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There are many things that make Christmas in Barcelona spectacular. From the historic churches to fabulous Barcelona Christmas Markets to extremely odd Barcelona Christmas traditions, we jumped right in and celebrated the holiday Catalan style!
Christmas in Barcelona, Spain
When we decided to spend Christmas in Barcelona we had so many questions. Are there things to do in Barcelona in December? Do they have Christmas trees in Spain? How is the weather in Barcelona in December? The answers are: Yes, yes and pretty spectacular!
What we discovered is that there is so much to do in Barcelona at Christmastime. To help other holiday travelers planning to visit Barcelona over Christmas, we put together this useful guide of all things festive, Barca-style. Bon Nadal, Merry Christmas in Catalan!
8 Christmassy Barcelona Things To Do in December
Although many people wonder if it’s worth traveling to Europe in winter, there are many things to do in Barcelona in December. Especially if you enjoy Christmas festivities! Visiting Barcelona over Christmas is an excellent time to see the top sights and celebrate the holidays.
Save, Pin or Bookmark our Barcelona Christmas Guide to plan your vacation to Spain!
#1 See Barcelona Christmas Lights and Decorations
We were dazzled by the Barcelona Christmas decorations that hung over wide boulevards and down narrow lanes. They immediately got us in the holiday spirit!
Besides, you don’t have to look very hard for them. Barcelona Christmas lights can be found everywhere in the city. That said, we particularly enjoyed the festive vibes on La Rambla and in the Gothic Quarter.
Strolling the streets under the glow of holiday lights is one of the best things to do in Barcelona in December. The Christmas lights in Barcelona are switched on at the end of November and stay lit through the first week of January.
Holiday Sightseeing Tip: Before you set out in the evening, spend the day seeing the top Barcelona sights. We detail an excellent route in our free Self-Guided Barcelona Walking Tour.
#2 Seek out Barcelona Nativity Scenes
In addition to twinkling lights and glowing ornaments, visitors will find symbols of the Christmas holiday alongside decorative displays throughout Barcelona.
One of the most prominent religious Barcelona holiday symbols is the Nativity scene. Called Pessebre in Barcelona, Nativity scenes are one of the traditional Christmas decorations in Spain and they are found across the city.
All of the churches in Barcelona boast a Nativity scene. However, they are also found in vibrant squares and at the cheerful holiday markets.
We think the Nativity scene in Placa Sant Jaume Square by the Barcelona Town Hall is one of the best. Additionally, the unique floating Nativity scene at the Port Velle Fair is not to be missed!
Xmas Trip Planning Tip: Those who visit Barcelona at Christmas have the unique opportunity to sightsee while the city is all dressed up in the best Barcelona, Spain Christmas decorations. Our 3-Day Itinerary outlines top sights that every visitor should see!
#3 Look for the Best Barcelona Christmas Tree
Christmas trees are found all around Barcelona City Center – but there are a few in particular that are well worth seeking out.
One of the best Barcelona Christmas trees stands near Town Hall in Sant Jaume Square. However, our favorite was the large Christmas Tree in Barcelona near Placa Catalunya on Portal del Angel Street.
The Port Velle Market Fair is known for hosting the biggest Christmas Tree in Barcelona – so we recommend checking it out as well!
#4 Visit Barcelona Churches at Christmas
It wouldn’t be a Barcelona, Spain Christmas without visiting the two most famous churches: La Catedral and La Sagrada Familia. These incredible structures have two distinct styles of architecture: European Gothic (La Catedral) and Modernism (La Sagrada Familia, by Antoni Gaudi).
La Catedral
La Catedral, or Barcelona Cathedral, is wedged into the crowded Barri Gotic district and features soaring spires and menacing gargoyles on the heavily decorated facade.
The spacious, wide interior is lit by grand chandeliers, with two main aisles on the sides along the chapels, rather than one down the middle. Stairs lead beneath the altar to a crypt, which is the final resting place for Santa Eulalia, one of Barcelona’s patron saints.
La Sagrada Familia
La Sagrada Familia, the still unfinished work of Gaudi started in 1883, looks more like a scene from Candyland than most churches found in Europe. We marveled at the mishmash of classic religious symbols mixed with a Modernism flair.
While it is a truly unique building, the fact that it remains unfinished is perplexing and slightly incomprehensible. That is, perhaps, part of the draw. Get a better understanding of Gaudi’s gawdy creation on one of the La Sagrada Familia Tours.
Barcelona Christmas Mass
Both these popular Barcelona churches offer Christmas Day Mass. Christmas Eve in Barcelona often culminates with Midnight Mass at the Cathedral.
Santa Maria del Mar, another one of the beautiful churches in Barcelona (in La Ribera Quarter), also offers a Christmas Midnight Mass.
