Visiting Barcelona in the summer is, without a doubt, a great idea. It’s one of the country’s most dynamic and attractive cities, where you can enjoy all kinds of activities, from cultural and historical experiences to those related to sun, beaches, and nightlife. The Catalan capital, therefore, not only offers guaranteed good weather during this time of year but is also incredibly versatile, allowing you to enjoy it in many different ways and for all types of travelers—be they families, couples, or solo adventurers.
However, planning your vacation to make the most of your visit can be challenging due to the city’s vast offerings and the large number of visitors. That’s why we’ve put together 10 essential recommendations to help you make the most of your stay in Barcelona during the summer months. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!
1. This Summer in Barcelona, the Beaches are a Must
What would summer be without a refreshing dip at the beach? In Barcelona, you can enjoy the benefits of a bustling city while also taking in the tranquility and scenery of the coastline. Some of the beaches you can’t miss on your visit to Barcelona between June and September include the popular Barceloneta, Mar Bella, and Bogatell. For a getaway beyond the city, consider Sitges or the Costa Brava, both easily accessible by train and offering spectacular coves. Remember to arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends.
2. Sunset Catamaran Cruises: You’ll be Amazed!
Boat trips are one of the best things to do in Barcelona in summer. Sailing along the city’s coast as the sun sets is a truly spectacular show worth appreciating. It’s considered one of the best sunsets in the Catalan capital, so you shouldn’t miss it.
Many companies offer catamaran or sailboat tours that include drinks, music, and even the chance to take one last swim before nightfall. It’s a unique perspective of the city that will take your breath away!
3. Discover the City with an Expert Tour Guide
If you don’t know what to see in Barcelona this summer, the easiest way is to hire a tour guide to accompany you and help you discover all the city’s secrets. Barcelona is one of the largest and most historic destinations in the country, with incredible monuments, most notably the Sagrada Familia, a classic you will undoubtedly want to learn every detail about. There are also thematic tours (Modernisme, Picasso, gastronomy) and “free walking tours” (tip-based) that are an excellent way to get a first feel for the city.
4. Indulge in Catalan Gastronomy
Mediterranean cuisine is one of the most popular in the world for its fresh flavors and exquisite recipes. This summer in Barcelona, you’ll not only find examples of this Mediterranean food—including the essential paella, of course—but also the most typical dishes of Catalonia. Be sure to try specialties like pan con tomate (pa amb tomàquet), escalivada, suquet de peix (fish stew), or crema catalana. If you want to savor the most typical dishes of this Catalan gastronomy, we recommend L’Olivé in the Eixample area, or if you’re in the Gothic Quarter, don’t miss Informal. Also, explore markets like La Boqueria for an authentic culinary experience.
5. Barcelona from the Sky
If you love extreme experiences, one of the best summer plans in Barcelona is to see the city from a bird’s-eye view. While the city is captivating from its streets, its people, and its architectural masterpieces, it’s even more so from the sky. A helicopter tour is one of the most exciting activities on this list, offering spectacular panoramic views of the Sagrada Familia, Port Vell, and the coast.
Another fascinating option is to ride the Telefèric de Montjuïc for panoramic views or the Port Cable Car (Telefèric del Port) that connects Barceloneta with Montjuïc mountain. For a more affordable and accessible view, the top of Tibidabo or the Búnker del Carmel are ideal spots to take in the entire city.
6. Summer in Barcelona: A Centrally Located Hotel
Accommodation is a key part of any trip, as the overall experience depends largely on its comfort and location. To get around the city easily, it is highly recommended to stay in a centrally located hotel, specifically one close to some of the most important tourist attractions.
Even better is if the room is very comfortable and promotes rest for tourists who have spent the day exploring the city. This is the case with HCC Hotels, with unbeatable locations in Barcelona and designed to offer the best rest and personalized service, including pools and terraces perfect for summer.
7. Enjoy Water Sports
There are many ways to appreciate the city’s landscapes, but one of the most stunning is from the sea, where you can admire its unmistakable skyline. And what better way to do that than by engaging in one of the most popular water activities while enjoying an incredible view?
These water sports in the Catalan capital include paddle surfing (ideal for beginners and for watching the sunrise from the sea), kayaking (to explore the coast at your own pace), and parasailing (for the more adventurous, with spectacular aerial views). For your convenience, you can find companies that offer these services along the Barcelona seafront promenade or at the Port Olímpic. It’s a fantastic way to beat the heat and add some excitement to your trip!
8. Discover Barcelona’s Rooftops
Rooftop bars are one of the favorite trends among Barcelona’s residents and a true discovery for those visiting the city in the summer. These hidden spots high above the streets serve as a way to escape the capital’s daily hustle and bustle and calmly appreciate the blue Mediterranean sky while enjoying a refreshing drink, often with music and a sophisticated atmosphere.
If you’re looking for these exclusive experiences, HCC Hotels offers unbeatable options to enjoy Barcelona from above, combining the comfort of your accommodation with unique views and atmospheres:
The Terraces of HCC Hotels: Comfort and Views in the Heart of Barcelona
At HCC Hotels, our terraces provide a special retreat. The REG76 Terrace at the HCC Regente, located on the emblematic Rambla de Catalunya, allows you to enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere with privileged views of the vibrant Eixample, perfect for sunset cocktails or a relaxing moment by its pool.
For those seeking serenity, the The Outside Terrace at the HCC St. Moritz is an oasis of tranquility in the heart of Eixample, perfect for unwinding with a drink or enjoying its live music, away from the city noise. Meanwhile, the OhhaSis Terrace at the HCC Montblanc, located in a quiet inner courtyard in the historic center, is an unexpected haven of peace, ideal for relaxing after a day of sightseeing and taking a dip in its pool amidst the vibrant Gothic Quarter.
9. Get Lost in the City’s Parks and Gardens
One of the favorite places to visit in Barcelona in summer for residents are the parks and gardens, thanks to the tranquility they offer. These are small oases of peace located in the midst of the city’s daily activity, perfect for a relaxing walk, a picnic, or simply escaping the sun.
Some of the most visited by tourists looking to explore the city’s green areas are the Parque de la Ciutadella (with the Arc de Triomphe and the Zoo), the iconic Parc Güell (it’s essential to book in advance), and the Laberint D’Horta (a neoclassical garden with a charming hedge maze, less crowded). The Parque de Montjuïc also offers multiple themed gardens and magical fountains to explore.
10. The Best Time to Visit Tibidabo
If you don’t know what to do in Barcelona with kids in summer, we highly recommend visiting the Tibidabo amusement park. It’s one of the oldest in Europe, but it has perfectly withstood the test of time. Fun is guaranteed for the whole family at this park, from the little ones to teenagers, with exciting rides and shows.
Additionally, it offers magnificent panoramic views of the entire city that can be appreciated from almost any point in the park, especially at sunset. Take advantage of an extra layer of entertainment by getting to the park with the historic funicular or the Tibibús for an adventure from the very beginning!
Ultimately, a summer in Barcelona can be an unbeatable experience full of discoveries by following these extended tips, which will make your visit to the Catalan capital an unforgettable memory and allow you to enjoy its many facets. What are you waiting for to discover this magical and diverse destination? Barcelona awaits you with open arms!
