Barcelona in August: Weather, Things to Do, Where to Go 2024

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I’ve been living in Barcelona for the past few years, and I’ve spent many Augusts here. Believe me when I say that it’s an incredible experience; there’s a reason why Barcelona is one of the most popular travel destinations in Europe in the summer. 

The weather in Barcelona during August is hot, sunny, and has some of the lowest rainfalls of the year. This makes it the perfect time to get out and enjoy the beaches and parks in Catalan capital. 

As someone who lives here year-round—and loves it—I can tell you that there are few places better than Barcelona in August. The peak tourist season brings fun crowds, activities, and festivals. 

With perfect beach temperatures, plenty of attractions to explore both inside and outside the city limits, delicious local cuisine to savor and friendly locals welcoming tourists from around the world—there’s no better time than now to experience this stunning city firsthand! 

🌎View the best of Barcelona with a guided tour of Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, and Casa Batllo ↗

Plus, the morning hikes around Barcelona are gorgeous and perfect for getting in touch with nature before taking part in all the fun terrace parties and outdoor clubs to enjoy during this season.

Weather in Barcelona in August

Here are the average temperatures and rainfall in August so you know what to expect for your trip!

Average Temperatures in August

The weather in Barcelona is warm and sunny in August. Plus, there’s very little rainfall. This makes August one of the most pop

• Average high in August: 85 °F / 29 °C
• Average low in August: 74 °F / 23 °C

Average Rainfall in August

August is the least rainy month in Barcelona, with an average of just 1 inch of rain, on average. This makes it an ideal time for beach days, sightseeing and other outdoor activities. Despite the heat, thanks to the cool sea breezes, August is a great time to explore the city’s attractions and take in its unique culture.

• Average rainfall in August in Barcelona: 1.1 in (26.7 mm) 
• What are the rainy months in Barcelona? On average, March sees about 3 inches of rain, while September to November typically have 3-4 inches per month, making them the rainiest months in Barcelona.
• What is the rainiest month in Barcelona? Barcelona experiences the highest rainfall in October, with an average of 3.5 inches (90 mm). The second highest rainfall is in March, with 3 inches (76 mm).

Most Unique Things to do in Barcelona in August

Take a look at all the incredible outdoor (and indoor) things to do in Barcelona Spain in August. Any Barcelona in August reddit thread will tell you you can’t go wrong by visiting during this summer month.

Ride through the whole city with a Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Tour

1. Wine Tours

A wine tour in Barcelona is a great way to experience the local culture while indulging in some of the best wines Spain has to offer. 

With expert guides, you can learn all about the different varieties of Spanish wines, as well as sample various flavors and learn more about the winemaking process. Plus, you’ll get an insider’s look at some of Barcelona’s most iconic vineyards. August is the perfect time to refresh with some local cavas (sparkling wine). 

Make the most of Barcelona with a Wine Tour and Tasting with a Sommelier ↗

2. Sail through the Mediterranean on a Catamaran

August is the perfect time to take a sailing cruise in Barcelona. The warm breeze from the Mediterranean Sea will cool you off from the heat and provide a great opportunity for relaxation. 

You’ll get breathtaking views of Barcelona’s coast and skyline. Even better, you can take a dip in the clear blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea! Whether you prefer to travel solo or with friends, there are plenty of catamaran cruises available to choose from in Barcelona. 

🤩 Take a relaxing sailing cruise with snacks and an open bar

3. Hit the Beaches in Barcelona

Barceloneta and Bogatell beaches are fantastic options and both within walking distance to plenty of hotels and key locations. Both beaches are conveniently located near bars, restaurants and clubs and it’s never hard to find an event nearby. 

If sitting still on the beach isn’t your thing, jump into one of the many beach volleyball games or rent a paddleboard from a nearby shop.  Both Barcelona beaches in August get incredibly crowded from summer travel months, so arrive early and never leave your bag unattended. You can also opt for a trip to Valencia for a quiet beach trip.

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4. Sagrada Familia and Park Guell

The Sagrada Familia and Park Guell are two of Barcelona's most iconic and most visited attractions. They are must-see destinations for tourists and locals alike. 

