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Last Updated On August 17, 2021 by Dave Briggs Leave a Comment

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 from across the road in the outdoor seated area of McDonald's!

For some awesome photos of the inside of the building, check out this blog post here – Gaudi's Barcelona.

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:



Booking.com

 

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.

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!

Related Barcelona and Spain posts

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

    • Day trip to Montserrat.
    • Guide to cycling in Catalonia
    • Outdoor activities along the Ebre River

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

 

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Dave Briggs, writer at Dave's Travel Pages

On this travel site, you'll find detailed guides and tips on traveling to Greece, as well as bikepacking blogs about cycling around the world. Dave's Travel Pages is an essential resource for planning trips to popular destinations like the Greek islands as well as preparing for adventures in off the beaten path destinations.

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