Barcelona in December: Weather, Events, Tips, & More

Are you planning a trip to Barcelona and wondering if December is a good time of year to visit? You’re in the right place!

I’m a travel blogger that lives in Barcelona, and I can tell you that December is a special time of the year to visit the city.

Barcelona in December comes with festive holiday events, cooler weather, and unique seasonal activities you won’t find any other time of year.

In this post, I’ll cover everything you need to know about visiting Barcelona in December, including the weather, holiday events, and my top tips for things to do. Let’s get started!

Yes, December is a very special time to visit Barcelona, especially if you enjoy holiday festivities and fewer tourist crowds.

Compared to other parts of Europe, December temperatures in Barcelona are pretty mild, so it’s still comfortable for sightseeing, and the city lights up with holiday markets, Christmas fairs, and local traditions.

While the Christmas markets won’t be as elaborate as those in Prague, Vienna, or Berlin, you’ll still find a good amount of holiday festivities in Barcelona.

Plus, flights and accommodations tend to be more affordable than in the peak summer months of tourist season.

Barcelona’s December temperatures are pretty mild by European standards. The average high is around 60°F (15°C), while lows drop to about 49°F (9°C).

It’s chilly enough for cozy sweaters but you can still enjoy outdoor activities during the day, especially with layers.

Daytime temperatures are much warmer especially when the sun is out, but make sure to bring a heavier jacket or coat for cooler evenings.

The month of December in Barcelona sees an average of 1.1 inches (28mm) of rainfall over about 6.4 days.

Compared to October and November, December tends to be much drier. While rain is still possible, it’s typically light and infrequent.

But it’s still a good idea to bring a travel umbrella or a waterproof jacket for any sudden showers.

The average humidity in December is around 70% in Barcelona, which is about average for the city.

You may experience some humidity, but with cooler temperatures it won’t be as hot or sticky as in the peak summer months.

The Mediterranean Sea cools down to 59.9°F (15.5°C) by December.

It’s far too cold for a swim, but the beaches in Barcelona are still a nice spot for a walk along the boardwalk to get some winter sun.

The beach bars and restaurants will be closed down for the season, but there will still be a lot of people at the beach enjoying the views and fresh air.

Here are some of the best things to do in Barcelona in December:

• Visit La Sagrada Família: La Sagrada Familia is Gaudí’s masterpiece, and one of the most famous churches in Barcelona. Take your time exploring its intricate architecture and stunning stained glass windows.

• Take a Cooking Class: Learn to cook traditional Spanish and Catalan dishes with a local chef. Cooking classes in Barcelona are a fun and unique way to experience the culture and flavors of Barcelona.

These are the top Barcelona Christmas markets:

• Santa Llucia Christmas Fair: Located just in front of Barcelona Cathedral, the Fira de Santa Llúcia is one of Barcelona’s most popular holiday markets, featuring gifts, decorations, and nativity scenes.

• Nativity Scene at Plaça Sant Jaume: This famous square in the Gothic Quarter of Barcelona is home to a large and elaborate nativity scene, complete with Christmas lights, a Christmas tree, and festive decorations.

• Sagrada Família Christmas Fair: The area surrounding La Sagrada Família turns into a Christmas market every year, featuring local crafts and gifts, as well as some food and snacks.

• Port Vell Christmas Fair: The Port Vell Christmas Fair is another holiday market that takes place at Port Vell near the sea with light displays, market stalls, a ferris wheel, a small ice rink, and more.

In addition to the markets, here are a few more Barcelona holiday events and traditions:

• Tió de Nadal: Tió de Nadal or Caga Tió (Uncle Crapper) is a classic Catalan holiday tradition (it’s basically a wooden log character that “poops” gifts). You can find this festive character at local fairs and markets.

• Lights of Sant Pau: Sant Pau Recinte Modernista is one of the most famous buildings in Barcelona, and each year it puts on an impressive light show to celebrate the Christmas holidays in December.

• Caganer: The caganer is a traditional Catalan figurine of a pooping man that is often placed in nativity scenes. This is one of the most popular souvenirs from Barcelona and represents good luck in the new year.

There’s aren’t a ton of other special events in December, but a couple worth mentioning are:

• Manga Fair: Taking place in early December from the 5th-8th, the Manga Fair is a popular event for manga and Japanese anime fans that includes workshops and exhibitions.

• Design Market Barcelona by FAD: Held from December 12-14, the Design Market Barcelona by FAD is a market of independent designers featuring home decor, furniture, fashion, jewelry, and more.

When planning how to dress in Barcelona in December, you’ll definitely want to pack layers of warm clothes.

For women, pack long-sleeve tops, sweaters, and a coat, along with jeans, pants, or skirts with tights. I have a long wool coat that I pretty wear all throughout winter.

I’d also throw in a scarf or winter hat just in case it gets really cold, and pack a pair of comfortable closed-toed walking shoes like sneakers or boots.

Men will want to bring a similar setup: long-sleeve shirts, sweaters, jeans and pants, and a coat for layering. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are essential, especially if you’re planning to explore the city on foot.

Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, so be prepared with warm outfits for going out to dinner or any evening events.

Here are some essentials you’ll want to pack for a December visit to Barcelona:

• Umbrella: December rain is light, but I’d recommend packing a small travel umbrella just in case of sudden showers.

• Travel Adapter: Remember to bring a travel adapter for charging devices if you’re coming from the US or a country with different plug types.

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about visiting Barcelona in December:

December in Barcelona is a great time of year to visit. The holiday decorations, markets, and special events really add a magical touch the city.

With cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, December offers a unique mix of holiday charm and local Christmas traditions.

Whether you’re here for the Christmas markets, Gaudí’s architecture, or the New Year’s fireworks, you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Barcelona in December!

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