The Sagrada Familia is an awe-inspiring basilica designed by renowned Catalan architect Antoni Gaudí. Park Guell was also created by Gaudí, known for its vibrant colors, mosaic designs, and unique shapes. 

Both sites offer breathtaking views of the city and are perfect spots to take a break from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona. Exploring these two amazing attractions will make your visit to the city unforgettable!

🤩 Skip the lines with a guided tour of Sagrada Familia and Park Guell

5. Day trip to Sitges

Sitges is the perfect day trip from Barcelona with fantastic restaurants, night life, views and is an absolute gorgeous town. 

Sitges is located just 50 mins away from Barcelona and is easily reachable by the R2 train. Stroll through the majestic streets, bathe in the sun and stroll to the pier. 

If you prefer hiking to strolling, venture to the Buddhist Monastery, a 2.5 hour trail that can begin in Sitges. Roser restaurant has become a favorite post-hike spot for paella on the water. 

6. Day trips or Weekend Trips to Costa Brava

Costa Brava has so many wonderful towns that make up the region and activities that last far beyond 24 hours, there are plenty of options for day trips or weekend getaways from Barcelona. 

My friends and I have driven to Costa Brava for a few hours and rented houses for the weekend! We've never run out of things to do.

the Costa Brava weather in August is just as incredible as Barcelona - maybe even a bit breezier with all the beaches around here.

If you’re looking for art, head to Cadaques and Figueres to visit Salvador Dali’s house and surreal museum. If you prefer hiking, aim to explore the Cami de Ronda coastal path. 

If you’re looking for medieval cities with plenty of history, check out Girona and Tossa de Mar or Empuries for Roman / Greek ruins. 

Plan your Dali Themed Costa Brava day trip ↗

7. Casa Mila and Casa Batllo

No trip to Barcelona is complete without witnessing Gaudi masterpieces in person. Both Casa Mila and Casa Batllo are located on Passeig de Gracia, in the Eixample district, and are only a seven minute walk from one another.

This street is already gorgeous and both houses are true masterpieces.  Pass by and get photos for the unique and innovative exteriors, or immerse yourself on a tour inside. Both houses are also within walking distance to the Sagrada Familia.

8. Food and Tapas Tour

Foodies will adore taking a food and tapas tour of Barcelona! With a guide to show you all the hidden gems, you’ll be able to experience delicious local flavors whilst learning about the culture and history of Barcelona. 

From paella to patatas bravas, there's something for everyone in the Catalan cuisine. Plus, no visit is complete without a stop to sample some of Spain's famous sangria and churros. 

Taking a food and tapas tour is an exciting way to immerse yourself in the culture of Barcelona whilst having a great time with friendly locals. What more could a foodie ask for?

🤩 Taste your way around Barcelona with this walking food tour

8. Flamenco Show

Flamenco is an exciting and passionate art form that has its origins in the south of Spain, not Barcelona. While it's not as popular in Barcelona as it is in other parts of Spain, there are still some excellent flamenco shows for those who want to experience this unique style of dance.

For those looking for an even more authentic experience, there are flamenco shows combined with tapas or dinner tastings. Enjoying traditional Spanish cuisine whilst watching a spectacular flamenco performance makes for a truly unforgettable night out. 

🤩 Check pricing on a flamenco show and 3-course dinner experience

9. Stroll Gothic Quarter

Stroll down the picturesque streets of the Gothic Quarter and be swept away by the medieval charm. Visit the Gothic Cathedral, a staple to the area, that took nearly two centuries to build.

Check out the rooftop at Hotel Colon for a birds eye view of the cathedral. The Gothic Quarter is home to an abundance of fantastic restaurants like Gilda, and has plenty of cocktail bars and pubs to start a proper night out in Barcelona.

10. Rooftop Tapas

The setting of a rooftop in Barcelona, especially during golden hour, can’t be beat. Few things are better than enjoying the sunset view and espresso martinis with your preferred travel partners.

While the majority of rooftops will have food offerings, options may be limited in between lunch and dinner.  Rooftop bars are never hard to find in Barcelona and chances are, you are always within close proximity. The Rooftop at Sir Victor, Eleven BCN, and La Dolce Vitae are three of my favorites.