#5 Shop at a Barcelona Christmas Market
We were ecstatic to find Barcelona Christmas Markets set up throughout the city. As we wandered the streets, we would stumble into quaint squares or city parks filled with huts selling holiday goods.
For travelers who want to do a little Christmas shopping in Barcelona, these markets are a great place to start!
Best Christmas Markets Barcelona
We thought the best Christmas Markets in Barcelona were at the same two churches featured above: La Catedral and La Sagrada Familia.
Both feature multiple booths and a festive atmosphere. That said, the Port Vell Christmas Fair is said to be absolutely spectacular. It’s certainly on our list for the next trip to Barcelona for the holidays!
Fira de Santa Llucia Christmas Market
The Barcelona Christmas Market at La Catedral is called the Fira de Santa Llucia, the city’s oldest Christmas fair. The location of the Santa Llucia Market is in the Avinguda de la Catedral Square.
The vendors at Fira de Santa Llucia mostly sell pieces for create-your-own Nativity sets. Offerings range from small, simple sets to more elaborate scenes with running water and flickering lights. Hundreds – maybe thousands – of different figurines are also for sale.
Of course, almost every vendor sells a version of the most famous and peculiar Barcelona Christmas traditions: Caganer and Caga Tio (which we explain further in the next section).
Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia Church
The La Sagrada Familia Christmas Market is officially called “Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia”. At this festive bazaar, visitors will find an array of holiday items.
The most popular goods for sale are Christmas trees, children’s toys and Barcelona, Spain Christmas ornaments. We didn’t see a specific Sagrada Familia Christmas Ornament. Perhaps we just missed them, but they can be ordered online!
Port Vell Christmas Market Barcelona
The Fira de Nadal del Port Vell is one of the fun and modern Barcelona, Spain Christmas Markets.
Located right on the water, the brightly lit space features a giant Christmas Ball and amusement park rides – like a Ferris Wheel. There are also plenty of food stalls cooking up festive dishes and pop-up bars mixing delicious drinks.
Find 2024 Barcelona Christmas Market Dates & Info on the Official Tourism Calendar.
Barcelona Christmas Shopping
The Christmas Markets in Barcelona are not just limited to the elaborate event spaces. Smaller holiday markets pop up in squares around the city – and each district has one.
The neighborhood Barcelona Christmas Markets are an ideal place to pick up handmade goods, scarfs and the traditional staples of cured meat, cheese and bread.
We also saw many different ornaments – and believe a Barcelona Christmas Ornament makes a perfect holiday gift or trip keepsake! Additionally, the markets are a meeting place for friends and families to enjoy sweet treats (like Churros and Chocolate) and festive beverages.
#6 Learn Barcelona Christmas Traditions
One of the amazing things about traveling is learning about other people’s unique culture. What we discovered is that Barcelona traditions at Christmas are strongly connected with the history of the city and it’s people…and unlike anywhere else.
Two notable Christmas traditions in Barcelona that baffled us the most were the Caganer and El Caga Tio. Both these Barcelona holiday figures are rooted in fertility, heat and light, but somewhere along the way have taken on an odd twist.
Barcelona Caganer
The first time we saw the Caganer, we didn’t believe the figurines were seriously supposed to be included in Holy Nativity sets.
Literally meaning, ‘The Crapper,’ the squatting, dropped-drawers, defecating fellow is most often depicted as a pipe-smoking Barcelonian and, supposedly, symbolizes fertility.
Numerous versions of the Nativity crapper are available – including ones that resemble famous people, like US Presidents, rock stars and even the Pope.
At the holiday markets in Barcelona, entire booths are dedicated to the Caganer. We still don’t exactly get the bizarre tradition, but that didn’t keep us from buying one as a keepsake!
Caga Tio Barcelona
The Caga Tio de Nadal – or Uncle Christmas – is another bizarre Barcelona Christmas tradition that had us shaking our heads.
Originating as gifts of light and heat from burning wood, today Caga Tio Christmas logs are adorned with smiley faces and given legs and a Santa hat. But wait, that’s not actually the strange part.
What makes the Caga Tio a mind-bending Barcelona holiday tradition is what happens to them in the days leading up to December 25. The children of the household take care of the smiling log, by ‘feeding’ it.
Then for Christmas, they place it in a fireplace or beat it with a stick so that it will…crap out presents. Kids even sing a little jingle to encourage the log to bear them gifts.
Although we are far from comprehending this tradition (ok, we didn’t try very hard), a small Caga Tio made it’s way into our Barcelona apartment to sit next to our Christmas tree. We, however, refrained from burning or beating it, so alas, no presents!
Pro Tip: Both the Cagner and the Caga Tio make very odd Barcelona Christmas gifts and can be purchased at any of the markets. Looking for more fun travel-focused gifts? Check out our complete list of Unique Travel Gifts.
