barcelona visit in december

Visiting Barcelona in December

Great weather, catalan christmas fun and fewer tourists….

Editor’s Choice

1. Christmas Markets

2. Cooking Class

3. Flamenco Show

5. Cava Tasting

6. Catch a Footie Match

10. Game of Thrones Tour

14. Park Guell

16. New Year’s Eve

Winter sunshine, wacky Christmas traditions and a chance to see some of the city’s best attractions minus the tourists, make it well worth visiting Barcelona in December. Here’s everything you need to know…

Is December A Good Time to Visit?

With fewer people, and so many great things to do, both during the day and during the night … inside of the city, and outside of it , December is a fine time of year to visit the Catalan capital.

Despite the winter season, the sun usually keeps his hat on, and during the day you could easily find yourself stripping down to a T-shirt and enjoying a cheeky caña (small beer) on of the city’s many romantic street terraces, whilst by night a half decent jacket should be enough to stave off the chills. No scarf required.

Weather in December

With only three days of rain, and an average temperature of 15 degrees Celsius by day (and 9 degrees by night), December is a pleasant month to visit Barcelona, and many travellers will prefer this time of year to the oppressive heat and crowds of the city’s annual summer meltdown .

Such mild winter weather means that it’s very unlikely to snow in Barcelona during December, however, so if you were hoping for a sprinkling of festive snowflakes, better to book your flights to Vienna, Berlin or Krakow instead.

Things to do in December

In terms of things to do, there are plenty of options, whatever the weather , and whatever your inclinations.

Cultural life is in full flight, and in 2023 you’ll find exhibitions dedicated to Dali , Banksy and even Tutankhamun to visit, as well as all your usual options , such as Gaudi’s mind-boggling attractions (considerably less busy this time of year) and a glut of great museums .

December is always a big month for sports events, and while that would usually mean watching Lewandowski and pals running around the Camp Nou, this year the blaugrana home games are taking place in the Lluis Companys Olympic Stadium in Montjuic (as Camp Nou undergoes refurbishment). The city’s second team, RCD Espanyol also have a couple of home games in December.

If you’re willing to take a day trip outside the city , the Vic Medieval Market takes place this time of year, attracting around 100,000 people over a long weekend to take part in medieval food, fun and games.

All that and we didn’t even mention the C-word… yet…

1. Christmas Markets & Traditions

Take a Christmas Markets Tour!

2. Learn How to Cook Spanish Cuisine

BOOK SPANISH COOKING CLASS

3. Enjoy a Flamenco Show

BOOK FLAMENCO TICKETS

4. Visit Gaudi’s Casa Mila at Night

CASA MILA NIGHT TICKETS

5. Get Festive with Cava!

CREATE YOUR OWN CAVA!

6. Catch a Football Match

BUY BARÇA TICKETS

7. Camp Nou Experience

BUY CAMP NOU EXPERIENCE TICKETS

8. Joan Miro Foundation

BUY JOAN MIRO TICKETS

9. Explore the Rest of Montjuic

EXPLORE MONTJUIC

BOOK GAME OF THRONES GIRONA TOUR

11. Dali Museum in Figueres

BOOK DALI DAY TOUR

12. Vic Medieval Fair

13. Go Fishing on the Mediterranean

BOOK FISHING CHARTER

14. Visit Park Guell

BUY PARK GUELL TICKETS

BARCELONA PASS

Along with Sagrada Familia and the Tourist Bus (good for exploring Montjuic), Park Guell is included in the Barcelona Pass . Price €85.

BUY BARCELONA PASS

15. Go Skiing in the Pyrenees

GO SKIING NR. BARCELONA

16. Celebrate New Year’s Eve!

More Winter Inspiration

Not fussed by Christmas… you may prefer to visit in January or February instead then! In which case, check out our other monthly guides.

For even more inspiration for what to do once you’re here, check below…

Rest of Your Trip

For more help planning your trip, be sure to browse our best hotel recommendations , top restaurants and favourite bars .

Related Reading

Barcelona Airport to City

Hotels & Apartments

Events Calendar

Local Restaurants

1 Day in Barcelona

Barcelona Itineraries

About the Author

Duncan established Barcelona Life in 2009, whilst freelancing for the likes of Conde Nast, The Guardian, Easyjet Magazine, CNN Traveller and many more. From interviews with Ferran Adria to revealing the secrets of the city’s poetry brothels, he knows the city inside out… and shares all his best tips right here.

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Why Barcelona In December Is The Best Time To Visit

Posted on Published: July 3, 2020  - Last updated: June 12, 2024

Categories Spain , Europe , Honest Reviews

Barcelona in December is an unbeatable destination to escape the winter cold. It might not be beach weather in Barcelona in December, but it’s warm enough to walk around without boots and a parka !

Plus, there are about half the number of tourists walking around and you might even be able to save some money on your visit ! 

So here are all the reasons why you need to consider travelling to Barcelona in December!

Psst! This blog post contains affiliate links in it which sends me a bit of extra money if you use them… at no extra cost to you!

The Reality of Summers in Barcelona

Barcelona is one of the hottest tourist European destinations in the summer. That doesn’t mean it’s the best time to visit though.

It can go up to a scorching 30+ °C (86°F) in the summer… that’s HOT! Imagine walking around the streets in that heat, most of the time you’ll just be looking for a way to escape it.

So although it might be the perfect time to relax at Barcelonetta beach and drink Sangria, you might not be able to do much else.

Plus don’t even get me started on the number of people that visit Barcelona during the summer months… the streets are so populated it’s hard to go anywhere anyway!

With the influx in tourists during the summer months in Barcelona, you also need to plan your trip much more in advance… as tickets sell out for popular attractions.

P.S. Check out my digital travel planner to stay organized when planning your trip to Barcelona!

Weather In Barcelona in December Is Much More Manageable

December in Barcelona sees arguably the best weather throughout the entire year (in my opinion anyway). As I said, the summer is a scorcher, perfect for the beach but hard for touring.

It might not be beach weather in December, and you’ll have to wear a jacket some days, but it’s nonetheless still beautiful. It’s a moderate 15°C (60°F) and sunny throughout the month.

You can’t wear shorts, but pants and a light sweater are perfect for the whole day!

Barcelona Organized Tours

Book an organized tour in Barcelona to get around, and learn more about the history and culture. Here are the top tours from Viator:

Barcelona City Tour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus →

Park Guell & Sagrada Familia Tour with Skip the Line Tickets →

Walking Tour Through Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter →

For more activities and tours in Barcelona, visit Viator Tours .

Half The Tourists = No Advance Planning Needed

Barcelona in December also sees half the number of tourists than during the summer months. Even in December some attractions were packed; I can only imagine how bad it would be in the summer.

The main bonus of travelling to Barcelona in December is that you don’t have to plan your activities in advance as much. Summer travellers have to book the Sagrada Familia a few weeks in advance (especially if you want first choice of times), otherwise say goodbye to seeing the inside of the church! I

Plan the ultimate vacation

My  digital travel planner template  has everything you need to plan your vacation: research templates, travel planner itinerary, travel budget templates…etc. . You can print it out or use it digitally on your phone, tablet, or computer.

P.S. Get an additional discount on my Etsy shop with my code ATRLOVE !

It’s a very similar case for Gaudi’s other popular attractions like Casa Batllò and Park Güell. You would have to book tickets months in advance normally, but in December, you can book your tickets the day of!

P.S. Thinking of visiting Gaudí’s Casa Batllò? Read my honest review first !

While you’re visiting each attraction, it’s also a much nicer experience. You aren’t crammed into a small apartment or museum with dozens of other people around you. Instead you have all the space and time in the world to visit at your own pace.

Watch Out Though, There’s A Mini High Season In Barcelona December

If you’re in Barcelona around December 6 though, you’re in for a real surprise.

December 6 is Constitution Day in Spain , so a lot of locals are off school and work so they make the trip to Barcelona for the weekend… we learned this the hard way.

The city centre was total madness ! It was so busy, it took us double the time to get anywhere and restaurants were PACKED… This was our first weekend in the city and it was so bad that we swore to ourselves to never go back.

We later learned that locals describe this weekend as a mini high season, replicating what it’s like in the summer, but the rest of December isn’t like that. I couldn’t even imagine spending every day in Barcelona if every day was high season.

The locals were right; once we mustered up the courage to visit the city centre again, there were about half the amount of people. The city was back to low season standards!

Bonus! Save Money Visiting Barcelona In December

Barcelona is an EXPENSIVE city to visit – there’s no hiding from that reality! From the high ticket prices at the attractions to the over priced food and drinks you’ll want to indulge in.

But, visiting Barcelona in December you’ll be traveling during low season, and with that sometimes comes lower prices.

As with any low season travel, there are usually ways to save money. For one, your flight could be half the price, and attractions typically have low season discounts.

They want to encourage tourism as much as possible during low season, and a good way to do that is by lowering the price.

Related How To Save Money In Barcelona (9 Ways To Visit Barcelona On A Budget!) P.S. Save money on Barcelona with the Go City Barcelona Card

Later Sunrise Barcelona in Winter

If you’re interested in watching the sunrise in Barcelona (like at Park Güell) it’s a lot easier to do in December. The sunrise is almost two hours later than during the summer months.

So instead of having to wake up at 5:00 A.M., you can sleep in until 7:00 A.M.! That makes it quite a bit more manageable to wake up and see.

P.S. Sunrise at Park Güell is PACKED! But, if you’re there before it officially opens you actually get in for free!

Unique Things To Do In Barcelona In December: Holiday Markets!

Visiting Barcelona in December also means you’re there right in time for Christmas markets. It does bring a small influx of tourists, but nothing compared to the summer months (or the weekend of December 6).

There are so many different markets you can shop at throughout the city. There are markets with holiday nick-nacks, like traditional cagatió (logs) and caganer (shitters). These markets are installed next to the Cathedral of Barcelona in Plaça Nova and the Sagrada Familia.

But around the city, there are also the holiday markets selling local products. You might have to pay to get into some of these, but they’re worth it! I love the Palo Market Fest . 

There is also be the free local market in Plaça de Catalunya that has some really neat finds!

P.S. Holiday markets make a great place to shop for one of a kind Barcelona souvenirs .

Make Your Own Espadrilles In Barcelona

One of the coolest things to do in Barcelona (and one of the best souvenirs), is to make your own authentic Espadrilles .

For more activities and tours in Barcelona, visit Viator .

Where To Stay In Barcelona In December?

When we visited Barcelona in winter time, we stayed in Gràcia . A small neighbourhood about a 20 minute walk from the city centre. It let us debrief from the craziness of the city, and gave us the opportunity to experience more of local Barcelona. 

I stayed at an Airbnb in Gràcia for a more home away experience. I highly recommend booking a stay in Gràcia to experience more of the local Barcelona life. Book a room at Casa Gràcia – See room rates & availability .

If you’re looking to stay closer to the city centre, a great neighbourhood is El Born. Stay in Hotel del Mar. See room rates & availability .

Or why not stay like royalty at Hotel Royal Passeig de Gràcia in Barcelona. This is the nicest street in Barcelona! See room rates & availability .

For more accommodation options on Booking.com .

Thinking of visiting Barcelona? Read my other posts about this wonderful city! Like how you can save money in this city , or how (and why) you should spend the entire day at Montjuïc !

I also wrote some day trip guides from Barcelona. Like why not visit Montserrat , Girona , or Salvador Dalí’s hometown ?

Interested In Fall Travel?

• See The Pros and Cons of Fall Travel
• See What Edinburgh Is Like In October
• See What Belgium Is Like In September

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Sunday 10th of September 2023

I am going December 1-5 this year, since the holiday is on the 6th, so you think it will be celebrated that day through the weekend? Now I’m nervous lol

Friday 22nd of September 2023

It looks like Constitution Day is on a Wednesday this year, maybe it will split up the crowds if people come the weekend before and after the holiday! It was hectic but it's always nice to have a lively city centre! I wouldn't worry too much and enjoy your time in Barcelona :D

Digitaldaybook

Monday 20th of July 2020

The Mediterranean weather during the winter is definitely gorgeous!

Friday 17th of July 2020

I might just be in Spain in September so I’ll save this post just in case! It sounds like there are some lovey things to see and do there. I’ve been there in summer and it was very very busy!

Oh I hope you get to go in September! It should definitely be less crowded and the weather will already start to cool down!

Nathalie Bolet

Thursday 16th of July 2020

This is so great! I went in August and I was melting haha would totally go back in December

Oh no! The weather is totally unbeatable in December :)

Visiting Barcelona in winter is definitly a good idea to avoid the crowds! And for a Dutchie like me 15 degrees is not bad at all!

Haha I couldn't agree more! I'd take 15 degree winters to escape the -30 degrees in Montreal any day :)

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7 reasons to visit Barcelona in December

Are you planning on visiting Barcelona in December? 

Barcelona: it’s known for its vibrant culture, Gaudi-created architecture, and rich Catalan cuisine.

But did you know that it’s a fantastic Christmas destination?

As December arrives, the festive markets open, welcoming tourists with their unique Catalan traditions.

Of course, if you visit Barcelona in December you may escape the harsh winter in other parts of Europe too – Barcelona’s usually never too cold!

Whether you’re drawn to the bustling Christmas markets, crowd-free Barcelona beaches, or the city’s effortlessly cool vibe, there are countless reasons to visit Barcelona in December.

Let’s take a look at them!

Table of Contents

Why visit Barcelona in December?

Visit Barcelona in December to enjoy warm weather, a festive atmosphere, plenty of delicious food, outdoor activities and New Year’s celebrations.

It’s definitely one of the best Spanish winter destinations – read on for all of our top reasons!

Mild weather

While much of Europe ranges from chilly to snowy in December, Barcelona’s mild and comfortable – snow here is very, very rare .

Sure, it’s winter, but that doesn’t mean you’ll need to bundle up excessively!

Average temperatures hover around 10-15°C (50-59°F); it’s pleasant enough to explore the city’s stunning architecture, stroll along the less-crowded beaches, or sip hot chocolate at an al-fresco street-side café.

It’s the perfect blend of winter charm without the chill!

Christmas festivities

Barcelona’s December scene is alive with Christmas spirit, and the city’s markets are the heart of the celebration.

At the Fira de Santa Llúcia, near the Gothic Cathedral, you’ll discover handcrafted ornaments, nativity scenes, and delicious Catalan treats like “turrón” and “neules.”

If you’re looking for something a bit different, the Fira de Nadal at the Sagrada Familia offers a stunning backdrop to a market filled with local crafts, foods, and performances.

The illuminated Sagrada Familia only adds to the festive atmosphere!

Don’t miss the Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria, a world-renowned market that goes all out during the festive season.

In addition to the markets, there’s the amusing Caga Tió, or “pooping log” tradition.

Families create and decorate a wooden log, feed it treats, and then “encourage” it to deliver presents on Christmas Eve or Day.

It’s one of Europe’s quirkiest Christmas traditions – check out my full post on it ! 

Seasonal food

Barcelona’s food scene comes alive in November with an array of Spanish seasonal dishes!

Start with “ Escudella i Carn d’Olla ,” a traditional Catalan stew brimming with meats and vegetables.

Local restaurants also join the festivities by offering special holiday menus.

From gourmet dining establishments to cosy tapas bars, here you can indulge in dishes like “ Canelons ,” stuffed pasta often enjoyed on Boxing Day, or the much-loved “turrón,” a nougat made of honey, sugar, egg whites, and almonds.

And don’t forget to explore Barcelona’s bustling food markets during December, including Mercat de la Barceloneta and Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria. 

Psst… I think the very BEST way to experience Barcelona’s immense food scene is a guided food, wine and history tour (all my favourite things!) like this one . You’ll get your culture fix while trying some of the city’s best dishes at secret local spots – what’s not to love?

Winter sales and shopping

If you’re looking to shop, Barcelona in December has you covered!

Begin Christmas shopping at the famous Passeig de Gràcia , where top international brands offer incredible discounts during winter sales.

If you’re searching for something more local and unique, explore the El Born district, where artisans sell handmade crafts, jewellery, and souvenirs.

Don’t miss the chance to visit one of Barcelona’s vibrant Christmas markets, such as Fira de Santa Llúcia , where you can pick up traditional Catalan Christmas decorations and delicacies.

After Christmas, the sales start, where you can purchase clothes and accessories at bargain prices! 

Outdoor activities

Thanks to Barcelona’s idyllic weather, outdoor activities are abundant in Barcelona in December! 

Do you love to hike?

Check out the nearby Montserrat Mountain with elaborate trails, allowing you to experience the natural beauty of Catalonia.

If you visit Barcelona in December, explore the city’s famous parks like Parc Güell and enjoy Gaudi’s artistic genius amid lush greenery!

Want to soak in the city’s architecture without the summer crowds? December is an ideal time for leisurely sightseeing.

Wander the Gothic Quarter’s narrow streets, bike along the beachfront, or even take a Segway tour of the city’s historic sites. 

Being in close proximity to the Costa Brava, enjoy the beaches without anyone else around, a rare treat during other times of the year (it might not be beach weather, but it’s usually good enough for a beach stroll!). 

If you’re up for a bit of adventure, take a side trip to the Pyrenees for skiing or snowboarding!

New Year’s Eve celebrations

Barcelona knows how to welcome the New Year with style!

From grand public celebrations to intimate gatherings at local bars and restaurants, there’s no shortage of ways to ring in the New Year here. 

Plaça d’Espanya hosts a massive public celebration, complete with a spectacular light show, live music, and, of course, fireworks.

Thousands gather here to count down to midnight.

Then there’s the local tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight !

Locals and tourists alike partake in this custom, symbolizing good luck for the coming 12 months.

As the clock strikes midnight, revellers eat one grape for each chime, accompanied by cava, the local sparkling wine.

Are you interested in dining and dancing the night away? Many of Barcelona’s renowned restaurants and clubs offer special New Year’s Eve packages.

Reduced crowds

As Barcelona’s not that renowned when it comes to Christmas destinations in Europe, visiting in December affords a unique opportunity to experience the city without the typical tourist crowds!

As the peak summer season fades away, so do the long lines and crowded streets.

Wander the iconic La Rambla without elbowing your way through throngs of people or take a peaceful stroll through the stunning Park Güell, enjoying Gaudi’s artistic masterpieces without interruption.

The reduced crowds also mean shorter waiting times at major attractions like Sagrada Familia or the Picasso Museum.

This calm atmosphere extends to the city’s beautiful beaches.

Even though it’s winter, you can still stroll along the beach or take a quick dip! 

With fewer tourists, you’ll find Barceloneta Beach much less crowded!

Shopping’s much more chilled out too – whether you’re browsing the city’s unique boutiques or exploring the festive Christmas markets. 

What’s the weather like in Barcelona in December?

December in Barcelona is pretty mild. 

There may be rain at times, but generally the daytime temperatures are mild enough to enjoy the city! 

Here’s a quick overview of the weather you can expect:

What to pack for Barcelona in December

Packing for Barcelona in December requires some thought to accommodate the mild but sometimes unpredictable weather.

Since the temperatures can vary, it’s wise to pack clothes that can be layered, such as light sweaters , long-sleeve shirts , and a warm jacket for the evenings.

Whether you’re planning on walking through the city or hitting the Christmas markets, walking shoes or comfortable boots are a must.

Even though Barcelona doesn’t get extremely cold, a scarf and gloves can be useful for chillier days or evenings.

With an average of 7 days of rain in December, having a small umbrella in your bag might come in handy.

If you’re planning to visit heated pools or indoor spas, don’t forget to pack swimwear . Even in winter, the sun can be bright, so sunglasses are recommended.

Lastly, a daypack for carrying essentials like water, snacks, or your camera is a great addition to your packing list.

This packing list should provide a comfortable and stylish base for your Barcelona trip in December, allowing you to enjoy all the city has to offer.

Things to do in Barcelona in December

• Explore the stunning Gothic Quarter , decorated with Christmas lights.
• Visit La Sagrada Familia , especially during a winter sunset.
• Take a stroll down Las Ramblas , sampling seasonal treats.
• Experience the unique Christmas tradition of Caga Tió, a favourite with Catalan Families.
• Enjoy ice skating at the temporary rinks near Plaça Catalunya .
• Attend a Christmas Mass at the historic Barcelona Cathedral .
• Explore Montjuïc Castle for breathtaking city views.
• Take a side trip to the nearby Pyrenees Mountains for skiing or snowboarding.
• Savour traditional Catalan Christmas dishes at a local restaurant .
• Visit the Picasso Museum , which may have fewer crowds.
• Discover Antoni Gaudí’s Park Güell under a crisp winter sky.
• Attend the Fira de Santa Llúcia , Barcelona’s oldest Christmas market.
• Take a relaxing dip in a heated pool at Aire de Barcelona .
• Visit the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc for a winter-themed show.
• Explore the iconic architecture of Casa Batlló and Casa Milà .
• Enjoy a beach day at Barceloneta Beach , minus the crowds.
• Take part in the New Year’s Eve Celebrations at Plaça Espanya.
• Explore the El Raval neighbourhood for unique shopping experiences.
• Attend a live performance at the iconic Gran Teatre del Liceu .
• Wander through Poble Espanyol , an open-air architectural museum, to experience Spain’s beautiful architecture.

Check out my full guide to visiting Barcelona in winter by clicking here .

Barcelona in December FAQs

Is december a good time to visit barcelona.

Yes, December is an excellent time to visit Barcelona. The weather is generally mild, and the city is adorned with festive decorations and Christmas markets. Reduced crowds also allow for a more relaxed exploration of the city’s renowned attractions.

Do people go to the beach in Barcelona in December?

While December isn’t prime beach season, the mild weather still allows for enjoyable strolls along the beaches. Some locals and tourists do venture to the shores of Barceloneta Beach and other nearby beaches, enjoying the tranquility without the summer crowds.

Is Barcelona nice in Christmas?

Barcelona is enchanting during Christmas. The city embraces the holiday spirit with festive markets, unique Catalan traditions like Caga Tió, beautiful decorations, and special holiday menus at local restaurants. It’s a magical time to experience Barcelona’s cultural richness.

Is Barcelona worth visiting in the winter?

Absolutely! Winter in Barcelona offers many delights, from the seasonal foods to the festive Christmas atmosphere. Plus, the city’s mild winter climate means you can still enjoy outdoor activities, including hiking and sightseeing. Proximity to the Costa Brava and the Pyrenees allows for diverse experiences.

Is Barcelona expensive in December?

December can be more affordable in Barcelona compared to the peak summer months. Accommodation prices may be lower, and winter sales in local markets and shops can provide opportunities for great deals. However, prices can vary, so it’s wise to plan and book in advance.

Is everything open in Barcelona in December?

Most attractions, shops, and restaurants in Barcelona remain open in December. Some places might have special holiday hours, especially on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It’s advisable to check the schedules in advance for any specific venues you wish to visit.

Are you ready for Barcelona in December? 

With more hours of sunshine than many other European destinations and plenty of things to do, Barcelona’s a wonderful winter city break – but December, with festive markets, is an ideal time to visit. 

Claire Martin

Claire is an expert in exploring Europe in the winter! She's from the UK and has been to over 20 countries on the continent in the winter season. She loves every bit of Europe in the cooler months, including finding winter sunshine in Spain, skiing in the Alps and the charm of the Nordic countries in the festive season.

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Barcelona in December

Visiting barcelona in december: a festive guide.

Are you dreaming of a December Barcelona getaway that combines historical charm, festive spirit, and mild weather? Look no further than Barcelona, a captivating Spanish city that comes alive with enchanting experiences during the winter season. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Barcelona in December, from its pleasant weather to the popular attractions and major events that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

Weather in Barcelona in December: A Pleasant Chill

Barcelona weather in December is mild and welcoming, with a daytime average temperature of around 15°C and nighttime temperatures dipping to about 9 degrees. Unlike some European cities, Barcelona rarely sees snow during this month. So, you won’t need to pack fur coats and heavy boots! 

The Catalan capital can get a bit chilly in the mornings and evenings, so it’s wise to pack a light but warm coat with lots of layers and comfortable walking shoes in the winter city. Don’t forget to include a cap, scarf, and gloves for those occasional windy days during your December Barcelona trip.

Moreover, you don’t need to get your flip-flops or beachwear during this season, as it’s too cold for swimming, and beach services are usually closed.

21 Unmissable Things to do in Barcelona in December 

This crisp yet pleasant weather of Barcelona in December creates the perfect setting for exploring the city’s outdoor Barcelona attractions and savoring its cozy indoor cafes. Here are 21 fantastic things you can enjoy to make the most out of your winter adventure in the Catalonian city. 

Casa Batlló: A Gaudí Masterpiece

Nestled on Barcelona’s popular Passeig de Gràcia, Casa Batlló is one of the city’s beloved gems and a top tourist spot. Whether you’re an architecture enthusiast or just curious to see what the buzz is all about, this place is a must-visit.

Designed by the iconic Antoni Gaudi, this architectural wonder is a true modernist masterpiece, featuring a facade inspired by marine life. If you look closely, the balconies might also remind you of masks, skulls, or even open mouths, leading locals to affectionately call it “the yawning house.” 

Moreover, visiting Casa Batlló in December is particularly great as its façade is adorned with special illuminations to celebrate the Christmas season. What makes it even more enchanting is that every 30 minutes, visitors can watch a beautiful 3-minute light and music show (in the evening). This adds a magical touch to the already enchanting experience of exploring this remarkable UNESCO World Heritage site. 

Turístic Bus: Sightseeing with a Style

To truly grasp the beauty of Barcelona, hop aboard the Turístic Bus, an open-top double-decker that offers a comprehensive tour of the top Barcelona attractions. With multiple routes and the flexibility to hop on and off as you please, this bus allows you to explore Barcelona iconic landmarks like the Gothic Quarter, Park Güell, and Camp Nou at your own pace. It’s a convenient and enriching way to experience this dazzling city’s grandeur.

You’ll also enjoy multi-lingual tour guide audio, interesting tourist facts, and complimentary Wi-Fi on board! Add in a visit to a few of Barcelona’s hidden gems , and you’ll have an unforgettable and well-rounded Barcelona adventure.

MNAC: The Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya: A Cultural Extravaganza

For art and culture enthusiasts, the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya (MNAC or the National art museum of Catalan) is a must-visit destination. Situated in the Palau Nacional of Montjuic, this museum boasts a diverse collection spanning various artistic periods. It also houses works from artists like Picasso, Gaudi, and Rubens, making it the best place to explore art. 

Visiting it in December makes the experience even more thrilling and fun as you can avoid the bustling summer tourist season. From stunning paintings to intricate sculptures, MNAC offers a journey through rich cultural art heritage that’s sure to captivate your senses. 

Churros: Barcelona’s Irresistible Winter Delight

No visit to Barcelona is complete without indulging in the mouth-watering delight of churros. These fried dough pastries, often served with rich hot chocolate, are a winter favorite among locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re enjoying them in a cozy cafe or from a street vendor, the combination of crispy churros and velvety chocolate creates a warm and comforting culinary experience.

The dazzling city is full of Churrerias, and you’ll probably find one on every corner. We recommend trying out the Churreria at Carrer dels Banys Nous, No. 8 , in the heart of the Gothic quarter for an authentic Spanish churro. And if you’re up for a culinary adventure, make sure not to overlook Porras, larger churros that are lighter and spongier.

