Barcelona Holidays: When is the best time for a Barcelona getaway?

When is the best time to visit Barcelona?

 

 

The fantastic Mediterranean climate of Barcelona, makes it a good year-round destination. Although, depending on the priorities for your holiday, some people may want to avoid the peak temperatures in late July and August, or lower temperatures in mid-winter. The mid-summer heat and humidity is great for a more beach focused holiday but may be less conducive to exploring the city, while slightly lower temperatures and potentially less tourist crowds, may make discovering the city easier and more tranquil.

Being a relatively human-sized city, the best way to discover all its secrets is by walking or cycling, therefore Spring and Autmunn are an excellent choice. During these periods, the temperatures allow for pleasant exploration combined with some beach relaxation. Late summer and early autumn in particular offer long days, pleasant temperatures, a warm sea and numerous events, such as the vibrant city-wide La Mercè festival in late September.

That said, it never gets too cold and there is plenty to see and do in even in the winter months, while also avoiding the heavier tourist influx. Temperatures rarely drop below 10°C during the day, making it still possible to enjoy a glass of sangria by the sea and explore the city's beautiful neighbourhoods in peace and quiet. In December of course, the Catalan capital is suitably decked out in glittering lights, and boasts its share of Christmas markets and festive activities. Our suggestion? Take a stroll through the Fira de Santa Llúcia, an annual fair with multiple exhibitions, shows and an iconic market. Find the perfect Christmas gift for your loved ones. During the grey days, many in-door activities are available from visiting the numerous museums and galleries, indulging in a wine tasting, cooking class or one of the city's spas, do-some shopping in one of the various malls, or even pay a visit to the Aquarium Barcelona.

In the height of summer average temperatures are around it is not uncommon for the mercury fluctuate between 28 and 35°C. This makes bathing in the sea an incredibly enjoyable escape. There is also a lot happening around the city such as the popular Festa Major de Gracia, the open-air Sala Monjuïc cinema, or the Primavera Sound music festival!

 

Why visit Barcelona?

Delicious flavours. Magical sights. Quirky arts. Unique activities. Barcelona never ceases to amaze, is a vibrant city famed for its exceptional architecture, and delicious culinary scene holiday. It is Spain's second largest city after the capital city Madrid, and it is the capital of the northeastern region of Catalonia, known for its unique culture and language. The city provides a unique balance of laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle and seaside vibes, and cosmopolitan happening atmosphere, with rich cultural and artistic heritage and a vibrant culinary scene. Not too mention being placed right between the stunning Costa Brava to the north, and golden Costa Dorada to the south, with stunning and lush mountain scenery when heading inland.

 

What are the best beaches in Barcelona?

 

From sunbathing to watersports, beach games to sipping sangria at a chiringuito beach bar, here are some of the best places to enjoy a beach day in Barcelona:

• Barceloneta: muse of Spanish author Miguel de Cervantès, this beach offers plenty of space to relax, while remaining very close to the city centre. A wide variety of seafood restaurants are available nearby serving authentic paella and other typical dishes.
• Bogatell: set between Nova Icària Beach and Mar Bella Beach, it is a relaxed family-friendly beach with a lovely promenade and with plenty of activities availbale, it sits opposit the trendy and up-and-coming Poblenou neighbourhood, where you’ll find plenty of shopping, eateries, cafes and bars.
• Sant Sebastiá: along side Barceloneta beach, Sant Sebastià beach is the oldest and most westerly beach in the city, it accommodates various sports clubs that offer nautical activities.
• Nova Icària: possibly the most family-friendly beach in the city centre, and has an array of amenities, restaurants & bars etc.
• Castelldefels: in the town of Castelldefels just 20 or so minutes by train south of Barcelona, it is a long, wide beach that runs for about 3 miles with generally shallow, clean water with a host of water activities available there is also a beautiful marina.
• Garraf: located in the charming former fishing village of Garraf, around 30 mintutes by train south of Barcelona, it boasts a lovely sandy cove.

 

What are the best restaurants in Barcelona?

