logo

Visiting Barcelona in December

Great weather, catalan christmas fun and fewer tourists….

Barcelona Life

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

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Take a Christmas Markets Tour!

best places to visit in barcelona in december

2. Learn How to Cook Spanish Cuisine

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BOOK SPANISH COOKING CLASS

3. Enjoy a Flamenco Show

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BOOK FLAMENCO TICKETS

4. Visit Gaudi’s Casa Mila at Night

best places to visit in barcelona in december

CASA MILA NIGHT TICKETS

5. Get Festive with Cava!

best places to visit in barcelona in december

CREATE YOUR OWN CAVA!

6. Catch a Football Match

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BUY BARÇA TICKETS

7. Camp Nou Experience

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BUY CAMP NOU EXPERIENCE TICKETS

8. Joan Miro Foundation

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BUY JOAN MIRO TICKETS

9. Explore the Rest of Montjuic

best places to visit in barcelona in december

EXPLORE MONTJUIC

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BOOK GAME OF THRONES GIRONA TOUR

11. Dali Museum in Figueres

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BOOK DALI DAY TOUR

12. Vic Medieval Fair

best places to visit in barcelona in december

13. Go Fishing on the Mediterranean

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BOOK FISHING CHARTER

14. Visit Park Guell

best places to visit in barcelona in december

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.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

BUY BARCELONA PASS

best places to visit in barcelona in december

15. Go Skiing in the Pyrenees

best places to visit in barcelona in december

GO SKIING NR. BARCELONA

16. Celebrate New Year’s Eve!

best places to visit in barcelona in december

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

About the Author

Duncan 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.

Stay in touch

Love Barcelona? Subscribe to our newsletter and we'll share our latest stories, events you shouldn't miss, deals, discounts and much more! It's free.

Check your inbox or spam folder to confirm your subscription.

We also share stories and events on Facebook .

  • Job Opportunities
  • Privacy, Legal and T&Cs

spain inspired sun logo

Barcelona in December (2024): Ultimate Guide To What To Do

December in Barcelona has a charm all its own, blending the city’s vibrant culture with a festive holiday spirit. The streets light up with twinkling lights, and there’s a sense of anticipation for the coming celebrations.

I live in Spain and have experienced several Decembers in Barcelona, each time finding new ways the city comes alive during this special month.

So, what’s it like to visit Barcelona in December? From cozy Christmas markets to lively New Year’s Eve parties, and even the more peaceful moments that the winter brings, spending this month here offers a mix of excitement and tranquility.

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

Is December a Good Time to Visit Barcelona?

Yes, December is a good time to visit Barcelona. While the weather may be cooler than in the summer months, one of the biggest advantages of visiting Barcelona in December is the lack of crowds. This lets you enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, with shorter lines and fewer tourists.

The summer months here can be incredibly busy, with long lines at popular attractions and crowded beaches so unless you really crave the heat, avoiding that craziness can make for a much better trip.

And while, of course, the weather may be cooler in December , when you look at Barcelona’s weather for each month , you’ll see that it’s still mild compared to many other parts of Europe. Bring layers and a jacket to stay comfortable, and you’ll be able to enjoy all that Barcelona has to offer during the holiday season.

It also means that  you’ll have no issue weather-wise doing the outdoor activities that visitors love to do in Barcelona  all year round. Sure, it will definitely be fresher outside than earlier in the year, but it’s more than fine to walk around the city or even stop at a terrace for some tapas or a drink.

New Year's Eve fireworks over the Magic Fountain as an example of what to do in Barcelona in November with weather that's cooler

Plus, the city is decorated with festive lights and decorations , making it a magical time to visit! In fact, the Christmas lights are turned on during November in Barcelona , so whenever you come in December, the city will be fully lit up ready for your trip!

Another advantage of visiting Barcelona in December is the many holiday events and activities . The city is known for its Christmas markets, where you can find unique gifts and delicious food. There are also many concerts, shows, and other cultural events happening throughout the month. 

And of course, you can’t miss the famous New Year’s Eve celebration in Plaça d’Espanya , where you can watch the fireworks and enjoy live music.

Christmas lights in Barcelona in December

Best Things to Do in Barcelona in December

Barcelona, the vibrant and bustling capital of Catalonia, is a dream destination for many throughout the year. 

But, there’s something truly magical about visiting Barcelona in December. The city comes alive with festive lights, charming markets, and plenty of unforgettable experiences to enjoy during the holiday season. 

Let’s dive into the best things to do in Barcelona in December!

Christmas Markets

No visit to Barcelona in December would be complete without exploring the city’s enchanting Christmas markets. 

The most famous ones are unquestionably the markets located at the Barcelona Cathedral ( Fira de Santa Llúcia ) and the Sagrada Familia ( Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família ). These markets are brimming with unique gifts, delicious food, and festive decorations. 

Christmas market in Barcelona in December

Make sure to keep an eye out for the quirky Catalan traditions of caganers and caga tios. Caganers are small figurines, often hidden in nativity scenes, depicting people in the act of defecating, while caga tios are wooden logs with painted faces, which “poop” out small treats when beaten with sticks. 

Yep, they’re pretty weird, there’s no two ways about it. But they’re also completely normal in Catalonia and are sure to make your Christmas market experience all the more memorable!

Sagrada Familia

No trip to Barcelona is complete without visiting the awe-inspiring Sagrada Familia . Designed by the famous architect Antoni Gaudí, this architectural masterpiece is truly breathtaking, especially when lit up during December evenings. 

Take a guided tour to learn about the history and symbolism behind this iconic landmark, and make sure to climb one of the towers for a stunning panoramic view of the city.

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.

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 .

New Year’s Eve

Ring in the New Year in style in Barcelona! The city’s celebrations are known for their festive atmosphere, with fireworks, live music, and revelers filling the streets. 

Don’t miss the spectacular light show at the Magic Fountain and the big club night out at Poble Espanyol. Barcelona’s New Year’s Eve celebrations are an experience you won’t want to miss!

Visiting the Pyrenees (Three Countries in One Day)

Visiting the Pyrenees in December 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!)

Snowy mountains in Andorra near Barcelona in December

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.

Another Gaudí masterpiece, Park Güell is a beautiful and whimsical park that offers a perfect escape from the bustling city. Wander through the colorful mosaic terraces, lush gardens, and winding pathways while admiring the incredible views of Barcelona.

This park is a fantastic spot for a leisurely stroll or a romantic picnic, making it an essential stop during your December visit.

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 .

Fira de Reis (Kings’ Fair)

The Fira de Reis , or Kings’ Fair, is another must-visit market in Barcelona. These tend to open in mid-December in preparation for celebrating the arrival of the Three Kings in January in Barcelona and offer a great opportunity to pick up last-minute gifts or indulge in delicious Spanish treats. 

The vibrant atmosphere, lively entertainment, and cheerful spirit make this fair a memorable event during your December visit.

Fira de Reis in Barcelona in December

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter, or Barri Gòtic, is the heart of Barcelona’s old city. With its narrow cobblestone streets, medieval architecture, and charming squares, this historic neighborhood is the perfect place to wander and soak up the atmosphere. 

The area is adorned with twinkling lights and festive decorations in December, adding an extra touch of magic to your explorations. Stop by one of the many cozy cafés for a cup of hot chocolate or a glass of cava to warm up during your walk.

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.

Festa Major de Sant Andreu de Palomar

December in Barcelona shines with the Festa Major de Sant Andreu de Palomar , where tradition and community spirit light up one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. This festival brings together the best of Catalan culture, while the streets come to life with music, from folk to contemporary, alongside artisans and vendors offering local crafts and flavors.

Workshops and cultural displays dive into the local heritage, making it a great spot for anyone keen to experience authentic Catalan festivities. It’s a vibrant celebration of community pride, welcoming everyone to join in the festivities and experience the warm spirit of Barcelona in December.

World Press Photo Exhibition

Early December also features the World Press Photo Exhibition at the CCCB , displaying impactful press photographs from around the globe. This exhibition provides a profound look into current events, human stories, and natural wonders through powerful imagery.

It’s an opportunity to engage with the stories that shape our world, presented through the work of leading photojournalists. A thought-provoking visit for anyone interested in the power of visual storytelling.

Ice Skating

December in Barcelona offers a unique winter treat – ice skating at Plaça de Catalunya . This bustling square transforms into a magical winter wonderland, complete with a large ice rink that welcomes skaters of all ages and skill levels.

Surrounded by the city’s festive decorations and lights, the ice rink becomes a focal point of holiday cheer in Barcelona. Whether you’re gliding across the ice with ease or taking your first tentative steps, it’s a perfect way to enjoy the holiday season, offering a fun break from shopping and sightseeing.

(And after your skating session, you can warm up with hot chocolate or explore the nearby Christmas markets!)

Barcelona Food Tour

Barcelona is a food lover’s paradise, and there’s no better way to explore the city’s culinary scene than by joining a food tour . 

These guided tours take you to the best tapas bars, markets, and specialty shops, where you can sample traditional Spanish and Catalan dishes. In December, you’ll also have the chance to taste festive treats and seasonal delicacies that are sure to take your trip to the next level.

MY PICK: My favorite food tour in Barcelona is this Tapas Walking Tour with Food, Wine and History – 1,000+ reviews with an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 can’t be wrong!

But if you want something to take your Barcelona food experience to the next level, check out this Paella Cooking Experience and Boqueria Market Tour . It’s a great way to learn (under the guidance of a professional chef) while getting to enjoy what you make at the end!

Medieval Market in Vic

For a great day trip from Barcelona, consider visiting the Medieval Market in Vic . This annual event transports you back in time with its medieval-themed stalls, costumed performers, and live music. 

Browse the market for handmade crafts, sample traditional food, and immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere. This day trip offers a unique experience you won’t soon forget!

Casa Batlló

Casa Batlló is another Gaudí creation that you can’t miss in Barcelona. This stunning building, with its colorful façade and undulating balconies, is a true work of art. 

Take a guided tour to learn about the history and architectural details of this modernist masterpiece, and enjoy the beautiful Christmas decorations that adorn the building during December.

Casa Batllo in Barcelona in December

Casa Mila (La Pedrera)

Casa Mila , also known as La Pedrera, is yet another Gaudí gem. This striking building features a unique, wavy stone façade and intricate iron balconies. 

In December, the building comes alive with festive lights and decorations, making it an even more enchanting sight. Don’t forget to visit the rooftop terrace for breathtaking views and an up-close look at Gaudí’s imaginative chimneys.

Museu Picasso de Barcelona

Art enthusiasts will love the Museu Picasso de Barcelona , which houses one of the most extensive collections of Pablo Picasso’s works. Discover the famous artist’s early years and his deep connection to the city of Barcelona as you explore this impressive museum. 

Visiting during December allows you to enjoy the museum without the usual crowds (and, let’s be honest, escape the chill outside), providing a more intimate experience with Picasso’s masterpieces.

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.

El Dia dels Sants Innocents

December in Barcelona brings a unique tradition known as “El Dia dels Sants Innocents,” celebrated on December 28th. It’s Spain’s equivalent of April Fools’ Day, where pranks and hoaxes are the order of the day.

From fake newspaper headlines to small surprises hidden in everyday objects, it’s a fun day to be here. So if your favorite tourist sight looks a bit different today (bubbles in the Magic Fountain, anyone?), you’ll know why.

Cursa dels Nassos

Fancy starting your New Year’s Eve with an adrenaline rush? Join in the annual  Cursa dels Nassos , a 10k race held every year on December 31st.

The “Race of the Noses” (love the name, by the way) begins at 5:15 pm, just in time to get your heart pumping before the party begins. It’s a scenic route around Poble Nou, along the seafront, down to the stunning Ciutadella Park and back through the lively Poble Nou neighborhood.

The registration fee is around €20, and you can sign up on their website before December 21st. So remember to pack your running shoes along with your party clothes!

Manga Barcelona

In December, Barcelona welcomes all manga and anime enthusiasts to Manga Barcelona , a festival celebrating Japanese pop culture. This event is a real treat for fans of manga, anime, and cosplay, making it the perfect way to cap off the year.

Manga Barcelona offers a huge range of activities, from cosplay competitions to panel discussions with industry experts. You can explore the world of manga through exhibitions, purchase rare collectibles, and even meet your favorite artists and voice actors.

December sees the arrival of Festivalet , a great artisan market that’s perfect for holiday shopping and soaking up the festive spirit. This event gathers local artisans, designers, and crafters who showcase their unique creations, making it an ideal place to find one-of-a-kind gifts.

Festivalet offers a cozy and welcoming atmosphere where you can browse through a diverse array of handmade goods. From jewelry and clothing to home decor and delicious treats, there’s something to cater to everyone’s tastes.

What sets Festivalet apart is the opportunity to meet the artisans behind the products, hear their stories, and even participate in DIY workshops. Whether you’re looking for distinctive holiday gifts or simply want to revel in the festive ambiance, Festivalet is a must-visit event in Barcelona during December.

Untasted Cheese Fest

Cheese fans, this one’s for you, as the Untasted Cheese Fest arrives in Barcelona in early December. This amazingly delicious festival showcases a variety of artisanal cheeses, both local and international, offering a chance to explore unique flavors and textures.

What makes this event special is the opportunity to connect with passionate cheese makers and experts, attend workshops, and learn about cheese pairings (ok, and sure, the samples are pretty great too). Whether you’re a cheese pro or simply curious, the Untasted Cheese Fest is worth a visit.

Passeig de Gracia

Passeig de Gracia is one of Barcelona’s most elegant boulevards, lined with upscale shops, exquisite modernist buildings, and chic restaurants. 

During December, the street is illuminated with festive lights, making it the perfect place for a leisurely stroll or some holiday shopping. Don’t forget to admire the architectural marvels along the way, such as Casa Batlló and Casa Mila.

Passeig de Gracia in Barcelona in December

Fundació Joan Miró

The Fundació Joan Miró is dedicated to the works of the renowned Catalan artist Joan Miró. This modern art museum showcases a wide range of Miró’s paintings, sculptures, and drawings, as well as temporary exhibitions from other contemporary artists.

Located on Montjuïc hill, the museum offers stunning views of Barcelona, making it an ideal spot to visit during your December trip.

Fundacio Joan Miro in Barcelona in December

Weather in December in Barcelona

While December is one of the coldest months of the year in Barcelona, the weather is still pleasant enough to enjoy outdoor activities. The average high temperature during the day is around 14°C (57°F), while the average low temperature at night is around 5°C (41°F).

Plus, with only three days of rain on average, you can enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere without worrying about getting wet.

That said, it basically never snows in Barcelona in December (or ever – at least not in the city center) so if you’re looking to go to a winter wonderland for your Christmas vacation, the mild weather here may not be what you actually want.

In any case, it’s important to note that the weather in Barcelona can be unpredictable, so it’s always a good idea to pack a variety of clothing options. Layering is key, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day. 

What to Wear in Barcelona in December

If you’re visiting Barcelona in December, you’ll want to pack some warm clothes. While the city is relatively mild compared to many Northern European cities, it can still get chilly during the winter months. Here are some tips on what to wear in Barcelona in December.

The key to staying warm in Barcelona in December is to layer up. Start with a base layer, such as a long-sleeved shirt or thermal top, and then add a sweater or cardigan. 

You’ll also want to bring a warm coat or jacket, as well as a scarf, hat, and maybe even gloves. Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be doing a lot of walking around the city.

Of course, if you’re planning on going out to dinner or to a show, feel free to dress up a bit. But for daytime activities, such as sightseeing or visiting museums, casual wear is fine. Just make sure you’re comfortable and can move around easily.

Travel tips for December in Barcelona

Dress in layers.

In December, Barcelona’s weather can be quite unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from chilly mornings to milder afternoons. To stay comfortable during your sightseeing, dress in layers. 

Wear a warm sweater or fleece, along with a light, waterproof jacket that can be easily removed as the day warms up. Don’t forget to pack a scarf, gloves, and a hat for those cooler days and nights.

Book Your Accommodation Early

Barcelona is a popular destination all year round, and December is no exception. To secure the best deals and ensure availability, book your accommodation well in advance. 

This will give you the opportunity to choose from a wider range of options, whether you prefer a cozy boutique hotel, a budget-friendly hostel, or a luxurious apartment rental.

a view of Barcelona in December

Take Advantage of Fewer Crowds

December is an excellent time to visit Barcelona’s most popular attractions, as the city tends to be less crowded compared to the peak summer months. Take advantage of this by planning visits to iconic landmarks like the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell, and the Picasso Museum. 

Remember that some attractions may have reduced hours or may be closed on certain days during the holiday season, so be sure to check ahead and plan accordingly.

Experience Local Holiday Traditions

Embrace the local holiday spirit by participating in some of Barcelona’s unique traditions. Attend a Christmas concert at the stunning Palau de la Música Catalana, watch the Three Kings Parade in early January, or take part in the festive atmosphere at one of the many Christmas markets. 

By immersing yourself in the local customs, you’ll create unforgettable memories and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich culture.

Indulge in Seasonal Cuisine

During your December visit, don’t miss the opportunity to taste some of the seasonal dishes that are more typical during the winter months. 

Sample traditional treats like turron (a sweet nougat), polvorones (crumbly almond cookies), and escudella i carn d’olla (a hearty meat and vegetable stew). Make a reservation at a local restaurant or join a food tour to discover the best spots for indulging in these delicious seasonal specialties.

polvorones in a plate

Why Shouldn’t You Travel to Barcelona in December?

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona, you might be wondering whether December is a good time to visit. While Barcelona is a great destination year-round, there are a few reasons why you might want to avoid visiting in December.

1. The Weather

While Barcelona is one of the warmer cities in Europe, December is still considered winter.

The temperatures can drop to around 9°C (48°F) at night, and only reach around 15°C (59°F) during the day. It can also be quite rainy, with an average of 3 days of rain during the month. 

So if you’re looking for a warm and sunny Spanish beach vacation, December might not be the best time to visit Barcelona.

It may sound funny putting this as a negative right after mentioning the lack of heat being a potential downside, but it’s true that many people travel over the holidays in search of that European winter wonderland.

Unfortunately, as mentioned a bit earlier, you’re not going to find it here. Barcelona doesn’t really get snow, so it’s not going to be that kind of Christmas scene.

That said, there are plenty of other places around Spain (and in nearby Andorra) that get tons of snow, so you could always combine a trip to Barcelona with a visit to a snowier corner of the country.

street Christmas lights in Barcelona in December

3. Limited Opening Hours

Many shops, restaurants, and attractions in Barcelona have limited opening hours during the month of December. This is especially true on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day. 

This means that if you’re planning to visit Barcelona during this time, make sure to check the opening hours of the places you want to visit in advance. You might need to adjust your itinerary to make sure you can see everything you want to see.

Can You Swim at the Beach in Barcelona in December?

While the weather in Barcelona in December is mild, it’s not warm enough for swimming in the sea. The average temperature during the day is around 14°C/54°F, and at night, it can drop to 6°C/43°F. The sea temperature is around 14°C/57°F, which is too cold for most people to swim comfortably. 

However, you can still enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach or sit on the sand and enjoy the view.

Does It Rain in Barcelona in December?

December only sees about 6 rainy days on average in Barcelona, and the total rainfall for the month is around 28mm, which is below average. However, occasional rain is still possible, so it’s a good idea to bring a raincoat or umbrella just in case.

Christmas decoration in Barcelona in December

Is It Hot in Barcelona in December?

Barcelona in December is not hot, but it’s not freezing either. The average temperature during the day is around 14°C/54°F, and at night, it can drop to 6°C/43°F. You’ll need to wear warm clothes, especially in the evenings, but you won’t need heavy winter coats or boots.

Is It Cold in Barcelona in December?

Barcelona in December is not as cold as other European cities, but it’s still chilly. The average temperature during the day is around 14°C/54°F, and at night, it can drop to 6°C/43°F. You’ll need to wear warm clothes, especially in the evenings, but you won’t need heavy winter coats or boots.

Is Barcelona Windy in December?

Barcelona can be windy at any time of year, but it’s not particularly windy in December. The average wind speed is around 10 km/h, which is relatively calm. However, occasional gusts of wind are possible, so it’s a good idea to bring a light jacket or sweater to protect yourself from the wind.

