Crowds of tourists on a beach in Barcelona

Barcelona in August

At the peak of summertime, August marks one of the two busiest months for Barcelona. Between its highly favorable weather and plethora of world-renowned sights and attractions, it’s no surprise that hundreds of thousands pick the city as their summer destination.

While crowds and queues are of course inevitable, these are largely what gives the Catalan capital its famed bustling atmosphere. And given the plethora of festivals and events taking place throughout the month, you can expect those crowds to be electric. If busy and thriving are what you’re looking for, then Barcelona in August may be the trip for you.

Tourism in August

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It’s no secret that Barcelona in August is busy. Really busy. Alongside July, this is when the city sees its largest throughput of visitors. Hotels tend to get swept up at a moment’s notice, accommodation rates are at their highest and the city’s attractions are operating at peak capacity.

While to some this may sound like a nightmare, this is the whole appeal to many visitors. Barcelona is famous for its thriving atmosphere, bustling streets and energetic nightlife. And for that, serious crowds are a necessity. Just note that more tourists also means you’ll likely need to book your desired attractions well in advance.

The exact reasons behind Barcelona’s summertime tourism spike are no challenge to discern. Between its stellar location on the Mediterranean and average temperatures of 80 – 90°F, many come to enjoy the city’s world-famous beaches. Pair those with the existing waves of tourists interested in Barcelona’s architecture, history, cuisine and nightlife, and it’s no surprise that this is the busiest time for the city.

Those who aren’t so keen on the crowds may be better off planning a trip during the spring and fall ‘shoulder seasons’, when the city is still busy enough to maintain its buzz but quiet enough to be able to explore without the need to wade through the crowds.

Festa Major de Sant Roc

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Dating back over 400 years, one of August’s largest events is the Festival of Sant Roc. Held in honor of Saint Roch, the celebration takes place each year on Plaça Nova in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, right beside the Barcelona Cathedral.

While it may be contained to a smaller area than many other neighborhood celebrations held around the year, the festival is jam-packed full of activities. Typically taking place over the course of roughly a week, the event sees various games, traditions, processions, performances and dances take place, with something for just about all ages.

One of the most common troupes of the festival is La Cucaña, a greasy, rotating pole which children will attempt to traverse safely in return for a prize. Another is El porró llarg, a bizarre glass drinking vessel with an extremely long spout from which visitors will attempt to drink wine, much to the amusement of onlookers.

Another key part of the celebration is known as the Festival of the Dog. Legend says that when Sant Roc was sheltering within the city’s Roman walls while suffering from the plague, the local baker’s dog helped nurse him back to health by bringing him panellet cakes to eat. This portion of the festival therefore pays homage to the saint’s savior pooch with a canine exhibition. Locals will bring along their own dogs to celebrate, and there are even some dog training shows for those with excess energy.

Festa Major de Gràcia

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From August 15th to 21st, Barcelona is host to what is widely considered its most festive and most accommodating street festival. The event offers a packed program of live performances, concerts, parades, dances and activities taking place throughout the Gràcia neighborhood.

The festival is perhaps best known for its iconic decorated streets. With each street allocated its own theme for the year, the walkways of Gràcia truly come to life with vibrant and whacky displays. Most decorations will be created using sustainable and recycled materials, and each street competes to offer the most creative display in hopes of winning the annual grand prize.

Festa Major de Sants

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Should you happen to miss out on the Gràcia Festival, fret not – The Sants Festival picks up right where Gràcia leaves off. Host to a wide array of Catalan traditions, this event offers much of the same decorated streets concerts, dances, performances and activities for all ages as its predecessor.

Castells are one of the main traditions of the Sants Festival, with a large number of castellers working together to attempt to build the largest human towers. Correfocs are another, translated literally as ‘fire runs’, in which performers dressed as devils will parade around with fireworks to the entertainment of onlookers standing at a safe distance.

DGTL Festival

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A spin-off of the renowned festival held in Amsterdam, DGTL is an event quite unlike any other. Offering live underground house and techno sets from prodigious artists and DJs, this is not an event to be missed for fans of the underground music scene.

