Barcelona is one of the most popular destinations in Europe, especially during the summer months. With its warm Mediterranean climate, stunning beaches and vibrant urban life, the city offers an infinite number of great things to see and do to make the most of your holiday.
In this post, we’re going to tell you what to see and do in Barcelona in summer thanks to the mild temperatures you’ll find here in a cosmopolitan city with plenty of great beaches, which visitors can make the most of all the way up to October. We’ve tried to include things for all types of visitors, including families, single travellers, couples, friends, and more. We hope you find our recommendations useful for enjoying a city full of possibilities!
Barcelona beaches
You can’t leave Barcelona without stepping foot on one of its famous stretches of sand. The most popular is Barceloneta, found near the city centre, which only adds to its appeal. The beach is perfect for those looking to enjoy some sun and sea – perhaps combining an afternoon on the sand with some earlier plans in the city centre – where you’ll find a wide range of restaurants, bars and beach bars to sample some of the local cuisine.
Another very popular beach is Bogatell, ideal for those who prefer a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. With vast areas dedicated to sunbathing and watersports, it’s an excellent option for switching off and just enjoying a day at the shore.
Playa de la Mar Bella is also highly appreciated for its various facilities for the perfect day at the beach, including children’s play areas and a watersports centre, volleyball courts, basketball courts, public toilets, watchtowers, a naturist beach, and more.
If you want to explore a little further beyond the city itself, there are several great beaches near Barcelona that are well worth a visit. Take a look at our blog post on beaches outside Barcelona for more information.
Discover other summer activities in Barcelona
In addition to enjoying its beaches, summer in Barcelona offers a wide variety of activities. We recommend visiting Park Güell, designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, or strolling through the charming streets of the Gothic Quarter. For live music lovers, in August we have El Mas i Mas Festival. From May 4th to November 27th, you can attend 24 performances by national and international artists in venues such as Jamboree 1 and 3, Paral·lel 62, Sala Apolo, and La Paloma, featuring a range of styles from Jazz, Blues, Soul, Flamenco, Afrobeat, Afro-Cuban music, and more.
For food lovers, Barcelona offers endless options, from delicious tapas at La Boquería to sophisticated dishes in Michelin-starred restaurants. You can’t miss trying a refreshing horchata or a tinto de verano on a terrace with sea views.
Families with kids will find Barcelona to be the perfect destination for family-friendly plans. You can choose adventures like visiting the Barcelona Aquarium, where they can discover marine life, or heading to the Tibidabo Amusement Park to enjoy incredible shows and rides inspired by different countries just an hour and a half away. Another great option is the immersive FC Barcelona Tour. At the Cosmocaixa Museum, there are several family activities, as well as at the Natural Science Museum of Barcelona, where workshops fill the summer agenda.
In short, Barcelona is the perfect destination for an unforgettable summer vacation. With its stunning beaches and a wide range of activities, there’s always something to do in Barcelona during the summer. Get ready for your trip and enjoy everything this wonderful city has to offer!