' src=

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!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Local Travel Experts

Secure Payment Options

Electronic Tickets - No Need to Print

  • Groups & MICE

BCN.travel

Barcelona in December – Weather, Reasons to Visit, Things to See & Do, and More!

' src=

Get ready for the holidays in Barcelona!

Barcelona is a beautiful city that’s perfect for those wanting to experience the winter holiday season. With its cool buildings and brilliant Christmas lights, a visit will put you in the spirit of holidays, especially when you need it most. The food, culture and people are all waiting to welcome you with open arms.

What more could you want? Great cities don’t just come around every day! And Barcelona in December is no exception as it offers visitors an enchanting holiday experience unlike any other. So, pack your bags, get on a plane, and get ready because we’ve got everything you need to know about visiting this historic city!

Barcelona in December: Practical Tips

Better prices (more discounts and promotions), christmas lights in barcelona, visit museums and historic sites, wine up have fun and drink more, did you know, exploring the magic of barcelona in december.

Barcelona in December, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and stunning architecture, transforms into a winter wonderland. This month offers a unique experience, blending festive joy with the city’s rich historical essence. From the Gothic Quarter’s medieval charm to the modernist marvels of Antoni Gaudí, December in Barcelona is a time of celebration, reflection, and architectural wonder.

The Gothic Quarter: A Medieval Wonderland in Barcelona in December

Strolling through the Gothic Quarter in Barcelona in December is like walking into a medieval fairytale. The narrow, winding streets of Barcelona in December are adorned with festive decorations, leading you to the iconic Barcelona Cathedral. This area, steeped in history, exudes a magical atmosphere during the winter month, making it a must-visit for anyone in Barcelona in December.

Festive Markets and Celebrations in Barcelona in December: Christmas and New Year’s Eve

Barcelona in December’s Christmas market scene is vibrant and lively. The markets, such as the one near the Barcelona Cathedral, offer an array of festive goods, from traditional Catalan Christmas decorations to handcrafted gifts. Not to be missed is the unique Catalan tradition of ‘Caga Tió,’ a whimsical part of the local Christmas celebration in Barcelona in December.

As December progresses in Barcelona, the city gears up for New Year’s Eve. The streets, especially around Plaça Catalunya and Las Ramblas, come alive with music, dance, and fireworks in Barcelona in December, offering a spectacular welcome to the new year. The Barcelona weather in December, typically marked by clear skies and mild daytime temperatures, adds to the enjoyment of these outdoor festivities. However, it’s wise to carry warm clothes for the cooler evenings in Barcelona in December.

Gaudí’s Architectural Splendors in December Light in Barcelona

December is perhaps the best time to explore the architectural masterpieces of Antoni Gaudí in Barcelona. Park Güell, with its whimsical designs and panoramic views of the city, is especially enchanting under the clear winter sky of Barcelona in December. Casa Batlló and Casa Mila, dressed in their festive best in Barcelona in December, offer a glimpse into Gaudí’s unique vision, further enriching the Barcelona experience in December.

Barcelona’s Sporting and Cultural Highlights in December

For sports enthusiasts, a visit to Camp Nou in Barcelona in December, home to FC Barcelona, is a thrilling experience. The stadium has a special ambiance in early December, buzzing with excitement and energy in Barcelona.

Culturally, Barcelona doesn’t slow down in December. El Born and Santa Maria del Mar are hubs for local arts and crafts in Barcelona in December, perfect for finding unique Christmas gifts. The nativity scene, a key part of Barcelona’s Christmas tradition in December, is displayed in various locations, including the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Sant Jaume.

To make the most of your December visit in Barcelona, consider getting the Barcelona Card, which offers free public transport and discounts at major attractions. Also, remember that Christmas Day and Sant Esteve (December 26) are public holidays in Barcelona, and many shops and restaurants may be closed in Barcelona in December.

Barcelona in December is a blend of festive cheer, historical exploration, and architectural admiration. Whether you’re wandering through the Gothic Quarter, experiencing the lively Christmas markets, or admiring Gaudí’s creations, Barcelona in this winter month offers an unforgettable experience. With merry Christmas spirits in the air and a lineup of cultural festivities, Barcelona in December is truly a celebration of the city’s heart and soul.

December Weather in Barcelona

December Weather In Barcelona

One thing to consider is the amount of precipitation. In December, rainfall tends to be around 28 mm, making for a slightly below-average amount of precipitation. However, you can expect this number to be even higher during January and February.

Winter brings on occasional rain, but they are not extreme by any means. 

Here are average temperatures found in each month from November through January:

  • November: 14C/57.2F
  • December: 14C/57.2F
  • January: 13/55.4F

Reasons to Visit Barcelona in December

Traveling to Barcelona in December is usually associated with the sun, sand, sangrias, and a few things in between. Yes, summer by the Mediterranean is something special. 

But Barcelona in December is way more than that. Actually, for many, traveling to Barcelona in December is also very interesting in winter, when the attractions aren’t so crowded, and the tickets and fees don’t cost that much. 

Also, compared to other European cities, Barcelona’s temperature in December doesn’t go and stays very low, so winter can still be super pleasant for outdoor activities.

Wonderful Weather

December is a good time to organize a trip to Barcelona, as it offers visitors the chance to witness some of the most enchanting sights this historic city has to offer. While still colder than most people are used to, the weather is not so extreme that outdoor activities like visiting museums or Barcelona’s parks and beaches are off-limits. 

With fewer tourists in December, it only means reduced prices on everything from attractions to hotels in Barcelona. Finally, Christmas lights and holiday events like ice skating make December one of the best times of year for families who want both peace and excitement in Barcelona!

Delicious Food

Barcelona is one of the most diverse cities when it comes to its cuisine. The melting pots of Spanish and Mediterranean influences have made this city a world-class feast for the mouth! Foodies can find themselves in culinary heaven during the holiday season because some seasonal dishes are already on the menu!

Mediterranean Cuisine

Sightseeing At Its Best

December presents a beautiful, quiet time to explore Barcelona’s iconic sights. Festivals like Fira de Santa Llúcia and Els Pastorets are happening in December, but most of the tourist attractions aren’t as crowded as in summer. This is one of the best times to explore Barcelona in winter, where you can enjoy some peace and still have amazing experiences!

Exciting Christmas and New Year

Christmas in Barcelona is a sight to behold. The streets are filled with people. There are chains of Santas from all around Catalonia on their way to the Cathedral of Santa Maria. Christmas decorations line the streets, and the shops and marketplaces are all decorated as well. They have also added an element of traditional Catalan culture by parading performers through the streets dressed in Liceu, Fustiana, or Andalusian dancewear and music from the Renaissance era.

Parade of the Three Kings

The Three Kings Parade is a nighttime parade celebrating the three wise kings who visited baby Jesus after his birth. It’s customary for children to dress up in costumes and follow the procession around the city streets, singing songs and scattering rosemary so that “doors and windows would smell sweet.”

The nighttime parade is traditionally composed of people carrying lanterns, including those bearing gigantic figures of one or more kings on the top. These “kings” wear tall hats that are often illuminated with small lightbulbs inside, and are worth watching, especially if your little ones are with you. 

December is a great time to shop in Barcelona. Cheaper than other seasons, there are also more discounts and promotions to be found! For example, the shopping center of La Rambles opens on December 23rd and stays open until January 2nd. That’s three whole weeks of shopping for those looking for some holiday cheer! In addition, the shops here stay open late into the night all week long so you will never have a problem finding what you’re looking for during your trip.

Shopping Center Of La Rambles

December in Barcelona Offers Free Activities

Enjoy the ajuntament in barcelona in december.

The Ajuntament is a theater that opened in the year 1895 and was originally known as the “Casa Lliure,” which means free house. During wintertime, there are plenty of shows that happen at the Ajuntament with shopping specials happening during the daytime, so many take advantage of discounts for these performances! 

In December, the Ajuntament is screening films all night long and offers free admission, where you can enjoy screenings of films outdoors with a spectacular 360-degree view of the Barcelona nightscape.

Ajuntament Theater

Diada de Tradicions in the Cathedral of Barcelona in December

The Diada de Tradicios in the Cathedral of Barcelona is a cultural and historical event that commemorates the day that La Catedral de Barcelona was consecrated. For centuries, the tradition has been going on from November 30th to December 2nd, with an 8 PM mass held on December 1st. For this special occasion, you can attend with your family or friends at the entrance of La Catedral de Barcelona (Carrer Montcada) from November 30th to December 2nd, 8 PM. You’re really lucky if they are giving away free fried doughnuts!

Christmas is coming, and the same goes for Christmas lights in Barcelona. There’s nothing like walking through this magical city, admiring the lights, and getting lost in its beauty. One of the things that I love about traveling here is that you have to escape from reality for a moment, especially during this season of joy!

Christmas Enlightenments

Things to See and Do in Barcelona During Winter

Christmas is a unique and magical time of the year. In Barcelona, although not as widely celebrated as in other places like Paris, Christmas has its flavor. The city offers so many things to do during the holiday season that it’s hard for anyone to not be able to find something they love! Here are some things you can do in Barcelona during the holiday season:

Enjoy the Ice Rink

Ice Rink In Barcelona 1

The ice rink in Barcelona is fun and exciting. You can do many things at the ice rink – you can skate with friends, skate by yourself, or even try curling! It’s a really fun thing to do in Barcelona and the perfect way to spend a day, especially if it’s raining outside and you’re looking for some fun indoor activity. 

  • Prices:  EURO15- EURO20
  • Location:  C/Arístides Mallol 12 (main Access 15) and Av. De Joan XVIII ( Boulevard Access 9), 08028 Barcelona
  • Time:   Monday and Thursday at 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. Friday at 10:00 AM-2:00 PM. Saturday, Sunday, and Holidays at 11:00 AM-2:00 PM

Experience Harbour Swim

The harbor swim is the perfect activity to do during the winter season in Barcelona. It’s a sport that is practiced year-round, but this is a great opportunity to experience it for yourself for those who are visiting. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, wear your birthday suit!

Parco de la Bonanova

For those who love Christmas trees like me, I recommend taking a walk through the park and admiring the beautiful tree lighting and taking pictures of all of them! There are also many events happening at Parco de la Bonanova during December, including live music and theatre performances. 

Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia

The Christmas Festival of the Sagrada Familia is a week-long event centered around the most spectacular place to visit at this time of year: La Sagrada Familia. The festival includes live music and dance performances, different kinds of crafts, and, as a bonus for any visitors arriving from afar, sometimes they are offering free transportation for those who come on December 24th or 25th.”

Get a Taste of Every Barcelona Cuisine

Make sure to try all the different cuisines in Barcelona. One of the most popular, authentic, and delicious Catalan dishes is a plate of tapas.

 Moreover, a traditional Catalan preparation consists of roasted or fried red peppers, olives, and anchovies. All these ingredients are served atop a small mini-flatbread or oatcake that is dipped in olive oil before being popped into one’s mouth.

Tapas Barcelona

Museums are a great way to spend time with family and friends during the holidays. If you’re searching for a new experience that will make you feel like you’re traveling in time, visit the Museum Marítim! This museum is different than others because it has an incredible setting. It’s not a familiar tourist spot, but ask a locale away, and they’ll show you the way to Barcelona’s port. I highly recommend going as soon as possible before everything closes for Christmas!

Three Kings Parade

This event, which was initially held in the 16th century when it was founded as an act of resistance against the mistreatment of Sant Jordi, is now a big annual parade that takes place on Epiphany. It’s a traditional celebration and Barcelona’s most popular festivity.

This festive ceremony starts with a beautiful display of fireworks and ends with three ladies dressed in green carrying a statue of baby Jesus at the top. Fireworks and lots of fun follow this! The event is usually considered to follow Spain’s Christmas traditions perfectly!

Countdown to New Year’s Eve with the Locales

In Barcelona, there are a lot of celebrations that take place at this time of the year. One of the most popular celebrations is New Year’s Eve. The city has created some very innovative and fun activities for people to enjoy during this celebration.

Countdown To New Years Eve

For those who don’t mind being surrounded by large crowds, I suggest going to one of Barcelona’s most famous squares: Plaza de Catalunya and Plaza Reial, where they have also held events. There you’ll be able to find food like boiled noodles with tomato sauce or potato pancakes in addition to watching fireworks up close!

For those who want something more intimate, I would recommend going to Plaça Sant Jaume, there is less crowd, and it also has live music.

Barcelona is neighbors with the two best wine regions: The Penedès and the Priorat. Although a lot of people choose to travel to Barcelona in summer, winter is when good wines make sense. What’s a greater way to relax than a fireplace for a cold day & great wine tasting in the countryside? Just choose your favorite Spanish trails for a wine tour, or come with us in a wine-extended getaway!

“In all honesty, there’s no doubt in visiting Barcelona in December! The weather and activities are perfect. There are different ways to explore the city that won’t make you go crazy. There is also a unique variety of places to visit and things to try.” “You know what they say: do as the locals do!”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Yes, Christmas is celebrated in Barcelona with various events and traditions, including Christmas markets (Fira de Santa Llúcia), the lighting of the Christmas tree in Plaça Catalunya, and the arrival of the Three Wise Men (Los Reyes Magos) on January 5th.

Most shops and attractions in Barcelona remain open in December, but some may have reduced hours on holidays, so it’s best to check in advance.

Yes, the Fira de Santa Llúcia is a popular Christmas market held near the Cathedral of Barcelona, featuring festive decorations, nativity scenes, and traditional Catalan gifts.

While December is less crowded than the summer months, it’s advisable to book accommodations in advance, especially if you plan to visit during the holiday season.

Yes, you can still take day trips to nearby destinations like Montserrat, Sitges, and Tarragona, as they are accessible year-round.

A fun fact about traveling to Barcelona in December is that the city is known for its creative and artistic approach to Christmas decorations. Barcelona takes its holiday illuminations to another level by incorporating designs that are not only festive but also uniquely artistic. Many of the city’s main streets, such as Passeig de Gràcia and La Rambla, are adorned with stunning and imaginative light displays that transform the streets into enchanting, illuminated corridors. These decorations often feature intricate and colorful designs that showcase Barcelona’s commitment to blending art and celebration during the holiday season. So, when you visit Barcelona in December, you’ll not only experience the festive spirit of Christmas but also be treated to a visual feast of artistic and creative holiday decorations that make the city even more magical during this time of year.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

YOUR TOTAL POINTS 0

The people of Barcelona have fun on Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, and Epiphany. In addition, the city has an adrenaline-fueled celebration for New Year’s Eve – La nit lla. So, what does that mean for you? It means you should join them!

Here are interesting travel guides to Barcelona that will help you get the most out of your trip. Visit our website to read more articles sure to excite you.

  • Barcelona in August
  • Barcelona in September
  • Barcelona in October
  • Barcelona in November

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

ForeverBarcelona Private Tours White Logo

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 .

City view seen visiting Barcelona in December

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. 

Happy woman in December (Barcelona, Spain)

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!

Author Marta Laurent Veciana

RESEARCHING FOR A TRIP IS TIME-CONSUMING... Need more inspiration?

Detail of Casa Batllo rooftop

Our 100% FREE Barcelona Collection will give you everything you need to organize the trip of your lifetime to Barcelona.

BEST INSIDER TIPS FROM THE PROS!

Promo Image for Free Nights on Expedia

MORE BARCELONA TIPS FOR YOU:

Christmas market in Barcelona: Caganer figurines

SHARE WITH YOUR TRAVEL MATES

  • Privacy Overview
  • 3rd Party Cookies
  • Cookie Policy

ForeverBarcelona

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

More information about our Cookie Policy

  • explore europe in the cooler months
  • Privacy Policy

Sign up for Newsletter

Signup for our newsletter to get notified about sales and new products. Add any text here or remove it.

Europe in Winter

  • Northern Europe
  • Southern Europe
  • Western Europe
  • Eastern Europe

7 reasons to visit Barcelona in December (2023 guide)

Christmas Market in Barcelona

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?

BARCELONA, SPAIN - MAY 13, 2017: View of the Expiatory Temple of the Holy Family (Sagrada Familia) with a beautiful blue sky.

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

Christmas Market in Barcelona

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

Rows of Caga Tio, the Catalan Pooping Log, at a Christmas market.

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

Christmas lighting in a street of Barcelona.

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?

Cathedral of Barcelona, Catalonia

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

Park guell in Barcelona

  • 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. 

' src=

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.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Dave's Travel Pages

Greek Island Hopping | Greece Travel Ideas | Bicycle Touring

Things to do in Barcelona in December

There's plenty of things to do in Barcelona in December if you're planning a winter city break to this beautiful Spanish city.

A guide to visiting Barcelona in Spain in winter

Of course, visiting Barcelona in December might not be everyone's first choice of month to see the city, but hear me out!

Everything is still open, there are plenty of things to do in Barcelona, and far fewer tourists. Here's my guide on things to do in Barcelona in December.

Reasons To Visit Barcelona In December

Whether you are considering a city break, weekend away, or simply want to enjoy all that Barcelona has to offer, December is a good choice of month to visit.

Here's just a few of the reasons and places to visit in Barcelona in December.

1. There are fewer tourists in Barcelona in winter

In my opinion, one of the main reasons to visit Barcelona in December , is that there are far fewer tourists at that time of year. It makes seeing the sites, such as the Casa Batlló a lot easier and more relaxing.

The Gaudi Casa Batlló is one of the reasons to visit Barcelona in December

In true Dave style, I thoroughly enjoyed seeing this magnificent Gaudi masterpiece, one of the most famous landmarks in Europe , from across the road in the outdoor seated area of McDonald's!

2. December Hotel Deals in Barcelona

Barcelona is a happening place, but things do quieten down on the tourism front during the winter months. As such, December is a great time of year to pick up hotel deals in Barcelona.

Here's a few ideas to get you started:

3. Christmas Markets in Barcelona

You might normally associate Christmas markets with Northern European countries. In Barcelona in December though, a very nice Christmas Market is set up opposite Barcelona Cathedral .

The Christmas Market in Barcelona opposite the Cathedral

It had a nice festive feel, without feeling too commercial or in your face.

So, if you want to pick up some unique items for Christmas gifts, this is another of the reasons why visiting Barcelona in December might appeal.

Related: Christmas Captions for Instagram

4. The Boqueria Food Market

Talking of markets, The Boqueria Food Market in Barcelona is obviously a ‘must-see' at any time of year, but particularly in the winter months.

It is much quieter, and also seems to me to look a lot cooler at night in the winter. I loved the little Christmas tree outside!

The Boqueria Food Market in Barcelona

5. Walking La Rambla

Whatever your reasons for visiting Barcelona in December,  you have to take a stroll along La Rambla (Las Ramblas).

During the quieter winter months, the cafes may not be so full, but it is a lot easier to walk without the crowds! The side streets are also worth spending time wandering around.

The Gothic quarter in particular is worthy of exploration, and the houses there are very different to the design of other houses in Spain, especially those in the south, such as the Andalusian buildings in Seville.

Walking on La Rambla in Barcelona

6. Interesting Art Installations

I think Barcelona is the sort of city where there is always something going on. By just walking around, you will easily find something artistic, weird, or quirky.

During my time spent in Barcelona in December, I found all three combined into one! This art installation in a main square looked just like giant ‘snow-domes'. Inside, were various interpretations of Christmas Scenes.

An interesting art installation in Barcelona in December 2016

7. Christmas Lights

And finally, one of the best reasons to visit Barcelona in December is the winter lights! Taking a walk near the Casa Mila is amazing at night, with everywhere lit up.

Casa Mila in Barcelona

So, in conclusion, if you are looking for a European city to visit in the winter months, you should definitely consider Barcelona. In addition to its extensive sights and attractions, it feels more relaxed and chilled out at that time of year.

You might also like this guide to the warmest places in Europe in December .

Pin this guide to Places to visit in Barcelona in December

If you have a Pinterest board, please pin the image below. That way, you'll easily be able to find this Barcelona December guide for later!

Reasons to visit Barcelona in December. If you want to see this beautiful Spanish city without the tourist crowds, December is a great month to visit!

What to do in Barcelona in December FAQ

Not sure if you want to go to Barcelona during the Christmas season or New Year's Eve? These most commonly asked questions might help you decide if it is worth visiting Barcelona during December:

Is December a good time to visit Barcelona?

