October in Sitges: Film Festival & Travel Guide

October is Sitges' most culturally intense month. The Grape Harvest Festival kicks off the month with wine and tradition, then the International Fantastic Film Festival transforms the town into the world capital of genre cinema for ten days — all with fewer crowds than summer and still very pleasant temperatures.

Why October is special in Sitges

October combines the tail end of good weather (22°C, sea still above 20°C) with the strongest cultural season of the year. Terraces along Passeig de la Ribera stay open, hotels offer better rates than in August and the atmosphere is noticeably more local and relaxed. For lovers of fantastic cinema, wine and culture, October in Sitges is simply unmissable.

Grape Harvest Festival: 2–4 October (65th edition)

The Sitges Grape Harvest Festival (Festa de la Verema) celebrates its 65th edition from 2 to 4 October 2026. For three days, the Passeig de la Ribera, Plaça de la Fragata and the area around Sant Bartomeu church fill with wine tastings, grape-treading contests, the Penedès and Garraf Wine Fair and the traditional habaneras singing night with Torres Brandy cremat. Most events are free; the Wine Fair tasting has a small entry fee. A perfect opportunity to discover Malvasia de Sitges and local Torres wines.

Looking for accommodation in Sitges? Check availability and prices on Booking.com.

Sitges Film Festival: 8–18 October (59th edition)

The Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia celebrates its 59th edition from 8 to 18 October 2026. Widely regarded as the world's best fantastic and horror film festival, it brings directors, actors and thousands of cinephiles to the cinemas of the historic centre.

The 2026 edition pays tribute to the 50th anniversary of Carrie (Brian De Palma) and Who Can Kill a Child? (Narciso Ibáñez Serrador). Main sections include Oficial Fantàstic, Noves Visions, Midnight X-treme (late-night marathons), Anima't (genre animation) and Panorama. The most iconic moment: the Sitges Zombie Walk, Spain's most famous zombie parade, marching through the old town with thousands of costumed participants.

Tickets available at festivaldesitges.com weeks before the event. Price per session: €8–15. Booking popular screenings well in advance is strongly recommended.

Weather in Sitges in October

Highs of 20-22°C and lows of 14°C. The sea stays around 20°C, still suitable for swimming especially in the first half of the month. Rain is uncommon although the Mediterranean autumn can bring occasional showers. Bring a light jacket for evenings. The autumn light makes the historic old town and the church silhouette over the sea especially photogenic.

Where to stay in October

October is mid-season: lower prices than August with an excellent quality of experience. During the Film Festival (8–18 Oct), central hotels fill up fast — book 1–2 months ahead if your dates overlap with the festival. Check availability in our complete Sitges hotels guide.

How to get to Sitges

The most convenient option is the R2 Sud train from Rodalies: it departs from Barcelona Sants every 20-30 minutes and reaches Sitges in about 40 minutes (fare approximately €4.60). During the festival, late-night trains on weekends are very crowded. You can also drive via the C-32 (motorway, toll) or C-31 (no toll). Full details in our how to get to Sitges guide.

Activities in Sitges: Book tours, excursions and experiences on GetYourGuide.

More about Sitges

October is just one reason to visit Sitges. Plan your trip with the complete Sitges Film Festival guide, discover the museums of Sitges, explore what to do in Sitges year-round and find your ideal stay in our Sitges hotels guide.