September is considered as shoulder season in Barcelona, when the city adopts a serene and mellow vibe. It's an ideal time for sightseeing and cultural immersion, as crowds are thinner and the atmosphere is peaceful. Festivals like La Mercè light up the city with music, fireworks, and joy, enhancing the experience. Iconic attractions are easily accessible without the worry of heavy tourist traffic, and the beaches are perfect for relaxation. It’s also an optimal time to explore nearby towns. If you're planning a trip to Barcelona in September, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know for a memorable visit.
What makes Barcelona in September special?
Fantastic Fall Weather – As September arrives, Barcelona transitions into the charm of fall. While the city may not boast the vivid hues of autumn foliage, its mild temperatures and sunny days create an inviting atmosphere for visitors.
Outdoor fun – The agreeable climate beckons outdoor enthusiasts to embrace the day. Whether it's swimming in the sea or soaking up the sun for that quintessential Catalonian glow, there's ample opportunity to revel in nature's offerings. Embark on excursions to Montserrat and Girona, or wander through the historic quarters of the Gothic Quarter and La Ramblas.
Season of Festivals – September in Barcelona unfolds a tapestry of festivals. Lively celebrations spill onto the streets, transforming into vibrant parties adorned with music, dance, fireworks, and parades.
Barcelona In September Weather
Barcelona in September witnesses the end of summer and temperatures start decreasing, with average day time temperatures around 79°F/26°C and the lows dropping to 68°F/20°C. Rain is a rare occurrence and you will experience sunny days throughout the month. The sea temperature is around 75°F/24°C which means you can still enjoy dips in the sea and take part in water sports.
Barcelona in September: Things to do
1
Sagrada Familia
Sagrada Familia is one of most recognisable landmarks in Barcelona and finds itself listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Under construction for more than 130 years, it is known for its surreal architectural style. Antoni Gaudi has designed the church with his trademark style of mixing nature and the Bible.
September Timings
Monday to Friday: 9am to 8pm
Saturdays: 9am to 6pm
Sundays: 10:30am to 8pm
Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
2
Park Güell
What started off as a housing community for the bourgeois has now become a park for all! Park Güell was designed by Antoni Gaudi and features some of his best works in the form of futuristic and animist architecture. In September, the queues are shorter and a pleasure to walk around the park.
September Timings
Daily: 9.30am to 6pm
08024 Barcelona, Spain
Getting There ›
3
Poble Espanyol
Located atop Montjuic, Poble Espanyol was created to introduce Spanish and Catalan culture and heritage to the world at the Barcelona International Exhibition in 1929. Today, it has become a cultural village with replicas of iconic Spanish buildings, exhibitions, workshops and shows to educate visitors about Spanish history.
September Timings
Tuesday to Sunday: 10am to 12am
Monday: 10am to 8pm
Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, 08038
Barcelona, Spain
Getting There ›
4
Barcelona Zoo
The Barcelona Zoo is a great place to bring the kids and being an open-air space, September is a good time to explore it. The zoo is home to hundreds of animals including Komodo Dragons, Gorillas, Hippopotamus, Giraffe, Elephant, Lion, and Tiger, giving you a peek of biodiversity across the world.
September Timings
Daily: 10am to 8pm
Parc de la Ciutadella, 08003 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
5
Flamenco Show
Flamenco is a traditional Catalan fast-paced dance that involves fast beats, swift movements and expressive dancers. You will not be able to stop moving your feet to the rhythm! Catch a Flamenco show at one of the famous venues - Tablao Cordobés Flamenco Show, Barcelona Flamenco Olé Show, or Barcelona Flamenco Pasion Show.
95HF+JW Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
6
Casa Milà
The grey facade of Casa Milà intrigues you with its quirky architecture and is simply a precursor of the treasures within. It was the last residential building designed by Antoni Gaudi and is a masterpiece in community living. Everything from the staircase to the terrace is worth a look!
September Timings
Day tour: 9am to 8pm
Night tour: 9pm to 11pm
Provença, 261-265, 08008 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
7
PortAventura World
Portaventura World is your childhood dream come true! One of the best amusement parks in Barcelona, it has three venues – Caribe Aquatic Park, Portaventura Park and Ferrari Land. September weather is perfect for staying outdoors all day and enjoying the crazy rides without breaking into a sweat!
