Why visit Barcelona in spring?
While other parts of Europe are still rain-sodden and windswept in spring, in Barcelona things are already starting to heat up. Think long walks along the beach, eating local cuisine al fresco, soaking up the sun, carousing at countless festivals, or simply sipping a mojito on a warm evening as the sun sets. Tempted?
Of course, the whole Mediterranean region is getting warmer at this time of year and flights to these countries are already filling up. However, Barcelona as a spring city break remains unrivalled as it offers so much more than just topping up your vitamin D levels. Read on to find out our top picks for Barcelona this spring.
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Barcelona festivals and events this spring
The Spanish have built up a reputation for knowing how to have a good time. From centuries-old traditions to more blatant excuses for hedonism, there’s hardly a weekend during spring where there isn’t something exciting going on here. Don’t miss:
Barcelona Beer Festival 8-10 March – part of a global trend that has turned brewing into a trendy gastronomic affair, this beer festival brings together over 100 brews from all over Spain and the rest of the world.
Easter 12-19 April – Semana Santa, as it’s known here, is a chance to watch the many colourful parades in Barcelona’s city centre and try the famous Spanish Easter cake, La Mona de Pascua.
La Diada de Sant Jordi 23 April – Sant Jordi is a day when lovers exchange gifts. Traditionally men give women a rose, while women give men a book. As a result Las Ramblas transforms into a open-air florist and book fair.
La Feria de Abril de Catalunya 26 April-5 May – head to Parc del Fórum to discover the spirit of Andalusia and have fun in the fairground and the numerous stalls or ‘casetas’ which dish up Andalusian music, dance and food.
Spanish Formula One Grand Prix 2014 9-11 May – come and see the stars battle it out on the Circuit de Catalunya in this year’s Spanish Grand Prix.
Night at the Museum – the museums and popular attractions grant free entrance from 7pm until 1am this Saturday 18 May. Museums involved include the Picasso Museum, La Pedrera, Cosmocaixa science museum and the CCCB.
Primavera Sound 22 May-26 May – one of Europe’s top music festivals that gets the whole city buzzing. Expect to see some of the best rock, pop and alternative acts playing in numerous outdoor venues across Barcelona.
Seasonal spring food and eating out
Al fresco wining and dining is a must when visiting Barcelona in spring, whether you want to start the day with a breakfast in the sunshine or take advantage of the balmy evenings. If you’re a seafood lover then the beach area of Barceloneta features some of the city’s finest seafood and paella restaurants. Don’t forget to look out for some of the seasonal favourites such as calçots – barbecued green onions dipped in salvitxada sauce (a type of nutty romesco sauce that it is thickened with toasted garlic and then pulverised).
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Make the best of the spring weather in Barcelona
With average highs of 18-20 degrees Celsius, it’s usually warm enough in April to hit the beach and enjoy relaxing without the crowds and the extreme heat of summer. National Geographic rated Barcelona as having the best urban beaches in the world and the city has three miles of sandy shores to choose from, all easily accessible by public transport.
If basking by the sea isn’t your thing, Barcelona is equally lucky in terms of parks – the most famous and central of these is the Parc de la Ciutadella. Here you can rent a rowing boat, go to Barcelona Zoo, check out the famous fountain, or simply lie back and people watch. Much less touristy is the Laberint d’Horta – the Horta Gardens and Maze. The park features countless statues, fountains, beautiful flowers and its centrepiece is a giant maze.
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Where to stay in Barcelona this spring
If you’re thinking about coming to Barcelona this spring then fear not, we have accommodation all over the city. If you fancy your accommodation being near to the beach then Barceloneta or Vila Olímpica are ideal. You can enjoy romantic walks along the promenade, see some famous sights or go for a morning run or cycle. The beach front is also home to some brilliant seafood restaurants, as well as busy bars and swanky clubs.
On the other hand if you’re after proximity to the parks and hills surrounding the city and a more authentic experience then try Gràcia, where you’ll find Gaudí’s splendid Parc Guëll. If you want to be right in the thick of the action, in the narrow streets of the mysterious Old Town, then the Gótico or Born districts are where you’ll want to be.
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I really enjoyed this article, can’t wait for this cold to blow over and Spring to arrive!
Hi Frank,
Yes, I’m also looking forward to some warmer weather! Will you be coming to Barcelona in the Spring? It’s a great time for sightseeing – not too hot, not too cold 🙂
Francesca