August Festivals in Barcelona

There are tons of August events in Barcelona, here are a few of the most popular.

1. Festa Major de Gracia

Festa Major de Gracia is an annual festival between August 15th - 21st. Always a fan favorite, unless you live on the ground floor of a flat in Gracia, the festival is a lively neighborhood party with decorations, art and live music that often goes into the wee hours of the morning.

The streets are filled with people and the vibe is comparable to a large block party. Gracia isn’t the only neighborhood that loves a good party, most barrios have similar festivals during other Summer weeks.

2. La Festa Major de Sants

When Festa Major De Gracia ends, La Festa Major de Sants begins. August 24th kicks off the festival in Sants with celebrations typically lasting a week.

Events are rooted in promotion of popular traditions and are very similar to the Gracia festival with games for folks of all ages, music, food and street decorating contests. These festivals offer an enjoyable, lively atmosphere, but avoid hotels and airbnbs during these weeks if you are looking for a more quiet experience.

You'll find festivals in Barcelona all-year - from festivals of love to Three Kings Day Parade during Christmas celebrations.

4. Sala Montjuic 

Sala Montjuic begins June 30th and goes through August 4th and is an outdoor offering of cinema movies near Montjuic castle.

Think drive-in movie theater, without the car, but add a castle! Tickets range from 7.5 - 10 euros and with the option to add in a hammock or chair. The Beasts, Argentina 1985, She Said, and One Year, One Night are on the agenda. Keep an eye out here for other live music events and festivals as new offerings are constantly announced. 

Other Barcelona August festivals, like Grec Festival and Gandules, sometimes take place in July and other years in August. It’s worth looking up if you’re visiting during these months! 

August in Barcelona is not for you if…

If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy hot weather, high humidity, and the beach, August in Barcelona may not be the best time for you. You may want to opt for October to February to avoid the heat.

This may also not be a good time to visit if peace and quiet are what you’re after. August is one of the busiest times in Barcelona.  Evenings out can be quite lively with rooftop tapas bars and nightlife attractions. 

Is Barcelona a walkable city?

I walk everywhere in Barcelona - most people do!

Barcelona is a pedestrian-friendly city, accessible to everyone. The public transportation is user-friendly, making it easy to navigate within Barcelona or travel to other parts of Spain by train.

But you don't have to walk! Opt for an e-bike or Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Tours in Barcelona will get you through the whole city for 24 or 48 hours.

Book a Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Tour ↗

Day trips from Barcelona in August

If you're looking for more than just sightseeing and staying within the city limits of Barcelona itself, there are plenty of other nearby towns worth visiting as well. 

Sitges is a beautiful coastal town just south of Barcelona where you can visit ancient ruins and Mediterranean beaches. Tarragona offers Roman ruins with gorgeous ocean views. Figueres is home to Salvador Dalí's museum; and Girona has charming cobblestone streets lined with colorful medieval buildings.

Plus, public transit and trains are budget-friendly and easy to navigate. Travelers can take advantage of endless affordable day trips without overspending.

• Visit Costa Brava
• Beach trip or hiking trip to Sitges
• Enjoy the coves and beaches in Cadaques 
• Day trip to the midieval town of Girona
• Spend the day in Tarragona Spain

Best places to stay 

Barcelona offers tons of great places to stay, but these are my top picks! If you're a first-timer, check out Gothic Quarter - it's close to the beach, transit, and nightlife. 

For beach lovers, Barceloneta is your spot to book a hotel or rental right on the beach. Gracia, El Born, and El Poblenou are also popular places. Choosing where to stay really depends on what kind of Barcelona vacation you want.

Gothic Quarter: For central location

Gothic is a beautiful town in Central Barcelona. From Gothic Quarter, you can walk to El Born, Gracia, and the beach in minutes.

It's a great place to stay for your first time. From here, you can explore the whole city. There are tons of cafes, tapas restaurants, and bars in the neighborhood.

Best hotels in Gothic Quarter:

• Catalonia Catedral ⭐9.0/10 | Wonderful
• Duquesa Suites Barcelona ⭐8.7/10 | Excellent!
• Elegant Apartment in Gothic ⭐5/5 | Exceptional!