Casa Vicens: Gaudí’s Hidden Gem

As you explore Barcelona’s architectural wonders, don’t miss Casa Vicens, one of Antoni Gaudí’s lesser-known masterpieces. He designed it soon after completing architecture school in 1878. The house was commissioned by Manuel Vicens I Montaner, a visionary stockbroker. His dream was to have a summer retreat in the Gràcia neighborhood of Barcelona.

This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases Gaudí’s early architectural style, characterized by a fusion of influences ranging from Moorish to Oriental designs. The vibrant colors, intricate details, and innovative design elements make Casa Vicens a true hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Christmas Markets: A Festive Wonderland

Barcelona’s Christmas markets add a touch of magic to the city during December. Several markets, known as firas in Catalan, set up stalls offering everything from seasonal treats to handicrafts and jewelry. Here are two major Christmas markets that you should definitely check out.

Fira de Santa Llúcia

Fira de Santa Llúcia, Barcelona’s main Christmas fair for over 225 years, offers festive Christmas decorations, Christmas lights, nativity figures, crafts, zambombas, and seasonal trees. Located near the Gothic Cathedral, it opens from late November to December 23, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia

Another great traditional Christmas market, the Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia, has over 120 stalls in front of Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia. It also features appearances by Father Christmas, festive Christmas lights, and stunning Christmas trees. The market runs from late November to December 23. 

Flamenco show: Embracing Passionate Rhythms

Experience the soul-stirring art of Flamenco, a passionate dance form deeply embedded in Spanish culture. Barcelona’s intimate Flamenco venues offer an authentic setting to witness powerful performances characterized by intense guitar melodies, rhythmic footwork, and passionate vocals. Let the captivating energy of Flamenco shows ignite your senses and leave you with lasting memories.

Camp Nou Museum: A Paradise for Football Fans

Calling all football aficionados! The Camp Nou Museum offers an immersive journey into the world of FC Barcelona. Explore the iconic stadium’s history through an array of exhibits, trophies, and interactive displays that celebrate the team’s legendary moments. The museum boasts a long and storied history, serving as the home to iconic players like Messi and Ronaldinho.

Whether you’re a die-hard football match fan or simply curious about the sport’s rich heritage, this museum promises an engaging experience for everyone who visits it. 

Park Guell: Nature and Art Unite

Park Güell exemplifies Gaudí’s ability to blend art with nature seamlessly. This mosaic-adorned park offers panoramic views of Barcelona and whimsical architectural elements that transport you to a whimsical wonderland. Whether you’re strolling through its winding pathways or admiring the iconic mosaic lizard, Park Güell is a testament to Gaudí’s creativity and the city’s artistic spirit.

Barcelona’s New Year’s Eve: A Night of Celebration

New Year in this vibrant city is a magical experience that makes it worth visiting Barcelona in December. The city comes alive with twinkling lights, cool weather, and an infectious festive spirit throughout December. Whether you prefer dazzling fireworks at the Plaça Espanya, crazy ragers at Razzmatazz (A club), and Pacha Club & Lounge, or cozy dinners, Barcelona offers something unique and exciting for everyone on New Year’s Eve.

And, to make your New Year in Barcelona truly special, don’t forget to embrace exciting local traditions. At midnight, join the locals in the fun tradition of eating 12 grapes for good luck. The challenge? Count down from 12 to 1, consuming one grape with each second. It sounds easy, but it’s not – the countdown adds a delightful twist to this unique and festive experience!

Palau de la Música Catalana: Architectural Marvel

Palau de la Música Catalana is an architectural masterpiece that marries music and design. Its intricate stained glass windows, ornate sculptures, and awe-inspiring concert hall create an ambiance that is as enchanting as the performances held within. Attending a concert here is a cultural experience that encapsulates the harmonious blend of art and music.

Picasso Museum: Exploring the Famous Artist’s Journey 

Exploring the Picasso Museum in Barcelona during the serene winter month of December is a wonderful experience, made even more enjoyable by fewer crowds. This celebrated museum, founded in 1963 by Picasso’s close friend Jaume Sabartés, contains over 4,000 of Picasso’s artworks, making it the world’s largest collection of his masterpieces.

As you wander through its inviting galleries, you’ll explore Picasso’s life and artistry, from his early years honing his craft under his father’s guidance to his iconic creations. You’ll also get a chance to admire some of his most renowned works like “Science and Charity”, and “Harlequin”, witnessing his huge influence on modern art.

Día de la Constitución and La Inmaculada: Celebrating Traditions

Immerse yourself in Spanish culture during Día de la Constitución and La Inmaculada. On December 6th, Día de la Constitución commemorates Spain’s democratic constitution with parades and festivities. La Inmaculada, celebrated on December 8th, honors the Immaculate Conception with religious processions and vibrant traditions that glimpse the country’s cultural heritage.

Palau Güell: A Regal Retreat

Palau Güell stands as another testament to Gaudí’s brilliance, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyles of Barcelona’s elite. This architectural gem boasts lavish interiors, intricate details, and an air of regal elegance. From the grand entrance to the rooftop adorned with whimsical chimneys, Palau Güell is a luxurious retreat that captures the essence of a bygone era.

La Boqueria Market: A Gastronomic Wonderland

Food enthusiasts will be in paradise at La Boqueria Market, a culinary haven tantalizing the senses. The market’s vibrant stalls showcase an array of fresh produce, seafood, spices, and delectable treats. It has been a hub for commerce in Barcelona since the 13th century.

As you meander through the bustling aisles of the free local market, the sights, sounds, and aromas of La Boqueria offer a gastronomic journey that reflects the richness of Spanish cuisine.

Manga International Fair: A Pop Culture Extravaganza

If you’re a fan of manga, anime, and pop culture, the Manga International Fair is a haven of creativity and camaraderie. Held in December, this vibrant event brings together enthusiasts, creators, and artists to celebrate their shared passions. Immerse yourself in a world of interactive exhibits, workshops, contests, and showcases that pay homage to the colorful world of Japanese pop culture.

With a record-breaking 150,000 visitors, this event ranks as the city’s third-largest public fair, trailing behind only the Motor Show and Primavera Sound. So, be sure to make a small pit stop at this grand pop-up when you visit Barcelona in December.

Santa Maria del Mar: A Testament to History

Explore the history and spirituality of the city at Santa Maria del Mar, a striking Catalan Gothic basilica in El Born neighberhood. With its imposing columns, rose windows, and elegant simplicity, this church tells the story of the city’s maritime heritage and devotion. Constructed between 1329 and 1383, it is the sole example of pure Catalan Gothic architecture. When you enter this sacred space, you can’t help but be enveloped by profound reverence and timeless awe.

Experience the Magic: Barcelona’s Christmas Bus Night Tour

Embark on a magical journey through Barcelona’s illuminated streets with the Christmas Bus Night Tour. Witness the city’s landmarks adorned with sparkling Christmas lights, creating a festive atmosphere that’s nothing short of enchanting. From Casa Batlló to La Pedrera, the tour offers a unique opportunity to see all the Christmas festivities that take place in this lively city.

Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site: A Mesmerizing Display

Wrap up your Barcelona adventure with a visit to the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site, where architecture and history unite to create a captivating experience. Located close to the Sagrada Família, this true gem of art-nouveau architecture was designed by Lluís Domènech i Montaner (known as the architect behind Palau de la Música Catalana) and constructed between 1902 and 1930.

For over eight decades, this site, consisting of 27 Art Nouveau buildings, served as the Hospital de la Santa Creu i Sant Pau, one of Europe’s oldest healthcare centers. However, in 2009, a restoration project began to breathe new life into the old pavilions, restoring the splendor of Catalonia’s native art nouveau.

Visiting the Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site in December is the perfect time as this modernist complex transforms into a breathtaking canvas of lights and colors. The immersive light installation highlights the site’s architectural intricacies, providing a fitting finale to your winter escapade.

Outside of Barcelona

Wine tasting in barcelona: a flavorful adventure.

If you are visiting Barcelona in December, explore the city’s excellent wine culture. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or simply looking for a cozy and festive activity, wine tasting in Barcelona promises to be a delicious journey for your palate and a perfect way to embrace the holiday spirit.

Barcelona’s winemaking heritage dates back centuries, with the 19th century marking the birth of the famous Cava wines, thanks to Josep Raventos of Codorniu. You can indulge in unique wine-tasting experiences, such as the Create Your Own Cava tour, allowing you to participate in the winemaking process actively. Alternatively, you can explore the Penedes Region on a 4×4 Winery Tour, where you’ll enjoy luxurious SUV rides and savor mouthwatering tapas.

These experiences promise to take your Barcelona visit to the next level by blending culture, tradition, and exceptional wines for unforgettable memories.

Girona Tour: Unveiling Game of Thrones Filming Locations outisde of Barcelona

Welcome Barcelona’s winter season with a half-day tour to Girona, famous as a prominent filming location for Game of Thrones seasons 5-8. This medieval gem, just 1.5 hours north of Barcelona, brings Arya’s Braavos adventures and Cersei’s iconic walk of shame to life. To ensure your spot, reserve your tour in advance and hop aboard a comfortable private coach, ready to explore this enchanting town.

Once in Girona, you can enjoy an expert-guided tour that shows you both the town’s historical treasures and its famous film sets. Wander through its cobblestone streets, explore the ancient Jewish Quarter, and marvel at the impressive Girona Cathedral. The town’s rich history and picturesque landscapes offer a unique glimpse into Catalonia’s past, making it a worthwhile excursion from Barcelona.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, December in Barcelona is a wonderful time to visit. You can experience a mix of art, culture, and festive celebrations. From architectural wonders to culinary delights to holiday markets, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during this magical season. So, pack your bags, get into the holiday spirit, and embark on a memorable journey to discover the beauty of Barcelona in December.

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A Guide to Visiting Barcelona in December | Attractions, Events & More

Is december a good time to visit barcelona.

Barcelona , the capital of Catalonia is famed for its eccentric architecture, delicious tapas and wine. This dazzling city offers architecture, museums, nightlife, beaches and endless entertainment to all its tourists. Barcelona in December is a unique experience with lovely weather and the air is filled with Christmas festivities. Read on to find out how you can make the best of your trip to Barcelona in December. 

Overview of weather in Barcelona in December

Winter in Barcelona is cool, pleasant and manageable unlike the harsh winters you may find across the rest of Europe. The weather is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying all that Barcelona has to offer. 

Average Temperature: High - 13.8ºC Low - 5.2º

Average Rainfall: 35mm (Very low chances of fog or snow)

Daily Wind Speed: 15mph. Moderate breezes from the north.

Temperature of the sea: 16ºC

Christmas highlights in Barcelona

The Lights of Sant Pau

The Lights of Sant Pau is a dazzling Christmas light show that transforms the stunning Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau , a former hospital complex in Barcelona, into a wonderland of twinkling lights, vibrant colors, and captivating installations.

Fira de Santa Llúcia

Fira de Santa Llúcia is a centuries-old Christmas market that takes place in the heart of Barcelona, around the Cathedral of Barcelona. It is held every year from November 24th to December 23rd, and is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Spain.

Tio de Nadal

This charming Catalan Christmas tradition is sure to bring a smile to your face and a twinkle to your eyes. Imagine a friendly little log, dressed in a traditional red hat and sporting a cheeky grin. That's the Tió de Nadal, a festive figure who brings joy and sweets to children during the holidays.

Flamenco Shows

Barcelona in December comes alive with the fiery passion of flamenco! As the Christmas lights twinkle and the air gets crisp, the city's tablaos (flamenco performance venues) ignite with the rhythmic stomping of feet, the soulful cries of singers, and the mesmerizing grace of dancers.

Food Artisans Market

Plaça del Pi's hidden gem! Tucked by the iconic Santa Maria church, this artisan food market pops up almost every other day before Christmas. Ditch the plastic Santas and fill your stockings with Catalan honey, handcrafted chocs, or local cheeses & wines. Non-kitch goodness guaranteed!

New Year's Eve highlights in Barcelona

Grapes and Red Pants

Top 12 things to do in Barcelona in December

1. Visit La Sagrada Familia

Gaudi's attraction | cathedral.

Barcelona’s most visited tourist destination is far less crowded in December. You will witness tall towers, intricately designed facades that take inspiration from nature with fruit motifs, seashells and angled pillars. This monument is one of Gaudi’s masterpieces and attracts more than 4.5 million visitors each year.

December Timings: 09AM - 6PM except 25th and 26th December- 09AM - 2PM

2. Visit Park Güell

Gaudi's attraction | park.

Spread over 18 acres of hilly land, Park Güell is a sight to behold. Stroll through this picturesque location in December with the lovely weather making the experience all the more memorable. It is also home to some of Gaudí's best works such as the Dragon Stairs, and the Guardian House.

December Timings: Open daily from 08:30AM to 6:15PM

3. Explore Casa Vicens

Gaudi's attraction | house museum.

Casa Vicens was Gaudi’s very first design for a house. It has now been transformed into a museum offering glimpses of the past. It is structured on four floors and Gaudi used the traditional Catalan technique of building load-bearing walls and enclosures with vaults and wooden joists.

December Timings: Open daily from 10AM - 8PM, with last entry at 7PM. Closed on 25th December, 1st and 6th January.

4. Visit Christmas Markets

Cultural experience.

A highlight of Barcelona in December is all the holiday markets you will find in the city. These markets sell holiday nick-nacks, like traditional cagatió (logs) and you’ll find them installed next to the Cathedral of Barcelona in Plaça Nova and the Sagrada Familia. There is also a free local market in Plaça de Catalunya.

5. Celebrate New Year’s Eve

If you find yourself in Barcelona towards the end of December you have to watch the New Year arrive in style! There’s a public fireworks display every year at the Magic Fountain on Plaça Espanya (starts around 11 pm) and the nightlife is unmissable during this time. 

6. Experience a Thermal Bath

What could be better than lounging in a thermal bath during a cool winter? Visit an ancient Roman bath that has been restored in the Gothic Quarters in Barcelona. At Aire de Barcelona you can enjoy hot baths at varied temperatures. You can choose between options like a normal bath, a red wine bath, and a scented room.

December Timings: Mon-Fri: 9AM-11PM. Sat-Sun: 9AM-12AM.

7. Go Museum Hopping

Barcelona is renowned for its diverse museums. Explore some of the best museums in Barcelona like Picasso Museum, FC Barcelona Museum, Fundació Joan Miró,Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and many more. Art, history and entertainment define each of these museums that offer you a glimpse into Barcelona’s heritage and culture.

8. Visit Casa Mila

Casa Mila is one of Gaudi’s modernist masterpieces and the final residential building he designed. It is also one of the first Antoni Gaudí's buildings to hold nighttime rooftop activities like the fascinating summer concert. Casa Mila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of Barcelona from its rooftop.

December Timings: December 26 - January 3: Monday to Sunday: 9AM - 8:30PM. Night tour: 9PM - 11PM

9. Visit Casa Batllo

Gaudi's attraction | landmark building.

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Casa Batllo is quirky and unique with a curvy, colorful facade. Gaudi used his pioneering design technique called Trencadis for this building. Casa Batllo is known for an augmented reality guided tour that allows for a dynamic and immersive experience. It is an unmissable landmark!

December Timings: Open daily from 9AM - 9PM, with last entry at 8PM

10. Watch a Flamenco Show

You cannot leave Barcelona without experiencing a traditional Flamenco show. Flamenco is known for its intricate dance moves, the use of the classic flamenco guitar and elaborate costumes. You can sip on a glass of wine as you enjoy watching Spain’s folkloric traditions. This traditional Spanish dance form is unmissable!

11. Explore La Rambla

City street.

Barcelona’s most popular street is wonderful to explore in December owing to the great weather and less crowds. While you stroll through La Ramblas, you will come across old-school florists, gelaterias and candy stalls. You'll find Christmas lights and decorations all around.

12. Stroll through Plaça d’Espanya

City square.

Plaça d’Espanya is one of the biggest squares in Barcelona and offers the best views of the city in December. It was designed by Josep Amargos and features a gorgeous fountain at the center that was designed by  Josep Maria Jujol, a collaborator of Antoni Gaudí. It is especially beautiful during Christmas.

Top experiences & things to do in Barcelona in December

Festivals in barcelona in december.

Christmas in Barcelona

• Witness the unique Catalan Christmas tradition of Caga Tió: Unlike the typical Christmas logs found in other countries, the Catalan Caga Tió is a friendly-looking log with a smiling face and a "behind" that can be used to "poop" out small gifts and sweets for children on Christmas Day. This whimsical tradition adds a touch of fun and quirkiness to the festive season in Barcelona.
• Experience the vibrant Fira de Santa Llúcia Christmas market: Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of the Fira de Santa Llúcia, Barcelona's oldest Christmas market, located in the Gothic Quarter. Browse through stalls adorned with twinkling lights, handcrafted ornaments, traditional Catalan Christmas decorations, and delicious treats like Turrón and Polvorones.
• Celebrate Three Kings Day (Día de los Reyes Magos) on January 6th: Experience the magic of Three Kings Day, a beloved Spanish tradition, where children eagerly await the arrival of the Three Kings on horseback, who parade through the streets of Barcelona, showering sweets and gifts upon the city.

New Year's Eve in Barcelona

• Experience the iconic Las Ramblas New Year's Eve celebration: Ring in the New Year amidst a vibrant crowd on Las Ramblas, Barcelona's most famous boulevard. As the clock strikes midnight, join in the synchronized chimes of the city's bells and enjoy a spectacular fireworks display over the Mediterranean Sea.
• Indulge in a traditional Catalan New Year's Eve dinner: Savor a memorable New Year's Eve dinner at a local restaurant, where you'll experience the traditional Catalan custom of eating 12 grapes to the chimes of the midnight bells. Each grape represents a wish for the coming year, adding a touch of magic to the start of the new year.
• Dance the night away at one of Barcelona's lively New Year's Eve parties: Barcelona is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, and on New Year's Eve, the city comes alive with countless parties to choose from. Whether you prefer electronic music, salsa, or traditional Catalan folk music, you'll find a party that suits your taste.

Events in Barcelona in December

Ice Skating in Plaza Catalunya

Venue: Plaza Catalunya

Dates: End of November

Plaza Catalunya has the biggest ice rink in all of Europe that opens to the public in the third week of November. December is the perfect time to take part in ice-skating and enjoy its thrills! This ice skating rink has enough room for many visitors with a skating area of 1200 square meters.

Fira de Nadal Sagrada Familia

Venue: La Sagrada Familia

Dates : End of November

The Christmas Fair at the Sagrada Família has been running since 1962. It is a traditional Christmas market with over 100 stalls selling a variety of gifts and decorations along with craft products, costume jewellery and clothes.

Venue: Pla de la Seu & Avda de la Catedral

Dating back to 1786, this traditional Christmas fair has more than 300 stalls selling all kinds of handcrafted Christmas decorations and gifts, along with mistletoe, poinsettias and Christmas trees. You’ll find a Nativity scene contest, musical parades and exhibitions.

Know before you visit Barcelona in December

Time Zone : GMT +2

Currency : Euro - EUR - €

Country code : +34

Emergency numbers : 112

• Remember to carry jackets, coats, light sweaters and scarves that can serve as layers you wear/take off during the course of the day.
• Despite being winter, it is still sunny in Barcelona, so carry a pair of sunglasses and ample sunscreen.
• During the day, you will be comfortable in shorts, skirts, trousers and a light jacket or sweater.
• In the evening, it can get colder, so carry scarves and heavier jackets. 

• Power Adapter: A type F plug (grounded) or a type C plug (non-grounded).
• Clothes: Shorts, trousers, skirts, blouses, light jackets, coats, cardigans and scarves. Layering is important in Barcelona in December.
• Comfortable shoes.
• An umbrella in case it rains.
• A backpack to carry around during the day with enough compartments for all your belongings.

By Metro: Barcelona metro is an extensive electric railway network. It runs mostly underground and has eight lines and 161 stations. Metro map.

By Bus: With 200 lines that run till late in the night extensively covering the city, exploring Barcelona by bus is convenient and cost-efficient. City bus map .

By Cable Car (Funicular): There are three cable car lines in Barcelona that you can hop onto and take in majestic views of the city. Two lines reach Tibidabo while others offer access to Montjuïc.

On Foot: Exploring Barcelona by foot, especially in December, is a great idea given the temperature. Many attractions are at a short distance from each other making for the perfect walk.

With Christmas cheer and joy all around you, Barcelona in December is a treat! Choose from a variety of gorgeous hotels to spend the perfect December in Barcelona.

Budget Hotels – Hostal Boqueria, Vincci Bit, Hotel Oasis, Casa Kessler, Violeta Boutique

Mid Range - Murmuri Residence Mercader, Hotel Cuatro Naciones, Mayerling Schumann Barcelona

Luxury Hotels – Mercer Hotel, Mandarin Oriental, Grand Hotel Central, Majestic Hotel & Spa, Soho House

Try these traditional Christmas dishes in Barcelona for a memorable holiday!

Escudella : This is a stew made from chicken, beef, pork backbone and ham bone’s bouillon.

Cannelloni : This traditional dish is eaten on December 26 and is made from chicken stuffed with meat and bechamel sauce.

Cochinillo Asado : This traditional Spanish dish is essentially a roast pig served with potatoes and a brown sauce. It is very popular during Christmas. 

Mantecados and Polvorones : These are tiny, baked Christmas cookies often served with wine. 

Hacks & tips to visit Barcelona in December

• December is a great time to visit. Expect low accommodation prices and fewer crowds around major attractions.
• If you’re interested in watching the sunrise in Barcelona at popular attractions, it’s a lot easier since the sun rises two hours later than usual. 
• December 6 is Constitution Day in Spain so a lot of locals get the day off and head to Barcelona making it unusually crowded for December. 
• Don’t forget to pick up souvenirs from the Christmas markets since they’re only available once a year.
• Wear layers of clothing and carry warm clothes since the weather is cooler in December. 

Explore Barcelona Through the Year

Frequently asked questions about visiting barcelona in december.

Yes, Barcelona in December has a cool, pleasant weather and fewer tourist crowds.

The best things to do in Barcelona in December include visiting top attractions such as Sagrada Familia , Camp Nou and Casa Batllo among many others. You can also explore Barcelona's theme parks , watch a flamenco show or go on a day trip while visiting Barcelona in December.

The average temperature of Barcelona in December ranges between a high of 13ºC and a low of 5º.

Barcelona in December is cold as it is a winter month. Expect temperatures averaging between 13ºC and 5º.

The sea is cool in December and might be difficult to swim in because of the temperature.

Though it is winter in December, the days are sunny and pleasant.

Bring jackets, light coats, sweaters, scarves and other things to layer yourself with.

It rains for not more than 5 days in Barcelona in December.

Barcelona in December is budget friendly because it is off season. Hotel and air fare prices are lower than the rest of the year. You can plan an inexpensive vacation by booking your tickets in advance online.

Barcelona is generally safe for tourists. Watch out for pickpockets and petty thieves.

La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Vicens, Casa Mila, Christmas Markets are some of the many attractions you can visit with much fewer crowds in Barcelona in November.

Fira de Santa Llúcia, El Dia dels Sants Innocents are some major events in Barcelona in December.

The average high is 13.8°C and the average low is 5.2°C in Barcelona in December.

Take your kids to a traditional Christmas market and museum hopping are exciting things to do with your kids in Barcelona in December.

Barcelona in December: Weather and What to Do

Visiting Barcelona in December can be a magical experience, as the city transforms into a winter wonderland with its beautiful Christmas lights and decorations.

When visiting the city, you may want to know what the weather in Barcelona is like. Don’t let the fact that December is a winter month in Barcelona put you off. This festive month is still an excellent opportunity to explore the city.

Barcelona is a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do in December, making it an ideal destination for a winter break.

Let us show you why December in Barcelona is the most wonderful time of the year.

Guide to Barcelona – December

Barcelona may be considered a summer city for fun in the sun, but you shouldn’t dismiss it so quickly as a winter city. While you may not be able to swim in the sea or laze on the beach, there are still many perks to visiting this spectacular city in the winter.

One of the perks of visiting Spain in December is that it is generally less busy than the peak summer months. However, booking accommodations and attractions in advance is still advisable, especially during the Christmas and New Year’s periods.

In December, you can expect Christmas markets and festive events all around the city, but they are generally spread out and easily navigated. The main attractions, like the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, are less crowded in December than during summer, making it a great time to visit.

As for pricing, December is considered a low season for tourism in Barcelona, so prices for accommodations, flights, and attractions are generally lower than during the peak summer months. However, prices may be higher during Christmas and New Year.

Barcelona in December offers an outstanding balance of cultural events and attractions without the overwhelming crowds of the peak tourist season. Plus, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere and explore the city’s landmarks and museums without breaking the bank.

Barcelona Weather in December

Although the weather in Spain in December may be chilly, it’s still mild compared to many other European cities.

In Barcelona, the weather in December can be somewhat unpredictable. The temperature typically ranges from around 48°F (9°C) to 59°F (15°C), with an average of about 54°F (12°C).

While the days are typically sunny and pleasant, it’s not uncommon to experience cloudy, rainy, or even windy weather during this time of year.

Quick Tip : To be prepared for the weather, dress in layers and bring an umbrella, just in case.

Despite the occasional chill, December is a great time to visit Barcelona, as the city’s holiday festivities and seasonal decorations add to its charm. The cooler weather also makes it easier to explore outdoor attractions, like the Gothic Quarter, without the sweltering heat of the summer months.

The weather in Barcelona, Spain, in December may not be as consistently sunny and warm as other times of the year. But it’s still a great time to experience the city’s unique culture and festive holiday spirit.

What to Pack For Spain in December

When packing for the weather in Barcelona in December, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll need a warm coat or jacket, preferably waterproof or water-resistant.

Barcelona can be quite rainy in December, so it’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella. Also bring these essentials for staying cozy in the chilly weather:

• Warm sweaters
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Pants or jeans to keep your legs warm.

Barcelona is a fashionable city, so you’ll want to pack stylish clothing for evenings out. Consider bringing dressier outfits and comfortable shoes for exploring the city’s nightlife and restaurants. Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing during the day is also a good idea.

Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential too if you plan on doing any outdoor activities.

Lastly, remember any necessary electronics and accessories, such as a camera, phone charger, and travel adapter.

When packing for Barcelona in December, it’s important to prioritize warmth and comfort while also considering the city’s stylish atmosphere. By packing accordingly, you’ll be able to fully enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer, even in the colder winter months.

What to do in Barcelona in December

Even though you may not want to swim in the sea, there is still plenty to do in Barcelona in December. This dazzling city still offers unique architecture, delicious tapas, and great nightlife. The local festive spirit adds a special charm to adventures around the city during this time. There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona in December.

Be Enchanted by Christmas Markets and Lights

One of the most popular events in December is the Fira de Santa Llucia , the traditional Christmas market, which takes place in the city center.

Here, you can browse stalls selling traditional Catalan gifts and decorations, such as the famous “caga tió” (a Christmas log with a face and a red hat). You can also enjoy some delicious seasonal treats like churros with hot chocolate.

