16 Top Things To Do In Spain In September For A Perfect Late-Summer Trip

Exploring the cities is an amazing thing to do in Spain

Spain is the most popular country in Europe, which is also the largest country in the southern part of Europe. Spain is known for its cultural centres of Europe, with many beaches, dance, music and bullfights with various festivals throughout the year. There are many things to do in Spain in September, with many beautiful beaches, fascinating cities, hiking trails and exploring years of history. The weather during September is a bit cooler, which makes it really enjoyable for various outdoor activities. There is also less crowd observed in this month, which is worth visiting to enjoy the good weather.

16 Best Things To Do In Spain In September

Here are some of the amazing things to do in Spain in September to enjoy and create a number of unforgettable memories.

1. Attend The Euskal Jaiak

 Attending the Euskal Jaiak festival is a fun thing to do in Spain

Photo: Asier Sarasua Aranberri / Wikimedia Commons

Euskal Jaiak are a series of celebrations held in the Basque Country to showcase Basque culture, traditions, and heritage. It organises long forms of events to bring together the best culture, sports, culinary arts and many more local traditions. It is one of the most popular festival highlights in Spain that showcases unique heritage and culture. There are many dance forms and other elements showcased in this festival, which has a colourful and vibrant atmosphere.

Major Examples: San Sebastián, Zarautz, Ordizia, Hernani

2. Embark On Hiking In Pyrenees

Hiking trails in the Pyrenees is an amazing thing to do in Spain

Photo: JLPC / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

The Pyrenees is a famous mountain range stretching more than 430 km from Spain to France that is higher than 3400 m in elevation. These mountains are home to very unique flora and fauna, with many natural resources and scientific facilities available within the mountain range. These are one of the breathtaking things to see in Spain in September. There are also many hiking trails for the entire length of the range where many people go on adventurous trips. There are also short trails available at national parks with many ski resorts to enjoy the amazing landscapes.

Famous Hiking Trails: Cirque de Gavarnie, Pic du Midi d’ Ossau, Lac d’ Oo

3. Relax In Menorca

 Relaxing on the Menorca island is an amazing thing to do in Spain

Photo: Ben Salter / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Menorca is one of the islands of the Balearic, which is in the Mediterranean Sea. This island is known for its endless beaches that are miles long with sandy crescent pine trees and many more. This place has some of the best leaders in Europe and even in the world. It is easy to explore the entire island during the stay. There is also a biosphere reserve and ecotourism to protect the beauty organised by UNESCO. There are also cruise ships available on this island to make the experience more fun besides exploring the beaches in Spain here.

Location: Minorca, Balearic Islands, Spain
Activities: Boat tour, kayaking, diving, hiking
Famous Beaches: Cala Macarelleta, Cala Mitjana, Playa Arenal D’en Castell

4. Enjoy Camping In Sierra Nevada

 Camping in Sierra Nevada is the best thing to do in Spain

Photo: Trougnouf (Benoit Brummer) / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Sierra Nevada is a famous mountain range in the Andalusia province of Granada. It has the highest point of Spain at an elevation of 3479 m. It is a popular tourist destination with its high peaks, where there are many ski resorts for the tourists. There is also a national park where many activities, like camping, are available for tourists. It is a really amazing experience to plan camping in this mountain range to enjoy the high temperature and because of its breathtaking views.

Location: Sierra Nevada, 18451, Granada, Spain
Famous Camping Sites: Gigantea campground, Yosemite National Park

5. Visit The Royal Palace Of Madrid

Exploring the palace of Madrid is a unique thing to do in Spain

Photo: Bernard Gagnon / Wikimedia Commons

The Royal Palace of Madrid is the official residence of the Spanish royal family, but it is now used only for state ceremonies. It is the largest in Europe and one of the largest in the world, with more than 135,000 square metres and 3,418 rooms. This palace showcases the rich history of Spain. The best place is known for its stunning architecture with amazing interiors to explore. There are also various other great historical and artistically significant collections in the palace to explore, with much furniture, silverware and many more throughout history.

Location: Royal Palace of Madrid, Centro, 28071 Madrid, Spain
Timings: 10 AM – 6 PM

6. Enjoy Wine Tasting

Taking a walk around the vineyards in Rioja is a fun thing to do in Spain

Photo: Gurrea / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Rioja wine is known for its large wine production and popularity in Spain. During the month of September, most of the wine is produced and various activities like wine tasting are organised for the visitors during the process of making. Red wine and white wine are both made, which are known for their complexity and ageing potential. There has been a legacy of winemaking in Rioja from nearly Roman times. This place is known to be the fine wine capital of Spain, which is rich in its tradition and vibrant atmosphere.

