Barcelona in October: 7 Things to Do This Autumn

Things to do in Barcelona in October

1. Discover Barcelona's architecture during 48h Open House BCN

One of the best reasons to be in Barcelona this October: the 48h Open House Barcelona festival returns on the weekend of 24–25 October 2026, opening the doors of buildings and private spaces across the city that are normally closed to the public. Expect Modernista mansions, contemporary studios and architectural landmarks explained by the architects and volunteers who know them best. Most visits are free, though some require booking in advance, so it's worth planning your route once the programme is published. 

2. Take a day trip to the Sitges Film Festival

Just 40 minutes from Barcelona by train, the seaside town of Sitges hosts one of Europe's most beloved genre film festivals. The Sitges Film Festival 2026 runs from 8 to 18 October, filling the town with fantasy, horror and sci-fi premieres, red carpets and a distinctly playful atmosphere. Even if you're not there for a screening, an afternoon in Sitges pairs perfectly with a beach walk and lunch by the port. 

3. Halloween or Castanyada? Try Barcelona's local tradition

Around 31 October, Barcelona celebrates two things at once. Alongside Halloween, Catalonia keeps its own centuries-old tradition alive: La Castanyada, when roasted chestnuts, sweet potato and panellets fill the neighbourhood markets. Local markets across the city, from Sant Andreu to Hostafrancs, run tastings and family activities through late October, and the Encants Market keeps the celebration going with chestnut vendors and a haunted tunnel for younger visitors. It's the most Barcelona way to mark the end of October. 

4. Enjoy Barcelona outdoors without the summer heat

October is arguably the city's best month for being outside. Mild temperatures make it ideal for walking up Montjuïc, cycling through Collserola, strolling the Barceloneta boardwalk, or taking a boat out along the coast, all without the summer crush. Barcelona's tourism board consistently points to autumn as the sweet spot for enjoying the Mediterranean and the city's green spaces at a relaxed pace.

5. Taste autumn in Barcelona

No festival required for this one. October brings seasonal produce to the city's markets and menus: mushrooms, chestnuts, panellets, hearty stews and the first vermuts of the cooler months. Spend a morning at Poblenou Market, or book a table for a slow, tapas-heavy lunch. It's one of the most flavourful ways to feel the season change.

6. Rediscover Gaudí and Barcelona's cultural side

With the summer queues behind you, October is a great time to finally take in Barcelona's essentials, or revisit them properly. Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, La Pedrera and the city's museums are all easier to enjoy without the peak-season rush, and the softer autumn light makes for some of the best photos of the year.

7. Enjoy Barcelona like a local

The best way to experience all of the above is to live the city rather than just visit it, and that starts with where you stay. YouStylish apartments sit in Barcelona's best neighbourhoods, so whichever of these seven plans you choose, you're already close to it: minutes from Passeig de Gràcia's Gaudí houses, an easy walk to the Gothic Quarter, and a short ride from Montjuïc or the coast. Staying in an apartment instead of a hotel also means shopping at your neighbourhood market, having breakfast on your own schedule, and having a proper space to unwind between plans.

Two we'd suggest for an October stay:

- Superior three-bedroom apartment, Passeig de Gràcia (Ref: B363) — steps from Casa Batlló and La Pedrera, and a comfortable walk to the Gothic Quarter. Ideal for families or small groups wanting a central base for Open House BCN and Gaudí's landmarks.

- One-bedroom apartment with terrace, Diputació (Ref: B122) — a great-value option in the Eixample with its own terrace, perfect for enjoying October's mild evenings after a day exploring the city.

And if you'd rather not organise the details yourself, our Concierge service can arrange private tours, tastings and experiences around whichever of these plans you choose. 

Plan your autumn trip to Barcelona

Between Open House BCN, Sitges, La Castanyada and everything in between, October gives you a fuller, quieter side of Barcelona than the summer months ever will. Book your apartment in Barcelona, talk to our concierge team, call us at +34 661 964 231 or write to concierge@youstylish.com.