As charming as it is gourmet, Gaudi's citadel proves to be a delicious place to eat. The Catalan capital is brimming with Spanish specialities. On the streets, the aroma of its exquisite cuisine invites you to travel. From tapas to jambon iberico and croquettes, a festival of flavours will delight your taste buds. The Mediterranean gastronomy combines garlic, charcuterie and fish to perfection. All of this, sprinkled with sunshine. Does it make your mouth water? Creative and forward-thinking, the Catalanian capital has a wealth of trendy and excellent restaurants. Here is our recipe for happiness:

• The Tapas Season, a few minutes from the Casa Mila. Tapas both classic and original will delight your palate. A journey of a thousand flavours. Carrer d'Aribau, 125, 08036 Barcelona 
• The Bestial, one of the most beautiful terraces by the sea. Enjoy a tasty seafood dish while gazing at the breathtaking view over the waves. C/ de Ramon Trias Fargas, 2-4, 08005 Barcelona
• The Can Majó, one of the best paellas in the city. The Spanish atmosphere of the place transports you. A colourful escapade! C/ D'Emília Llorca Martín, 23, 08003 Barcelona
• El National, housed in a historic building from the late 19th century. A true gourmet paradise, it has 4 restaurants. Meat, fish and tapas will delight you. Perfect for indulgent diners! Pg. de Gràcia, 24 Bis, 08007 Barcelona
• The Xera Restaurant, a charming address. The traditional dishes reveal the secrets of the Catalan culture. Ibacute;rico ham, patatas "bravas" and paella offer a concert of flavours you won't forget. Carrer de les Sitges, 10, 08001 Barcelona

 

What are the most beautiful parks in Barcelona?

A poetic moment, an enchanting chappe, the parks of Barcelona boast sublime landscapes. Green hills dominate the cosmopolitan city. Boat trips, wonderful flowers and enchanting gardens open the doors to an enchanting world. For a walk, a romantic stroll, or a family lunch, escape from the urban frenzy. The Spanish destination has a lot to offer. Here are the addresses not to be missed:

• Park Güell: one of the masterpieces of Antoni Gaudi, with its singular architecture, world-famous mosaic balconies and fantastic views over the city.
• Parc de la Ciutadella: this large park in the centre of the city, is a poplular place for locals and tourists alike, including musicians, sportsmen and families – it is the ideal place to spend a lazy Sunday.
• Montjuïc: this hill overlooking the sea and city is the former Olympic village, here you will find various attractions such as the Juan Miro Foundation, the ancient Teatre Grec Greek theatre and Montjuïc Castle, with plenty of sports facilities and beautiful lush gardens interspersed in between. There is also the option to take a scenic cable car to the top.  
• Parc del Laberint d'Horta: a little further from the city centre is the less well known Labyrinth Park of Horta, navigate the labyrinth followed by the rest of this magical setting, from the colourful carp-filled pond to small waterfalls.
• Parc del Guinardo: a hidden gem atop a hill overlooking the city, it is actually one of the largest green spaces in Barcelona, with children's areas, historic gardens, a forest, sculptures and fountains. Towards the top are the Carmel bunkers, a civil-war era former bunker with 360º views over the city.

 

What are some unique activities to do in Barcelona?

A holiday in whimsical and innovative Barcelona can be truly eclectic, with a very large and varied mixutre of sights and activities on offer. Here are just a handful of the most unique activities to fill your time:

• Tibidabo Park: an amusement park on top of a hill overlooking the city. Our suggestion, right the small rollercoaster around sunset, and feel like you're flying over the city. There is also a magnificent church alongside the park, The Temple Expiatori del Sagrat Cor, which you can climb to the top of to get an even better view – on a clear day, you can even see the snow-capped Pyrenees.
• Poble Espanyol: literally translated, means Spanish town, it is an open-air architectural/cultural museum built for Barcelona's 1929 world fair, the museum consists of 117 full-scale replica buildings from different regions of Spain, it hosts shows and artisan workshops, and contains a theater, restaurants and bars.
• Camp Nou: a visit to the mythical Barcelona football stadium will reveal its history and that of the Barcelona team in every detail. And while you're there, why not attend a game?
• Aquarium Barcelona: discover a magical underwater world housing over 11,000 animals from across 450 different species, it is one of the top choices for a family days out in Barcelona.
• Port Aventura and adjacent Ferrari Land: if you're looking to get out of the city for a day, then why not head to the largest and most popular amusement park in Spain. Located just an hour south of Barcelona, it consists of two theme parks, a water park, five hotels, and a convention centre. The Shambhala, is the highest roller coaster in Europe. Ferrari Land is a Ferrari-themed amusement park featuring rides, and an interactive gallery on the brand.

