Carnival in Barcelona and Sitges 2026: a complete guide to enjoying the festivities

In this guide, you will find everything you need to plan your trip: key dates, the best areas to experience Carnival, how to get around and practical tips to enjoy it all without feeling overwhelmed. With a good base in Barcelona, it is easy to combine both destinations and experience Carnival in Barcelona and Sitges on the same trip.

Key dates

In 2026, Carnival in Barcelona takes place from 12 to 18 February. Sitges starts earlier, from 7 to 18 February, with its main parades on Sunday 15 and Tuesday 17 February. If you are planning a long weekend, 13 to 15 February is the most popular and lively option.

Where to experience Carnival in Barcelona

Barcelona does not have a single large parade. Instead, each neighbourhood celebrates Carnival in its own way, which is part of its appeal. Some areas tend to have a stronger atmosphere or make it easier to move around the city. Discover our accommodation options where you can stay during Carnival.

1) Gràcia: Carnival with a neighbourhood feel. The Vila de Gràcia is known for its colourful activities and strong local character. If you enjoy a more authentic atmosphere, this is a great area to experience Carnival. Expect lively squares, pedestrian streets, batucadas and plenty of people in costume from the afternoon onwards.

Our three bedroom apartment on Gran de Gràcia can be an ideal option for you and your family.

2) City centre (Ciutat Vella): where Carnival meets sightseeing. If you stay near the Gothic Quarter, El Born or El Raval, everything is set up for spontaneous plans. You can go for a walk, sit down for dinner and suddenly find yourself crossing paths with a Carnival parade. It is also the most convenient area if you want to combine Carnival with museums, viewpoints or a tapas crawl.

Our superior two bedroom apartment on Pelai Street can be an ideal option for your group of friends. Centrally located and full of character.

3) Poblenou: ideal for culture focused plans. Poblenou is the perfect neighbourhood if your trip has a strong cultural angle. In February, it also hosts Llum BCN, the city’s light festival, which takes place from 6 to 8 February. If you extend your stay by a few days, you can easily combine nighttime art experiences with a Carnival weekend without changing neighbourhoods.

If you are looking for luxury and easy access in the heart of the area, discover our deluxe five bedroom apartment. A 210 square metre gem with plenty of space for your group.

Guide to our accommodations in Barcelona: https://www.youstylish.com/en/see-all/

Carnival in Sitges: how to get there, which parade to choose and where to eat

Carnival in Sitges feels like a full-scale show. Large floats, bold makeup, loud music and an atmosphere that says tonight is all about going out. The two main parades take place on Sunday 15, with a children’s parade at midday and the adult parade in the afternoon and evening, and on Tuesday 17, again with both children’s and adult parades.

How to get there from Barcelona.

The easiest option is to take the Rodalies commuter train on the R2 Sud line and get off at Sitges. The journey takes no more than 30 minutes.

Which parade to choose.

If it is your first time, Sunday is the classic choice, with a lively atmosphere and the whole town in full party mode. If you prefer something a little more low key, the Tuesday parade is just as impressive and often has fewer weekend visitors.

Food and drink ideas without tourist traps.

If your plan in Sitges includes dinner by the beach, booking in advance is highly recommended. Then all that is left is to dance, enjoy Carnival and savour every moment.

Where to stay for easy connections

The best strategy is to stay in central, well connected areas such as Eixample, Gràcia, Poblenou or around Plaça Catalunya and Urquinaona. This makes it easy to enjoy neighbourhood plans, go out for dinner at a relaxed pace and head to Sants the next day to catch the train to Sitges without any hassle.

At YouStylish, we provide everything you need. Stylish apartments designed for real rest, with locations that let you experience Barcelona like a local and at your own pace.

Mini checklist to save

1) Book accommodation with good transport connections, including metro and night buses.

2) Check Rodalies timetables if you are going to Sitges.

3) Keep your costume light: one statement accessory and a simple base outfit.

4) If you are going to Sitges on Sunday, book a restaurant for dinner in advance.

5) Have a late night return plan, either a shared taxi or a train timetable that works for you.