Barcelona in November: Weather, Events, Tips, & More
Are you planning a trip to Barcelona and wondering if November is a good time of year to visit? You’re in the right place!
I’m a travel blogger that lives in Barcelona, and I can tell you that November is a quieter, yet equally enjoyable month to explore the city.
This month brings cooler weather, fewer tourists, and a chance to experience the city at a slower pace, with lots of cultural events still happening.
In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Barcelona in November, from the weather and events to activities and packing tips. Let’s get started!
Is November a Good Month to Visit Barcelona?
Yes, November can be a great time to visit Barcelona if you prefer cooler temperatures and a more relaxed atmosphere.
The weather starts to cool down significantly, but it’s still very mild compared to many other parts of Europe or the US.
Plus, the best part is that the tourist crowds tend to be much smaller, and there’s typically lower prices for accommodations.
There are also several cultural events, local festivals, and musical concerts that take place in November, which makes it a good month to visit if you’re looking for a less hectic and more local experience.
Weather in Barcelona in November
Here’s an overview of Barcelona weather in November:
Average Temperatures in Barcelona in November
In November, Barcelona’s average high temperature is around 65°F (18°C), while the average low drops to about 54°F (12°C).
The days are cooler but still comfortable enough to explore, especially if you layer your clothing.
It’s a nice time to walk around the city and explore without the intense heat of summer.
Average Rainfall in Barcelona in November
November isn’t as rainy as it is in Barcelona in October, but you should still be prepared for occasional showers.
The average rainfall is about 1.7 inches (45 mm) over an average of 9.1 rainy days, so bring along a light rain jacket or travel umbrella, just in case.
Average Humidity in Barcelona in November
Humidity levels in November average around 68%. While this can make the air feel a little cooler, it’s far from uncomfortable.
The sea breezes help keep things fresh, even on damp days.
Average Sea Temperatures in Barcelona in November
By November, the Mediterranean Sea cools down to an average temperature of 64°F (18°C), which is most likely going to feel too chilly for swimming.
However, walking along Barcelona’s beaches or enjoying the boardwalk is still doable, especially on sunny days.
Things to Do in Barcelona in November
Here are some of the best Barcelona activities to enjoy during November:
- Explore La Sagrada Familia: La Sagrada Familia is Gaudí’s architectural masterpiece and one of the most famous churches in Barcelona. Touring the basilica is a more enjoyable experience with fewer crowds.
- Walk Through the Gothic Quarter: The narrow streets of Barcelona’s oldest neighborhood are usually less crowded this time of year, which makes it the perfect time for exploring all the fun things to do in the Gothic Quarter.
- Stroll Down La Rambla: Experience the lively atmosphere, street performers, and numerous cafes and shops on La Rambla, which is Barcelona’s most famous street.
- Visit Park Güell: Wander through this unique park adorned with colorful tiles and offering scenic city views. Designed by Antoni Gaudí, Park Güell is a very cool place to explore and enjoy the whimsical architecture and beautiful gardens.
- Enjoy the Beach Promenade: While it will most likely be too cool for a swim, the beaches in Barcelona are perfect for a leisurely walk or enjoying a coffee along the promenade.
- Explore Montjuïc: Take the cable car up to Montjuïc Hill to enjoy stunning views of the city and see Montjuïc Castle, one of the best castles in Barcelona. The cooler temperatures make hiking around the area much more enjoyable compared to the heat of summer.
- Watch an FC Barcelona Game: Experience the excitement of a La Liga match, even if you’re not a die-hard football fan. Watching FC Barcelona play at home is an unforgettable experience that captures the spirit and passion of the city. Note Camp Nou is currently under construction so games are now taking place at Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys at Montjuïc.
Rainy Day Activities in Barcelona
Even if the rain disrupts your plans in November, there are still many fun things to do in Barcelona when it rains:
- Tour the Gaudí Buildings: Explore Casa Batlló or Casa Milà (La Pedrera) to admire Gaudí’s genius from the inside, while staying dry and immersing yourself in the city’s architectural masterpieces.
- Visit Museums: From Barcelona art museums like the Picasso Museum or the Catalan National Museum of Art (MNAC) to playful museums like the Chocolate Museum or the Moco Museum, there are lots of interesting options to keep you occupied on a rainy day.
- Take a Cooking Class: Learn how to make traditional Catalan and Spanish dishes and sample local foods while staying dry indoors. Cooking classes often include a trip to a local market, paella making, and unlimited sangria.
- Explore La Boqueria Market: La Boqueria is one of the most famous food markets in Barcelona and a great place to explore on a rainy day. Sample fresh produce and local delicacies, or grab a snack at one of the many food stalls.
- Go Shopping: Explore Barcelona’s shopping scene in indoor shopping centers like Arenas de Barcelona or Maremagnum for Spanish clothing stores and local shops.
- Check Out the Barcelona Aquarium: Located in Port Vell, the Barcelona Aquarium is a great way to spend a rainy day. It has a transparent tunnel surrounded by sharks and offers an immersive experience through its many exhibits.
- See a Flamenco Show: Embrace the passionate dance of flamenco at one of Barcelona’s many indoor flamenco shows. It’s an authentic cultural experience that you won’t want to miss.
