General Information
Barcelona, one of the most popular destinations among tourists around the world, is also known for its mild weather. A significant advantage of Barcelona is the fact that it can be visited almost all year round, including during in the winter months – where, of course, the price for the holiday is more affordable. Here is all you need to know about winter vacation in Barcelona, with reference to the weather, prices, attractions and special events in the city in the winter.
About the Catalan Winter
The winter in Barcelona is between November and March and is characterized by two main things: first, a temperature decline that peaks in January, where the average temperature is 8 degrees Celsius. In addition, the amount of rain in Barcelona during these months is also very similar to that of London, although the most rainy month is May.
The average temperature in Barcelona in each month of the year, the maximum and minimum temperature every month, amounts of precipitation and other important data on the weather of Barcelona are available on the next page – Weather in Barcelona.
Fun Activities for the Cold Months
Some of Barcelona’s main tourist attractions try their best to attract visitors in the winter. The ice skating rink in Plaça de Catalunya has been operating for several years, usually between November and January. The arena offers a surface of 1,200 square meters, which can store up to 350 skaters at a given moment.
The next attraction is suitable especially for the ones who have the desire to warm and pamper their body: bathhouse called Aire de Barcelona, including pools of hot water and the possibility to perform massages. On the other hand, for those wishing to cool down even more stands another attraction – this Icebarcelona ice bar. If you visited such an ice bar before, you probably know what to expect: low temperature (up to 10 degrees below zero), sculptures and furniture made of ice, quality music and drinks (soft and alcoholic). The admission includes a free first drink and a supply of coats and gloves. You can visit the Ice Bar for up to 45 minutes.
A great option for a winter outing is a flamenco show. Apart from the fact that this is a closed club that will help you escape from the cold outside, this is an extraordinary experience that will allow you to enjoy the Andalusian culture. There is a possibility to book tickets for the show, which includes a traditional Spanish dinner or free drink of your choice. Learn more about flamenco performances in Barcelona.
In addition to the attractions, the winter in Barcelona has a number of special events, the most important of which is La Cabalgata de Reyes Magos. The parade takes place in January throughout Spain and includes colorful processions accompanied by authentic music, costumes and sweets. At the end of the procession you can join a party with the local residents.
Shopping in Barcelona
And how can it be without shopping? One cannot visit Barcelona without a shopping spree, which is an experience in itself. The good news is that for those who are in the city during the winter months, the chances of having a sale are definitely high. Between January and March, various stores run discount sales days, with discounts of tens of percent compared to the rest of the year. Please note that the sales usually include the leading international chains, which Barcelona is also known for.
The ones arriving in Barcelona for Christmas will be able to get an authentic experience in the Christmas market, known as the “Fair of the Sacred Julia” (Fira de Santa Llúcia). The fair has been held annually since 1786 in the Placita de la Seu in front of Barcelona’s main cathedral – Catedral de Santa Eulalia. The market includes a few hundred stalls with holiday decorations, gifts, porcelain dolls, lighting fixtures and more. The market is held every year for almost a month, between November and December, and includes competitions, parades and more (for additional information – Christmas markets in Barcelona and Shopping in Barcelona).
Map
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