December is a great time to visit Barcelona to see a different side to this historic city. The milder Barcelona weather in December means you won't see much rain, and daytime temperatures are around 15 degrees so it's far easier to walk around and enjoy this fascinating city which will be adorned with Christmas decorations.

Is it warm in Barcelona in December?

Daytime temperatures of 15 degrees, and night time temperatures of 9 degrees make a December Barcelona trip a good idea for people wanting to escape the gloom of December in the UK!

Is it cold in Barcelona in December?

It is always a good idea to pack warm clothes when visiting Barcelona during the winter, but you may get away with just a light jacket visiting the Barcelona attractions in December.

Is Barcelona good at Christmas?

While Barcelona might not have the snow that more northern countries have during the winter months, enjoying the Christmas festivities in Barcelona is a great idea. You'll find Christmas holiday markets, lots of Christmas trees and Christmas decorations, and of course plenty of delicious Catalan food to keep you warm!

Related Barcelona and Spain posts

If you are staying in Barcelona for longer, you might be interested in these travel blog posts:

  • Guide to cycling in Catalonia
  • Outdoor activities along the Ebre River
  • Barcelona Instagram Captions
  • Spain Captions For Instagram

Hope you enjoyed the read. Are you planning a trip to Barcelona this winter? Please leave a comment below!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Barcelona Hacks

  • Get a Discount Pass
  • Buy My Digital Pass
  • Buy My Hola BCN Card
  • Book Paella at Bodega Joan
  • Book My Bus Turistic Ticket
  • See a flamenco show
  • Attractions Tickets
  • Itineraries
  • Digital Pass
  • Sagrada Familia
  • Barcelona Card
  • Restaurants
  • Casa Batllo
  • Hop on Hop off
  • Magic Fountain

Ash

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

tourists walking down las ramblas in december in barcelona

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?

tourist taking a photo of bishop's bridge in 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

best places to visit in barcelona in december

What to Do in Barcelona in December

caga tios for sale at a barcelona winter market

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.

sagrada familia view with water reflection in barcelona spain

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.

acorn ornaments at a barcelona christmas market

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.

a light projection on the chandelier at casa batllo winter nights visit

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 .

a tourist makes paella at a cooking workshop in barcelona

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.

purple flowers with the park guell entrance houses

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.

ice skaters in placa de catalunya barcelona spain

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.

bon nadal sign in barcelona

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:

calcots bundled up for a calcotada barcelona spain

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 .

barcelona nightlife dj spinning a disc

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 .

closeup of a balon door on a tour of the camp nou museum in barcelona spain

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)

dancers and guitar players on stage at patio andaluz flamenco bar in barcelona

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.

visitors watching projections on the rooftop of la pedrera in barcelona spain

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.

llorca painting with surreal pumpkins and children and flamingos at the moco in barcelona

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.

close up of fountains in front of the montjuic national palace

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!

the exterior of casa vicens barcelona

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! 🙏

You might be interested in:

a barcelona tourist guide over plaza espana

Tons of tips for the Barcelona virgin with discount transport passes, areas to stay, line skipping tickets, party spots, local foods, festivals, and more.

a woman looks through her barcelona in 3 days itinerary at sagrada familia

Plan the whole darn holiday with one click using our insider itineraries ranging from one to four days – and if you’re not happy we’ll make you one FREE.

tourists dancing at an outdoor festival in barcelona spain

If you’re planning a Barcelona stag do let me first off say congrats on picking the right city. Whether you’re relaxing in the Spanish sun, overtaking a friend at 70 km/h on the final lap at Messi’s favourite go kart track, or having the steak of your life before an epic beach club night you’ll be […]

COMING OVER EASTER HOLIDAYS?

Remember that this is another high season in Barcelona and tickets sell out way in advance!

Make sure you’ve got your attraction tickets booked before you leave or you run the risk of being shut out.

vetrate della Sagrada Familia al tramonto

You will be redirected to your dashboard shortly. We will also call you back in 24 hrs .

  • Barcelona In December: 10 Must-Have Experiences That Will Make Your Winter Trip More Magical

23 Mar 2023

Barcelona in December is a rather unique experience to have in Spain since there is less tourist crowd, weather is cold, there are Christmas festivals, and events filling the streets along with the holiday decorations. So, if you are planning to visit Barcelona in December 2022, then here is a list if things you can do. We’re pretty sure that will add more joy and bliss to your Eurotrip!

10 Top Things To Do In Barcelona In December

Barcelona In December is a memorable adventure and one worth having as you can experience the architecture and history of the city along with the culture and the Christmas Festivities and if you are religious then you can go for the midnight mass in the gothic Santa Maria Del Mar church and you can even hear the 5 minute ‘El Cant De La Sibil La’ just before midnight. Here are some of the best things to do in Barcelona in December.

1. Ice Rink

great arrangements

Image Source

Recently Barcelona has started this relatively new tradition of setting up ice rinks around the city and tourists and locals alike can now go for some ice skating. This goes on from late November till New Year and the cost for ice skating very depending on the location. Barcelona which was opened in 2015 and located In La Fonda shopping mall is a rather popular skating rink with sports such as ice hockey and curling being played along with ice skating, it even has a café.

Barcelona In October: Experience The Grandeur In The Rusty Colors Of Fall

Europe Holiday Packages On TravelTriangle

Explore the most beautiful places to visit in Europe, from Paris to the Venice canals and from the Greek islands to the Swiss alps. Book customized packages by expert agents on TravelTriangle. Inclusive of airport transfers, cab, resort, sightseeing and meals. Best holiday experience Guaranteed. Book Now

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Magnificent Switzerland Holiday 6D/5N Package @ Rs 69,999

Plan your trip today!

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Magnificent Europe Tour 7D/6N Package @ Rs 70,975

Get quotes from multiple travel experts.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

France & Switzerland Tour Package 8D/7N @ Rs 90,000

Compare & customize quotes before booking.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Scintillating Spain & Portugal Tour 11D/10N @ Rs 101,150

Have Questions? Talk to our travel experts today.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

6 Country Europe Tour Package 12D/11N @ Rs 118,650

Best prices guaranteed. EMI option available.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

See more at TRAVELTRIANGLE.COM

2. Harbour Swim

river view

This is a 200m swim across the harbour in Barcelona and this sport has been organized every year since 1907 by the swimming club of Barcelona and is called The Copa Nada, you can watch this race at noon from the Christopher Columbus Statue which is one of the most famous landmark in Barcelona.

3. Fira De Santa Lucia

biggest Christmas market in Barcelona

This is Barcelona’s biggest Christmas market which takes place in Gothic Quarter in front of the Cathedral and here you can browse numerous shops and buy handicrafts and gifts, festive decorations, traditional instruments and even the iconic caganer figurine also known as the pooping man figurine which is part of the Catalan culture. This market goes on from late November till 23rd of December, from 10:30am to 8:30pm.

8 Ravishing Water Parks In Barcelona To Stay Cool And Beat The Heat!

4. Fira De Nadal De La Sagrada Familia

Christmas market

Another Christmas market which is held in front of Sagrada Familia church and here you can see numerous stalls selling Christmas decorations, toys, crafts etc and on two Saturdays Father Christmas appears to collect letters from children and hand out cookies and balloon. This market also starts late November and ends on 24th of December, from 10am to 10pm.

5. Barcelona Cuisines

Barcelona Cuisines

During December and the Christmas season the food variety increases, you can try the traditional foods such as the Escudella I carn d’olla which is bowl of pasta shells with meat and vegetables stew, Carn d’olla which is stuffed turkey, the traditional Christmas bread called El Pa de Nadal and the Christmas dessert turron. There are also cooking courses offered where you are given a tour of the market and produce, a practical cooking class and a hearty meal to taste the food afterwards accompanied by some local wine.

  Celebrate Christmas In Barcelona For An Amazing Insight Into The Spanish Traditions

6. Visiting Museums and Sites

Beautiful view of outside of Museum

With the decrease in tourist crowd visiting museums and architectural sites would be a good idea, there are numerous museums in Barcelona like the Picasso museum or the Dali Museum which is highly recommended especially art enthusiasts, some even have days when the entry is free. Most museums are closed during the Christmas holidays on 25th and 26th of December and it is recommended to check the dates to see when the museums are open.

7. Three Kings Parade

biggest event in Barcelona

Despite the various Barcelona events in December one of the most important and biggest event is held on 5th January called the Three Kings Parade and on the 6th is when the three Kings brought the gifts to baby Jesus hence unlike most other countries the children in Spain get their Christmas gifts on this day. On 5th January a huge parade is held which starts from Parc de la Ciutadella at the park entrance and ends at the Magic Fountain near Placa Espanya and during the parade they distribute gifts and sweets all around. If you decide to stick around after Christmas and New year then be sure to check this amazing parade out.

10 Hostels In Barcelona That Are Perfect For A Budget Stay

8. New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve in Barcelona

Taking place at the Magic Fountain In Montjuic a celebration is organized which include fireworks and music shows, it is tradition to eat 12 grapes each with the 12 chimes at midnight. Most hotels also run shows and special dinner which you can attend, parties are held almost everywhere including Nightclubs, bars etc as the city really come alive.

9. Food Artisans Market

Market to try food

In Santa Maria Del Pi, in the Gothic quarter this market includes numerous stalls that all sell artisanal treats and traditional Christmas food such as chocolates, cheese, wines, EL Pa De Nadal, turron, cakes etc. Visit this market if you want to taste some amazing sweets and pastries and to take back home for your love ones. This market is also open throughout the Christmas season.

Barcelona In Winter: A Complete Account To Help You Plan A Wintry Spanish Spin

10. Walking Tours and Shopping

place for Shopping

Barcelona in December is amazing to just walk around and take in the sights and atmosphere with lights and decorations adorning the streets and houses, Churches of different architectural styles coming to life and market stalls being put up, you can take a guided tour or a personalized tour around the city to see the different places or just do it yourself. Barcelona is one of the top European countries for shopping and hence most shops are open till midnight during the month of December for tourists and locals alike to indulge themselves since no holiday or vacation is complete without a bit of shopping.

The temperature in Barcelona in December drops low but there is rarely any snow and Barcelona weather in December generally Include clear blue skies so just pack some warm clothes and you will be good to go. Accommodation and the cost of traveling is relatively cheap except on the dates of Christmas and New years so it is recommended to book flights and lodging for the beginning or the middle of the month and then spend the Christmas and new years there.

Thrilling Dive Spots To Go Scuba Diving In Barcelona

So, there’s no doubt that It is worth visiting Barcelona in December be it with your family or friends. Think no more and plan your trip to Spain with TravelTriangle for a fun wintery vacay right away!

Looking To Book An International Holiday?

Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Trip to Sri Lanka at Rs 13,500/-

Plan Your Vacation Today!

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Trip to Singapore at Rs 20,499/-

Get Quotes From Local Experts

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Mauritius Holiday Starting at Rs 65,000/-

Talk to Our Experts Today

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Maldives Honeymoon Trip at Rs 39,800/-

Pay with easy EMI Option

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Europe Trip at Rs 89,999/-

All Inclusive Deals

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Vacation in Dubai at Rs 27,499/-

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Hong Kong Holiday at Rs 24,999/-

Money Safe Guarantee

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Thailand Holiday at Rs 7,999/-

Flights Excluded

Recent Posts

best places to visit in barcelona in december

11 Luxurious Resorts In Switzerland For A Laid-Back Excursion

best places to visit in barcelona in december

10 Plages près de Naples où vous adorerez sortir votre crème solaire en 2024

best places to visit in barcelona in december

10 Best Places To Visit In Europe For A Dreamy Vacation

La vue magnifique de la ville Luxembourg

12 beaux endroits à visiter à Luxembourg pour votre prochaine escapade

Panoramic view of the historical center of Minsk

Belarus Nightlife: 5 Things To Do For An Unforgettable Experience

La vue incroyable de montagne et la lac

34 meilleurs lieux à visiter en Autriche en 2023 qui semblent tout droit sortis d’un livre d’images

Trending Blogs

best places to visit in barcelona in december

20 Mysterious Places In India To Visit In 2023 More Bizarre Than The Bermuda Triangle

best places to visit in barcelona in december

10 Scariest Roads In India That Are A Driver’s Nightmare

best places to visit in barcelona in december

101 Places To Visit In India Before You Turn 30 in 2024

Skiing In Krasnaya Polyana

35 Exotic Places To Visit In December In India 2024 To Enjoy A Surreal Vacation

a couple in front of taj mahal

60 Best Honeymoon Destinations In India In 2024

Best honeymoon destinations in the world

95 Best Honeymoon Destinations In The World In 2023 For A Romantic Escape!

Best Places To Visit In India By Month

Best places to visit outside india by month.

  • TravelTriangle
  • Europe » Spain »
  • Tour Packages
  • Honeymoon Packages
  • Family Packages
  • Budget Tour Packages
  • Luxury Tour Packages
  • Adventure Tour Packages
  • Group Tour Packages
  • Kerala Tour Packages
  • Goa Tour Packages
  • Andaman Tour Packages
  • Sikkim Tour Packages
  • Himachal Tour Packages
  • Uttarakhand Tour Packages
  • Rajasthan Tour Packages
  • Tour Packages From Delhi
  • Tour Packages From Mumbai
  • Tour Packages From Bangalore
  • Tour Packages From Chennai
  • Tour Packages From Kolkata
  • Tour Packages From Hyderabad
  • Tour Packages From Ahmedabad
  • Kerala Tourism
  • Goa Tourism
  • Sikkim Tourism
  • Andaman Tourism
  • Himachal Tourism
  • Uttarakhand Tourism
  • Rajasthan Tourism
  • Hotels in Kerala
  • Hotels in Goa
  • Hotels in Sikkim
  • Hotels in Andaman
  • Hotels in Himachal
  • Hotels in Uttarakhand
  • Hotels in Rajasthan

Wander Era

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.

Table of Contents

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.

Montserrat

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!

Related Posts

campsites in spain

5 Best Campsites in Spain to Enjoy Your Break Time

This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy Spain is a western European country that lies on the Iberian Peninsula. It…

Read this article »

Things to Do in Lanzarote 

5 Best Things to Do in Lanzarote 

This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy Lanzarote is a beautiful Spanish island with sandy beaches, spectacular volcanic landscapes and…

things to do in la gomera

5 Things to Do in La Gomera You Can’t Miss

This page may contain affiliate links. More info in our Privacy Policy Tucked in Spain, La Gomera is the second smallest island in the Canary…

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Veebrant

10 Best Things to Do in Barcelona This December

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you, if you make a purchase through these links. See our full disclosure here .

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

Llums de Sant Pau

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

Käthe Wohlfahrt store in Barcelona

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

Decorated hotel for Christmas

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

Barcelona in December

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

Barcelona 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

Casa Batllo illuminated for the holidays

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

Decorated building in Barcelona for Christmas

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

Pastry shop on La Rambla

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

Christmas hotel in Barcelona

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

Christmas Walking Tour in Barcelona

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) .

Join Us On Instagram!

An Adventurous World

Home » Blog » Europe » 12+ BEST Things to do in Barcelona in Winter

12+ BEST Things to do in Barcelona in Winter

By Author Chelsey Knott

Posted on Last updated: February 15, 2024

Chomping on calçots, soaking in thermal baths and visiting Christmas markets: here are the best things to do in Barcelona in winter!

barcelona in winter

Barcelona is a truly incredible city – it’s a place I’ll keep going back to year after year.

Located on the eastern side of the Spanish Mediterranean coastline, this city is the capital of autonomous community, Catalonia. Known for its distinctive architecture, influential art, and excellent beaches, you’ll never have a dull day when you visit.

While vibrant in all seasons, Barcelona in winter offers its own kind of magic. Over the darker winter months the streets are lit up in a festive display of lights, and Christmas markets pop up over the city. And let’s be honest, that means gluvine and lots of sweet treats.

rooftop at casa mila barcelona 2

There are lots activities to enjoy: spend an evening learning about the unique local Christmas traditions and munching on roasted chestnuts at the markets; go ice skating; or join the celebrations at the Els Llums de Sant Pau festival.

You’ll find that despite the mild winter weather, there are far fewer tourists at this time of year allowing you to enjoy the city as it truly is. This also gives the bonus of shorter queues and smaller crowds at popular attractions.

I’ve created a list of my favourite winter activities in Barcelona. Read on and get prepared to start planning your winter holidays!

Looking for more inspiration? Check out my 3 day Barcelona itinerary . This features some of the best things to do in Barcelona so it’s a good starting point!

barcelona winter weather

Barcelona winter weather

Compared to the countries in central Europe , Barcelona has delightfully mild winters. This is a fantastic place to visit if you’re looking to escape the winder chill.

Over the winter months the average daytime temperature is a mild 15°C (59°F), with the average temperature dropping to around 9°C (48°F) at night. It is very rare to experience frost or snowfall, even in the coldest months of January and February.

Barcelona in winter does not experience many rainy days. On average there are about five per month. Though when packing, I suggest bringing layers and a rain coat, just to be sure. I always say pack for all seasons when travelling around Europe during winter, even to places like Spain. You just never know!

Best Things to do in Barcelona in Winter

Visit the christmas markets.

If you’re visiting in December, a trip to the Christmas markets should be at the top of your list. There are a few markets around the city to choose from, with the La Fira de Santa Llucia, in front of the Barcelona Cathedral, being the largest.

barcelona christmas markets

This market dates back to the 18 th century, and is a good place to pick up traditional Christmas ornaments.

There are a few distinctive Christmas traditions that are specific to this area of the world (trust me, you’ll know when you see them). So, visiting these markets is sure to provide a unique experience.

Go ice skating

Even though the temperatures stay well above zero, you can still enjoy many traditional winter activities in Barcelona, like ice skating! Over the cooler months, extra artificial ice skating rinks are set up across the city for locals and tourists alike to enjoy.

ice skating

One popular seasonal spot is the L’Illa Diagonal Ice Rink, which opens in November each year. Located in the L’Illa Diagonal Shopping Centre, this rink is really easy to access and a great place to combine with other activities, such as digging into churros and hot chocolate!

Wonder at the Sagrada Familia

No matter which season you visit Barcelona, you have to make time to experience this architectural masterpiece, designed by Antoni Gaudi. The Sagrada Familia is truly an incredible sight to behold. The bonus of visiting in winter is having a quieter and calmer experience.

best things to do in barcelona in winter

Fun fact: while construction on this amazing cathedral started in 1882, it is still being built today!

If you want to visit inside, don’t forget to book in advance and get the audio guide. After your visit, go for a drink on the rooftop at neighbouring Hotel Ayre to take in excellent aerial views of the Sagrada Familia and surrounding area. This really is one of the best viewpoints in the city and not everyone knows about it!

Walk around the Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter is the oldest part of Barcelona. Here you can wind through historical squares and alleyways, past medieval buildings and modern eateries. If it’s your first visit, I recommend taking a free walking tour in the area.

barcelona in the winter

During the busy summer months it is easy to get lost in the ocean of tourists and miss a lot of the majesty of the Gothic Quarter. In winter, however, you can enjoy a much more intimate visit to this stunning area. Be sure to stop off for a Vermouth at El Refugi.

Dig into some local treats

Winter is the best time to enjoy the local comfort foods in Barcelona . In my opinion, this is the best time in Barcelona to dig into some warm crunchy churros dipped into thick hot chocolate. This is a great pick me up after hours of exploring the streets.

churros in winter

At the Christmas markets you can also munch down on some other winter treats. Be sure to treat yourself to a bag of roasted chestnuts and to sample the Turrón, the local type of nougat.

P.S: For the best meal of your life, try out 2* Michelin restaurant Disfrutar – it’s so good I wrote a whole post about it (and it really was the best meal of my life…)

Make the most of calçot season

Winter is also when local delicacy, calçots, are in season. Similar to a leek, these long green onions are barbecued over an open flame before being steamed in newspaper. Served whole, these delicious green onions are eaten dipped in a creamy romesco sauce.

calçot

To sample this delicious seasonal snack, head to a calçotada . Found all over the city during the season, calçotadas are both a barbecue and a celebration of this tasty treat. Don’t refuse the bib, your shirt will thank you.