Held each year in Parc del Fòrum, the event is characteristically accompanied by mesmerizing art and light installations, turning all areas of the venue into its own immersive clubbing experience. The event maintains an ethos of sustainability, employing the likes of solar panels, exclusively vegetarian food options, cashless transactions and eco-friendly packaging.

Music Festivals

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As if Barcelona’s nightlife scene wasn’t enough, August is a month replete with music events for fans of all genres. Alongside the DGTL festival covered above, attendees come from the world over to revel in the city’s impressive musical festivities. Some of the most popular events include the Mas i Mas Festival, the Cap Roig Festival and Brunch in the Park.

Wrapping Up

Whether you’re keen to explore the city’s unique wealth of architecture and history, relax on its world-famous beaches in prime weather or enjoy the buzz of its nightlife and the many festivals taking place throughout the month, visiting Barcelona in August could be an ideal trip for those who enjoy a more bustling city experience.

While you can expect to have to fight crowds and make advance booking for your attractions of choice, not to mention your hotel or apartment, you’ll be rewarded with the opportunity to experience a city positively thriving with life. Barcelona is never quite as alive as it is in summer, which you’re bound to discover for yourself should you choose to visit in August.

Robert Heaney
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do in Barcelona in Autumn

Ahoy there, traveler! You must be ever so weary from all that scrolling. Sit down, take a load off. Do we have a tale for you—a tale of a city wonderful all year round. One where the temperature stays between 60-70°F, even when the leaves start to fall. You may have even heard of this utopia. It's none other than the Catalan capital of Barcelona. A hotbed of culture, food, and sun-soaked fun, it's a city you can visit all year round. So, if the leaves are falling, and a vacation is calling, what's stopping you? Well, perhaps you simply don't know what to do once you get there. Never fear, wanderer! Listen close, for this list of the best things to do in Barcelona in Autumn is sure to inspire and delight in equal measure! Featuring: Exploring architecture Sampling street food Relaxing in the great outdoors The museum scene Hanging out with animals   Explore the city's architecture Given the city's pleasant temperatures, even in the fall, why not take to the streets and go exploring? There's so much incredible architecture to discover in Barcelona! Either head off on your own, or take a walking tour if you'd like expert insight into the history of the buildings and their creators. Spain's most famous architect, Antoni Gaudi, has a number of walks dedicated to his bewildering buildings. You could take a tour of his most famous work, the Sagrada Familia, or add a little green to your walk in Park Guell. Sample the local produce during a tour of the city's ancient markets or explore the city's spookier side in the Raval district. While some might prefer these curated experiences, there's nothing stopping you from stepping into the unknown and charting your own path through the city's beautiful, winding streets!   