I’ve only been once, in July. It was hot as hell, but the beach was quite easy to get to when we needed to cool off. There are lots of dark cafes and bars, also, for afternoon siestas.

I would think late autumn would be especially nice in Barcelona. I’d love to go back.

I’ve been living in barcelona for quite awhile now, and although its still warm, in mid-august there’s fabulous parties in the barrio of Gracia. In September the weather is nice, and there’s a week-long city-wide party called La Merce.

Other than that, April, May, and early June are nice as well.

I have been living here for about 7 years, and I would choose Spring. The nicest weather, and not too crowded.

If you can manage to be here for the 23st of Abril that would be great, that’s my favourite day of the year by far.

The best time depends on what you want from your holiday. For me, the best time is the first 3 weeks of June as that period includes the great Primavera Sound festival, which is 3 nights of great pop and rock. Then comes SONAR, which is a festival of new music and electronica. And this year SONAR will be followed by the Summercase festival in Montjuic, another rock and pop blast.

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay, I’d recommend an agency called Athome Barcelona apartments. When I got married here many of my family used their apartments and everyone was delighted with them. All were located in and around the city centre, and yet were quiet enough for lie-ins in the morning. This is the one my mother stayed in: http://www.athome-barcelona.com/apartments-278

late september thru mid october. most tourists have gone away and the locals will be nice to you.