‌

Your Complete Month on Month Guide for the Best Time to Visit Barcelona | Seasons, Things to do, Travel Tips & More

Barcelona is bursting with elegant architecture, fascinating museums and parks. Each month has something unique to offer travelers in Barcelona. Special festivals, food and vibrant events that celebrate Spanish culture, each month overflows with exciting things to do in Barcelona. Here's a complete guide to all you can do in Barcelona across each month.

What's the best time to visit Barcelona?

Seasons in Barcelona

Best Time to visit Barcelona - Spring

Spring

Average Temperature: Mar 9°-16°C | Apr 11°-18°C | May 14°-21°C

Spring in Barcelona is across the months of March, April, and May. Spring has cold winds and occasional rain showers, however spring is the best time to visit Barcelona. You can spend your time in Barcelona visiting landmark attractions, such as Park Guell, drinking Cerveza (beer) and eating calçots, tender green onions which are typically grilled and served with romesco sauce.

Travel Tips: In spring, bring layers of clothing that you can wear/take off during the course of the day and carry an umbrella for unexpected showers.

Best Time to visit Barcelona - Summer

Summer 

Average Temperature: June 18°-26°C | July 21°-27°C | August 22°-27°C

The months of June, July, and August bring with them ample sunshine and warmth. These warm summer months are ideal to head out to the beaches in Barcelona. Grab your Horchata, a staple drink for summer days made with Tiger Nut and enjoy your vacation.

Travel Tips: Check out free outdoor concerts like Musica Als Parcs that takes place across parks in Barcelona.

Barcelona in Summer
Best Time to visit Barcelona - Autumn

Autumn 

Average Temperature: September 17°-26°C | October 17°-23°C | November 12°-18°C

Autumn brings lots of rain in Barcelona through September, October, and November. While it's warm in September, temperatures begin to steadily fall towards November as winter sets in. Remember to check out the Oktoberfest, with exciting activities, traditional food and lots of live music.

Travel Tips: Visit local markets like La Boqueria and Mercat de Santa Caterina, showcasing autumn's bounty of fresh produce and artisanal products.

Best Time to visit Barcelona - Winter

Winter 

Average Temperature: December 9°-15°C | January 9°-15°C | February 8°-15°C

While temperatures can dip during winter, they remain relatively mild, hovering around 8-15°C (46-59°F). The Christmas spirit fills the city as it adorns itself with twinkling lights, and holiday markets, like Fira de Santa Llúcia. Enjoy traditional Catalan dishes like escudella i carn d'olla, a hearty winter stew. With fewer crowds, winter provides a quieter but enchanting experience.

Travel Tips: Don't forget to check out the traditional Christmas markets which are the highlight of Barcelona during winter.

Best time to visit Barcelona: Month on Month Guide

best time to visit barcelona - Barcelona in January

January 

Average Temperature: 9° to 15 °C

While temperatures can be cool, the city embraces the post-holiday season with vibrant events, such as the Cavalcada dels Reis, celebrating the arrival of the Three Kings.

Things to do: Visit landmark attractions like Sagrada Familia, Casa Mila and Casa Vicens

Travel Tips: Bring your shopping list along as city-wide sales start from 7th January.

Barcelona in January Guide
best time to visit barcelona

February 

Average Temperature: 10 to 15 °C

February in Barcelona charms with a mild winter climate, offering a delightful mix of cultural celebrations, including the Santa Eulàlia festivities, and the anticipation of spring in the air.

Things to do: Chinese New Year and the Santa Eulàlia festivities are events celebrated every year.

Travel Tips: Swimming in the sea may not be possible in February, since the water temperature can be as low as 13℃.

Barcelona in February Guide
best time to visit Barcelona

March

Average Temperature: 15° to 20°C

As winter gives way to Spring, in March, Barcelona prepares to host tourists from all over the world. The city calls upon every beer fan to attend its Barcelona Beer Festival which has samples from over 450 beer brands.