Try some delicious street food Spain is responsible for some of the world's most lauded foods, so make the most of your stay by eating it all! Street food has seen a worldwide resurgence in recent years, with entire markets and events dedicated to it. And just as well, because Barcelona has relatively strict rules about when and where vendors can set up shop. There's the All Those Food Market, held on the grounds of the University of Barcelona, which brings together chefs, artisans, and foodies to celebrate all things food. You'll find stalls a-plenty, with delicious Spanish street food and craft drinks to wash it all down. Or there's Eat Street Market, which has a residency in Nau Bostik, an old factory. How very spontaneous! A mix of live DJs, curated food offerings, and refreshing beverages is sure to hit the spot. They also cater to all the veggies out there, so there's no reason not to check it out! And finally, set in a delightful garden nestled in an old industrial district, Palo Alto Market Fest is open the first weekend of every month. You'll find live music, fantastic street food, and even activities for the little ones.   Check out Barcelona's beaches and parks Of course, given the bearably warm climate in autumn, it's worth checking out Barcelona's summer spots too. The city's beaches will likely be less busy, meaning you can grab the best seat in the house and lounge to your heart's content. You may have already heard of Barceloneta - it's Barcelona's most famous beach for a reason! Whether you simply want to sit and sun, sip a refreshing cocktail on the beach, or sit seaside for some delicious food, it's got it all. And, while it's often pretty tourist-heavy during the peak summer months, those numbers dwindle during autumn. Of course, there are plenty of other beaches to check out too. Or, if you'd rather be a little closer to nature, go for a walk or picnic in one of Barcelona's beautiful parks! There's the previously-mentioned Park Guell, which was designed by Gaudi. You'll find plenty of weird and wonderful architecture, mosaics, and sculptures there. Or, head to Horta Labyrinth Park to explore, you guessed it, an incredible maze.   Go to a museum However, if Barcelona's temperate autumn hits the cooler end of the spectrum, there's plenty to do indoors too. Open your mind and suckle on that sweet knowledge at one of its many museums. The Moco Museum has exciting pieces from artists past and present, from Andy Warhol to Banksy. And alongside art powerhouses like Dali and Damien Hirst, you'll see works from up-and-coming artists. Or, check out Museu d'Art Contemporani de Barcelona, which houses over 5000 unique art pieces from the latter part of the 20th Century. This collection focuses on Spanish and Catalan artists, although you'll also find international artists like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Alexander Calder on show. Alternatively, get more hands-on at CosmoCaixa, an interactive journey that marries art and science to explore the Earth, geology, space, and time. Definitely one to check out on a cooler Autumn day in Barcelona!   Walk and talk with the animals And finally, why not spend a bit of time on your trip by spending some time with some exotic fauna? Barcelona has some great animal spots to visit too. There's L'Aquàrium de Barcelona, where you'll find over 11,000 wonderous underwater creatures like sharks, rays, and eels. Walk through the underwater tunnel and watch them swim all around you. Or head to the 14 Mediterranean aquariums representing the areas' different underwater ecosystems. And the - ahem - jewel of the aquarium is the Jewels of the Sea exhibition, which shines a light on how shells have been used in jewelry, tools, and decorations throughout the world for millenia. Alternatively, if you like your animals a little more land-based, head over to Barcelona Zoo, where you'll rub shoulders with cheetahs, giraffes and gazelle at the Africa Sahara exhibit. And make sure to check out the Reptile house, with its myriad exotic species of scaly pals, including komodo dragons, alligators, and snakes! And that's our list of the best things to do in Barcelona in Autumn! Whether inside or outside, you're sure to find some great entertainment that'll keep you captivated.
Dom Bewley
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Things to do Alone in Barcelona

