From the historic churches and Christmas lights to fabulous markets and extremely odd Barcelona traditions – spending Christmas in Barcelona offers a truly enchanting experience.
Barcelona welcomes you to come and enjoy an incredible Christmas that will leave you speechless.
The entire city is turned into one big festive stage with a wide variety of attractions and events to suit all ages and tastes. Anticipate a magical holiday period with fewer crowds, street music, local food and sweets, traditions, and light.
During the festive season, the weather is generally mild, with daytime temperatures averaging 15 degrees Celsius, often rising during midday, and evening temperatures averaging around 9 degrees.
However, this weather during the holiday season allows for exploring unique Catalan traditions and festivals. Additionally, a lot of stores and attractions will be open on Christmas Day.
Therefore, if you’re wondering what to do over the holidays in Barcelona, check out our list of things to do in this stunning city!
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- Experiencing Barcelona’s Christmas lights and decorations in the Gothic District and on La Rambla.
- Shop at a market such as Fira de la Sagrada Familia, Fira de Santa Llucia, and Fira de Reis
- Plaça de Sant Jaume and Port Velle Market Fair are the best places to find Christmas trees in Barcelona.
- Shop at Barcelona’s well-known Passeig De Gracia, which is known for having a wide selection of stores.
- Listen to Christmas carols and see flamenco performances abound across the city throughout the holiday season.
- Barcelona Christmas weather experiences an average daytime temperature is 15 degrees Celsius and evening temperatures is 9 degrees Celsius.
Top 5 things to do on Christmas in Barcelona
See Barcelona Christmas Lights and Decorations
Barcelona is well-known for Els Illums de Nadal or its Christmas lights.
Lights and decorations may be seen throughout the towns and streets during this time of year.
Nevertheless, one of the nicest things to do in Barcelona in December is to stroll around the streets lit up by holiday lights.
Barcelona’s Christmas lights go on at the end of November and remain on through the first week of January.
Sarah, an enthusiastic traveler, advises – “The Christmas lights in the Gothic Quarter and on La Rambla in Barcelona were especially beautiful to me.”
Find The 8 Coolest Hostels in Barcelona, Spain
Shop at a Barcelona Christmas Market
You may fully immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere when you visit Barcelona, where Christmas fairs and markets are a beloved tradition.
Markets are an excellent location to start for travelers who like to do some Barcelona Christmas shopping!
So you are unsure about which you should visit first? We are here to tell you which markets are the greatest and which ones you should check out.
- A heart-warming Christmas experience awaits you at the Fira de la Sagrada Familia (24th Nov 2023 – 23rd Dec 2023).
- The oldest Christmas market, Fira de Santa Llucia, is located in front of Barcelona Cathedral and offers a charming world of traditions (24th Nov 2023 – 23rd Dec 2023).
- Discover amazing costume jewelry, decorations, ceramics, magical toys, delicious sweet treats, and enticing churro fritters at the Fira de Reis on Gran Via (15th Dec 2023 – 6th Jan 2023).
Izabella, a local girl, advises – “There is a wide selection of seasonal items at Fira de la Sagrada Familia. Toys for kids, Christmas trees, and ornaments from Barcelona, Spain are the most popular goods for sale. Also there you will find the most famous and peculiar Barcelona Christmas traditions: Caganer and Caga Tio.”
Look for the Best Barcelona Christmas Tree
There are Christmas trees everywhere in City Center, but it’s worth looking for a few in particular.
Plaça de Sant Jaume features a festive Christmas tree and the annual Christmas pessebre nativity scene, attracting visitors to the gothic area.
Also, you should check out the Port Velle Market Fair, which is renowned for having Barcelona’s largest Christmas tree!
Barcelona Christmas Shopping
Christmas in Barcelona offers a festive atmosphere and a great shopping experience, with numerous department stores and specialty businesses selling a variety of products.
Moreover, Passeig De Gracia, a popular street in Barcelona, is renowned for its extensive shopping options.
Therefore for those seeking special gifts, the city offers an unforgettable Christmas shopping experience with its authentic and amazing shops.
Enhance Barcelona’s Christmas Holidays by attending musical concerts
Barcelona has an astounding number of musical concerts in December. The city comes alive with music over the holidays, from Flamenco shows to Christmas carols.
A year-round attraction, Barcelona’s Magic Fountain is located at Placa de Carles Buigas in Montjuic. However, the light and music performance is especially spectacular during the holidays, when it is set to Christmas songs.
What is the Weather like on Christmas day in Barcelona?
During the festive season, daytime temperatures average 15 degrees Celsius, often rising during midday, and cool off to around 9 degrees Celsius in the evenings.
Thus it is uncommon for Barcelona to experience snowfall during Christmas time.
Conversely, Barcelona’s beaches and coastal towns, like Cadaques, may be chilly during the late winter months, so be prepared with a sweater for beach activities or sunset cruises.
FAQ
Is December an expensive month in Barcelona?
December in Barcelona is typically not as expensive as the peak tourist months.
Where should I eat on Christmas Eve in Barcelona?
Here you will find some of the perfect holiday meal that suits your plans:
Bodega La Palma
Bodega La Palma
Oria
MinE
El Mall
Tragaluz
El Asador de Aranda
Here you will find other restaurants you need to go to.
How do people dress in Barcelona in December?
In Barcelona, December weather calls for layering, preferably a jacket or coat, sweaters, and long sleeves to stay warm in the cool temperatures.
Which Spanish city is the best to spend Christmas in?
Many people consider Málaga, Barcelona, and Madrid as top choices due to their festive decorations, cultural events, and unique local traditions.
How many days do you need in Barcelona?
Barcelona is recommended to be visited for 3 to 5 days to fully explore its attractions.
Which city is better to visit over the Christmas season – Barcelona or Madrid?
Barcelona and Madrid offer unique Christmas experiences, with Barcelona renowned for its Catalan traditions and vibrant markets, while Madrid boasts grand holiday displays and traditional markets.
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