Things to do: Head to a pub or nightclub to celebrate St. Patrick's Day on 17 March and enjoy the nightlife in Barcelona.

Travel Tips: March is jam-packed with events and activities, so keep your dates open to and choose events as you learn more about them.

Barcelona in March Guide
Best time to visit Barcelona

April 

Average Temperature: 12° to 18 °C

April in Barcelona welcomes the arrival of spring, gracing the city with blooming flowers, pleasant weather, and a lively atmosphere perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and cultural events.

Things to do: Join Easter celebrations that take place across the city and visit landmark attractions like Park Guell

Travel Tips: Since April is the spring season in Barcelona, make sure you visit the public parks to watch the blooming flowers.

Barcelona in April Guide
best time to visit barcelona

May 

Average Temperature: 16° to 22 °C

May in Barcelona unfolds with warm temperatures, inviting visitors to revel in outdoor activities, vibrant festivals, and to enjoy the beauty of the city's parks and gardens.

Things to do: Visit outdoor attractions like La Rambla, Montjuïc or enjoy Barcelona’s beaches

Travel Tips: Museums in Barcelona stay open till late at night on 18 May which is International Museums Day.

Barcelona in May Guide
best time to visit barcelona

June 

Average Temperature: 22° to 32°C

June in Barcelona heralds the arrival of summer, bringing longer days. Spend days at the beach and evenings on rooftops to enjoy stunning views of the city in June.

Things to do: Join locals in celebrating the summer solstice with bonfires, fireworks, and beach parties on the night of June 23rd.

Travel Tips: Do carry outdoor summer accessories such as hats, sunglasses, flip flops, scarves, and stoles to protect yourself from the sun.

Barcelona in June Guide
best time to visit barcelona

July 

Average Temperature: 24° to 33 °C

July in Barcelona brings sizzling temperatures and a vibrant atmosphere, inviting residents and visitors alike to revel in lively street festivals, outdoor concerts, and the city's famous beach parties.

Things to do: Witness spectacular fireworks displays at Port Vell during the Festa Major celebrations.

Travel Tips: Book all your tickets online to avoid overwhelming lines at popular landmarks like the Sagrada Familia.

Barcelona in July Guide
best time to visit Barcelona

August 

Average Temperature: 24° to 30 °C

August is the height of the tourist season, and the city is bustling. As the temperature rises, more people opt for nights out in Barcelona, creating a bustling atmosphere.

Things to do: August hosts the biggest carnival in Barcelona - Festa Major de Gràcia

Travel Tips: If you're heading out to nightclubs remember to check if the nightclub has a specific dress code since many do in Barcelona

Barcelona in August Guide
September 

September 

Average Temperature: 17° to 26 °C

September is off-season in Barcelona which means there are fewer crowds. The humidity of the summer months starts declining considerably and the weather is perfect for sightseeing.

Things to do: September is your chance to see Catalan traditions during the La Merce Festival.

Travel Tips: A lot of locals get the day off on National Day of Catalonia that happens on 9 September.

Barcelona in September Guide
Best Time to Visit Barcelona

October 

Average Temperature: 14° to 22 °C

October in Barcelona blends cultural celebrations with mild weather, offering a perfect mix for exploring museums, and enjoying the city's vibrant atmosphere.

Things to do: If you enjoy running, participate in or cheer on participants at the Barcelona Marathon, typically held in October.

Travel Tips: October makes for a great time to remain outdoors so you can plan a guided tour on foot to discover local hotspots in the city.

Barcelona in October Guide
Best Time to visit Barcelona

November 

Average Temperature: 12° to 16 °C

November is an exciting month across Europe and especially in Barcelona. Christmas is right around the corner allowing you to enjoy milder temperatures and fewer crowds in cozy cafes.

Things to do: Visit Barcelona Zoo and Barcelona Aquarium with your children, educating them about wildlife conservation.

Travel Tips: November 1 is All Saints Day, many shops and establishments may be closed.