Soak in the thermal baths

What better time than winter to enjoy a soak in Barcelona’s historic baths ? Located in the centre of Barcelona, these ancient baths are housed in a 17 th century warehouse.

thermal baths barcelona

Towels, robes and toiletries are provided, and you can even rent a swimsuit, so no need to drag all your gear around town. Book yourself in for an evening spa experience, and soak off those weary travelling muscles.

Party at Els Llums de Sant Pau

Over winter, the average daylight hours drop to just 10 per day. This makes it the perfect time to shine a new light on the city, which is exactly what happens during the Els Llums de Sant Pau festival .

els llums de sant pau

Running from late November until early January, the grounds of art nouveau complex Recinto Modernista de Sant Pau are transformed through vibrant electric displays. While this is predominantly an outdoor Christmas event, light shows also include galaxy and planet themes. This is a great winter activity in Barcelona if you are travelling with kids.

Wander the beautiful streets (especially an night)

While Els Llums de Sant Pau is a wonderful family event, you don’t need to visit to enjoy some seasonal lighting.

winter barcelona

Over the winter months many of the streets of Barcelona are decorated with tasteful lighting displays. For particularly magical displays, I recommend taking an evening wander through the areas surrounding Passeig de Gracia and La Rambla.

Visit the world-class museums

While Barcelona in winter has much milder and dryer weather than many of its central European neighbours, it is still possible to experience 1 or 2 rainy days during your stay. So, it’s a great idea to save your museum trips for these days. As an added bonus, with the reduced tourism in winter, they are much less crowded.

dali museum

The Dali Museum and Picasso Museum are obvious choices for art lovers. Or, head to the Chocolate Museum, which features edible entry tickets!

If you’re planning to visit more than one, be sure to look into the Barcelona card which gives you free access to museums and public transport.

Celebrate New Year’s Eve Barcelona style

As with Christmas, there are many traditions surrounding New Year’s Eve that are unique to the region. Similar to the rest of Spain, Barcelonans eat a grape for each chime of the bell at midnight. This is said to bring good luck in the coming year.

new years even in barcelona

However, there are more local traditions to look out for too. See if you can spot the nose man on the streets on the 31 st , or watch people in fun costumes competing in the nose race. On the 1 st wash off the evenings celebrations, join the brave masses, and participate in the first swim of the year.

The procession of the Three Kings

The Christmas markets may be packed up, and New Years has passed, but that doesn’t mean that the fun is over in Barcelona. Next on the event calendar is the procession of the Three Kings.

three kings festival

While January 6 is the official Three Kings Day, the celebrations begin on the evening of the 5 th . Each year children of all ages wait in anxious delight to watch the parade of the Three Wise Men.

During the parade music is played while multiple floats go by distributing presents and confectionery to the excited crowd. Bring a bag for goodies if you’re planning to attend!

Where to stay in Barcelona

Luxury: hotel arts barcelona.

where to stay in barcelona

Stay in style at the Hotel Arts Barcelona. This gorgeous designer hotel offers sleek modern furnishings and fabulous views of both the city and seaside. This hotel is home to 2* Michelin restaurant, Enoteca. Guests here also have access to two stunning pool areas, a hair salon and boutique shops, all on-site.

Mid-range: Hotel Bagués

hotels in barcelona

Located in the heart of the Gothic Quarter, Hotel Bagués is the perfect base for a car-free holiday. The hotel has a classically elegant charm mixed in with modern design, with ebony furniture and gold leaf touches. Be sure to watch the sunset by the rooftop pool.

Budget: Gran Hotel Havana

barcelona budget hotels

Situated in the Casa Fradera, built in 1882, staying in the Gran Hotel Havana is like saying in a piece of Barcelona’s history. The gorgeous building has be modernised and features marble bathrooms, a sauna and a seasonal pool area. Located in the city centre, you’ll have plenty of options for restaurants and activities right on your doorstep.

So there you have it, my favourite winter activities in Barcelona. What are yours? Let me know in the comments below.

For something very different (and might I add very funny), read all about the experience when I dressed up as a woman in Barcelona . Yes, it’s as strange as it sounds…

Like this blog post? Then Pin it for the future!

12 BEST Things to do in Barcelona in Winter

About the Author

Chelsey Knott

Chelsey has lived, worked and studied across 9 countries, and has travelled in 40+. When she is not laying on a beach in Thailand or eating her way across India, she can be found discovering hidden corners of London.

View all posts

Afternoon Tea Reads

Why Barcelona In December Is The Best Time To Visit

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! 

What's Barcelona Like in December: The Ultimate Guide #barcelonafall #barcelonadecember #barcelona #barcelonaguide

Plan your Barcelona vacation with these tools!

Digital & Printable Travel Planner :  Afternoon Tea Reads The Shoppe

Book plane tickets:   Skyscanner   Book hotels:   Booking.com   Rent a car: Enterprise Find A Tour:   Viator.com Buy Tickets To Barcelona Attractions:   The Barcelona Pass

Quick Barcelona Reads:   Stay In Gràcia in Barcelona |  Easy Ways To Save Money in Barcelona

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!

barcelonetta-in-december

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

For more activities and tours in Barcelona, click here .

barcelona-in-december-street

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

travel-planner-close-up-thumbnail

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.

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 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.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Watch Out! 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!

las-ramblas-december-barcelona

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.

barcelona-skyline-at_sunset- travel-tips-for-couple

You might also be interested in reading…

My top ways to save in Barcelona

Save money on Barcelona attractions 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!

park-guell-crowded-free-entry

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!

Holiday markets make a great place to shop for one of a kind Barcelona souvenirs, see some of my suggestions for souvenirs to look for here .

Make Your Own Espadrilles

barcelona-holiday-markets-december

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 here .

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 here .

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 here .

For more accommodation options on Booking.com here .

stay-in-gracia-barcelona

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 What Edinburgh Is Like In October
  • See What Belgium Is Like In September
  • See What The South of France Is Like in November
  • See The Pros and Cons of Fall Travel
  • Experience The Best of Montreal in the Fall: The Ultimate Guide

Click Image To Share Or Save For Later

What's Barcelona Like in December: The Ultimate Guide #barcelonafall #barcelonadecember #barcelona #barcelonaguide

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 :)

best places to visit in barcelona in december

  • Group Enquiry? NEW
  • Barcelona in December

Things to Do in Barcelona in December

Quick navigation.

Welcome to the Sagrada Familia

Essential Information About Barcelona in December

Weather in barcelona in december.

Weather in Barcelona in December

  • The weather in Barcelona during the month of December can be quite variable. The average high temperature during December is about 12 degrees Celsius, with the average low temperature being about 8 degrees Celsius. 
  • Temperatures can range from highs of around 15 degrees Celsius to lows of around 5 degrees Celsius. So, if you're planning a trip to Barcelona in December, pack for the early winter weather.
  • Precipitation-wise, December is usually a fairly dry month in Barcelona, and there are only about five days of precipitation during the month. However, this can range from 0 days of precipitation to over 20 days of precipitation on rare instances.

What To Pack for Barcelona in December

What To Pack for Barcelona in December

  • Light winter clothes - December can be chilly, especially at night, so it's good to have something to throw on when the temperature dips. 
  • Medicines and first aid kit : keep the prescribed medicines along with a cough syrup and antacids to keep you secure from basic health issues in winter.
  • Comfortable shoes - You'll be doing a lot of walking in Barcelona, so make sure to pack a pair of comfortable shoes. Sneakers or flats are ideal. 
  • Sunglasses and sunscreen : Although December is a winter month, make sure you carry sunglasses and sunscreen for the daylight hours.

Things To Do in Barcelona in December

Have a look at la sagrada familia.

 Have a look at La Sagrada Familia

  • Visiting Barcelona's La Sagrada Familia during Christmas time is one of the best things to do in Barcelona in December, where you will witness intricately designed tall towers, angled pillars, marvellous glass windows and beautiful interiors of the church
  • While you're at La Sagrada Familia, be sure to take a tour of the inside of the church where you'll be able to see some of Gaudi's incredible mosaics up close and learn more about the history of this fascinating building.

Sagrada Familia Tickets, Barcelona

Visit Park Güell

Visit Park Güell

  • If you're visiting Barcelona in December, be sure to check out Park Güell, as this world-famous park is one of the biggest garden spaces in Spain.
  • There are plenty of things to see and do in Park Güell, including the Dragon Staircase, the Monumental Zone, and the Banc de la Concòrdia. 
  • Be sure to explore the park's many stunning features, including the mosaic benches, dragon fountain, and tiled roofs.

Park Guell Skip-the-line Tickets

Best of United Kingdom

 Places to Visit in United Kingdom & Top Tourist Places

Explore Casa Vicens

Explore Casa Vicens

  • Explore Casa Vicens on your trip to Barcelona as it is one of the first examples of Antoni Gaudí's unique style of architecture. 
  • It is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and open to the public to observe and get fascinated by the unique architecture style and numerous paintings made by Gaud.
  • The building itself is a work of art, with its intricate mosaics and detailed ironwork. Be sure to also check out the exhibitions inside, which change regularly.

Spain

Best of Spain

 Places to Visit in Spain, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

Visit Unique Building of Casa Batllo

Visit Unique Building of Casa Batllo

  • Casa Batllo is a unique building designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudi. It is one of the most representative examples of his unique style of architecture. 
  • Explore the building where you’ll be able to access an astounding entrance hall, mezzanine and rooftop, all of it decorated with allegorical motifs in Gaudi’s inimitable style.
  • You can learn more about the history and architecture of the building at the museum and also gaze at stunning views of the city from its terrace.

Casa Batllo Tickets, Barcelona

Best of Paris

Paris New Year's Eve {{year}}: Things to Do in Paris on New Year

Explore Casa Mila

Explore Casa Mila

  • Your list of things to do in Barcelona in December should include Casa Milá, which was built between 1906 and 1912 and is one of the last works of Antoni Gaudí. 
  • The building has an irregular stone façade with undulating curves and balconies that resemble waves. 
  • The interior is equally as impressive, with its spiral staircases, wrought iron railings, and stained-glass windows.
  • Guided tours are available in multiple languages and lasting approximately 45 minutes. 

Casa Mila Barcelona Tickets

Best of London

3 Days in London Itinerary {{year}}: Places to Visit & Things to Do

Explore Underwater World Barcelona Aquarium

Explore Underwater World Barcelona Aquarium

  • Visiting the Barcelona aquarium should be considered while deciding things to do in Barcelona in December as it is one of the largest in Europe and houses over 11,000 animals of 450 different species. 
  • Inside the aquarium, you'll find several different exhibits to explore, each with its unique ecosystem. 
  • There's also an Aquarium Museum where you can learn about the history of marine life and even touch some of the creatures that call the aquarium home.

Aquarium Barcelona Tickets

Best of Madrid

 Places to Visit in Madrid, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

Attending a Flamenco Show

Attending a Flamenco Show

  • Flamenco is a type of Spanish dance that is known for its passionate and emotional style, and it's the perfect way to get into the festive spirit!
  • There are plenty of great places to see flamenco in Barcelona. One of the most popular is the Palau de la Música Catalana, which hosts regular shows throughout the month. 
  • You could head to one of the city's many smaller flamenco clubs, where you'll be able to get up close and personal with the dancers. 

Flamenco Show Tickets, Barcelona

Best of France

 Places to Visit in France, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

Visit La Rambla

Visit La Rambla

  • La Rambla is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Barcelona in December and is decorated with holiday lights and decorations during Christmas
  • This is a great place to take a stroll and enjoy the festive atmosphere. 
  • One of the best things about La Rambla is that it is always bustling with activity. Whether you're looking to watch people or do some shopping, you'll find plenty to keep you busy on this street. 

Granada

Best of Granada

 Places to Visit in Granada, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

Celebrating Christmas Evening

Celebrating Christmas Evening

  • Barcelona in December is the month for festive decorations, Christmas markets, nativity scenes, and traditional Spanish cuisine. 
  • Some numerous restaurants and cafes will be open on Christmas evening, so enjoying a festive meal with friends or family will be a delight 
  • You can head to Plaça de Catalunya, the city's main square, where you'll find a huge Christmas tree and a lively atmosphere.

Seville

Best of Seville

 Places to Visit in Seville, Tourist Places & Top Attractions

Celebrating New Year's Eve!

Celebrating New Year's Eve!

  • You can spend New Year's Eve at the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc as this spectacular light and water show is even more breathtaking when set against the backdrop of midnight in Barcelona.
  • Or head to Plaça de Catalunya for some of the best experiences on New Year's Eve when it becomes a veritable hive of activity as people from all over gather to celebrate here.
  • You can also watch the city lights from high up, with a delicious drink in hand from some of the rooftop cafes of the city.

People Also Ask About Barcelona

What are the weather conditions in barcelona during december, which are the best places to visit in barcelona in december.

  • La Sagrada Familia : La Sagrada Familia church is a beautiful place to visit in Barcelona in December during Christmas when it's decorated with lights and garlands.
  • Park Guell: World-famous Park Guell is decked out in holiday lights and decorations during December, making it a magical place to stroll around.
  • Gothic Quarter: The Gothic Quarter is another great place to visit in December as it is full of medieval architecture, narrow streets, and a festive atmosphere during Christmas time.

What to wear to visit Barcelona in December?

Is it worth going to barcelona in december, which are some of the best spain attraction tickets that we can book via thrillophilia.

  • Moco Museum Tickets Barcelona
  • Museo Cuevas del Sacromonte Tickets
  • Zoo Barcelona Tickets
  • Guell Palace Barcelona Tickets
  • Palau de la Musica Catalana Tickets
  • Abadía del Sacromonte Tickets
  • Plaza De Toros Seville Tickets
  • Setas De Sevilla Tickets

Visit the Castelldefels Castle and see Piratia Exhibition

Trending in Barcelona

Adventure in barcelona.

Enjoy the hot air balloon ride with delicious breakfast, Barcelona

Attractions in Barcelona

Welcome to the Casa Amatller

Barcelona Top Attractions

Barcelona

Step into the enchanting world of the Gothic Quarter, an iconic neighborhood in the heart of Barcelona, Spain. Meander through its labyrinthine streets, where Gothic architecture blends harmoniously with medieval charm. Uncover the district's rich history, dating back to Roman times, as you explore its ancient landmarks and hidden corners.The Gothic Quarter is a living testament to Barcelona's cultural heritage, offering a vibrant mix of historical sites, trendy shops, and lively cafes. From the majestic Barcelona Cathedral to the bustling La Rambla, this neighborhood offers a captivating journey through time.A visit to the Gothic Quarter promises an immersive experience, where history, art, and modern life converge. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking to savor the city's authentic charm, this district beckons you to embrace the essence of Barcelona's captivating allure.

Olympic Village

Experience the legacy of the Olympics at Olympic Village, an urban district that once hosted athletes during the Games. Marvel at the modern architecture, recreational facilities, and green spaces that create a vibrant and welcoming community. Delve into the cultural significance of this iconic venue, where history and sportsmanship merge.Olympic Village stands as a testament to the spirit of international unity and athletic excellence, with a legacy that continues to inspire generations. Whether you're a sports enthusiast, a fan of the Olympics, or simply intrigued by urban planning, this destination offers a unique glimpse into the world of athletes and the lasting impact of the Games.A visit to Olympic Village promises a captivating experience, where sports, culture, and community converge to celebrate the global spirit of competition and camaraderie.

Salon del Tinell

Step into the majestic world of Salon del Tinell, a stunning medieval hall in Barcelona, Spain. Admire its remarkable Gothic architecture, featuring magnificent vaulted ceilings and intricate details that transport you to a bygone era. Uncover the rich history and cultural significance of this grand landmark, which once hosted royal receptions and banquets, including the legendary wedding of Ferdinand II and Isabella I.Salon del Tinell stands as a symbol of Barcelona's historical legacy, preserving its grandeur and allure through the ages. From its ornate facade to its regal interiors, this hall exudes a timeless charm that captivates visitors.A visit to Salon del Tinell promises a captivating journey through the city's royal past and architectural splendor. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply seeking to embrace the beauty of Barcelona's cultural treasures, this landmark offers an unforgettable experience that celebrates the city's regal heritage.

More Barcelona Attractions

Barcelona travel guides.

10 Things to do in Barcelona At Night:  {{year}} Updated

Barcelona Reviews

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Popular Nearby Places Around Barcelona

More things to do in barcelona, more on barcelona tourism, popular related destinations.

Spain

Best Domestic Packages

Best international packages, domestic honeymoon packages, international honeymoon packages, places to visit in india, international places to visit, things to do in india, international things to do, popular on thrillophilia.

  • We assure the privacy of your contact data.
  • This data will only be used by our team to contact you and no other purposes.

Your enquiry has been received successfully. Our destination expert will reach out to you soon!

The 17 best things to do in Barcelona in 2024

Feb 12, 2024 • 8 min read

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Here are Barcelona's unmissable experiences © Jordi Salas / Getty Images

Barcelona is Spain 's most visited city, and it's not hard to see why – the historic capital of Catalonia is packed with galleries, museums, attractions and an incredible food scene.

Set between the mountains and sea, the city is celebrated for its unique architecture , thriving nightlife and urban beaches . With so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Start your travel to-do list now with our guide to the best things to do in Barcelona .

1. Visit the Sagrada Família

Almost every city has at least one landmark that you simply can’t miss, and the  Sagrada Família is Barcelona’s. Antoni Gaudí’s magnificent masterpiece has been under construction for more than 130 years, and it’s still not finished.

Far from a construction site, however, the church features two grand facades studded with intricate stone carvings, towers that gleam with gem-like tiles and an interior filled with tree-like columns soaring up toward the canopy ceiling. Construction work paused during the pandemic but has resumed and the building is expected to be completed in time for the 100th anniversary of Gaudí’s death in 2026.

Planning tip:  The Sagrada Família is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Spain, and it can get  very  busy. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning (it opens at 9am) on a weekday.

2. See more of Gaudí’s designs

The Sagrada Família may be the most famous of Gaudí’s buildings, but all his wonderful, whimsical designs are worth visiting. The most well known are  Casa Batlló , with its iridescent dragon-like scales and skull-and-bone-effect balconies, and  La Pedrera , with its undulating stone facade and fanciful chimneys. Some of his lesser-known but equally beautiful buildings include  Casa Vicens , the first house he ever designed;  Palau Güell , which he designed for his patron Eusebi Güell; and the  Torre Bellesguard .

A woman walks through an otherwise empty, sunlit street in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona

3. Wander through the Gothic Quarter

Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter ( Barri Gòtic ) is the oldest and most atmospheric part of the city. Characterized by small alleyways, hidden plazas and historic buildings, it lies to the east of La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street that runs through the center of the old town.

The neighborhood is scattered with century-old shops, small bars and charming cafes. Some highlights include the striking Plaça Reial, fringed by cafes and palm trees; Plaça Sant Jaume, home to the grand Palau de la Generalitat; and the impressive  La Catedral .

Planning tip:  Many parts of the Gothic Quarter are known for late-night bars and clubs that are still going well into the morning. Perfect if you want to dance until dawn, but not the best neighborhood to stay in if you're traveling with young kids or those who appreciate an early night.

4. Explore Barcelona's food markets

La Boqueria might be the most famous of Barcelona’s food markets, but each neighborhood has its own, and there are several excellent ones to choose from. La Boqueria is the oldest and one of the most atmospheric, but in recent years, more stalls have given over to things such as tropical fruit shakes and novelty candy rather than traditional produce.

For a more authentic vibe, visit the modern  Mercat de Santa Caterina with its multicolored wavy roof or the grand  Mercat de Sant Antoni  with 250 stalls.

The coastline with Barcelona's beaches and a large hotel in the background

5. Soak up the sun on Barcelona's city beaches

Whatever time of year you visit Barcelona , the beaches won’t disappoint. Even in winter, it can be sunny enough to sit outside and enjoy a meal at one of the seaside restaurants, while summer offers everything from sunbathing and swimming to water sports.

The city boasts a 5km (3-mile) stretch of coastline, home to nine different beaches. There’s  Sant Sebastià with its range of upscale restaurants, Somorrostro lined with hip nightclubs and Nova Icària with a watersports center and beach volleyball.