Top Tip: Go on a Merry Markets Private Christmas Tour to experience Christmas in Catalonia like a local.

Another must-see attraction during the holiday season is the Nativity Scene, or “Pessebre,” displayed in the Gothic Quarter. This intricate, life-size representation of the birth of Jesus is a beloved tradition in Catalonia, and visitors can marvel at the intricate details and figurines.

Take the time to marvel at the Christmas lights. Barcelona lights up with festive lights during December, a magical sight to behold. The best places to see the Christmas lights include Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gracia, and La Rambla.

Top Tip : Take a customizable Private Christmas Walking Tour with a drink in hand and explore historic Barrio Gótico as it is lit up with colorful lights.

Attend a Concert and go Museum Hopping

December is a great time to attend a concert or show. The city has a thriving arts scene, and there are plenty of concerts, shows, and performances to enjoy in December.

The Gran Teatre del Liceu is a great place to catch a classical music performance, while the Palau de la Musica Catalana is an iconic venue for jazz and other genres.

Due to the relatively quiet nature of the city during this time, it is the perfect opportunity to visit the city’s museums, to get a feel for the history and culture, while escaping the cold. Barcelona is home to some of the world’s most impressive museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miro Foundation.

Top Tip : Get to know one of the best street artists of the century and visit the Bansky Museum in Barcelona for an unforgettable experience!

Visit Landmarks and do Some Shopping

Barcelona is known for its unique architecture and there are several fascinating landmarks around the city. December is a great time to visit landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló , as there are fewer crowds than in the peak tourist season.

Winter in Barcelona is still the perfect time to enjoy tapas and sip wine or enjoy a night of traditional flamenco dancing. And remember to take advantage of the international shopping experience for your Christmas shopping needs.

Final Thoughts | Barcelona in December

There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona in December, and you are sure to have a memorable experience exploring the city’s festive atmosphere and cultural offerings.

While the weather may be chilly, Barcelona still has plenty to offer in December.

Overall, visiting Barcelona in December offers a unique and festive atmosphere that will delight visitors of all ages.

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Why Visit Barcelona in December

Planning a trip to Barcelona this December?  Or wondering what to do in December in Barcelona?  Barcelona is a fantastic destination for a winter vacation and in this post, I’ll share why you should visit Barcelona in December, what to expect from December weather in Barcelona, what to wear, where to stay and the best things to do in Barcelona in December – as well as everything else you might need to enjoy your Barcelona December vacation!

This site contains affiliate links. If you click through the links on this page and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Thank you for supporting Why Visit Barcelona. [Learn more]

Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Before travelling to Barcelona, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out, even in the quieter seasons.

⭐ TOP 3 BARCELONA ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:

1: Sagrada Familia Skip the Line Ticket  – a must-see in Barcelona!

2: Park Guell Admission Ticket – colourful mosaic terraces and gorgeous views

3: Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour – stunning Modernist Building & rooftop

🛌 MY FAVOURITE HOTELS IN BARCELONA:

$$$: W Barcelona – a luxurious hotel on Barceloneta Beach, with great views of the sea

$$ : Sercotel Hotel Rosellon – Incredible view of the Sagrada Familia from some rooms and terrace

$ : Chic & Basic Lemon Boutique Hotel – great value hotel near Plaça Catalunya

❗BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS❗

Although Barcelona is a safe city, pickpockets are a problem here, particularly in popular tourist areas and on the metro.  Use a  theft-proof backpack and consider getting some hidden-pocket clothing to keep your belongings safe.

Is December a Good Time to Visit Barcelona?

Barcelona is a great city to explore at almost any time of year, but Barcelona celebrates Christmas in style, making December in Barcelona a wonderful experience.  There are lots of festive activities in Barcelona to enjoy, as well as the usual epic things to do in Barcelona all year round.

Christmas markets pop up around the city from the end of November, and the streets are filled with colourful lights.  And if you visit Barcelona in December you’ll find fewer tourists and cheaper prices than during the peak summer season, as well as relatively mild weather compared to other parts of Europe in December.

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Pros and Cons of Visiting Barcelona in December

Pros of coming to barcelona in december.

Fewer Tourists : December is part of the low season, so you’ll encounter fewer tourists. This means shorter lines and less crowded attractions, although Christmas events will still be busy.

Milder Weather :  Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate, so while it is cooler in December, temperatures are relatively mild compared to many other European destinations. You can expect average highs around 15°C (59°F) and lows around 6°C (43°F), although with climate change it is getting harder to predict!

Festive Atmosphere :  The city is beautifully decorated for Christmas, with lights, markets, and festive events, and it’s one of my favourite times of year in Barcelona.

Lower Prices :  Flights and accommodations are generally cheaper compared to the peak summer months, making December a more budget-friendly time to visit Barcelona.

Cultural Experiences :  There are numerous cultural events and celebrations in Barcelona in December, including Christmas markets (Fira de Santa Llúcia) and New Year’s Eve festivities. You can also experience traditional Catalan Christmas customs like the Caga Tió de Nadal which is like nothing else I’ve ever seen!

Cons of a December Barcelona Vacation

Cooler Weather :  While relatively mild compared to many other places in the northern hemisphere, the weather in Barcelona can still be chilly, especially in the evenings. You won’t be able to enjoy beach activities or the heat that Barcelona is (in)famous for in the summer.

Shorter Days :  December days are short, with the sun setting around 5:30 PM which limits the amount of daylight you have for sightseeing.  Plan your days (and nights) accordingly so you don’t miss out.

Some Attractions Might Have Limited Hours :  Certain attractions or restaurants may have reduced hours or may be closed for holidays. It’s important to check ahead to ensure that key sites you want to visit will be open.

Rain :  December can be one of the wetter months in Barcelona, so you might encounter some rainy days. It’s wise to bring an umbrella and plan some indoor activities just in case.

Barcelona Weather in December

The weather in Barcelona during the winter and around Christmas time is generally very pleasant.  The low altitude and proximity to the Mediterranean Sea mean that Barcelona has much milder temperatures than other Spanish cities such as Granada or Madrid in winter.

While it does rain occasionally (an average of 3 or 4 days each month for December), blue skies are the norm, and nothing cheers me up more than a crisp, sunny winter morning – especially on Christmas Day!  If it does rain, there are still plenty of things to do in Barcelona on a rainy day so don’t worry too much.

Barcelona December temperatures average 12-14°C during the day, sometimes warmer, then drop to around 6°C at night.  Once the sun goes down you will notice the temperature drops quickly.

Snow in Barcelona is very rare, so don’t expect a White Christmas in Barcelona.  If you plan to visit more of Catalonia or head up to the mountains of Andorra for some skiing you can expect snow there, but not often in the city itself.

What to Wear in Barcelona in December

Layered Clothing : While the weather in Barcelona is usually pretty mild, you will still be glad for layers – especially once the sun goes down.  Start with a lightweight, long-sleeved shirt or top as a base layer, and then add a sweater or cardigan for warmth. You can easily remove layers if the day warms up.

Warm Jacket or Coat : Bring a jacket or coat that provides some protection against wind and rain. A waterproof or water-resistant jacket with a hood is ideal.

Umbrella : A compact, travel-sized umbrella can be very useful due to the chance of rain in December.

Scarf and Accessories : A scarf can keep you warm on cooler days and add a stylish touch to your outfit. I love my travel scarf with a hidden pocket which keeps my valuables safe from pickpockets too!  I always have a hat and gloves for cooler evenings as well, as it can get chilly wandering around Christmas markets in the evenings.

Jeans or Trousers : During the day women could get away with warm tights and skirts, but on cooler days opt for jeans or comfortable trousers to keep you warm. Dark-coloured jeans can be dressed up for evenings out.

Comfortable Shoes : Comfortable walking shoes are a must as you’ll likely be exploring the city on foot. Waterproof or water-resistant shoes are a good choice due to the possibility of rain.  Simple black boots are perfect for an evening out.

Unless you plan on going out to very fancy places, high-heeled shoes aren’t necessary, a simple pair of boots (with a heel or flat) will be enough for most restaurants and bars.  In general, Barcelona is quite a casual city, at least in my experience!

If you plan on spending New Year’s Eve in Barcelona then check the dress code for where you are planning to go, in case you need something more elegant.

Slippers or Warm Socks: It might seem like an odd inclusion to your Barcelona packing list, but I would also suggest bringing some slippers or warm socks for when you are back at your accommodation.  Because it gets so hot in the summer in Barcelona, many hotels and apartments don’t have carpet, and during the winter the tiles are cold to walk on!

As for style, pretty much anything goes in Barcelona, although locals tend to prefer darker, muted colours.  If you’re wondering what else to pack for Barcelona, check out my full Barcelona packing list .

Other Barcelona Travel Essentials

Don’t forget essential travel essentials like a theft-proof backpack for keeping your belongings safe, a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste, a portable power bank and a universal adapter to charge your electronic devices so you don’t run out of battery and miss out on photo opportunities!

Before you travel to Spain, check if your phone contract includes roaming in Spain, and if you have any data allowance to use while you are travelling.  To avoid excess charges for roaming data use, an eSIM is a cheap and useful way to make sure you stay connected, as long as your phone is eSIM compatible.

Airalo is super easy to set up and sends you email notifications when your eSIM is about to expire so you can top up easily if needed. Their eSIMs for Spain start from $4.50 for 1GB of data which lasts for 7 days.

Remember to bring your passport, travel insurance , identification, and any other necessary documents. Additionally, have a copy of your hotel reservations, emergency contact numbers, and a map or guidebook for navigating the city.

• Christmas in Barcelona

While the Christmas decorations in Barcelona usually are up from the end of November through to the start of January, Christmas Eve in Barcelona is more important than Christmas Day – it’s the 24 th when most families get together for the big meal.

Gifts on the other hand are traditionally saved for January 6 th , when the Three Kings bring all the presents in a fantastical parade the evening of January 5 th so it may be worth extending your trip if you want to see this. The parade begins when the three Kings arrive by boat into Port Vell and move through the streets of Barcelona, throwing sweets to the watching children as they pass by.

Barcelona Christmas Lights

I love walking around and looking at the pretty Christmas lights that appear all around Barcelona at the end of November.  They light up the streets with beautiful patterns and colours all through December until they’re taken down after Kings Day on January 6 th .

They are illuminated from Sundays to Thursdays from 5.30 pm to 10 pm, and Fridays and Saturdays until 11 pm with special hours for New Year’s Eve and Twelfth Night until 1am.

The main shopping street of Avda. del Portal de l’Angel is usually decorated, as is Plaça Catalunya.  The large El Corte Ingles store on Plaça Catalunya also has Christmas lights and decorations.

Starting at Plaça Catalunya, the walk up Passeig de Gracia is another wonderful place to see the decorations, wandering up the wide avenue past some of the most iconic buildings in Barcelona such as Gaudí’s Casa Batlló and La Pedrera.

Barcelona Christmas Bus Tour

You can book a Christmas Lights tour of Barcelona by bus which will take you to some of Barcelona’s most iconic sites that are beautifully decked out for Christmas, including The Sagrada Família, the Arc del Triomf and Passeig de Gràcia.

There are only certain dates available with an English-speaking guide if you want to listen to the commentary, or just enjoy the lights.  The tour begins and ends in Plaça Catalunya.

Barcelona Christmas Markets

The Christmas Markets in Barcelona are the best place to find unique souvenirs from Barcelona in the wintertime.  There are craft stalls where local artisans sell their wares such as handmade jewellery, leather goods and woodwork, as well as traditional Christmas stalls selling nativity sets, Christmas trees, decorations and caganers (more on that below).

One thing that might surprise you about Barcelona Christmas Markets is that there is no mulled wine to drink !  Some Christmas markets have a few stalls selling food such as churros (donuts with hot chocolate), but the main focus is on decorations and gifts.

La Fira de Santa Llúcia

Open from the 24th of November to the 23rd of December, from 10am to 9pm every day.

The Fira de Santa Llúcia in the square in front of the Gothic Cathedral is one of the main Christmas markets in Barcelona.  There are stalls selling Christmas trees and decorations, with several selling caganers .  It is also a nice place to shop for Christmas gifts and souvenirs, with plenty of stalls selling unique, handmade items.

There are no food stalls here, although there are plenty of bars and restaurants in the Gothic Quarter where you can go for something to eat and drink before or after you stroll around the market.  The Hotel Colon in the square also has a rooftop terrace where you can go for a drink with a view of the market from above.

La Fira de la Sagrada Familia

Open from the 25th of November until the 23rd of December, from 10am to 9pm, or until 10pm on weekends and holidays.

As the name suggests, the Sagrada Familia Christmas Market is held around the Plaça de la Sagrada Familia.  It is a great place to come for Christmas trees and decorations, and the smell of pine and eucalyptus fills the air.

These stalls are lined up all along the street around the square, and there are some stalls selling gifts which are mostly found in the centre of the square.

There are a few food stalls too, mainly selling sweet treats like churros (long donuts) and hot chocolate, pancakes and candy floss.

El Mercat de Nadal al Port del Moll de la Fusta

Open from the 5th of December until the closing day on 6th of January, from 11am to 11pm.

This is the biggest Christmas Market in Barcelona, and as well as stalls selling decorations and gifts there are more food stands here as well as a beer stall – although I still haven’t found any mulled wine!

There are also fairground rides like a carousel and Ferris wheel, live music performances and lots of kids activities including a 400m2 synthetic, eco-friendly ice-rink.

La Fira de Reis Gran Vía

Open from the 15th of December until 6th of January, from 10am to 10pm during the week and until midnight on weekends and holidays

The Three Kings Fair takes place along the pavements of Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, between the streets of Muntaner and Rocafort, where you can find a variety of stalls selling Christmas gifts, toys and crafts, as well as some churro donut stands.

Responsible Consumption and Social and Solidarity Economy Fair in Plaça de Catalunya

Open from 15th to 29th December (closed on Christmas Day & Boxing Day), from 11 am 8.30 pm, closing at 4pm on Christmas Eve

If you’re looking for sustainable Christmas gifts or some ideas on how to be more sustainable at Christmas and throughout the year, then this is the fair for you.  There will be 50 stalls on the outer circle of Plaça de Catalunya selling sustainable craft products, clothing and textiles, books, cosmetics, games and more.

Barcelona Nativity Scenes

Religion still plays a major part in the Christmas festivities in Barcelona, and you can find intricate nativity scenes for sale at all of the Christmas markets.  The care and detail that go into the nativities are remarkable, including things like windmills with moving sails, running water features and a range of people and animals to decorate the scene.

As well the sections of nativity scenes you can buy, there are large nativity displays set up in a few key places and important buildings around the city.  Keep an eye open for the caganer  a pooping figure which appears in every Catalan nativity scene, somewhere out of sight of the holy family!

Plaça Sant Jaume

The largest nativity is usually at Plaça Sant Jaume in the Gothic Quarter, with decorations set up in the middle of the square.  It can get busy in the evenings and weekends so try to visit during the week if you can.  The lights are more impressive after dark.

Museu Frederic Marès

The Museu Frederic Marès next to the cathedral always has a traditional nativity scene, which is free to view during the opening hours.

Bizarre Catalan Christmas Traditions in Barcelona

One of the more bizarre and fun parts of Christmas in Barcelona is experiencing the Catalan obsession with poo.  Yes poo.  Definitely a bit odd, but great fun – and always a conversation starter when you bring a souvenir back home!

Caganers – Pooping People

In each nativity scene where Mary and Joseph are tending to the baby Jesus, somewhere hidden away will be a model of someone with their trousers around their ankles and pooping.  While they are never in view of Jesus (that would be disrespectful), the caganer pooping man is always there somewhere – can you spot him in the Nativity Scene below?

Caganers are traditionally dressed in the Catalan outfit of white trousers and shirt with a red belt and cap, but these days you can find caganers of all shapes and sizes – including famous football players, pop stars and movie characters.  Your life will never be the same once you’ve seen Dracula, Madonna and Superman doing their business next to each other, I assure you!

Caga Tió – Uncle Crapper

Even more bizarre than the caganer is the pooping log known as Caga Tió .  Made from a chunk of a tree log, with the addition of a smiling face and jaunty cap, Caga Tió is filled with sweets and then beaten by children with sticks until he poops out his sweet presents.  Merry Pooping Christmas to you too!

There are huge log-size Caga Tiós available to buy, and a range of smaller sizes including mini ones which make

Other Christmas Events in Barcelona

Christmas festival in plaça catalunya.

Open from 16th to 29th December, from 11 am to 2 pm and from 4.30 pm to 9 pm

The Christmas Festival is an extensive programme of street art, music, installations and digital arts in Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Universitat.  The mornings are dedicated to family activities, with the afternoons focussing on music and street arts; and at night it will be time for large format activities.

Els Llums de Sant Pau

Els Llums de Sant Pau (Sant Pau Lights) transform the Hospital de Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site into a spectacular winter wonderland full of Christmas lights. There are audiovisual installations as well as the more usual festive lights, and the chance to skate on an ice rink amid the Art Nouveau architecture.   Check the website for details and entry tickets.

Casa Batlló Christmas Light Show

Every evening, from 6:30pm to 9:30pm Casa Batlló has a visual show of light and music on its façade during the Christmas and winter seasons from November 17 to January 7

Every 30 minutes, a 3-minute light and music show brings this iconic Barcelona façade to life which is free for everyone to enjoy.  You can also buy tickets to A Winter Night visit to go inside Casa Batlló to see one of Gaudí’s most famous works up close, with special light and music projections.

• New Year in Barcelona

If you stay in the city until the end of December, New Year’s Eve in Barcelona is usually a big party night, with the main city fireworks display held at Avinguda Maria Cristina by Placa d’Espanya.  The event is free to attend, but it gets extremely busy, so you can often get better views from nearby balconies and terraces.

Pretty much any apartment or hotel with a view of the city will give you a great experience of the fireworks on New Year’s Eve – last year I was on a terrace close to La Sagrada Familia, and we could watch displays right across Barcelona.

One thing you must do in Barcelona on New Year’s Eve is to eat grapes.  This Spanish tradition involves listening for the clock chimes at midnight and eating a grape for every chime.

It is more difficult than it sounds – but much easier with seedless grapes! You can buy a pack of 12 seedless ready-to-eat grapes like the one in the photo below, although it is definitely a waste of plastic!

What to do in Barcelona in December

Once you’ve had your fill of the festivities there are plenty of non-Christmassy things to do in Barcelona in December to keep you busy as well.  The best thing about visiting Barcelona in the winter is that you can pretty much do anything you would do at any other time of the year – just with an extra jacket!

Because the weather in Barcelona stays pretty mild most of the year, and you get plenty of sunshine, there are very few activities that are off-limits.

That said, opening times of attractions vary during the holiday period so check in advance to make sure they are open.  You’ll also need to be aware of the shorter daylight hours which can impact your sightseeing; the sun rises in Barcelona between 8am and 8.20am in December, and sets between 5.20pm and 5.30pm.

When you come to Barcelona in December, the weather can be changeable, so check out things to do in the rain if you do get poor weather.

These itineraries are not specific for visiting Barcelona in December but can give you some guidance:

• How to Spend 1 Day in Barcelona
• 2 Days in Barcelona Itinerary
• 3 Days in Barcelona Itinerary

And these articles have some more tips and recommendations for you, or scroll down for some of my favourite things to do in December in Barcelona:

• Free Things to Do in Barcelona
• Things to do in Barcelona at Night
• Hidden Gems in Barcelona

Book in Advance for Barcelona’s Top Attractions

Even though December isn’t peak season in Barcelona, it can still get busy so you should still plan ahead and book in advance where you can, as tickets for top attractions can sell out, especially for special Christmas events.  Some of the best tours and activities in Barcelona you need to book include:

• Sagrada Familia Entry Ticket
• Sagrada Familia Tour
• Camp Nou and FC Barcelona Museum
• Park Guell 
• Casa Batllo
• La Pedrera (Casa Mila)

I use GetYourGuide to book tours and tickets as I love how you can choose from a variety of options to find the best for you, comparing prices and reading reviews.

Using GetYourGuide means you also get immediate confirmation once you’ve booked which is perfect for last-minute plans, and (in most cases) when you book in advance you can cancel up to 24 hours before the activity in case your plans change.

Get Great Views of Barcelona

With Barcelona’s enviable position between el mar y la montanya (the mountain and the sea) there are plenty of opportunities to see the city from above.  Park Güell has some splendid views from the terrace, as does the public park in the hills above Park Güell.

The Bunkers at El Carmel provide another of the best views in Barcelona , from what remains of civil war anti-aircraft bunkers on the hill above the city.  Winter is a great time to take advantage of shorter days, so relatively early risers could get up here for sunrise, or you can enjoy spectacular views at any time of the day.

If you fancy hiking in Barcelona, Serra de Collserola Natural Park is crisscrossed with footpaths so you could hike up there or to Tibidabo for even more impressive views of the city.  Cooler Barcelona winter temperatures in December make hiking much more pleasurable than in the scorching summer heat, so it’s a perfect time to stretch your legs on a sunny day.

Visit the Museums in Barcelona

If the weather gets too cold or too wet to be outdoors, take your pick of the top Barcelona museums – there are so many museums here you are bound to find something for everyone!  Some of the most popular museums in Barcelona include the Picasso Museum, the MNAC National Art Museum of Catalonia, The Maritime Museum and plenty more.

Barcelona Money Saving Tip

If you get to the MNAC quite late in the day you can also enjoy the experience of seeing the fountains in front of the museum at night.  The Magic Fountain show is one of the most popular things to do in Barcelona, and well worth a look – but it has been closed due to drought restrictions so check to make sure it is reopened again before you go! ( see the official website here )

Admire Some of Gaudí’s Architectural Works

One of the things Barcelona is famous for is the Modernist Architecture of Antoni Gaudí.  His magnificent designs are all over the city, but they are popular so plan ahead if you can and buy your tickets in advance.

La Sagrada Familia Cathedral is Barcelona’s most famous landmark and the emblem of the city.  Even just viewing this incredible cathedral from the outside is an experience, but I’d highly recommend paying to go inside La Sagrada Familia to truly appreciate this incredible place.

Make sure you buy your tickets in advance as there are no longer any ticket offices on site, you have to buy tickets online.  I’d also recommend taking a guided tour as you will learn a lot more about Gaudí and his designs, and have as much time as you like after the tour to wander around.

My other personal favourite is Park Güell , originally designed to be a kind of housing estate, it is now a park with a magical mosaic dragon, fairytale style buildings and a mosaic terrace with fabulous views of the city.  It’s best to visit in the afternoon once the sun has moved around and you can enjoy the views without the glare.

Aside from these, you could also pay a visit to La Pedrera (Casa Mila), Casa Batlló, Palau Guell and other Gaudi buildings in Barcelona,  or spend some time enjoying works by other Modernist architects like the Palau de la Musica Catalana , el Hospital de Sant Pau or Casa Amatller.

Walk Along the Beach

While it isn’t usually sunbathing weather, walking along the beach in Barcelona is always a joy, especially on a crisp sunny day in December.  The summer chiringuito beach bars are closed, but there are still some beachfront restaurants where you can grab a bite to eat or a drink as you gaze out into the big blue.

Alternatively, stroll along the sand and sit on one of the many benches to admire the view.  One of my favourite places to get away from the hustle and bustle is along the Moll del Gregal opposite the two towers at Vila Olímpica del Poblenou.

Eat the Delicious Food

For me, one of the best ways to experience a city is through its food.  And Barcelona has some delicious food waiting for you to try!  As well as eating all the tapas you can find, why not take a food tour to guide you around the best places to eat in Barcelona?

There are some excellent food tours in Barcelona to choose from, and Devour Tours is my favourite company, offering several different food tours in the Gothic Quarter and El Born, and Gracia.

Check out my reviews of two of Devour’s food tours here:

• Devour Gracia Food Tour
• Tastes & Traditions of Barcelona Food Tour 

Alternatively, a paella cooking class is a wonderful way to try some traditional dishes as you learn to make them yourself as well as enjoy the delicious fruits of your labour!

If you prefer to explore Barcelona’s food scene yourself, these are a few dishes you absolutely must try during your visit, and check out my article about Christmas in Barcelona if you plan to have Christmas Dinner at a restaurant in the city.

Escudella i Carn d’Olla

This is a traditional Catalan Christmas dish, which is a broth containing a variety of meats and vegetables. It’s often served with large pasta shapes called “ galets ” and is a festive staple in many households.  You can either eat it all at once or have the meat and vegetables as one dish, and the broth with the pasta (known as sopa de galets ) separately.

Rostit de Nadal

The Christmas Roast is another typical Catalan dish, which is usually a roast chicken or duck, stuffed with dried fruits such as prunes, raisins, apricots and pine nuts.

In Barcelona, it’s also common to enjoy seafood during Christmas. Prawns, lobster, and other seafood dishes like bacalao (salted cod) and suquet de peix (fish stew) may be featured in festive meals.  Of course, you can get paella and fresh seafood all year round – a paella cooking class is a great way to keep warm on cold days, and tasty too!

In Catalonia, it’s a tradition to serve canelons (cannelloni) on December 26th, known as Saint Stephen’s Day. These pasta tubes are stuffed with the leftover meat from the previous day’s escudella or roast , and served baked in a bechamel sauce.  You’ll find canelons in many traditional Catalan restaurants and tapas bars throughout December.

Polvorones and Mantecados

These are crumbly and sweet shortbread-like cookies that are often enjoyed during the Christmas season. They come in various flavours and can be found in bakeries and supermarkets.

Turron is a nougat confection made with almonds and honey, and you’ll find a variety of turrones (different types of nougat) and marzipan during the holiday season. These sweets are often enjoyed after meals or as snacks and also make excellent souvenirs to take home.

These rolled wafer biscuits are another sweet treat to enjoy after dinner.  It’s common to have them with a glass of cava, on their own, or even with some Crema Catalana dessert.

Spanish Wines and Cava

Spain is famous for its wines, and during Christmas, many people enjoy a glass of wine or Cava (Spanish sparkling wine) to accompany their festive meals.

Tortell de Reis 

While this is more associated with the celebration of Epiphany (January 6th), the Tortell de Reis , a sweet, ring-shaped bread adorned with candied fruits and sometimes filled with cream or other sweet fillings, is often enjoyed throughout the holiday season.

Final Thoughts on Spending December in Barcelona

I hope this has convinced you to travel to Barcelona this December, and while it might not be beach weather there are still plenty of awesome things to do here.  Do you have more suggestions for how to spend December in Barcelona?  I’d love to hear them, this is just a taste of all the December Barcelona activities you could do!

Want to Know More About the Best Time to Visit Barcelona?

• Barcelona in January
• Barcelona in February
• Barcelona in March
• Barcelona in April
• Barcelona in May
• Barcelona in June
• Barcelona in July
• Barcelona in August
• Barcelona in September
• Barcelona in October
• Barcelona in November
• Barcelona in December
• Barcelona in Winter

Claire Sturzaker

I'm Claire and I love Barcelona! I first came to Barcelona as a student almost 20 years ago, and adore this city. I want to share all of my insider tips to help you to enjoy Barcelona as much as I do. If you want to visit Barcelona and have an amazing time – you are in the right place!

