Barcelona Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Bright, bold, and buzzing, Barcelona is the ultimate city-meets-beach break. One minute you’re wandering cobbled Gothic alleys, the next you’re toes-in-sand with a sangria in hand.

Good to know

🤩 Fun fact: Barcelona is home to the biggest football stadium in Europe, the Spotify Camp Nou – a proper whopper that can hold nearly 100,000 fans!

🏖️ Best beach: Barceloneta Beach. Golden sands, a buzzing promenade, and plenty of spots to grab a cheeky sangria

🍺 Price of a pint: Around €3-4 (still a steal for a bevvy in a city this boujee).

Destination Highlights

Perfect mix of city buzz and beachy bliss
Mind-blowing architecture
Always buzzing, from street performers to festivals, beach bars to nightclubs.
Fun for everyone... history buffs, party people, beach bums and little explorers all sorted in one city.

Barcelona holidays for First-Timers

See the icons - start at La Sagrada Familia – book early, go early, avoid the crowds. Wander Park Güell for those candy-coloured mosaics. And lose yourself in the Gothic Quarter, where hidden courtyards and boutiques pop up around every corner.
Live like a local - dinner doesn’t start until 8:30pm – so embrace late-night tapas hopping. Shops may siesta in the afternoon, so time your spree. And don’t forget, this is Catalonia – a cheerful “Bon dia!” goes a long way.
Beach beyond Barceloneta - swap the bustle for Platja de la Nova Mar Bella – chilled, LGBTQ+ friendly, and all about laid-back vibes.

Where is the best area to stay on your holidays to Barcelona?

Barcelona has a pocket for every type of holidaymaker - whether you’re rolling with the fam, partying with pals, or escaping for a romantic weekend away. Here’s where we’d pitch up:

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For families - spacious streets, playgrounds, and quieter local restaurants make central neighbourhood, Eixample a winner with kids in tow. Plus, it’s close to Gaudí landmarks, a perfect pick for a family holiday.
🎉 For groups - a group holiday to Barcelona is all about the buzzing nightlife, edgy bars and live music joints. You wanna get El Raval on your radar, it's smack-bang next to Las Ramblas and the Gothic Quarter.
💕 For couples - cobbled alleys, candlelit tapas bars and art galleries galore. El born is the ideal pick for hand-in-hand, mushy, lovey-dovey couples holidays where wandering and sneaky cava pit stops are the norm.

Barcelona holidays 2025 / 2026 - must-visit beaches

Barcelona enjoys an impressive 4.5km stretch of sandy bays along its shoreline, making it perfect for city breaks with a side of beach. From lively to peaceful; family to nudist, Barcelona has a beach to suit you - no matter how last-minute you're planning to jet off. Here are a few of our faves:

Barceloneta Beach: The OG of Barcelona beaches, this one's popping off with lively vibes, bangin' beach bars, and plenty of room for activities.
Nova Icaria Beach: A top-tier spot for families and foodies, with a whopping selection of delish restaurants and calm waters perfect for the kiddos.
Bogatell Beach: For the sporty types, Bogatell is where it's at. Think volleyball, windsurfing, and a proper good workout, all while soaking up the sun.
Mar Bella Beach: Fancy a bit of a cheeky, swanky vibe? Mar Bella's got a nudist section and a laid-back atmosphere that's perfect for a more chilled-out day.
Ocata Beach: Just a short train ride away, Ocata offers mahoosive stretches of golden sand and crystal-clear waters, ideal for a top-notch escape from the city buzz.
Castelldefels Beach: This mega beach boasts miles of sand and is scorchio for windsurfing and kitesurfing, with a backdrop of stunning hills.

What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Barcelona?

Looking for the perfect place to stay in Barcelona? Whether you’re after a beachfront beauty, a family-friendly apartment, or a super-cool spot in the Gothic Quarter, we’ve got you covered. Here are some top-notch hotels to consider for your next holibob:

Occidenal Atenea Mar: Adults-only paradise with a rooftop infinity pool, just 500m from the beach. Perfect for a romantic escape.
Axel Hotel Barcelona Urban Spa: Lively LGBTQ+ haven with stylish rooms, an on-site spa and pool, plus a fab rooftop bar. Ideal for a couples' getaway.
Iberostar Paseo de Gracia: A hotel that ticks all the boxes with a rooftop infinity pool, central location, and gorgeous modern rooms. Perfect for everyone.
Barcelona House: Family-friendly gem less than 100m from La Rambla. Spacious apartment-style accommodation right in the city’s heart.
Catalonia Park Guell: Quiet family retreat with a rooftop pool and on-site snack bar. A great option for a more peaceful stay.
Hotel Barcelona Apolo affiliated by Meliá: smackdab in the centre with a 24-hour on-site gym, an open air lounge and rooms so swanky you'll struggle to get out and pound the pavement.

