Discover

Catalonia

Holidaying in Catalonia offers a chance to explore a region brimming with diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and historic charm. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the medieval beauty and sun-soaked beaches of Girona-Costa Brava, every corner has its own unique character. The Pyrenees invite adventurers with their rugged peaks, while the vineyards of Penedès offer a taste of Catalonia’s famed wines. With so much to discover, it’s the perfect destination for those seeking variety and adventure.

 

What you’ll love most about Catalonia

  • Wander the streets of Barcelona, where Gaudí’s masterpieces like La Sagrada Família and Park Güell dazzle alongside vibrant markets and the Gothic Quarter’s timeless charm
  • Hike through the dramatic landscapes of Montserrat, home to stunning rock formations and a revered mountaintop monastery offering breathtaking views
  • Relax on Costa Brava’s pristine beaches, where golden sands, turquoise waters, and picturesque fishing villages provide the perfect Mediterranean escape
  • Discover Girona’s medieval allure, with its ancient walls, colourful riverside houses, and the narrow, cobblestone lanes of the Jewish Quarter
  • Savour Catalonia’s culinary delights, from hearty escudella stew to modern Michelin-starred creations, paired with local wines and cava from the Penedès region
  • Immerse yourself in Catalan culture at traditional festivals like La Mercè or Castells, where human towers and lively parades celebrate the region’s unique heritage

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Barcelona’s weather patterns

Where to Book

  • Cows grazing at Montgarri Sanctuary in Val d’Aran, Catalonia

  • Tamarit Castle and beaches, Tarragona, Catalonia

  • Penedes wine region with a view of the Montserrat range, Catalonia

  • Exploring the Congost de Mont-Rebei along the Noguera Ribagorçana River – Catalonia Tourism

  • Tardor al Berguedà – Catalonia Tourism

  • Cuisine mas el mir - PTCBG/Javi Cabrera/Arxiu Images

  • Tossa de Mar town on Costa Brava Mediterranean coast in Catalonia

  • Cycling in El Delta de L’ebre – Catalonia Tourism

  • Hiking in Aiguestortes and Sant Maurici National Park

  • Picturesque medieval village of Castellfollit de la Roca, Catalonia

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 15℃
  • 15℃
  • 17℃
  • 20℃
  • 23℃
  • 27℃
  • 29℃
  • 29℃
  • 26℃
  • 23℃
  • 18℃
  • 15℃
  • 4
  • 4
  • 5
  • 6
  • 4
  • 3
  • 1
  • 2
  • 4
  • 6
  • 5
  • 3

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

January sees Catalonia at its quietest, with crisp, cool days perfect for exploring cities like Barcelona or Girona. Temperatures typically range from 5°C to 12°C. The region’s mountain resorts in the Pyrenees come alive, offering skiing and snowboarding opportunities for winter sports enthusiasts. For those seeking cultural charm, the Cavalcada de Reis (Three Kings Parade) is a magical event held in towns and cities across the region.

February

As February unfolds, winter festivities continue. The Carnival celebrations, particularly in Sitges, bring colour and excitement with flamboyant parades and parties. Coastal towns are less crowded, making it an excellent time for a peaceful retreat. Though chilly, the mild Mediterranean climate ensures days are often bright and pleasant.

March

March heralds the arrival of spring, with temperatures starting to climb to around 10°C to 18°C. Wildflowers begin to bloom in the countryside, making it a delightful time for hiking in the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone. Girona and Tarragona offer a quieter cultural escape before the Easter crowds arrive.

April

By April, Catalonia transforms with warmer days and blossoming landscapes. Temperatures hover around 12°C to 20°C, and the Easter period brings traditional Semana Santa processions. The Sant Jordi Festival, Catalonia’s version of Valentine’s Day, takes place on April 23rd, when streets are filled with books and roses in celebration of love and literature.

May

May is a time of warmth and vibrant greenery. Temperatures range from 15°C to 24°C, making it perfect for exploring vineyards in the Penedès wine region or cycling along the Costa Brava. Many towns host local food festivals celebrating Catalonia’s rich culinary heritage, from fresh seafood to artisanal cheeses.

June

In June, the summer season begins in earnest, with temperatures climbing to 18°C to 28°C. The beaches along the Costa Dorada and Costa Brava are at their best. The Nit de Sant Joan (St. John’s Eve) on June 23rd is a fiery celebration marked by bonfires, fireworks, and late-night revelry across the region.

July

July is hot and lively, with temperatures averaging 22°C to 31°C. Summer festivals dominate the calendar, including the Grec Festival in Barcelona, which showcases music, theatre, and dance. Coastal towns like Cadaqués and Tossa de Mar are perfect for seaside relaxation or water sports.

August

By August, Catalonia reaches peak summer heat, with temperatures often between 23°C and 33°C. While popular destinations like Barcelona can be busy, smaller inland villages and mountain areas offer respite. The Festa Major de Gràcia in Barcelona transforms the Gràcia neighborhood into a vibrant display of decorated streets and community spirit.

September

September ushers in the start of autumn, with milder temperatures of 18°C to 27°C. The grape harvest begins, and wine tours are in full swing across Catalonia’s vineyards. The Mercè Festival, Barcelona’s biggest annual event, takes place in late September, offering a spectacular array of concerts, fireworks, and traditional human towers (castells).

October

In October, the landscape is painted in autumnal hues, and temperatures cool to around 14°C to 22°C. This is an ideal month for exploring Catalonia’s medieval towns like Besalú or attending the Sitges Film Festival, one of the world’s most prestigious fantasy and horror film festivals.

November

November brings cooler days, with temperatures between 10°C and 18°C. This quieter month is ideal for exploring Catalonia’s historic sites, such as the Roman ruins in Tarragona or the striking Monastery of Montserrat. Truffle season also begins, attracting food lovers to markets and restaurants offering this prized delicacy.

December

December is a festive time, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 14°C. Christmas markets, such as the Fira de Santa Llúcia in Barcelona, fill the air with holiday cheer. It’s also the season for hearty Catalan dishes, such as escudella i carn d’olla (a traditional meat and vegetable stew), providing warmth and comfort during the chilly evenings.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

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