What to pack for a holiday in Barcelona [2024]
I’ve visited Catalonia in May and in November, and while the weather was mild and fairly warm in both seasons, what you pack for Barcelona should still vary depending on the time of your visit.
What is the weather like in Barcelona?
In May, the average temperature in Barcelona is highs of 23ºC and lows of 16ºC (although it can feel colder at night, especially by the sea.) In November, the average temperature in November is highs of 18ºC and lows of 12ºC.
So while the highest temperature is much higher in summer, the lowest temperature doesn’t drop all that low in the colder months – at least not compared to London!
But before you pack for Barcelona, remember to always check the weather forecast for the time of your holiday. Depending on the conditions, my packing list might not be suitable for the time of your trip.
This is what I packed for my holiday in Barcelona.
On top
In May, I took one t-shirt, two jumpsuits, three day-to-night dresses, and one evening dress. I brought a light cardigan as my outer layer, and a sweatshirt which I only ended up wearing on the flights.
In November, I wore a jumpsuit that was suitable for the day and night, four casual dresses, and a t-shirt. I was in a dress-and-skirt vibe at the time, but t-shirts or long-sleeve tops with trousers is suitable for this time of year.
As an outer layer, I brought a leather jacket and a jumper.
On the bottom
In May, I wore a skirt and a pair of loose cotton trousers, when I wasn’t wearing dresses. It can be cooler at night so trousers are useful to pack, even if it’s super hot in the day.
In November, I brought a maxi skirt and a pair of jeans.
On my feet
In May, I bought a pair of Converse and a pair of sandals that were suitable for both daytime and wearing out for dinner.
In November, I wore a pair of ankle boots and a pair of Converse.
Be sure to remember comfy shoes that can deal with wet weather when you pack for Barcelona. Even though the weather is usually good and the streets are flat and easy to walk around, you'll want something you can wear easily all day.
My full packing list for summer in Barcelona
One jumpsuit
Three casual day-to-night dresses
An evening dress for nicer restaurants
A t-shirt
A pair of loose cotton trousers
A light cardigan as an outer layer
A sweatshirt for travelling in
A pairs of sandals nice enough to wear out for dinner, but comfy for the daytime
A pair of Converse
One day-to-night bag
Sunglasses
3 bikinis
A pair of shorts, trainers, and a sports bra for running
Enough underwear and socks for each day of the trip
A sun hat
Regular daily toiletries + SPF
Books
Chargers and EU adapters
My passport!
My full packing list for autumn in Barcelona
One jumpsuit for a day-to-night outfit
Two casual day-to-night dresses
An evening dress
A t-shirt
A jumper
A maxi skirt
A pair of jeans
A leather jacket
A pair of ankle boots
A pair of Converse
One day-to-night bag
3 bikinis (for the pool, and the beach as the weather was good)
Enough underwear and socks for each day of the trip
Sunglasses
Regular daily toiletries
Books
Chargers and EU adapters
My passport!
Ready to plan your trip? Read my travel itinerary: How we spent one week in Barcelona.