What to do in Barcelona in October 2026: four plans to enjoy autumn
Are you thinking about a getaway to Barcelona in October? Autumn brings new opportunities to explore the city, discover its traditions, and enjoy its cultural offerings. Between a stroll through the Eixample district, a visit to a museum, and relaxing on a terrace, you can also make time for some of the month's most interesting events. This October 2026, we suggest four plans in Barcelona: toast at Oktoberfest, discover La Rambla during the Festa del Roser, explore the architecture with the 48-hour Open House, and end the month celebrating La Castanyada and Halloween. Choose the dates that suit you best and start planning your next visit.
1. Oktoberfest Barcelona: beer, Bavarian cuisine and a festive atmosphere
When: from September 24 to October 11, 2026, Thursday to Sunday.
Where: Fira Barcelona Gran Via, in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat.
Oktoberfest Barcelona is the perfect option for those looking to add a festive and culinary experience to their getaway. Inspired by Bavarian tradition, it combines beer, food, and music in an atmosphere designed for sharing a table and enjoying good company.
In 2026, the event moves to a new location at Fira Barcelona Gran Via in L'Hospitalet de Llobregat. Keep this in mind when planning your trip: it's important to refer to the Gran Via venue when checking directions. The event runs until October 11th and is open from Thursday to Sunday.
You can book this plan for after a morning of sightseeing or make it the starting point for a getaway with friends. Before you go, check the sessions, access requirements, and table reservation options on the event's official website.
2. Festa del Roser: discover La Rambla in bloom
When: from October 3 to 11, 2026.
Where: La Rambla and various spaces in its surroundings, in Barcelona.
La Rambla is one of those places that almost everyone includes on their first visit to Barcelona. However, during the Festa del Roser, it's worth exploring it with a different perspective.
The main festival of the promenade, organized by Amics de La Rambla, brings together cultural activities, culinary offerings, and popular events. Flowers play a starring role thanks to La Rambla en Flor (La Rambla in Bloom), which decorates facades and unique spaces with the collaboration of organizations, businesses, and residents. The 2026 edition also pays tribute to the flower vendors of the promenade.
In addition to admiring the decorations, you can check the routes and tours in the program to learn more about the history of La Rambla. Among the announced events is the open house at the Ateneu Barcelonès on October 7th, from 11 am to 7 pm . Some activities have limited capacity or require registration, so it's advisable to check availability before planning your day.
Our suggestion is to dedicate a morning or afternoon to it and then continue exploring the streets of the historic center. This way you can combine the festivities with a stroll through the Gothic Quarter or the Raval, taking breaks as you like.
You will find the activities and their access conditions here.
3. 48h Open House Barcelona: a weekend to discover architecture
When: October 24 and 25, 2026.
Where: various buildings and spaces in Barcelona.
If you enjoy observing buildings, imagining what lies behind their doors, or learning about the history of the places you visit, mark the 48h Open House Barcelona on your calendar.
This festival brings architecture closer to the public through open houses, guided tours, and activities. It's an opportunity to spend a weekend exploring the city's heritage and discovering spaces from a different perspective. The 2026 edition takes place on October 24 and 25.
One of the confirmed events is the Arús Public Library, located at Passeig de Sant Joan, 26. It will open its doors on Saturday, October 24, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., with free admission and no prior reservation required. During the day, you can explore its spaces and discover the architectural and heritage value of the building.
To plan your itinerary, we recommend choosing a few places to visit and grouping them by area. Leaving time between each visit will allow you to enjoy each space and make some discoveries along the way.
Check the program here to see the participating buildings, schedules and access conditions for each activity.
4. La Castanyada and Halloween: two ways to celebrate October 31
When: October 31, 2026, All Saints' Eve.
Where: various locations in Barcelona.
The last day of October combines two ways of celebrating: the tradition of La Castanyada and the atmosphere of Halloween.
La Castanyada is an opportunity to sample some of the most characteristic flavors of autumn in Catalonia: roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and panellets. These small sweets, especially those made with pine nuts, are an integral part of the celebration, along with Moscatel wine. If you visit Barcelona during this time, you can take a break and discover this culinary tradition.
You can also add a Halloween touch to your getaway and plan a costume party with friends. Both plans can be combined: enjoy a snack with traditional Castanyada flavors, followed by whatever celebration you'd like.
If you're looking for an organized activity, check the schedules of the places you want to visit to confirm dates, recommended ages, and possible reservations.
How to plan your getaway to Barcelona in October
The first few weeks of the month allow you to combine the Festa del Roser with Oktoberfest. If you prefer to focus your visit on the architecture, reserve the weekend of October 24th and 25th. And if you'd like to experience autumn traditions, the end of the month is a great opportunity to sample the flavors of La Castanyada.
Before finalizing your itinerary, check the schedules and conditions of your chosen activities. Then, also leave room for leisurely strolls: exploring the Eixample district, stopping for a coffee, or popping into a shop that catches your eye can all be part of your getaway.
Book your hotel in Barcelona for October and enjoy the benefits of the Club
After a day of sightseeing, you'll want to return to the hotel and relax. At the Barcelona Century Hotel, we're waiting for you at Calle València, 154, right in the heart of the Eixample district, providing you with a convenient base from which to plan your Barcelona adventures.
Book directly on our official website and take advantage of the benefits of staying with us. Plus, if you become a member of the Barcelona Century Club, you'll enjoy a 25% discount on your stay. You can register and access your account to view your booking and the Club's benefits.
Discover the Barcelona Century CLUB or book your next getaway on our website.
Barcelona makes the plans. We'll wait for you so you can rest and continue enjoying the city the next day.
