Thanks to its Mediterranean climate, you can visit Barcelona at virtually any time of year. However, the different seasons vary more than you might think.

In winter, daytime temperatures usually hover around 14–16 °C, but can drop to 5–8 °C in the mornings and evenings. From June to September, on the other hand, expect typical temperatures between 27 and 30 °C, and during heatwaves even above 35 °C.

The summer heat is further intensified by high humidity. As a result, it often feels hotter in Barcelona than the thermometer indicates, and, particularly in July and August, it is worth choosing accommodation with air conditioning.

Rain is most common in autumn. It doesn’t rain on many days, but, particularly in September and October, there can be short, very heavy showers or thunderstorms. Several consecutive days of rain are still more a matter of bad luck than the norm.

In any case, Barcelona is one of the sunniest major cities in Europe.

The weather in Barcelona in a nutshell:

• Best weather for exploring the city – April, May and October
• The best combination of sightseeing and swimming – the second half of June and September
• The hottest months – July and August
• The rainiest periods – September and October
• Fewest tourists – January, February and November

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Weather and temperatures in Barcelona throughout the year

Have you found cheap flights for a specific date and want to check what the weather will be like in Barcelona at that time?

Below are the long-term averages.

Weather in January

January is the coldest month in Barcelona. Typical daytime highs hover around 15 °C, whilst morning and evening temperatures drop to around 6 °C.

It can be lovely in the sunshine during the day, but it’s certainly not T-shirt weather. Pack a jacket and a few layers of clothing, especially if you’ll be spending time by the sea.

On average, it only rains a few days a month. January is therefore a good choice for visiting sights and museums outside the peak tourist season.

Weather in February

February is similar to January, except that the days are slightly longer. Afternoon temperatures hover around 15–16 °C, whilst mornings are usually around 7–8 °C.

Rain occurs on only a few days. However, a colder wind from the sea can make your stay less pleasant, so a light winter jacket will come in handy.

When planning your trip, check the dates of major conferences, particularly the Mobile World Congress. Although this is the off-season, hotel prices can skyrocket during these events.

Weather in March

March marks the transition between winter and spring. Typical daytime temperatures rise to 17 °C, but in the evening you should still expect temperatures of around 9 °C.

The weather tends to be more changeable than in February. Sunny days alternate with cloudy spells and short showers. However, March is ideal for long walks around the city, as it is not yet too hot and the days are significantly longer than in winter.

Weather in April

April is one of the best months for exploring the city. Daytime temperatures hover around 19 °C and drop to around 11 °C in the evening.

The weather isn’t as stable as in summer, and there are a few rainy days throughout the month. However, it’s rarely rain that lasts all day.

A light jacket will come in handy in the morning, whilst on a sunny afternoon a T-shirt or jumper is often enough.

Weather in May

May offers one of the best combinations of temperatures, sunny weather and long days. Afternoon highs hover around 22–23 °C and evenings are usually around 15 °C.

May is brilliant for walks, sightseeing and day trips. However, the sea is only around 18 °C, so swimming is really only for those who don’t mind colder water.

From May to October, Barcelona is one of the most popular city destinations in Europe. Reasonably priced hotels in good locations are therefore the first to sell out.

Book your hotel in advance

Weather in June

June is already a fully-fledged summer month. Average daily highs reach 27 °C, and temperatures exceeding 30 °C are not uncommon towards the end of the month.

There is little rain and the days are the longest of the year. The sea warms up quickly and is usually around 22 °C by the second half of June.

If you want to combine exploring the city with a dip in the sea, but want to avoid the peak of the summer heat, the second half of June is one of the best times to visit.

Weather in July

July is the sunniest and driest month of the year. Daytime temperatures hover around 29–30 °C, but regularly rise higher on hot days.

Nights are warm, with temperatures around 22 °C, and the high humidity can be uncomfortable. When choosing a hotel, therefore, always check that it has air conditioning.

The sea is around 25 °C and the conditions for swimming are excellent. Plan to explore the city mainly in the mornings and late afternoons.

Weather in August

August is the hottest month in Barcelona. Typical daily highs reach 30 °C, and during heatwaves temperatures can exceed 35 °C.

It may only rain a few times a month, but showers tend to be heavier than in July and are occasionally accompanied by thunderstorms. The likelihood of showers is highest in the second half of August.

The sea is at its warmest of the year, averaging around 26 °C.

During the hottest part of the day, it’s best to plan visits to indoor attractions, such as the Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, the aquarium or one of the museums. Buy tickets in advance for specific times for the most famous sights.

Compare tickets and activities in Barcelona

Weather in September

September is still a summer month. Daytime temperatures hover around 27 °C and the sea remains warm at around 25 °C.

Unlike July and August, however, the likelihood of showers and thunderstorms increases. Rainfall may be brief but intense. It is certainly not the case that the entire first half of September is bound to be dry.

If you want to combine sightseeing, day trips and swimming, September is one of the best times of the year. What’s more, towards the end of the month, temperatures gradually drop, making it more comfortable to walk around the city.

Weather in October

October is the rainiest month in terms of total rainfall. On average, however, it only rains for about 6 days, so most of your stay could still be completely rain-free.

Be prepared for the possibility of short, heavy showers or thunderstorms. Continuous rain throughout the day is less common.

Daytime temperatures reach 22–23 °C and the sea is still around 22 °C. You can therefore even go for a swim, particularly at the start of October.

Weather in November

It gets significantly cooler in November. At the start of the month, daytime temperatures can reach 20 °C, whilst by the end they are more often around 17 °C. The monthly average for daily highs is around 19 °C.

Expect temperatures of around 10 °C in the mornings and evenings. The days are already short, but November is still a good time for sightseeing in the city. There tend to be fewer tourists and the summer heat is long gone.

The sea is about 18 °C, which is already too cold for most people.

Weather in December

Afternoon temperatures in December hover around 15–16 °C, whilst in the mornings and evenings they drop to around 7 °C.

Rain falls on only a few days, and snowfall is an absolute rarity in the city itself. You’ll need a winter jacket or a warmer coat, though, especially after sunset.

The biggest drawback of December isn’t the rain, but the short days. You should therefore plan to visit outdoor sights in the morning and indoor attractions in the late afternoon.

Sea temperature in Barcelona

Barcelona isn’t just a city destination. Right in the city itself, you’ll find several long beaches, so you can easily combine sightseeing with a swim.

For most people, the sea is pleasant from the second half of June until the start of October. Hardier travellers also go for a swim in May or throughout October.

Water warms up and cools down more slowly than air. That’s why the sea is significantly warmer in September than in June, and the water in October can be similar in temperature to that at the start of summer.

• May – 18 °C
• June – 22 °C
• July – 25 °C
• August – 26 °C
• September – 25 °C
• October – 22 °C
• November – 18 °C

During heatwaves, actual temperatures can be even higher. You’ll find tips on specific beaches in the ‘Things to do in Barcelona’ section.

What to pack depending on the season

• December to February – a jacket, jumper or cardigan and closed-toe shoes
• March to May and October to November – several layers, a light jacket and a folding umbrella
• June to September – light clothing, a hat, sun cream, swimwear and a water bottle

In summer, a light jumper may also come in handy in heavily air-conditioned museums, shops or on public transport.