What to do in Barcelona in October

October arrives in Barcelona with a special energy, an energy that makes you breathe differently. The intense heat disappears and the city fills with culture, music, markets and a great atmosphere. It’s that time of year when you feel like going out to discover new places, try new flavours or get carried away by an impromptu concert.

This October, Barcelona offers a wide range of activities to enjoy, whether you live here or are just visiting for a few days.

1.Oktoberfest Barcelona: beer, music and good vibes

  • Fira Montjuïc – Plaça Espanya
  • From 2 to 19 October

The Bavarian spirit lands once again in Barcelona. The Oktoberfest It’s back with litres of beer, live music, sausages, pretzels and the best festive atmosphere. You don’t need to travel to Munich to enjoy beer and the liveliest party of the autumn.

Admission is free, but if you are going as a group, it is best to reserve a table… They fill up quickly on weekends!

 

️2. 48-hour Open House BCN: discover architectural secrets

  • 26th and 27th October

For one weekend, Barcelona opens the doors of
buildings and spaces that are normally closed to the public.
. Modernist houses, converted factories, design studios, terraces with views… A genuine free architectural tour that will make you see the city through different eyes.

You can consult the event website and plan your visits carefully, as some buildings require prior registration.

3. Mercat de Mercats: local flavour in every bite

  • Cathedral Avenue
  • From 18 to 20 October

If you enjoy eating, this is the plan for you. Market of Markets brings together the best producers, chefs and market stalls right in the city centre. Tapas, wines, workshops, show cooking and lots of local atmosphere.

It’s a great time to try seasonal produce: mushrooms, chestnuts, sweet potatoes… pure autumn!

4. Sitges Fantastic Film Festival

  • Sitges (40 minutes from Barcelona)
  • From 9 to 19 October

A classic event that attracts thousands of film buffs every year. Horror, science fiction, fantasy and lots of costumes. Although it is held in Sitges, it is well worth the trip, just half an hour away by train.

If you go in the last few days, the Halloween atmosphere can already be felt all along the promenade.

 

5. Jazz & live music: autumn sounds good

  • Jamboree, Harlem Jazz Club, Palau de la Música…
  • Throughout October

October is also
jazz
month. in Barcelona. Small venues with intimate concerts, festivals and nights that end with applause and glasses of wine.

If you like classic jazz or fusion, take a look at the
Jamboree’s
programme: every week there are hidden gems.

6. Castanyada and Halloween: two traditions in one city

  • Throughout Barcelona
  • From 30 to 31 October

The end of the month is filled with pumpkins, costumes and the smell of roasted chestnuts. In the neighbourhoods you will see stalls selling
panellets
,
chestnuts
and
sweet potatoes,
while bars and clubs are transformed to celebrate Halloween in the Catalan style.

A good plan is to start at the
Mercat de Sant Antoni
or Gràcia, with sweets and sweet wine, and finish at a themed night-time party.

 

7. Relaxed plan: wandering around aimlessly

October is the perfect month to rediscover the city at a leisurely pace. Stroll through the From
Born
or the
Gothic Quarter
, climb up
to Montjuïc
, enjoy the sunset from the
Carmel bunkers
, or lose yourself among the colours of
Parc de la Ciutadella.

Stop at a terrace with a light blanket and order a latte or a midday vermouth. A perfect autumn plan in Barcelona.

Get to Barcelona with the Aerobús,
travelling
from the airport to the city centre in just 30 minutes.. ¿A qué esperas para vivir un otoño en la ciudad condal?