A Guide to Visiting Barcelona in September | Attractions, Festivals & Things to do
If there is one month in the year that warrants a visit to the gorgeous city of Barcelona, it's September. Great weather and fewer crowds (read: off-season) make this the ideal month to explore the various attractions including the architecture and museums. September, as compared to the other months in the year, is also when this cosmopolitan capital sees a slew of exciting and culturally immersive festivals.
Is September a Good Time to Visit Barcelona?
September is not only the best month to enjoy late summer vibes in Barcelona, it is also off-season, so no annoying touristy crowds! Plus, several lesser-known but cool festivals take place during this month.
Why You Should Visit
- Not too hot or humid, not too cold, the weather is just perfect.
- Just enough sun to enjoy outdoors & beaches.
- It's the off-season, so there are fewer tourist crowds.
- All prime tourist attractions are open.
- Empty streets and attractions for you to visit.
- Several local fiestas and festivals take place during September.
- It's the perfect time of year to try a wine tour or some pleasant beach time.
What To Look Out For
- September has only four rainy days on average but you may have to carry an umbrella just as a precaution.
- Rains in September are usually heavy downpours lasting about 25 to 30 minutes.
- You will have to pack summer-holiday-type clothes for the day but also pack a couple of warm layers for the nights, in case it really cools down.
- The airfare and accommodation fares are comparatively lower.
Overview of Weather in Barcelona in September
September is believed to be the perfect month to enjoy Barcelona in its peak beauty. The weather is transitioning to autumn and the raging summer temperatures and humidity levels have considerably dropped without it getting too cold. Besides, there are only 4 days of rain in the month and it's still warm enough to hit the beach.
- Average Temperature: High - 26ºC Low - 13ºC
- Average Rainfall: 40mm to 48mm (No chances of fog or snow)
- Daily Wind Speed: 7.1mph to 7.7mph. Moderate breezes from the south.
- Temperature of the sea: 24ºC
More About Weather in Barcelona in September
How hot is Barcelona in September?
Since it's late summer/almost autumn in September, the weather is the most pleasant. It isn't hot or humid like peak summer or freakishly cold like in the winters with the average temperature high being 26°C and average temperature low being 13°C.
Can You Swim at Beaches in Barcelona in September?
It is still hot enough to head down to the beach and enjoy a swim in the sea in September. The temperature of the sea is a nice toasty 24°C so you get to enjoy the must-visit Barcelona beaches in all its glory.
Does it rain in Barcelona in September?
The chances of rainfall are high on nearly four days in the month of September. The cloud cover is fairly low so you will largely witness clear skies. Fog and snow are highly unlikely in Barcelona in September.
Is Barcelona Windy in September?
Conflicting winds are a regular occurrence because Barcelona is perched on a slightly elevated plateau. In September a moderate breeze comes in from the south with average wind speeds reaching 7.7mph, which is not windy at all.
Top 12 Things to do in Barcelona in September
Since September in Barcelona is not overly crowded, you can actually relax and enjoy Gaudi’s creations in Barcelona. Peak seasons are notorious for long line-ups, heat, and for being overly crowded. The following places and things are must-visits when in Barcelona in September:
1. Visit Sagrada Familia
Gaudi's Attraction | Cathedral
The Sagrada Familia Cathedral draws millions of visitors every year, nearly 4.5 million! This makes it Barcelona’s star attraction but also a pain to experience because of the swarm of people but this is why September is the best month to head here. Fewer crowds, both inside and out will help you explore and enjoy visionary, Gaudi’s masterpiece to the fullest.
September Timings: Daily from 9:00AM to 6:00PM
from €47
2. Visit Park Guell
Gaudi's Attraction | Park
The expansive Park Güell, another one of Gaudi's creations is the spot to take a stroll in during September's sunny but not overbearingly hot weather. This one-of-a-kind, 18-acre park is a hit with photographers and art enthusiasts alike, featuring masterpieces like the Dragon Stairs, the Guardian House, the Hypostyle Hall, and more.