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December in Barcelona: What to Do + Events & Concerts (2023)

December in Barcelona is a month of enchantment: the autumn hues give way, and the city welcomes the festive spirit of winter.

That’s all well and good, but what to do in Barcelona in December?

Don’t fret – I’m here to cover all the Barcelona December events, concerts, and must-visit attractions!

Is December a Good Time to Visit Barcelona?

Yes, December is a great time to visit Barcelona!

As the city gears up for the holiday season, the streets come alive with twinkling lights , and traditional Christmas markets, like the renowned Santa Llucia Fair , spring up,

One of the significant advantages of visiting Barcelona in December is the relatively fewer crowds .

With less people at Barcelona’s best things to do , you’ll be able to live a more intimate experience .

⚠️  Warning ⚠️ : Barcelona’s top two attractions must now be booked in advance .

You can book fast track tickets to both individually or get them as part of a discount pass:

• ⛪ Buy now:  Sagrada Familia Fast Track Admission (skip the lines)
• 🏞️ Buy now:  Park Guell Fast Track Admission  (skip the lines)
• 🎟️  Buy now: Best of Barcelona Bundle (Sagrada + Park Guell + 10% discount code for all else)

You will not be able to book these tickets on site – lock in your tickets ASAP or you could miss out.

What’s the Weather Like in December?

December in Barcelona is a refreshing change from the biting cold of many European cities – there’s no shame in planning a Barcelona itinerary for this month!

With daytime temperatures comfortably sitting between 8°C to 15°C , it’s cool but not freezing.

This mild winter climate is perfect for tourists wanting to explore the city without the extreme cold. While snow is rare, the occasional rain adds a romantic touch to Barcelona architecture .

Stuck in the rain? Check my list of indoor activities in Barcelona .

Similar months in Barcelona : Barcelona in November

What to Do in Barcelona in December

Christmas Markets & Traditions

Barcelona’s Christmas markets are a blend of tradition and festivity .

The Santa Llucia Fair , set against the backdrop of the Barcelona Cathedral , dates back centuries. From handcrafted ornaments to traditional Catalan Christmas log figures (the famous cagatio , pictured), it’s a festive paradise.

Other December markets include the Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família and the Fira de Nadal del Port Vell near the Columbus Monument.

La Sagrada Familia

Antoni Gaudí’s unfinished masterpiece, La Sagrada Familia , is a testament to his architectural genius.

In December the basilica is less crowded , offering visitors a more intimate experience. The intricate facades , combined with the stunning interiors, make it a must-visit.

The December sun casts a magical hue on the stained glass windows, creating a mesmerizing play of light and shadow.

International masses in December run the 3rd, 10th, 17th, 20th, and 31st at 9:00 am.

Fira de Santa Llúcia

When visiting Barcelona over Christmas , this traditional Christmas fair is a treat for the senses.

At the Fira de Santa Llucia you’ll find stalls selling crafts, gifts, and festive treats, it’s a perfect place to soak in the local Christmas traditions.

The nativity scenes, traditional music, and dance performances add to the festive vibe.

2023 dates : November 25th to December 23rd.

Casa Batllo Winter Nights

With its dragon-inspired design and colourful facade, Casa Batllo is a masterpiece in any season.

In December in Barcelona though, the building gets adorned with festive decorations , enhancing its beauty.

The audio-guided tour offers insights into Gaudí’s vision and the history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Even better? Between 6:30 pm and 8:45 pm there’s a majestic night visit of Casa Batllo , featuring unique light projections in the hall and an augmented reality tablet .

Spanish Cooking Classes & Tours

Dive deep into the realm of Spanish culinary arts by taking one of the best Barcelona food tours – or learn to cook it all yourself.

Master the art of crafting iconic dishes such as paella, tapas, and churros with the expertise of seasoned chefs.

I recommend Paella Club , where you can also pick up techniques for Spanish starters and indulge in unlimited wine.

Another gem from Gaudí’s portfolio, Park Güell is a mosaic wonderland.

Overlooking the city, this park is a perfect blend of architecture and nature . The serpentine benches, the famous dragon statue , and the colourful tiles make it a visual treat.

If you’re visiting Barcelona in December, the cool breeze enhances the experience, making your visit memorable.

Try Your Hand at Ice Skating

Plaça Catalunya stands as a central and emblematic square in Barcelona , conveniently located near the Gothic Quarter and Las Ramblas .

Every December, the square hosts Europe’s grandest open-air ice rink as a Christmas highlight – operating until the beginning of January .

With the glow of festive lights, ornate decorations, and a lively atmosphere of holiday enthusiasts it’s one of the most unique skating experiences you can have .

Prices for Winter 2023 are yet to be announced.

Barcelona Christmas Tour 2023

If you want to take a tour through the streets of Barcelona and  admire  all  the spectacle of Christmas  in the city, the best way is to take the Barcelona Christmas Tour.

This  hour and a half tour with the Bus Turistic  allows you to enjoy the streets and  most emblematic buildings  of the city, specially decorated for the occasion.

The service runs November 25th to December 30th (except the 25th) with two departure times from Plaça Catalunya, at 6:00 pm and 8:00 pm.

Absolutely essential to book these Barcelona Christmas Tour tickets in advance:

Try Local Winter Delicacies

Catalan cuisine is deeply rooted in the Mediterranean tradition, and during winter, it showcases hearty dishes that provide warmth and comfort.

If I’m in Barcelona in December I’m ordering these dishes in the colder months:

• Escudella i Carn d’Olla : Catalonia’s traditional Christmas meat stew is considered the region’s oldest dish. It’s really a two-part meal – the first dish being the meat, and the second the simmered broth with pasta shells. Try at Estevet .
• Canelons : Traditionally eaten on Saint Stephen’s Day (December 26th), these pasta tubes are stuffed with leftover roasted meat from the Christmas feast, finely ground and mixed with béchamel sauce. Try at Petite Comite .
• Calçots : Calcots are a type of spring onion, and their harvest season, which starts in late winter, is celebrated with calcotadas – festive barbecues where these onions are the star. Try at Can Travi Nou .

New Year’s Eve Celebrations

As December draws to a close, Barcelona New Year’s Eve plans come into focus.

Plaça Espanya is the epicenter of festivities with fireworks, music, and dancing. The tradition of eating 12 grapes at midnight, representing good luck for each month, is a unique experience.

You should also consider booking one of the best New Year’s Eve dinner set menus .

Camp Nou + Barcelona Football Matches

Warning : In October 2023 the stadium and a large part of the museum will be closed for renovations. Barcelona FC will play the entire 2023-2024 season at the Estadi Olímpic Lluís Companys.

Camp Nou, the home ground of FC Barcelona, is a pilgrimage for football fans , and visiting the Camp Nou Museum is essential.

In December, the electrifying atmosphere of a live match is unparalleled and here’s the list of home games:

• Atletico Madrid (December 3rd)
• Girona (December 10th)
• Almeria (December 20th)

Flamenco Shows

The best flamenco shows in Barcelona , with their passionate moves and soulful music , are the heart of Spanish culture.

In Barcelona, venues like Tablao Cordobes offer authentic Flamenco experiences. The intense performances, combined with traditional Spanish cuisine , make for a memorable evening.

Get the whole dinner-drink package for an evening to remember.

Casa Mila at Night

Popularly known as La Pedrera, Casa Mila offers a unique nighttime experience – hell, it’s even at the top of my list of things to do in Barcelona at night .

Why? The illuminated courtyards and chimneys , set against the December night sky, are a sight to behold.

The audiovisual show , combined with the architectural brilliance, promises an unforgettable experience.

Museum Hopping

Barcelona is a treasure trove for art enthusiasts – and visiting Barcelona’s best museums is a great remedy for a cold winter day.

The Picasso Museum , the largest Picasso museum in the world , is a must-visit.

The Moco , with its contemporary art collections from artists like Banksy, offers a great modern contrast.

El Dia dels Sants Innocents

On December 28th, it’s Barcelona’s version of April Fool’s Day . It’s a day of pranks, fun, and laughter. From fake news stories to playful tricks , the city comes alive with jest and humour.

The most prevalent prank involves discreetly placing a paper figure ( llufa ) on someone’s back, often targeting children. However, some individuals engage in phone pranks or adding soap to fountains .

Just don’t do it at the epic Magic Fountain (pictured) – visit it instead!

Casa Vicens

Often overshadowed by Gaudí’s other works, Casa Vicens is one of Barcelona’s hidden gems .

As his first significant project, it offers insights into his early architectural style .

The vibrant tiles, unique design, and the fusion of Spanish and Arabic architecture make it stand out.

Barcelona Events in December 2023

Here’s a quick breakdown of all the best Barcelona December events for 2023:

• Fira de Santa Llucia : November 25th to December 23rd (Christmas market @ Barcelona Cathedral)
• Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família : November 29th to December 23rd (Christmas market @ Sagrada Familia)
• Fira de Nadal del Port Vell : December 5th to January 6th (Christmas market @ Port)
• Ice Skating : Late November till January 6th, 2023 (Placa de Catalunya)
• Castanyada : Chestnut cookouts with sweets (all over the city, throughout December! try at Ronda de Sant Pau, 76 )

Got any other December events on the horizon? Let me know and we’ll add it to the list!

Concerts in Barcelona in December 2023

• Greta Van Fleet : Dec 3rd and 4th (Palau Sant Jordi)
• LF System : December 9th ( Razzmatazz )
• Little Yachty : December 12th (Razzmatazz)
• Gypsy Kings : December 29th ( Palau de la Musica Catalana )

Maybe wanna visit earlier? Check out my page on visiting Barcelona in fall .

Things to Do in Barcelona in December FAQ

Yes, December is a great time to visit Barcelona. The city is adorned with festive lights and decorations, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences and holiday celebrations. Also, there are special December celebrations at some of the top attractions like Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo.

Barcelona has a mild climate in December, with temperatures ranging between 8°C to 15°C (46.4°F to 59.0°F). It’s cooler than summer but not freezing, making it pleasant enough for sightseeing but not good enough for a day at the beach.

While the sea temperatures are cooler, around 15°C (59°F), it’s generally too cold for most people to swim in Barcelona in December. However, some brave souls might venture a dip.

Snow in Barcelona during December is rare. The city experiences a mild winter with temperatures ranging between 8°C to 15°C. While the surrounding mountainous regions might receive snowfall, it’s uncommon for snow to settle in the city itself. If it does, it’s typically light and melts quickly.

When considering what to wear in Barcelona in December, layered clothing is recommended. A combination of light sweaters, a warm jacket, and comfortable shoes is ideal for daytime exploration. An umbrella might be handy for occasional rain showers.

December in Barcelona sees fewer tourists than the peak summer months, making it less crowded. However, the festive season brings local celebrations, so some areas, especially Christmas markets, can be lively. Outside of the holiday season, it’s about as empty as it gets.

In Barcelona in December the major attractions like Sagrada Familia and Casa Batllo are decorated for Christmas and generally have smaller crowds than usual. You can also check out Barcelona Christmas markets, catch FC Barcelona games, and eat local Catalan delicacies like canalons.

Ready for December in Barcelona?

Barcelona in December is a blend of tradition, festivity, and cultural richness.

The city, with its festive spirit and architectural marvels, promises an experience that’s both enchanting and memorable.

That said, if you’re still wondering what to do in Barcleona in December hit me up in the comments for custom advice! 🙏

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🚨 BOOK YOUR ATTRACTION TICKETS RIGHT AWAY TO LOCK IN YOUR SPOT!

SAGRADA FAMILIA, PARK GUELL, and CASA BATLLO sell out way in advance.

Don’t wait till you’re in Barcelona before booking or you could be left without tickets.

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Barcelona in December: Festive Delights and Winter Wonders

Christian Petzold

Barcelona in December? Think twinkling lights, a dash of Catalan charm, and streets less crowded but every bit as vibrant. Not your usual frosty winter wonderland, but who needs snow when you have Gaudí and a festive beach vibe? Dive in, and let’s discover why December in Barcelona is a hidden gem worth unearthing.

Barcelona During December

If you are expecting a snowy winter wonderland in Barcelona during December you will be rather disappointed as Catalan’s capital has usually “only” a blue and clear sky with pleasant temperatures to offer! It is never getting really cold before January and an average of 14 degrees can be expected. This makes Barcelona a perfect place to stroll around the city center and to enjoy the lovely Christmas illumination without fearing to freeze to death.

The last month of the year starts right away with a National Holiday, Constitutional Day, on 6th December. The “Dia de la Constiutión” remembers the constitution of Spain from 1978 when Spain became a democracy after many years of dictatorship. This day goes hand in hand with a special shopping day, meaning that all shops will be open for you and you don’t have to worry about necessary Christmas preparations – They won’t be affected! Other great pieces of news for all shopaholics amongst you are probably the Sunday shop openings that are allowing last-minute gift gatherings for friends and family.

To get fully into the Christmas mood without missing Barcelona’s sights you should consider a Christmas Walking Tour. You will be guided through Barcelona’s magic Gothic quarter, get insights into Spanish Christmas traditions, and explore one of the most popular Christmas markets in Barcelona, La Fira de Santa Llucia. While nipping on a hot wine you will have the chance to taste delicious nougat and to listen to heart-warming Christmas sounds.

Discovering December Delights in Barcelona

As the last page of the calendar is turned, many often wonder about things to do in Barcelona in December. Well, fret not. Barcelona in December, the month of lights, festivities, and the gentle cold promises a plethora of activities.

Christmas Festivities Galore

The first among the top things to do in Barcelona in December is immersing oneself in the city’s Christmas spirit. Barcelona’s transformation into a winter wonderland is nothing short of magical. Stroll through the Gothic Quarter, an experience that tops many lists of things to do in Barcelona in December. The narrow, cobblestone alleys illuminated by fairy lights whisk you away into a different era. At the heart of it, you might discover the vibrancy of Plaça Sant Jaume, known for hosting several Christmas events during the month.

La Rambla and Las Ramblas are other hotspots. As you saunter these iconic streets, looking for things to do in Barcelona in December, you’re greeted by festive kiosks and the delicious aroma of roasted chestnuts. Not far from these streets, the renowned Christmas market near the Barcelona Cathedral beckons, making the quest for things to do in Barcelona in December an enchanting journey.

Architectural Wonders Beckon

December’s relatively sparse crowds make visiting Barcelona’s architectural marvels a serene experience, adding another layer to things to do in Barcelona in December. Must-visit landmarks include La Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and Casa Mila – all echoing the genius of the legendary Antoni Gaudí. Their charm in the soft winter sun is unmatched.

For those jotting down things to do in Barcelona in December, Casa Vicens, Gaudí’s first significant work, is a must. Its unique blend of design influences is sure to captivate your artistic senses.

Sports, Shopping, and Serenity

For sports enthusiasts, catching an FC Barcelona match at Camp Nou tops the things to do in Barcelona in December. The thrill of live football, especially during the festive season, is a unique experience.

After the match, dive into shopping at Plaça Catalunya or indulge your taste buds at La Boqueria. And if you’re curating an art-centric list of things to do in Barcelona in December, the Picasso Museum is unmissable.

New Year’s Festivities

As the month progresses, things to do in Barcelona in December take a festive turn. New Year’s Eve sees the city gearing up for memorable celebrations. Whether you’re at a buzzing nightclub, a quaint eatery in the Gothic Quarter, or watching fireworks at Plaça Sant Jaume, the festivities ensure December ends on a high note.

To maximize your experience, consider the Barcelona card, which offers a plethora of benefits and easily becomes one of the essential things to do in Barcelona in December.

Beaches in December: Winter by the Sea

While December might not scream ‘beach weather’, Barcelona’s coastlines take on a unique charm in winter. Among the things to do in Barcelona in December is strolling down Barceloneta Beach. The winter sea breeze, accompanied by the backdrop of the city, makes for a serene experience. Grab a warm drink from the beachfront cafes and enjoy the calmness of the Mediterranean. If you’re a photography enthusiast, winter mornings at the beach can offer some spectacular shots.

Shopping Extravaganza: From Souvenirs to Christmas Gifts

December is indeed the shopping season in Barcelona. Passeig de Gràcia offers an array of high-end brands, whereas Portal de l’Àngel is perfect for more budget-friendly shopping and local boutiques. For unique festive finds, the Fira de Santa Llúcia is a must-visit. This traditional Christmas market, located near the Barcelona Cathedral, brims with crafts, food stalls, and festive decorations, making shopping one of the essential things to do in Barcelona in December.

Music and Performances: A Treat for the Senses

Barcelona, in December, is a hub for cultural experiences. From opera performances at the Liceu Opera House to concerts at the Palau de la Música Catalana, there’s a musical treat for everyone. Additionally, street performances, especially around places like La Rambla, become livelier and add a festive touch to the city’s atmosphere.

Family Activities: Delight for All Ages

Traveling with family? The city is teeming with activities suitable for both kids and adults. The Barcelona Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe and promises a deep dive into marine life. The Magic Fountain show at Montjuïc is a mesmerizing blend of water, music, and lights. For those seeking a dash of vintage charm, the Tibidabo Amusement Park, located on a hill overlooking Barcelona, offers rides and attractions with a side of panoramic views.

Barcelona’s Nightlife: December Revelries

Barcelona’s nightlife, known for its vivacity, gets a festive twist in December. Clubs and bars in districts like El Raval and El Born often host holiday events and special-themed nights. Whether you’re into electronic music, jazz, or traditional Spanish tunes, there’s a party spot waiting for you. And remember, nightlife here starts late and goes on until the early hours!

Museums and More: Dive into Culture

If you’re pondering things to do in Barcelona in December, diving deep into the city’s cultural scene is a must. The Joan Miró Foundation houses the most extensive collection of the surrealist artist’s works. The Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA) takes you on a journey through the city’s rich past. For those fascinated by marine history, the Maritime Museum near Las Ramblas showcases naval artifacts and even ancient ships.

Wellness in Barcelona: Spa Days and Retreats

After days of sightseeing and exploring, some relaxation is in order. Barcelona boasts numerous spas that combine contemporary wellness with ancient Roman and Arab bath traditions. The city’s wellness centers often offer special packages in December, making them a perfect addition to the things to do in Barcelona in December.

Local Tips and Etiquette: Blend in Like a Local

Barcelona welcomes millions of tourists, but knowing local customs can make your visit smoother. When greeting, expect a kiss on both cheeks. For dining, remember that locals have late lunches and even later dinners. Tipping isn’t mandatory, but it’s a kind gesture for excellent service.

Barcelona in December: A Traveler’s Roadmap

December is a magical month in Barcelona, and if you’re pondering about things to do in Barcelona in December, this guide has got you covered.

Art and Architecture: Modernism and Beyond

When considering things to do in Barcelona in December, diving deep into the city’s artistic heritage is a must.

Gaudí’s Grandeur: Spend a day exploring Gaudí’s architectural wonders.

• La Sagrada Familia : Witness this awe-inspiring basilica that’s a testament to Gaudí’s genius.
• Park Güell : Explore this mosaic wonderland, ranking high among things to do in Barcelona in December due to its panoramic city views.
• Casa Batlló and Casa Mila (La Pedrera) : Marvel at the unique designs of these iconic residential landmarks.
• Casa Vicens : Experience Gaudí’s earlier works and diverse inspirations.

Picasso’s Barcelona: A half-day at the Picasso Museum is among the essential things to do in Barcelona in December. Discover the artist’s deep connection with the city.

Food and Markets: A Culinary Expedition

For food enthusiasts wondering about things to do in Barcelona in December:

Local Delicacies at La Boqueria: Start your morning with a gastronomic adventure at La Boqueria market, tasting fresh produce and traditional Catalan delights.

Festive Dining: Relish special Catalan menus offered on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Historic Walks: Meandering through Time

• Walking through Barcelona’s historic streets tops the list of things to do in Barcelona in December.
• Iconic Boulevards: Enjoy an evening on La Rambla and Las Ramblas with their bustling energy and historic charm.
• Gothic Explorations: Dedicate a day to the Gothic Quarter with its medieval allure and vibrant squares.
• Barcelona Cathedral and Santa Maria del Mar: Find peace at these iconic spiritual havens.
• Camp Nou Experience: Experience the electrifying world of football at Camp Nou.
• Search for El Caganer and celebrate New Year’s Eve in true Barcelona style.

Traveler’s Essential Tips

• Planning and Savings: Crafting a flexible Barcelona itinerary and utilizing the Barcelona Card are among the smart things to do in Barcelona in December to make the most of your trip.

And there you have it – a December in Barcelona, wrapped up with a festive bow. While it may not fit the snow-globe holiday image, it offers a winter warmth that’s uniquely its own. From Gaudí’s masterpieces glowing softly in the winter light to beachside strolls with a hint of Yuletide, Barcelona proves why it’s a December destination like no other. Until next time, keep your winter spirits high and your travel dreams endless!

This post contains affiliate or sponsored links. We might be paid for posting them or if you click on them or buy through them.  If the affiliate link would increase your costs, we wouldn’t use it. Your trust is more important than any commission. More about our links policy  here .

Ultimate Guide For A Great December In Barcelona

Everything you need to know if you are visiting barcelona in december.

There’s two main reasons to travel in December. Those who travel in early December want to avoid the crowds, and those who travel in late December want to experience Christmas and New Year’s Eve abroad. 

Does it sound like you? Is there a reason you should consider visiting Barcelona for your December trip? Sure! And in today’s post I want to share with you the pros and cons, what to take into account and the unique things to plan that will make your trip special and personal. 

This is not a post listing tourist sites and activities: this is a post about what makes Barcelona special in December. We'll discuss holiday dates you weren't expecting, quirky local traditions, food you only see this time of the year, unique winter activities and more. Enjoy!

Is December a good time to visit Barcelona?

The main advantage of visiting Barcelona in December is the experience the city Christmas vibe. I’ll dedicate an entire section of this post to discuss Christmas markets, lights, nativities and other special local Christmas traditions.

The other advantage is that the rest of the year the Spanish law forces shops to stay closed on Sunday and holidays. However there’s certain days of the year where they are allowed to open and most of the time, that includes a few December dates (keep reading for more info about them). However, beware the winter sales season doesn’t start in Spain until January 7.

But from the first weekend of December on, there’ll be crowds. On the days around December 6 and 8, crowds of Spaniards. And as Christmas approaches, it’ll be travelers from all over the world right until January 1st.  And that means lines at the sites, more expensive flight and hotel rates and more difficulties to hit a reservation in the most popular restaurants.

Shorter daylight hours are another drawback. The sun sets around 5.30PM and there’s only sunlight left for another hour or so until it gets dark. And that means some sites close earlier than in the Summer: around 6PM.

And finally, the weather is colder and it doesn’t invite to spend time outside. No beach (the water temperature is around 15.4ºC / 60F), no outdoor restaurants (sure, some have stoves, but still it’s not the best plan).

The Barcelona December holiday you weren't counting on

Both are bank holidays, so it’s important to take that into account when planning to visit Barcelona in December. First of all, you need to expect more people travelling to Barcelona during these dates, because it’s a long weekend (sometimes very long, actually) and Spaniards often take a mini-vacation. 

The good thing is that often December 6 and 8 are one of those days when shops are allowed to open despite being a bank holiday. So shopping is a good plan! Just take into account that this might vary depending on the year, so it’s best to double check in the calendar of holidays when shops will be open in Barcelona  before planning your shopping day.

Is there anything else fun going on in December 6 and 8?

December 6th is a political celebration that celebrates the approval of the Spanish Constitution of 1978, 3 years after the death of the general Franco and the end of the Dictatorship. The Spanish Government and the Army will be holding commemorative events. Madrid is a better place to get the feel of it, since in Barcelona there’s not much going on.

December 8th is a Catholic festivity, one of the holy days of obligation. There’s not much going on in the streets, but the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception of the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia will be open for worshippers to bring flowers and candles, and there will be a special mass in her honor. If you are curious about it, it’s the first chapel to the right of the main entrance.

How is the weather in December in Barcelona?

Average weather data.

At night the temperature lowers to 9ºC / 48F in December and January (46.5F in February). I know, if you live in a snowy area, that probably doesn’t sound that cold. But snow is rare in Barcelona. And when it snows it’s usually just a few flakes. There is only two big snowstorms fallen in December in the recent history of Barcelona: 1844 and 1962. 

And it doesn’t rain much either: only 3 days  in average… which according to the statistics is the same it rains in June! It is mostly cloudy , though: 42% of the time. And it’s windy : December 15th is the windiest day in the year according to the records, with the wind blowing at a speed of 14km/h (8.70 mph).  I’m afraid Barcelona is not hot in December. Not even warm. It is cold, at least compared to other months. December is one of the three coldest months of the year in our city: The daytime  average temperature  of December, January and February is 15ºC / 59F. 

What to pack for Barcelona in December

Locals wear a warm jacket or coat anytime they are outdoors in December. Scarf and gloves can be useful specially in the early morning and until 10AM more or less: after 10 the sun is high and warm enough to not need them unless it’s specially windy.

Sweaters are the norm for tops, and jeans and long pants for bottoms. As for footwear, ladies favor boots and ankle booties, and men go for Chelsea boots and waterproof sneakers.

If you plan to visit Barcelona for Christmas or New Year’s Eve, remember to bring something classy or party-like, depending on what your plans are. You’ll rarely be required a tie or need a tuxedo in Barcelona, though. Barcelona is a stylish city but not extremely formal.

Food to try in Barcelona in December

It's still mushroom season.

Learn which are the most popular types of mushrooms here and the best types of mushroom tapas you can try and where.

The Calçots season is finally here!

Calçots are a sort of green onion that is made to grow covered in earth so it grows long, tender and white. We grill them in large patches (a portion is between 12 and 20 of them), peel off the burnt skin and dip them in a special nutty sauce . Here are detailed instructions on how to eat calçots .

The calçot season starts in December and ends late March, and with it come the gatherings of friends and relatives called “calçotades”: barbecue parties where we eat calçots, grilled meats and crema catalana for desert.

If you are a local and aren’t invited to one of them during the season… that means you probably have no social life at all! But you can just head to a calçotada restaurant and not miss them anyway!

Hot chocolate and churros

Churros and melindros (a long sponge cake) are the traditional thing to dip. And for an extra dose of richness, order a “swiss” and it’ll come topped with whipped cream. This is something we do either for breakfast or as a snack between lunch and dinner. Here is where to find the best hot chocolate and churros in Barcelona .

Christmas treats

Christmas is the season for those with a sweet tooth. The most popular treat is the famous “turron”, a nougat bar made with almond, sugar and optional toppings. There’s many turron varieties , by while the rest of the year you can only find them in specialty turron shops , in December they are readily available in any supermarket.

But there’s more than turron to the Christmas dessert platter! There’s marzipans of all kinds, there’s polvoron cakes, there’s rolled waffle “neulas”… Learn about all these Christmas treats here .

Don't miss the local Christmas traditions

Christmas lights.

This last years the City Council has wanted to make them friendly for anyone despite their religion, so the decorations don’t revolve much about anything Christian. And things about shopping are also seen as excessively “capitalist”. 