September Timings
Daily 10.30am to 10.30pm
Port Aventura Park, Barcelona
Spain
Getting There ›
8
Casa de Punxes
Is it a castle? Is it an apartment block? The Casa de Punxes was built as a home for the Terradas Brutau family by Josep Puig I Cadafalch in 1905. The iconic building is constructed in the modernist style and includes medieval elements like the red conical tops with tall spires.
September Timings
Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Friday: 9am to 6pm
Avinguda Diagonal, 420, Barcelona
Spain
Getting There ›
Barcelona in September: Events to look out for
Diada Nacional de Catalunya
11 September 2024
The National Day of Catalonia is both a poignant reminder of the independence struggles of the region of Catalonia, as well as a celebration of the Catalan identity. People spill out on the streets waving the Catalan flag and professing their love for the region.
Festa Major del Poblenou 2024
6 - 15 September 2024
Poblenou is an exciting neighbourhood in Barcelona and hosts its own annual festival. The festival features art, culture and includes exhibitions, shows, parades and traditional Catalan rituals like correfoc and human towers. The highlight of the festival is the ‘castell de focs’ a fireworks display by the beach.
La Mercè Festival in Barcelona
20 - 24 September 2024
La Mercè Festival in Barcelona is a vibrant celebration of culture and tradition. Held annually, this dynamic event honors the city's patron saint, featuring lively parades, music, dance, and artistic performances. With street parties and dazzling fireworks, it's a captivating immersion into Catalan heritage and a true reflection of Barcelona's spirit.
Festival•B 2024
27 - 29 September, 2024
Festival•B marks an encounter with the music of the future, standing as Barcelona's foremost platform for emerging musical trends and alternative sounds. This distinctive festival not only embraces the latest fads but also captures the essence of the music scene's unconventional side.
Barcelona in September : 5-day Itinerary
1
Barcelona Essentials
Barcelona Weather in September
Summer is ending and Barcelona heralds the onset of fall or autumn as the rest of the world knows it. However, due to its location near the ocean temperatures don’t drop drastically and hover around 79°F/26°C. Days get shorter over the month, you will experience 13 hours of daylight in the first week, dwindling down to 12 hours.
Where to Stay in Barcelona During September
If you are visiting Barcelona for the first time, it is ideal to stay in these areas of Eixample, El Born, Gothic Quarter or Poble Nou (Near the beach). If you love the nightlife, stay close to Poble Sec, Gracia, or Barceloneta. Here is our pick of best hotels for every budget and style–
What to Pack for Visiting Barcelona in September
In September, Barcelona boasts delightful weather, perfect for showcasing your finest wardrobe selections without concern for rain. Remember to include full-length attire for visiting churches. With its vibrant nightlife, packing your most elegant outfits is advisable if you plan to frequent upscale establishments. Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and beach essentials for beach excursions, and ensure you have comfortable walking shoes as exploring Barcelona on foot is highly recommended!
Getting Around Barcelona in September
Barcelona, a sprawling metropolis, boasts a robust and dependable public transportation network, much like many other European cities. Opting for a Hola BCN Pass is highly recommended, as it grants access to all modes of transport within the city, saving both time and local currency. The metro emerges as the most economical and expedient mode of travel, with an extensive network comprising 156 stations and 24 suburban stops. While buses are convenient for short distances, they are susceptible to traffic congestion. However, for night owls and party enthusiasts, the night bus service operates until 5 AM, serving as a convenient lifeline.
Barcelona in September - Must Try Delicacies
Summer might be on its way out in Barcelona in September, but one dish that is perfect for sunny al-fresco lunches is Esqueixada. The salad dish is made from shredded salted cod, a traditional Catalan ingredient, tomatoes, onions, bell peppers and drizzled generously with olive oil.
Where to eat: Traverna El Glop
A favourite of Catalonians, this dish essentially means sausage and beans. The dish uses botifarra or pork sausage made with spices and is grilled and served with cooked white beans. It is simple, meaty and wholesome, ideal for comfort food!
Where to eat: Restaurant Romesco
Get ready to get your hands messy for this traditional Catalan dish! Calçots are a winter food but thanks to their popularity you can find them, the rest of the year as well. Calçots are essentially sweet green onions that are charred and eaten with a romesco sauce (tomatoes, almonds, garlic.
Where to eat: Restaurant Carmen
If you are looking for traditional homely dishes in Spain then look no further than the Escudella. This dish is a stew made with vegetable broth and dunked with a pilota or a meatball that is spiced with parsley and garlic. Pasta or rice is added to this to make this a wholesome meal.
Where to eat: Terra de Escudella
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