September Timings: Daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
from €10
3. Explore Casa Vicens
Gaudi's Attraction | House Museum
Casa Vincenzo was also designed by Gaudi and interestingly was one of his very first designs for a house. Today, it stands as a museum that boasts such stunning architectural beauty that it is on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It's an architectural beauty too with four structured floors built using the traditional Catalan technique of building load-bearing walls.
September Timings: Daily from 10:00AM to 7:00PM.
from €16
4. Visit Casa Mila
Gaudi's Attraction | House Museum
Popularly referred to as the Stone Quarry, Casa Mila was the final residential project of Gaudi before taking on the Sagrada Familia. Although it was built as a residence, the famous mansion is now a modernist museum and has been declared a world UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is also one of Gaudi's first buildings that aside from its art displays is also known to host nighttime rooftop activities like the fascinating summer concert.
September Timings: Day tour: 9:00 AM to 8:30 PM | Night tour: 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM
from €24
5. Casa Batllo
Gaudi's Attraction | Landmark Building
Gaudi employed a cutting-edge design technique called Trencadis to build Casa Batllo. The quirky, unique with a curvy, and colorful facade, has earned this architectural wonder the title of a World Heritage Site by UNESCO too. Here, you can experience an augmented reality guided tour and the Casa Batllo’s Magic Nights - an al fresco rooftop concert with views over Barcelona. This exclusive concert at this unmissable landmark happens in September.
September Timings: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM (Friday, Saturday, Sunday) 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Mon, Tue, Wed, Thur)
from €35
6. Drop By The Museums
Cultural Experience
If you think Barcelona is all about architecture, you may want to turn your attention to the exciting museums all around town that pay homage to art and architecture. Spending a day shuttling between these culturally rich locations will give you enough insight to make you fall in love with the city all over again. Definitely stop by Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya, Picasso Museum and FC Barcelona Museum.
Best Museums in Barcelona
7. Go Wine Tasting in the Penedes
Food & Wine
September luckily also happens to be the early autumn season in Barcelona which means time to bring out those wine bottles! To take a wine tasting tour there's no place better than the Penedes region that is brimming with first-rate wineries, big and small, many of whom specialize in producing Cava and table wines.
8. Le Mercé Festival
Local Festivities
Branded as the "national festival" by locals, Le Mercé is only the BIGGEST street party in town that happens on September 24, every year. This annual carnival time is actually hosted in honor of the patron saints of Barcelona, the Virgin of Grace. Several shows across the city are free to attend and the last we heard, there were about 600 of them!
Date: September 24 (every year)
9. La Diada, National Day of Catalunya
Cultural Experience
If you're in Barcelona on September 11, drop everything to be part of the Catalan Pride during La Diada or the National Day of Catalunya. This day of cultural events, independence demonstrations, and marches held in the heart of the city celebrates all things, Catalan. This is a one-day event only that is said to have gathered between 500,000 or 2 million people in the past year.
Date: September 11 (every year)
10. Beach Days
Unwind at the Beach
The most fun you will have doing outdoor activities in Barcelona is during the month of September and there is no better outdoor activity than to hit the beach! It's still nice and warm (average 26°C by day) in September. Oh, and the beaches are relatively empty with reduced crowds, as everyone gets back to school and work, so use this time to soak in the sun, build sandcastles and take plenty of pictures for the 'gram.
11. Boat Parties & Cruises
Sunset Cruise
The Mediterranean Sea is like Barcelona's crowning jewel, especially the balmy-golden sunsets here. You could either get on a 2-hour sunset cruise to enjoy the stunning views or take full advantage of September's warm weather and go on a sailing trip. September is also when the last of the Barcelona boat parties set sail, so if you want to dance and sip sangrias while you meet fellow travelers, make sure to book a boat party too!
12. Tapas Food & Beer Festival
Food & Beer
A gastronomic heaven in September, you will find tons of street food vendors and festivals showcasing Spanish cuisines during this month. There are also standalone food festivals like the Barcelona Taste Food Tour in the Poble-Sec neighborhood where local cuisine is the highlight and the Barcelona Taste Food Tour is held in the Diagonal neighborhood of Barcelona.