Location: La Rioja, Spain
Timings: 10 AM – 4 PM

7. Explore Alhambra Gardens

A stunning view of the palace in Alhambra Gardens

Photo: Jebulon / Wikimedia Commons

Alhambra Gardens is a palace and a fortress complex that is one of the most famous monuments with Islamic architecture and one of the best-preserved places of the Islamic world in history. This complex began in 1238 and later went through many renovations. It is known for its amazing architecture and is surrounded by greenery, which is like a paradise. It is also known as the Red Castle, believed to be built on Roman ruins.

Location: Alhambra, C. Real de la Alhambra
Timings: 8:30 AM – 8 PM

8. Visit Granada

An amazing architectural setting in Granada

Photo: Mihael Grmek / Wikimedia Commons

Granada is one of the most frequently visited tourist centres in space that is known for its artistic monuments and amazing architecture. It is located in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada mountains, where the architecture dates back to the medieval times. There are many famous churches, convents, monasteries, palaces and many more with Renaissance and Baroque architecture. This place is ideal for exploring the rich heritage and culture throughout various time periods.

Location: Granada, Spain
Famous Attractions: Alhambra, Nasrid Palaces, Royal Chapel

9. Attend The Moros Y Cristianos Festival

 A view of the parades in the festival on the streets of Spain

Photo: Adolfo A. G. Galache / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Moros y Cristianos Festival is a popular festival celebrated in several cities in September that commemorates the period when Christians reconquered Spain from Muslims. People taking part in this festival wear different outfits and carry out activities through it during the daytime. There are three different genres of music played during the rates and two types of marches are performed. The festival is filled with fireworks, medieval music and shots of gunpowder, which ends with a Christian winning around a castle.

Famous Places Of Celebration: Alicante, Almeria, Valencia

10. Visit The Guggenheim Museum

The unique architecture of the Guggenheim Museum

Photo: Jose María Ligero Loarte / Wikimedia Commons

The Guggenheim Bilbao Museum is known to have one of the world’s most spectacular buildings in the style of deconstructivism, which is considered to be a masterpiece of the 20th century. It is one of the several museums affiliated with the foundation that displays modern and contemporary art. This museum was inaugurated in 1997 with more than 250 contemporary works of art being displayed. It is one of the largest museums in Spain, built along the Nervion River.

Location: Abandoibarra Etorb., 2, Abando, 48009 Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain
Timings: 10 AM – 7 PM

11. Explore The Teide National Park

A stunning view from the Teide National Park

Photo: Daniel Tenerife / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Teide National Park, which has the highest peak in Spain, is known for its unique flora, stargazing activities, volcanic landscapes, hiking trails, cable car rides and many more. This park is also considered to be the third oldest park in Spain. A part of the 12 treasures of Spain recognised by the World Heritage site of UNESCO. This is the best place to explore for nature and adventure enthusiasts with many activities.

Location: Calle Doctor Sixto Perera Gonzalez, 25, 38300 La Orotava, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM

12. Savour The Coca Cola Music Experience

A vibrant crowd dancing under colorful lights at the Coca-Cola Music Experience festival in Madrid.

Photo: Julia García García / Wikimedia Commons

The Coca-Cola Music Experience is an electrifying way to dive into Spain’s youthful energy. Held at Recinto John Lennon in Getafe, this two-day festival brings together global pop, reggaeton, and electronic artists. These include Rauw Alejandro, Myke Towers, and Manuel Turizo. With a crowd of 50,000 fans, massive LED stages, and a buzzing festival vibe, it’s more than just a concert. It’s a celebration of music, dance, and connection. If you wish to attend one of the best music festivals in Spain in September, this event promises unforgettable beats under the Spanish sky.

Location: Recinto John Lennon, Getafe, Madrid
Timings: September 12 – 13; gates open at 1 PM, concerts begin at 4 PM

13. Admire The Architecture Of Roman Aqueduct

The towering granite arches of the Segovia Aqueduct glowing in the golden light of a September afternoon.

Photo: Benjamin Smith / Wikimedia Commons

Step into ancient history with a visit to the Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the most iconic places to visit in Spain. Built in the 1st or 2nd century AD, this engineering marvel stretches over 15 kilometers, with 167 granite arches rising nearly 29 meters high at its peak. September’s golden light makes it the perfect time to admire its symmetry from Plaza del Azoguejo or climb to the Mirador del Postigo for panoramic views. Best of all, it’s free to visit with a timeless backdrop for photos, quiet reflection, or simply marveling at Roman beauty.

