Barcelona is one of the most colourful and exciting cities in Europe. Because of this, it has beautiful buildings, numerous shopping areas and cultural attractions that attract tourists during any time of the year. However, how does it looks like to visit Barcelona in December? Is it a good idea? In today’s post, we will look at some of the enchantment or interests that the city presents during the winter month.
Barcelona climate during December
Before we go further and describe the ways how to spend a delightful time in Barcelona in December, let us take a look at the weather. Around December, the nursing believe that the temperatures can go up to 12 °C (54 °F) in the day and can rise to about 7 °C (45 °F) in the night. Although the climate is not suitable for swimming in the sea of the beaches, the climate is fine for visiting around the city.
Festive Atmosphere
As for December, it is a wonderful time in Barcelona because everyone is ready for celebration. The Christmas lights are hanging all over the streets; therefore, numerous Christmas markets are in various parts of the city to offer Christmas gifts and different types of delicacies.
Barcelona Christmas Market
Fira de Santa Llúcia is another famous market of Barcelona which is also called the Christmas Market. Situated before the Barcelona Cathedral it holds over 300 stalls that sell crafted local products, ornaments, and foods. Still, it is one of the best locations to observe the peculiar atmosphere of festive preparations and get souvenirs.
La Fira de Reis
Another great feature of december in Barcelona is La Fira de Reis, which is celebrated around the Three Kings’ Day, January, 6th. It is the biggest fair with lots of stands, selling toys, sweets and souvenirs of Catalonia. The fair is best suited for families and children because of the majesty of the holiday season.
Sights and Attractions
Another advantage of travelling to Barcelona in December it means you get to explore the festivities of the numerous attractions in Barcellona without many other tourists which are usually seen in the summer time.
Sagrada Familia
There is no historic or scenic visit to the city that is complete without a visit to the most popular landmark of Barcelona – the church of the Holy Family designed by the world-famous architect Antoni Gaudí. Visiting this basilica is best done in December because the structure and the carvings are remarkable and there would be no massive crowds.
Park Güell
Another important Barcelonian attraction that could be attributed to Gaudí is a Park Güell. The park provides a beautiful view of the city and although in December the best you can do is have a silent ramble through the beautiful mosaic tiles and structures.
Historic Gothic Quarter
The Gothic Quarter is one of the oldest areas of Barcelona and, as a result, tourists who want to behold a remarkable place packed with history will find it interesting. Visiting it or strolling through its narrow streets one will find medieval houses, small shops, and warm cafes. There is no really bad time to visit the Gothic Quarter but if you want to do most of your walking then December is the best time to visit Barcelona.
Culinary Delights
As one of Spain’s greatest cities that boast of having a fantastic food scene, Barcelona has December as a perfect period for some regional specialties.
Catalan Christmas Cuisine
As for food, as of December, typical festive dishes of Catalonia are prepared: a thick meat and vegetable soup called ‘escudella i carn d’olla’ and nougat, ‘turrón’ in several tastes. You should also pay particular attention to the local dessert “neules” which are very thin and crunchy wafers usually consumed with the sparkling wine referred to as Cava; a Catalan sparkling wine.
Tapas and Seafood
Perfect deserts are tapas and the first thing that comes to my mind about Barcelona is seafood. Uniquely, the local meal of choice is to be had at the more boisterous Barceloneta area where the typical plates include paella, fish and prawns. Eat these with a glass of vino local or a ‘Clara,’ beer blended with lemon soda.
Conclusion
Perhaps, many are planning a trip to Barcelona for summer, but it is also very interesting to visit it in December. Partly because of the holiday feeling, warm weather, crowds, and opportunities to visit well-known attractions without significant lines, it is perfect for winter tourism. Therefore, anyone, who is thinking about a trip to this beautiful city, Barcelona, should not hesitate to plan his trip in December.
