Barcelona is one of the most visited Spanish cities throughout the year. Not only for being a cosmopolitan and modernist city, but for the variety of plans it offers, with so many alternatives for all ages and personal tastes. Whether traveling as a couple, traveling with a group of friends or with family, there are always plenty of reasons to visit and enjoy this city. During the Christmas period, its charm is magnified, the streets are dressed in color, with Christmas lights and decorations that make the Christmas spirit is contagious in every corner, getting visitors and tourists are impressed. Below, we are going to tell you about some of the most special places to visit in Barcelona during the Christmas period.
Cultural visits to museums
Cultural visits to museumsThe advantage of visiting Barcelona at Christmas, is that the influx of tourism decreases, so it is a great opportunity for art lovers who wish to tour and immerse themselves in the culture of its museums. Among the most recommended are the National Art Museum of Catalonia, Museum of History of Barcelona, Casa Vicens Gaudi, Casa Batló and the Picasso Museum, among many others.
Christmas markets
To fully immerse yourself in the Christmas spirit of Barcelona, there is nothing better than walking the streets and visiting one of the popular Christmas markets. There you will find a wide variety of typical Christmas sweets, crafts of all kinds, such as the famous nativity scenes, and Christmas decorations for the home, such as trees and wonderful poinsettias. In addition, in any of them you can find original souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones. Among the oldest and most famous Christmas markets are Fira de Santa Llúcia, for being the oldest in Barcelona; Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia, which is a Christmas tradition since the 60s; the Festivalet, which is a fair where young artisans exhibit their designs; and, of course, the Christmas Market El Palace, inspired by European Christmas markets.
Christmas events in Barcelona
During this period, Barcelona begins a few days where music and performances become the protagonists. If you travel with your group of friends to Barcelona, you can not miss some of the musical shows and Christmas performances, such as operas, blues, jazz and other symphonic. A whole explosion of art floods these special days. Where can you enjoy the Christmas events? In places as emblematic as the Barcelona Auditorium, the Palau de la Música or the Gran Teatro del Liceu.
Tradition at sea
Despite the low temperatures, it is tradition that, during Christmas Day, a swimming race is held in the Mediterranean Sea, the Barcelona Swimming Club Christmas Cup. For about 200 meters, thousands of locals participate in this competition to celebrate Christmas. If you happen to be there, this is a traditional event you can’t miss. In addition, you will have the chance to enjoy the lively coast of Barcelona, its beaches and stroll along the seaport.
The Holy Family
Gaudi’s great masterpiece, the Sagrada Familia, during the Christmas season, is adorned with light and color effects throughout the facade. As with museums, Christmas is the ideal time to visit this emblematic monument of modernist architecture. Our recommendation is to stroll through the surrounding streets, enjoy a Christmas sweet overlooking the cathedral and visit the Christmas market. As you can see, visiting Barcelona during the festive Christmas season is an opportunity to get to know and enjoy this city in a different way. Tradition, art and fun become the protagonists of your visit.
