Weather in barcelona spain in december: Barcelona in December 2023 | Weather, Things to Do, Events & More

Barcelona in December 2023 | Weather, Things to Do, Events & More

Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia is famed for its eccentric architecture, delicious tapas and wine. This dazzling city offers architecture, museums, nightlife, beaches and endless entertainment to all its tourists. Barcelona in December is a unique experience with lovely weather and the air is filled with Christmas festivities. Read on to find out how you can make the best of your trip to Barcelona in December. 

Is December a good time to visit Barcelona?

Barcelona in December is delightful to visit. With Christmas just around the corner, Barcelona is filled with decorations, lights and an air of joy.

Why You Should Visit

  • Winter in Barcelona brings good weather and is not as harsh as the rest of Europe.
  • The average temperature is around 14℃.
  • Despite the slight cold, days are sunny ensuring you can visit attractions.
  • Much fewer crowds and lower costs since it’s off season.
  • Christmas festivities and events to experience all around.

What to Look Out For

  • Temperatures can dip to below 5℃ which may be too cold for some tourists.
  • The sea can be too cold to swim in.
  • Rain is more likely than in summer.

Overview of Weather in Barcelona in December

Winter in Barcelona is cool, pleasant and manageable unlike the harsh winters you may find across the rest of Europe. The weather is ideal for sightseeing and enjoying all that Barcelona has to offer. 

Average Temperature: High – 13.8ºC Low – 5.2º

Average Rainfall: 35mm (Very low chances of fog or snow)

Daily Wind Speed: 15mph. Moderate breezes from the north.

Temperature of the sea: 16ºC

Best Time to Visit Barcelona

More About Weather in Barcelona in December

How hot is Barcelona in December?

December is one of the coldest months of the year in Barcelona. Average daily temperatures of 11°C and highs of 14°C. The lows reach 5°C at night. Remember to pack some warm clothing.

Can You Swim at Beaches in Barcelona in December?

The sea is too cold in December to go swimming. Average water temperature is around 16°C.

Does it rain in Barcelona in December?

There are chances of rain on eight days in December. The average rainfall is around 32mm which is much lower than October and November. Snowfall is also highly unlikely.

Is Barcelona Windy in December?

Typical wind speeds in Barcelona in December are generally a moderate 15 mph.

Top 12 Things to do in Barcelona in December

1. Visit La Sagrada Familia

Gaudi’s Attraction | Cathedral

Barcelona’s most visited tourist destination is far less crowded in December. You will witness tall towers, intricately designed facades that take inspiration from nature with fruit motifs, seashells and angled pillars. This monument is one of Gaudi’s masterpieces and attracts more than 4.5 million visitors each year.

December Timings: 09AM – 6PM except 25th and 26th December- 09AM – 2PM

from €47

2. Visit Park Güell

Gaudi’s Attraction | Park

Spread over 18 acres of hilly land, Park Güell is a sight to behold. Stroll through this picturesque location in December with the lovely weather making the experience all the more memorable. It is also home to some of Gaudí’s best works such as the Dragon Stairs, and the Guardian House.

December Timings: Open daily from 08:30AM to 6:15PM

from €10

3. Explore Casa Vicens

Gaudi’s Attraction | House Museum

Casa Vicens was Gaudi’s very first design for a house. It has now been transformed into a museum offering glimpses of the past. It is structured on four floors and Gaudi used the traditional Catalan technique of building load-bearing walls and enclosures with vaults and wooden joists.

December Timings: Open daily from 10AM – 8PM, with last entry at 7PM. Closed on 25th December, 1st and 6th January.

from €16

4. Visit Christmas Markets

Cultural Experience

A highlight of Barcelona in December is all the holiday markets you will find in the city. These markets sell holiday nick-nacks, like traditional cagatió (logs) and you’ll find them installed next to the Cathedral of Barcelona in Plaça Nova and the Sagrada Familia. There is also a free local market in Plaça de Catalunya.