Where to go for a night out in Barcelona?

The nightlife in Barcelona, is renowned worldwide, and has something for everyone, from laid back bars to iconic beach clubs, live-music venues to boat parties.

To enjoy a good time while also catching the sun go down, then the previously mentioned Bunkers del Carmel, is a great spot where locals and visitors will bring their own drinks and music while enjoying the view. If visiting Barcelona during spring or summer, try a sunday afternoon/evening at Brunch in the Park, an open-air electronic music party on Montjuic – the actual spot changes depends on the season so make sure you look it up beforehand. 

There are some great bars and clubs to be found all across the city. Some of the best bars, however, can be found in the neighbourhoods of Gracia, Pobe Sec, or the Ciutat Vella (Gothic Quarter, El Born and Raval). When it comes to clubbing, then the iconic beachfront clubs in the Port OIimpic area are a popular choice.

Night time in Barcelona is not only about partying, for example, each year Barcelona celebrates the Night of the Museums, where more than 80 museums and culturally/historically significant buildings will open their doors for free during the evening. Many will offer entry to current exhibitions, guided visits, concerts, and other shows. In summer, there is also the Barcelona Night Tour Bus, offering an unsusual tour of the city by night.

 

What are some of the the best bars in Barcelona?

The city has a plethora of exceptional bars, the options are so many, that you may go from bar to bar without even noticing and they are all diverse. Here is our selection of some must-see Barcelona bars:

• El Paradiso: voted one of the 50 best bars in the world in 2022, you will find this bar hidden behind a refrigerator door of another small unassuming bar. Enjoy fabulous and creative cocktails in the trendy speakeasy. Carrer de Rera Palau, 4, 08003 Barcelona
• El Bosc de les Fades: this café/bar is located adjacent to Barcelona's waxwork museum, as you enter you are immediately transported into an enchanted forest, it is a great place to stop for a drink, young and old. Passatge de la Banca, 7, 08002 Barcelona
• Bar Marsella: it's been over 200 years since this bar was opened in 1820, and it has noticeably not changed since: with its cracked walls and ceiling and dusty chandelier, this absinthe bar was a mandatory stop for bohemians including Picasso and Hemmingway. Carrer de Sant Pau, 65, 08001 Barcelona
• The Orient Express: offeres a unique experience in that the cocktails are made in front of you, then delivered by a model train to your seat, the bar is a cosy and entertaining and the bartenders are attentive and knowledgeable. Don't forget to punch your ticket! Carrer del Comte d'Urgell, 134, 08011 Barcelona
• The Dolce Vitae: located in the Majestic Hotel & Spa, is just one of many of Barcelona's fantastic rooftop terrace bars, although this is one of the more luxurious, with stunning 360-degree views over the city, including of the Sagrada Familia and Montjuic. Pg. de Gràcia, 68, 08007 Barcelona

 

What are the best clubs in Barcelona?

As we have said, Barcelona has a very lively clubbing scene. Whether you like hits of the moment, disco, rock, electro, techno, salsa or reggaeton, you can find what you're looking for in the Catalan capital! Here are just a few suggestions:

• Bling Bling: a chic venue with an exclusive atmosphere, that attracts the most glamorous in the city. Carrer de Tuset, 8, 08006 Barcelona
• Opium Mar: one of the best known nightclubs in the city, it often hosts world-famous DJs. Passeig Marítim, 34, 08003 Barcelona
• Sutton: located in the Gracía neighbourhood, with a chic vibe similar to Bling Bling. Calle Tuset, 13, 08006 Barcelona
• L'Apolo: one of the oldest dance halls in Europe, it embraces all musical genres: rock, pop, indie, house and techno and so many other surprises. Carrer Nou de la Rambla, 113, 08004 Barcelona
• Razzmatazz: a super club containing five different club spaces in one massive warehouse-style building, more relaxed and with no dress-code, you can find it all at Razz. Some of the best international and local bands, singers and DJs have played here over the years, both before and after becoming world stars. Carrer de Pamplona, 88, 08018 Barcelona

 

What are the best museums in Barcelona?