Barcelona in November Guide
Best Time to visit Barcelona

December 

Average Temperature: 12° to 16 °C

Expect gorgeous Christmas markets, colorful decorations and lights all around Barcelona in December. The Christmas spirit fills the air and you will get a chance to be a part of a traditional Spanish Christmas.

Things to do: Celebrate Christmas in Barcelona and ring in the New Year in Barcelona with grand celebrations.

Travel Tips: December 6 is Constitution Day in Spain so a lot of locals get the day off and head to Barcelona making it unusually crowded for December.

Barcelona in December Guide

Hacks & tips to visit Barcelona

  • Invest in Barcelona city passes for discounted entry to major attractions and unlimited public transport.
  • Use the metro system. It's quick, affordable, and connects major landmarks.
  • Beat the crowds by starting your day early, especially when visiting popular attractions like Sagrada Família and Park Güell.
  • Embrace the local culture by enjoying tapas at bustling markets like La Boqueria. It's a tasty way to experience Spanish cuisine.
  • Many museums offer free entry on Sundays, so plan your visits accordingly.
  • Visit Park Güell in the late afternoon to witness stunning sunset views over Barcelona.
  • Visit the charming streets of Barri Gòtic, Barcelona's Gothic Quarter, filled with history, shops, and cafes.
  • While cards are widely accepted, having some cash on hand is useful, especially in smaller establishments.
  • Embrace the local siesta culture by planning your activities around midday breaks when some shops may close.
  • Learn a few basic Catalan or Spanish phrases. 

Frequently asked questions about the best time to visit Barcelona

What is the best time to visit Barcelona?

The best time to visit Barcelona is between May-June when the weather is warm but not too hot and there are a range of festivals and events for you to enjoy.

When is it High Season in Barcelona?

May-September is the high season in Barcelona when you will find the most number of tourists.

What are the hottest months in Barcelona?

July and August are the warmest months, with average temperatures around 28–29 °C

What are the coldest months in Barcelona?

January and February are the coldest months, with average temperatures around 15 °C during the day and 9 °C at night.

When does it rain the most in Barcelona?

October sees the most amount of rain in Barcelona.

What is the best time to go sight-seeing in Barcelona?

April, May, September, and October are the best months to go sight-seeing in Barcelona.

When is Barcelona less crowded?

Barcelona is least crowded during the shoulder seasons of March - April and September - October.

Which time of the year can I get the budget deals in Barcelona?

During the shoulder season (March - April and September - October) and low season (November - Early March) you will get the best budget deals in Barcelona. Book your Barcelona attractions tickets online for the best deals.

What is the best time to go swimming in the beach in Barcelona?

The warmest months for swimming in the sea are July, August and September.

What can I do in Barcelona in Summer?

Visit landmark attractions such as Casa Mila, Barcelona Zoo and Park Guell.

What can I do in Barcelona in Winter?

In winter, immerse yourself in Barcelona's festive charm, visit the Christmas markets, and enjoy the city's holiday lights and delicious Christmas food.

What can I do in Barcelona in Spring?

Visit the many gardens and parks in Barcelona to witness beautiful flowers in bloom, or simply relax at the beach in Barcelona in Spring.

What can I do in Barcelona in Autumn?

Head out to popular attractions like Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo, lounge at the beach or visit cafes in Barcelona in Autumn.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona with kids?

The best time to visit Barcelona with kids is during the shoulder season (March - April and September - October) when the weather is pleasant and there are fewer crowds so it is easier to handle children.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona for couples?

Couples would enjoy some alone time as they stroll through the major landmarks so the best to visit Barcelona would be the shoulder season (March - April and September - October) or the low season (November - Early March) when the crowds are less.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona while travelling solo?

The best time to visit Barcelona while travelling solo would be during the shoulder season (March - April and September - October) to avoid huge crowds and get major discounts on hotels and flights.

What is the best time to visit Barcelona for shopping?

Late January and February is the best time to visit Barcelona for shopping. All the major sales in Barcelona begin in January.