El Born: Best place to stay in Barcelona for nightlife

El Born is a vibrant area of Barcelona renowned for its all-night adventures. It's home to some famous hotspots like the Moco Museum and Dr. Stravinsky bar. 

The Moco is a modern art museum boasting trendy and virtual art creations, while Dr. Stravinsky is one of the top 50 bars in the world! Be sure to visit and indulge in an incredibly unique cocktail experience crafted by their skilled bartenders.

Best hotels in El Born

• Mercer Hotel Barcelona 9.3/10 | Wonderful
• Apartment in City Center⭐5/5 | Exceptional

Barceloneta: Stay near the beach

Just like in June, Barcelona, Spain has perfect weather for a beach vacation in August! The famous beach town of Barceloneta is near Gothic Quarter, so you can enjoy both beach days and nights out on the town.

Best hotels in Barceloneta near the beach

• Hotel Arts Barcelona⭐8.4/10 | Very good (beachfront, Michelin-starred chef)
• House near City Center on the Beach ⭐4.7/10 | Excellent!

How to get to Barcelona in August

It’s easy to get to Barcelona from the US in August. Many direct flights from the United States open up in May and June and will stay open through September for these busier seasons. 

From the East Coast, you can take a direct flight from Dulles or Newark to Barcelona. Flights are also available from New York and Miami to Madrid. From Madrid, a quick 3-hour train ride will take you to Barcelona.

If you’re coming from Europe, Barcelona is accessible by British Airways and budget airlines like Ryan Air and Vueling. 

The airport is about 30 minutes from the heart of Barcelona. Taking a taxi will cost about $35 (32 euros), depending where you’re going in the city. 

In my opinion, taking a taxi is the most convenient. However, there are several buses at the airport that can drop you off at different locations around the city, which is the most cost-effective option. You can get a T-Casual Barcelona card to easily get around the city.

Book a private airport transfer from BCN airport ↗

Is Barcelona safe?

Barcelona is one of the safest and most welcoming cities for both visitors and locals. Although there's an issue with pickpocketing, you can avoid it by keeping close attention to your valuables. I'd advise you not to carry around excessive cash or jewelry.

Moreover, it's best not to stroll at night alone. During the day, Barcelona city is a lively space, basked in sunlight, where you can feel safe and confident. The city of vibrant culture, exquisite culinary experiences, and warm locals awaits you!

Travel tips for visiting Barcelona

• Wear light, airy clothes and bring a sweater for chillier evenings
• Learn how to say hello, please, and thank you Spanish or Catalan. Don’t forget that locals in Barcelona will speak Spanish and Catalan. This is a travel tip that I follow in every country I visit. If you’re not good at remembering, just write it down in your phone!
  
  Many phrases are the same or similar, but don’t be thrown off if you hear some different dialects during your trip.

• If you’re visiting for longer than a few days, visit a Vodafone or Orange to purchase a SIM card. They only accept prepaid Euros, so bring some cash along.
• Visit as many tapas bars as you can!
• Visit Sitges or another beach town for the best paella
• Don't go to Starbucks (yes, there's a Starbucks here). Instead, stop in at any of the local corner cafes for a cafe con leche (coffee and milk) or espresso.
• Tour the famous museums like La Sagrada Familia
• Don’t be afraid to take a Big Bus Tour if you’re short on time! It’s a great way to see your way around the entire city. You can always hop off or go back to your favorite spots.
• Don’t forget to drink lots of wine (if you drink). It’s delicious!

Packing for Barcelona in August: What to bring 

I'd pack plenty of cute coverups, shorts, tops to pair with jeans for chilly nights, and a light jacket or light sweater.

August is also a big clubbing month, so you'll want to bring some nicer dresses (for the ladies) and dress pants + shoes (for the men).

👗 Light, flowy dresses are the way to go in Barcelona!

👟Pair your dresses with a cute pair of white sneakers. Everyone walks everywhere in Barcelona, so locals and tourists alike will be seen pairing cute outfits with comfortable shoes.

👙 You’ll definitely want your swimsuits in Barcelona in August! 