 

The Catalan capital enjoys a rich heritage and has historically, just as today, been home to a diverse artistic and architechural scene. The countless museums and galleries of all sorts, spread throughout the city, boast thousands of diverse exhibitions. From wacky works of art to exquisite chocolate sculptures, singular architectural achievements to intriguing objects and famous paintings, the museums of Barcelona never cease to arouse the curiosity of travellers. It is impossible to be bored here. Even when the days are rainy. From Picasso to Banksy to science, a wide range of cultural visits are on offer. A true paradise for art lovers, here are some must-see addresses:

• Picasso Museum: it was in Barcelona that Spain's greatest artist spent his formative years and he maintained a strong affintiy for the city, some of his best works are on display here. Carrer de Montcada, 15-23, 08003 Barcelona
• CosmoCaixa: this science museum is a fun and fascinating venue designed to nurture the scientific spirit of its visitors. Tropical forests, a planetarium and interactive experiments promise to entertain the whole family. Carrer d'Isaac Newton, 26, 08022 Barcelona
• National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC): located in the majestic Palais de Montjuïc, admire its fabulous collection of Romanesque art. Palau Nacional, Parc de Montjuïc, s/n, 08038 Barcelona
• The Chocolate Museum: for those with a sweet tooth, switch it up with this unique and tasty musuem and its mouth-watering cocoa sculptures! Carrer del Comerç, 36, 08003 Barcelona
• The Moco: an offshoot of its namesake in Amsterdam, this independent museum displays a wide range of inspiring modern, contemporary, and street art – including works by Banksy, Warhol, Dalí, Damien Hirst, David LaChapelle, Basquiat and Keith Haring. Carrer de Montcada, 25, 08003 Barcelona

 

What are the must-see landmarks in Barcelona?

There is so much to see in Barcelona that even if you come for a weeklong holiday, you will struggle to scratch the surface of everything the city has to offer. The city boasts some truly fantastic monuments, from famous squares like the Plaça Reial to quirky buildings like the Casa Batlló, the red-brick Arc de Triomphe to the Columbus Monument, or the impressive Sagrada Familia and the Basilica de Santa Maria de la Mar. Around every corner hides more extraordinary streets and architecture. Our recommendation? Wear some comfortable shoes! Here are some of the must-see wonders:

• Sagrada Familia: contruction began on Gaudí's masterpiece in the 1880s, and continues to this day. Though in unfinished, it is a stunning sight with a fascinating story. Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona
• Casa Batlló: another of Gaudí's most famous works, here you will be drawn into into the magical sea-inspired universe of his imagination. The shell-shaped roof, undulating balconies, an explosion of colours and all the fine details of this fabulous building will delight. sea bed. Pg. de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona
• Barcelona Cathedral: located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter in the old town, this is a magnificent masterpiece of Catalan Gothic architecture. Pla de la Seu, s/n, 08002 Barcelona
• Basilica of Santa Maria de la Mar: also located in the historical centre of the city, is a church dedicated to sailors, and is a symbol of the city's medieval period. Plaça de Santa Maria, 1, 08003 Barcelona
• Arc de Triomf: also built for the 1888 World Expo as a gateway into the event, it is an impressive sight with its red bricks and strong Moorish influence.
• Torre Glòries: or formerly the Torre Agbar, is an iconic  38-story skyscraper. Illuminated at night in a plethora of changing colours, it marks the gateway to the city's new technological district. It is an award-winning energy efficient smart building, the exterior facade is covered with solar panels, and it also makes use of groundwater.

