When summer hits hard in Barcelona, finding shade and cool spots becomes part of the daily routine. But there’s no need to hide! The city is full of spaces designed to help you get through the hottest days in the best possible way. Want to discover them? Hola Barcelona takes you there!
What are climate shelters?
They are public spaces where you can find thermal comfort during the hottest hours of the day. Think shady parks full of greenery, libraries with air conditioning, community centers, or museums that are free or affordable, where you can take a break while still enjoying the city. This year, there are more climate shelters than last year, spread across all 10 districts of the city.
Some recommendations to cool off in Barcelona:
Shady parks and gardens
Barcelona has plenty, and some are real urban oases:
- Parc de la Ciutadella: leafy trees, a pond, and lots of space to relax in the shade.
- Turó del Putxet Gardens or Montjuïc: quieter spots with great views and peaceful corners.
- Parc de les Aigües (Horta) or Jardins de la Tamarita (Sarrià-Sant Gervasi): ideal to escape the heat without leaving the city.
Libraries and cultural spaces with air conditioning
Great for reading, relaxing or exploring exhibitions:
- Jaume Fuster Library (Gràcia)
- Sagrada Família Library
- Centre de Cultura Contemporània de Barcelona (CCCB): cool and full of cultural activity
- CaixaForum, Maritime Museum, and many more with accessible entry or free days
Fountains and water zones
- Stroll along the Port Vell or the urban beaches, where the sea breeze helps beat the heat.
- Discover spots with ornamental fountains like the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc.
Tips for enjoying summer in the city
To experience summer in Barcelona comfortably, it’s important to follow a few practical tips. Avoid going outdoors during peak heat hours, especially between 12 p.m. and 5 p.m. Stay hydrated and always carry a reusable water bottle — you’ll find plenty of public fountains around the city to refill it.
Wear light, comfortable clothing in light colors to stay cool and allow your body to breathe. And to get around the city, public transport is your best option: efficient, sustainable, and air-conditioned, making your journeys more pleasant on hot summer days. Plus, we’ve listed some of the best parks to relax and cool off!
Get around without overheating
Remember that with the Hola Barcelona Travel Card, you can travel unlimited and efficiently across the entire city — perfect for hopping from one climate shelter to another while making the most of summer in Barcelona.
