Barcelona in December - Christmas arrives!

Barcelona is a city that offers plenty of reasons to visit in December. From the beautiful Christmas decorations to the unique shopping opportunities, there are many things to do and see in the city during the holiday season. However, there are also some reasons why you might not want to visit, such as the crowds and higher prices. The water temperature in December is typically quite cold, and the weather is mild with a chance of rain. Despite these factors, Barcelona in December is a festive and magical time, with many cultural and religious events taking place throughout the month. It's a great time to try traditional Catalan cuisine and enjoy the holiday atmosphere in this vibrant city.

WHY YOU SHOULD YOU VISIT BARCELONA IN DECEMBER?

Barcelona is a vibrant city that offers plenty of things to do and see in December. Here are some reasons why you might want to visit Barcelona in December:

1. Christmas Decorations: Barcelona is known for its beautiful Christmas decorations, including the giant Christmas tree in Plaça Catalunya and the stunning lights on Passeig de Gracia. The city is transformed into a winter wonderland, making it a magical time to visit.

2. Markets and Shopping: December is a great time to do some shopping in Barcelona, with several Christmas markets and pop-up shops throughout the city. You can find unique gifts, artisanal products, and traditional Catalan Christmas decorations.

3. Festive Atmosphere: December is a month of celebrations in Barcelona, with various cultural and religious events taking place throughout the city. From the Catalan Christmas traditions of Caga Tió and Els Pastorets to the famous New Year's Eve party in Plaça Catalunya, there's always something to celebrate in Barcelona in December.

4. Mild Weather: While it may be cooler than in the summer months, December in Barcelona offers mild weather with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F), making it a great time to explore the city on foot.

5. Culinary Delights: December is a great time to enjoy traditional Catalan cuisine, with many restaurants offering special menus and dishes for the holiday season. From cannelloni and escudella to turron and cava, there are many delicious foods and drinks to enjoy during your visit.

Overall, December is a great time to visit Barcelona if you're looking for a festive and magical atmosphere, unique shopping opportunities, mild weather, and delicious food and drink.

WHY YOU MIGHT NOT WANT TO VISIT BARCELONA IN DECEMBER?

While December is a wonderful time to visit Barcelona, there are a few reasons why you might not want to:

1. Crowds: December is a popular month for tourism in Barcelona, especially during the Christmas and New Year's holidays. This means that the city can get crowded, and popular tourist attractions may have long lines or require advance booking.

2. Higher Prices: With the increase in tourism, prices for flights, accommodation, and activities may be higher in December than during the low season. It's a good idea to book in advance or look for deals to save money.

3. Limited Hours: Some tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops may reduce their hours or close during the holiday season, which can limit your options for things to do and places to eat.

4. Cooler Weather: While the weather is mild in December, it can still be cooler than the summer months. This means that outdoor activities and beach days may not be as enjoyable, and you'll need to pack warmer clothing.

5. Shorter Days: As winter approaches, the days get shorter, and there are fewer daylight hours for sightseeing and outdoor activities. This can make it more challenging to fit everything into your itinerary.

Overall, while there are a few reasons why you might not want to visit Barcelona in December, they are relatively minor compared to the many reasons why December is a great time to explore this fantastic city.

HOW IS THE WATER TEMPERATURE IN BARCELONA IN DECEMBER?

In December, the water temperature in Barcelona is typically quite cold, with an average temperature of around 13°C (55°F). This temperature is too cold for most people to swim comfortably, but some may still want to take a quick dip in the sea or try some water-based activities. However, it's important to note that the sea temperature can vary depending on the day and the location, so it's always a good idea to check the local weather conditions before planning any water-based activities. Additionally, some beaches may start to reduce their facilities and hours of operation as the weather cools down and the tourist season ends.

HOW IS THE WEATHER IN DECEMBER IN BARCELONA?

In December, Barcelona experiences mild winter weather, with average temperatures ranging from 8°C to 16°C (46°F to 61°F). The days are typically sunny, with clear blue skies, while the nights can be chilly but not freezing. However, there is a chance of rain, with an average of 5-6 rainy days in December. It's a good idea to pack warm clothes, including a coat and sweaters for cooler evenings, as well as an umbrella or raincoat for the possibility of rain. Overall, December is a great time to visit Barcelona if you're looking for mild weather, festive holiday atmosphere, and fewer crowds than during the summer months. However, the cooler temperatures and chance of rain may not be ideal for everyone.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN EVENTS IN DECEMBER IN BARCELONA?

December is a festive and joyful time in Barcelona, with many cultural and religious events taking place throughout the month. Here are some of the main events you can enjoy:

1. Christmas Markets: Barcelona is known for its beautiful Christmas markets, including the Fira de Santa Llucia, the largest and oldest Christmas market in the city. You can find unique gifts, artisanal products, and traditional Catalan Christmas decorations.

2. New Year's Eve in Plaça Catalunya: Plaça Catalunya is the main square in Barcelona, and it's the center of the city's New Year's Eve celebrations. Thousands of people gather in the square to watch the fireworks, eat grapes, and celebrate the new year.

3. Three Kings Parade: The Three Kings Parade, or Cavalcada de Reis, takes place on January 5th, but the preparations and events leading up to it begin in December. The parade features colorful floats, music, and sweets thrown to the crowds.

4. Sant Jordi's Day: Sant Jordi's Day, or the Day of the Rose and the Book, is celebrated on April 23rd, but the preparations and events leading up to it begin in December. The holiday celebrates love, literature, and culture and is marked by the exchange of roses and books.

5. Festival of Saint Lucia: The Festival of Saint Lucia is celebrated on December 13th and marks the beginning of the Christmas season in Catalonia. It's a traditional holiday that celebrates the winter solstice and the return of the sun.