5. Celebrate New Year’s Eve

Event

If you find yourself in Barcelona towards the end of December you have to watch the New Year arrive in style! There’s a public fireworks display every year at the Magic Fountain on Plaça Espanya (starts around 11 pm) and the nightlife is unmissable during this time. 

New Year’s Eve in Barcelona

6. Experience a Thermal Bath

Wellness

What could be better than lounging in a thermal bath during a cool winter? Visit an ancient Roman bath that has been restored in the Gothic Quarters in Barcelona. At Aire de Barcelona you can enjoy hot baths at varied temperatures. You can choose between options like a normal bath, a red wine bath, and a scented room.

December Timings: Mon-Fri: 9AM-11PM. Sat-Sun: 9AM-12AM.

7. Go Museum Hopping

Cultural Experience

Barcelona is renowned for its diverse museums. Explore some of the best museums in Barcelona like Picasso Museum, FC Barcelona Museum, Fundació Joan Miró,Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and many more. Art, history and entertainment define each of these museums that offer you a glimpse into Barcelona’s heritage and culture.

Best Museums in Barcelona

8. Visit Casa Mila

Gaudi’s Attraction | House Museum

Casa Mila is one of Gaudi’s modernist masterpieces and the final residential building he designed. It is also one of the first Antoni Gaudí’s buildings to hold nighttime rooftop activities like the fascinating summer concert. Casa Mila is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning views of Barcelona from its rooftop.

December Timings: December 26 – January 3: Monday to Sunday: 9AM – 8:30PM. Night tour: 9PM – 11PM

from €24

9. Visit Casa Batllo

Gaudi’s Attraction | Landmark Building

Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, Casa Batllo is quirky and unique with a curvy, colorful facade. Gaudi used his pioneering design technique called Trencadis for this building. Casa Batllo is known for an augmented reality guided tour that allows for a dynamic and immersive experience. It is an unmissable landmark!

December Timings: Open daily from 9AM – 9PM, with last entry at 8PM

from €35

10. Watch a Flamenco Show

Cultural Experience

You cannot leave Barcelona without experiencing a traditional Flamenco show. Flamenco is known for its intricate dance moves, the use of the classic flamenco guitar and elaborate costumes. You can sip on a glass of wine as you enjoy watching Spain’s folkloric traditions. This traditional Spanish dance form is unmissable!

11.

Explore La Rambla

City Street

Barcelona’s most popular street is wonderful to explore in December owing to the great weather and less crowds. While you stroll through La Ramblas, you will come across old-school florists, gelaterias and candy stalls. You’ll find Christmas lights and decorations all around.

A Guide to La Rambla Barcelona

12. Stroll through Plaça d’Espanya

City Square

Plaça d’Espanya is one of the biggest squares in Barcelona and offers the best views of the city in December. It was designed by Josep Amargos and features a gorgeous fountain at the center that was designed by  Josep Maria Jujol, a collaborator of Antoni Gaudí. It is especially beautiful during Christmas.

Festivals in Barcelona in December

El Dia dels Sants Innocents

Venue: Across Barcelona

Date: December 28

Sants Innocent is a cheerful local version of April Fool’s Day. You’ll find cut-out newspaper figures attached to the backs of unsuspecting victims. The media joins the fun and introduces fake stories into the day’s coverage. You’ll find pranks being played all around Barcelona.

Events in Barcelona in December

Ice Skating in Plaza Catalunya

Venue: Plaza Catalunya

Dates: End of November

Plaza Catalunya has the biggest ice rink in all of Europe that opens to the public in the third week of November. December is the perfect time to take part in ice-skating and enjoy its thrills! This ice skating rink has enough room for many visitors with a skating area of 1200 square meters.

Fira de Nadal Sagrada Familia

Venue: La Sagrada Familia

Dates: End of November

The Christmas Fair at the Sagrada Família has been running since 1962. It is a traditional Christmas market with over 100 stalls selling a variety of gifts and decorations along with craft products, costume jewellery and clothes.