There’s a lot of geometry and stars, and the designers try to be creative – although sometimes they are a bit too modern… In any case, the best itinerary to see the Christmas lights is to start from Plaça Lesseps and walk down Gran de Gracia, then connect to Passeig de Gracia. Keep walking down until Gran Via de les Corts Catalanes, and there turn right for just one block to Rambla de Catalunya. 

From there continue down towards Plaça de Catalunya, then La Rambla all the way down to Portaferrissa (third street to the left. Take Portaferrissa to the end, then turn left and walk back up Portal de l’Àngel all the way back to Plaça Catalunya.

Christmas markets

The most traditional is the one celebrated in front of the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia. It is called “Fira de Santa Llúcia”, because it traditionally started on Saint Lucy’s day, December 13. However nowadays it starts earlier. 

The other one is located in front of the Passion Façade of the Sagrada Familia Church, occupying most of the park in front of it. Both feature stalls selling nativity figurines, Christmas trees and other greenery and Christmas ornaments.

There’s also a toy market along Gran Via, and a crafts market in Port Vell. And if you are all up for a day trip, in Espinelves there’s a famous fir tree market, in Vilafranca del Penedes they celebrate their rooster festival, and in Olot there’s a famous nativity market.

During Christmas there’s a nativity set up in every house of Barcelona. But you can see some around the city too! The Cathedral of Saint Eulalia has a large-size nativity in the cloister, complete with a river, chicken and roosters. The Palau del Lloctinent has a small nativity displayed in their courtyard, too.

The Barcelona City Council always presents a huge installation representing a nativity… most of the time so modern and conceptual that locals have made it almost a tradition to head to Plaça Sant Jaume to see it with their own eyes and complain. And for traditional ones, the Church of Bethlehem in La Rambla has a whole exhibit of nativity dioramas. 

Two Christmas traditions that have to do with poop

It represents a Catalan farmer in its traditional dress, crouching and… pooping. It’s become so popular that now you can also find caganer figurines with the faces of politicians, sportsmen and rock stars from all over the world. Those are for collectors or decoration, not for the nativity, though.

The Tió (pooping log) is who brings presents to our kids. A log that the family feeds fruit and leftovers over December – the more the better because you want it to poop lots of presents for you! On Christmas Day, the kids hit it with a stick singing a song that makes the presents appear under the blanket that covers the log. Apparently, it poops them!

Christmas theater plays

Another family tradition is to head to some neighborhood theater to watch “Els Pastorets”, a theater play about the birth of Jesus. There’s local companies that have been playing it for years. Some of my favorite are the Teatre de Sarria and the Centre Moral de Gracia. But there’s many more! Just beware it’s in Catalan – but if can be an interesting thing to do if you are a foreign-cultures freak.

Also, every year the dance and theater company Som-hi Dansa plays the Nut-Cracker in a child-friendly version (in Catalan). And this 2021-2022 Christmas season the Liceu Opera house is also programming a Nut-Cracker ballet.

Handel Messiah

Every December there’s some opportunity to hear Handel’s Messiah in Barcelona. Some years it’s been in Palau de la Musica Catalan, some other it’s been in the Basilica de Santa Maria del Mar, and in 2021 it’s the turn of the  Auditori of Barcelona , the largest concert hall in town. It’s a one-day show only, so make sure to get your tickets in advance.

Christmas Eve "rooster" mass and the Song of the Sybil

because the tradition says a rooster was the first animal to see Baby Jesus born, and he crowed to announce it. 

The Song of the Sybil is an old tradition of medieval roots, a song that announces the end of the world with the coming of Jesus. It was sang right before Christmas mass all over Europe until the Council of Trento banned it for being of “pagan origin”.

But it continued to be performed in Mallorca and the small town of Alguer in Sardinia, and nowadays it’s considered Human Heritage by UNESCO. And in Barcelona you can also hear it in the Cathedral of Saint Eulalia and the Basilica of Santa Maria del Mar.

Christmas Eve and Christmas Day

And the menu is quite different: we eat escudella i carn d’olla , a very rich soup served in two parts. The starter is the broth with a local curled pasta named “galets”. The main course is platters of the beans, veggies and meats that were used to make the broth.

So as a visitor you must take into account that you will need reservations in advance for Christmas eve dinner, Christmas day lunch and… Christmas day dinner too, because some restaurants will be closed and you don’t want to have to end wandering hungry in the streets in the search of a place to eat…

You also need to know that many sites in Barcelona close earlier than usual on December 24, to let their employees get ready for dinner, and around 2PM on December 25 and they don’t reopen again that day (some don’t even open at all). Shops stay open as usual on December 24, but they are closed on December 25. Here are some fail-proof ideas for what to do on Christmas Day in Barcelona .

Boxing Day - December 26

Catalan families meet again, this time to eat the escudella i carn d’olla left overs… transformed into creamy cannelloni! Or at least that’s the explanation for why cannelloni became the typical dish to eat that day.

But I need to say that nowadays no one wants to spend the whole morning cooking cannelloni before the guests arrive. Most families order them from local eateries, buy them from supermarkets, or if they do make them themselves, they are done well in advance and frozen.

April 1st in December?

December 28 is the “Sants Innocents” day, Holy Innocents Day. For the Christians, it commemorates the day King Herod killed innocent babies hoping one of them would be the Baby Jesus.

But Spaniards celebrate it like you’d do for April’s Fool. People plays silly tricks to each other, the media release funny fake news that are hard to believe but make you doubt for a second, and kids try to stick paper dolls in people’s backs.

Planning to spend New Year's Eve in Barcelona?

Tips to celebrate new year's eve.

And most hotels and night clubs organize parties after the countdown . Speaking of countdown, for Spaniards it’s more of a “countup”. We count the bell tolls from one to twelve, and with each toll we… eat a grape! It’s a sure way to choke if you aren’t trained to chew fast. You are warned.

Barcelona has been organizing mass countdowns in Plaça Espanya for several years now. But it’s mostly tourists and college kids attending: most local families prefer to watch it on TV and celebrate at home unless they are going out to some restaurant.

Also, take into account that on December 31st many sites close earlier than usual, and on January 1st some don’t open and some close around lunchtime, just like for Christmas Day. More New Year tips here .

"Noses" traditions

Catalan kids are told that day to look out for the “Home dels Nassos” (Man of the Noses) when they are out on the streets: but of course, he only has one nose so it could be anyone! In Barcelona there’s a traditional parade around the Old Town, led by a big-headed festival figure with a suspicious large nose.

Every year on December 31 the Barcelona City Council organizes a 10km (6 miles) race named the Cursa dels Nassos (Noses race), after the man of the noses.

Ideas for sport lovers and active travelers

Fc barcelona december matches.

The Spanish league is on in December until the last weekend before Christmas, then they take a break until January. And since the teams play one week at home and one week away, that means you have at least one chance of attending an FC Barcelona match !

There could even be some friendly match or a match of the European Champions League on. And if they don’t match your travel dates, you can always at least visit the Camp Nou Stadium . Or maybe check if the other soccer team of the city, the RCD Español is playing at home. Or if they are playing away during your trip, you can at least watch a match from a sports bar .

Ice skating

But every Christmas there’s some temporary skating rink set up, often at some shopping mall. This information isn’t available at the time I’m writing this post, but if you don’t want to miss the fun, you can Google it as your trip approaches to get up-to-date information.

Yes, I did say before it doesn’t snow that often in Barcelona. But the Pyrenees are just a couple of hours away from the city, and in December the skii season starts officially. There’s alpine skiing as well as Nordic skiing options, but also snowboarding and other snow-related sports available.

You might want to check out my post on skiing in Barcelona . There’s destinations close enough for a single day trip, but for some other further away such as the Vall d’Aran or Andorra it’s best to plan staying overnight.

Just one important thing to take into account if Andorra is under your radar: there are some very busy dates such as the long weekend of December 6 and 8, as well as Friday evenings and December 22 in the afternoon (the day kids finish school) were there’s a lot of traffic trying to enter the country. Since it’s only one 2-lane road, the traffic jams at the border can get you stuck for an hour or more.

More things to do in Barcelona December

Things to do with kids.

The Barcelona kids await December eagerly to attend the Ciutat dels Somnis . It’s a children fair featuring all kind of workshops, sports, games and other activities for children. The 2020 edition was cancelled because of Covid, but the details for the 2021 edition will be released soon. 

Another thing young kids love to do in December in Barcelona is to hop on a Christmas little train. Many districts have little train itineraries along their main shopping street. The tickets are sold in local shops and they are quite cheap.

You get a ride on a train decorated with Christmas lights, animated with loud Spanish and Catalan carols, and if it’s already dark, you get the bonus of admiring the Christmas lights from the train as well.

My mom always takes my child to the one in Sarrià, and we also take her to the one of Gracia. But there are more in other districts, such as in Sagrada Familia. If you are curious, google “trenet de Nadal + the name of the district”. That should pull the most up-to-date information – but you might need to use Google Translate or something similar to read it because most district websites don’t have an English version.

Relax at a Spa

This time of the year I favor those with a water circuit with pools, water jets and waterfalls. Or spas with sauna or hammam, because the steam and essential oils used there help against colds. If you are like me, you’ll want to check my posts on the best hotels with spa in Barcelona and the Barcelona spas that are not located inside hotels.

Other Barcelona December events

Do you need more things to do in Barcelona in December? There’s many temporary exhibits to check out. And here are our favorite festivals:

• MID-OCTOBER THROUGH MID-DECEMBER.  Voll Damm Jazz Festival . This world class jazz festival featuring Spanish and International artists goes on most of the Autumn months and finishes before Christmas.
• MID-NOVEMBER TO EARLY DECEMBER.  L’Alternativa Film Festival . A Barcelona Independent Film Festival will Spanish films as well as international feature and short films.
• MID-NOVEMBER TO MID-DECEMBER. Drap-Art Festival is the international fair of sustainable art that has been celebrated for over 25 years already. You can see exhibits of urban and contemporary art spread around the Barcelona Gothic Quarter.
• SECOND WEEK OF DECEMBER. Salon del Manga . For Japanese manga and anime comic fans. Often visitors attend dressed up with their best cosplays.

Best day trips from Barcelona in December

I’ve already mentioned a few ideas for day winter day trips: going skiing for a day, attending a local Christmas market out of town… but what if you want to do some sightseeing? Are there some destinations that are better than other in December? 

Sure! I don’t recommend the Monastery of Montserrat in the winter because it’s cold, damp and foggy, and the monastery is not specially decorated for Christmas. I don’t recommend heading to the Costa Brava because most things will be closed, and the weather won’t be nice. Here is what I recommend instead:

Besides, being a city rather than a small village, it’s lively with locals all year around and shops and restaurants are open for them. Plus for some reason tourists don’t really consider Tarragona much as an option for a day trip, so it’s never crowded.

There’s suburban and high speed trains connecting with Barcelona. Or you can take our private Day trip to Tarragona from Barcelona . We also love to combine Tarragona with lunch in Sitges on the same day – but trying to organize it on your own by train would be too difficult.

Restaurants and shops are open for locals all year around, and while in the Summer you might cross groups from large tourist buses, in the winter it’s unlikely.

You can also take a suburban or a high speed train to get there, or book our Barcelona to Girona day trip . We also love to combine it with other destinations: the Dali Museum or the medieval town of Besalu are our winter favorites, but again, they are difficult to pair up with Girona on the same day unless you have a car.

Dali Museum in Figueres

If you are an art lover, this is a great destination for a day trip from Barcelona in December… with the bonus that it’s indoors. Despite being smaller than Tarragona and Girona, Figueres stays quite busy all year around, not with tourists but with locals. So while there might be some souvenir shop or touristy café closed, you’ll still find most things open.

There’s a high speed train connecting it with Barcelona, as well as a suburban train (much cheaper but veeeeeery slow). But inside the museum the information about the artworks is minimal, so if you really want to understand the secrets of Dali’s surrealist mind, you should really consider our private Dali tour from Barcelona .

Medieval Market of Vic

Vis is a less popular destination for foreigners, but a great choice if you like going off the beaten path to see the “real Catalonia”. It is reachable by suburban train only – no high speed. 

Vic is a small city famous for their meat sausages and the large portico plaza where they celebrate a market on Tuesdays and Saturdays. There’s also a quaint medieval district and a remarkable Bishopric Art Museum.

And during the long weekend of December 6 and 8 they celebrate a popular Medieval Market: a festival with crafts stalls, handmade food, medieval theater plays, dressed-up characters, falconry shows, activities for kids and more.

Now you are ready to travel to Barcelona in December and have the best time ever!

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35 Best Things to Do in Barcelona in Winter (2024)

Winter in Barcelona might not be the first season that comes to mind for a visit, but it holds its own special charm. The city takes on a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere as the hustle of tourist season dies down.

I live in Spain and have spent many winters in Barcelona, each time appreciating the city’s more peaceful side and the unique way it celebrates the colder months.

So, what’s special about visiting Barcelona in winter? Well, as you’ll see, from the festive holiday decorations to the comfortably cool weather that’s perfect for exploring, winter in Barcelona has a lot to love.

Planning a trip to Barcelona last minute?

If you’re booking your  trip to Barcelona last minute, I’ve got you covered. Below are some of the top tours, hotels, and more!

⭐  Most popular sights in Barcelona

• Sagrada Familia – tickets often sell out weeks in advance so get your entry ticket here (or entry tickets AND a guided tour here)
• Park Güell – grab your skip-the-line entry
• Casa Batlló – click here for tickets and audio guide

🌍 Top tours in Barcelona

• Montserrat Tour, Monastery and Winery (great day trip!)
• Flamenco Show at Tablao Flamenco Cordobes (incredible night out)
• Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine, and History (all the highlights at once)

🛏️ Top hotels in Barcelona

• Ohla Barcelona (5-star luxury with an amazing rooftop pool)
• Seventy Barcelona (boutique hotel with beautiful décor)
• Àmfores Boutique Guest House (great budget option with superb location)

🚌 Want free public transport while you’re in Barcelona? Check out the Hola Barcelona travel card !

Table of Contents

What to do in Barcelona in winter

1. christmas markets (november-december).

If you’ve ever been curious about Barcelona during the chilly season, let me tell you – it’s got a vibe all its own. First on the list? The Christmas markets. 

I’m not talking about the cliched markets you’ve probably seen everywhere – these are authentically Catalan. 

The Fira de Santa Llúcia, right outside the cathedral, is the oldest and most famous one, but you also can’t do Christmas in Barcelona without visiting the market outside of the Sagrada Familia, which is pretty incredible too. 

The local crafts, decorations, and festive food will give you the holiday feels in no time. Although keep an eye out for the, uh, quirky caga tio and caganer – two distinctly Catalan Christmas “decorations” (for lack of a better word) that make pretty much the best vacation souvenirs ever.

And speaking of the Sagrada Familia…

2. Sagrada Familia

Now, I get it. Everyone and their dog have heard of the Sagrada Familia . But have you seen it with a winter backdrop? It’s a whole new level of awesome. 

The chilly air somehow makes the intricate details of the architecture pop even more. And here’s something to keep in mind – winter often means fewer tourists, so it could very well be the best time for you to visit Barcelona if you want to skip the crowds.

That means that you get a more serene, up-close experience. Just remember to wear something warm because it’s surprisingly cold inside. 

But hey, that’s what churros and hot chocolate afterwards are for, right?

PRO TIP: The Sagrada Familia is easily the most visited tourist site in Barcelona and tickets frequently sell out weeks ahead of time.

To make sure you don’t miss out, you need to book your tickets for the Sagrada Familia well in advance of your visit. As once they’re gone, they’re gone – and seeing inside is a definite must while you’re here.

3. Plaça de Catalunya skating rink (November-December)

When you think of Barcelona, you might not instantly think ‘ice skating’, but Plaça de Catalunya proves everyone wrong every winter. They set up a massive skating rink right in the heart of the city! 

You can glide around, surrounded by iconic buildings and the buzz of the city. And even if you’re like me, with two left feet on ice, it’s still super fun to people-watch. 

Grab a warm drink from a nearby café and soak in the festive energy. The cool air, sparkling lights, and infectious laughter make it the perfect winter evening out.

4. Park Güell

If you’re in Barcelona during winter, then Park Güell is your spot. Think less crowds, crisp air – and the mosaic work? Well, it seems even more vibrant against the gray skies. 

Gaudí really knew how to create magic and you’ll see the proof of that right here. The park is like a colorful playground that’s just waiting to be explored. 

And the view? Overlooking the city with the mountains in the backdrop, it’s pure winter magic. 

Get there early in the morning, take a brisk walk, and let the creative vibes of the place spark something in you.

FYI: If you’re looking to visit both the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell and you’re short on time, you can get skip-the-line entry and a tour of both sights in one day right here .

5. Llum BCN (Barcelona Festival of Lights) (February)

Hold onto your beanies because Llum BCN is about to light up your world – literally! Every February, Barcelona transforms into a canvas of lights, installations, and art. 

The city districts compete (in a friendly way, of course!) to create the most mesmerizing light displays. Think of it like an outdoor museum, where streets, squares, and buildings come alive with creativity. 

And the chilly February night? It just adds to the charm. Make sure to charge your phone, ‘cause trust me, you’ll want to snap some memories!

6. Casa Batlló

The architecture, the designs… Casa Batlló is like walking into a dream. In winter, the interior feels cozy and intimate, especially with fewer tourists around. 

If walls could talk, each room would have a tale of its own. And the cherry on top? The rooftop. 

With its chimneys resembling knights, and the city’s winter lights shimmering below, you’ll feel on top of the world. If you’re looking to add a sprinkle of magic to your winter trip, this is it.

7. Casa Milá

Time to dive into yet another masterpiece by the one and only Gaudí – Casa Milá . Locals often call it ‘La Pedrera’ because of its wavy, rocky facade. 

You might be thinking, “Another Gaudí spot?” But seriously, each one has its own unique twist. 

With its undulating terraces and whimsical chimneys, Casa Milá in winter is pure magic. The building seems to dance under the soft glow of winter light. 

Do yourself a favor, by the way, and visit in the evening. The illumination gives it a warmth that’s just the kind of cozy you need on a chilly winter night.

8. Shopping during the winter sales (January-February)

Who’s up for some retail therapy? If you’re nodding, then you’re in for a ride! 

January and February in Barcelona mean one thing for shoppers: sales! The city bursts into a shopping frenzy. 

From big-name brands on Passeig de Gràcia to independent boutiques in El Born, everyone slashes prices. 

And the cooler weather? Just perfect for trying on those leather jackets or knee-high boots you’ve been eyeing. 

Just a heads-up: it can get a bit crowded, so arm yourself with some patience, hot coffee, and a keen eye for bargains.

What’s your perfect destination for your dream trip to Spain?

Want to discover a city or live your island dreams?

Embrace the food scene or step through the pages of history?

Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!

9. Paella cooking class

If you’re anything like me, travel isn’t complete without diving deep into the local food scene. And in Barcelona, paella rules the roost. 

But here’s an idea: instead of just eating it, why not learn to whip it up yourself? Winter is the best time to get into a cozy kitchen and get your hands a bit messy. 

There are tons of cooking schools around the city offering hands-on paella classes. You get to learn the tricks of the trade, make some new pals, and at the end, dig into your very own creation. 

A win-win, right? So roll up those sleeves and get cooking – especially if you’ve stumbled a less than ideal weather day, as this is one of the ideal things to do on a rainy day in Barcelona !

One of my top recommendations for things to do in Barcelona is this paella cooking experience .

You’ll start by being shown around La Boqueria market with an expert chef , who’ll explain how to pick out the best ingredients.

From there, you’ll be taken to the main event – a workshop on how to make your very own paella, tapas and sangria – before getting to eat and drink all your hard work. It’s a great way to experience the culinary side of Barcelona!

10. Parade of the Three Magical Kings (January 6th)

If you’re in town around January 6th, you’re in for something truly special. It’s not just another parade; it’s the Parade of the Three Magical Kings! 

This is Spain’s grand finale to the festive season, and boy, does Barcelona know how to celebrate it. Picture this: vibrant floats, dancers, and musicians taking over the streets, with the Three Kings showering sweets onto the crowd. 

Kids are especially in awe, but honestly, aren’t we all just big kids at heart? So grab a scarf, snuggle up, and get ready for a parade that’ll warm your winter spirits.

11. Tapas and wine walking tour

Let’s talk food (again). But this time, it’s bite-sized! 

If there’s a more iconic duo than tapas and wine, I’ve yet to find it. So why not dive into the heart of Barcelona’s culinary scene with this tapas and wine walking tour . 

Saunter through historic alleyways, popping into centuries-old bars and contemporary tapas joints alike. Each stop is a flavor bomb waiting to explode. 

From olives to patatas bravas, paired with the perfect wine – your taste buds are in for a party. 

And the best part? Making friends along the way. Because nothing bonds people quite like good food and stories shared over a glass of vino.

12. Els Llums de Sant Pau (The Lights of Sant Pau)

If you plan to be in Barcelona during December, you can’t miss  Els llums de Sant Pau  (The Lights of Sant Pau). It’s an incredible display of lights, projection and innovative art work displayed at the biggest and one of the most spectacular examples of Art Nouveau architecture in the world: the  Sant Pau Recinte Modernista .

The front façade of the main building has an amazing light show projected on to the front of it, that plays a couple of times each evening during the holiday season – so it’s free to see!

And visiting Els Llums de Sant Pau in November is perfect because the light show is still relatively new for the season, which means fewer crowds and a more up close experience.

But the inside takes things to another level, as Sant Pau is transformed into a sparkling fairy tale setting, offering a truly unique experience. With about 1.5 km (almost one mile) of lights, projections and glowing art work, I mean it when I say you’ll truly be amazed by the spectacle.

You can find out more here , including information on getting tickets to this. Alternatively, if you’re coming earlier in the month – and especially if you’re interested in Art Nouveau – then the Sant Pau Recinte Modernista is definitely still worth a visit and you can grab your tickets to the Hospital of Sant Pau here .

13. Flamenco show

Want to get those feet tapping and hands clapping? Barcelona might be in Catalonia and not Andalusia, but the city sure knows how to put on a passionate flamenco show.

Head into an evening of powerful music, dynamic dance moves, and raw emotion that tells a story with every beat. It’s not just a performance; it’s an experience.

Choose a traditional tablao (a place where they perform flamenco), grab a front-row seat, and let the rhythm take over. I always recommend this flamenco show as not only is it held in an incredibly historic tablao , but you’ll also get dinner after the amazing show!

By the end of it, you’ll not only feel the fire of flamenco in your heart but might just be tempted to join a dance class yourself!

14. Visiting the Pyrenees (Three Countries in One Day)

Visiting the Pyrenees at this time of the year is an excellent idea as the region transforms into a stunning winter wonderland. With its snow-covered landscapes, charming villages, and festive vibes, it’s the perfect time to explore this part of the world.

For a whirlwind adventure, consider this One-Day Tour to Spain, France, and Andorra where you’ll be taken to all three countries in one day. Highlights include medieval Bagà in Spain, a French village for lunch, followed by stunning mountain vistas in Cadi-Moixero National Park and relaxation in Ax-Les-Thermes’ healing waters.

(The option of tax-free shopping in Andorra isn’t bad either!)

Alternatively, this Guided Day Trip to Andorra and France offers a great blend of nature, culture, and history all in one. You’ll relish traditional French cuisine and hot springs in Ax-les-Thermes, marvel at breathtaking views from Pas de la Casa, and explore Andorran landmarks like Casa de la Vall and Sant Esteve Church.

It’s a perfect choice for those who appreciate a mix of guided activities and free exploration, for a day full of diverse experiences.

15. Barcelona Cathedral

Amid the buzz of the Gothic Quarter, there’s a place that stands tall and timeless: the Barcelona Cathedral . This isn’t just another church; it’s a piece of history with stories etched into its stones. 

Step inside, and you’re immediately surrounded by intricate stained glass windows and towering arches. 

But wait, there’s more. Head to the rooftop for a panoramic view of the city draped in winter hues. 

From up there, the narrow streets, distant hills, and nearby squares come alive in a mosaic of life. It’s a quiet spot to reflect and appreciate the blend of art, history, and faith that Barcelona offers.

If you’re looking for a great tour that will show you the  highlights of Barcelona’s incredible 2,000+ year history , I definitely recommend this  Old Town and Gothic Quarter Walking Tour .

You’ll be taken to the best parts of the oldest, most interesting parts of the city, while hearing stories about this time and the centuries that have followed. In particular, for first-timers, it’s a great way to see all the main spots at once.

16. Make your own cava workshop

If there’s one bubbly that gives champagne a run for its money, it’s cava! This sparkling wine is Catalonia’s pride, and what better way to appreciate it than with this workshop where you can make your own bottle of cava ? 

Dive into the fizzy world with workshops that take you on a journey from grape to glass. You’ll learn about the traditional method, play with blends, and even cork your very own bottle. 

And the best bit? Sipping on your creation, of course! With bubbles dancing on your tongue and the pride of crafting your own drink, you’ll have a memory (and a bottle) to cherish long after your Barcelona escapade. Cheers!

17. Montserrat

Just a short trip from Barcelona, a day trip to Montserrat is that rugged slice of heaven you’ve been searching for. Towering limestone cliffs, a historic monastery, and panoramic views that’ll make you forget all your worries – that’s Montserrat in a nutshell. 

The serenity here is palpable, especially in winter. Wander the mountain paths, soak in the spiritual vibes, and let’s not forget the legendary choir at the monastery. 

Their angelic voices echoing through the mountains? Pure magic. Although the wineries around here are also pretty magical – which is exactly why I recommend this day tour to Montserrat with a winery , to let you add on a wine tasting and lunch at a local boutique winery after you’re done with the mountain.

18. Show at the Palau de la Música Catalana

Okay, music lovers, this one’s for you! The Palau de la Música Catalana isn’t just any concert hall; it’s a masterpiece where architecture and acoustics unite. 

Dripping in modernist charm with its colorful mosaics and grand chandeliers, it’s a sight to behold. But beyond its beauty, the magic truly unfolds when the music begins. 

From classical to Catalan folk, every note feels alive in this space. Secure a ticket, let the melodies surround you, and feel the winter night warm up with the tunes echoing through this iconic hall.

19. Chestnuts

Now, let’s chat about a winter essential in Barcelona: chestnuts. They first appear during Barcelona’s fall months , but as the cold really sets in, street corners come alive with vendors roasting these little wonders over open flames. 

The scent? Irresistible. There’s something comforting about holding a warm paper cone filled with roasted chestnuts as you stroll through the city. 

They’re a bite of warmth, perfect for those chilly afternoons. So, next time you spot a cart sending up swirls of smoke, stop by and savor this simple yet oh-so-satisfying winter snack.

20. Calçots

Winter in Barcelona isn’t complete without diving into the tradition of calçotadas. 

What’s that, you ask? Imagine long green onions, grilled to perfection over flames, then wrapped in newspaper to steam a bit. 

The ritual is the fun part: peel off the charred outer layer, dip the tender insides into a rich romesco sauce, and devour! It’s messy, it’s communal, and it’s downright delicious.

Many restaurants offer this seasonal specialty, often served with meats grilled over the same flames. So, gather your crew, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this Catalan culinary tradition!