These are just a few of the many events and festivals taking place in Barcelona in December. There are many more cultural, music, food, and sports events to discover, so be sure to check the local event calendar to see what's happening during your visit.

HOW ARE PRICES FOR TOURISTS IN DECEMBER IN BARCELONA?

December is considered a high season for tourism in Barcelona, especially during the Christmas and New Year's holidays, which means that prices for tourists can be higher than during the low season. While prices can vary depending on the type of accommodation, activities, and restaurants you choose, here are some general examples of what you can expect:

1. Accommodation: Hotels and vacation rentals may offer higher rates in December, as demand is higher than in the low season. You may be able to find good deals by booking in advance or searching for last-minute offers.

2. Flights: Airfares to Barcelona may also be higher in December than during the low season. However, this can vary depending on your departure location and airline choice.

3. Restaurants and Bars: Many restaurants and bars in Barcelona offer special Christmas menus or parties, which can be more expensive than regular menus. However, there are still many affordable options available, especially in local and neighborhood spots.

4. Attractions and Activities: Many popular attractions and activities in Barcelona may offer higher prices or require advance booking during the high season. It's a good idea to check for deals and discounts in advance or consider visiting less popular sites.

Overall, December can be an expensive time to visit Barcelona, but it's still possible to enjoy the city on a budget by planning ahead, choosing affordable options, and looking for deals and discounts. It's also important to keep in mind that the festive atmosphere and cultural events make it a unique and memorable time to visit the city.

WHAT TO DO IN BARCELONA IN DECEMBER?

Barcelona is a city that offers plenty of things to do and see in December. Here are some ideas for activities and events to enjoy:

1. Visit Christmas Markets: Barcelona is known for its beautiful Christmas markets, including the Fira de Santa Llucia and the Christmas market at the Sagrada Familia. You can find unique gifts, artisanal products, and traditional Catalan Christmas decorations.

2. Watch the Three Kings Parade: The Three Kings Parade, or Cavalcada de Reis, takes place on January 5th, but the preparations and events leading up to it begin in December. The parade features colorful floats, music, and sweets thrown to the crowds.

3. Enjoy Festive Lights: Barcelona's streets are decorated with stunning lights during the Christmas season, including the famous lights on Passeig de Gracia. Take a walk to enjoy the festive atmosphere and take photos.

4. Visit Museums and Galleries: Barcelona has many world-class museums and galleries, including the Picasso Museum, the Joan Miro Foundation, and the National Art Museum of Catalonia. Many offer special exhibitions and events during the holiday season.

5. Attend a Christmas Concert: Barcelona is home to many beautiful churches and concert halls that offer Christmas concerts and performances. Check the local event calendar for information on upcoming concerts.

6. Watch a Football Match: If you're a sports fan, watching a football match at the Camp Nou stadium, home of FC Barcelona, is an unforgettable experience.

7. Try Traditional Food and Drink: December is a great time to enjoy traditional Catalan cuisine, such as cannelloni, escudella, and turron. You can also try cava, a sparkling wine that is popular during the holiday season.

These are just a few ideas for things to do and see in Barcelona in December. With its festive atmosphere, cultural events, and mild weather, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city.

WHAT TO PACK FOR TRAVELLING TO BARCELONA IN DECEMBER?

If you're traveling to Barcelona in December, you'll want to pack clothes that are appropriate for the mild winter weather and the festive holiday atmosphere. Here are some items to consider packing:

1. Warm Clothing: Although the weather is mild in December, temperatures can still drop, especially at night. Bring warm clothing such as a coat, sweaters, and long pants.

2. Waterproof Jacket or Umbrella: December is a month with some rainfall in Barcelona, so be sure to bring a waterproof jacket or umbrella to stay dry.

3. Comfortable Walking Shoes: Barcelona is a city that is best explored on foot, so pack comfortable shoes for walking, as well as a pair of warmer boots for colder evenings.

4. Scarf, Hat, and Gloves: These items will help keep you warm on chilly days and nights.

5. Formal Outfit: If you plan to attend any special events or dine at fancier restaurants, you may want to pack a dressier outfit.

6. Camera: Barcelona is a beautiful city with many stunning sights to see and capture. Don't forget to bring your camera to take some memorable photos.

7. Adapter: Barcelona has a different power outlet type than many other countries, so be sure to pack an adapter to charge your electronic devices.

Overall, Barcelona in December is a festive and magical time, so pack accordingly to enjoy the mild winter weather and holiday atmosphere.

WHAT TO EAT IN DECEMBER IN BARCELONA?

December is a great time to try traditional Catalan cuisine and festive holiday dishes in Barcelona. Here are some foods and drinks to try:

1. Escudella: This hearty stew is a staple of Catalan cuisine, typically made with meat, vegetables, and pasta.

2. Cannelloni: Another popular dish during the holiday season, cannelloni is a type of pasta stuffed with meat, vegetables, or fish and baked in a rich bechamel sauce.

3. Turron: A sweet nougat made with almonds and honey, turron is a traditional Catalan dessert eaten during the holiday season.

4. Cava: A sparkling wine that is popular during the holiday season in Catalonia, cava is typically served with festive meals and celebrations.

5. Polvorones: Small, crumbly cookies made with almonds, polvorones are a traditional Christmas treat in Spain.

6. Marzipan: A sweet paste made with almonds and sugar, marzipan is often shaped into festive figures during the holiday season.

7. Hot Chocolate and Churros: A warm and comforting treat on a chilly day, hot chocolate and churros are a classic combination in Barcelona, and many cafes and bakeries offer them during the holiday season.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious foods and drinks to try in Barcelona in December. With its rich culinary traditions and festive holiday atmosphere, Barcelona offers plenty of opportunities to indulge in local flavors and delights.