6. Venture up Montjuïc

Montjuïc is the green hill to the south of the city, home to the Olympic Park, as well as numerous museums and gardens. Rising from Plaza d’Espanya, you'll first see the grand sets of stairs and fountains cascading down from the magnificent palace housing the  Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya . Behind that is the huge Olympic Stadium and the rest of the Olympic Park. 

Planning tip:  The Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya has a terrace that offers spectacular views of the city and is a popular spot to watch the sunset. The open-air bar means you can enjoy a few drinks while taking in the view.

Explore Montjuic effortlessly with  GetYourGuide . Book your tour today.

A counter lined with people eating tapas at Mercat de la Boqueria, Barcelona

7. Snack on some tapas

When hunger pangs arrive in the afternoon or early evening, take advantage of the pre-dinner tapa. This means heading to the local favorite for a bite of anchovies, sausage, squid, wild mushrooms, roasted peppers or dozens of other tempting morsels. Wine, cava and beer all make fine accompaniments.

Planning tip: Many tapas spots are lively stand-around-the-bar affairs. When it's time for a change of scenery, barcelonins  make their way to dinner or just head to another tapas bar and skip the sit-down formality altogether.

8. Learn about an icon at the Museu Picasso

Picasso lived in Barcelona between the ages of 15 and 23, and elements of the city undoubtedly influenced his pieces, from the colorful but simply painted frescoes hanging in the Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya to the imaginative trencadís -style mosaics (pre-Cubist some say) of Gaudí. The Museu Picasso 's setting adds to the appeal, as do the buzzy, history-rich surrounding streets of El Born.

Explore Museu Picasso effortlessly with GetYourGuide.  Book your tour today .

Soccer fans watch a game between Futbol Club Barcelona and Manchester City at Camp Nou in Barcelona

9. Catch a game at Camp Nou

FC Barcelona plays a prominent role in the city's imagination. Heading to a football match at Camp Nou between September and May is the best way to catch a bit of Barcelona fever, but watching it on screen in a bar can be just as much fun, depending on the crowd. 

Planning tip: Even if you can't make it to a game, the interactive Barça Stadium Tour and Museum experience takes you through the locker rooms and onto the field, hallowed ground for many Catalans.

Transform your visit to Camp Nou by  booking with GetYourGuide.

10. Experience Barcelona's famous nightlife

A night in Barcelona holds limitless possibilities. Start with sunset drinks on a rooftop terrace or sink your heels into the sand at a rustic-chic beachside xiringuito . As darkness falls, the city transforms with buzzing squares and live music, and around midnight the bars fill up.

Pick from old-school taverns, plush lounges in lamp-lit medieval chambers, sleek cocktail dens, boisterous cava bars, basements churning out brassy jazz and more. If you're still standing at 3am, hit the clubs and keep going until dawn.

Hundreds of people walk along La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street in Barcelona

11. Spend an early morning on La Rambla

Sure, the leafy 1.2km (0.75-mile) pedestrian boulevard of  La Rambla  that stretches toward the sea is the most touristed spot in town – at times, you can barely push through the crowds. But pay a visit first thing in the morning and you'll see that beyond the souvenir shops and craft sellers, it's a pure sensory overload.

Open-air cafes, fragrant flower stands and a much-overlooked mosaic by Miró dot the pavement, while key venues line both sides of the street, including the elegant Gran Teatre del Liceu , the sprawling Mercat de la Boqueria and numerous galleries. Several other barris , such as El Poblenou, have their own attractive rambles , too.

12. Enjoy Catalan cuisine

Barcelona is a great foodie city, known throughout the world for its innovative chefs and creative cuisine. While you’ll find tapas bars everywhere, be sure to sample some local Catalan dishes, too.

Before you dine, join in l’hora del vermut at a typical vermouth bar, which pairs the fortified wine with bites of pickled anchovies and olives to whet the appetite. Follow it up with traditional Catalan dishes, such as botifarra amb mongetes (sausage with white beans), suquet de peix (fish stew), escalivada (roasted red peppers, onions and eggplant) and crema catalana (similar to crème brûlée). Sample the cuisine at  Casa Delfín .

13. Celebrate during festival time

Because Barcelona has a festival almost every other month, it won’t be hard to make your trip to the city coincide with one. There are the patron-saint festivals of Santa Eulalia and La Mercé in February and September, respectively, La Diada de Sant Jordi in April (when people give each other gifts of books and roses to celebrate St George) and the fire festival of St Joan in mid-June.

Some of the main features of Catalan festivals include the castellers  (human towers), huge parading giants and correfocs , where firework-wielding devils dance through the streets.

14. See a range of works at Fundació Joan Miró

Joan Miró, the city’s best-known 20th-century native son, bequeathed this art foundation to his hometown in 1971. The light-filled buildings are crammed with seminal works, from Miró’s timid early sketches to paintings from his last years.

A balcony of the Palau de la Música Catalana, decorated with many multicolored mosaics on the bannisters and columns

15. Scope out examples of Modernista architecture

One of the things that makes Barcelona so charming is its Modernista architecture. An artistic movement that affected everything from literature and art to architecture, the Modernisme era lasted from the late 19th to the early 20th centuries.

You can identify these buildings by their bright colors, floral or botanical motifs, patterned tiles and curvy lines. Some of the best examples can be seen around the L'Eixample area, but you can also find them dotted all over the city. Besides Gaudí’s Modernista works, some of the best examples in the city are the  Palau de la Música Catalana and the  Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau , both designed by the architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner.

16. Explore up-and-coming El Poblenou

On the up is the formerly industrial neighborhood of El Poblenou, northeast of the center. Vacant warehouses are being reimagined as creative tech and design hubs, cafes, boutiques, bars and more.

17. Sip a drink at one of L'Eixample's rooftop bars

Admire Modernista marvels over a cocktail or vermouth. L'Eixample 's elegant streets conceal an array of hidden-away, view-laden open-air bars and cafes beloved by barcelonins , many of them within swish hotels but open to all. 

This article was first published February 2020 and updated February 2024

Explore related stories

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Nov 1, 2023 • 15 min read

Our fave Christmas markets offer chestnuts roasting on an open fire, copious amounts of mulled wine and some of the best hot chocolate ever.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Oct 2, 2023 • 3 min read

Catalan Festival of Bears opening.jpg

Feb 15, 2023 • 6 min read

Barcelona evening

Jul 6, 2022 • 7 min read

Balearic Islands

Jun 24, 2022 • 6 min read

Photographer Amanda McCadams at Teotihuacan

Apr 7, 2022 • 6 min read

View of the city from Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain

Jul 30, 2021 • 6 min read

View over Yedra Castle in Cazorla Town, Jaen Province, Andalusia, Spain.; Shutterstock ID 1891910137; Your name (First / Last): Ben Buckner; GL account no.: 65050; Netsuite department name: Client Services; Full Product or Project name including edition: Spain OTBT Partner

Apr 19, 2021 • 7 min read

FRAUENBAD STADTHAUSQUAI.jpg

Dec 9, 2020 • 7 min read

PaloAlto4..jpg

Sep 16, 2019 • 4 min read

  • Top Things to do
  • Barcelona Tours
  • Attractions
  • Sagrada Familia
  • Camp Nou Tours
  • Casa Batllo
  • Portaventura World
  • Casa Vicens
  • Wax Museum Barcelona
  • Hola Barcelona Travel Card
  • Las Golondrinas Barcelona
  • Palau De La Musica Catalana
  • Erotic Museum of Barcelona
  • Barcelona Catedral
  • Montserrat Monastery
  • Barcelona Zoo
  • KBr Photography Center Mapfre Foundation
  • Big Fun Museum
  • Barcelona Aquarium
  • Montjuic Cable Car
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
  • Theme Parks
  • Water Parks
  • Religious Sites
  • Travel Guide
  • Things to do
  • Trip Planner
  • Where to Eat
  • Where to Stay
  • Neighbourhoods
  • Family Travel
  • Transportation
  • Festivals and Events
  • Travel Tips
  • Best Time to Visit

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

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 - barcelona christmas

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

New Year's Tradition- Twelve Grapes - Spanish Festival Tradition - New Year Celebration

Grapes and Red Pants

Barcelona New Year Fireworks

Top 12 things to do in Barcelona in December

barcelona in december - la sagrada familia

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

barcelona in december - park guell

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

barcelona in december - casa vicens

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.

barcelona in december

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.

barcelona in december

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. 

barcelona in december - thermal bath

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.

barcelona in december - gaudi house museum

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.

barcelona in december - casa mila

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

barcelona in december - casa batllo

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

barcelona in december - flamenco show

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!

barcelona in december - la rambla

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.

barcelona in december - placa de espanya

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.

best places to visit 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.

barcelona in december

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

barcelona in december - ice skating

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.

barcelona in december - Fira de Nadal Sagrada Familia

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.

barcelona in december- barcelona cathedral

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

barcelona in december - essentials

Time Zone : GMT +2

Currency : Euro - EUR - €

Country code : +34

Emergency numbers : 112

barcelona in december

  • 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. 

barcelona in december

  • 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.

barcelona in december - metro

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.

barcelona in december - hotel

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

Barcelona in december roast pig

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.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

  • Things to Do
  • Food & Drink
  • Music & Nightlife
  • Restaurants
  • Barcelona by area
  • Trips near Barcelona
  • Time Out Shop
  • Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Basilica,Of,The,Sagrada,Familia,In,Barcelona

The 50 best attractions and places to visit in Barcelona

From massive museums and picture-perfect parks to modernista buildings and beaches galore, these are the best things to see and do in Barcelona

In many ways, Barcelona itself is one big attraction. The centre of Catalan culture is one of the most popular destinations on the planet, a shimmering stunner of a city packed with museums , restaurants  and beautiful sights. No matter your preferred form of travel, you’ll find something to love here. 

From the world-famous to the decidedly local, our pick of the best attractions and places to visit in Barcelona covers a lot of ground. This place has enough to fill a lifetime, but these are the bucket list items for those short on time. You’ll need plenty of it to do all 50 in one trip, but there's no harm in trying – or you'll just have to come back again, and again, and again…

RECOMMENDED:  Barcelona's best Airbnbs RECOMMENDED:  The best hotels in Barcelona

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

An email you’ll actually love

Best Barcelona attractions

Sagrada Família

1.  Sagrada Família

  • Attractions
  • Religious buildings and sites
  • Sagrada Família

Soaring above Barcelona’s cityscape, the Sagrada Família will be the world’s tallest church upon completion (estimated, finally, for 2026). This 130-year labour of love, dreamt up by Antoni Gaudí, is one of the world’s most controversial basilicas, but also one of the most visited. Three million tourists flock here each year to gawk at the architectural achievement that has brought nature, light and religion together into one stunning ensemble. The interior is like a giant jigsaw puzzle, with each new style blending into the rest of Gaudí’s visionary design.

Time Out tip: Don't forget to explore the basement. Admission also gives visitors access to the subterranean museum, which provides the chance to watch sculptors working at plaster-cast models IRL through a large window.

La Rambla

2.  La Rambla

This is undoubtedly the most famous street in Barcelona. Stretching from Port Vell to Plaça de Catalunya in the centre, La Rambla offers a bevvy of shops, flower stands, artworks and attractions. Don’t miss the ornate Canaletes fountain, Boqueria market, Liceu opera house and Teatre Principal.

Time Out tip: Think the opera is for fancy people? Think again. A night at Gran Teatre del Liceu can cost less than tickets to see the ‘in’ band of the moment. Plus, it's not just opera, they host ballet and concerts too.

Barcelona Cathedral

3.  Barcelona Cathedral

  • Ciutat Vella

It’s always worth checking out an inner-city cathedral and Barcelona is no exception. Its cathedral is an impressive example of Gothic architecture that’s now a Cultural Heritage Site and, since 1929, a National Historic Monument. It’s dedicated to the Holy Cross and to Saint Eulalia, patron saint of Barcelona, who was martyred by the Romans and whose remains lie in the crypt. Aside from the artistic and architectural riches of the interior, you should also visit the cloister with its 13 white geese (one for each year of Saint Eulalia’s life) and the well-worn engravings on the floor detailing which guild paid for each part of the chapel.

Time Out tip: If you visit on a Saturday or Sunday morning, you may get to witness the Catalan tradition known as the Sardana dance, performed in the square in front of the cathedral.

Picasso Museum

4.  Picasso Museum

If the quality of a museum is measured by the number of people queuing to get in, the Picasso Museum takes first place. The museum was created by the cubist painter and his friend and secretary Jaime Sabartès, who donated his collection to the cause. More than 3,800 works make up the permanent collection, and it also hosts an array of temporary exhibitions. 

Time Out tip: Queues can be punishingly long. Visit at lunch or shortly before the last entry in an attempt to avoid them (or book ahead of time online).

La Boqueria Market

5.  La Boqueria Market

  • Markets and fairs

Its stallholders have had to learn languages and indulge in public relations because as well as being the main food market in Barcelona, La Boqueria is now a major tourist destination. Just off La Rambla, this is the biggest market in Catalonia, with more than 300 stalls and a surface area of 2,583 square metres. That is a lot of bits to buy. Think of some obscure delicacy, and you’re almost guaranteed to find it here. Artisanal produce is, naturally, in abundance.

Time Out tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid heaving crowds. Your aptitude will be rewarded by the best produce – but remember to shop around, as prices vary hugely.

Barceloneta

6.  Barceloneta

Barcelona has miles of beaches, from Sant Sebastià to Llevant. Many can be found in Barceloneta, the famous maritime and workers’ neighbourhood that sprung up on the island of Maians in the 17th century. It’s worth wandering through the streets of Barceloneta to admire its modest yet charming two-storey houses. Another draw is the area’s excellent and varied cuisine, ranging from tapas and vermouth to paella and seafood. You can also spend a few hours checking out the glitzy yachts lining the marinas, such as the Port Olympic complex. 

Time Out tip: Stop in at Can Solé. Founded in 1903, it's one of the city’s classic seafood restaurants, with possibly the most extensive selection of rice and fideuà dishes in the neighbourhood.

Casa Milà

7.  Casa Milà

  • Sightseeing
  • Dreta de l'Eixample

It has been described as looking like rising dough, molten lava or a stone lung. Let's just say you can make up your own description of this weird and wonderful bit of modernism. Casa Milà is a daring example of Gaudí’s use of stone. When La Pedrera, his last civic project, was first commissioned in 1906, the building became a laughing stock for its undulating façade, wrought-iron balconies and vast windows. Today, of course, it is viewed quite differently and Gaudí’s innovative self-supporting stone exterior has won it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list. 

Time Out tip: Make a beeline for the roof. Its mosaic-tiled ventilation shafts are topped with what looks like the helmets of medieval knights, which led the poet Pere Gimferrer to dub the spot 'the garden of warriors'.

Botanical Garden

8.  Botanical Garden

  • Sants - Montjuïc

Enjoy a leisurely stroll through 14 hectares of beautiful greenery from around the globe without leaving Barcelona. This botanical garden is split into five areas, with Australian, Californian, Mediterranean, South African and Chilean plants grouped neatly into each. Plus, if you look past the fauna, you’ll get a cracking view of the city. There are about 1500 species in the Jardí Botànic, so start ticking them off.

Time Out tip: On the other side of the park you’ll find a typical farmhouse, where volunteers help to organise public activities.

Park Güell

9.  Park Güell

  • Historic buildings and sites
  • price 1 of 4

Up in Barcelona’s Horta-Guinardó neighbourhood, is this maze of walls and walkways consisting of gardens, little architectural displays and more, all boasting breathtaking hillside views of the whole city. Highlights include the Hall of One Hundred Columns (though it actually has 86), the mosaic serpent bench and the salamander on the main steps. 

Time Out tip: Entry to the park is free, but if you have €10 to spare, enter the Monumental Zone, where you'll see the iconic mosaic bench and dragon (and more).

Montjuïc Magic Fountain

10.  Montjuïc Magic Fountain

Most locals will only see this light, music and water show when they are little kids or have to act as tour guides for visitors. But whether you’ve got your own offspring in tow or not, the show brings out childlike wonder in us all. After all, it is magic . Designed by Carles Buïgas, it is one of the last remaining attractions made for the 1929 International Exposition.

Time Out tip: For that little extra je ne sais quoi, go down on New Year's Eve for Festa de Cap d'Any. It's one of the biggest party nights in town and the fountain display is even more spectacular than usual.

Olympic Ring

11.  Olympic Ring

In 1992, Barcelona captivated the world with the Olympic Games and the Olympic Ring was built on Montjuïc hill. Covering more than 400 hectares, it includes the Calatrava communications tower,  Lluís Companys Olympic Stadium ,  Palau Sant Jordi  sports hall, Picornell swimming pools, and the head office of the Catalan Institute for Physical Education, as well as the Joan Antoni Samaranch Olympic and Sports Museum, which opened in 2007. The ring looks more like a sewing needle to us, but that's fine too. 

Time Out tip: When you book your vaycay, check bookings for Palau Sant Jordi and its adjoining Club. They host major sporting and music events, with anyone from the Back Street Boys and Lenny Kravitz to the basketball world championships held here.

CaixaForum

12.  CaixaForum

  • Art and design
  • La Font de la Guatlla

Another example of a brilliantly restored building. Puig i Cadafalch built this former textile factory at the foot of Montjuïc for the entrepreneur Casimir Casaramona. After being abandoned for years, the Fundació La Caixa bought it and turned it into a cultural, social and educational centre. As well as permanent collections of contemporary art, there are three spaces for temporary exhibitions and a programme that includes concerts, lectures, screenings, guided tours and child-friendly activities. So yes, it might sound like a pharma company, but it is a wonderful place to visit, with scenery like no other. And the art is pretty good too.

Time Out tip: Scale one (or both) of its two towers. The 'water tower' culminates in a wonderful conical pinnacle covered in blue mosaic. The other is the 'clock tower' and, although it's clockless, it contains beautiful ironwork.

Plaça de Sant Felip Neri

13.  Plaça de Sant Felip Neri

For many in Barcelona, Sant Felip Neri is the prettiest square in the city – perhaps because of its sheer simplicity. The square is built over the old medieval cemetery of Montjuïc del Bisbe and features a church and school of the same name, some Renaissance buildings and the former head offices of the tinker and shoemaker guilds. If you look closely at the façade of the Sant Felip Neri church, you might notice shrapnel from a bomb thrown by Franco’s forces during the Civil War, tragically killing 42 people, most of them children.

Time Out tip: You'll find the Museu del Calçat (Shoe Museum) here, which is a delightfully quirky place detailing the cobbler’s craft, from Roman sandals to ’70s platform boots.

Maritime Museum

14.  Maritime Museum

Barcelona’s dockyards (declared a Historic-Artistic Monument in 1976) look better than ever. The Maritime Museum is responsible for preserving, studying and publicising one of the most important collections of maritime heritage in the Mediterranean. They are worth a look simply for their architecture, the museum hosts a variety of exhibitions, and the garden and café make for a thoroughly pleasant pit stop.

Time Out tip: Your ticket also allows you aboard the beautiful 1917 'Santa Eulàlia' schooner docked nearby in the Moll de la Fusta. The old ship was one of the last sail-driven boats to transport goods across the Mediterranean.

Illa de la Discòrdia

15.  Illa de la Discòrdia

In just one block in Barcelona, the section of Passeig de Gràcia between C/Aragó and C/Consell de Cent, there are five major buildings from the Catalan modernist era:  Casa Lleó Morera  by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, Casa Mulleras by Enric Sagnier, Casa Bonet by Marcel·lià Coquillat,  Casa Amatller  by Josep Puig i Cadafalch, and  Casa Batlló  by Antoni Gaudí. It was named the Block of Discord because of the rivalries between the five architects, and who doesn't love some good juicy architecture drama? Go with some mates, and battle it out for your faves. 

Time Out tip: Venture inside the Dutch-inspired Casa Amatller to see the vast photographic collection that once belonged to the chocolate baron for after whom the building is named.

Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site

16.  Sant Pau Art Nouveau Site

Not far from the Sagrada Família is another modernista gem, the spectacular hospital by Domènech i Montaner. The architect was inspired by hygiene ideals and state-of-the-art hospitals in Europe at the time, so he designed a centre with isolation wards (each for a particular speciality), surrounded by gardens and connected by underground passages. Montaner believed that aesthetic harmony and a welcoming atmosphere were good for health. After more than 80 years of service, the hospital moved to a more modern building and renovation of the old building began. You can now visit with or without a tour guide to discover the history of one of the oldest hospitals in Europe. It is, and was, a city within a city.