Special Events in Barcelona in November
Although November is a quieter month in Barcelona, you’ll still find a lot of notable events happening:
- La Castanyada: Celebrated from October 31-November 1, this traditional Catalan festival marks the transition from autumn to winter with roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and panellets, which are some of Barcelona’s most famous foods to try.
- All Saints’ Day: November 1st is a public holiday for All Saints’ Day (Tots Sants in Catalan), so expect some closures around the city. You may see flower vendors in the streets and locals may go to the cemetery and spend time with family to remember loved ones who have passed away.
- Barcelona International Jazz Festival: Continuing into November, the Barcelona Jazz Festival celebrates the best of jazz music in Barcelona. With performances by international and local artists at various venues around the city, it’s a must for music lovers.
- In-Edit Film Festival: Taking place from October 23-November 2 at the MOOBY Aribau Multicines Cinemas, the In-Edit Film Festival is dedicated to musical documentary films.
- Asian Film Festival: Taking place from October 29-November 9, the annual Asian Film festival celebrates Asian cinema, featuring screenings, roundtables, and presentations from various directors and filmmakers.
- MIRA Digital Arts Festival: Taking place from November 7-8 at Montjuïc, the MIRA Digital Arts Festival showcases digital art, music, and technology through concerts, performances, workshops, installations, and more.
- MY Coffee Awards: Coffee lovers won’t want to miss the MY Coffee Awards, taking place from November 7-9. This annual event brings together Barcelona’s best coffee shops, roasters, and baristas for workshops, tastings, and competitions.
- World Press Photo Barcelona Exhibition: Running from November 7-December 14, the World Press Photo Barcelona Exhibition displays award-winning photographs from around the world. Hosted at CCCB, this is a must-see for photography enthusiasts.
- l’Alternativa Film Festival: Taking place from November 13-23, the l’Alternativa Film Festival is an independent film festival in Barcelona with on-site screenings and activities dedicated to artistic freedom in film.
- Cruilla Concerts: Barcelona’s Cruilla Festival is a music festival that usually takes place in summer but has expanded to include additional Cruilla Concerts throughout the year, including some dates in November.
Clothes to Wear in Barcelona in November
In November, when planning how to dress in Barcelona, you’ll need to pack a combination of fall and winter clothing.
For women, I’d recommend bringing long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, and light jackets for daytime, paired with jeans, pants, or skirts with tights.
In the cooler evenings, temperatures can drop, so a heavier coat and a light scarf might be necessary.
Men should also plan on wearing layers, with comfortable pants or jeans, long-sleeve shirts, and jackets for daytime. A warmer coat will come in handy for cooler nights out, especially if you’re planning to walk around the city after dark.
Comfortable closed-toed walking shoes like sneakers, flats, or boots are good for exploring the city’s streets.
What to Pack for Barcelona in November
Here’s a quick list of essentials for your Barcelona November trip:
- Umbrella: November isn’t the wettest month, but you should still bring a travel-sized umbrella in case of sudden rain showers.
- Warm Layers: The temperatures can get chilly, especially in the evenings, so make sure to pack lots of layers, including some sweaters and jackets.
- Closed-Toed Shoes: Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring the city, and closed-toed ones will keep your feet warm and dry if it rains.
- Anti-Theft Bag: While Barcelona is generally very safe, pickpocketing is unfortunately pretty common. You’ll definitely want to bring an anti-theft bag like a belt bag or crossbody purse with secure zippers to keep your belongings safe. I personally bought this belt bag with an RFID blocking pocket and can’t recommend it enough!
- Phone Leash: In addition to an anti-theft bag, I wouldn’t come to Barcelona without a phone leash to secure your phone. Phones are easily stolen out of your hands or if you leave them on a restaurant table or in your pocket.
- Portable Charger: Exploring the city can quickly drain your phone battery, so having a portable charger on hand is always a good idea.
- Travel Adapter: Don’t forget your travel adapter if you’re coming from a country that uses different plugs!
Visiting Barcelona in November: FAQs
Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Barcelona in November:
Is Barcelona cold in November?
Barcelona is cooler in the month of November, with highs around 65°F (18°C) and lows around 54°F (12°C), but it’s still mild weather compared to many European cities.
Is November expensive in Barcelona?
November is part of the low season, so you’ll likely find cheaper accommodation and flight prices compared to the peak summer months.
Can you still swim in Barcelona in November?
The sea is too cold for most people to swim in November, but the beaches are still beautiful for walking or lounging.
When is the best time to visit Barcelona?
The best time to go to Barcelona is during the months of May, June, or September when the weather is very pleasant, and the city is slightly less crowded.
Final Thoughts: Barcelona in November Guide
November in Barcelona is a great time to visit if you want to experience the city without the large tourist crowds.
While the weather is cooler and there is a chance of rain, it’s still mild enough for exploring and enjoying the city’s many tourist attractions and outdoor activities.
Plus, towards the end of the month, the city starts to prepare for the holidays with festive events to get you in the holiday spirit.
Don’t miss out on the cultural events like the film festivals and the Jazz Festival, and be sure to pack layers to stay warm and comfortable throughout the day.
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