5 things to do during the summer in Barcelona

Regardless of the season, the city of Barcelona has no shortage of activities to enjoy. However, the Mediterranean sun during the summer months seems to amplify these possibilities, offering visitors an almost overwhelming variety of places to visit and tours to take. That’s why we’ve taken the time to highlight what we think are some of the most memorable things to do in the Catalan capital during the hottest season of the year. From picnics to nightlife and everything in between, here is your guide to the top 5 things to do in Barcelona during the summer:

Go to the beach

When the city is at its hottest, one of the best ways to embrace the sun is to head to the nearest beach. Fortunately for visitors to Barcelona, ​​the “nearest beach” is actually a 4.5 km stretch of unspoiled coastline that is home to more than 7 different beaches.

For those adventure seekers looking for a lively experience, check out Barceloneta Beach, the most popular and active ‘beach’ in the city. During the day, Barceloneta is a prime area for visitors looking to take part in beach sports like volleyball and there’s plenty of room to relax in the sun.

Located in the center of Barcelona’s nightlife, Barceloneta is also just a short walk from many famous bars and nightclubs that during the day transform into relaxing places to enjoy a drink, by the beach. Additionally, there are plenty of typical “chiringuitos” (beach bars) situated on the sand such as Princesa 23, perfect for cooling down with a cocktail or two.

If you prefer a more relaxed and calm beach environment, we suggest you head to Nova Mar Bella beach. Here you will be among a quiet crowd, probably lounging and possibly taking a quick nap on the sand. When all the activity on the beach stirs your hunger, we recommend stopping by one of the many beachside restaurants, prime spots that offer all the ingredients for an exceptional dining experience: fresh seafood, paella, a fresh drink, and an incredible view. of the Mediterranean Sea. .

Summer nights in Barcelona

When it comes to Barcelona, ​​it’s only possible to experience half of the city’s amazing activities unless you’re willing to put off bedtime a bit. Known for its wild nightlife, Barcelona is the place to be for some hot summer tunes and a fun night out on the town.

A night out in Barcelona would not be complete without a stop at Port Olímpic. This short strip is just a short walk from the beach and is home to some of Barcelona’s most popular “nightclubs” such as Opium Mar and Shôko. Of course, make sure you wear comfortable dance shoes, because in these clubs the party does not end until the wee hours of the morning.

For a more culturally diverse night scene, why not check out some of Barcelona’s traditional bars? Although more difficult to choose than the louder bars and clubs, the local bars in Barcelona are the place to be for authentic Spanish tapas, quality cocktails and friendly culture. Why not try a blast from the past experience at Smoll (Countess of Sobradiel 9). This well-hidden vintage spot offers its guests some exceptional cocktails at affordable prices.

Delicious delicacies to beat the heat

When you feel peckish during your summer stay in Barcelona and have had your fill of paella and traditional tapas, there is only one choice to make: cup or cone.

Stroll down any street in the Barcelona metropolitan area and you won’t be long in coming across one of the many “gelaterías” in the city, such as the Italian “Amorino”, which has many ice cream parlors scattered throughout the city center, or the quirky “Eyescream and Friends”, located next to the beach on Passeig de Joan de Borbó. This frozen and sweet dessert is the ideal snack for any Barcelonan who wants to cool off.

picnic in the park

To cross two things off your list at once, we suggest a picturesque picnic with friends and family while taking in the magnificent view of Barcelona from the beautiful Park Güell. This architectural masterpiece designed by Barcelona’s foremost artistic mind, Antonio Gaudí, is one of the city’s must-see attractions. Park Güell embodies Gaudí’s love of colour, as the walls, fountains and even benches are covered in vibrant tiles. Plus, its use of unusual shapes and unorthodox designs is sure to inspire the child in all of us. So take a couple of hours out of your day to venture into this beautiful area and enjoy lunch while looking out over the city.

Festivals and Celebrations

Known widely for its cultural pride and appreciation, Barcelona comes together several times throughout the year to celebrate various festivals, both religious and otherwise. Those who visit in the summer months, however, are lucky enough to experience the city during the period of the year when some of the best and most exciting festivals take place.

One of the biggest and most popular festivals in the city of Barcelona is the Festa Major de Gràcia. This massive street party takes place in the Gràcia district throughout the week of August 15. During this week, daily parades and traditional festivals take center stage as the human towers known as Castellers shake and amaze the crowd. The main attraction of this festival is the “best decorated street” contest where the “streets” of this trendy neighborhood are adorned with vibrant and colorful homemade decorations.

Although there are other well-known summer festivals in Barcelona, ​​such as the Sònar music festival and the fiery Nit de Sant Joan, the Festa Major de Gràcia is one of the best examples of local Barcelonans and visitors from all over the world coming together to celebrate friendly celebrations.

Staying in Barcelona during the summer

Barcelona is an amazing city, home to amazing summer activities, and one of the best ways to make the most of your sun-filled days in the city is to rent one of the many Barcelona vacation apartments. From apartments on the beach to those located right in the center of town, you’re never far from a fantastic activity, attraction, or even an ice cream parlor! Plus, with many apartments accommodating large groups of people, you can have a great stay in the city with family and friends. Here you can wake up every morning to the sound of the Mediterranean and have access to all the wonderful sites and scenery the city has to offer.