Your guide to celebrating Christmas in Barcelona

Thinking about celebrating Christmas in Barcelona? Although the city is mostly known as a summer destination, spending time in Barcelona during the colder months is definitely not a bad idea, especially with temperatures often around 14 degrees Celsius (57 degrees Fahrenheit)! The festive atmosphere during the holidays is amazing, and there are significantly fewer tourists, making it a perfect time to visit. We absolutely love spending Christmas in Barcelona!

From the end of November, the Christmas lights in Barcelona illuminate the city, transforming it into a romantic fairytale town at night—the perfect setting for a lovely evening stroll. Just remember to bring a winter coat or a warm sweater, as it can get chilly once the sun goes down, even in Barcelona.

Table of Contents

• Specials deals during Holiday Season!
• Things to do around Christmas time in Barcelona
• How do locals celebrate Christmas in Barcelona?
• Spanish and Catalan Christmas traditions
• Best Restaurants for Christmas in Barcelona
• What do locals eat at Christmas in Barcelona?
• New Year’s Eve and Three Kings (Epiphany)

Special deals during the Holiday Season!

1. Experience Winter in Barcelona with the Christmas/Winter Card

Discover the best of winter in Barcelona with the Christmas/Winter Card. This exclusive pass offers access to some of the city’s most captivating attractions:

• Sagrada Familia: Explore Gaudí’s masterpiece and marvel at its stunning architecture.
• Els Llums de Sant Pau: Enjoy a magical one-kilometer walk through the spectacular light show at the beautiful modernist hospital, Sant Pau.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: Take advantage of a convenient bus tour to see the city’s highlights at your own pace.

In addition, the Christmas/Winter Card includes:

• Audio Guide: Gain insightful commentary on Barcelona’s key attractions.
• 10% Discount: Receive a discount on all other museums and attractions in Barcelona.

Available as from the end of November-beginning of December.

Book now!

2. Barcelona Christmas Tour: a festive Hop-On Hop-Off Experience

Experience the magic of Barcelona’s Christmas season with the exclusive Barcelona Christmas Tour. This special Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour takes you on a journey through the city’s holiday highlights, including:

• Sagrada Familia: Admire Gaudí’s iconic basilica, beautifully illuminated for the season.
• Arc de Triomf: See this historic landmark adorned with Christmas lights.
• Passeig de Gràcia: Enjoy the stunning Christmas decorations along this famous boulevard.

The tour lasts approximately 90 minutes, showcasing the best of Barcelona’s holiday lights and decorations. Please note that this is a continuous tour, so there are no stops along the route. When we did the tour it was got quite cold, so make sure to bring a warm jackets, a hat and some gloves.

Things to do around Christmas time in Barcelona

Christmas Markets

There are several Christmas markets in the city. The two largest traditional markets can be found at Plaça Nova, near the cathedral (Monday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 8:30 PM and Friday to Sunday from 10:00 AM to 8:30 PM), and around the Sagrada Família (daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and until 10:00 PM during the Christmas holidays). Note: These markets have few food stalls or mulled wine. You will mostly find decorations and Christmas trees, as well as the typical Catalan ‘caganer’ and ‘caga tió’.

The Christmas market at the cathedral will take place from November 25, 2022. The market at the Sagrada Família opens a day later, on November 26. Both markets will be open until December 23.

At the old port (Port Vell), you’ll find another Christmas market: Nadal al Port, or “Christmas at the Port.” This market has a slightly different setup. There is a Ferris wheel, food stalls, and a spectacular LED tree with a daily light and music show. In 2022, this market runs from December 5 to January 6, 2023, and is open from 11:00 AM to 10:30 PM. This year, there is also an ice rink!

Before the Feast of the Epiphany (January 6), Gran Vía is lined with dozens of market stalls offering tasty treats, gifts, and all sorts of knick-knacks. This Three Kings market is open from December 16 to January 6, daily from 10:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on Saturdays and public holidays from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Ice skating

During the Christmas season, you can go ice skating at several places in Barcelona. At the old port (Port Vell), the rink is open from December 5 to January 6, every day from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM. You can also skate at the Illa Diagonal shopping center, from November 26 to January 9, on holidays and weekends from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on weekdays from 5:00 PM.

Since last year (2023) there is also the ice rink at the Tibidabo amusement park. This rink is open from November 26 to January 5; check the park’s website for specific opening hours. Skating at Tibidabo is a bit further away but can be combined with a visit to the amusement park and offers the most stunning views!

All year ’round Christmas shop

Käthe Wohlfart is the best Christmas shop in Barcelona! Here, you can find all the decorations needed for a festive and traditional German Christmas. The shop is located in the Gothic Quarter.

