In Barcelona during autumn, you can forget about the stifling heat and the usual summer crowds. The Catalan capital transforms into a quieter and more welcoming place, with a cultural agenda just as packed as ever. Moreover, the warm hues tint the parks and squares, giving the city a special charm that you won’t be able to enjoy at other times of the year.
So, if you’re thinking of taking a getaway to Barcelona, autumn is the perfect season, and we have four strong reasons for you to do so.
#1 The weather in Barcelona in autumn is a stroke of luck
Looking for pleasant weather with mild temperatures? Well, you’re in luck because typical autumn weather in Barcelona is enjoyable and warm, although the fine print says it can also be somewhat cloudy and rainy.
So, when does autumn start in Barcelona? It runs from the end of September until the last week of December, with the exact dates depending on the equinox. However, September in Barcelona is still warm enough to wear summer clothes, just adding a jumper or jacket in the mornings and after sunset.
As the weeks pass and December approaches, the temperatures gradually drop. To give you an idea, autumn temperatures in Barcelona range from 10°C to 23°C. Oh! And keep in mind that the wind chill can feel different from what the thermometer shows; being a coastal city with higher humidity due to its proximity to the sea, it might feel colder than it actually is.
Although Barcelona is a city where it generally doesn’t rain much, autumn is one of the seasons with more rainfall, especially in October and November. So, in addition to a jumper or jacket, don’t forget your umbrella. It rains an average of seven days a month, but don’t worry—there are hardly any full days of rain; showers are usually intermittent and rarely ruin your plans.
Convinced by the autumn weather in Barcelona? We’re not surprised: you’ll avoid the sweltering summer heat and, at the same time, dodge the winter chill. Just make sure to pack a few layers of clothing, an umbrella, and be ready to explore the city and enjoy its great cultural calendar and attractions.
#2 Barcelona in autumn is full of events and festivals
Autumn in Barcelona is the cradle of countless events and festivals. From Oktoberfest, where you can enjoy live music, DJs, and a good stein of beer as if you were in the heart of Bavaria, to the Sitges Film Festival, dedicated to fantasy and horror films, which transforms the town into a paradise for film lovers.
If you’re into cinema, don’t miss the L’Alternativa Independent Film Festival, which kicks off in mid-November. It usually offers fresh and alternative content, with a programme that includes everything from short films to feature-length ones.
And there’s more! If you love architecture, the 48H Open House Barcelona opens the doors to the city’s most emblematic and traditional buildings, many of which are normally closed to the public. Imagine exploring palaces in the Gothic Quarter or getting a different view of the Arc de Triomf. In autumn, Barcelona makes it possible.
Speaking of tradition, in autumn (and throughout Catalonia), there’s one that can’t be missed: the famous Castanyada. During All Saints’ Day — 1st November — it’s typical to enjoy roasted chestnuts and panellets, small marzipan cakes found all over the city. Plus, the streets fill with flower stalls, creating a festive atmosphere quite different from what you’ll experience elsewhere in Spain.
And if you’re into comics and manga, you’re in luck, too! The Manga Fair also takes place in autumn in Barcelona. You can check out the latest releases and participate in activities and conferences with many authors.
As you can see, autumn in Barcelona is packed with plans for everyone. Which one’s your favourite?
#3 Barcelona's autumn cuisine is just as delicious
If you’re coming to Barcelona in autumn thinking that the best time for the city’s food is summer, you’re mistaken. In autumn, the city enjoys a true festival of flavours, aromas, and experiences. It’s also the perfect season to fully enjoy wine tourism; there are plenty of opportunities for wine lovers, but autumn coincides with the grape harvest, making it even more special.
There are numerous wineries scattered around the region, but the most famous is Can Calopa, located in Collserola Park, where you can enjoy a wine tasting and get closer to the fascinating world of viticulture and the grape harvest.
Additionally, Barcelona is full of wine bars like Vinya del Senyor and specialised shops like Vila Viniteca or El Petit Celler, where experts will help you find your ideal wine. Many restaurants also offer wine pairings and menus that enhance their gastronomic offerings with a selection of the best local wines and cavas. So, if you want to enjoy a good lunch or dinner paired with the perfect wine or sip the famous Barcelona cava, this is a plan you can’t miss.
And as for flavours, autumn in Barcelona is abundant, featuring stews like fricandó with mushrooms, pumpkin soup, and various dishes with mushrooms, sweet potatoes, chestnuts, and berries, the true stars of the season. You’ll be able to sample them in many restaurants in the Gràcia district or at the city’s markets such as La Boqueria, Sant Antoni, or El Ninot.
#4 Barcelona’s top attractions in autumn
Wondering what Barcelona’s tourist attractions are like in autumn? The answer is simple: just like the rest of the year but with fewer crowds. The city continues to offer tickets, excursions, and guided tours to its main attractions, such as the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera, and the Barcelona History Museum. However, be aware that most of them adjust their opening hours with the arrival of autumn.
For example, the Tibidabo amusement park, which offers spectacular views of the city and plenty of attractions, shifts from being open almost daily (Wednesday to Sunday) to only opening on weekends and public holidays. So whatever you want to visit in Barcelona in autumn, make sure to check the opening hours to avoid any surprises.
Are you coming to Barcelona this autumn?
Barcelona in autumn has a lot to offer: pleasant weather, a packed cultural agenda, delicious gastronomy, and the city’s main attractions and streets are at their best with fewer tourists. This means exploring the Gràcia district or strolling through the Eixample will be even more enjoyable.
But don’t get too relaxed. You’ll still need to book your tickets and, in general, your trip in advance. And we can help with accommodation! At Key Barcelona, we have plenty of apartments, houses, and flats with all kinds of amenities to make your autumn trip to Barcelona a reality. Check out our website to explore everything we can offer at Key Barcelona.
