With the summer crowds gone and the crisp air bringing a refreshing calm, this season is ideal for discovering the architectural wonders, rich history, and coastal charm of this Catalonian city. And you know what? This year, we did just that and created a guide for anyone who wants to make the most of their autumn trip to the Catalan region.
Barcelona places of interest - our favorite spots
Barcelona is brimming with must-see attractions, but some places left an unforgettable mark on us during our recent trip. From architectural wonders to vibrant public spaces, here are our favorite spots in the city that capture the essence of Barcelona’s culture, history, and artistic flair. For us, it was also important to walk around and look up, this way seeing the green treetops and how the city seems to breathe in and breathe out at every flap of a bird’s wing. I would highly recommend taking your time and just living in the moment, trying out the small cafés and breakfast spots sprinkled around the city.
Fun information: the birds you hear in Barcelona are a mix of European birds and parakeets. First spotted in the city in 1975, the numbers of parakeets were estimated at a mere 50, but with a vertiginous growth rate, there are now thought to be more than 10,000 parrots living in the Barcelona metropolitan area.
Strolling Through the Gothic Quarter
Part of the top 10 sights of Barcelona we began our trip in the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), where the city’s medieval history comes alive. Narrow streets lead us to stunning squares, such as Plaça Reial and Plaça del Rei, where we stopped for a coffee and explored ancient Roman ruins. This part of Barcelona felt especially atmospheric during autumn when the summer heat faded a little bit and the cobbled streets were a tad quieter.
Gaudí’s Masterpieces in Full Glory
No visit to Barcelona is complete without exploring the genius of Antoni Gaudí. In the soft autumn light, the iconic Sagrada Família shines even more vividly, its towering spires reaching for the sky like a surreal dream. Gaudí’s Park Güell, with its colorful mosaics and imaginative landscapes, was the perfect backdrop for a leisurely walk. A nice 28 °C made the city liveable and even more importantly: walkable. The metro system of Barcelona and the buses are punctual and well-organized but it is very important to emerge from the underground to see the true glory of the city. We did just that and saw marvelous buildings and parks that are not on any map, because they simply are part of the fabric of the place, absolutely breathtaking in their practicality.
Tip: If you plan on spending more days in the city, the Barcelona travel card offers options for 48h - 120h of public transport. This means that you can buy a travel card that can be used on virtually anything in the city, from metro lines to bus lines and more, saving you time and money while exploring the Catalan city.
The Magic of La Rambla
As we strolled down La Rambla, we could feel the energy of Barcelona pulsing through every corner. The bustling boulevard, with its market stalls, street performers, and cozy cafes, had a more relaxed vibe in the fall, making it the perfect time to explore without the crowds of peak season. We stopped at La Boqueria Market, where the fresh local produce and autumn flavors were irresistible - gorgeous cured meats, yummy cheeses, hearty tapas and seasonal seafood that perfectly captured the essence of the city.
Our time at Barceloneta Beach
No trip to Barcelona is complete without a visit to its iconic Barceloneta Beach. Known for its lively summer crowds, this famous stretch of sand transforms in the autumn into a more peaceful seaside retreat, offering a different kind of magic, but don’t think an empty beach will await. The city of Barcelona is hot and vibrant even at the beginning of September and although the beach is more livable compared to summer months, the crowds are still very much present.
One of the highlights of our time at Barceloneta Beach was a spontaneous picnic by the sea. After strolling along the shore, we stopped at a small food stand where we grabbed two refreshing lemonades and two burritos, the perfect beach meal. With our food in hand, we found a quiet spot on the soft sand, laid out a blanket and sat down to enjoy the moment.
As we unwrapped our burritos and sipped on the cool lemonades, we couldn’t help but marvel at the beauty of the Mediterranean Sea in front of us. The water was a perfect shade of blue, sparkling under the autumn sun. The gentle waves rolling onto the shore created a rhythmic backdrop, making our meal even more enjoyable. There’s something about eating simple, delicious food with such a stunning view that makes the experience truly unforgettable.
Barcelona festivals we would like to attend
Barcelona is known for its vibrant festivals, and during our trip, we learned about several exciting celebrations we would love to experience firsthand. Here’s a list of festivals that capture the lively spirit, rich traditions, and cultural diversity of the city.
- La Mercè (September)
- Sant Jordi (April 23)
- Festa Major de Gràcia (August)
- Primavera Sound (Late May/Early June)
- Sant Joan (June 23)
- Festival Grec (July)
- Día de los Reyes (January 5-6)
- Barcelona Beer Festival (March)
What to do in barcelona for free - our favorite free activites
Barcelona is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, and the best part is that you can experience a lot of it without spending a cent, so we tried out these activities upon our visit! From awe-inspiring architecture to breathtaking views, here are our favorite free activities that let you enjoy the beauty and energy of Barcelona on a budget.