Barcelona holidays travel guide

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Barcelona for families

Barcelona keeps the kids busy and the grown-ups happy. Kick things off with a wander down Las Ramblas — it’s tree-lined, full of street performers, living statues and shops to poke your nose into. Stop for an ice cream or watch the magicians work their magic. If you’ve got a footie fan in the fam (big or small), a tour of the Spotify Camp Nou is a must. It might look small from the outside, but step in and you’ll see why nearly 100,000 fans pack it out on match days. Stadium tours and behind-the-scenes peeks make this a winner every time.

❤️ Things to do in Barcelona for couples

A couples’ getaway here is pure romance. Think lazy strolls through Gothic streets, hidden plazas and surprise pit-stops for people-watching and wine. No visit’s complete without gazing up at the La Sagrada Familia — Gaudí’s jaw-dropper still turning heads over a century later. Take a tour or just admire the details from outside. When hunger strikes, lose yourselves in the bustle of La Boqueria market — grab fresh bites, share a few tapas and wander among rainbow-coloured stalls before slipping off to a candlelit cava bar nearby.

🥳 Things to do in Barcelona for groups

Travelling as a squad? Easy. There’s something for everyone. The Barcelona Bus Tour is a stress-free way to cover the main sights — two routes, hop on and off as you fancy and explore different neighbourhoods at your own pace. When the sun sets, it’s all about finding the right dancefloor. Make it simple: hit up Razzmatazz. Five rooms, massive DJs, live gigs and endless tunes mean nobody moans about the playlist.

💰 Things to do in Barcelona on a budget

So far you’ve already paid for your flights, your hotel, transfers, the obligatory airport beers… the list goes on. The last thing you want to do is fork out a lot of money on excursions when you could be saving those spends for important things, like food! It’s cool, we get you. Barcelona doesn’t need to drain your wallet, it's a perfect pick for a cheap holiday. For starters, the beaches are free — bring your frisbee, snacks and soak up that Spanish sun without spending a penny. Want a taste of the city’s famous architecture without splashing out? Plan your own Gaudí walking tour. Tick off big hitters like La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, Casa Batlló and the Cascada Fountain at Parc de la Ciutadella. Stunning sights, no ticket needed.

🍽️ Things to do in Barcelona for Foodies

Foodies, you’ve hit the jackpot. Kick off at La Boqueria, where you can watch fresh seafood sizzle and jamón legs hang from the rafters.Next, follow your nose (and taste buds) on a tapas crawl through the Gothic Quarter — trust us, each bar is better than the last. Want to get hands-on? Book a paella-making class and master the art of perfect saffron rice. For a treat, splash out on a rooftop dinner with views of the Sagrada Familia or join a sunset wine and tapas tour around El Born. Fancy an extra adventure? Pop out to a local vineyard and toast with a glass of bubbly cava.

Getting around Barcelona

🚌 Buses & Metro - quick, cheap, and everywhere you need to be. A Hola BCN! card = unlimited rides and extra savings.
🚲 Bikes & Scooters - zip along the seafront or weave through Eixample’s stylish streets – breezy, fun, and easy.
🚡 Cable car - float up Montjuïc for panoramic views – a whole new angle on the city without the uphill slog.

Other places to stay in Spain:

Popular Barcelona hotels

More Barcelona hotels

Stunning Barcelona resorts

Weather in Barcelona

JAN

13^°C

FEB

15^°C

MAR

16^°C

APR

18^°C

MAY

21^°C

JUN

24^°C

JUL

27^°C

AUG

28^°C

SEP

24^°C

OCT

19^°C

NOV

16^°C

DEC

13^°C

With sizzling summers and mild winters, Barcelona is a real year-round destination. Sunny one moment, breezy the next - always keeping you on your toes and ready for a good time.