Location: Plaza del Azoguejo, Segovia, Castile and León
Timings: 24*7

14. Celebrate La Mercè Festival In Barcelona

A human tower (castell) rising in Plaça de Sant Jaume during Barcelona’s La Mercè Festival.

Photo: Aniol / Wikimedia Commons

Barcelona bursts into life every September with La Mercè, a week-long festival honouring the city’s patron saint. The streets fill with castellers (human towers), correfocs (fire runs), giant parades, and free concerts across iconic venues like Plaça de Sant Jaume and Parc de la Ciutadella. Don’t miss the Piromusical, a dazzling fireworks and music show at Montjuïc. Whether you’re dancing with locals, watching dragons breathe sparks, or enjoying open-air jazz, La Mercè is a joyful, chaotic, and deep celebration.

Location: Various venues across Barcelona, including Plaça de Sant Jaume, Parc de la Ciutadella, and Montjuïc
Timings: September 19 – 24; events run from morning till late night

15. Relax On The Beaches Of Costa Brava

A tranquil cove on Costa Brava with turquoise waters, golden sand, and pine-covered cliffs, one of the best things to see in Spain in September.

Photo: Txllxt TxllxT / Wikimedia Commons

September is a dream month to unwind on the beaches of Costa Brava, when the summer crowds thin and the Mediterranean charm still blooms. From the golden sands of Platja de Llafranc to Cala Sa Boadella, this rugged coastline offers something for every beach lover. Whether you’re kayaking along cliffs, snorkelling in turquoise waters, or simply soaking up the sun, Costa Brava in September is serenity with a splash of adventure. With spectacular sunsets and unforgettable seafood, visiting these beaches in Spain is an unforgettable experience.

Best Beaches To Explore: Platja de Llafranc, Cala Sa Boadella, Platja de Treumal, Cala del Senyor Ramon, Platja de Castell

16. Be At Awe At Valencia Cathedral

The beautiful façade of Valencia Cathedral with its Gothic arches and the Miguelete Tower rising behind, one of the best things to see in Spain in September.

Photo: Diego Delso / Wikimedia Commonss

In the heart of Valencia’s old town, Valencia Cathedral stands as a spiritual and architectural treasure. Built atop a former mosque, this Gothic masterpiece houses the Holy Chalice, believed by many to be the actual Holy Grail. Step inside to admire Renaissance frescoes, Baroque chapels, and the Miguelete Tower, which rewards climbers with sweeping city views. In September, the cathedral’s cool stone interiors offer a peaceful escape from the sun. Its daily masses and guided tours invite quiet reflection. Whether you’re religious or simply curious, visiitng this is one of the best things to do in Valencia Spain.

Location: Plaza de la Reina, Valencia
Timings: Mon – Fri: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM, Sat: 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM, Sun & Holidays: 2 PM – 5:30 PM

There are many things to do in Spain in September, which is known for its mountain ranges, hiking trails, architecture and historically significant places. There are also many festivals during this month where the tourists can enjoy and learn about the culture of the locals. With some of the most beautiful landscapes and amazing architecture to explore, don’t worry about what to do in Spain in September during your visit. To know more about these activities and for further information to plan your trip, visit TripXL to create some of the best memories.

Cover Photo: Felix König / Wikkimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The climate in Spain in September is warm with sunny skies, which is mild weather with fewer crowds that is ideal to explore.
Some of the famous cities to visit in Spain are Barcelona, Madrid, Seville, Granada, Valencia and many more.
Some of the most famous food items to try in Spain are paella, tortilla, gazpacho and patatas bravas.
There are many activities to do in Spain in September, like hiking, camping, attending festivals, wine tasting and many more.
Some of the famous festivals to attend in Spain in September are Moros y Cristianos, Euskal Jaiak, San Sebastian Film Festival and many more.
Yes, September is great for music lovers, with pleasant weather and festivals like Coca Cola Music Festival, La Mercè Festival and Moros Y Cristianos Festival, attracting international and local artists.
Spain celebrates events like La Mercè in Barcelona, honouring the city's patron saint with music, parades, fireworks, and human towers, along with regional harvest festivals and food fairs.
Cala Sa Boadella and Platja de Castell are great for kayaking and snorkelling in Costa Brava.

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