21. Picasso Museum

Alright art buffs, you’re in for a treat. The Picasso Museum isn’t just a bunch of walls with paintings. It’s a journey through the life and times of the legendary Pablo Picasso.

Wander through the halls, and you’ll see how his art evolved, from his early sketches to his iconic blue and rose periods. Located in the heart of the Born district, the museum itself feels like a maze of history. 

And trust me, there’s something spellbinding about seeing Picasso’s genius up close, especially when the winter chill drives everyone indoors for warmth and wonder.

Want to see several museums while you’re in Barcelona – without busting your travel budget?

The Barcelona Card gives you free admission to 25+ museums , including the Picasso Museum, the National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC), the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art (MACBA), the Museum of the History of Barcelona (MUHBA) and many more.

Valid for three to five days (so only pay for what you’ll use!) , you also get free public transportation . Check the full list of museums and grab your card here.

22. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

So those iconic double-deckers cruising around Barcelona? A total win in winter. Sure, it might seem a touch touristy, but the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus is your golden ticket to seeing the city’s highlights without tiring out those feet. 

Worried about the chilly breeze or a surprise drizzle? No stress! The top section can be shielded with a plastic sheet, ensuring you stay cozy while enjoying uninterrupted views.

Plug in those provided headphones, soak up the info, and hop off whenever a site beckons. It’s like getting the best seat in the house, or in this case, the city!

23. FC Barcelona Museum

For the football (or should I say soccer?) fans out there, this is sacred ground. Dive deep into the legacy of one of the world’s most renowned football clubs at the FC Barcelona Museum . 

Located at Camp Nou, this place is brimming with trophies, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits. Relive iconic moments, feel the goosebumps as you walk through the players’ tunnel, and even take a seat in the press box. 

For anyone who’s ever cheered for Barça (yes, it’s only the nickname for the team, not the city!) this experience is bound to give you the chills – and not from the cold!

24. MACBA (Museum of Contemporary Art of Barcelona)

If edgy, modern art is more your speed, you’ve got to slide into MACBA . This place is a haven for contemporary art enthusiasts. 

The sleek building, with its giant glass façade and skateboarding teens out front, is a hint of the radical stuff inside. Here, art breaks boundaries and challenges the norm.

From installations that make you ponder to quirky sculptures that might raise an eyebrow, MACBA is a refreshing change from the city’s historical vibes. 

And hey, post-art appreciation, the surrounding Raval neighborhood offers some great spots to sip on a warm drink.

25. Chocolate Museum

Who said museums can’t be sweet? Enter the Chocolate Museum , or as I like to call it, a slice of heaven on a cold winter day. 

Here, you’ll unravel the rich history of chocolate, from its Aztec roots to its European evolution. And the best part? The exhibits aren’t just to look at. They’re edible! 

From choco sculptures to tasting sessions, it’s a sensory delight. Make sure to grab a hot chocolate at the end – it’s thick, rich, and the perfect hand warmer as you head back out into the brisk Barcelona air.

Alright, time to let you in on a not-so-secret secret: Girona . This medieval city, just a quick train journey from Barcelona, feels like stepping back in time. 

Cobbled streets, colorful houses perched by the river, and the ancient city walls make it a picturesque escape. Winter sees fewer tourists, making it perfect for leisurely strolls and uninterrupted photo sessions. 

Don’t miss the Girona Cathedral – it’s got history etched into every stone. And if you’re a TV buff, you might recognize some spots from a certain dragon-themed show… (and you can even do a Game of Thrones walking tour when you’re here!)

27. La Molina for skiing

If you’re itching to carve some snow without straying too far from Barcelona, La Molina is where you need to be. This ski resort is a haven for winter sports enthusiasts.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or someone who still tumbles while trying to find their snow-legs, there’s a slope here for you. The views of the Pyrenees are, well, let’s say they’re photo-album-worthy. 

After a day of downhill fun, grab a cup of hot cocoa at the lodges and watch the world glide by. The mountain is calling, and you really should go!

28. Churros and Chocolate

Ah, churros! Those crispy, golden wonders dusted in sugar. 

When in Barcelona during the chilly months, dunking these beauties into a cup of thick, warm chocolate is pretty much a rite of passage. Wander around the Barri Gòtic or El Raval, and you’ll find cozy cafés with windows steaming up from the hot chocolate pots bubbling away. 

It’s pretty straightforward: dip, munch, and repeat. Not only does this combo warm your hands and belly, but it also gives your taste buds a little fiesta. 

If there’s one way to truly embrace the Barcelonian winter vibe, this is it!

29. Parade of the L’Home dels Nassos (December 31st)

New Year’s Eve in Barcelona isn’t just about fireworks and countdown parties. There’s also the curious Parade of the L’Home dels Nassos. 

Wondering what’s up with the funny name? Well, “L’Home dels Nassos” translates to “The Man with the Noses.” 

Legend has it, he’s a guy with as many noses as days left in the year – but since it’s December 31st, you’ll only see him sporting one! This quirky parade is full of festive cheer, music, and dancing. 

It’s a unique local tradition that you won’t find in your typical travel guide, and it adds a sprinkle of fun to the end-of-year celebrations.

30. Santa Eulàlia Festival (February 12th)

Got plans for February in Barcelona? Make sure to check out the Santa Eulàlia Festival on the 12th.

This festival is all about one of Barcelona’s patron saints and, let me tell you, the city really shows its spirit. There’s a bit of everything – parades, human towers, and some really cool traditional dances right in the Gothic Quarter.

Keep an eye out for the ‘gegants’ – these huge, colorful figures that are a big part of Catalan festivals.

Oh, and the best part? Lots of historic buildings and museums open up for free , so it’s a great chance to explore without spending a dime.

31. New Year’s Eve at Plaça Espanya (December 31st)

Listen up, party lovers! If you’re on the hunt for an iconic way to ring in the New Year in Barcelona, Plaça Espanya’s got you covered. 

The vibe here is electric, with the Magic Fountain serving as a brilliant backdrop. When the clock strikes twelve, brace yourself for an explosion of fireworks that light up the Montjuïc hill. 

The reflection of colors on the waters of the fountain combined with the crowd’s energy makes it unforgettable. Grab a twelve-pack of grapes (a local tradition!), and make a wish with each bell toll at midnight. 

32. Party at Plaça Catalunya (December 31st)

For those who prefer the city’s heartbeat, Plaça Catalunya on New Year’s Eve is another prime spot. This central square buzzes with life as both locals and visitors gather, ready for countdown festivities. 

Live bands get everyone in the groove, and as the night progresses, spontaneous dance circles pop up here and there. It’s like one giant open-air party! 

Don your party hats, blow your horns, and get ready to cheer your heart out with thousands of other lively souls.

33. New Year’s party at Poble Espanyol (December 31st)

Ready for a New Year’s bash with a touch of Spanish charm? Head to Poble Espanyol!

This architectural museum-turned-party-venue hosts one of Barcelona’s most sought-after New Year’s events. The charming alleys and squares within Poble Espanyol get transformed into a festive wonderland. 

Live music, DJ sets, and endless dancing – it’s a night of non-stop revelry. And hey, between your dance moves, take a moment to appreciate the beautiful replicas of Spain’s iconic buildings around you. 

This party isn’t just about celebrating the New Year; it’s about celebrating the rich tapestry of Spanish culture. Don’t forget to grab your tickets early; they sell out fast!

34. Run 10km in the Cursa dels Nassos (December 31st)

Okay, fellow fitness enthusiasts, this one’s especially for you. You know, there’s no better way to bid adieu to the year than getting your heartbeat racing in the Cursa dels Nassos .

It’s a 10km run that takes you through the heart of Barcelona. I’ve had the pleasure of joining this end-of-year run, and let me tell you, the vibe is electric. 

Everyone’s in high spirits, cheering each other on, with the beautiful cityscape as your backdrop. It’s a blend of fitness, fun, and festive energy. Highly recommend!

35. Barcelona Contemporary Culture Center (CCCB)

Culture lovers, Barcelona’s got another spot you just can’t miss – the CCCB ! Located right in the Raval neighborhood, this cultural center is a hub for all things contemporary.

Dive deep into exhibitions that make you think, films that provoke emotion, and performances that stay with you long after you’ve left. While the content always changes, the essence remains: showcasing the best of contemporary art and thought.

Whether you’re an art buff or just looking to absorb a bit of modern culture (perhaps while escaping the winter chill outside), CCCB promises a fresh perspective.

What is Barcelona like in the winter?

Barcelona in winter is a pleasant surprise. The city’s usual hustle slows down a notch, with less tourists around, giving it a cozy, relaxed feel. Iconic landmarks shimmer under softer, cooler sunlight, and there’s an underlying festive spirit that warms the heart. 

While you won’t find the streets blanketed in snow, there’s a different kind of magic in the air. The crispness of the weather combined with the warmth of winter festivals, lights, and the Mediterranean vibes gives Barcelona a unique winter appeal. 

And let’s not forget, the winter skies in the Catalan capital often bless us with clear, azure days!

Is it cold in Barcelona in winter?

By general European standards, no, Barcelona isn’t extremely cold in winter. We’re talking about average temperatures hovering around 8°C to 15°C (46°F to 59°F). It’s chilly enough to justify a warm scarf and a cozy jacket but not the sort of bone-chilling freeze you’d find further north. 

Keep in mind though, the sea breeze can sometimes add an extra nip in the air, so layering up is a smart move. 

Oh, and occasionally, just occasionally, you might get a drizzly day or two, so pack a light raincoat or umbrella just in case!

Is it colder in Madrid or Barcelona?

Madrid generally wins the “chillier winter” title compared to Barcelona. Because Madrid sits at a higher altitude and is inland, its winters tend to be cooler and drier. While Barcelona enjoys the moderation of the Mediterranean Sea, keeping its temperatures relatively milder. 

So, if you’re picking between the two and want the warmer option, Barcelona might be your bet. 

But hey, both cities have their unique winter charms; it all depends on what you’re in the mood for!

How cold is Barcelona at Christmas?

Around Christmas, Barcelona is moderately cool with temperatures often ranging between 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F). While you won’t be building any snowmen, the air is crisp and sometimes even requires a snug beanie or gloves. 

The city lights up with festive decorations and markets, creating a beautiful contrast with the cooler weather. 

As you wander around, you’ll find that the streets have a merry vibe, making it an ideal time for some holiday sightseeing or indulging in some traditional Spanish Christmas treats. 

Just remember, nights can feel a tad cooler, so packing a warmer jacket is a good idea!

Is Barcelona good to go in winter?

Absolutely! Winter in Barcelona offers a refreshing contrast to its busy summer months. The city feels more relaxed, the lines at popular attractions are shorter, and there’s a sense of intimacy as you wander its historic streets. While you might miss out on beach days, there’s plenty to compensate. 

The local festivities, charming Christmas markets, and a generally cozier ambiance make winter a fantastic time to explore Barcelona. 

Plus, the milder temperatures mean you can spend your days sightseeing without breaking a sweat or needing countless water breaks.

Is Barcelona expensive in winter?

Compared to the peak tourist season, winter sees a slight drop in prices in Barcelona. Accommodation can be more affordable, and some attractions might offer off-season discounts. That being said, Barcelona is still one of Europe’s premier destinations, so while you might find some deals, it’s not exactly a budget city. 

Dining out, especially at tourist-centric spots, might still pinch your pocket, but with fewer tourists around, it’s easier to discover local and more affordable eateries. 

Pro tip: Keep an eye out for winter deals or specials in restaurants and shops, as they sometimes offer seasonal discounts to attract visitors.

How should I dress for Barcelona in the winter?

For Barcelona’s winter, think layers. Typically, a warm sweater, a medium-weight jacket, and a scarf will do the trick. If you’re heading out in the evening, add a beanie and gloves to your ensemble. While Barcelona’s winters are milder than many other European cities, the occasional sea breeze or chilly wind might catch you off guard. 

It’s always a good idea to pack a mix of clothing: some cozy sweaters, a few lighter tops, and definitely a comfortable pair of walking shoes. Also, an umbrella or light raincoat can be handy, as the city does see some sporadic rain showers during the winter months. 

Remember, while it’s essential to stay warm, you’re still in one of the fashion capitals of the world, so feel free to show off your winter style!

Do you need a winter jacket in Barcelona?

A winter jacket in Barcelona isn’t mandatory, but a medium-weight jacket can be beneficial. The temperatures can dip, especially during evenings, but you rarely experience the biting cold of more northern European cities. A versatile, layered approach is typically the best way to go. 

Dive deeper, and you’ll find that many locals prefer layering up with sweaters and scarves rather than opting for a heavy-duty winter coat. The key is adaptability: having a jacket you can easily slip on and off as the day warms up or cools down. 

Also, given Barcelona’s coastal location, it’s more about guarding against the dampness and chilly winds than snow or frost.

What to do in Barcelona when it’s cold?

When it’s cold in Barcelona, it’s the perfect excuse to dive into the city’s indoor wonders, savor its heartwarming cuisine, and immerse yourself in local traditions. Explore world-class museums, indulge in hot churros and chocolate, or simply lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of the Gothic Quarter. 

Barcelona doesn’t hibernate in the cold; it just moves to a different, cozier beat. 

And as I wrap up my Barcelona winter guide, remember, every season in this city has its own charm, and winter is no exception. With fewer tourists, you get a more authentic experience, watching the city go about its day-to-day, with the added sparkle of winter festivities. 

So pull out that cozy scarf, lace up your boots, and get ready to see Barcelona in a whole new light. Warm cafes, vibrant winter markets, and the gentle hum of life around every corner make Barcelona a winter wonder in its own right. 

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always something new to discover in this ever-evolving city. 

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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10 Best Things to Do in Barcelona This December

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There may not be snow or a crisp winter chill in the forecast, but Barcelona in December can be a magical experience.

Strings of twinkling lights bathe the narrow alleys of the Gothic Quarter in a festive glow as busy holiday shoppers scour the chic, independent boutiques in search of the perfect gifts. Heated outdoor terraces decked out for the season lure passersby in at every corner of the Eixample, and scents of fresh pine and roasted nuts waft from the lively Christmas markets wrapped around churches and monuments.

The weather in Barcelona in December is milder than in most of Europe, with bright and sunny terrace days, comfortable walking temperatures in the evening, and no need to put on your gloves. Rain is rare, and average temperatures hover around 14-17°C during the day and 5-9ºC at night.

Watch holiday movies under the stars, attend a festive concert in a fanciful Modernista palace, and sample some of the most decadent hot chocolate you will ever lay your lips on. From the wacky to the wonderful, here’s our festive guide to Barcelona in December.

Step into an Illuminated Modernista Wonderland

This year, Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau is once again home to Llums de Sant Pau , a Christmas event that will transform Lluís Domènech i Montaner’s Art Nouveau masterpiece into an Instagram-worthy fairytale illuminated with thousands of sparkling lights and colorful projections. Marvel at the site’s iconic facade decked out in interactive light art and stroll through the Christmas Gardens, where twinkling orange trees, bewitching laser shows, and reddish brick buildings brought to life with spectacular lighting effects set the scene for a magical evening out.

Browse Through Spain’s Largest Christmas Shop

Entering the fabulous Käthe Wohlfahrt store in Barcelona is like stepping into a typical Bavarian village at Christmastime, complete with lavishly decorated fir trees and replicas of Nuremberg’s storybook half-timbered houses.

Tucked away on a narrow alley in the Gothic Quarter, just off La Rambla, the German retailer’s first outlet in Spain is brimming with wooden pyramids, nutcracker soldiers, and hand-blown glass tree ornaments in all imaginable shapes and colors. All the items on display are handcrafted in Germany and prized for their quality. Aside from traditional designs, you will also find some original Barcelona-inspired products like the typical caganer, or the city’s ubiquitous black and yellow cab, both of which make for one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts for friends and family.

Get into the Festive Spirit at El Palace

Barcelona’s most Christmassy hotel goes all out for the holiday season with spectacular decorations, delicious seasonal dishes, live piano music, and a cornucopia of festive activities.

From the Nutcracker soldiers flanking its entrance to the classic red & gold garlands and Christmas trees adorning the grand lobby, El Palace is filled to the brim with yuletide touches – and this is only the beginning!

Every weekend throughout December, a wintery cable car-themed elevator takes both guests and non-guests to the hotel’s famed rooftop terrace, which hosts a pop-up Christmas market and a seasonal ski lodge serving Alpine classics like cheese fondue and raclette in cozy wooden surroundings. Also here, those lucky enough to have snapped up one of the precious few spots can enjoy Christmas movies under the stars, snuggled under a blanket in their own private cabin, hot chocolate in hand.

Soak Up the Sparkle

The most wonderful time of the year in Barcelona is made more so by the city’s artful holiday lights, with each neighborhood and major boulevard displaying a different design.

A walk down the elegant Passeig de Gràcia surrounds you with oversized, sparkling butterflies while the dark, narrow streets of Barri Gòtic are adorned with delicate strings of lights. Meanwhile, illuminated nativity figures hang from façades and balconies in Plaça Sant Jaume, El Born’s creative storefronts are dressed in their holiday best, and grand hotels across the city glitter with lighted wreaths, holiday floral displays, and oversized Christmas ornaments.

For a full experience, hop on the double-decker tourist bus for a lit-up route through the city’s most spectacular holiday light displays. Accompanied by festive songs and interesting stories related to the local Christmas traditions, the 1.5-hour Barcelona Christmas Tour covers emblematic sites like Plaça Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, Sagrada Família, the Arc de Triomf, Hospital de Sant Pau, and Via Laietana in Barri Gòtic.

Buy a Caganer at a Christmas Market

No trip to Barcelona in December would be complete without exploring the city’s vibrant holiday markets.

Held every year right in front of the impressive Barcelona Cathedral, Fira de Santa Llúcia is a beloved local tradition and a great place to shop for unique artisan gifts and holiday treats. Soak up the Christmas atmosphere as you stroll around festive wooden chalets selling fragrant fir trees and eucalyptus wreaths, handmade ornaments, and the traditional caganer. Whole stands are dedicated to this strange bare-bottomed, pooping figurine which is a regular fixture in nativity scenes across Catalunya. Dating back to the 18th century, Fira de Santa Llúcia is the oldest Christmas market in Spain and one of its most charming, but there are dozens dotted around the city.

Set right in the park in front of Gaudi’s basilica, the authentic Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia is brimming with fresh Christmas trees, traditional ornaments, and typical food products from the Pyrenees, while the more modern Fira de Nadal de Port Vell near the Columbus Monument stands out with its floating nativity scene, 65-meter-high fairground wheel, and lively food trucks.

See Casa Batlló in a Whole New Light

Gaudi’s Casa Batlló is already one of the most unique and spectacular buildings in Barcelona, but it’s particularly special during winter when its swirling, tile-covered facade is illuminated for the holidays. Starting November 17, 2023, an immersive light and music show will bring the house to life every evening. On top of that, a newly designed night tour called Una Noche de Invierno (A Winter Night) will transport winter visitors back in time through special scenography and miraculous projections.

Enjoy a Christmas Concert in Stunning Surroundings

December is Christmas concert season in Barcelona, and that only means one thing: the perfect excuse to put on your fanciest outfit and take in one of the many world-class performances held in the city’s striking venues.

L’Auditori, Gran Teatre del Liceu, El Palau de la Música Catalana, and Gaudi’s Palau Guell are all hosting seasonal music concerts and opera performances during this time of year. Among the most famous are the annual Christmas carols at Sagrada Familia, the traditional St. Stephen’s Choral Concert at the Palau, and the New Year Concert by the Barcelona Symphony Band held at L’Auditori. Nevertheless, make sure to check out their holiday programme to see what’s going on during your time in Barcelona and grab your tickets well in advance.

Warm Up with Lucious Hot Chocolate

Barcelona is the city that introduced hot chocolate to Europe, a culture that still lingers today in the beloved chocolatada (the social custom of drinking hot chocolate) and the abundance of xocolateries and ornate Modernista cafés lining its streets.

For the most authentic experience, head to Carrer Petritxol, also known as Chocolate Street, where some of the city’s most iconic historic granjas are located. These former dairies turned cafés specialize in suizo ( suís in Catalan) – luxuriously thick hot chocolate, often topped with a swirl of whipped cream and accompanied by churros or melindros (Catalan sponge fingers). This is particularly the case of Granja Dulcinea, which not only serves some of the best hot chocolate in town, made with a mixture of African and Spanish cocoa but retains its old-fashioned charm with ceramic tiles on the floor and old photographs of former patrons hanging on the walls.

If a sugary craving hits when you’re strolling down La Rambla, Pasteleria Escriba is a must-try. One of Barcelona’s prettiest and most famous pastry shops, they serve a mélange of cakes, baked goods, and artful chocolate creations alongside a divine chocolate a la taza topped with chili powder.

Feel like Kevin in Home Alone 2 at the Majestic

There may be no view of Central Park in sight or a giant pizza room service to satiate your midnight cravings, but Majestic Hotel & Spa has more than enough twinkling lights, bright red poinsettia garlands, and classic grandeur to make up for it.

With an enviable location on Barcelona’s most prestigious street, Passeig de Gràcia, the 1918 establishment is a destination in itself, as well as the perfect base for exploring all this vibrant city has to offer, from the high-end shopping and Gaudi’s iconic architectural marvels in the Eixample district to the enticing narrow lanes of Barri Gòtic to hip and happening Born.

Make yourself at home in one of their spacious, timelessly decorated rooms, complete with huge marble bathrooms and upscale toiletries; unwind with a luxurious massage at the Majestic SPA, and cap off the night with a cocktail in the piano bar. To boot, the hotel’s grand facade is lavishly decorated during the holidays, and its buffet breakfast – designed by Michelin-starred chef Nandu Jubany and named the best in Europe in 2018 – is overflowing with delicious local produce.

Tip: The Deluxe Passeig de Gracia Room gets you a prime seat to revel in the city’s holiday magic as sparkling holiday lights bedeck the elegant avenue below and Christmas shoppers crowd the broad, tree-lined sidewalks searching for gifts. You can even spot Casa Batlló glowing in changing colors from your balcony.

Combine It All into a Christmas Walking Tour

A walking tour might not sound like the most thrilling thing to do in Barcelona at Christmastime, but if you are a first-time visitor wanting to make the most of your time, this holiday-themed experience might be your best bet.

BCN: Christmas Walking Tour provides an insider’s guide to some of the city’s best holiday sights and happenings, including Christmas market visits and delicious festive food tastings. Starting on Passeig de Gràcia, you’ll have the opportunity to see both Casa Mila and Casa Batlló dressed up for the holidays before heading to admire the light displays in Plaça de Catalunya and along Portal de l’Angel, where you’ll be sampling traditional turrón in one of Barcelona’s most famous Christmas candy shops. The entire experience takes about 3.5 hours and culminates with chocolate & churros on Carrer Petritxol. Only available during the holiday season (Nov. 28, 2023 – Jan. 5, 2024) .

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Barcelona in December

Why visit barcelona in december.

Barcelona in December is a wonderful time to visit the city, as it is filled with holiday cheer and festive spirit. The mild Mediterranean climate makes it a pleasant destination for those looking to escape the cold winter weather in other parts of Europe. One of the highlights of Barcelona in December is the Christmas markets, which are set up all around the city. Visitors can enjoy browsing through stalls filled with local crafts, foods, and gifts while sipping on hot chocolate or mulled wine. The most famous market is the Fira de Santa Llucia, located in front of the Barcelona Cathedral, but there are many others to explore as well.

Another must-see attraction during the holiday season is the city's impressive light displays. The streets and buildings are adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations, creating a magical atmosphere for visitors to enjoy.

December is also a great time to indulge in some Catalan cuisine, as many restaurants offer special menus featuring traditional holiday dishes such as escudella i carn d'olla, a hearty stew made with meat and vegetables, and neules, a type of Catalan Christmas cookie. Finally, Barcelona in December offers a variety of cultural events, including concerts, theater performances, and art exhibitions. One of the most popular events is the New Year's Eve celebration, which includes fireworks displays and live music performances throughout the city.

Barcelona Weather in December

Barcelona's weather in December is typically mild compared to many other cities in Europe, with an average temperature of around 12°C (54°F). However, it can be quite rainy, with an average of 59mm of rainfall throughout the month, so visitors should be prepared for wet weather.

The days are relatively short in December, with daylight hours ranging from around 8 am to 6 pm, and the evenings can be chilly. It is advisable to bring layers of clothing to adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.

While Barcelona in December is not typically a beach destination, there are still plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as strolling through the city's many parks and gardens or visiting the Gothic Quarter's narrow streets. Despite the cooler weather, the festive holiday atmosphere and cultural events throughout the month make Barcelona a popular destination for travelers during December.

Things to Do in Barcelona in December

Barcelona in December is a delightfully festive destination, and one of the best things about the season is the abundance of holiday markets scattered throughout the city. From traditional Catalan cagatió logs to unique trinkets, these markets offer a wide range of holiday nick-nacks that make for perfect souvenirs and gifts. You can find some of the most vibrant markets next to iconic landmarks such as the Cathedral of Barcelona in Plaça Nova and the Sagrada Familia. For those looking for a local touch, the free market in Plaça de Catalunya is not to be missed!

Indulge in the ultimate winter relaxation experience by visiting an ancient Roman bath restored in the Gothic Quarters of Barcelona. At Aire de Barcelona, you can immerse yourself in a luxurious hot bath at the perfect temperature, making you feel like royalty. Choose from a variety of unique options, including a rejuvenating red wine bath or a scented room, and let your worries melt away in the soothing warm waters. So take a break from the chilly weather and treat yourself to a heavenly thermal bath.

The Gothic Quarter is a must-visit destination in Barcelona any time of year, but it takes on a special charm during the holiday season. The narrow, winding streets are decorated with lights and Christmas decorations, creating a magical atmosphere.

Attending a holiday concert in Barcelona in December is a fantastic way to experience the city's festive spirit. From classical to modern, concerts are held in venues such as Palau de la Música Catalana and Gran Teatre del Liceu. Enjoy the music while surrounded by the beautiful architecture of the city.

Winter is the perfect time to indulge in hearty, warming Catalan dishes such as escudella i carn d'olla, a rich stew made with meat and vegetables, or calçots, a type of green onion that is traditionally grilled and served with romesco sauce.

During December, Barcelona is transformed into a sparkling winter wonderland with dazzling Christmas light displays throughout the city. Stroll down the famous La Rambla or Passeig de Gracia and admire the twinkling lights and festive decorations. 

Barcelona is home to a wealth of museums that cater to all tastes and interests. From the Picasso Museum and Joan Miró Foundation to the National Art Museum of Catalonia and the Barcelona Museum of Contemporary Art, visitors can indulge in the city's rich cultural heritage and artistic diversity.

Watching the New Year's Eve fireworks in Barcelona is a magical experience. The stunning light show is set against the backdrop of the city's famous landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia and Montjuic Castle. Crowds gather in Plaza Catalunya and along the beaches to ring in the new year with a bang.Watching the New Year's Eve fireworks in Barcelona is a magical experience. The stunning light show is set against the backdrop of the city's famous landmarks, including the Sagrada Familia and Montjuic Castle. Crowds gather in Plaza Catalunya and along the beaches to ring in the new year with a bang.