1. Wander through the Gothic Quarter
One of the most fascinating neighborhoods in Barcelona is the Gothic Quarter (Barri Gòtic), a maze of narrow, winding streets filled with history, charm, and stunning architecture. You can spend hours getting lost in its medieval alleyways, stumbling upon hidden squares like Plaça Reial and Plaça Sant Jaume, and marveling at the intricate details of the buildings. Don’t miss the chance to explore the Cathedral of Barcelona, whose impressive Gothic façade is a stunning sight to behold.
2. Take in panoramic views from The Carmel Bunkers
For one of the best free viewpoints in Barcelona, head to the Bunkers del Carmel. Located atop Turó de la Rovira, these old military bunkers offer incredible 360-degree views of the entire city, stretching from the Sagrada Família to the sea. It’s the perfect spot for a sunset picnic or just to sit and soak in the breathtaking panorama of Barcelona. The climb is worth it for the stunning vistas, and it’s a great way to experience the city from above without spending a euro.
4. Stroll along La Rambla and La Boqueria Market
Walking along La Rambla, one of the most famous streets in Barcelona, is a must-do-free activity. The wide pedestrian boulevard is lined with shops, cafes, and street performers, giving it a lively, bustling atmosphere. While it’s often crowded, it’s a great place to people-watch and soak in the energy of the city.
Along the way, stop by La Boqueria Market, where you can wander through its vibrant stalls of fruits, vegetables, seafood, and local delicacies. Even if you don’t buy anything, the colorful displays and lively ambiance are worth experiencing.
5. Relax at Barceloneta beach
Barceloneta Beach is one of the most popular beaches in Barcelona, and spending time there is completely free. Whether you want to sunbathe, take a swim, or simply walk along the shore, the beach offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea. In the autumn months, the beach is quieter and perfect for a relaxing afternoon, but even in summer, the lively vibe and the sound of the waves make it a great free activity.
6. Admire the Sagrada Família from outside
While entry to La Sagrada Família comes with a fee, admiring the basilica from the outside is absolutely free—and equally impressive. Gaudí’s masterpiece is a marvel of architectural detail, and you can spend time walking around the basilica to take in its intricate façades. Each side of the building tells a different story, and the Nativity Façade, in particular, is a stunning piece of art that you can appreciate without paying for entry.
Barcelona in september - Why we chose the end of summer
When planning our trip to Barcelona, we decided to visit in September, right at the tail end of summer—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. Here’s why September in Barcelona offered the perfect mix of pleasant weather and a more relaxed atmosphere, making it the ideal time to experience this incredible city.
Perfect weather: the best of both worlds
One of the biggest reasons we chose September was for the weather. By this time of year, the intense heat of the peak summer months has mellowed, but it’s still warm enough to enjoy the city’s beaches, outdoor cafes, and parks. With average September temperature in Barcelona ranging between 20°C to 28°C, we found it ideal for walking around the city, sightseeing, and even spending a few hours lounging and swimming at Barceloneta Beach.
The cooler evenings were perfect for al fresco dining or watching the sunset from spots like the Bunkers del Carmel without the discomfort of a sweltering summer night. September gave us that sweet spot—warm enough for summer fun, but comfortable enough to explore all day long.
Fewer crowds: the city at a more relaxed pace
After the bustling summer tourist season, Barcelona starts to calm down in September. The city’s most famous landmarks, like La Sagrada Família and Park Güell, are still busy, but the crowds are noticeably smaller compared to the height of summer. This made it easier to enjoy the sights without long lines or feeling rushed.
The slightly quieter vibe extended to the beaches and popular neighborhoods like Gothic Quarter and El Born, which made wandering through the streets more enjoyable. We loved being able to take in the city’s architecture and charm at a more leisurely pace, snapping photos and lingering in cozy cafes without battling the summer crowds.
Tip: We love brunch, so we tried out several brunch places around the city and our absolute favorite was Manifest Inspiring Brunch, just a few blocks away from Sagrada Familia. Exploring the city is best to do on a belly full of quality food and great coffee.
Barcelona places of interest on a map
To make the most of our time in Barcelona, we mapped out some of the city's most iconic places of interest. Having a visual guide helped us plan our days and make sure we didn’t miss any of the must-see spots. You can see our Barcelona highlights on the below map and plan your trip accordingly.
Relax and stay in a holiday home in Catalonia, and experience everything the region has to offer from Barcelona to its beaches and smaller towns.