Festivals in Barcelona in September
Barcelona in September is home to tons of festivals and events. For one, like we mentioned earlier, La Mercè – Europe’s biggest street party happens every year on September 24. Other festivals include:
Festa Major del Poblenou – Street festival/party
Venue: Across Barcelona
Date: September 6 to September 15
As a yearly tradition, Barcelona’s neighborhoods take turns hosting their versions of a neighborhood block party. In September, districts of Barceloneta, La Ribera, and Poblenou all hold Festa Major. Festa Major del Poblenou transforms this residential area into a street part of sorts. The bars, restaurants, and cafés are bustling with activities and free concerts across the neighborhood.
Read More
Rock Out at the BAM Festival
Venue: Barcelona City Center and other spots
Date: September 23 to September 26
Barcelona Accio Musical or BAM is a series of concerts to accompany the La Mercè festival (above). There are venues all over the city, and the music tends to be indie rock, though you’ll also find electronic and pop artists. The concerts are all outdoor, and, even better - free! Visit your local tourist office and ask for a programme, or find more info on Barcelona’s city website.
Read MoreEvents in Barcelona in September
Diada Nacional de Catalunya
Date: September 11
The National Day of Catalonia is both a poignant reminder of the independence struggles of the region of Catalonia, as well as a celebration of the Catalan identity. People spill out on the streets waving the Catalan flag and professing their love for the region.
Read More
La Merce
Date: September 20 - 24
La Merce is the annual festival commemorating the Patron Saint of Barcelona ‘Mare de Deu de la Mercè’. It heralds the onset of autumn and is celebrated with street festivals and is a fantastic time to see authentic Catalan traditions like human towers, correfocs or fire runs, folk dancing, parades, giant maché dolls, and music shows.
Read MoreKnow Before You Visit Barcelona in September
Time Zone: GMT +2
Currency: Euro EUR - €
Country code: +34
Emergency numbers: 112
What to Wear in Barcelona in September
- Since September is technically late summer and also the start of autumn, the weather ranges from a pleasantly warm (26°C) to cool.
- During the day, dress in holiday clothes like shorts, skirts, tee-shirts and also carry swimwear.
- The nights may get ever so slightly chill so it would be wise to wear long/covered pants and full-sleeved tops or carry a layer or two like light cardigans and jackets just in case.
- Pack dressy clothes if you're visiting upscale restaurants or pubs.
What to Pack in Barcelona in September
- Power Adapter: A type F plug (grounded) or a type C plug (non-grounded).
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and beach accessories for hitting the beaches.
- Comfortable shoes.
- An umbrella for the rain.
- A backpack to carry around during the day with enough compartments for all your belongings.
- Anti-theft purses and crossbody bags.
Getting Around Barcelona in September
By Metro: An extensive electric railway network, Barcelona runs mostly underground and has eight lines and 161 stations.
By Bus: With 200 lines that run till late in the night extensively covering the city, exploring Barcelona by bus is convenient and cost-efficient.
By Cable Car (Funicular): There are three cable car lines in Barcelona that you can hop onto and take in majestic views of the city. Two lines reach Tibidabo while others offer access to Montjuïc.
On Foot: Exploring Barcelona by foot, especially in September, is a great idea given the temperature and scarce crowds.
Taxis and Bicycles: Taxis and bicycles on rent are available across Barcelona and can be taken on hire whenever convenient.
Where to Stay in Barcelona in September
Humble accommodation for budget backpackers to opulent hotels for the well-off, Barcelona has an excellent range of stay options for all kinds of travelers. Read more to find hotels that suit your fancy.
Budget Hotels - Hostal Boqueria, ibis Meridiana, Vincci Bit, Hotel Oasis, Hostal Sans, Casa Kessler, Violeta Boutique, Fabrizzio’s Petit, 360 Arts & Culture
Mid Range Hotels - Hotel Ambit Barcelona, Murmuri Residence Mercader, Hotel Soho Barcelona, Hotel Cuatro Naciones, Hotel Pratik Vinoteca, Hotel Costanza, Mayerling Schumann Barcelona
Luxury Hotels - Mercer Hotel Barcelona, Casa Camper, Mandarin Oriental, Grand Hotel Central, Majestic Hotel & Spa, Soho House, H10 Casa Mimosa, El Palace, Catalonia Magdalenes
What to Eat in Barcelona in September
Rich in culture and history, Barcelona is equally known for its unique delicacies that combine zest, spice, and seafood. You must try some of these legendary dishes in Barcelona in September.