Sometimes, traveling alone can be just the thing. Whether you want to meet new people on your vacation, or simply have some time to yourself, plenty of people are heading overseas by themselves these days. So why not visit beautiful Barcelona, and discover all the things to do there when you're alone? If you're wondering what to add to the itinerary, wonder no longer, because we've put together a list of the best things to do alone in Barcelona just for you! Including: Gaudí's greatest hits Explore Polo Espanyol Barcelona Bus Tour Ancient Markets walking tour Explore beautiful Monserrat Get Gaudí One of Barcelona's biggest draws is the work of master architect Gaudí. The famed builder left his unique stamp all over the city, which he called home. So, clearly, if you want the authentic Barcelona experience, you'll need to see at least some of his awe-inspiring pieces. So strap in, because we're about to talk Gaudí and then some. First off on the Gaudí hit list is Casa Batlló, which is often considered his greatest work. This striking building is an amalgamation of bone-like columns, mosaic glass wonders, and mask-like balconies. It's no wonder it's known locally as the 'house of bones'! This 700m2 behemoth was once home to the Batlló family, hence the name. The Batlló family owned a textile manufacturing empire, which is why they were able to hire the man himself to redesign their house. Next on our hist list is arguably Gaudí's most iconic structure, the Sagrada Familia. Take a tour of the famed building a learn all about its history from a knowledgeable guide to get the full experience! Alongside seeing the fantastic decor, created with a fusion of art-nouveau and gothic styles, you'll discover why the cathedral wasn't finished before Gaudí's death. You'll also get an insight into the hidden Christian symbology that permeates both inside and out. Truly remarkable. Then, there's Park Güell, Barcelona's most recognizable green space, thanks to our man Gaudí's unique stamp. Make sure to take a guided tour of the grounds, as you'll not only have access to all the best bits, but you'll also learn about the rich history surrounding each remarkable building facade and piece of art contained within. Another of Gaudí's architectural marvels is undoubtedly La Pedrera. Built over six years at the start of the 20th century, it has his unique style written all over it. From its undulating limestone façade to its twisted chimneys and ironclad balconies, it's yet another pic-hungry stop on the Gaudí tour of excellence. You think we're done yet? We're not done yet. We're going back to the very beginning with the first building that Gaudí ever designed. Casa Vicens is its name, and within its Neo-Mudéjar exterior, you'll find a permanent collection of artifacts that explore the site's 130-year history. Go for the snap-worthy architecture; stay for the insightful learning experience. Or, if you want a more visceral Gaudí experience, ahem, try the Gaudí Experience 4D! It's an interactive, immersive experience that lets you explore the life and works of the master in new and exciting ways! It features hands-on displays and touchscreens, as well as the cinematic main event where you'll be taken on a ride through his inspirations. Your seat will move as you fly above trees that mutate into columns, and much more. It's a trippy experience, for sure, but one you should experience for yourself! Congratulations! You made it to the end. Whichever way you choose to celebrate the famed architect, any of the above are easily some of the best things to do in Barcelona if you're traveling alone. Marco...Polo? If you're looking for more of a historical exploration of Catalan architecture and culture, go see Poble Espanyol. This open-air architectural museum is one of the best things to do in Barcelona if you're traveling alone. There, you'll get an insight into how different parts of the city have changed and evolved through time. This city-within-a-city contains 117 buildings, streets, and squares that recreate large parts of the city, from ancient neighborhoods to revolutionary Spain's city streets. And, on top of this mesmerizing amalgamation of history, you'll also find over 300 contemporary artworks from famous Catalan artists. Be sure to get snaps of greats by Dali, Picasso, and many more!. You can also pick up some authentic souvenirs from the onsite smiths, leatherworkers, and jewelry makers! Barcelona by bus If you're looking to see all of the city's sights in the comfort of a cushioned chair, then why not take a hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Barcelona? If you already have a packed itinerary, it's the perfect way to see everything in just a few hours. You can also get off whenever you like if you want to take a closer look at one of the city's iconic landmarks, then hop on the next one to continue the tour. Your ticket lasts for 24 hours, so feel free to make the most of it! Highlights include the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batlló, and the Mercat de Sarrià, so you'll have plenty of picture opportunities to leave your social media following in the dirt. Marketing 101 Want a closer look at Barcelona's timeless market scene? Why not take a tour of the ancient markets that still stand tall today? If you're looking for things to do alone in Barcelona, this should be high on your list! With an experienced guide in tow, you'll kick proceedings off at Boqueria Market, one of Barcelona's best. While you're learning about the market's history and traditions, you'll be able to pick up some fantastic fresh produce or delicious local snacks. Then, you'll travel through the beautiful Ramblas promenade, a former flower market that is now full of cafes, flower stands, and beautiful scenery. You'll end up at the Santa Caterina Market in the Gothic Quarter, a bustling marketplace known for its brightly-colored roof inspired by the plentiful fruits and vegetables on offer. And finally, you'll end the tour at El Born, a former market that has transformed into a residential neighborhood. The steel and glass design is sure to delight, and is more than worthy of a few snaps. Escape to the mountain And finally, we'll end this list on a bit of a cheat, because you'll need to leave the city for this one. However, it's more than worth it. Visit the picturesque Monsterrat without worrying about transportation, and explore this beautiful location for as long as you want! Start your journey on a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, then ascend Monserrat and take in the spectacular views of the city. Cameras at the ready, people; you're not going to want to miss a beat. Then, when you get up to the top, you can explore at your leisure. Go for a hike, or visit the nearby monastery. It's entirely up to you, and no one can tell you otherwise! And that's our list of the best things to do in Barcelona when traveling alone!
Dom Bewley
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Outdoor Activities in Barcelona