Christmas spectacles

Our recommendation: Els Llums de Sant Pau

Els Llums de Sant Pau is a fantastic light show where the Recinte Modernista de Sant Pau hospital is illuminated. This year, it is open from November 22, 2022, to January 15, 2023.

The doors open every evening for a special walk, about 1.5 kilometers long, guiding you through lights and beautiful decorations. Regular tickets are €14 from Monday to Thursday and €16 from Friday to Sunday.

Make sure to book your tickets in advance. This spectacle is extremely popular among locals and often sells out.

Light & music show at Casa Batlló

During the Christmas season, you can see a special light and music show on the facade of Casa Batlló every evening after dark. It’s definitely worth a visit, and it’s free!

Christmas decorations, nativity scene and Christmas tree

The life-size nativity scene at Plaça de Sant Jaume in the Gothic Quarter is different every year. There is also a large Christmas tree at Plaça Sant Jaume every year.

The Sagrada Família is beautifully lit up every evening! From 6:30 PM, you can enjoy this sight. The 12-pointed Christmas star placed last year atop the Virgin Mary’s tower completes the scene.

Attend a church service

Want to attend a church service on Christmas? You can do so in Barcelona. For example, you can attend Mass at the Santa María del Mar church on December 24 at 11:00 PM. The Sagrada Família does not hold a midnight Mass.

How do locals celebrate Christmas in Barcelona?

Christmas Eve, December 25th and December 26th

For Catalans, the most important Christmas moment is the evening of December 24th, Christmas Eve. Most locals spend this evening with their families, enjoying an elaborate dinner. After dinner, people traditionally attend midnight Mass, which starts at midnight. During the day, most shops are open, although they may close earlier than usual.

On Christmas Day, almost all Spaniards have the day off, and most shops—except for a few small supermarkets in the city center—museums, and other attractions will be closed. Many restaurants also close their doors on this day, so it’s best to check ahead! Restaurants that are open often offer a special Christmas menu or package, so it’s a good idea to make a reservation. Keep in mind that dining out on Christmas is generally more expensive at most restaurants. Later in this article, you’ll find my restaurant tips for Christmas!

Although “Boxing Day” does not exist in Spain, December 26th is still a day off for most Catalans. The day after Christmas is celebrated in the region as the Feast of Saint Stephen (Sant Esteve), the first Christian martyr, and is an official holiday in Catalonia. As a result, most shops are closed on this day.

Are you planning to come to Barcelona around Christmas? Also check out our favorite hotels in Barcelona.

Spanish and Catalan Christmas traditions

Just like in most other countries, a pine tree is common in Spain during Christmas. Another important tradition is the nativity scene (known as pessebre in Catalan and belén in Spanish). However, there are also some unique traditions that you might not be familiar with and that may seem a bit strange. At least, that’s what we experienced when we celebrated our first Christmas in Barcelona…

The Pooping Log

In Catalan households, you’ll find the so-called tió de Nadal (“Christmas log”) in the weeks leading up to Christmas. This is a wooden log with a painted face. The tió is brought into the home on December 8, the Day of the Immaculate Conception, which is also an official holiday in Spain. Children are expected to take good care of it. If they do, the tió de Nadal will “give” them gifts at Christmas. As part of the ritual, children hit the log with a stick while literally asking it to poop. Then, the log “poops” out the presents.

The Pooper

In addition to the tió de Nadal, you will also come across another peculiar figure during Christmas in Barcelona and the rest of Catalonia: the caganer, which literally means “the pooper.” This figure is depicted squatting with its pants down and bare bottom in the nativity scene. It is believed that the caganer symbolizes fertility. Nowadays, these figurines are often modeled after famous football players, politicians, and other celebrities.

Best Restaurants for Christmas in Barcelona

If you’re planning to dine out on Christmas in Barcelona, it’s always a good idea to make a reservation in advance. Many restaurants offer a special Christmas menu at a fixed price, so be aware that you might not always have the option to order à la carte. Here are some top restaurant recommendations in Barcelona for an unforgettable Christmas dinner.

1. El Nacional Barcelona

El Nacional is on of the largest restaurants in Spain and features multiple dining spaces under one roof, each offering a unique culinary experience. The building, once a spacious garage, has been beautifully transformed into a luxurious venue, making it a fantastic place for a Christmas dinner in Barcelona. The diverse menu includes everything from meat and fish dishes to tapas, ensuring there’s something for everyone. El Nacional is an excellent choice if you’re looking to dine with a larger group during the holidays.

2. Los Caracoles – A Taste of Catalan Tradition

For those looking to enjoy authentic Catalan cuisine this Christmas, Los Caracoles is a must-visit. As one of the oldest and most iconic restaurants in Barcelona, Los Caracoles offers a unique experience—starting with walking through the kitchen where they continue to cook over wood fire, a tradition that is rare in the city.