#7 Enhance Barcelona Christmas Holidays with Festive Activities
Fortunately, there are many fun ways to enjoy the holiday spirit in Barcelona that don’t include discussing poo.
During the month of December in Barcelona, the city hosts a dazzling number of musical concerts. From Christmas carols to Flamenco performances, Barcelona is alive and buzzing with music throughout the holiday season.
Ice skating is a fun Barcelona wintertime activity for families, friends and couples. Rinks pop up across the city during the holidays, inviting visitors to glide, twirl and whirl in the festive atmosphere. Typically, there have been ice skating rinks in Placa de Catalunya and L’illa Mall.
The Magic Fountain in Barcelona (located in Placa de Carles Buigas in Montjuic) is a year-round attraction. However, it’s even better during the holidays, when the light and music show is set to Christmas carols.
Visitors can also enjoy the Christmas season in Barcelona on an evening Christmas Lights Bus Tour. The 1.5-hour ride on the double-decker, open-air bus features a magical ambiance along with top sights. Private Christmas Light Tours are also available by Tuk Tuk, which can be romantic for couples.
#8 Enjoy Barcelona Sweet Treats and Catalan Specialties
One of the best things about a Barcelona Christmas break is the holiday fare! Visitors can snack on roasted chestnuts, taste assorted sweets and nibble on churros dipped in hot chocolate sauce.
We highly recommend sampling escudella, the beloved Catalan Christmas stew (which is typically consumed on Xmas Day) and cannelloni stuffed with meat (which is most popular on December 26th).
A famous sweet to eat is Turron – a delicious nougat made of almond, honey and eggs. It’s one of our favorite wintertime treats. The prime place to buy it is at Torrons i Dolcos La Campana, which has been creating the delightful artisanal confections since 1890.
Top Tip: Year-round, part of experiencing Barcelona is indulging in the local fare! Visiting La Boqueria Market is a must – and tapas-hopping is highly recommended. Read our suggestions for the best Barcelona Tapas – or join one of the popular food tours that are sure to enhance your holiday visit.
What To Expect in Barcelona on Christmas Day
Christmas Day in Barcelona is usually celebrated with a big lunch at home with family. Many attractions are closed, as are most restaurants, cafes and bars.
What To Do in Barcelona on Christmas Day
Worried that everything would be closed on Christmas Day in Barcelona, we planned outdoor activities that are always open. We also stocked up on plenty of food (and wine!) for the day.
Rather than staying indoors, we took advantage of the nice Barcelona weather and spent the day hiking Montjuic. We enjoyed the exercise and loved the fresh air, quiet trails and scenic viewpoints.
In the early evening, we wandered the L’Eixample neighborhood – and found quite a few bars and cafes open. After dark, we strolled the quiet Barcelona streets under the glow of Christmas lights.
Barcelona Christmas Swim
Another one of the fun Christmas in Barcelona traditions is watching (or participating) in the Copa Nadal.
Established in 1907, the Christmas Day swim takes place in the harbor off Rambla de Mar (near the Columbus Monument). Nearly 500 swimmers – many decked out in Santa costumes – brave the chilly waters for the event.
Christmas Lunch in Barcelona
While most restaurants are closed for lunch on Christmas Day in Barcelona, visitors can make reservations at Flaherty’s Pub for a traditional Irish holiday meal. The feast comes with all the fixings – including roasted turkey, potatoes and Christmas pudding.
Christmas Dinner Barcelona
Unsure there would be any restaurants open, we pre-ordered special Christmas meals. Prepared by Mas Gourmets at the famous La Boqueria Market, we celebrated with friends in our Airbnb.
However, visitors who want to enjoy a Christmas dinner out will find some restaurants that are open. It is recommended to do some research and certainly book ahead to ensure a seating!
Post-Christmas Barcelona Festivities
The holiday celebrations don’t end on December 25, but continue until January 6. Those staying longer should be aware of these dates.
Dia de Sant Esteve – December 26
December 26 is a bank holiday in Catalonia – the Day of Saint Steve (Dia de Sant Esteve) – which is spent with family. Many places will be closed, so keep this in mind if you are staying in Barcelona between Christmas and New Year.
Home dels Nassos – December 31 (Daytime)
Another crazy Catalan tradition, Home dels Nassos, occurs during the day on December 31. According to Catalan legend, there is a man who has 365 noses – and he loses one each day of the year. At the end of the year, he can finally be seen and children are sent in search of him.
Barcelona New Year’s Eve (Night)
The Barcelona New Year celebration occurs in Placa d’Espanya and along Avinguda de la Reina Maria Cristina that leads south to the Magic Fountain. The event is highlighted by live performances, musical acts and a firework display.
