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Coming to Barcelona in December? As the fall season transitions to winter, the crowds are much lighter. It’s also a festive time to enjoy the Christmas events and activities. As a resident here since 2008, I love feeling the Christmas spirit while enjoying sunny days in this Mediterranean city. (I’m from Southern California 😉 ) Read on to find out what to do and what to expect so you can prepare for your Barcelona vacation!
Why you should visit Barcelona in December
- Barcelona is known for unique Christmas colorful events, and the holiday season brings even more opportunities for celebration. The city is decorated with lights, Christmas markets and events happening throughout the month of December.
- Compared to many other parts of Europe, Barcelona has relatively mild temperatures in December, with an average high of around 14°C (57°F) and low of 6°C (43°F).
- December is generally considered the low season for tourism in Barcelona, which means fewer crowds and lower prices for accommodation and activities.
- Barcelona has a wealth of attractions, such as the iconic Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, the Picasso Museum, and many others. Visiting these places in December can be a more peaceful experience as there are fewer tourists.
Check out the whole Barcelona calendar here!
Reasons why December is a challenging time to visit
- With the winter solstice falling in December, the days are shorter and darker, which may not be ideal for some visitors who prefer more daylight hours to explore the city.
- During the holiday season, many businesses and attractions may have reduced hours or even close for the holidays. The bank holidays are December 6 (Día de la Constitución), December 8 (Feast of the Immaculate Conception), and December 25 (Christmas Day) and December 26 (Dia de San Esteban). That’s four holidays!
- Barcelona’s beaches are extremely crowded during the summer months. In December, the weather isn’t usually warm enough for swimming or sunbathing, so beach activities will be limited. Surprisingly, you always see people in the water! Where are they from?!
Typical weather in Barcelona in December
The weather in Barcelona in December is generally mild but cool, with temperatures ranging from around 6°C (43°F) to 14°C (57°F). The days are typically shorter, with an average of around 9 hours of daylight. December is one of the cooler and wetter months in Barcelona, with an average of around 9 rainy days during the month.
While December is not the warmest time to visit Barcelona, it’s still a fantastic pleasant time to explore the city’s indoor attractions, such as museums and galleries, or to enjoy the festive atmosphere and Christmas markets. Most days are sunny, and sometimes, that’s all we need. Amirite?
Tips for dressing appropriately in Barcelona in December
- Layering is key. Temperatures in Barcelona in December can fluctuate throughout the day, so it’s important to wear layers that can be easily added or removed as needed. Start with a base layer, such as a thermal shirt or long-sleeved t-shirt, and add a sweater or fleece, a jacket, and a waterproof outer layer if it’s raining.
- Wear comfortable and sturdy shoes that can handle a lot of walking. I do not recommend sandals during this month. Closed-toe shoes are a must!
- A scarf and hat can help keep you warm and protect your ears and neck from the wind.
- December is one of the rainiest months in Barcelona, but you never know. 2024 in Barcelona has been a dry year so far, so check the weather forecast!
- Even though the temperatures are cooler in December, the sun can still be bright and intense. Bring a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s glare. Protect your eyes! My dad obsessively wore sunglasses, and his eyes are perfect at age 80.
What to pack in Barcelona in December
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Light jacket or sweater
- Scarf and hat
- Umbrella or raincoat
- T-shirts or short sleeve shirts
- Long sleeve shirts
- Pants or jeans
- Skirts or dresses (for warmer days)
- Cardigans or light jackets
- Comfortable socks
- Underwear and bras
- Camera or smartphone for photos
- Power bank or charger for your devices
- Adaptor plug (if needed for your electronics)
- Travel-sized toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo, etc.)
- Medications or prescriptions
- Travel documents (passport, visa, boarding passes, etc.)
Remember to pack light, as it’s easier to navigate Barcelona’s narrow streets and public transportation with a smaller, lighter suitcase or backpack. Read my guide on what to wear in the fall and winter!
What to do in Barcelona in December 2024
December 6, 2024. Spanish Constitution Day (Día de la Constitución). Most businesses and restaurants are closed. Viva España!
December 8, 2024. It’s a holiday, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Most shops and restaurants are closed.
In December, there are several outdoor ice skating rinks set up around the city, including the Barcelona Ice Rink. Keep your eyes peeled as there are no notifications yet! TBD!
See the Christmas lights. Barcelona is known for its impressive Christmas light displays, particularly on Passeig de Gracia and Rambla de Catalunya. The lights create a magical atmosphere in the city and are a must-see during your visit.
Fira de Santa Llucia (Santa Lucia Christmas Fair). TBD. last days of November – end of December-ish 2024. The most popular and largest Christmas fair in Barcelona, you’ll find rows and rows of stalls in front of the Barcelona Cathedral. Expect to see Christmas trees, Christmas decorations, caganers, wooden toys, and a huge tió de nadal that the children can beat with a stick. ( <- What?? Yup, find out about that here.)