3. Bar Cañete – Cozy and Romantic Dining

Bar Cañete is a charming, smaller restaurant that is ideal for a romantic Christmas dinner in Barcelona. Known for its exquisite selection of cheeses, Spanish ham, and fresh fish, this spot offers both tapas and larger dishes. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to enjoy a more intimate dining experience and extend the evening with a leisurely meal.

4. Boca Grande – Luxury Dining Experience

For a more upscale Christmas dinner in Barcelona, Boca Grande is a fantastic option. Designed by the renowned Lázaro Rosa-Violá, this restaurant offers an impressive atmosphere and a menu featuring delicious meat and fish dishes complemented by fine wines.

Tips for dining out in Barcelona on Christmas

Remember to book your table early for Christmas dining in Barcelona, as many popular restaurants fill up quickly during the holiday season. Also, check ahead to see if the restaurant offers a special Christmas menu, as these are often set menus with specific pricing. Keep in mind that dining out on Christmas can be more expensive than usual, so plan accordingly.

What do locals eat at Christmas in Barcelona?

On Christmas Day in Barcelona, locals enjoy a festive and extensive lunch with family and friends. Here’s a look at some of the traditional dishes you’ll find on the table:

1. Traditional Christmas Day dishes

• Galets soup:
  The meal typically begins with galets, a traditional soup featuring large pasta shells that resemble giant snails. These shells are often filled with meatballs. The soup is enriched with chickpeas or white beans, and vegetables like carrots and cabbage. Each family has its own version of this dish, adding unique twists to the recipe.
• Stuffed turkey:
  After the soup, a main course of meat, such as a stuffed turkey, is usually served. This dish is often filled with flavorful ingredients and cooked to perfection.
• Turrón for dessert:
  The meal concludes with turrón, a sweet nougat treat that is a Christmas favorite in Catalonia. This dessert adds a sweet ending to the holiday feast.

2. Boxing Day dish

• Canelones (Cannelloni):
  On December 26th, also known as Boxing Day or “Sant Esteve” in Catalonia, leftovers from Christmas are transformed into canelones. This dish is a Catalan take on the Italian cannelloni, filled with rich flavors from the meat that has been marinating overnight. The pasta rolls are then topped with creamy béchamel sauce and baked, making it a beloved dish among locals. Each family has its own secret recipe, often passed down through generations.

Sweet specialty from Spain: Turrón

• What is turrón?
  Turrón (or turró in Catalan) is a traditional Spanish nougat made from honey, sugar, egg whites, and nuts. It comes in a variety of textures and flavors and is widely enjoyed during the Christmas season.
• Where to find turrón in Barcelona:
  You can find turrón all over Barcelona in the lead-up to Christmas:
  • Casa Gispert: One of the oldest shops in the city, located in a narrow street near Santa María del Mar in El Born, is famous for its turrón. Expect to wait in line and even take a number due to its popularity.
  • Christmas Markets: You can also sample and buy turrón at various markets around the city, such as the one in front of the Basílica del Pi and in many of the city’s covered markets.
  • Perfect for gifts: Turrón makes an excellent souvenir or a delicious treat to enjoy during your flight home.

New Year’s Eve and Three Kings (Epiphany)

New Year’s Eve in Barcelona

New Year’s Eve, or Nochevieja, is a lively celebration in Barcelona. Festivities kick off around 11:00 PM on Montjuïc with a spectacular show that includes a special New Year’s edition of the famous fountain display, running until approximately 12:30 AM. The night is capped off with a dazzling fireworks display that lights up the city sky.

One unique Catalan tradition is to eat twelve grapes at the stroke of midnight—one grape for each chime of the clock. This tradition can be more challenging than it sounds! To succeed, choose small grapes, peel them ahead of time, and keep a glass of cava (Spanish sparkling wine) handy. In the days leading up to New Year’s, grapes are widely available, and many places distribute packets of twelve grapes for this custom.

Epiphany (Three Kings’ Day) Celebrations

Epiphany, known locally as Día de los Reyes (Three Kings’ Day), is a major holiday in Spain, eagerly anticipated by children and adults alike. On the evening of January 5th, Barcelona hosts the Cabalgata de Reyes, a grand parade with elaborate floats and performers, similar to carnival parades, where candy is thrown to the crowds.

On January 6th, families celebrate by exchanging gifts and enjoying a festive meal. A centerpiece of this celebration is the Roscón de Reyes, a special cake prepared for the occasion. Inside the cake, there are two hidden surprises: a small figurine of a king and a bean. If you find the king in your slice, you get to wear a crown for the day. However, if you find the bean, tradition says you must cover the cost of the cake!