Blog · Guide
Barcelona in November and December: what to do
Late autumn is one of the nicest times to be in Barcelona. The summer crowds are gone, the days are often mild and sunny, and from late November the whole city lights up for Christmas. Here is what to do.
The weather
- Mild days: daytime temperatures are often around 13 to 17 °C, with plenty of sunny days
- Cool evenings: bring a jacket for after dark
- Short days: the sun sets around 5:30 pm, so plan your sightseeing for the morning and early afternoon
A sunny winter day on the seafront is one of the best feelings in Barcelona.
The Christmas lights
From late November, streets all over the city are lit up for the season, from the big avenues to the narrow lanes of the old town.
- Passeig de Gràcia and the Eixample: the classic evening stroll under the lights
- The old town: smaller streets with their own decorations, perfect for wandering
- Llums de Sant Pau: a ticketed light show at the Sant Pau Art Nouveau site, one of the most beautiful places in the city after dark
Christmas markets
Fira de Santa Llúcia
Barcelona's oldest Christmas market, held every year since 1786 in front of the Cathedral. Stalls sell nativity figures, moss, handmade gifts and decorations, from late November until 23 December.
Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família
A friendly market in the square next to the Sagrada Família, with crafts, gifts and decorations.
Catalan Christmas traditions
- The caganer: a tiny figure hidden in the corner of the nativity scene. You will see hundreds of them at Santa Llúcia, including famous faces.
- The tió: a smiling log that children feed for weeks, then tap with sticks on Christmas Eve so it "gives" presents
- Turrón and neules: almond nougat and crisp rolled wafers, the sweets of the season
- 26 December, Sant Esteve: a second holiday after Christmas Day, traditionally a big family lunch
New Year and Three Kings
- New Year's Eve: eat 12 grapes on the 12 chimes of midnight for good luck
- 5 January: the Three Kings parade through the streets in the evening, the biggest night of the season for families
- 6 January: Kings' Day, a public holiday, when children open their presents
A perfect winter day
- A morning walk along the sunny seafront at Nova Icària.
- Lunch on the Rambla del Poblenou.
- The Christmas market in front of the Cathedral as the lights come on.
- Back to Kush House to warm up, open every day from 12:00 to 22:00, holidays included.
Frequently asked questions
Is Barcelona worth visiting in winter?
Yes. It is quieter, the weather is often mild and sunny, and the city looks magical under the Christmas lights.
When do the Christmas lights go on?
In late November. The city announces the exact date each year.
Is Kush House open over the holidays?
Yes, the club is open every day from 12:00 to 22:00, including holidays.
Sources
Visiting Barcelona?
Kush House is a private members' club 3 minutes from Nova Icària beach. Membership is by invitation.
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