Things to do in Barcelona in August

The rumor says locals escape from the city because it is too hot, crowded and boring! Don’t believe this: there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona in August and not necessarily under the sun.

Barcelona is one of the best European cities for you to spend the summer. The weather is definitely very hot, but the options for you to freshen up and have fun with the locals are unlimited! In this article, I’ve gathered all the best things to do in Barcelona in August I am sure you will enjoy! From celebrating with the locals, watching the night sky to visiting incredible Barcelona landmarks, you will not get bored in the city of Barcelona during the month of August! Although, do not forget your sunscreen, sunglasses and always stay hydrated!

Gràcia, where the streets become magical

For all the locals, one of the things to do in Barcelona in August is to attend the Festes de Gràcia, which is the celebration of our beloved neighbourhood of Gràcia, which takes place every year, around August 15th. This year 2019 edition will happen from August, 15th to the 21st.

Streets are decorated to take part in a contest to see who’s got the most gorgeous decoration. Usually Verdi street gets an award in this competition, but all the streets and balconies taking place in the contest are an absolute must for their creativity, usually with recycled materials!

Another curiosity is that this parade is organised by the neighbours of every street, so you’ll find different shows, at, literally, every corner!

Where Barcelona meets stars

At Observatori Fabra, which is located on the top of the city, just under the peak of the Tibidabo, a really awesome activity is offered to the public for the summer nights: a dinner combined with an astronomical observation.

You can do it during all the summer season, but it would be a great idea to book a dinner at Observatori Fabra during the night of Perseids that happen in the 12th at night, when you’ll be able to enjoy a mesmerizing rain of meteors. Pollution or the weather don’t always allow to make a good observation but it is absolutely worth it taking the risk because you’ll be also able to get breathtaking views from our city.

Get holy protection from the sun

Some people say that the cultural legacy of most European cities consist only on Christian buildings. But these people would be happy about this stereotype because one of the things to do in Barcelona in August is escaping the heat… and churches are an awesome place to rest!

Most temples are free to visit and their big walls are the warranty of a fresh temperature inside. With this in mind, why not discover Santa Maria del Mar, in the Born neighbourhood or Santa Anna, in the Gothic Quarter? They are both free, in the city centre, and aren’t as crowded as the Cathedral or the Sagrada Familia.

Go for an “electronic” brunch

Brunch Electronik -in the park is one of the best things to do in Barcelona in August but also is one of the musts of the summer season!

What is it about? It’s an opportunity to listen to electronic music every Sunday afternoon with your friends and family in the Jardins de Joan Brossa, in an awesome outdoor environment. The ticket prices start at fifteen euros if you buy it in advance! So, if you’re in the city during the month of August, buy your tickets as soon as possible to get the best deals! Also, note that some of the performing artists are still to be announced, but the programme is already pretty promising! Don’t miss this summer event!

The range of artist is really diverse, because there are so many weekends during the summer! But the aspect I think is the most interesting about this event is the “healthy party” mood you’ll find there. Probably, it has something to do with being a daylight party.

Are you looking for even more things to do in Barcelona in August? Don’t hesitate to join us in our walking tours! I’m sure our city will inspire and your local guide will share the best of Barcelona with you, tell you all about its history, show you the best places and make sure you experience the city in the best conditions!