Time Out tip: Visit over the Christmas period to see the spectacular light show projected onto the exterior of Sant Pau. It usually kicks off on the winter solstice for a few weeks.

The Carmel Bunkers

17.  The Carmel Bunkers

The Carmel Bunkers never feature on the standard city tours, which is a shame because if you don’t visit them, you’ll miss some of the  best views of Barcelona . The anti-aircraft guns were built in 1937, during the Civil War, when Barcelona was hit by almost 200 bombings a day. From the 1950s, with the boom in immigration, people moved in. A shantytown sprung up and the residents fought for improvements (electricity, water, bins) and were later rehoused in buildings with better conditions. When Barcelona hosted the Olympic Games in 1992, the city demolished the shacks and abandoned the space. Locals later fought for its recognition as a place of historical importance.

Time Out tip: Get there just before sunset to catch some stellar lighting for your photos.

Estació de França

18.  Estació de França

The ‘French Station’ is a product of the 1929 Barcelona International Exposition and is the second largest station in Barcelona ​​after Sants. Comparable in elegance and grandeur to Paris’s former Orsay station, its vast metal arches are a fine example of cast-iron architecture.

Time Out tip: The lobby, designed by Duran i Reynals in the Noucentisme style, today hosts events, including vintage fairs.

Bellesguard Tower

19.  Bellesguard Tower

  • Sant Gervasi - La Bonanova

In September 2013, the Bellesguard Tower, one of the lesser-known works by Gaudí, opened its doors to the public. The architect was commissioned by Jaume Figueras, and the building is influenced by Gothic and Modernisme styles. Five centuries earlier, in 1409, Martin the Humane, the last king of the House of Barcelona, built his residence in the same spot at the foot of Tibidabo. 

Time Out tip: Join one of the guided tours of the attic area, which also allows access to the roof. Here you can take in stunning views of the city and peep Gaudí's cross, as well as an eye-catching face of a dragon.

Born Centre of Culture and Remembrance

20.  Born Centre of Culture and Remembrance

  • Sant Pere, Santa Caterina i la Ribera

After years of excavations, renovations and more than one dispute with the neighbours, the El Born Centre de Cultura i Memòria finally opened in 2013 as a multipurpose cultural centre in the former El Born marketplace. The iron-and-glass structure was designed by Josep Fontserè in 1876 and was the city’s first market to be built in a Parisian style. Today visitors can see the archaeological remains of the Vilanova de Mar neighbourhood from 1700 and better understand the siege the city suffered in 1714. Huge walkways now criss-cross this impressive cultural centre, which also features exhibition spaces, a bookshop and a food hall. 

Time Out tip: Come for the history, stay for the copious amounts of food, drink, things to buy and things to see in the area.

Colònia Güell

21.  Colònia Güell

Jump on the train or car and head to Santa Coloma de Cervelló, in the Baix Llobregat area, to visit the Colonia Güell. The textile industrialist Eusebi Güell moved his facilities from the Sants neighbourhood to this small town to escape social unrest. Gaudí and his team were commissioned for the project, which included a hospital, food hall, school, theatre, shops, co-operative and chapel, plus factories and housing for the workers. Gaudí built the church crypt after Güell’s death and the project was abandoned halfway through.

Time Out tip: Go on a Saturday morning for the Colònia Güell farmers' market.

Botero’s Cat

22.  Botero’s Cat

This is the most famous cat in the Raval – in fact, in Barcelona. Since the Council bought it from Colombian artist Fernando Botero in 1987, the poor cat has been moved several times. First, it was in Parc de la Ciutadella, near the zoo; then, to coincide with the 1992 Olympic Games, it was moved to the Olympic Stadium; several years later, it was moved again to a square behind Drassanes. Now it seems very happy in its home in the Rambla del Raval, and the neighbours love it.

Time Out tip: While you're here, head ten minutes west to La Rambla de les Flors, which has maintained the spirit of the 19th century. You’ll find 100-year-old stands, like Flors María, as well as other colourful shops.

Parc del Laberint d’Horta

23.  Parc del Laberint d’Horta

  • Horta - Guinardó

This vast and incredibly well-manicured maze sits within the oldest park in the city. You’ll find it in the Horta neighbourhood, where, if you ever make it out of the labyrinth, you can mooch around a Neoclassical 18th-century garden and a 19th-century romantic one, plus the Desvalls mansion and an array of fountains and sculptures of mythical Greek characters.

Time Out tip: Bring a picnic. There are stone tables that make for the perfect pit-stop spot.

Cemeteries

24.  Cemeteries

Cemetery visits help cultivate an appreciation for those who came before us. Graveyards don’t have to be gloomy – instead, consider their artistic value. In Poblenou and Montjuïc, the largest cemeteries in Barcelona, you can find examples of a marvellous array of architectural styles, funerary art and permanent works by renowned artists. Plus, they are generally free, surrounded by nature, and full of benches.

Time Out tip: Don’t miss the popular nighttime excursions ( Montjuïc  in March and  Poblenou  in October).

Museu Nacional (MNAC)

25.  Museu Nacional (MNAC)

Catalonia’s national art museum offers a complete overview of Catalan art from the 12th to the 20th centuries. The highlight is its Romanesque collection, featuring one of the oldest and biggest collections of paintings on wood in Europe. The museum’s modern art floor boasts pieces from an array of media up to the 1950s, including sculpture, painting, photography, posters, cinema, architecture and decorative arts.

Time Out tip: The climb from Plaça d’Espanya up to the museum is just as worthwhile as the museum.

Palau de la Música Catalana

26.  Palau de la Música Catalana

  • Music venues

When you visit the Palau de la Música, all your senses sit up and take notice because every inch tells a story of modernisme, music and Catalonia. It was built in 1908 by Lluís Domènech i Montaner and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Muses watch over the main concert hall, and on the façade, you’ll find busts of Palestrina, Bach, Beethoven and Wagner. The programme, predictably, is stellar.

Time Out tip: If you take a guided tour, be sure to ask questions, as they tend to concentrate mainly on the triumphs of the renovation.

Camp Nou

27.  Camp Nou

  • Sport and fitness

FC Barcelona’s home ground, or Lionel Messi’s former stomping ground as it is now (un)officially known. Camp Nou is one of the most visited places in the city and is high up on the bucket list of any big football fan (or fan of stadiums), but it is still incredibly impressive to laypeople. And tall. Standing at the top and looking down is something else. 

Time Out tip: Die-hard fans must check out the Camp Nou Experience, which offers a peek inside various players-only areas. 

Tibidabo Funfair

28.  Tibidabo Funfair

  • Theme parks
  • Vallvidrera, el Tibidabo i les Planes

This is possibly the coolest location for a theme park – on top of a mountain. It’s the only one in the city and you take the steep funicular to get there. There’s a good mix of classic and modern rides, with many suitable for all ages.

Time Out tip: If you don't mind heights, climb Sagrat Cor next door. You can reach the feet of the massive Jesus that sits up top – almost 600 metres from the base of the mountain.

Casa Planells

29.  Casa Planells

In the middle of Avinguda Diagonal stands Casa Planells, a building by Josep Maria Jujol – another of the great Catalan modernists, but more discreet than his contemporaries. In a tiny area, he managed to design an impressive building without overdoing the embellishments and with a rounded façade. Inside, the most striking aspects are the staircase and wrought iron railing. It doesn't look boring from the outside, either. It's small and quirky, unlike La Sagrada Família (just up the road), which is massive (and quirky).

Time Out tip: Get your fill of Catalan modernism with a trip to nearby Casa Vicens. It was the first major architectural assignment Antoni Gaudí got and it only opened its doors to the public for the first time in 2017.

Montjuïc

30.  Montjuïc

It’s hard to imagine a hill with more things to see and do. If you fancy a day’s walk through parks and gardens, Montjuïc is a good option. You can visit the  castle  (originally a fortress and, after the Civil War, a military museum) , and then explore some of the most beautiful landscaped gardens in Europe. Among the very best are the  Gardens of Laribal  (with a lovely waterfall), the  Albéniz Mansion , the Gardens of  Mossèn Cinto Verdaguer  (dedicated to bulbs, rhizomes and aquatic plants), and the  Gardens of Joan Brossa  (a brilliant example of land restoration; for more than 30 years this was the Montjuïc amusement park).

Time Out tip: Hungry? Eat al fresco at Caseta del Migdia with Barcelona at your feet. Their BBQ combination plate is a particular highlight.

Joan Miró Foundation

31.  Joan Miró Foundation

The Miró Foundation has it all. First, the collection of more than 104,000 Miró works, including paintings, sculptures and tapestries, plus almost all of his drawings. Second, the setting, with its spectacular gardens and views of Barcelona from the top of Montjuïc. Third, the building was designed by Josep Lluís Sert, architect, co-founder of GATCPAC (Catalan Architects and Technicians for Progress in Contemporary Architecture) and a great friend of Miró. Fourth, the events they put on, many of which are for families. You can’t afford to miss it!

Time Out tip:  Photography fan? The foundation also houses the Joaquim Gomis Archive, which is a collection of 70,000 photos and documents.

Barcelona University

32.  Barcelona University

The most important building in Plaça de la Universitat is, obviously, the historic home of Barcelona University. It became a centre for education in 1871 and housed Barcelona’s main faculties and departments for an entire century, divided into arts and science quadrangles. It now houses the maths and philology departments. 

Time Out tip: Want to nosey inside? Join a guided tour. You'll get to see the most impressive areas of the building: main lobby, assembly hall, staircase of honour and the cloisters.

Mercat de les Flors / Teatre Lliure

33.  Mercat de les Flors / Teatre Lliure

  • El Poble-sec

British theatre director Peter Brook is credited with transforming this former flower market into a venue for the performing arts in 1985 when he was looking for a place to stage his legendary production of The Mahabharata. After decades of relatively diffuse programming, the Mercat has finally focused on national and international contemporary dance and offers a strong programme that experiments with unusual formats and mixes in new technologies and live music.

Time Out tip: No hablo Español? No problem. Many of the productions in the main space have English surtitles on Saturday evenings.

Ciutadella Park

34.  Ciutadella Park

  • Parks and gardens

Ciutadella Park is close to the city centre and is the green space most frequented by locals. There’s much to see across its 17 hectares; the  zoo , the  Catalan Parliament  buildings, the church, lake, bandstand and more. 

Time Out tip: Before you go, check their available activities, which regularly include markets and fairs, sporting events, concerts, DJ sessions, children’s parties, charity events and much more.

Palau Güell

35.  Palau Güell

Palau Güell may not be Gaudí’s most well-known work, but it was his first major project for the Catalan capital. A perfect combination of old-fashioned opulence and stylised modernism, this UNESCO World Heritage mansion will have you picturing yourself rolling up in a horse-drawn carriage. Tucked down a narrow street in the Raval, Palau Güell, designed by Gaudí for his patron Count Güell, stands today as a symbol of Catalan nationalism. 

Time Out tip: As you explore the house, notice how the rising levels (from the modest basement to the ostentatiously colourful roof with 20 mosaic chimneys) reflect the motif of wealth.

Santa Maria del Mar

36.  Santa Maria del Mar

One of the best surviving examples of the Catalan Gothic style, this graceful basilica stands out for its characteristic horizontal lines, plain surfaces, square buttresses and flat-topped octagonal towers. Its superb unity of style is down to the fact that it was built relatively quickly, with construction taking just 55 years (1329 to 1384). There’s also some stunning stained glass, especially the great 15th-century rose window above the main door. The original window fell down during an earthquake, killing 25. The incongruous modern window at the other end was a 1997 addition, belatedly celebrating the Olympics.

Time Out tip: Santa Maria del Mar is a traditional venue for concerts: look out for a Requiem Mass at Easter and Handel's Messiah at Christmas.

The Jewish Quarter (El Call)

37.  The Jewish Quarter (El Call)

The  ancient synagogue  of Barcelona – the oldest in Europe – can be found in the Old Jewish Quarter between C/ del Call, Plaça Sant Jaume, C/ Banys Nous and C/ Sant Sever. The narrow streets are a joy to wander and contain an array of Jewish cultural institutions. 

Time Out tip: Head to MUHBA El Call to see ritual lamps, headstones and some great temporary exhibitions.

Plaça de la Virreina

38.  Plaça de la Virreina

Gràcia is full of beautiful squares and great bars; this  plaça , however, has the most appeal for us. For its friendly, cosmopolitan atmosphere, for the church that overlooks it, for being a meeting place for locals and the rest of Barcelona, and for the healthy rivalry between the three main bars. Try them all!

Time Out tip: If you have the kids with you, head to Bateau Lune at number 7 – one of the most loveable toy shops in the city, thanks to the warmth of the owners and their incredible inventory.

CCCB

39.  CCCB

Spain’s largest cultural centre was opened in 1994 at the Casa de la Caritat, a former almshouse constructed on the site of a medieval monastery. The massive façade and part of the courtyard remain from the original building; the rest was rebuilt in dramatic contrast, all tilting glass and steel, by architects Piñón and Viaplana, known for the Maremagnum shopping centre at the Barcelona port. Most of the building is given over to exhibitions, but it also hosts music festivals, films, lectures and debates. 

Time Out tip: Want to save some cash? Visit on a Sunday (3-8pm) for free entry or, alterntively, International Museum Day, Museums Night and La Mercè Holidays, when entry is also nada.

Plaça Reial

40.  Plaça Reial

  • Ships and boats

If you head towards the ocean, you’ll probably stumble through Plaça Reial. It contains a handful of palm trees and has a fountain in the middle known as Three Graces. This Neoclassical water feature was designed by Antoni Rovira i Trias, while the chunky lampposts are Gaudí’s. Restaurants and bars surround the square, making for a lively evening hub. And yes, it’s worth keeping a keen eye on your belongings as you pass through.

Time Out tip: Music lovers should step into Jamboree. This long-serving jazz club has been putting on live blues, jazz, hip-hop and dance music twice a day since the 1960s.

Sant Antoni Market

41.  Sant Antoni Market

After almost a decade of renovations, the traders of the provisional market of Sant Antoni returned to the impressive Rovira i Trias building in 2018. The octagonal dome is the crown that structures the market’s cross-shaped corridors. In those closest to the market façade, you’ll find the Encants market. Each part can be visited since they have different schedules. 

Time Out tip: On Sundays, stop by the book market just outside the market on Urgell Street.

Plaça dels Àngels and MACBA

42.  Plaça dels Àngels and MACBA

Slowly the skaters are taking over this square, but they cannot take away from the imposing Museum of Contemporary Art in Barcelona ( MACBA) . It’s an impressive building, designed by the American architect Richard Meier, with a large glass façade and a combination of straight lines and cylindrical shapes. Since its opening in 1995, the MACBA has become the city’s top institution for contemporary art in all its forms.

Time Out tip: La Capella, a former medieval convent on the other side of the square, is free to enter and provides a project space for specially commissioned works.

Plaça de Sant Jaume

43.  Plaça de Sant Jaume

This square is the administrative centre of Barcelona, housing the Catalan Autonomous Government and City Hall. It’s named after the church that once stood here in medieval times and was the site of the main crossroads in the Roman settlement of Barcino. The Roman Forum and Temple of Augustus were also located here, and four columns can still be seen in C/Paradís. Today, most major protests and demonstrations pass through the square.

Time Out tip: Check out the nativity scene at Christmas – it's mightily impressive.

Monestir de Sant Pere de les Puel·les

44.  Monestir de Sant Pere de les Puel·les

Sant Pere de les Puel·les may not be one of the better-known churches in Barcelona, though it should be. It was formerly a Benedictine monastery, but only the church remains from the original building, which was rebuilt after a fire in 1909. Along with its pretty square, packed with restaurants and terraces, this little-known gem is more than worth a visit.

Time Out tip: For a nice lunch spot after the monastery, walk ten minutes over to Parc de Joan Reventós – named for the former president of the Parliament of Catalonia – where there are tree-lined walks and a kids' play area.

Santa Maria del Pi

45.  Santa Maria del Pi

The main façade of this Catalan Gothic-style church in Plaça del Pi features a large rosette of 12 branches from the 14th century. It was destroyed in the fire of 1936 and rebuilt between 1939 and 1943 by architect Josep Maria Jujol. As well as admiring the two octagonal towers that flank it, the enormous bell tower and the image of the Virgin Mary with a child on the tympanum, visitors can catch classical guitar concerts and exhibitions here.

Time Out tip: Visiting in August? Try and time it with the Festes de Sant Roc. This festa major (street festival) in the Gothic Quarter is the oldest in Barcelona, dating back to 1589. There will be dancing, singing, puppets, DJs and more.

Temple of Augustus

46.  Temple of Augustus

Four stunning fluted Corinthian columns dating from the first century BC soar out of their podium in the most unlikely of places: a back patio of the Mountaineering Centre of Catalonia. Part of the rear corner is devoted to the Roman emperor Augustus, and the columns were discovered and isolated from the structure of a medieval building in 1835. The current layout is a slight fudging of the original, as the right-hand column resided separately in  Plaça del Rei  until it was slotted next to the other three in 1956.

Time Out tip: Got the kids in tow? Take them on a tour, Time Machine: From the Romans to the Middle Ages. Exploring the historic quarters at street level and underground, the guide will reveal secrets of the ancient architecture and what the Temple of Augustus must have been like.

Plaça de Prim

47.  Plaça de Prim

Poblenou’s most emblematic square is also home to some of its oldest residences. The humble, white 19th-century buildings that line the square were home to fishermen when Poblenou was a fishing village. Plaça de Prim doesn’t need a lot of frills to seduce passers-by. Three fantastic ombú trees, a less-than-spectacular fountain, a few benches and a single restaurant – but what a restaurant!  Els Pescadors  has the privilege of exclusive terrace rights.

Time Out tip: If you do eat at the Mediterranean joint Els Pescadors, you must get stuck into a selection of their fresh seafood dishes.

Torre Glòries

48.  Torre Glòries

All around Plaça de las Glòries, you’ll find quite a few of Barcelona’s architectural and cultural landmarks. On one side, you’ve got the  Torre Glòries  (formerly Torre Agbar), the work of architect Jean Nouvel that changed the city’s skyline. On the other is the  Mercat de Bellcaire  (aka ‘Encants’) flea market with its impressive wavy roof designed by Fermín Vázquez. But there’s also the  Disseny Hub Barcelona , home to the city’s design museum; the  Teatre Nacional de Catalunya , by Ricardo Bofill; and  L’Auditori , by Rafael Moneo.

Time Out tip: Get a great view of Barcelona from the 125-metre high observation deck of Mirador torre Glòries. Designed by Jean Nouvel in 2005, it looks somewhat like an irridescent version of London's 'Gherkin'.

Santa Caterina Market

49.  Santa Caterina Market

Opened in 1846, the Mercat de Santa Caterina is the city’s second oldest market. The renovation project was carried out by a team of architects led by Enric Miralles and Benedetta Tagliabue, its most distinctive feature probably being the gorgeous mosaic roof made with 325,000 pieces whose colours echo the fruit and vegetable stands beneath.

Time Out tip: If wandering among so much fresh produce makes you hungry, you can eat at Cuines de Santa Caterina, a bustling restaurant with international dishes available from its various bars.

Parc de Cervantes

50.  Parc de Cervantes

You can explore Cervantes Park by walking up from Avinguda Diagonal, where the main entrance is, or down from the Ronda de Dalt for a more relaxed stroll. This vast green space is much appreciated by walkers and athletes for its wide paths and (both) sunny and shady spots. But if anything, it’s known for its rose garden. From the beginning of spring through autumn, more than 10,000 roses fill four hectares of just one small part of the park.