Summer in Barcelona, that's when the city really turns up the heat. With temperatures that sit around 30°C, you'll be dancing in the streets or sunbathing on the beach. But don't think the weather in Barcelona is all about the hot stuff; those sea breezes know when to swoop in and sweep you off your feet. How's that for a holiday romance?

Autumn and spring are the city's little secret. With temperatures lounging around 18°C to 24°C, it's just right for strolling through the Gothic Quarter or enjoying a cheeky glass of local wine at a pavement café.

And winter? Well, Barcelona doesn't really do winter like the rest of us. It's more of a cool, casual 10°C to 15°C affair. Perfect for exploring the city's vibrant arts scene or catching a football game. Read more about Barcelona weather!

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FAQs

It takes about two and a half hours to fly to Barcelona from the UK.

Barcelona is one hour ahead of the time in the UK.

The official currency of Barcelona is the Euro.

The official language spoken in Barcelona is Spanish.

Barcelona’s Christmas markets bring the festive fun with a quirky Catalan twist – think twinkly lights, artisan stalls, and cheeky Caga Tió logs stealing the spotlight under that dreamy Mediterranean winter sun. 😍🛍️

Fira de Santa Llúcia: (Estimated) 27th November – 23rd December 2025
Nadal al Port: (Estimated) 28th November 2025 – 6th January 2026

Find out more about:

Where to stay in Barcelona

All Inclusive holidays in Barcelona

Las Ramblas

Leading from the Plaza de Catalunya all the way to the seafront, this tree-lined boulevard is a huge tourist hotspot. From vibrant street art to pop-up live performances, it’s abuzz with action almost 24/7. Here you can find a huge number of shops, restaurants, bars and even museums - all in one place.

Camp Nou

Home to the world-famous Barcelona FC, this super-sized stadium is built into the ground and is the largest in Europe, seating a whopping 99,000 people. With a huge range of tours on offer - from self-guided wanders to VIP pitch walks - it’s a must for lovers of the beautiful game. There’s even the chance for a sneak peek behind the scenes, and the interactive exhibits offer hours of hands-on fun for even the littlest footie fan.

Wander the Gothic Quarter

Lose yourself in Barcelona’s oldest neighbourhood, where narrow medieval streets open onto hidden squares and secret courtyards. Discover quirky shops, ancient churches and cosy bars tucked away behind ivy-covered walls — perfect for getting totally, absolutely, positively lost.

Museo Picasso

If you’re into your art then a visit to Museu Picasso is definitely a must! Picasso lived in Barcelona between the ages of 15 and 23 and the city definitely had an impact on his work. Marvel at some of Picasso’s most well-known pieces and discover some of his lesser-known early works that were inspired by this beautiful city.

Take a ride on the Montjuic Cable Car

Montjuic is a scenic wooded hill that borders the bustling city below and is home to a magnificent castle. Taking a trip up here is worth it for the views alone. And to top that off, a trip by cable car is even better. Whether you start at the bottom stop or take the funicular halfway, you’re sure to enjoy the amazing panoramic views on offer on your holidays to Barcelona.

Marvel at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

When the sun dips, head to Montjuïc for a show that’s pure holiday magic. The Magic Fountain bursts into life with music, lights and water dancing in perfect time — it’s totally free and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for kids and grown-ups alike. Grab a spot early for the best view!

