Summer in Barcelona is simply a dream. The city boasts golden beaches, vibrant rooftop bars, and a plethora of thrilling events to look forward to, all of which make it a top destination during the warmer months. To ensure you make the most of this glorious season, we’ve created the ultimate guide to Barcelona’s summer. Let’s take a look!
Top Beaches in and around Barcelona
During summer, nothing beats lounging on a beautiful beach and soaking up the sun. Luckily, Barcelona offers an array of beach options, ranging from beautiful spots within the city to hidden gems farther afield.
In Barcelona itself, you’re spoiled for choice with iconic beaches like Barceloneta Beach, Sant Sebastià, Bogatell, and Llevant Beach. For those seeking to avoid sandy toes, Banys del Fòrum provides a refreshing alternative, allowing you to dip into the Mediterranean waters without the hassle of sand. You can see more of our recommendations by checking out our blog on the best beaches!
If you’re craving more secluded shores, venture beyond the city to discover hidden treasures like Sitges beach, Castelldefels Beach, or Platja de Ribes Roges, where tranquillity reigns supreme for a truly serene beach day trip.
So, get your sunscreen ready and embark on an adventure to discover Barcelona’s stunning beaches.
Rooftop Terraces
Barcelona’s rooftop terraces are among the city’s most prized specialties, each offering a unique blend of refreshing beverages and breathtaking panoramic views. It’s an experience that promises to be nothing short of extraordinary.
Among our top picks are The Roof at the Edition Hotel, Hotel Colón’s Panoramic Bar, and La Dolce Vitae bar at the Majestic Hotel. These rooftops stand out for their exceptional offerings, featuring sophisticated drinks and an ambiance of sheer luxury set against a stunning backdrop.
A visit to a rooftop terrace ensures an evening filled with splendour, making it the perfect choice for a romantic date night or a memorable celebration. Savouring a delightful cocktail while gazing at the stars guarantees an experience that will linger in your memories for a lifetime.
Best Summer Events
Barcelona’s summer scene is renowned for its vibrant array of events. Let’s explore what the city has in store for us!
Primavera Sound Festival
Ranked among Europe’s top music festivals, Primavera Sound is a must-experience event. Featuring headliners such as Lana Del Rey, SZA, Charli XCX, Pulp, and Disclosure, alongside a plethora of other exceptional artists, this 5-day music event from the 29th May to 2nd June promises to be an unforgettable highlight of the summer.
Sonar Music Festival
From June 13th to 15th, the Sonar Music Festival will captivate techno music enthusiasts with performances from Adriatique, Kaytranada, Eliza Rose, Jessie Ware, and more. Offering both day and evening tickets, the festival invites everyone to immerse themselves in Barcelona’s vibrant techno scene.
Fórmula 1: Gran Premio de España 2024
For Formula 1 enthusiasts, the Spanish Grand Prix from June 21st to 23rd is a must-attend event. Here, you can watch top drivers like Lewis Hamilton, Max Verstappen, Fernando Alonso, and Carlos Sainz compete for victory.
Grec Festival
Calling all enthusiasts of theatre, poetry, music, and dance! The Grec Festival, running from June 26th to August 4th offers a diverse programme of performances for a truly enriching cultural experience.
Pride Bcn
Join in the spirited celebrations of Barcelona’s Pride from July 18th to 20th, as the city comes alive with exciting activities and events, uniting with the LGBTQ+ community to celebrate diversity and love.
Cruïlla Festival
From July 10th to 13th, the Cruïlla Festival promises a dynamic mix of music, comedy, and culinary delights, making it an event for all tastes and preferences.
Copa América de Vela 2024
Experience the excitement of the Copa América de Vela 2024 from August 22nd to October 27th, as sailing boats compete for the prestigious America’s Cup title.
Hidden Retreats
With so many events taking place during Barcelona’s summer, it is important to know a few hidden gems where you can seek solace, here are a few of our favourites:
Jardins de Mossèn Costa i Llobera
Escape to this serene garden offering panoramic views of the city’s coastline and port, adorned with exotic flora and fauna.
Casa Vicens
When visiting Barcelona, most people head straight to Gaudí’s Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, or Parc Güell, however, to avoid the crowds, consider visiting a lesser-known but equally as beautiful masterpiece, Casa Vicens. Located in the charming Gràcia neighbourhood, this architectural gem is guaranteed to impress.
Parc del Laberint d’Horta
Uncover the tranquillity of Barcelona’s oldest garden, featuring a maze, lush greenery, and Greek-inspired sculptures – a true hidden paradise.
Now that you’re equipped with our Barcelona summer guide, you can confidently book your summer getaway, knowing that you’ll fully immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant ambiance.