Fira de Santa Llúcia

Venue: Pla de la Seu & Avda de la Catedral

Dates: End of November

Dating back to 1786, this traditional Christmas fair has more than 300 stalls selling all kinds of handcrafted Christmas decorations and gifts, along with mistletoe, poinsettias and Christmas trees. You’ll find a Nativity scene contest, musical parades and exhibitions.

Know Before You Visit Barcelona in December

Travel Essentials

What to Wear

What to Pack

Transport

Stay

Food

Time Zone: GMT +2

Currency: Euro – EUR – €

Country code: +34

Emergency numbers: 112

What to Wear in Barcelona in December

  • Remember to carry jackets, coats, light sweaters and scarves that can serve as layers you wear/take off during the course of the day.
  • Despite being winter, it is still sunny in Barcelona, so carry a pair of sunglasses and ample sunscreen.
  • During the day, you will be comfortable in shorts, skirts, trousers and a light jacket or sweater.
  • In the evening, it can get colder, so carry scarves and heavier jackets. 

What to Pack in Barcelona in December

  • Power Adapter: A type F plug (grounded) or a type C plug (non-grounded).
  • Clothes: Shorts, trousers, skirts, blouses, light jackets, coats, cardigans and scarves. Layering is important in Barcelona in December.
  • Comfortable shoes.
  • An umbrella in case it rains.
  • A backpack to carry around during the day with enough compartments for all your belongings.

Getting Around Barcelona in December

By Metro: Barcelona metro is an extensive electric railway network. It runs mostly underground and has eight lines and 161 stations. Metro map.

By Bus: With 200 lines that run till late in the night extensively covering the city, exploring Barcelona by bus is convenient and cost-efficient. City bus map.

By Cable Car (Funicular): There are three cable car lines in Barcelona that you can hop onto and take in majestic views of the city. Two lines reach Tibidabo while others offer access to Montjuïc.

On Foot:Exploring Barcelona by foot, especially in December, is a great idea given the temperature. Many attractions are at a short distance from each other making for the perfect walk.

Where to Stay in Barcelona in December

With Christmas cheer and joy all around you, Barcelona in December is a treat! Choose from a variety of gorgeous hotels to spend the perfect December in Barcelona.

Budget Hotels – Hostal Boqueria, Vincci Bit, Hotel Oasis, Casa Kessler, Violeta Boutique

Mid Range – Murmuri Residence Mercader, Hotel Cuatro Naciones, Mayerling Schumann Barcelona

Luxury Hotels – Mercer Hotel, Mandarin Oriental, Grand Hotel Central, Majestic Hotel & Spa, Soho House

What to eat in Barcelona in December

Try these traditional Christmas dishes in Barcelona for a memorable holiday!

Escudella: This is a stew made from chicken, beef, pork backbone and ham bone’s bouillon.

Cannelloni: This traditional dish is eaten on December 26 and is made from chicken stuffed with meat and bechamel sauce.

Cochinillo Asado: This traditional Spanish dish is essentially a roast pig served with potatoes and a brown sauce. It is very popular during Christmas. 

Mantecados and Polvorones: These are tiny, baked Christmas cookies often served with wine. 

Hacks & Tips to Visit Barcelona in December

  • December is a great time to visit. Expect low accommodation prices and fewer crowds around major attractions.
  • If you’re interested in watching the sunrise in Barcelona at popular attractions, it’s a lot easier since the sun rises two hours later than usual. 
  • December 6 is Constitution Day in Spain so a lot of locals get the day off and head to Barcelona making it unusually crowded for December. 
  • Don’t forget to pick up souvenirs from the Christmas markets since they’re only available once a year.
  • Wear layers of clothing and carry warm clothes since the weather is cooler in December. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Barcelona in December

Is December a good time to visit Barcelona?

Yes, Barcelona in December has a cool, pleasant weather and fewer tourist crowds.

What are the best things to do in Barcelona in December?

Is Barcelona cold in December?

The average temperature of Barcelona in December ranges between a high of 13ºC and a low of 5º.

How hot is Barcelona in December?

Barcelona in December is cold as it is a winter month. Expect temperatures averaging between 13ºC and 5º.