What events can I go to in Barcelona?
Barcelona’s events calendar is packed with music, culture and local fiestas that’ll have you living like a true Catalan. We reckon you'll be planning your next Barcelona holidays before you’ve even unpacked. Whether you’re here for a sunny city break or some winter sun, these events are worth pencilling into your diary:
- Three Kings Parade (January) - Barcelona kicks off the year in magical style with a huge parade welcoming the Three Wise Men. Expect colourful floats, marching bands and enough sweet treats thrown to the crowds to keep everyone grinning.
- Barcelona Carnival (February) - bright costumes, street parties and cheeky parades fill the city just before Lent. Think music, masks and plenty of mischief — fun for families and partygoers alike.
- Sant Jordi’s Day (April) - Barcelona’s answer to Valentine’s Day. The city turns into an open-air book and flower market as locals swap roses and novels with loved ones. Romantic and uniquely Catalan.
- Primavera Sound (June) - a giant on the festival circuit. International bands and DJs rock the city by the sea — perfect if you fancy a festival and a city break rolled into one.
- Sonar Festival (June) - big beats and cutting-edge tech collide. By day, exhibitions and workshops; by night, a city-wide party with world-class electronic artists.
- Barcelona Pride (June) - one of Europe’s most joyful Pride parties. Expect rainbow parades, concerts, drag shows and street dancing that goes well past midnight.
- Grec Festival (July) - a summer-long celebration of theatre, dance, music and circus acts in stunning outdoor venues — a culture lover’s dream under the stars.
- Festa Major de Gràcia (August) - this local neighbourhood festival transforms Gràcia’s streets into a riot of handmade decorations, pop-up bars and live music. One giant block party — and a must-see if you’re in town.
- Diada Nacional de Catalunya (September) - Catalonia’s national day is marked with flag-waving, traditional dancing and political marches. Soak up the local pride and maybe join in a sardana dance.
- Festes de la Mercè (September) - Barcelona’s biggest street festival. Expect fire runs, human towers, open-air concerts and fireworks. It’s the city’s way of saying goodbye to summer — and it’s epic.
- 48H Open House (October) - for one weekend, Barcelona unlocks the doors to architectural gems usually closed to the public. Peek behind grand façades and discover the city’s design secrets for free.
- FC Barcelona Home Matches (Various dates) - from August through May, catch Barça at their iconic home ground. Even non-football fans can’t help but get swept up in the electric atmosphere.
Where is the best nightlife in Barcelona?
Barcelona’s nightlife is legendary — a kaleidoscope of buzzing tapas bars, tucked-away tavernas and clubs that pulse ‘til sunrise. Whether you’re sipping vermouth in a candlelit bodega or dancing the night away in a superclub by the beach, nights here are never boring. Here are some of the top spots to check out on your Barcelona holidays 2025:
- Boadas Cocktails - a Barcelona institution just off La Rambla. Small, old-school and steeped in history, Boadas has been shaking up martinis since the 1930s.
- El Paradiso (El Born) - this speakeasy-style bar is a treat. Slip through a pastrami shop fridge door and you’re inside one of the world’s top cocktail bars — innovative drinks and a buzzing crowd guaranteed.
- BierCaB (Eixample) - love craft beer? This laid-back spot pours over 30 taps of local and international brews. Perfect for a chilled start to your night.
- Nevermind Bar (Gothic Quarter) - a grungy skater bar with graffiti walls, cheap drinks and even an indoor mini skate ramp. Ideal for pre-club pints and punk vibes.
- Razzmatazz (El Poblenou) - a five-room mega club and local legend. From indie rock to techno and pop hits, there’s a dancefloor (and DJ) for every taste. Come ready to lose track of time.
- Macarena Club (Gothic Quarter) - small but mighty. This intimate house and techno spot draws a loyal crowd and global DJs — dance shoulder-to-shoulder until the early hours.
- Sala Apolo (El Paral·lel) - a historic theatre turned club, Apolo hosts legendary theme nights and live gigs. Think disco balls, confetti and late-night anthems.
What's the food like in Barcelona?
Catalan cuisine is a feast for the senses — fresh, hearty and bursting with Mediterranean flavours. Expect a winning mix of traditional Spanish staples and local specialities unique to Barcelona. Here are a few dishes you have to try on your Barcelona holidays:
- Pa amb tomàquet - a simple but iconic Catalan classic: toasted rustic bread rubbed with ripe tomato, garlic and olive oil. Perfect with any tapas spread.
- La bomba - a deep-fried potato croquette with a spicy kick, served with rich tomato sauce and a dollop of garlicky aioli. A local bar snack hero.
- Escudella i Carn d’Olla - a hearty Catalan stew of meats, sausages and veggies — proper comfort food, especially in winter.
- Suquet de Peix - a traditional fisherman’s stew made with the day’s catch, saffron and potatoes. Best enjoyed with crusty bread to mop up every drop.
- Iberico ham - wafer-thin slices of cured perfection - order it at a local bar with olives and you’ll instantly feel like a local.
- Gazpacho - chilled tomato soup with a refreshing zing, perfect for cooling off after a day of sightseeing in the summer heat.
Fancy tasting Barcelona like a local? Here are some must-visit places to eat and drink on your holidays:
- El Xampanyet (El Born) - a buzzing, old-school cava bar famous for sparkling wine by the glass and epic tapas.
- Bar La Plata (Gothic Quarter) - tiny, authentic and timeless - serving the same four tapas since 1945. Locals swear by it.
- Can Culleretes (Gothic Quarter) - the oldest restaurant in Barcelona, serving hearty Catalan classics in a charming vintage dining room.
- Cal Pep (El Born) - hugely popular tapas bar with a marble counter, fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere. Get there early — it’s always packed.
- Cervecería Catalana (Eixample) - a bustling spot with an endless tapas menu and a big terrace for people-watching. Order a cold Estrella beer - when in Barcelona!
- Bar Mut (Eixample) - chic, low-lit and beloved by locals for its daily market specials and stylish vibe. Perfect for a romantic meal or a fancy treat.