Paella: This iconic rice and seafood dish actually originates from Valencia. It is considered Spain’s national dish and is found in every corner of the country.
Bombas: These are ball-sized potato croquettes that are served with two different sauces: a white garlic aioli and a rich spicy red sauce.
Crema Catalana: Known as the Creme Brulee of Spain, Crema Catalana is a decadent milk-based dish. The dessert is made of milk turned into a custard and flavored with lemon and orange zest, which gives it a zing.
Hacks & Tips to Visit Barcelona in September
- Low accommodation prices, cheaper flights, lesser crowds, and the perfect weather are all highlights and are what make September a great month to visit Barcelona.
- If you missed out on other festivals in September check out Le Mercé or Festa Major del Poblenou that happen later in the month.
- The Swab Barcelona Art Fair takes place in September and is a great chance for amateurs to peek into the world of art.
- The National Day of Catalonia has in recent times become a politically charged celebration. While it is an amazing cultural experience to be a part of it, refrain from making any statements against the movement unless you are a Catalan or an expert!
- A lot of locals get the day off on National Day of Catalonia that happens on 9 September and head to Barcelona making it unusually crowded for September.
- September is a great time to take a day trip outside Barcelona and also head to the various beaches.
- With summer behind you, the temperatures in September are perfect for taking a walking tour of Barcelona. There is a range of walking tours you can take to explore Gaudi sites, the Gothic quarter, and La Ramblas.
- Be aware of your possessions, petty crimes in Barcelona, especially on public transportation are very common.
- Carry an umbrella because there may be light showers in September.
- Remember to check the schedules of events and festivals and if they have an entrance fee well in advance.
- If you’re out visiting a nightclub, remember that some clubs in Barcelona may have a dress code.
Explore Barcelona Through the Year
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Barcelona in September
Yes, Barcelona in September has cool, pleasant weather and fewer tourist crowds.
The best things to do in Barcelona in September include visiting top attractions such as Sagrada Familia,Camp Nou and Casa Batllo among many others. You can also explore Barcelona's theme parks, watch a flamenco show or go on a day trip while visiting Barcelona in September.
The average temperature of Barcelona in September ranges between a high of 26ºC and a low of 13º.
Barcelona is pleasantly warm in September. The temperature ranges between a high of 26ºC and a low of 13º.
Yes, it is ideal weather to go swimming in September with the temperature of the sea being nice, warm, and toasty at 24°C. Highly recommended because it's neither too hot nor too cold.
It is sunny with clear skies but the weather is not too hot in Barcelona in September.
Dress light during the day in holiday clothes like shorts, skirts, tees and blouses. In the night, if it gets chilly you can wear full pants or tops with sleeves and light cardigans.
There are a few days of rain, about 4 days in Barcelona in September.
Barcelona in September is budget friendly because it is off season. Hotel and airfare prices are lower than the rest of the year. You can plan an inexpensive vacation by booking your tickets in advance online.
Barcelona is generally safe for tourists. Watch out for pickpockets and petty thieves though. Anti-theft bags are a good investment.
La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Vicens, and Casa Mila are some of the many attractions you can visit with much fewer crowds in Barcelona in September.
Le Mercé Festival, National Day of Catalunya – La Diada, Festa Major del Poblenou, BAM Festival are some of the major events in Barcelona in September.
The average high is 26°C and the average low is 13°C.
Take your kids to Barcelona's excellent museums for an educational experience. You can also take them along on a food tour or a hike for them to understand the culture in Barcelona a little better. Definitely take them to the beaches too!
Festa Major del Poblenou, and BAM Festival are the main festivals in Barcelona in September.
Diada Nacional de Catalunya and La Mercè are the major events in Barcelona in September.