The great outdoors. Nothing quite beats the feel of the sun on your skin, the wind in your hair, and the buzzing of flies around your unwashed body. Just us? Anyway, if you've made it this far, you'll want to know about the best outdoor activities in Barcelona, so you can make the most of the idyllic weather. Whether you're looking for outdoor artistic tours, architectural wonders, or wave-based snaps, you're in luck. So, without further ado, let's explore the best outdoor activities in Barcelona! Including: Poble Espanyol de Barcelona Park Güell Guided Tour Las Golondrinas Boat Tour Ciutadella Segway Tour Best of Barcelona Bike Tour and more! Cities within the city Why explore one city when you can explore multiple cities through multiple eras...all in one city? If you're confused, don't be; that's simply what's on offer at Poble Espanyol. A stone's throw from the unmissable fountain in Montjuïc Park, you'll find this open-air architectural museum that recreates the soul of Spanish culture, art, and cuisine. In fact, you'll explore recreations of 117 buildings, streets, and squares from the city's history. From old monasteries to neighborhood markets, you'll see it all. And, on top of all this fascinating architecture, you'll also have the chance to view over 300 works of art from Spanish art giants like Dalí and Picasso. Easily one of the best outdoor activities in Barcelona. Getting Güelly with it If you want to make the most of the weather, why not head to one of Barcelona's best parks? Park Güell was designed by the late great architect Gaudi, and it shows. Bizarre yet intricate buildings, beautiful mosaics, and winding, extravagant staircases are all on show here. If you're interested in the creation of the park and the inspiration behind its design, why not take a guided tour and learn all about it? Your arts-trained guide will lead you through the park's most important sculptures, pointing out many hidden details you may miss if exploring alone. Plus, you'll get access to the parts gated off to the non-paying visitors. Be sure to snap pics of El Drac, a mesmerizing mosaic of a salamander, and the wonderfully designed Porter's Lodge. Then, put them on your socials and put your followers to shame. Just cruisin' One of the highlights of visiting a new city is seeing the sights and landmarks. And, sure, you could do that on your weary two feet. But why not enjoy views of the Catalonian capital by way of water? Because you absolutely can, courtesy of a Las Golondrinas Boat Cruise! For one and a half glorious hours, you'll cruise the Med, taking in views of Barcelona's skyline, and snapping pics of all the highlights across nine miles of coastline. Be sure to look out for Villa Olimpica, Castell de Monjuïc, and Port Olimpic, among many others. Relax in luxury, soak up the sun, breathe in that sea air and see everything Barcelona has to offer. Does it get much better than that? No it does not. The perfect Segway Want to learn about one of Barcelona's most famous parks while zooming around on a hip new mode of transport? Well then, you'll want to tour the city's Ciutadella Park on a Segway! And don't worry, it doesn't matter if you have zero experience riding these electronic chariots. Everyone gets a quick intro to Segway operation and riding before the tour begins. Then, once you're suitably prepared, you'll shoot off into the park with your guide, and learn about the park's history. You'll also pass many local attractions like the Barcelona Zoo, the Cascada fountain, and the city's answer to Paris' Arc de Triomf. More fun than it has any right to be, a Segway tour is the perfect summer activity, and absolutely one of the best outdoor activities in Barcelona! On your bike! If you're feeling adventurous, or simply want to burn off the liters of sangria and tapas you've consumed over your vacation, why not take a two-wheeled tour of the city? Prepare for a mammoth three-and-a-half-hour trip, as your knowledgeable guide takes you around Barcelona. Explore the vibrant parts of the city tourists don't reach, ride past many of Gaudi's masterworks, and take a short break on the beautiful beaches while you rehydrate. It's a long ride, but well worth it, so be sure to pack a big bottle of water, some snacks, a hat, and a whole heap of sunscreen. Oh, and your camera; you'll need it to snap the city's magnificent sights. Be on the lookout for The Sagrada Familia, Old town, Barceloneta beach, and many more Grammable beauties. Zootopia IRL You know who else likes outdoor activities? Animals. And you know where animals live? The wild. Well, usually, because if you visit Barcelona Zoo, you'll get to hang out with 2,000 of the lovely critters! Head to Parc de la Ciutadella, and you'll find the zoo. Then, once inside, you'll get up close and personal with lions, tigers, lizards, penguins, giraffes, elephants, and many, many more animals! You can also learn about the zoo's conservation efforts, and attend workshops and guided tours if you want to hear from the experts. And that's our list of the best outdoor activities in Barcelona! Looking to spruce up your itinerary with some more fun? Those with a stranger side may appreciate our guide to quirky Barcelona! Looking to squeeze some pennies? We've found the best cheap things to do in the city. Or, if you fancy getting out of the city and seeing the beautiful scenery nearby, check out our guide to day trips outside Barcelona! Until next time, adventurers.
Dom Bewley

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