What are the best neighbourhoods in Barcelona?

Barcelona has numerous neighbourhoods, usually refered to locallay as "barrios", both old and new. Most of the city's barrios have their own unique character. Here are some of the key areas:

• Gothic Quarter: the oldest part of the city it forms part of the area known as the Ciutat Vella (Old Town), it enjoys a festive atmosphere with many sights and attractions, boutiques, bars and restaurants to be found here.
• Born: also forming part of the Ciutat Vella, this trendy barrio contains many quaint old streets and multiple Gothic churches, you're sure to be carried away by the bohemian atmosphere.
• Poblenou: this up-and-coming a neighbourhood, full of charm, is ideal for families, with plenty to do and see, including numerous art galleries, and is also close to the beachfront.
• Eixample: this large bourgeois neighbourhood stretches across the city with an eclectic mix of architectural styles and numerous shops, bars and restaurants.
• Gràcia: this former village that was swallowed up by Barcelona many years ago, still feels like a separate entity, with a special, intimate charm. Though most neighbourhood have their own yearly "Festa Major" street festival, the "Festa Major de Gràcia"  is perhaps the most iconic.

  

What to do on a romantic holiday in Barcelona?

It might be often claimed that Paris is the City of Love, but Barcelona can surely hold's its own in this regard. From lazily wandering, hand-in-hand, through the old-world streets of the Gothic Quarter to cosying up in tapas bar, there's many ways to enjoy the city as a couple.

When it comes to food, try the iconic bustling Bar del Pla, or more more intimate atmostphere, Casa Lolea (with its excellent sangria), or the charming and cosy Elsa y Fred. Just off the prestigious Paseo de Gracia, there is El Nacional, a former parking lot transformed into a stylish multi-space bar, market, restaurant with stunning modernist décor. Alternatively, on Montjuïc hill, there is the romantic Martínez bar and restaurant with is panoramic terrace where you can enjoy year-round al fresco dining. For a lovely breakfast, head to the trendy Sant Antoni neighbourhood, especially along the popular Carrer del Parlament street, such as Federal Café, or the Café Cometa.

Flamenco might come traditionally from the south of Spain, however, it has spread to all corners of the country. There are plenty of flamenco bars to choose from, however, an excellent choice is the Tablao de Carmen in the Poble Espanyol. Going to see show at the beautiful Palau de la Musica Catalana offers a very special romantic moment in a very majestic palace. 

A romantic holiday to Barcelona does not have to be limited to the city itself, The Catalan capital is lucky to be surrounded by some of the most stunning areas in Spain. The Costa Brava, with its beautiful mix of mountains and the sea is located just to the north, with charming towns such as Roses or Cadaques. And the Costa Dorada is located just to the south including towns such as Sitges and Altafulla. In all directions there are plenty of luxurious hotels to choose from, many with dedicated wellness areas and gourmet restaurants.

Catalonia is well-known for its wines, and weather for a multi-day excursion or a day-trip, a wine tasting makes for an incredible romantic activity. We suggest heading to the Priorat area, known in particular for its dry red wines, in the province of Tarragona, or the Penedes area, in the provice of Barcelona, known for its cavas.

With so much choice, it can be a daunting task to choose the best hotel for your romantic escape. Here are a few of our suggestions:

• Hotel 1898: located on La Rambla this lovingly restored 19th-century building houses a charming four-star hotel, with elegant a cosy rooms, a rooftop pool and a sun terrace. Sit back with a jug of sangria, a panoramic view, and you and your partner have everything you need for the night! La Rambla, 109, 08002 Barcelona
• Cotton House Hotel: is a hidden five-star gem, right in the heart of Barcelona's Eixample district. It blends stylish contemporary chic with cosy and comfortable interior, and superb amenities, including an excellent restaurant in a beautiful glass conservatory, and a relaxing rooftop pool. Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, 670, 08010 Barcelona
• Kimpton Vividora Barcelona: situated in the famous Gothic Quarter in central Barcelona, its architecture and design accentuate the historic surroundings. This boutique hotel offers a fusion of contemporary luxury with artistic spirit, in a relaxing yet vibrant cocoon, just steps from the city’s breath-taking attractions. Carrer del Duc, 15, 08002 Barcelona
• Casa Mathilda: a family-run home away from home in the city centre, this hotel offers a tranquil and intimate ambience, with subtle colours and tasteful decoration throughout, cosy rooms and a beautiful sunlit terrace. Carrer de Roger de Llúria, 125, 127, 08037 Barcelona

 

What to do on a family holiday in Barcelona?