The Sagrada Familia is a breathtaking basilica designed by Antoni Gaudi, located in Barcelona. It has been under construction for over 100 years, with an anticipated completion date in 2026. The unique architecture and intricate details make it a must-visit attraction.

Ice skating is a popular winter activity in Barcelona, and there are several rinks set up around the city during the holiday season. One of the most popular is located in the Plaça Catalunya, right in the heart of the city.

FAQ's for Barcelona in December

What should i pack for a trip to barcelona in december.

Visitors to Barcelona in December should pack layers of clothing to adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day. It is also recommended to bring an umbrella or raincoat, as December can be quite rainy.

Can I use my mobile ticket to enter attractions in Barcelona in December?

Many attractions in Barcelona accept mobile tickets, which can be scanned directly from your phone. It is recommended to check with the attraction before purchasing tickets to confirm if they accept mobile tickets.

How early should I arrive at an attraction in Barcelona in December?

Arrival times can vary between attractions, so it is recommended to check the official websites of the attractions for information on recommended arrival times. In general, it is recommended to arrive at least 15-30 minutes before your scheduled entry time.

Are there any free attractions in Barcelona in December?

Yes, there are several free attractions in Barcelona, including the city's many parks and beaches, as well as some museums and galleries that offer free entry on certain days or during certain hours. It is recommended to check the official websites of the attractions for information on free entry.

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Best things to do in Barcelona this December

Dec 1, 2014 • 4 min read

The traditional christmas market at the Catedral. Image by Barcelona Tourism

The run up to Christmas is one of the most charming times to visit Barcelona, its streets hung with twinkling lights and lined with craft and food markets.

A huge outdoor ice rink is set up in the Plaça Catalunya, a life-size nativity scene fills the Plaça Sant Jaume with crowds, and the city's myriad old-fashioned shops take on a Dickensian air with their festive window displays.

World Press Photo 2014

This year's World Press Photo is staged at the CCCB , a former almshouse turned cultural centre. This peripatetic exhibition features the finest news images from around the world, covering a range of subjects and themes. When: 11th November to 12th December Where: CCCB, Carrer de Montalegre 5, Raval More info: cccb.org

Mr Brainwash

Fans of the Banksy documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop  (2010) will be familiar with Parisian artist Thierry Guetta, better known as Mr Brainwash. Amid some vestigial speculation that this is all a big prank, he is exhibiting some of his work in Barcelona. When: 17th December Where: 3 Punts Galeria, Carrer d'Aribau 75, Eixample More info: http://www.3punts.com

Christmas Lights

Over 400 streets are decorated with huge, grand displays of lights over the Yuletide season, with the most impressive to be found along La Rambla , Portal de l'Angel and the Passeig de Gràcia. New this Christmas is the addition of the Jean Nouvel-designed Torre Agbar (much like London's 'Gherkin') to the festivities, pulsating with light like an enormous futuristic Christmas tree. When: 21st November to 6th January Where: All over the city More info: bcn.cat/nadal

Every winter, the Plaça Catalunya is given over to an enormous ice-rink, open every day from 10am to 9pm. You can go solo or join a course – but don't forget your gloves. Occasionally some of the shops along the nearby Portal de l'Angel have discount vouchers next to the tills. When: 21st November to 11th January Where: Plaça Catalunya, Eixample More info: bargelona.cat

Nativity Scene

The pessebre (nativity scene) is big business in Catalunya and no home is without one. The biggest, best and often downright weirdest of them all, however, is the life-size version in the Plaça Sant Jaume . Its unveiling at the end of November is keenly awaited, given some of the surprises of previous years. Most famously the birth of Jesus was once rendered in a pile of steaming rocks, while other more conventional versions have included typical uniformed workers – street sweepers, firemen, bakers – taking the place of the traditional characters. When: 28th November to 6th January Where: Plaça Sant Jaume, Barri Gòtic More info: bcn.cat/nadal

Fira de Santa Llúcia

This medieval-looking Christmas market huddles around the cathedral , and specialises in Christmas decorations and Catalan traditions. As well as holly, mistletoe, tinsel and so on, these include the caganer  ('crapper'), a tiny squatting figure who sits in a corner of every nativity scene. When: 28th November to 23rd December Where: Plaça de la Seu, Barri Gòtic More info: bcn.cat/nadal

The Giant Log

The caga tió (crapping log) is a uniquely Catalan affair, an anthropomorphised log – complete with legs, smiley face and red Catalan hat – who evacuates his bowels of sweeties and little presents when beaten with sticks. This year a giant version sits in front of the Col•legi d'Arquitectes . When: 29th November to 23rd December Where: Plaça Nova More info: bcn.cat/nadal

Barcelona Hayride Festival

After a five-year lapse, the Hayride Festival is back with its blend of vintage sounds from the 50s and 60s, combining country, soul, rockabilly and blues bands. Be sure and dress appropriately for the occasion. When: 5th to 7th December Where: La Capsa, Avinguda del Pare Andreu de Palma 5, El Prat de Llobregat More info: barcelona.hayride.es

Sharon Van Etten

Dreamy-voiced folk rocker Sharon Van Etten brings her soulful songwriting and unique use of harmonies to the lavish Gran Teatre del Liceu opera house for her one date in Spain. She's here to promote her new album, Are We There . When: 10th December Where: Gran Teatre del Liceu, La Rambla 51-59 More info: liceubarcelona.cat

Händel's Messiah

One of Barcelona's best-loved traditions is this annual performance of the Messiah, held in the stunning environs of the 15th-century Santa María del Mar basilica. Its soaring nave and stark interior mean that wrapping up warmly is a good idea. When: 17th December Where: Santa María del Mar, Passeig del Born, Born More info: classictic.com

Cursa dels Nassos

A hugely popular 11km run through the city, named after the Home dels Nassos (Man of the Noses), a popular New Year character who has as many noses are there are days left in the year (this makes perfect sense to children, trust us). It's a joyful event where all generations join in, often with their dogs. When: 31st December Where: Begins Carrer Selva del Mar, Poblenou More info: bcn.cat/cursanassos

Sally Davies has lived in Barcelona since 2001, and writes on Spanish food and culture. She contributed to the latest Lonely Planet Barcelona guide, which is in the shops now. Follow her at @BCNExpert

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13 Things to Do in Barcelona in December

Imagine slipping away to Barcelona in December and soaking up the city’s unique mix of historic attractions, lively nightlife, culture, and cuisine. This beautiful Spanish destination offers something for everyone.

Ready to experience all that Barcelona has to offer? Read on as we provide 13 exciting things to do while visiting during this festive season.

Visit Sagrada Familia

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, it’s impossible to overlook one of the city’s most iconic landmarks – the Sagrada Familia . But if you’re lucky enough to be visiting in December, you’ll be treated to an extra special experience. This beautiful basilica, designed by Antoni Gaudi, is decorated with festive adornments that are sure to put you in the holiday spirit.

But even without the added holiday cheer, the Sagrada Familia is an impressive sight to behold. Its towering spires and intricate architectural details leave visitors in awe and make for an unforgettable memory.

Explore Park Güell

As you step into Park Güell, marvel at the remarkable structures that surround you.

Everywhere you turn, vibrant mosaics and twisted columns capture your attention. Designed by world-renowned Antoni Gaudí, this park is truly whimsical and unlike any other. Take a stroll through the grounds and admire the stunning views overlooking the city of Barcelona.

You’ll witness the genius of Gaudí’s work, drawing inspiration from nature and creating a blend of art and architecture that is truly remarkable. In every corner, there is something new to discover and enjoy.

Wander through the Gothic Quarter

As you stroll through the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona, you will be transported back in time to the medieval era. The charming, narrow alleys are waiting to be explored, with each turn revealing more unique shops and stunning architecture.

And of course, no visit to the Gothic Quarter would be complete without a stop at the Gothic Cathedral of Barcelona. Its grandeur and intricate design will leave you in awe.

Discover the Unmatched Luxury of Utopia Villas

If you’re planning a luxurious getaway, Utopia Villas should definitely be on your radar.

These exquisite villas offer unparalleled comfort and style, ensuring that you’ll have a truly unforgettable vacation. Each of the Utopia Villas boasts its own private pool, making it the perfect place to relax and soak up the Spanish sun. And if you’re looking to enjoy Barcelona’s vibrant nightlife, you’ll be pleased to know that the city is just a short drive away.

Enjoy Christmas markets

Experience the enchanting Fira de Santa Llúcia Christmas market, where you’ll discover an endless array of festive delights. Stroll through the rows of stalls offering traditional Catalan crafts, including exquisite wood carvings, ornate nativity sets, and handmade decorations, all designed to ignite the Yuletide spirit.

And as you explore the seasonal marketplace, be sure to indulge your taste buds with the mouth-watering treats on offer, from crispy churros dusted with cinnamon sugar to sumptuous nougat made with almonds and honey. A visit to the Fira de Santa Llúcia Christmas market is an opportunity to soak up the magical ambiance and enjoy this age-old Catalan tradition.

Experience the Magic Fountain

The Magic Fountain of Montjuïc is an absolute wonder to behold! This stunning landmark is home to an incredible light and water show that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone lucky enough to experience it.

As the water erupts into the air and dances to the carefully curated music, the atmosphere is truly electric. It’s a magical sight that you simply have to see to believe.

Go ice skating

Experience the magic of winter by going ice skating in the heart of the city.

During the festive season, temporary ice rinks pop up all over, giving you the perfect opportunity to glide on the ice and feel the chill in the air. What makes this activity even more special is the backdrop of iconic landmarks like the National Museum of Art of Catalonia (MNAC), turning a simple activity into an unforgettable experience.

Step outside your comfort zone and lace up your skates to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore the Picasso Museum

Step into the world of Picasso as you explore the Picasso Museum. Let your mind wander as you discover his impressive collection of paintings and sculptures, each one revealing a different side of the artist’s personality. Take a journey through his early years and witness how his artistic style evolved.

As you walk through the museum’s galleries, you’ll gain insight into the mind of one of the most renowned artists of the 20th century. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual observer, there’s something for everyone at the Picasso Museum.

Attend a Christmas concert

Barcelona during the holiday season is a bustling hub of Christmas activities, and one not to be missed is attending a Christmas concert. With numerous performances taking place throughout December, there is something for everyone, from classical music lovers to those seeking festive cheer.

Some of the concerts even take place in historic venues, giving attendees a truly unique and unforgettable experience. Whether you’re listening to a choir singing traditional carols or enjoying a symphony orchestra, the music, and atmosphere will transport you right into the heart of Christmas in Barcelona.

Enjoy Catalan cuisine

The food scene in Barcelona is one of the city’s biggest draws, and during the winter months, there’s no better way to warm up than by indulging in some hearty Catalan cuisine. Escudella I carn dollar, a stew made with meats and vegetables, is a popular dish that is sure to satisfy your hunger while filling you with warm and cozy feelings.

Another must-try winter dish is the calçots, which are grilled green onions served with a rich and flavorful romesco sauce. With all the delicious options available, you’re sure to experience the best of Catalan cooking during your stay in Barcelona.

Take a day trip to Montserrat

Montserrat boasts breathtaking views and a rich religious and cultural heritage. Take a leisurely hike, visit the Benedictine monastery, or simply relax and take in the serene surroundings. Montserrat truly offers something for everyone, and it’s the perfect way to recharge your batteries and reconnect with nature.

Planning to visit? Take these mistakes to avoid when going to Montserrat into consideration.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Plaça d’Espanya

Ring in the new year at one of Barcelona’s most vibrant and lively celebrations – the New Year’s Eve bash held at Plaça d’Espanya. Join the locals as they bid adieu to the old year and welcome the new one with a booming party.

With live music, dazzling fireworks, and the iconic Montjuïc Magic Fountain show, there’s no better place to get your groove on and say hello to the new year.

Watch a football match

Visiting Barcelona isn’t complete without catching a football match at the Camp Nou stadium. As home to one of the world’s most renowned football clubs, FC Barcelona, the energy and excitement at a live game is unbeatable. Witness the passionate supporters decked out in the team’s iconic Blaugrana colors, the roar of the crowd when a goal is scored, and the talent of the players on the pitch.

Whether you’re a fan of art, culture, or sports, there’s something for everyone in Barcelona. So get your bags packed and book your tickets – it’s time to start the adventure!

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December in Barcelona: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

TripSavvy /  Ashley Nicole Deleon  

Christmas is coming! But what will the weather be like? Barcelona in December is one of the warmer places in Europe, but this is still Europe: Don't expect beach weather and heatwaves. In the month of  December , the weather drops to even colder conditions than those experienced in November in the city, but luckily, it's still dry. For this reason, if you are hoping for a beach holiday, December probably is not the best time for you to visit Barcelona!

December is still incredibly festive throughout the city, as the Christmas season is in full swing, with markets, holiday decor, and plenty of other unique events to keep visitors entertained.

Barcelona Weather in December

Temperatures don't fall too low at this time of year in Barcelona , despite it being among the city's coldest months. With temperatures generally ranging from 50 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to 16 degrees Celsius), the weather provides time for some pleasant winter strolls.

• Average high: 57 degrees Fahrenheit (14 degrees Celsius)
• Average low: 46 degrees Fahrenheit (8 degrees Celsius)

Though one would expect mid-December to be colder than earlier in the month, Barcelona has seen some quite unusual weather at this time of year. Temperatures drop a few degrees toward the end of the month, though outliers can happen, and the city's records include a warm 68 degrees Fahrenheit (20 degrees Celsius) high and a freezing 25 degrees Fahrenheit (-4 degrees Celsius) low.

Barcelona receives an average of six hours of sunshine a day in December. In general, December in Barcelona is also quite dry, with minimal rainfall, averaging around 1.25 inches (32 mm). (October and November are among the country's wettest months, however.)

What to Pack

Barcelona in December isn't freezing, but you will need a few winter layers to be comfortable and some cold weather basics will come in handy. Prepare for temperatures in the mid-teens, but bring a T-shirt just in case—and a jacket for the evenings. To start, a good packing list should include:

• Short-sleeve shirts for layering
• Long-sleeve tops or blouses
• A sweatshirt or cardigan
• A light jacket
• A lightweight scarf or pashmina
• A dress or slightly more formal outfit for evenings out 

December Events in Barcelona

Christmas is coming, so check out the Christmas markets and nativity scenes that will be all over town at this time of year.

• Drap-Art : This annual creative festival dedicated to recycling is typically held into early December and includes concerts, performances, workshops, and a Christmas market.
• Fira de Santa Llúcia : This traditional Christmas market has more than 300 stalls. It's held on the Pla de la Seu through late December. This market is the perfect place to stock up on nativity scenes, poinsettia, and more.
• Fira de Nadal de Sagrada Família : The famous cathedral's annual Christmas fair that has been held since the 1960s. More than 100 different stalls visit the market to sell their festive handicrafts.
• Christmas Day  (Nadal) and Boxing Day (Sant Esteve) : Both are widely celebrated through Spain. Barcelona hosts midnight Christmas mass and families gather together for elaborate feats and gift-giving.
• New Year's Eve : December 31 is largely a holiday celebrated with family, but revelers will still take to the Plaça Catalunya to celebrate the incoming new year.

December Travel Tips

• A visit to Barcelona isn't complete without seeing famous sites like the Sagrada Familia and the Picasso Museum, but you can skip lines for these attractions by getting your tickets in advance online.
• Autumn and winter bring fresh mushrooms to Barcelona's markets. Look for wild varieties like  rovellons  which can be fried or incorporated with eggs for a delicious omelet. 
• Want to hit the slopes? Surprisingly, it's possible! You can visit the ski resorts of La Molina and La Masella, both of which are accessible via bus and offer ski rentals.
• While a city like Barcelona doesn't ever truly have an off-season, December is much quieter than the summer months and can be a great time to visit for a traveler looking to save some money.
• Barcelona's airport is surprisingly convenient to the city. In just 25 minutes, you can be in the city center. Take the blue Aerobus, which costs just 5 Euro.
• Restaurants in Spain serves meals on a schedule that is unusual to many visitors. Most serve lunch (what most people likely think of as tapas) in the early afternoon. Dinner isn't eaten until much later, usually 9 or 10 p.m.
• While all locals will speak Spanish, most day-to-day conversations take place in Catalan . It's helpful to learn a few phrases before you go.

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Home » Europe » Barcelona in Winter – Everything you should know before your Barcelona Winter Vacation

Barcelona in Winter – Everything you should know before your Barcelona Winter Vacation

Barcelona is arguably known worldwide as a great summer destination. Because let’s be honest, who could say no to a beach vacation, sun, and ice-cold sangria? But did you know that a visit to Barcelona in winter can really be worthwhile as well?

Whether you want to visit Barcelona in December for Christmas or during January and February – there are plenty of great events, fantastic food, and, as always, lots of wonderful Barcelona attractions at this time of year.

Below you will find the essential facts, advantages, and disadvantages of a visit to Barcelona in the winter, temperatures as well as things to do in Barcelona in winter, winter events, yummy winter dishes, and everything you should know for a winter trip to Barcelona.

What to find out in this post

• 1 Barcelona Winter Temperatures
• 2 Pros and Cons of a Visit to Barcelona in Winter
• 3.1 Unique Christmas traditions in Catalonia
• 3.2 Christmas Markets in Barcelona
• 4.1 Holidays in Barcelona’s wintertime
• 4.2 Events in Barcelona during the winter months
• 5.2 Canelons
• 5.3 Roasted chestnuts
• 5.4 Churros con chocolate
• 5.5 Calçots
• 6.1 Visit Sagrada Família
• 6.2 Casa Batlló
• 6.3 Casa Mila (La Pedrera)
• 6.4 Beach Walks
• 6.5 Park Güell
• 6.6 Las Ramblas
• 6.7 Font Màgica
• 6.8 Barcelona’s Museums
• 6.9 Ice-Skating in Barcelona
• 6.10 Winter Day Trip to La Molina
• 6.11 Go on a hike
• 7.1 Mini Winter Packing List for Barcelona
• 7.2 You won’t need those things
• 8.1 About the AuthorVicki

Barcelona Winter Temperatures

Compared to Central European countries, the temperatures in Barcelona are pleasantly mild, even in winter. The average temperatures in December – February are a pleasant 8 – 15° C (46 – 59°F) .

The mild Barcelona weather averages 3-4 rainy days a month. Conversely, this means you can expect plenty of sun in Barcelona, even in the winter.

The Barcelona December weather is usually relatively warmer than January and February, so you can still enjoy coffee on one of the city’s countless terraces during Christmas.

Be sure to bring a warm jacket despite the sunny temperatures. Because as soon as the sun is gone, the temperatures also drop. The relatively high humidity and the cool breeze that blows from the sea make the whole thing seem even colder. So, believe me, if you are out in the evening or in the shade, you will be grateful for your winter jacket.

BARCELONA INFO BOX

Where to stay in Barcelona: Hotel Santa Marta (Great hotel in the center near attractions & beach) or W Barcelona (Luxury option directly at the beach)

The most popular activities & tours in Barcelona

Sagrada Familia Ticket – Skip the Line

Camp Nou – Barça Museum und Tour

Barcelona Card – More than 25 Attractions

Park Güell – Skip the Line

La Pedrera – Skip the Line

Getting there: Make sure to check for the best flight deals on Flight comparisons like Skyscanner

Transport: T-Casual Ticket (10-trips-Ticket for € 12.15) or Hola BCN Day Ticket

Want to rent a car? You can find great deals on RentalCars . It gets cheaper from El Prat Airport.

Barcelona Must-Have: Practical Spanish Travel Dictionary or Catalan Travel Dictionary and Barcelona-Guide

Pros and Cons of a Visit to Barcelona in Winter

• Cheaper than in summer
• Fewer tourists
• Cooler than summer, but warmer than cities in Northern/Central Europe
• Some events/traditions that only take place in winter
• Colder temperatures
• No swimming in the sea
• Rain is more likely than in summer.

Barcelona in December – Christmas in Barcelona

Like most Western cities in December, Barcelona is wonderfully decorated for Christmas. There are many terrific festive lights to discover everywhere in the city center, especially in Plaça Catalunya.

In addition to gifts and Christmas decorations in the shop windows, several Christmas events also ensure a festive mood.

My personal favorite place during the Catalan Christmas season is Plaça Reial , near Las Ramblas. The giant palm trees are decorated with Christmas lights, creating a wonderfully exotic Christmas atmosphere.

Unique Christmas traditions in Catalonia

Probably the strangest Christmas tradition I’ve ever heard can be found here in Catalonia. It is actually a very innocent children’s tradition, but admittedly it may seem very strange to outsiders.

Caga tió (en: shit log ) is a Catalan figure that you can buy everywhere around Catalonia at Christmas time. It is also called Tió de Nadal. This figure is a small log with a typical red Catalan hat and a painted/carved face.

This small log gives gifts for children on Christmas or Epiphany in the old tradition. To do this, the children must hit him with sticks and sing the Caga tió song, almost like a Catalan piñata. Before that, however, it must be fed by the children throughout the Christmas season. So the Catalan children leave him a plate of something to eat every night, e.g., Cookies or fruit.

Before giving the presents, the back of the Caga tió is then covered with a blanket under which the adults then hide the gifts.

That wasn’t enough “ shit*y ” traditions for you? Perfect, because the Catalans have more of them in stock. While in our Western nativity scenes, mostly Maria and Josef sit with their holy child and share the stable with a few animals, angels, and shepherds, there is still a little surprise to be found in the Catalan crib: the Caganer.

These are small statues that do their business with their pants down. While the typical Caganer was only available with a traditional Catalan outfit, there are now various statues, such as celebrities or characters from films or comics, such as Darth Vader, in the Caganer style . This unique little figure has become one of the best-selling souvenirs in the city, even outside of the Christmas season.

Three Kings

While the Christmas season for most Westerners ends on boxing day, the Spaniards expect on January 6 yet another grand celebration – Epiphany. Although the day is also known in order countries, it is usually not celebrated as it is in Spain.

Many Spanish children have to be patient until they can finally unpack their gifts, while most children in Western countries are usually released from waiting on Christmas Eve.

In Barcelona, ​​this important day is celebrated with a huge parade that runs through the whole city. You’ll find more on this later in this article.

This day is often celebrated with a Roscón de Reyes in Catalan families or among friends. This is a cake wreath filled with cream. Two small statues are usually baked into the cake. According to the old tradition, there is a statue representing a black bean and a figure representing Jesus (but it can also be a crown or something along those lines).

Whoever gets the piece with the statue of Jesus will be crowned “ Prince ” for the rest of the day and may wear a paper crown. However, whoever receives the piece with the black bean must pay for the cake next year.

Christmas Markets in Barcelona

Of course, Barcelona also has some great Christmas markets, like almost every European city during this season. Even if they are hardly comparable to the Christmas markets in Germany , they are still worth a visit.

What makes them unique is not the winter magic that lies above them but the very own Catalan Christmas traditions that underlie them.

Fira de Santa Llúcia

The Fira de Santa Llúcia ( Feria de Santa Lucía ) is by far the oldest Christmas market in the city. Its roots go back to 1786 when the market was first mentioned in writing. It is the oldest Christmas market in the town and the most visited.

The market is located in the Barri Gòtic district (Barrio Gótico), right next to Barcelona’s popular cathedral. The sale of figures and decorations for Christmas nativity scenes is particularly popular at this Christmas market. In addition, jewelry, sweets, and souvenirs are also offered here.

Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família

The Fira de Nadal is also a famous Christmas market for tourists and locals alike. With its proximity to the popular Sagrada Família, this is hardly surprising. The highlight of this small Christmas market is the sale of (small) Christmas trees.

This Christmas market feels far less touristy than the Fira de Santa Llùcia and is, therefore, particularly popular with the locals.

Fira de Nadal de Port Vell

Let’s go on with the newest Christmas market in Barcelona because it has only recently been possible to visit this market at Christmas time. This Christmas market is modeled on other European Christmas markets and therefore has a slightly different atmosphere than the two just presented.

As the name suggests, this Christmas market is located on the Plaça del Portal de la Pau at the Old Port (Port Vell). Apart from the fact that the huts here were made more in Central European style, the market itself looks even more Christmassy than the other two. In addition to a giant illuminated Christmas tree, there is a carousel and an illuminated Ferris wheel.

Fira de Reis

The Fira de Reis is not a Christmas market in the traditional sense but actually a “ king’s market.” This is clear not only from the fact that the market will not open until the end of December but also from the way the market is presented.

The market is located on Gran Via in Barcelona. It’s particularly popular with families with children as there are some activities for the smallest visitors. But of course, there are also the traditional stands where sweets and nativity scene figures are sold.

Holidays and Events in Barcelona during the winter

Holidays in barcelona’s wintertime.

• 06.12 Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day)
• 08.12 Inmaculada Concepción (Immaculate Conception)
• 25.12 Navidad (Christmas)
• 26.12 Sant Esteve (Boxing Day)
• 01.01 Año Nuevo (Nw Year)
• 06.01 Reyes Mago (Holy Three Kings)
• 14.02 Día de San Valentín (Valentine’s Day)

Events in Barcelona during the winter months

New year’s eve (noche vieja).

For many, spending New Year’s Eve in Barcelona is a real highlight. After all, the nightlife of the Catalan capital is considered one of the best in Europe. However, many don’t know that the typical New Year’s fireworks here in Spain are not as typical as in other cities.

There are occasional fireworks, especially near the beach, but not nearly as many as you might know from Central Europe (the big annual fireworks take place here in Spain for San Juan in June).

Instead, there is a tradition of eating 12 grapes during the last minutes before midnight and swallowing them before midnight. There is a countdown to this on television. One grape must be eaten with each chime. The whole procedure is actually not that easy. But the doce uvas tradition is said to bring good luck for the coming year.

For me, calçots are definitely the most important reason to visit Catalonia in winter. You shouldn’t miss this delicious Catalan specialty if you visit Barcelona between January and March.

These Catalan spring onions are enjoyed at a so-called calçotada . Roasted meat and the typical pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomatoes) are also served. It is best to let someone first show you how exactly it works. But once you’ve figured out how to eat the onions, it’s fun and tastes incredibly tasty.

First, you must peel off the onions’ slightly burnt skin before you can dip them in the delicious Romesco sauce. It’s best to wear a pair of gloves and protection for your clothes because you can get a little dirty while eating.

Sales in January (Shopping)

If you like shopping, January in Barcelona is probably the perfect month for your visit. Many of the popular stores (especially fashion chains such as Zara, H&M, etc.) have their annual sales at this time. Then you can shop as much as you like and find some incredible bargains.

But also keep in mind that the shops can usually get quite crowded and there can be long lines in front of the changing rooms.

Extra tip: Try to avoid weekends when shopping. The best time is probably in the mornings during the week when the shops are not yet so crowded.

Three Kings Parade

As mentioned in this guide, the Three Kings Day takes place on January 6. The evening before the big day, every year, a big parade takes place that makes all children’s eyes light up. But this event is also well worth seeing for adults.

Every year there are many creative vehicles and lots of great costumes, interesting music, and great performances. According to tradition, the mayor gives the three kings the keys to the city so they can bring gifts to every child in the city at night.

