Barcelona may be a popular summer city getaway, but we’d argue that September is the best time to visit. Forget overcrowding and overheating and enjoy the empty shorelines and cooler climate that follow August’s summer rush. Not convinced? We’ve narrowed down a list of reasons to visit Barcelona in September. If you’re after a peaceful trip, look no further than the city’s vast stretches of sand, tranquil green gardens and winding alleys. For a livelier taste of the city, this month also offers excellent al fresco dining, outdoor market stalls and rooftop wine tasting. And, of course, September marks the beginning of Barcelona’s buzzing festival season. Read on for some inspiration for your next city break…
Uncrowded beaches
A visit to the beach might not be your top priority when planning an autumnal Barcelona trip, but it should be. Avoid the busy summer months and enjoy empty September sands; with temperatures reaching highs of 27°C, a balmy beach day is still very much on the cards. Stroll beside the sea on the popular Barceloneta Beach in the Ciutat Vella district, or dive into the shimmering waters of the family-friendly Bogatell Beach, sitting pretty between Mar Bella and Nova Icaria. At Barcelona's beaches, you can enjoy everything from canoeing and sailing to dining and dancing in the waterfront bars.
Peaceful parks
Next up on our list of reasons to visit Barcelona in September is the spacious parks. With the summer crowds now a thing of the past, grab a tasty snack from Boqueria Market and find a sunny spot to relax in one of Barcelona’s many green spaces. Head to Labyrinth Park (Barcelona’s oldest gardens) in the Horta neighbourhood to uncover hidden sculptures and elegant fountains or stick to the city centre and wander around Ciutadella Park’s waterfall and museum. In the mood for a climb? Head to Montjuic Park, where you’ll find a 17th-century hilltop castle and sweeping views over the city.
Artistic architecture
Take advantage of September’s cooler climate and discover Barcelona’s beautiful buildings on foot. Antonio Gaudi’s iconic architecture is a must-see; stroll past Casa Batllo and Casa Mila (a UNESCO World Heritage site) or step inside the Sagrada Familia to admire the vibrant stained glass windows, soaring vaulted ceilings and tree-like columns which resemble a forest canopy. If you want to delve further into the city’s historical past, stretch your legs on a private walking tour of Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter – once a favourite hangout for Palo Picasso, who spent his formative years here.
The food
Explore Barcelona’s corner cafes and tasty market stalls while it’s still warm enough to eat outside. Stroll through Sant Antoni Market for fresh fruit and vegetables, or head to Barceloneta Market if you love seafood delicacies. If you’re in need of a tapas fix, don’t miss a private tour of the city’s best tapas bars, where you can sample delicious dishes like pimientos de padron, patatas bravas, croquetas and much more. Fancy yourself a skilled chef? See what Catalan dishes you can rustle up during a cooking class, or head to the Gracia neighbourhood’s family-run restaurants if the kitchen gets too hot.
Wine-tasting
September marks the beginning of the wine harvest season in Barcelona. This is the ideal time of year to tour the city's trendiest bars or venture further afield to explore the top wineries in the region. Raise your glass in the rooftop bars near Plaza Catalunya or sip wine on Barceloneta's outdoor terraces. Want to try some of Spain’s finest cava? Head to the Penedes region, just an hour south of the city, and sip your way through its famous wine route, tasting some of the country’s most iconic sparkling wines.
Festival season
Last up on our list of reasons to visit Barcelona in September is the vibrant festivals. Bursting with colour, culture and creativity, no city knows how to throw a party quite like Barcelona. Jump into the parades of La Festa Major del Poblenou, where music, dancing, and art fill the streets or hold on for La Merce Festival in the second half of the month. With religious origins, this annual festival is one of the city’s most important events. Theatrical performers and excitable locals take to the cobblestone streets and the celebrations culminate in a fireworks display at the end of the month that you won’t want to miss.
Written by Amy Larsen