👝 Bring your belt bag! This is the easiest way to keep track of all your important documents while sightseeing and shopping around the city. 

What to Pack for Barcelona

Here are my favorite things to pack when it comes to traveling around Barcelona (or anywhere, really!) I travel a ton, so I've got this down to a science now!

BEST BELT BAG FOR BARCELONA

I'm all about style, practicality, and affordability. Pickpockets can be a real problem in Barcelona, so keeping your belongings secured in front of you is super important.

Don't just take it from me - this belt back has high ratings and comes in EVERY color. Grab a few to match every outfit, if you want!

BEST LUGGAGE SET FOR BARCELONA

Coolife not only has some of the best-rated luggage on Amazon, but also the most variety in colors, pieces, and sets.

You'll likely want to check a bag going to Barcelona, but if you're traveling around Europe, you'll need small carry ons. Budget airlines like Ryan Air and Vuelling have smaller overhead space than you might be used to on airlines in America.

BACKPACKING IN BARCELONA

There's no question that Osprey has made a name for itself when it comes to backpacking - I recently got one myself! I had a hard time finding which one was right for me.

Lucky for you, they have a nifty "Who is This Pack For" quiz on there Amazon Storefront to help you find the perfect pack. Osprey's are expensive, but they'll last you a lifetime!

LIGHTWEIGHT SUNSCREEN

Because just like the Caribbean, the sun hits different in Barcelona! Protect your skin. And if you're traveling through London remember, they have pesky liquid requirements to keep in mind.

PACKING CUBES

As an avid traveler, I need to squeeze A LOT into a little. Packing cubes are surprisingly space saving - and a great way to organize. I have these packing cubes - they've lasted a long time and are versatile enough to get me through every trip.

SAND PROOF/QUICK DRY TOWEL

Going to the beach? Don't forget your towel! And definitely don't get stuck waiting for it to dry. These quick dry towels keep away the worst part of the beach (sand) and make it easy to store them when you're back in your hotel. Plus, they're super compact and light weight.

WHITE SNEAKERS

Do yourself a favor - don't show up to Barcelona without some cute white sneakers. Leave the heels at home. Walking around Barcelona isn't for the faint of heart. Keep your feet happy and go for stylish comfort.

EUROPEAN PLUG ADAPTER

These are lifesavers when traveling in Europe - 2 ports on each + 2 USB ports. They're hefty and they've lasted me a few years already, so I know they're good quality. Plus, they've got almost 10,000 great ratings on Amazon, so I'm not alone.

PROTECT YOUR PRIVACY WITH THE BEST VPN

A VPN (Virtual Private Network) protects your internet connection and privacy while hiding your online identity...and gives you access to your favorite streaming services on the road...

Unsecured connections to public WiFi can result in loss of personal data and even credit card information.

NordVPN is fast, secure, and affordable. Really, you should use it everywhere, not just when you're traveling!

E-SIM CARD

SIM cards can be a nightmare, I get it. Airalo makes it easy to add a SIM card right to your phone - one less thing you have to worry about when you get to Europe. You can purchase a card for Spain, Europe, or Global.

Just make sure your phone is compatible before you buy! You can check in the settings of your phone.

There are dress codes for many clubs in Barcelona, so make sure you're prepared to party where you want!

FAQ: August in Barcelona

Final Thoughts: Visiting Barcelona in August

August is an amazing time to visit Barcelona, with its beaches and warm temperatures, making it the perfect spot for a summer getaway. 

Instead of waiting until the last minute, visitors should book their trip as soon as possible if they're interested in enjoying all that this vibrant city has to offer in August. This is the warmest and busiest time of year in Barcelona, so be prepared! 

Not only will it provide you with the best selection of flights and hotels, but booking early can also help them save money on their travel costs. I’d recommend any beach lovers book their trip to Barcelona in August ASAP! 

There's so much to do in Barcelona during August. Whether you're looking to explore some of Barcelona's cultural attractions like La Sagrada Familia or Park Güell, join a food tour or brewery crawl through some of the city's best restaurants and bars, shop at world-renowned boutiques like Santa Eulalia on Passeig de Gràcia, or all of the above—you'll never be bored in Barcelona!

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