Els Llums de Sant Pau

Event Hours Els LLums de Sant Pau: 22.11.22 – 08.01.23: 06 pm – 09.30 pm

Entrance Fee Els LLums de Sant Pau : 12 €

Tickets for Els LLums de Sant Pau : Via the official Website (no Affiliate-Link)

The former hospital Sant Pau Recinte Modernista is not only one of the most beautiful buildings in the city, but every year during the Christmas season, it hosts one of the most delightful events in the city.

In addition to wonderful candlelight violin concerts regularly held here outside of the Christmas season, the Llums de Sant Pau (Engl. “ The Lights of Sant Pau “) are definitely one of the most beautiful spectacles of the year.

In the garden and courtyard of the unique Modernisme building, incredible light decorations and unique exhibits are set up at this time, which you can admire every evening (except the 24.12., 31.12. and 05.01.) during the Spanish Christmas season.

The event begins right at the entrance, where the facade of the impressive building is decorated with fantastic lighting effects that make every passerby stop briefly to admire the unique visual displays.

Barcelona’s Christmas Lights

Even though it doesn’t usually snow in Barcelona , the Christmas lights in Barcelona can definitely keep up with other typical European Christmas metropolises.

The lights illuminate the entire city every year from the end of November and shine every night until the end of the Spanish Christmas season on January 6.

You’ll find awe-inspiring decorations in the city center, such as Plaça Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, or Plaça Reial.

Another excellent example of festive lighting in Barcelona is Avenida Gaudí, the small pedestrian street between Sagrada Família and Sant Pau Recinte Modernism. There are Christmas lights here and festive music to go with them.

Carnival in Sitges

If you happen to be in Barcelona at Carnival time (by chance), you shouldn’t miss the Carnival celebrations in Sitges. About 40 minutes by train from Barcelona, the small town has made a name for itself as the region’s colorful LGBT capital. Its carnival customs are, therefore, no less eventful.

The Carnival in Sitges has been celebrated for over 100 years, and so there are various parades during the Carnival Weeks that will not only delight the smallest visitors. Impressive costumes and colorful decorations await you.

Food in Winter in Barcelona

When I just think of Turron, I’m already counting the days until Christmas to enjoy this delicious candy again. The delightful sweet bars can be bought all over the country at Christmas time and are not only enjoyed by Spanish children.

There are various types of Turron. The best way to describe them is with white nougat. However, new and unusual varieties are added every year. Just give them a try and let us know which one is your favorite.

Catalan families particularly enjoy this popular dish on December 27. You probably already know the Italian version of this dish: the cannelloni. On the second day of Christmas, they are traditionally filled with meat from the previous day and a delicious bechamel sauce.

But many restaurants also offer this delicious Catalan dish in winter. If you have the chance, you should definitely give it a try.

Roasted chestnuts

What the roasted almonds are for us Germans at the Christmas markets in Germany are the roasted chestnuts at the Spanish Christmas and winter markets. As soon as the temperatures in the city drop, the roasted chestnut stands appear at many places throughout the city.

And so it happens that in the streets of Barcelona, there is usually the sweet smell of these fried delicacies during the wintertime.

Churros con chocolate

Another winter highlight in Barcelona is churros con chocolate. Although you can theoretically find these delicious pastries all year round, they are particularly popular in winter.

There are various restaurants and bakeries, as well as small stalls in winter that offer delicious pastries. The churros are especially fresh in the mornings. Traditionally, these warm pastries are dipped in hot liquid chocolate and eaten this way. You can then drink the rest of the chocolate served in a cup. Could there be a better way to warm up on a cold winter day?

The Calçots already mentioned under Events are another culinary delicacy in winter. You can find them throughout Catalonia and Barcelona during the months of January to March and enjoy them during a so-called calçotada .

The best things to do in Barcelona in Winter

Visit sagrada família.

Opening Hours Sagrada Familia: 09.00 am – 06/07/08 pm (depending on the season)

Entrance Fee Sagrada Familia: from 30 €

Tickets: You may want to book your ticket online in advance to avoid sold-out tickets on the spot and hours of waiting in line. You can find tickets and tours online here .

Metro-Stop: Sagrada Familia (L5 or L2)

The Sagrada Família is probably the most important building in the city if not the whole country. Gaudí’s masterpiece simply captivates all of its visitors. No matter whether in summer or winter, the Sagrada Família belongs merely to every visit to Barcelona.

The fact that you can warm up a bit while looking at the breathtaking interior architecture of the basilica is, of course, only a small plus point.

If you visit the famous basilica during the Christmas season, be sure to also pay a visit to the popular Christmas market, Fira de Nadal, located in the park across the street.

Casa Batlló

Opening Hours Casa Battló: 09.00 am – 06.30 pm; Noches mágicas: 06.30 pm – 08 pm

Entrance Fee Casa Batlló: 35 € Standard // 49 € Noches Mágicas

Tickets Casa Batlló: Book your ticket online here .

Metro-Stop:  Passeig de Gràca (L2, L3 or L4)

This colorful building, located on Passeig de Gracia, definitely stands out from the crowd. At the beginning of the 20th century, Casa Batlló was designed by Barcelona Designers Gaudí for Josep Batlló i Casanovas and has been an integral part of Barcelona’s streets ever since.

The building has a special meaning for the Catalan culture, as it was designed in the style of Sant Jordi (Saint George), the city’s patron saint. This is particularly evident from the fact that the roof of this unique building was modeled on the shape of a dragon.

Casa Mila (La Pedrera)

Opening Hours: 09 am – 06.30 pm; Night tour: 08.40 pm – 10 pm

Entrance Fee: from 24 €

Tickets: Check tickets and tours on GetYourGuide here

Metro-Stop:  Diagonal (L3 or L5)

Casa Mila is another building on Passeig de Gràcia designed by Gaudí. Evening visits, refined with music and a drink, are particularly popular during the winter months.

Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera due to its shape, is anything but ordinary. The shapes of this building are absolutely fascinating, both inside and out. Just as spectacular is the incredible view from the roof of the building, which promises a direct view of the Sagrada Família.

Beach Walks

Even if the beach may not be suitable for swimming during the winter, a walk on the beach is almost twice as worth it. With an average of around 26 sunny days a month, the winter is also very sunny here in Barcelona.

At the same time, there are far fewer visitors here during the winter months than during the warm months. This gives you plenty of space and a lot more peacefulness and tranquility during your walk.

Opening hours Park Güell: 09.30 am – 07.30 pm

Entrance fee Park Güell: from 10 €; rest of the park: free of charge

Tickets: You should definitely reserve your ticket in advance to avoid long queues. Tickets and tours for Park Güell online can be found here .

Getting there: Metro Lesseps (L3) or bus 24 (direction El Carmel) to Trav de Dalt.

In addition to the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell is probably the city’s most prominent landmark. Even in winter, the way here is worthwhile. Since fewer tourists visit the park at this time of year, this usually means more beautiful photos for you.

During the summer, the park can also get quite hot, making your visit a bit tiring. In winter, on the other hand, you can let the warm rays of the sun warm you.

Not surprisingly, the park itself was also designed by designer Antoni Gaudí.

Las Ramblas

The popular promenade Las Ramblas is also not as crowded during the winter months as it is during the summer. So you can take a leisurely stroll along the approximately 1.3 km long path leading from the city center to the harbor without being pushed around by other visitors.

Be sure to stop at Plaça Reial , which borders Las Ramblas. This is one of my favorite places in Barcelona during the winter, with its beautiful winter lighting on its giant palm trees.

A visit to the most popular market in Barcelona, La Boqueria , is also worthwhile at this time of year. With fewer tourists and lots of Christmas sweets, winter is probably the best time to visit here.

Font Màgica

Opening Hours Magic Fountains: Depending on the season. Check here for current Opening Hours

Entrance Fee Magic Fountains: free of charge

Metro-Stop: Espanya (L1)

UPDATE 2024: The Magic Fountains are temporarily not taking place because of the water shortage in the region!

Although the magical fountains at Montjuïc are a real experience every season, the atmosphere here seems even more magical than usual during the winter. Especially at Christmas, when Christmas sounds replace the music of the water and light show, this magical show will make you feel all Christmasy.

Barcelona’s Museums

Barcelona’s museums are the perfect place to warm up while learning exciting things when it’s cold outside. Luckily, the selection of museums in the Catalan capital is anything but small. Whether you are interested in history, traveling as a couple, family, or solo, you will definitely find something that interests you here.

Barcelona is also home to some of the most important art museums in the country. If you prefer something a little more unusual, maybe the city’s erotic, hemp, or chocolate museum is the right place for you.

Ice-Skating in Barcelona

Even if you can hardly imagine it in the sunny Barcelona weather, there are various skating rinks in Barcelona during the winter just waiting for your visit. So if you don’t want to do without the typical winter activities in Barcelona, you can definitely have some fun here.

The most popular skating rink in the Les Cortes district belongs to the L’illa Diagonal Center shopping center . The large shopping center in La Maquinista also offers an ice skating rink during the winter, and so does the Christmas Market at the Old Port of Barcelona .

The last famous ice rink is next to the Camp Nou Barça stadium . You also have the option of indoor ice skating at the Skating Club de Barcelona, which opens its doors to you all year round.

Winter Day Trip to La Molina

Did you know that you can even find skiing opportunities just a few kilometers from Barcelona? Exactly, you read correctly. While you sit comfortably in the sun one day while enjoying your Spanish tapas, you can rush down to the snow-covered ski slopes the next day.

La Molina is a ski resort located less than a 2½ hour’s drive from the Catalan capital. You can either stay there or visit La Molina on a day trip from Barcelona. You can get there either by (rental) car, train, or bus.

Go on a hike

The colder temperatures in town are just perfect for a little escape into nature. Whether you choose to visit the surrounding mountains or take a hiking tour from Barcelona to hiking trails in the area. There are many beautiful paths to choose from.

What to wear in Barcelona in the winter

The most important thing to know first: even though Barcelona may seem like a year-round summer destination to you, there is winter here as well, despite everything. Even though the temperatures don’t drop as much as in most other European cities, and it doesn’t usually snow, that doesn’t mean it can’t get cold.

The high humidity and the chilly wind from the Mediterranean Sea make for some cold walks even here in winter. So if you want to visit the Catalan capital in winter, you can safely leave your summer clothes at home.

In plain language, this means: you don’t need shorts, summer dresses, miniskirts, or anything else along those lines .

The best way is to dress in layers, where you wear several layers on top of each other, which you can take off when it’s warm and put on again when it’s cold.

Mini Winter Packing List for Barcelona

The following mini-packing list is only meant as a small overview and to give you an idea of what your personal winter packing list for Barcelona could look like. You can, of course, adapt it according to your preferences depending on how long you stay and in which month you plan your visit.

• 3 thin sweaters/long sleeve shirts
• 1 T-shirt/top/shirt for going out
• 1 jacket (usually an all-weather jacket or similar is sufficient. However, if you are traveling at night or early in the morning, you may want to switch to a thin winter jacket or a thicker transitional jacket. The friendliest for your luggage and always my first choice when traveling is a lightly padded jacket that weighs little and folds up easily. I personally use ).
• 2-3 pairs of long pants; for women, winter leggings or tights are a great space-saving solution
• A pair of comfy shoes (already worn, preferably)
• Scarf or shawl (on days with a lot of wind and high humidity, you’ll be thankful for this)
• Sunscreen (Yes, even in winter, the sun shines frequently and strongly here. Especially for beach walks, I recommend you apply sunscreen)
• headgear if necessary

You won’t need those things

• You usually don’t need gloves, thick hats, or the like unless you are cycling or traveling at night/early in the morning.
• A rain poncho/extra rain jacket is usually not necessary either, as it rarely rains in Barcelona. However, if your jacket is waterproof, that could be an advantage, of course
• As already mentioned, no summer clothes

FAQ about Barcelona in Winter

In theory, snow is possible in Barcelona during the winter. However, it’s rather unlikely, though. When it snows (about once every 1-2 years), the snow has mostly melted before it even touches the ground.

The seawater is usually too cold for swimming in winter. The average water temperature is between 12.5 and 14 °C (54,5 – 57 °F) in January and February and between 12.5 and 17.5 °C (54,5 – 63,5 °F) in December. In December, there are sometimes a couple of brave people who still dare to go into the water, but this definitely has nothing to do with a relaxed beach holiday.

Yes, there are fireworks on New Year’s Eve. However, this is usually not nearly as long and impressive as in other cities worldwide. The most important fireworks display in Spain takes place in San Juan in June.

The longer, the better. You should spend at least three days, e.g., a long weekend in Barcelona to see the city’s main attractions. However, we recommend that you stay in the city for at least five days to discover the most beautiful places in the city without any rush.

Compared to most Central European cities, Barcelona is usually a bit cheaper. But of course, it depends on what you want to see and where you are staying. You can get a rough idea in our Barcelona Budget Guide here.

Have you ever been to Barcelona in winter? Can you recommend a visit? What is stopping you from visiting Barcelona during this season? Let us know in the comments below!

Interested in Barcelona?

About the Author Vicki

Hi, we are Vicki & Eduardo, an international travel couple on a mission to help you save money for priceless travel experience. Follow us through the miracles of this world and you will be rewarded with a bunch of practical travel tips.

Barcelona in December: What's the weather like?

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written by Joanne Owen

updated 10.09.2024

In a nutshell, visiting Barcelona in December means you’ll experience mild winter conditions. Though   temperatures are cool at this time of year, the weather is pretty pleasant compared with many other parts of Europe, which makes it a good winter destination for travelers who are looking for a crowd-free culture-oriented trip. Like the sound of that? Read on for detail on the weather in Barcelona in December, along with tips on how to plan your trip, and suggestions for what to see and do. 

Is December a good time to visit Barcelona?

Sunshine, average temperatures and rainfall in december, what about the crowds and cost, what to do in barcelona in december.

• Plan your trip to Barcelona in December

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While there’s no bad time to visit arty Barcelona — capital of  Catalunya in the northeast of Spain — deciding when’s a good time to visit depends on what you most want from your trip.

Considering the mild weather in Barcelona in December, it’s a pretty fine time for culture vultures to visit, especially those who aren’t keen on huge crowds and high temperatures. 

Though this is winter — which means blissing out on Barca’s beaches won’t be on the cards — rainfall is low, and the cooler weather makes visiting the city’s cultural attractions all the more comfortable.

At the same time, Christmas markets and lights add seasonal sparkle to vacations, rendering iconic attractions like the Sagrada Família, Park Güell, and the Gothic Quarter all the more magical.

Still making up your mind? While there’s no shortage of reasons to visit Barcelona , you might want to weigh up whether to visit Madrid or Barcelona first . 

Alternatively, if you fancy experiencing  five of Spain’s most remarkable cities — Madrid ,  Barcelona ,  Seville ,  Granada and Valencia — without the hassle of planning, take a look at our customisable  Iconic Cities of Spain  trip, and talk to our local experts to kickstart curating your dream trip.

The mild weather in Barcelona in December is ideal for strolling Park Güell © Shutterstock

Sitting in winter, the weather in Barcelona in December typically experiences an average low temperature range of 40°F to 45°F (4°C to 7°C).

At the other end of the scale, expect an average high range of   55°F to 60°F (13°C to 16°C), and around 5-6 hours of sunshine a day.

Barcelona in December also enjoys relatively clear skies, and moderate rainfall. In terms of the numbers, we're talking an average of 1.8 to 2.2 inches (45 to 55 mm) across the month. 

In summary, Barcelona in December is   mild, pretty dry and often sunny.

Want wider context on the weather?  Read up on the  weather in Spain in December , and the best time to go to Spain .

Camp Nou, Barcelona © Shutterstock

December sits within Barcelona’s low season for tourism, which means the city will be far less crowded than it is during the peak summer months. 

That said, be aware there’s usually a spike in visitor numbers around Christmas and New Year.

You can also expect travel costs to be lower in December, with cheaper flights and accommodation available, especially if you book early and take advantage of low season early-bird deals.

As with crowds, note that prices may increase slightly during the peak holiday season i.e. right around Christmas and New Year’s Eve.

On a budget?  Discover Barca’s best things to do for FREE ! 

Traveling beyond Barcelona? Find out about fab  free things to do in Madrid , and discover the best places to visit in Europe on a budget .

Sagrada, Barcelona © Shutterstock

Considering the Barcelona weather in December — along with this being festive season — here are some of the best things to do in the city through the month.

Discover Gothic glory and Gaudí  icons in crowd-free conditions

Offering cooler weather and smaller crowds, December is a marvellous time to do a deeper dive into Barcelona’s biggest icons.

For example, while Sagrada Família — one of Gaudí’s most iconic works — is a must-visit whenever you visit the city, December’s milder temperatures and less busy conditions are well-suited to more immersive exploration of both its interior and exterior.

In addition, Park Güell, another Gaudí masterpiece, is much quieter in winter, which means you can truly take in the innovative majesty of its mosaic designs without vying for space.

We also love strolling the city’s glorious Gothic Quarter   (Barri Gòtic) in winter. Come December, festive lights give the winding streets, historic buildings and charming plazas added atmosphere. 

Antoni Gaudi's Case Mila, Barcelona © Shutterstock

Explore Christmas markets

Staying on the seasonal theme, visiting Barcelona in December means you’ll be able to enjoy the festive fun of Fira de Santa Llúcia  — Barcelona’s most famous Christmas market.

Located in front of Barcelona Cathedral, it’s a great place to pick up festive gifts, decorations and traditional Catalan holiday items, among them Caga Tió   — a log with a smiling face that "poops" presents for children.

Go ice-skating

Adding to the festive vibe, a temporary   ice-skating rink   is usually set up in   Plaça Catalunya in December. 

There's no better way to spend a seasonally-charged afternoon in the city.

Plaça de Catalunya, Barcelona © AdobeStock

Meander magical Montjuïc

Take advantage of December’s mild winter weather to explore Montjuïc, where you can marvel at Montjuïc Castle and enjoy epic views of the city. 

December is also an atmospheric time to soak up Montjuïc’s Font Màgica (Magic Fountain). On certain nights the fountain is illuminated by a kitschy, kaleidoscopic show of sound and light that’s free to view.

Magic Fountain, Barcelona © Shutterstock

Relish regional cuisine

While we recommend checking out the best tapas bars in Barcelona whenever you visit, December has the bonus of being a great month to indulge in hearty traditional Catalan dishes like  escudella i carn d’olla  (a moreish meat stew),  calçots (grilled green onions) and churros with hot chocolate. 

La Boqueria market is also a must-visit for foodies.

Editors tip: not to detract you from Barcelona, but if you’re into Spanish food in a big way, our culinary experience in Seville has been curated to make your mouth water.

La Boqueria market, Barcelona © Shutterstock

Plan your trip to Barcelona in December

If, after considering the weather in Barcelona in December, you’re starting to plan your own trip, here are a few tips to help you along the way.

First up, if you’re not actually keen on the process of planning, check out our customisable  Spain itineraries . 

With a  local expert  on hand to curate your perfect trip, book every last detail, and provide support while you’re away, you’ll get to skip the stress of planning, leaving you with more time to focus on what really matters. Namely, counting down the days to your vacation.

We also recommend diving into our guide to how to plan a trip to Spain . It covers everything from deciding where to go and how long you need, to how to get there, and where to stay.

On that subject, a key part of planning any trip is figuring out where to stay according to your tastes and budget. 

So, whether you’re looking for a family-friendly district (hello, Sarrià-Sant Gervasi), or want to be close to night life (in which case consider bedding down in Poble Sec), you'll want to read up on the  best places to stay in Barcelona .

Lastly, for in-depth expert advice on what to see and do in Barcelona — and where to eat, sleep, drink and shop — get hold of a copy of  The Rough Guide to Barcelona , with a handy  pocket guide  available for shorter trips.

Visit Spain in other months

• Best time to visit Spain
• Spain Weather in November
• Spain Weather in October
• Weather in Spain in March
• Weather in Spain in April
• Weather in Spain in December
• Weather in Spain in January
• Weather in Spain in February
• Weather in Spain in September
• Weather in Spain in May
• Weather in Spain in July
• Weather in Spain in June

Joanne is a Pembrokeshire-born writer with a passion for the nature, cultures and histories of the Caribbean region, especially Dominica. Also passionate about inspiring a love of adventure in young people, she’s the author of several books for children and young adults, hosts international writing workshops, and has written articles on the Caribbean and inspirational community initiatives for Rough Guides. Follow her @JoanneOwen on Twitter and @joanneowenwrites on Instagram.

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What to Do in Barcelona in December

This post covers the top 10 things to do in Barcelona in December, updated for 2024.

We include evening, free, and family-friendly activities.

December's weather is too cold for the beach but is an excellent time to explore the city's cultural sites and nightlife. 

TOP 10 EVENTS AND THINGS TO DO

This top 10 list has concerts, football games, tours, and other fun things to do this month in Barcelona.

If you’re looking for even more fun things to do, make sure to check out our other popular Barcelona posts: 

• Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
• Free Walking Tours
• Attraction Concession Passes
• Where to Store Your Luggage

1. Take a Sightseeing Tour

City Sightseeing Barcelona  is one of the more well-known names to operate in the city.

They are a hop-on-hop-off bus tour that will help you get your bearings in Barcelona and double as a convenient form of transportation.

Of course, we recommend  pay-what-you-like walking tours  to start with.

Most free walking tours cover sites and subjects such as the Gothic Quarter, Gaudi, and Modernist architecture.

If you miss any of the guided tours available, you can always just take our own self-guided Barcelona tour .

If you're willing to brave the cold breeze,  bike tours  are popular with adventurous visitors.

2. Go to a Sporting Event

European Football (soccer) is quite popular in Spain, and the Barcelona team is aptly named  FC Barcelona .

Taking  a tour of Camp Nou , FC Barcelona's football stadium, would be a fun thing to do for any football fan.

Another football team you might try to get tickets for is  RCD Espanyol .

If your interest is in basketball, there's  FC Barcelona Basquet , a team that's seen player Pau Gasol go on to become a six-time NBA All-Star.

Finally, the Barcelona Master Final World Padel Tour , a racket tournament for a sport often called Padel Tennis, is in town in December.

For more fun ideas, check out  our family-friendly section of our Things to Do in Barcelona post.

3. Attend a Flamenco Show

Flamenco is a traditional Spanish art form that is based on folkloric traditions and combines instrumental music, dance, and song.

There are a number of shows in the city that give you a real sense of the spirit involved in this art form.

Here are just a few of the shows you can attend:

• Flamenco at City Hall
• Tablao Flamenco Cardobes
• Los Tarantos Flamenco Show
• Flamenco Show w/ Tapas
• Flamenco Show w/ Drink

Find other theatre shows as well as comedy shows here .

4. Enjoy a Major Concert

Barcelona attracts some of the most talented musicians in the world, some of whom are visiting in December.

It also has local musicians who are sure to put on a great show for visitors.

• Buzzc ocks | December 1st
• Greta Van Fleet | December 3rd
• BABYMETAL | December 10th

Music Festivals

• Barcelona International Jazz Festival | October 16-December 27th | various locations

Click here to see even more concerts in Barcelona .

And if you’re looking for other ways to spend an evening in the city, take a look at our full post on nighttime activities in Barcelona . 

5. Celebrate Christmas at a Market

Christmas is just around the corner, so Christmas Markets will soon start popping up in Barcelona in late November and early December.

In addition to Christmas lighting and decor, you might find nativity scenes, Ferris wheels, ice skating, and market stalls that sell winter snacks such as hot chocolate and roasted chestnuts.

A few of the more popular markets include:

• Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família
• Fira de Santa Llúcia
• Fira de Nadal del Port Vell
• Fira de Reis

For even more markets, read this post covering  all of the Christmas Markets in Barcelona .

6. Take a Paella Cooking Class

Paella was traditionally the food of farmers, made with rice and whatever else could be pulled together.

Over time, the paella recipe has developed, becoming one of the most popular dishes in the country (and the world, actually).

If you'd like to learn how to cook a traditional seafood version,  classes can be found in Barcelona .

In fact, you will go along to buy ingredients at La Boqueria with the chef, tasting tapas along the way, before your paella-making workshop. It's truly a tasty activity!

Of course, you can always find Paella and other delicious foods in restaurants throughout Barcelona.

7. Enjoy Holiday Foods

Speaking of food, you won't want to miss some of the festive or seasonal foods that can be found this time of year.

Many restaurants will be offering these delicious dishes, so be sure to give them a try.

Canelons | Typically eaten on Boxing Day, it's thick pasta filled with meat, fish, or veggies, and covered with béchamel sauce and melted cheese.

Escudella i Carn D'Olla | a soup/stew that has pasta, meat, and vegetables and is flavored with garlic, thyme, parsley, saffron, salt, and pepper.

Turron | is a sweet made with ground or whole almonds, sugar, honey, and egg.

Rostit de Nadal | a traditional slow-cooked Christmas roast with plums, onions, pine nuts, garlic, and a touch of cinnamon.

Tronc de Nadal | a yule log cake served during Christmas dinner

8. Visit Game of Thrones Filming Locations

Winter is coming, and there's no better time to see some of the locations where Game of Thrones was actually filmed.

Catalonia, just around 1-2 hours outside of Barcelona, was the site of many notable sets in the hit HBO show.

You'll experience the medieval walls of the city and a variety of other sites tied to the Game of Thrones series.

There are a number of different tours you can take that will transport you to and from Catalonia to see these filming locations.

Find tickets here .

9. Save More with a Tourist Attraction Concession Pass

Save yourself more time and money as you explore Barcelona by purchasing a concession pass .

These passes bundle admission tickets to give you savings of up to 50% on regular retail pricing.

Attractions Available for Concession Include:

• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour
• Barcelona Bike Tour
• Camp Nou Tour
• Barcelona Zoo
• L’Aquarium Barcelona
• Picasso Museum
• Park Guell’s Monumental Zone
• Montserrat Morning Tour
• Hard Rock Cafe

If you’re really looking to maximize the time you have in Barcelona, using a tourist pass is the best way to do that.

See our Barcelona Tourist Pass comparison here .

10. Celebrate New Year’s Eve

As with many other major cities, Barcelona puts on a stunning fireworks display at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve. 

You'll find live music, performers, and human tower displays in Placa Espanya by the Magic Fountain. and, of course, amazing fireworks!

There will be plenty of clubs, restaurants, and bars that will be having parties and special menus.

INSIDER TIP : You can take part in an interesting Spanish New Year’s Eve tradition by attempting to eat 12 grapes during the last 12 seconds of the year.

At 1 grape per second, it is a bit more difficult than it sounds.

11. See the City From Above

One of the most noteworthy sites in Barcelona is Montjuïc Castle which sits at the top of a hill in the middle of the city.

If you take the Montjuïc Cable Car to the top, you can enjoy the views as you rise to the top and then get an even better view from the castle itself!

This is the main way to reach the summit, and it's also a great way to experience the landmarks and historic attractions around the city as you ascend the hill.

Note: If you’re planning to visit multiple museums or notable locations, the Barcelona Card is a great option.

RELATED POSTS:

• W eather in December .
• Tourist Attraction Concession Passes
• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tours

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Stephen Pickhardt

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.