At midnight, it is custom to eat 12 grapes and drink cava wine to celebrate. Barcelona clubs will then fling open the doors until dawn to ring in the New Year.
Three Kings Parade – 5 and 6 January
Throughout Europe, holiday celebrations don’t end on Christmas day, but rather just begin. The Epiphany – also called the 12th Day of Christmas – falls on the 6th January. This is when many children receive their presents – not on Christmas Day.
One of the biggest events during the Christmas period is the appearance of the Three Kings (called the Reyes Magos) who traditionally bring the gifts. They arrive at the Port of Barcelona on the 5th of January by boat, where children and families excitedly await their arrival.
On the eve of the Epiphany, there is a Three Kings Parade, which is primarily for the children. It is also called the 12th Night Procession – or La Cabalgata de Reyes Magos in Spanish or La Cavalcada de Reis Mags d’Orient in Catalan.
Our Tips For Your Trip to Barcelona, Spain
Before you set off, we have some helpful travel advice for Spain. We are covering important details – from packing to how to get there and where to stay.
Planning a Christmas Barcelona Trip
We have highlighted the best things to do in Barcelona at Christmas, but there is so much more to planning your trip.
Those arriving from overseas will want to start with these Top Tips For Planning a Europe Trip, which features our honest advice about traveling abroad.
As you make your plans for visiting Barcelona during Christmas, keeping track of the details is essential. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner – so that nothing falls through the cracks.
Christmas in Barcelona Weather
One of the biggest concerns for travelers is Barcelona weather during Christmastime. Fortunately, there isn’t much to worry about!
Winters in Barcelona are generally mild with blue skies overhead. Barcelona temperatures in December usually peak in the high 50s, with lows in the 40s overnight. It is best to check Barcelona Weather for December online before you go on your trip.
How To Get to Barcelona
During the Barcelona Xmas season, there are flights from all major European destinations, as well as select US cities. To find the best flights with the lowest fares to BCN, we recommend starting your search on Skyscanner. Feel free to check out our other recommendations for Finding Great Airline Deals.
Where To Stay in Barcelona for Christmas
The best places to stay in Barcelona are in – or close to – the city center. During our Barcelona Christmas Trip, we stayed in an Airbnb Apartment in L’Eixample.
This neighborhood was built as an expansion to the old city in the mid-1800s. The wide, tree-lined streets were lit up with holiday lights and Christmas displays decorated trendy shop windows.
On subsequent Barcelona trips, we stayed at the Hotel Concordia Barcelona in El Poble-sec – which lies between Montjuic and the Old Town. The location of the 4-star hotel is ideal – plus it features modern rooms and an on-site restaurant and bar.
That said, there are many Barcelona hotels to choose from. Start your search now for the best Christmas Barcelona accommodations on Booking.com. Also check out these top-rated properties (based on guest reviews), Catalonia Magdalenes, Hotel The Serras and Hotel Casa Camper.
Top Tip: We share more accommodation advice in our Guide To Booking the Best Hotels.
What To Pack For Your Trip to Barcelona
Our final tips cover what to pack for your Christmas trip to Barcelona. So grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to Spain!
Versatile Shoes
Don’t forget to pack a pair of lightweight and comfortable walking shoes for travel. I (Sarah) have traveled with these shoes by Columbia. Kris prefers wearing trail shoes by Merrell.
Travel Camera
We’re certain you’ll be snapping tons of photos during your Spain trip. Rather than relying on your phone to capture the sights, upgrade to an actual camera for high quality photos. We travel with a Canon Rebel, which takes amazing photos and is an excellent budget camera.
Barcelona Guidebook
It’s easy to get turned around or lost in any new destination! Be sure to have a good guidebook prior to arriving in Spain.
Durable Day Pack
Whether you travel with a backpack or suitcase, you will certainly want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your essential travel items.
European Travel Insurance
Trip insurance can be useful for all kinds of travel mishaps – from lost luggage to cancelled flights to getting sick abroad. If you haven’t already obtained coverage for your Spain vacation, consider the policies with World Nomads.
Spain Itinerary Ideas
Need help planning your vacation to Spain? Check out our One-Week Spain Itinerary, that also includes stops in Madrid and Seville, as well as an option to add Lisbon, Portugal!
Visiting Northern Spain, Too? Great! Get started by reading our Basque Country Itinerary. and our Guide to San Sebastian Pintxos.
Looking for more European holiday adventures? Check out our featured article on our favorite places to spend Christmas in Europe.
Trying to decide whether to spend Christmas in Barcelona or Madrid? We’ve grappled with this choice, too.
We believe Barcelona is better for exploring when things are closed on Christmas Day. However, Madrid at Christmastime is excellent for shopping and museums. Plus, Madrid for NYE can be legendary if you plan properly, so be sure to read our mistakes!
Start planning your trip to Spain! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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