Can you swim in Barcelona in December?

The sea is cool in December and might be difficult to swim in because of the temperature.

Is it sunny in Barcelona in December?

Though it is winter in December, the days are sunny and pleasant.

What clothes to wear in Barcelona in December?

Bring jackets, light coats, sweaters, scarves and other things to layer yourself with.

Is it rainy in Barcelona in December?

It rains for not more than 5 days in Barcelona in December.

Is Barcelona expensive to visit?

Barcelona in December is budget friendly because it is off season. Hotel and air fare prices are lower than the rest of the year. You can plan an inexpensive vacation by booking your tickets in advance online.

How safe is Barcelona?

Barcelona is generally safe for tourists. Watch out for pickpockets and petty thieves.

What can I see in Barcelona in December?

La Sagrada Familia, Park Guell, Casa Vicens, Casa Mila, Christmas Markets are some of the many attractions you can visit with much fewer crowds in Barcelona in November.

What are the major events in Barcelona in December?

Fira de Santa Llúcia, El Dia dels Sants Innocents are some major events in Barcelona in December.

What is the average temperature in Barcelona in December?

The average high is 13.8°C and the average low is 5.2°C in Barcelona in December.

What are the best things to do with Kids in Barcelona in December?

Take your kids to a traditional Christmas market and museum hopping are exciting things to do with your kids in Barcelona in December.

Weather in December in Barcelona

Page Content

On this page you will find our day by day weather log that will give you an accurate idea of the typical weather conditions in Barcelona during the month of December.

Each day for an entire year I recorded the exact daily weather conditions including temperatures in both Fahrenheit and Centigrade, along with if it was dry, rainy or overcast. By the time you have looked through the table you will know what weather to expect in December and what type of clothes to bring on your holiday.

To see my weather log for other months in Barcelona or to see the current weather conditions please refer to our “Related Pages” section at the foot of this page where you will find links to these pages.

Summary of temperatures and weather in December:

Average temperature: 14° C or 57.2 F
Maximum temperature: 16° C or 60.8 F
Minimum temperature: 8° C or 46.4 F

Our Advice

You can see from this weather log that Barcelona will have clear skies in December. A little chilly most of the time since it’s winter but it never gets really cold here and it’s still a good time to go out and just walk around. Just make sure to bring warm clothes and a light waterproof jacket and umbrella for the odd shower.

Day by Day weather log for Barcelona Weather in December

December 31

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Nice Jump in temperature today. Clear skies and sunshine for most of the day.

Day 30

Daily Comment: Temperature 10° C around 50.0 F clear skies in the morning but became a overcast around 14:00. Dry all day.

Day 29

Daily Comment: Temperature 10° C around 50.0 F – a little warmer today. Skies were mostly clear.

Day 28

Daily Comment: Temperature 8° C around 46.4 F It was chilly today – dry all day but overcast. A cool breeze made it seem colder.

Day 27

Daily Comment: Temperature 10° C around 50.0 F Dry but overcast.

Day 26

Daily Comment: Temperature 8° C around 46. 4 F Cloudy for most of the day.

Day 25

Daily Comment: Temperature 11° C around 52 F Overcast but dry – occasional sunshine but still chilly. Merry Christmas to you all, wherever you may be.

Day 24

Daily Comment: Temperature 12° C around 53 F Clear and sunny all day.

Day 23

Daily Comment: Temperature 11° C around 52 F Clear skies all day.

Day 22

Daily Comment: Temperature 12° C around 53 F Clear skies all day but a touch on the chilly side.

Day 21

Daily Comment: Temperature 12° C around 53 F Cooler day today. No rain but there were some light clouds.

Day 20

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Clear skies for most of the day although a cool breeze made it feel a little colder than of late.

Day 19

Daily Comment: Temperature 16° C around 61 F Clear skies with sunshine. Is this Winter?

Day 18

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Mostly overcast all day today. Although still mild for this time of year.

Day 17

Daily Comment: Temperature 16° C around 61 F Overcast but mild day.