Time Out tip: Since 2001, the garden has been hosting Barcelona’s International New Rose Competition, which takes place in early May and often features never-before-seen hybrid species of roses.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

  • Press office
  • Investor relations
  • Work for Time Out
  • Editorial guidelines
  • Privacy notice
  • Do not sell my information
  • Cookie policy
  • Accessibility statement
  • Terms of use
  • Manage cookies
  • Advertising
  • Time Out Market

Time Out Worldwide

  • Time Out Madrid
  • Time Out London
  • Time Out New York
  • Time Out Paris
  • Time Out Mexico, DF

Where to Go in December in Spain

The Best Cities to Visit around Christmas in Spain

December in Spain, as in most of the western world, is dominated by the family-centric holidays of Christmas and New Year's. As a result, there are fewer events going on around Spain, since a lot of Spaniards go home to visit their loved ones in the more remote villages, leaving some of the cities a little quieter than usual.

Whether you're in the mood to sample local cuisines or you want to attend an annual event, visiting the cities and countryside villages of Spain is still worth it in December. From world-famous exhibitions in Barcelona and food festivals in Costa del Sol, to Christmas lights in Seville and festive events in Madrid, there are still plenty of great things to see and do across the country throughout the month.

December in Barcelona

Barcelona's events calendar in December isn't as full as most months since a lot of residents retreat from the cold to spend time with their families, but there's still more going on than elsewhere in Spain.

Events include two fun-runs (Buff Epic Run and Cursa Dels Nassos), and some performances from the  De Cajon Flamenco Festival , which runs throughout the latter part of the year.

Christmas in Barcelona  is also a very festive time of year, and many of the major thoroughfares will be decorated in holiday lights and colors. There are also plenty of places to stay in December that will be decorated with holiday cheer.

December in Seville

While the Christmas season will be full of festive events and brilliant lighting displays in Seville, the city has a unique event of its own this month: the traditional Dance of the Seises at Seville's cathedral during the Inmaculada Festival on December 8.

Even when the events aren't happening, though, there are plenty of  things to do in Seville . Wander through the heart of Seville's tourist district, Santa Cruz, where you'll find the famous Seville Cathedral and its Giralda Bell Tower, or head to the Real Alcázar de Sevilla, a historic palace built for Peter of Castile.

Accommodations are typically easy to book this month, especially if you're looking to rent a private room in local's apartment while they're gone visiting family for the holidays. There are also a number of great hotels within walking distance of some of the city's biggest attractions.

December in Madrid

As with Barcelona, there aren't that many events going on in Madrid this month, but Christmas is at its biggest and grandest in this capital city. Fortunately, since many residents head back home for the holidays, you will find it easier to eat at a restaurant on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day here than in the rest of the country.

Other popular Madrid events in December include Winter Solstice bonfires in Robledo de Chavela and the San Silvestre Vallecana fun run on New Year's Eve. There are also a number of  Christmas markets throughout the city, and since the  December weather  stays relatively warm all month long, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore these festive attractions.

When it comes to accommodations, most hotels in Madrid have plenty of vacant rooms throughout the month. However, you may want to book your New Year's Eve accommodations early since they might book up before December (this is where the biggest NYE gathering in the country takes place, after all).

December in Costa del Sol

If you have access to a car, the Costa del Sol has a few events spread out that are worth a look. The Costa del Sol is usually seen as a summer destination, but if you aren't desperate for beaches, there is still plenty to do in the region even in winter .

The Migas Festival in Torrax, for instance, celebrates the simple "peasant's favorite" dish of fried breadcrumbs known as  migas, while the Verdiales Festival in Malaga  celebrates a specific type of flamenco dancing with performances by troupes from across the country.

Additionally, visitors can take an icy plunge with locals during the Polar Bear Swim in Gibraltar, which takes place on Boxing Day (December 26) each year.

However, since these events are spread along the south coast of Spain, you'll need to find a centrally located destination to spend the night. Staying in Malaga is your best bet if you want to hit up all of these festivals, and there are plenty of accommodation options in the area

December in Salamanca

Salamanca is a student town, so a lot of the city's inhabitants go away for Christmas and New Year. However, to celebrate with their friends, they often host an early New Year's celebration in the town square for everyone where everyone is welcome to join.

Otherwise, Salamanca is relatively quiet in terms of events in December. The New Cathedral and the Plaza Mayor are the biggest draws in the city, but the uniform sandstone architecture and hip eateries of Universidad Civil make it a great destination as well.

As far as accommodations go, you can rent an apartment recently vacated by a college student at the University of Salamanca who went home for the winter break or find a cheap hotel room nearby.

December All Over Spain

There are also a number of events that take place across Spain throughout the month of December. From the El Gordo Lottery Draw to New Year's Eve celebrations, you're sure to find a way to experience the local culture of Spain during your trip.

El Gordo Lottery

Spain has the  biggest lottery  in the world (by total prize fund). The vast majority of the population has a stake in the lottery, either as part of a syndicate or ​with an individual ticket. Every year on December 22, TVs and radios will be tuned in to hear the results (which takes several hours) of the  El Gordo Christmas Lottery . Get a ticket and join in the fun anywhere in the country.

Christmas in Spain is a family affair, and  Christmas Eve  is a bigger event than Christmas Day, with families gathering for an extended meal. Restaurants may be closed on one or both days, and will almost certainly require reservations if they are open.  Madrid and Barcelona,  as the biggest cities, have the most life to them around this time.

New Year's Eve

New Year's Eve is also largely a family event in Spain. The stroke of midnight is either spent in the main square of a city or at home. Most bars will be closed, opening around 1 a.m. for a night of revelry after the family celebrations end. Wherever you choose to celebrate, make sure you have twelve grapes to eat at each gong of midnight—a nationwide tradition in Spain .

Plan the Perfect Trip to Spain

Guide to Bus and Train Travel in Spain

The Best Time to Visit Spain

August in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Spain's Must-See Sights and Attractions: City by City

Best Spain Tours Starting From Madrid

Where to See a Bullfight in Malaga, Ronda, or the Costa del Sol

How Long Should You Spend in Each City in Spain?

Spain's Best Tapas Cities

October in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

Top 15 Events in Spain in August

February in Spain: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See

The 20 Best Things to Do in Spain

How to Celebrate Christmas and New Years in Spain

Best Cities to Visit in Spain in November

Top 10 Spanish Dishes to Try While In Spain

Protect Your Trip »

Best places to visit in december 2024.

Planning a vacation in December can feel overwhelming alongside holiday shopping and year-end festivities. But you'll thank yourself later if you squeeze in time for a trip before the new year. U.S. News considered prices, events, accessibility and seasonal crowds to decide the best places to visit in December. Whether you're seeking a warm-weather hideaway or want to experience the holiday spirit in a snow-covered town, you'll find it in these destinations. Vote for your favorite spot below to help decide next year's list.

London, England

U.s. virgin islands, french alps, torres del paine national park, hawaii - the big island, new york city, rio de janeiro, quebec city.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

London is abuzz with holiday-themed activities in December. Holiday pop-ups transform attractions like Hyde Park and the London Zoo, while Christmas ballets and concerts take over the city's legendary entertainment scene. What's more, "Harry Potter" fans can opt for a festive tour during the Hogwarts in the Snow event at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Chilly temperatures in the 40s and rainy conditions mean it's the perfect time to don your coziest jumper. Plus, London's rainy day standbys like the Tower of London and the British Museum are typically less crowded at this time of year.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

If you're seeking palm-fringed festivities without the need for a passport, look no further than the U.S. Virgin Islands. December is the start of the dry season in this Caribbean island chain, and average temperatures in the 70s and 80s are perfect for lounging on beautiful white sand beaches like Magens Bay or snorkeling in Virgin Islands National Park. Plus, you'll get a taste of the islands' vibrant culture during the Crucian Christmas Festival, which takes place on St. Croix at the end of the month. Partake in the merriment with parades, music competitions and more.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Snow-capped mountains, quaint villages and mouthwatering cuisine (much of which involves some form of melted cheese) make the French Alps a classic winter getaway. Most ski resorts open by early December, so you can get an early start on the slopes for the season, or just take part in the lively après-ski experience in iconic destinations like Val d'Isère and Chamonix. What's more, many villages like the châteaux-studded Annecy amp up the charm with cozy Christmas markets throughout the month. Winter in the Alps is never cheap, but try visiting earlier in the month before school holidays for the best room rates.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Make the trek to the Finnish Lapland for the ultimate Arctic experience. Finland's northernmost region promises a deep layer of snow all winter, perfect for skiing or sledding down the longest toboggan run in Europe. Most flights to this region land in Rovaniemi, home to Santa Claus Village, where you can meet the man in red, step across the Arctic Circle or embark on a reindeer sleigh ride. Though you'll only see about four hours of daylight, this makes for prime conditions to view the dazzling aurora borealis from the comfort of one of the glass hotels in the region.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

December is one of the most popular months to visit the Bahamas – and for good reason. By the time this month rolls around, the threat of hurricanes has passed, making it terrific time to enjoy the outdoors. Spend your days lounging on one of the Bahamas' many beaches, snorkeling or diving in the crystal-clear water or taking a boat tour to a private island . What's more, if you're visiting around the holidays, you'll catch the travel-worthy Junkanoo festival , which celebrates Bahamian culture with parades and festivities on Boxing Day and New Year's Day.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Although Phuket, Thailand, offers a consistently warm climate year-round, its dry weather and calm water in December make this month a great time to visit. Plan on spending most of your time sunbathing, swimming, scuba diving and more at beautiful beaches like Nai Harn and Kata Noi. But remember, December falls within Phuket's peak tourist season, so you won't find many deals for flights and accommodations during this month. Avoid a holiday visit in late December for slightly better rates.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Located in the eastern Himalayas, Bhutan is a backpacker's dream due to its breathtaking landscapes and unmatched preservation. The remote kingdom's focus on cultural and environmental sustainability means heritage sites like the cliff-clinging Paro Taktsang and the riverside Punakha Dzong are never overcrowded. But cooler winter temperatures (averages range from the 30s to the 60s, depending on elevation) mean you'll encounter even fewer tourists. While a trip to this intriguing destination won't be cheap, a low-season visit can drive down the price of lodging and tours.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Nestled in southern Chilean Patagonia, this national park offers travelers a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Hailed among hikers as one of the most scenic destinations in the world, the park is home to turquoise lakes and dense forests, plus massive Grey Glacier and the towering granite of Cuernos del Paine. December offers up to 17 hours of daylight, allowing plenty of time for extensive hikes. But even though December is part of Patagonia's peak summer season, temperatures drop dramatically after nightfall, so visitors will want to pack layers.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

This Hawaiian paradise is the perfect place to escape winter's onset. Weary travelers can thaw on colorful beaches like Punalu'u Beach (which has beautiful black sand ) and Papakolea Beach (a unique green sand option), while more adventurous types can go for a hike in 'Akaka Falls State Park or catch a glimpse of the more than 4,000-foot-tall Kilauea volcano at Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park. You'll likely contend with other snowbirds in December, but you'll find that hotel prices on the Big Island are still consistently lower than those on neighboring isles.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

If Old Man Winter has you dreaming of warming things up, consider a trip to the Spice Island. Grenada, a tiny island in the Caribbean known for its aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, boasts steady temps in the 80s. And since December sits just between the rainy season and high tourism season, it's the perfect time to catch some rays without the crowds (or cost) of the months to come. Spend your days lounging on Grand Anse Beach or sampling the island's rich flavors at local markets or the House of Chocolate.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

It's not surprising that dozens of holiday movies are set in New York. Dazzling sights like the iconic Christmas tree and ice skating rink at Rockefeller Center, decked-out window displays at Macy's and horse-drawn carriages in Central Park conjure up holiday cheer throughout the city. And while this metropolis offers plenty to do throughout the year, festive shows, Christmas-themed pop-up experiences and even the nip in the air make December one of New York's most magical months. Just be prepared for a bit of sticker shock; the holiday season is also one of the most popular (and expensive) times of year to visit.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

If you're willing to brave the cold, travel to Prague for a fun and festive winter vacation. The city turns into a winter wonderland in December, with snow-dusted buildings and Christmas markets selling everything from locally made jewelry to toys to Christmas ornaments. Those with little ones in tow should try to arrive in early December when the annual St. Nicholas Eve event takes place. During this traditional celebration, you'll see Czechia's version of St. Nick, along with his angel and devil guides, hand out candy and other treats as they walk around the city.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

While the Northern Hemisphere transitions to winter in December, Rio de Janeiro enters its peak summer season. And although this is one of the wettest times of the year here, you'll still enjoy optimal warmth and mostly sunny conditions. As such, there will be plenty of opportunities to see must-visit sights like the Christ the Redeemer statue or Sugarloaf Mountain. If you're keen on experiencing Rio's lively party scene during your visit, be sure to time your trip around Réveillon. This popular New Year's Eve celebration on Copacabana Beach draws millions of people annually with its music, dancing and fireworks.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

The holiday season in Germany's fourth largest city can only be described as magical. Cologne hosts a handful of Christmas markets, including the popular Advent village at Cologne Cathedral, which boasts 150 stalls. When you're not taking in the city's imposing architecture or getting into the jovial spirit with a glass of Kölsch beer (a Cologne original), pop into Museum Ludwig to view modern art or the Chocolate Museum for tasty samples. Combat the dreary weather – average highs are in the low 40s and rain is common – by soaking away the chill at a thermal spa such as Neptunbad or Claudius Therme.

best places to visit in barcelona in december

It's easy to fall in love with this Canadian destination, especially when it's covered in fresh snow. You'll be enchanted by Old Québec's sights and sounds as it transforms into a Christmas village. Shop for gifts (or for yourself) in Quartier Petit-Champlain, home to one of the oldest shopping streets in North America. Plus, with its 17th- and 18th-century architecture, French-speaking Quebec City allows you to soak up European culture without dropping the cash for a flight across the pond. Just be sure to bundle up; temperatures can drop to the single digits in December.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

best places to visit in barcelona in december

St. Augustine

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Sanibel Island

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Leavenworth

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Todos Santos

best places to visit in barcelona in december

You May Be Interested In

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Best Christmas Vacations

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Best Places to Visit in November 2024

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Best Places to Visit in January 2024

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Best Places to Visit in Winter

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Best Winter Family Vacations

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Best Ski Trips in the U.S.

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

best places to visit in barcelona in december

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

best places to visit in barcelona in december

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

best places to visit in barcelona in december

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

best places to visit in barcelona in december

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

best places to visit in barcelona in december

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

best places to visit in barcelona in december

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

best places to visit in barcelona in december

The 26 Best Zoos in the U.S.

Rachael Hood November 16, 2023

best places to visit in barcelona in december

44 Cheap Tropical Vacations That Feel Expensive

Holly Johnson|Alissa Grisler November 10, 2023

best places to visit in barcelona in december

Money Talks News

Money Talks News

The 4 Best Places to Live in Europe for Sunshine Lovers

Posted: December 11, 2023 | Last updated: December 12, 2023

<p>Aside from a party, not much is taken too seriously here€¦</p> <p>People are casual, friendly, and neighborly. Folks here are friendly and everyone is ready to chat.</p> <p>Of course, this can work both ways€¦ it’s the source of the famous “<em>mañana </em>attitude” that’s so common.</p> <h3>Sponsored: Find a vetted financial advisor</h3> <ol> <li>Finding a fiduciary financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. <a rel="sponsored noopener" href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/out/aff_c?offer_id=33&aff_id=1000&ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.msn.com%2Fslideshows%2Fmy-favorite-things-about-living-in-spain%2F">In five minutes, SmartAsset's free tool matches you with up to 3 financial advisors serving your area.</a></li> <li>Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. <a rel="sponsored noopener" href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/out/aff_c?offer_id=33&aff_id=1000&ref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.msn.com%2Fslideshows%2Fmy-favorite-things-about-living-in-spain%2F">Get on the path toward achieving your financial goals!</a></li> </ol> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

Editor's Note: This story originally appeared on Live and Invest Overseas .

“It rains more here than back in England!”

Over tea and madeleines yesterday, my British friend Lucy groused a bit about the recent weather. A recent transplant to Paris from the U.K., she hadn’t expected to see as much precipitation here as her home country is famous for.

“At least back home it’s just a steady mist or fine drizzle, you can still live your life,” she continued. “It’s been pouring here for days and you just can’t imagine leaving the house in it!”

Here in Paris, it’s been rainy for weeks, and we haven’t seen much of the sky, just lots of gray clouds of late. I can’t complain, though €¦ honestly, I love this moody, broody atmosphere in the fall.

But I recognize it’s not what most people imagine when they plan for a new life in Europe. And even I admit, when November rolls around in Northern Europe, it’s hard not to let your mind wander south.

Here are my top picks for a new life in Europe’s sunnier, southern climes.

Join 1.2 million Americans saving an average of $991.20 with Money Talks News. Sign up for our FREE newsletter today.

Sponsored: Find a vetted financial advisor

  • Finding a fiduciary financial advisor doesn’t have to be hard. In five minutes, SmartAsset's free tool matches you with up to 3 financial advisors serving your area.
  • Each advisor has been vetted by SmartAsset and is held to a fiduciary standard to act in your best interests. Get on the path toward achieving your financial goals!

Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.

<p>Spain’s southern coast has long been famous for its year-round sunshine€¦</p> <p>From the famous Costa del Sol all the way along the coast through Valencia and up to Barcelona, there’s no shortage of fantastic havens to choose from that promise <a href="https://www.liveandinvestoverseas.com/country-hub/europe/spain/climate-in-spain/" rel="noopener">sandy beaches and plenty of warm days</a> in which to enjoy them.</p> <p>Hometown of Picasso and a city renowned for its arts culture, Malaga gets roughly 320 days of sunshine per year in its position on the Mediterranean coast.</p> <p>This part of Spain, the uber-famous Costa del Sol, has been well-populated by Brits for many decades already, so it’s easy to get by speaking English here.</p> <p>Beaches are a few minutes’ walk from the city center, mountains just 30 minutes to the north, and the city boasts a wealth of historic sites.</p> <p>That said, Malaga isn’t my first choice in Spain. I’d opt for Valencia or Barcelona myself.</p>

1. Spain: 3,000+ sunshine hours per year

Spain’s southern coast has long been famous for its year-round sunshine€¦

From the famous Costa del Sol all the way along the coast through Valencia and up to Barcelona, there’s no shortage of fantastic havens to choose from that promise sandy beaches and plenty of warm days in which to enjoy them.

Hometown of Picasso and a city renowned for its arts culture, Malaga gets roughly 320 days of sunshine per year in its position on the Mediterranean coast.

This part of Spain, the uber-famous Costa del Sol, has been well-populated by Brits for many decades already, so it’s easy to get by speaking English here.

Beaches are a few minutes’ walk from the city center, mountains just 30 minutes to the north, and the city boasts a wealth of historic sites.

That said, Malaga isn’t my first choice in Spain. I’d opt for Valencia or Barcelona myself.

<p>I called my wife, Kathleen. She’s a fairly conservative investor. Her first reaction was to tell me I was crazy to be thinking about investing in Spain €¦ in a pre-construction project. What did we know about buying pre-construction <a href="https://www.liveandinvestoverseas.com/country-hub/europe/spain/real-estate/" rel="noopener">real estate in Spain</a>?</p> <p>While a 10-day trip couldn’t be called an all-encompassing education in Spanish real estate, it was enough, as I explained to Kathleen, for me to know a good deal in property when I saw one. She begrudgingly agreed to buying a unit because I was there and she wasn’t. She had to trust my instincts. And, in the end, she sure was glad she did.</p> <p>That purchase falls into the top 10 of my more than 60 real estate investments over the years. The developer sold the apartment for me before it was completed. The returns were almost 100% profit over the less than two years that I held the property.</p> <p>Education lessens perceived risk and puts it into better perspective, but it doesn’t eliminate risk.</p> <p>Some risk factors are out of your control. Agents, sellers, markets, currencies, Mother Nature, governments €¦ these are all risk factors, and all the education in the world can’t reduce them all to zero.</p> <h3>Sponsored: Add $1.7 million to your retirement</h3> <p>A recent Vanguard study revealed a self-managed $500,000 investment grows into an average $1.7 million in 25 years. But under the care of a pro, the average is $3.4 million. That’s an extra $1.7 million!</p> <p>Maybe that’s why the wealthy use investment pros and why you should too. How? With SmartAsset’s free <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">financial adviser matching tool</a>. In five minutes you’ll have up to three qualified local pros, each legally required to act in your best interests. Most offer free first consultations. What have you got to lose? <strong><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/smartasset-msn-nine">Click here to check it out right now.</a></strong></p> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

Sun and fun in Valencia and Barcelona

Valencia is a cosmopolitan city full of parks and green spaces, and it’s won countless accolades, from “most pleasant place to live as a foreigner” (first out of 50 cities in InterNations’ Expat City Ranking 2022) to “Green Capital of the Future” (2024 winner).