Barcelona makes for a wonderful family holiday destination year-round, from the lively beaches, abundant parks and playgrounds, to numerous museums, aquariam and zoo. We've already talked about the family-friendly beaches, with plethora of activites available. One fun family activity is to rent bikes, roller blades, or electric scooters, and travel the length of the beach promenade. The cuisine in Barcelona is also generally very family-friendly with tapas being a finger-food, then there are plenty of places serving sweet treats, from ice cream parlors to the traditional Xurros (churros) vendors, if you don't know, these are delicious deep-fried dough sticks, served with thick hot dipping chocolate – yum! Things to do with kids in Barcelona:

• Parc de la Ciutadella: aside from plenty of space to play, relax and enjoy a picnic, this park has its boating lake where you can rent out pedalos, an extravagant fountain with water-spouting dragon statues, and a lifesized mammoth statue. It is also home to Barcelona Zoo a great place to visit with the kids.
• Parc Güell: this famous Gaudí designed park full of quirky stone structures, colourful mosaics, including a bench in the form of a sea serpent, a one of a salamander is not only a must-see sight, but one that will entertain the little ones too.
• Montjuic: this hill is covered in the parks and playgrounds, and the cable-car offers a fun, easy and panoramic way to reach the top, where the 18th-century castle can be found. There is also the family-friendly public outdoor swimming pool, built for the 1992 Olympics, with views over the city. At the base of the hill there is also the famous and free Magic Fountain sound-and-light show.
• Tibidabo Amusement Park: this small old-fashioned amusement park, set atop the Tibidamo hill offers stunning views over the city and has fairground rides, a small rollercoaster and surreal museum of automatons. A fun way to reach the park at the top of the hill is to take the a ride on the vintage Tramvia Blau (blue tram), followed by the funicular.
• CosmoCaixa: this brilliant science museum is full of hands-on exhibits, and has a 3D planetarium, and incredible 1,000 m² living recreation of an Amazonian rainforest, with live birds, snakes, insects, fish and capybaras. Carrer d'Isaac Newton, 26, 08022 Barcelona
• Museu Xocolata: we've mentioned it before, but the chocolate sculptures at the museum are sure to delight the little ones, and the café and shop sell delicious pastries and chocolated-based treats. You can also sign up the kids, or whole family, to a chocolate workshop. Carrer del Comerç, 36, 08003 Barcelona

Here are some of our suggestions for family friendly hotels in Barcelona:

• Midtown Apartments: a luxurious home-from-home in the heart Barcelona, the majestic 19th-century façade hides 30 luxurious apartments, a brilliant family option with all the space and modern necessities any family could need. There is also a rooftop pool and sun deck. Carrer de Casp, 35, 08010 Barcelona
• Hotel Novotel Barcelona City: at this stylish four-star hotel with plenty to offer for all ages, children under the age of 16 stay for free. There's a gym, hammam, and roof terrace with bar and outdoor pool, along with a children's pool and an indoor soft play area. It is near Glòries Shopping Centre, a short walk from the Sagrada Familia, and a 20 minutes from the beach. Av. Diagonal, 201, 08018 Barcelona
• Hilton Diagonal Mar Barcelona: this four-star hotel is ideally located just 5 minutes walk from the beach, and right next to the Diagonal Mar Shopping Centre. It has an outdoor pool, sauna and paddling pool on the hotel’s rooftop terrace, with stunning views of the sea. Though a little further out, a metro from the nearby station takes only 15 minutes or so to reach the centre. Pg. del Taulat, 262, 264, 08019 Barcelona