Places to visit

La Sagrada Familia
Probably the wildest cathedral you’ll ever clap eyes on — part Gothic masterpiece, part giant gingerbread house, and part “what was Gaudí on when he dreamt this up?” No photo does it justice: it’s massive, mind-bendingly detailed and still, unbelievably, a work in progress over 140 years later.
Your ticket lets you step inside a forest of stone columns and rainbow-stained glass that’ll make your jaw drop and your camera roll beg for mercy. Fancy levelling up? Book a tower ticket and climb sky-high for views over all of Barcelona.
Once you’ve stared up so long your neck hurts, take a breather in the pretty little park opposite — perfect for smug selfies with the spires in the background. An absolute must on your holidays to Barcelona, no matter how many times you’ve been.
La Boqueria
A full-on sensory circus for your Barcelona holidays and hands down one of the best places to accidentally spend half your holiday budget on snacks you didn’t know you needed. La Boqueria is Barcelona’s beating foodie heart: rainbow fruit stalls, hanging jamón legs, sizzling seafood and more fresh juices than you can count.
Wander in for “just a quick look” and come out an hour later, sticky-fingered and clutching a cone of chorizo you definitely didn’t plan to buy. Pull up a stool at one of the teeny tapas bars tucked inside for a plate of something sizzling and a glass of cold cava. Or two. Honestly? Worth every cent and every crumb down your top.
Park Guell
Welcome to Gaudí’s fever dream - a technicolour wonderland where gingerbread gatehouses, rainbow mosaics and winding paths make you feel like you’ve wandered into a fairy tale (or maybe a very sunny hallucination). Originally meant to be a fancy housing estate (spoiler: it flopped), Park Güell is now one of Barcelona’s quirkiest must-sees. Snap a selfie with the famous mosaic lizard (his name’s El Drac - very friendly), then follow the twisting paths up the hill for unbeatable city views.
Pro tip: bring a picnic and your best “look how artsy I am” pose - you’ll need both. A must for your Barcelona holidays bucket list, and your Insta feed.

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

The Catalonia region implements a sustainable tourism tax on all overnight stays which will be payable on arrival in the hotel. This ranges from €0.65 to €2.25 per person, per night. The amount will depend on the type of accommodation and its star rating.

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Barcelona Holidays

Enjoy our lowest-priced travel months!

Good to know

Destination Highlights

Barcelona holidays for First-Timers

Where is the best area to stay on your holidays to Barcelona?

Barcelona holidays 2025 / 2026 - must-visit beaches

What are the top hotels to stay at on your holidays to Barcelona?

Barcelona holidays travel guide

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Things to do in Barcelona for families

❤️ Things to do in Barcelona for couples

🥳 Things to do in Barcelona for groups

💰 Things to do in Barcelona on a budget

🍽️ Things to do in Barcelona for Foodies

Getting around Barcelona

Other places to stay in Spain:

Popular Barcelona hotels

Stunning Barcelona resorts

Weather in Barcelona

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

View destination on a map

Reviews

FAQs

How long does it take to fly to Barcelona?

What's the time difference between the UK and Barcelona?

What currency do they use in Barcelona?

What language do they speak in Barcelona?

Where will the Barcelona Christmas Markets 2025 be held?

Find out more about:

Las Ramblas

Camp Nou

Wander the Gothic Quarter

Museo Picasso

Take a ride on the Montjuic Cable Car

Marvel at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc

What events can I go to in Barcelona?

Where is the best nightlife in Barcelona?

What's the food like in Barcelona?

Places to visit

La Sagrada Familia

La Boqueria

Park Guell

Key facts about Barcelona

Flight Time

2.5 hrs

Time difference

+1 hr

Currency

Euro

Language

Spanish

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Barcelona?

Do I need to pay tourist tax on my holiday to Barcelona?