come to the right place. This guide offers real tips with a light-hearted twist—so you can enjoy the city without losing your style, cool or sense of humour.
Stick to the shade: your best ally
In Palencia, walking on the shady side of the street is practically an art form. The historic city centre is perfect for this, especially along Calle Mayor, where arcades provide protection and a lively atmosphere. You can also take refuge in green spaces like Parque del Salón, Huerta de Guadián or Sotillo de los Canónigos—urban oases perfect for a cool and relaxing break.
Water, please: fountains that save the day
When the heat kicks in, staying hydrated is key. Thankfully, Palencia is full of public fountains—Plaza Mayor, San Francisco and Isla Dos Aguas are prime spots to refill your bottle and recharge. Always carry a reusable bottle and don’t hesitate to splash a bit of water on your neck. Summer might be relentless, but these fountains are your graceful defence.
Culture and cool air: museums and churches
Finding shelter in air-conditioned spaces can be both culturally enriching and physically refreshing. Churches like the Cathedral of San Antolín, with its magnificent Gothic architecture, or museums such as the Diocesan Museum or the Fundación Díaz Caneja, are perfect places to cool down while feeding your curiosity. Don’t miss the Victorio Macho Museum or a temporary exhibition to complete your “penguin-mode” cultural route with flair.
Flavours of summer: granitas and iced coffee
Summer wouldn't be complete without a granita. In Palencia, you’ll find proper refreshment havens like Bueno Bueno or Heladería Brescia, where artisan flavours win over every visitor. If you prefer a chilled coffee, shaded terraces in the city centre invite you to sit back, switch off and savour the moment. That slow holiday pace is part of the charm.
The Carrión: a river that cools without swimming
The River Carrión is a top companion for those seeking shade and a natural breeze. Wander along its banks, cycle its leafy paths or simply relax at Isla Dos Aguas. You don’t need to take a dip to enjoy it—just let the sound of running water and the green surroundings refresh your soul.
Speak the local summer lingo
Want to truly blend in? Learn this phrase: “It smells like coffee… must be rain on the way.” In Palencia, this is practically a science. When the wind carries the aroma from the nearby coffee factories, many take it as a sign of an approaching storm. It’s not officially confirmed, but saying it will definitely help you bond with the locals.
Your ultimate refuge: Hotel Castilla Vieja
And when it comes to staying cool and comfy, Hotel Castilla Vieja is your perfect base. With a central location, air-conditioned rooms, local cuisine and easy access to the city’s main attractions, it’s the ideal spot to unwind after a day of summer discoveries. Plus, museums, parks and cafés are just a stone’s throw away.
Book your urban getaway now and be ready for everything—except giving up on fun. Because even under the sun, Palencia is lived to the fullest.