Day 16

Daily Comment: Temperature 16° C around 61 F Sunny this morning but became overcast around 13:00 skies cleared again at 16:40 making it an overall a pleasant day for the middle of Winter.

Day 15

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Another mild day today but it was overcast for most of the day.

Day 14

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Day was mild with some light cloud but generally a pleasant day.

Day 13

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Clear skies all day.

Day 12

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Clear skies and sunny all day.

Day 11

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Sun with some cloud at times.

Day 10

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F cloudy most of the day.

Day 9

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Cloudy for most of the day with some outbreaks of rain at times.

Day 8

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Warmer today but it was a real mix of weather, Sunshine, cloud and a little rain. But I’m sure you’ll agree 15 Celsius is pretty good for December.

Day 7

Daily Comment: Temperature 13° C around 55 F Cloudy with rain at times.

Day 6

Daily Comment: Temperature 11° C around 52 F Clear skies for most of the day with sunshine but it was feeling a lot cooler today.

Day 5

Daily Comment: Temperature 13° C around 55 F Cooler today. Mainly overcast for much of the day.

Day 4

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Clear skies with sunshine.

Day 3

Daily Comment: Temperature 13° C around 55 F Clear skies with sun all day.

Day 2

Daily Comment: Temperature 16° C around 61 F Sunny with clear skies all day.

Day 1

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Clear skies with sunshine for most of the day. Became a little cloudy around 15:00 onwards.

Average weather in Barcelona in December

Tourists don’t forget about Barcelona even in December. At this time, preparations for the New Year holidays, especially for Christmas, are very beautiful here. The weather in Barcelona in December is acceptable for walks along the promenades and excursion programs to numerous attractions. Hotels at this time are fabulously transformed, attracting attention with colorful lights. Bright garlands also sparkle on the streets and in shop windows, creating a cozy and festive feeling.

The air temperature throughout December stays at the same level of +13 °С – +15 °С, although slight changes are still observed. During the day the temperature can rise from +10 °С to + 18 °С. Therefore, afternoon walks will certainly benefit, though you still need to wear a jacket and a light hat. At night, the air temperature does not drop below +5 °C. The sea is also cold in December, so you can meet only seasoned tourists or not quite normal our compatriots in the water. The average temperature of the Mediterranean Sea is + 14 °C. But in the pools, which are located on the territory of the selected hotel, you can swim with pleasure. For those tourists who want to visit Spain in the middle of winter, we have prepared an article about the weather in Barcelona in January – we recommend reading it!

December sky over Barcelona

Despite the cool air, the weather in Barcelona in December is mostly clear. The sun shines for 20 days out of the entire calendar month, although it does not warm much with its rays. Precipitation is negligible, the rain waters Barcelona for only 3-5 days for the entire month. Therefore, umbrellas may not be needed at all. But you need to take different clothes. In December, a warm sweater, a light windbreaker, and a winter jacket will come in handy. We advise you to take warm clothes with you for those tourists who like to take a walk in the late evening. Snow in December is quite rare.

Statistics

To get a better idea of ​​the temperatures in December in Barcelona, ​​you can check out the temperature range table, which will give you a clearer picture.

33 10÷17

9034 900 3 14÷15

30

033 12÷15

902 033 6÷11

9003

30

033 12÷16
Dry statistics – change in sea and air temperature in December in recent years
December weather in Barcelona/date Air temperature in Barcelona during the day Air temperature in Barcelona at night Barcelona sea temperature
1 10÷16 5÷14 14÷15
5÷12 14÷15
3 10-14 6-12 14-15
4 10-16 15
5 12÷18 10÷12 14÷15
6 13÷17 6÷13 14÷15
7 15÷17
8 16÷19 9÷15 14÷15
9 12÷17 7÷13 14÷15
7÷11 14÷15
11 11÷15 7÷10 14÷15
12 11-16 8-10 14-15 0034

