Barcelona is famous around the world for its sunshine, beaches, and long summers, but there are just as many exciting and amazing reasons to visit Barcelona in the winter. Traveling to Spain in the winter has so many advantages and benefits. Here are some reasons why winter in Barcelona might be one of your best trips yet!
Barcelona is not so cold during winter
Because Barcelona has a Mediterranean climate, the winters are very mild when compared to other European countries. Winter in Barcelona is actually quite pleasant, with abundant sun and fair temperatures. December through February, you can expect the daytime highs to be between 13-15°C, perfect for walking around and sightseeing. While you will need a jacket and scarf, the weather isn’t too cold to still be outside and enjoy the sunshine.
Enjoy the relaxing off-season in Barcelona
The lines to Barcelona’s attractions are notoriously long in the summer, so save yourself the hassle and go in the winter. There are smaller crowds on the streets and in the museums, restaurants have more open tables, and you won’t feel as rushed. Winter in Barcelona moves at a slower pace than the summer, making it more relaxed and free to move about.
You’ll save money
Many accommodations, tours and activities lower their prices in the winter to attract tourists, since tourism dips in the colder months. You’ll find that you might save quite a few euros simply by opting to visit Barcelona in the winter rather than the summer. Flights to Barcelona are usually cheaper in the winter, too!
You can warm up with churros and chocolate
It’s true that people eat churros and chocolate all year long, but there’s something extra cozy and delicious about them in the winter. There are many churrerías in Barcelona, but you’ll find the most famous ones in Barcelona on Carrer Petritxol in the Gothic Quarter. Granja Dulcinea and Granja La Pallaresa are two local favorites that have crispy, tasty churros and sweet, delicious chocolate for dipping that you can’t miss.
Granja Dulcinea: Carrer de Petritxol, 2
Granja La Pallaresa: Carrer de Petritxol, 11
Discount shopping is a big deal
During January and February, stores have huge sales to get rid of the season’s stock, with items being marked down as low as 70% off. Shopping becomes a pastime in the winter, with the locals in Barcelona hitting the malls like Glòries, La Maquinista, and L’illa Diagonal. Leave plenty of room in your suitcase for some serious shopping!
The holidays are so much fun
December and January are very festive, with Christmas, New Year’s, and the 3 Kings Day to celebrate. Barcelona goes all out when it comes to decorations, Christmas markets, and many other fun, seasonal holidays. Enjoy the festive atmosphere, special activities, and general sense of holiday happiness that’s so contagious in Barcelona!
Carnaval is a sight to behold
Carnaval is usually in February, depending on the liturgical calendar of the year. People wear costumes and masks and enjoy the festival atmosphere before Lent begins. Barcelona celebrates Carnaval, but the real party is a short train ride away in Sitges. Make a day trip, or even overnight trip, to this beautiful seaside town and get ready to party like a local. Don’t forget your costume!
It’s calçot season
Calçots are a type of wild onion, similar to a leek, that grow in Catalonia in the winter. To celebrate the abundance of this veggie, locals hold barbecues called calçotadas to eat, drink, and be merry. Many restaurants in the winter in Barcelona have a special calçotada menu so that tourists can sample calçots and the food that is typically served at a barbecue. Calçots are a must-eat in Barcelona in the winter!
You’ll feel more like a local
With so many less tourists in the winter, the city has more of a local vibe. Many of the people out on the streets or shopping in the food markets are residents of the city. There is less tourism in the winter, so you’ll feel like you’re a part of the city and get an authentic sense of the real Barcelona. What more could you ask for?
See more: 10 of the Best Cocktail Bars in Barcelona that You Don’t Want to Miss
7 Tips to Enjoy and Explore Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter
The Top 5 Places for the Most Delicious Paella in Barcelona
An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Barcelona in a Weekend
If you’re heading to Barcelona this winter, come stay with us at Olala Homes! Our comfy and cozy apartments are fully equipped and ready for you to enjoy your stay in this magical city!