Fira de Nadal al Moll de la Fusta. November 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025. This is a fun fair where you can walk along the port and admire the Mediterranean Sea. They have tons of food stalls, kids’ activities, cotton candy, rides, and more! It’s fun during the day and night! Check it out here!
Christmas activities in Barcelona: End of November-ish, January 6, 2024. Holiday activities are ongoing throughout Barcelona. Most activities are in Plaça Catalunya and Plaça Sant Jaume. Check out Christmas activities in Barcelona – as I update it every year!
Poble Espanyol Natalis: December: from 2 to 10, 16 and 17, 21 to 29 (except 25) + January 2 to 7. What a fun place for the family! With over 20 magical decorations and fairy-tale lighting. Visitors can enjoy Catalan holiday traditions like the nativity scene and Tió, alongside family activities, magic shows, circus acts, and music in December and January. Santa Claus, his elves, and the Three Wise Men will also be at Wishland to collect children’s letters. Buy tickets here.
Fira de la Sagrada Familia (Sagrada Familia Christmas Fair): Last weekend of November – December 24th. This is a fun Christmas market to go right in front of the Sagrada Familia. You’ll see Christmas trees, artisan gifts, Christmas decorations, food vendors, Nativity scenes, and more. A great place to visit right after seeing the grand church!
Fira de Reis de la Gran Via (Three Kings Christmas Fair). End of November-ish to January 5, 2024. Description is above. This Christmas fair IS open on December 26 when everything is closed. Hurrah!
Festival de la Infancia (Children’s Fair). December 27-31, 2024. This is an indoor event for kids to learn, discover, and play! It’s held at the Fira Gran Via, where kids can learn about the Barcelona tram, pretend they work at the Barcelona port, or be a footballer. It’s meant to inspire children about future careers. I went in 2019, and queues were quite long for some stands like the one for FC Barcelona, so I suggest going early to knock those out of the way. Then enjoy the rest of the stands! Check it out here.
December 25, 2024. Christmas Day. Most shops and restaurants are closed.
December 26, 2024. Boxing Day / St Stephen’s Day. Most shops and restaurants are closed.
Royal camp at the oasis in Nou Barris neighborhood: TBD. The Three Wise Men will arrive early and set up a Royal Camp amidst the palm trees in the courtyard of the Nou Barris District headquarters. This oasis will be a place for them to recharge before helping the Kings distribute gifts after the parade. Children are welcome to visit and meet the royal pages, astrologers, the guiding star, postmen, gift-bearers, candy makers, and more!
Sant Esteve Market: Held on December 26th, this market is a great place to sample local food and drink, including traditional Catalan dishes like canelons and escudella i carn d’olla. Business are closed.
New Year’s Eve: December 31, 2024. Barcelona’s main New Year’s Eve event takes place in Placa Espanya with many people celebrating along the beach to watch the fireworks and celebrate with friends and family.
What to eat in Barcelona in December
Escudella i carn d’olla: This is a hearty Catalan stew that is traditionally served during the Christmas season. It is made with various meats, vegetables, and beans, and is typically served with a side of noodles.
Xocolata amb xurros: This is a popular Spanish breakfast or dessert that consists of hot chocolate and churros. It is a perfect warm and sweet treat to enjoy on a chilly day.
Bunyols: These are small, fried doughnuts that are a popular dessert during the Christmas season in Barcelona. They are typically dusted with sugar or served with a sweet dipping sauce.
Canelons: This is a traditional Catalan dish that is often served on Boxing Day (December 26th). It consists of cannelloni stuffed with leftover meat from Christmas dinner, such as turkey or ham, and baked with a creamy béchamel sauce. People usually just eat them at home, and they’re cooked by a loving grandma or mom.
Extra travel tips for going to Barcelona in December
- December is a popular time to visit Barcelona, so it’s important to plan your trip well in advance. Book your accommodation, tours, and activities ahead of time to ensure availability and to avoid disappointment.
- While December is generally mild in Barcelona, it can also be rainy and windy. Make sure to check the weather forecast before you go and pack accordingly.
- Barcelona is known for its Christmas markets, which are a great way to soak up the festive atmosphere and pick up unique gifts and souvenirs.
- To avoid the crowds, consider visiting popular attractions early in the morning or later in the evening when they are less busy.
- Barcelona has an extensive public transport system, including buses, metro, and trains, which is affordable and efficient. Avoid driving or renting a car, as traffic can be heavy and parking can be expensive.
- Barcelona is home to a range of cultural events in December, including Christmas concerts, exhibitions, and festivals. Check local event listings and take advantage of the opportunities to experience Barcelona’s vibrant culture.