14÷15
14 12÷18 7÷14 14÷15
15 16÷19 4÷14 14÷15 9003 1009 0034

8÷18 5÷14 14÷15
17 12÷18 5÷14 14÷15
18 9÷15 5÷11 14÷15
19 14÷15
20 15÷16 7÷12 14÷15
21 7÷18 8÷13
22 11÷15 9÷11 14÷15
23 15÷17 8÷13 14÷15
24 13÷16 5÷12 14÷15
4 9013 0034

4÷13 14÷15
26 13÷15 2÷9 14÷15
27 11÷15 5÷11 9004 903÷9

28 12÷16 6÷10 13÷14
29 13÷15 7÷11 13÷14
30 13÷17 9÷12 13÷14
9÷14 13÷14

Weather in December in Barcelona

Page Content

This page provides a daily weather report that will give you an idea of ​​the weather in Barcelona during the month of December.

Every day for a year, I noted data on weather conditions, including temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit, as well as the presence of clouds and precipitation. After reviewing the table, you will know what the weather will be like in December and what things you should take with you on your trip.

To view weather reports for other months, as well as information about current weather conditions, see the “ Related Pages for ” section at the end of this article for the relevant links.

December weather report:

Average temperature: 14° C or 57.2 F
Maximum temperature: 16° ​​C or 60.8 F
Minimum temperature: 8° C or 46.4 F

Our recommendations:

From the report below, it appears that skies in Barcelona will be clear in December. It will be a little cool, after all, it is winter outside, but it does not get very cold, and the weather is pleasant enough for walking. Take warm clothes and an umbrella with you in case it rains, which is rare.

Barcelona daily weather report for the month of December

December 31

Journal Entry: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Pleasant jump in temperature. Most of the day the sky was clear and the sun shone.

Day 30

Daily Comment: Temperature 10° C around 50.0 F Clear skies in the morning but overcast by 2 pm. There was no rain.

Day 29

Daily Comment: Temperature 10° C around 50.0 F A little warmer today. Almost cloudless.

Day 28

Daily Comment: Temperature 46.4 F around 8° C Very cool today with no rain although it was a cloudy day. The cool wind made it even colder.

Day 27

Daily Comment: Temperature 10° C around 50.0 F Overcast but no rain.

Day 26

Daily Comment: Temperature 8° C around 46. 4 F Cloudy most of the day.

Day 25

Daily Comment: Temperature 11° C around 52 F Overcast but no rain. The sun came out occasionally, but it was still chilly!! Merry Christmas everyone, wherever you are / John

Day 24

Daily Comment: Temperature 12° C around 53 F Sunny and clear all day.

Day 23

Daily Comment: Temperature 11° C around 52 F Cloudless day.

Day 22

Daily Comment: Temperature 12° C around 53 F Clear skies but a bit chilly!

Day 21

Daily Comment: Temperature 12° C around 53 F Colder today. There was no rain, but there were small clouds.

Day 20

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Most of the day was clear and the cool wind made it seem colder than it really is.

Day 19

Daily Comment: Temperature 16° C around 61 F Great weather with clear skies and sunshine. Is it really winter?

Day 18

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F – Overcast most of the day. It’s not cold at all for this time of year.

Day 17

Daily Comment: Temperature 16° C around 61 F Overcast but not cold.

Day 16

Daily Comment: Temperature 16° C around 61 F Sunny in the morning but overcast after 13:00 and clear again by 16:40. It was a very pleasant day for the middle of winter.

Day 15

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Another warm day, though mostly overcast.

Day 14

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F It was warm with some clouds but overall a pleasant day.

Day 13

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Cloudless day.

Day 12

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Clear and sunny day.

Day 11

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Sunny day with occasional clouds.

Day 10

Daily Comment: Temperature 14° C around 57 F Cloudy day.

Day 9

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Cloudy most of the day with occasional drizzle.

Day 8

Daily Comment: Temperature 15° C around 59 F Warmer today but very changeable weather with sunshine, clouds and some rain. But I’m sure you will agree that 15 degrees for December is very good!

Day 7

Daily Comment: Temperature 13° C around 55 F Cloudy with occasional rain.