It’s innovative, full of art, and even offers beaches, just a 20-minute metro or bus ride from the city center.

Barcelona’s beaches were created in 1992 and have since become one of the stunning city’s biggest draws. I’m a city girl who loves history and art, and Barcelona has a wealth of both in addition to its seaside attractions.

If I were to move from Paris, I’ve often said that Barcelona would be my first choice for a new home.

Between the art, the history, the nightlife, the mountains, and the beaches, there’s something in Spain for everyone.

<p>At the far eastern edge of the Mediterranean, blessed with year-round warm weather, clear blue waters, and over 400 miles of coastline, lies Cyprus, Isle of Aphrodite.</p> <p>On an island frequented by millions of tourists and expats, English has become so commonly spoken that you’d never have to learn Greek or Turkish.</p> <p>The food in Cyprus is light, fresh, and tasty, and the Mediterranean diet is proven to help prevent heart disease and Alzheimer’s.</p> <p>Hibiscus, oleander, and daisies blossom across the island, from the coast to the foot of its mountains, while fig, lemon, and orange trees everywhere offer shade and the occasional free treat.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/the-best-outdoor-home-upgrades-for-the-money/">Related: The 10 Best Outdoor Home Upgrades for Your Money</a></p>

2. Cyprus: 3,803 sunshine hours per year

For about 320 days a year, the sun shines full-faced on Cyprus , legendary birthplace of Aphrodite, Goddess of Love.

Ever dream of living on a quiet island in the middle of the Mediterranean, but it always seemed out of your price range?

With white-sand beaches, warm water, year-round sunshine, and one of the world’s healthiest diets, Cyprus, the third largest island in the Mediterranean, could be the answer.

This lesser-known corner of Europe is a welcoming land of ancient history, and romance.

With real estate and day-to-day living expenses at a fraction of the cost of mainland Europe, Cyprus is quickly becoming a popular retirement destination for expats from around the globe.

Related: Marooned at Home? Earn Some Cash Playing on Your Computer

<p>Cyprus may be an off-the-radar choice for North Americans, but that doesn’t mean it’s an unheard-of retire-overseas destination.</p> <p>A strong expat community made up of mostly Brits and people from other parts of Europe has established itself here.</p> <p>As a former Crown colony, English is widely spoken across Cyprus. Having a language in common with the locals breaks down barriers. In short, it makes it easier to settle here.</p> <p>Beyond its beaches, Cyprus is a place to embrace the outdoors. Cyprus has world-class golf courses with sweeping views over the ocean and hiking trails through its mountains and forests.</p> <p>Cyprus is exploding with ancient sites of history and culture.</p> <p>From Neolithic villages and tombs to Roman amphitheaters to medieval castles €¦ the island is a testament to its rich history, much of it in a well-preserved state.</p> <h3>Try a newsletter custom-made for you!</h3> <p>We’ve been in the business of offering money news and advice to millions of Americans for 32 years. Every day, in the <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=blurb#newsletter" rel="noopener">Money Talks Newsletter</a> we provide tips and advice to save more, invest like a pro and lead a richer, fuller life.</p> <p>And it doesn’t cost a dime.</p> <p>Our readers report saving an average of $941 with our simple, direct advice, as well as finding new ways to stay healthy and enjoy life.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=blurb#newsletter" rel="noopener">Click here to sign up.</a> It only takes two seconds. And if you don’t like it, it only takes two seconds to unsubscribe. Don’t worry about spam: We never share your email address.</p> <p>Try it. You’ll be glad you did!</p> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

Expat community in Cyprus

Cyprus may be an off-the-radar choice for North Americans, but that doesn’t mean it’s an unheard-of retire-overseas destination.

A strong expat community made up of mostly Brits and people from other parts of Europe has established itself here.

As a former Crown colony, English is widely spoken across Cyprus. Having a language in common with the locals breaks down barriers. In short, it makes it easier to settle here.

Beyond its beaches, Cyprus is a place to embrace the outdoors. Cyprus has world-class golf courses with sweeping views over the ocean and hiking trails through its mountains and forests.

Cyprus is exploding with ancient sites of history and culture.

From Neolithic villages and tombs to Roman amphitheaters to medieval castles €¦ the island is a testament to its rich history, much of it in a well-preserved state.

Try a newsletter custom-made for you!

We’ve been in the business of offering money news and advice to millions of Americans for 32 years. Every day, in the Money Talks Newsletter we provide tips and advice to save more, invest like a pro and lead a richer, fuller life.

And it doesn’t cost a dime.

Our readers report saving an average of $941 with our simple, direct advice, as well as finding new ways to stay healthy and enjoy life.

Click here to sign up. It only takes two seconds. And if you don’t like it, it only takes two seconds to unsubscribe. Don’t worry about spam: We never share your email address.

Try it. You’ll be glad you did!

<p>The next region in Italy for <a href="https://www.liveandinvestoverseas.com/in-focus-europe/buying-real-estate-in-abruzzo-italy/" rel="noopener">cheap real estate is Abruzzo</a>. Situated to the east of Rome along the Adriatic, Abruzzo is one of the wildest and last undiscovered places in Italy. Boasting hills, mountains, and ancient towns, it’s unlike anywhere else in the country.</p> <p>Of course, everything you would expect from Italy is present: delicious food and wine, hot summers, and architecture. But Abruzzo also has other charms, like snowcapped mountains where you can ski in the winter. In Abruzzo, the towns and way of life have a timeless quality and seem a million miles from the major cities.</p> <p>If you are looking to live the quiet life in a remote village, you can buy houses for under $50,000.</p> <p>If you prefer a small town, the likes of Teramo and Chieti have properties around the $50,000 mark. The popular stone buildings in this region keep the houses cool in the summer and have open fireplaces to keep things cozy in the winter.</p> <p>Living in Italy requires learning the language. Unlike many of the countries we cover, English is not widely spoken. Italians are generally welcoming to foreigners, but if you can’t speak the language, you could find yourself a bit isolated.</p> <p>Plenty of expats live in Italy, but the nature of countryside living makes it unlikely you will find many expats close by.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/3-ways-get-paid-for-searching-the-web/">Related: 3 Ways to Get Paid for Searching the Web</a></p>

3. Italy: 2,300+ sunshine hours per year

Northern Italy gets less sun exposure, but if you look from the center of the boot down, you’re guaranteed at least 2,000 hours a year.

Abruzzo, one of my favorite regions in Italy, boasts over 2,300 hours of sunshine, and it offers both beaches and nearby mountains for hiking or skiing in the winter.

Go farther south to Puglia or Calabria, and you’re looking at more than 2,500 hours a year.

Sicily and Sardinia, Italy’s two largest islands, both see over 3,000 hours a year, and offer some of the most idyllic, rustic lifestyles in Europe.

<p>Pompeii, the most visited archaeological site in the world, is not to be missed. You can reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site easily from Naples or Sorrento, or even on a day trip from Rome.</p> <p>At the base of Mount Vesuvius lies the remains of the city of Pompeii, devastated when Vesuvius erupted in 79 A.D. It is one of the best-preserved examples of ancient life we can see today.</p> <p>Walking around Pompeii gives you a feeling of what life was like almost 2,000 years ago. You can see houses, shops, public spaces, and most tragically, plaster casts of the bodies of people who called Pompeii their home before the cataclysmic event interred them in ash.</p> <h3>Get smarter with your money!</h3> <p>Want the best money-news and tips to help you make more and spend less? Then <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=blurb#newsletter" rel="noopener">sign up for the free Money Talks Newsletter</a> to receive daily updates of personal finance news and advice, delivered straight to your inbox. <a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=blurb#newsletter" rel="noopener">Sign up for our free newsletter today.</a></p> <p class="disclosure"><em>Advertising Disclosure: When you buy something by clicking links on our site, we may earn a small commission, but it never affects the products or services we recommend.</em></p>

Plenty to explore in Italy

Along with its generous stretches of coastline, Italy offers one of the most varied landscapes on Earth, including scenic mountain ranges and stunning lakes.

Home of the Roman Empire, Italy maintains a solid connection to its past, with hundreds of ruins still visible in many cities and towns.

The Renaissance is also seen across the country, with some of the most famously beautiful architecture in the world.

Art galleries, museums, cultural tours, delicious cuisine, local wines, festivals, and historic train routes abound.

Plus, la dolce vita (“the sweet life”) is much more affordable than you think.

<p>Most tourists to <a href="https://www.liveandinvestoverseas.com/countries/portugal/what-i-love-about-sunny-portugal/?sc=lios-site-essay" rel="noreferrer noopener">Portugal </a>make a beeline for the beaches of the Algarve or focus their time in the capital city of Lisbon. And we understand. As longtime Live and Invest Overseas readers know, we’re big fans of both those destinations.</p> <p>However, just offshore from mainland Portugal are two unique archipelagos that also deserve your attention: the Azores and Madeira. Both offer pristine landscapes, unspoiled nature, and adventurous travel experiences.</p> <p>The Azores’ natural beauty is jaw-dropping. Some have called the nine islands that make up the archipelago “the Hawaii of the mid-Atlantic.”</p> <p>The islands were formed by volcanic activity centuries ago, and dramatic scenery dominates the landscape. There are sharp peaks and valleys sheathed in green as well as fine-sand beaches, lagoons, geysers, waterfalls, and thermal baths.</p> <p>The Azores won the award for Europe’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination in 2021 and 2020. There are hiking tours, cycling, mountain biking, and canyoning available on land.</p> <p>Mount Pico, the highest point in Portugal at 7,700 feet, is found here, and you can hike to the top of it for outstanding views. Fishing, diving, yachting, and especially whale and dolphin watching are ocean-based highlights of the Azores.</p> <p><a href="https://www.moneytalksnews.com/slideshows/7-things-retirees-can-get-for-almost-nothing/">Related: 13 Things Retirees Can Get for Free — or Almost Free</a></p>

4. Portugal: 2,500 to 3,200 sunshine hours per year

Depending on where you go in Portugal , you’re guaranteed at least 280 sunny days per year. Capital city Lisbon is known for its clear sunny skies, and the southern coast, the Algarve, has long attracted Brits for its sun exposure.

Expats enjoy Portugal’s beautiful landscapes, historical architecture, stunning beaches, and welcoming residency programs. It’s also one of the most consistently peaceful countries in the world.

Nowadays, Portugal is home to 700,000 expats: mostly Europeans and North Americans.

Expat Jeff Woodruff says, “We found the climate comparable to what we had in California.

“Portugal gets more than 300 sunny days per year, and its climate is mild year-round. We don’t worry about exorbitant heating or air conditioning bills thanks to reduced need and reasonable energy rates.”

More for You

Fox News (Photo: Fox News)

Fox News Host Crashes Donald Trump Speech With Blunt Reminder For Ex-President

Clarence Thomas accused of ‘new low’ for hiring clerk accused of texting ‘I HATE BLACK PEOPLE’

Clarence Thomas accused of ‘new low’ for hiring clerk accused of texting ‘I HATE BLACK PEOPLE’

DeSantis signs law to release records that could explain why Jeffrey Epstein got minimal charges in Florida

DeSantis signs law to release records that could explain why Jeffrey Epstein got minimal charges in Florida

George Galloway gives his victory speech from the podium after being declared winner of the Rochdale by-election following the count

Galloway’s landslide means all bets are off for the next election

Angela A. Chao hosts The New York City Opera Pre-Gala Celebration at a private residence in New York City on Oct. 21, 2010.

Death of shipping CEO Angela Chao under 'criminal investigation,' Texas sheriff says

Top Authors

Dave Ramsey: 3 ‘Dumb’ Social Security Myths You’ll Want To Avoid

Donald Trump

Donald Trump Corrected by Sean Hannity Live On-Air

Russian dictator Vladimir Putin (Getty Images)

Peace on Russia's terms: What Kremlin offered Ukraine to end war

Jun 13, 2023; Miami, FL, USA; Trump attorney Alina Habba reacts after talking to reporters outside the Wilkie D. Ferguson Jr. U.S. Courthouse where former President Donald Trump is set to appear to be arraigned as he faces 37 criminal charges.

Alina Habba did argue with a judge, but she didn't forget to check off 'jury' box | Fact check

NCIS-Tony-Michael-Weatherly.png

NCIS fans left feeling vindicated as two characters return for spin-off series

The Man Who Now Controls the U.S. Border

The Man Who Now Controls the U.S. Border

Hummingbirds at feeder

Mistakes Everyone Makes When Cleaning Hummingbird Feeders

Donald Trump Issues Bizarre Religious Accusation Against Joe Biden

Donald Trump Risks Losing Financial Lifeline

France’s Macron urges Israel to ‘stop this bombing’ in Gaza

Macron doubles down on Ukraine remarks after blowback

McDonald’s brings back huge fan favourite and a ‘mouthwatering’ burger

McDonald’s brings back huge fan favourite and a ‘mouthwatering’ burger

Marcus Maye.

Saints plan to release veteran safety

Jack Smith is essentially being implicitly rebuked by the Supreme Court: Andrew Bailey

Jack Smith is essentially being implicitly rebuked by the Supreme Court: Andrew Bailey

Image of a brain scan

Scientists may now know what is causing long COVID

German warship accidentally opened fire on an American drone, nearly costing the US another Reaper in its Red Sea fight

German frigate Hessen accidentally opened fire on an American drone, nearly costing the US another Reaper in its Red Sea fight

Donald Trump and Steve Bannon

Donald Trump and Steve Bannon on Collision Course

IMAGES

  1. Barcelona In December

    best places to visit in barcelona in december

  2. Things to do in Barcelona in December

    best places to visit in barcelona in december

  3. Why Barcelona In December Is The Best Time To Visit

    best places to visit in barcelona in december

  4. Things to do in Barcelona in December (Christmas Market & More)

    best places to visit in barcelona in december

  5. Discover the Must-See Places in Beautiful Barcelona, Spain

    best places to visit in barcelona in december

  6. Visiting Barcelona In December

    best places to visit in barcelona in december

VIDEO

  1. Top 10 Places to Visit in Barcelona for Millennials

  2. Barcelona Tour in 1 minute

  3. Top places to visit in Barcelona, Spain #europe #tourism #barcelona #holiday #shorts

  4. Barcelona tourist places to visit

  5. Barcelona Travel Guide

  6. Top 10 Must-Visit Spots in Barcelona #barcelona#city#europe#spain#places of interest

COMMENTS

  1. Visiting Barcelona in December ~ Weather & Things To Do in 2024

    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….

  2. Barcelona in December (2024): Ultimate Guide To What To Do

    1. The Weather. While Barcelona is one of the warmer cities in Europe, December is still considered winter. The temperatures can drop to around 9°C (48°F) at night, and only reach around 15°C (59°F) during the day. It can also be quite rainy, with an average of 3 days of rain during the month.

  3. Barcelona in December

    El Born and Santa Maria del Mar are hubs for local arts and crafts in Barcelona in December, perfect for finding unique Christmas gifts. The nativity scene, a key part of Barcelona's Christmas tradition in December, is displayed in various locations, including the Barcelona Cathedral and Plaça Sant Jaume.

  4. Best things to do in December in Barcelona

    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. WALKING TOUR OF GOTHIC QUARTER BARCELONA. At night the temperature lowers to 9ºC / 48F in December and January (46.5F in February).

  5. 7 reasons to visit Barcelona in December (2023 guide)

    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.

  6. Things to do in Barcelona in December

    7. Christmas Lights. And finally, one of the best reasons to visit Barcelona in December is the winter lights! Taking a walk near the Casa Mila is amazing at night, with everywhere lit up. So, in conclusion, if you are looking for a European city to visit in the winter months, you should definitely consider Barcelona.

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

  8. Barcelona In December: 10 Things To Do For A Chill Vacay!

    Here are some of the best things to do in Barcelona in December. 1. Ice Rink. Image Source. Recently Barcelona has started this relatively new tradition of setting up ice rinks around the city and tourists and locals alike can now go for some ice skating. This goes on from late November till New Year and the cost for ice skating very depending ...

  9. 13 Things to Do in Barcelona in December

    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 ...

  10. 10 Best Things to Do in Barcelona in December 2023

    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.

  11. 12+ BEST Things to do in Barcelona in Winter

    Best Things to do in Barcelona in Winter. Visit the Christmas Markets. Go ice skating. Wonder at the Sagrada Familia. Walk around the Gothic Quarter. Dig into some local treats. Make the most of calçot season. Soak in the thermal baths. Party at Els Llums de Sant Pau.

  12. Best things to do in Barcelona this December

    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.

  13. Why Barcelona In December Is The Best Time To Visit

    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 ...

  14. Barcelona in December

    7. Explore Underwater World Barcelona Aquarium. 8. Attending a Flamenco Show. 9. Celebrating Christmas Evening. 10. Celebrating New Year's Eve! Barcelona is a great city to visit in December because of the weather, the Christmas markets, art installations and food markets that come alive during this time of the month.

  15. Barcelona In Winter: 21 Festive Things To Do There

    Don't miss our guide | The best places to visit in Europe in winter. Christmas Day in Barcelona . 25th of December is Christmas Day in Barcelona and most shops and museums are closed to the public. Surprisingly, some of the top tourist attractions such as Park Güell and Casa Batlló are open on the 25th. La Sagrada Familia is also open in ...

  16. 17 of the best things to do in Barcelona in 2024

    3. Wander through the Gothic Quarter. Barcelona's Gothic Quarter ( Barri Gòtic) is the oldest and most atmospheric part of the city. Characterized by small alleyways, hidden plazas and historic buildings, it lies to the east of La Rambla, the famous pedestrian street that runs through the center of the old town.

  17. Barcelona in December 2024

    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. Best Time to Visit Barcelona.

  18. Barcelona Bucket List: 25 Best Things to do in Barcelona

    The Sagrada Familia, without a doubt, is a place you must visit while in Barcelona. Most love it, some think it is incredibly ugly. The Sagrada Familia is the most unique church we have ever seen. From the outside, the front of the church looks like a sandcastle that is slowly crumbling into the ocean.

  19. 3 Days in Barcelona: The Perfect Itinerary for Your First Visit

    These tickets cost €45 per person. Hours: 9:00 am to 8:30 pm, last entry 7:15 pm. Cost: Standard tickets start at €33. Tickets purchased online in advance are cheaper than buying them at the box office. "Be the First" tickets start at €45 and give you early entry (and the best chance to take photos crowd free).

  20. The 50 best attractions and places to visit in Barcelona

    2. La Rambla. This is undoubtedly the most famous street in Barcelona. Stretching from Port Vell to Plaça de Catalunya in the centre, La Rambla offers a bevvy of shops, flower stands, artworks ...

  21. 17 Best Things to Do in Barcelona, Spain

    Churches/Religious Sites, Sightseeing. TYPE. 1 to 2 hours. TIME TO SPEND. U.S. News Insider Tip: Wander 20 minutes north to reach Hospital de Sant Pau. This elaborate, UNESCO-listed former ...

  22. Where to Go in December in Spain

    There are also a number of events that take place across Spain throughout the month of December. From the El Gordo Lottery Draw to New Year's Eve celebrations, you're sure to find a way to experience the local culture of Spain during your trip. El Gordo Lottery. Spain has the biggest lottery in the world (by total prize fund). The vast majority ...

  23. 15 Best Places to Visit in December 2024

    Hawaii - The Big Island. #9 in Best Places to Visit in December 2024. This Hawaiian paradise is the perfect place to escape winter's onset. Weary travelers can thaw on colorful beaches like Punalu ...

  24. The 4 Best Places to Live in Europe for Sunshine Lovers

    Valencia is a cosmopolitan city full of parks and green spaces, and it's won countless accolades, from "most pleasant place to live as a foreigner" (first out of 50 cities in InterNations ...

  25. Europe's travel strikes: Flight and train disruption you can ...

    Rail travel across Spain will be severely disrupted this month as staff walkout in the first half of March. There will be three days of 24-hour strikes on 1, 4 and 12 March .