When visiting the city, you may want to know what the weather in Barcelona is like. Don’t let the fact that December is a winter month in Barcelona put you off. This festive month is still an excellent opportunity to explore the city.

Barcelona is a vibrant city with plenty of things to see and do in December, making it an ideal destination for a winter break.

Let us show you why December in Barcelona is the most wonderful time of the year.

Guide to Barcelona – December

Barcelona may be considered a summer city for fun in the sun, but you shouldn’t dismiss it so quickly as a winter city. While you may not be able to swim in the sea or laze on the beach, there are still many perks to visiting this spectacular city in the winter.

One of the perks of visiting Spain in December is that it is generally less busy than the peak summer months. However, booking accommodations and attractions in advance is still advisable, especially during the Christmas and New Year’s periods.

In December, you can expect Christmas markets and festive events all around the city, but they are generally spread out and easily navigated. The main attractions, like the Sagrada Familia and Park Guell, are less crowded in December than during summer, making it a great time to visit.

As for pricing, December is considered a low season for tourism in Barcelona, so prices for accommodations, flights, and attractions are generally lower than during the peak summer months. However, prices may be higher during Christmas and New Year.

Barcelona in December offers an outstanding balance of cultural events and attractions without the overwhelming crowds of the peak tourist season. Plus, you can enjoy the festive atmosphere and explore the city’s landmarks and museums without breaking the bank.

Barcelona Weather in December

Although the weather in Spain in December may be chilly, it’s still mild compared to many other European cities.

In Barcelona, the weather in December can be somewhat unpredictable. The temperature typically ranges from around 48°F (9°C) to 59°F (15°C), with an average of about 54°F (12°C).

While the days are typically sunny and pleasant, it’s not uncommon to experience cloudy, rainy, or even windy weather during this time of year.

Quick Tip: To be prepared for the weather, dress in layers and bring an umbrella, just in case.

Despite the occasional chill, December is a great time to visit Barcelona, as the city’s holiday festivities and seasonal decorations add to its charm. The cooler weather also makes it easier to explore outdoor attractions, like the Gothic Quarter, without the sweltering heat of the summer months.

The weather in Barcelona, Spain, in December may not be as consistently sunny and warm as other times of the year. But it’s still a great time to experience the city’s unique culture and festive holiday spirit.

What to Pack For Spain in December

When packing for the weather in Barcelona in December, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, you’ll need a warm coat or jacket, preferably waterproof or water-resistant.

Barcelona can be quite rainy in December, so it’s also a good idea to bring an umbrella. Also bring these essentials for staying cozy in the chilly weather:

• Warm sweaters
• Long-sleeved shirts
• Pants or jeans to keep your legs warm.
• Scarves
• Gloves
• Hats

Barcelona is a fashionable city, so you’ll want to pack stylish clothing for evenings out. Consider bringing dressier outfits and comfortable shoes for exploring the city’s nightlife and restaurants. Comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing during the day is also a good idea.

Sunglasses and sunscreen are essential too if you plan on doing any outdoor activities.

Lastly, remember any necessary electronics and accessories, such as a camera, phone charger, and travel adapter.

When packing for Barcelona in December, it’s important to prioritize warmth and comfort while also considering the city’s stylish atmosphere. By packing accordingly, you’ll be able to fully enjoy all that this vibrant city has to offer, even in the colder winter months.

What to do in Barcelona in December

Even though you may not want to swim in the sea, there is still plenty to do in Barcelona in December. This dazzling city still offers unique architecture, delicious tapas, and great nightlife. The local festive spirit adds a special charm to adventures around the city during this time. There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona in December.

Be Enchanted by Christmas Markets and Lights

One of the most popular events in December is the Fira de Santa Llucia, the traditional Christmas market, which takes place in the city center.

Here, you can browse stalls selling traditional Catalan gifts and decorations, such as the famous “caga tió” (a Christmas log with a face and a red hat). You can also enjoy some delicious seasonal treats like churros with hot chocolate.

Top Tip: Go on a Merry Markets Private Christmas Tour to experience Christmas in Catalonia like a local.

Another must-see attraction during the holiday season is the Nativity Scene, or “Pessebre,” displayed in the Gothic Quarter. This intricate, life-size representation of the birth of Jesus is a beloved tradition in Catalonia, and visitors can marvel at the intricate details and figurines.

Take the time to marvel at the Christmas lights. Barcelona lights up with festive lights during December, a magical sight to behold. The best places to see the Christmas lights include Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gracia, and La Rambla.

Top Tip: Take a customizable Private Christmas Walking Tour with a drink in hand and explore historic Barrio Gótico as it is lit up with colorful lights.

Attend a Concert and go Museum Hopping

December is a great time to attend a concert or show. The city has a thriving arts scene, and there are plenty of concerts, shows, and performances to enjoy in December.

The Gran Teatre del Liceu is a great place to catch a classical music performance, while the Palau de la Musica Catalana is an iconic venue for jazz and other genres.

Due to the relatively quiet nature of the city during this time, it is the perfect opportunity to visit the city’s museums, to get a feel for the history and culture, while escaping the cold. Barcelona is home to some of the world’s most impressive museums, including the Picasso Museum and the Joan Miro Foundation.

Top Tip: Get to know one of the best street artists of the century and visit the Bansky Museum in Barcelona for an unforgettable experience!

Visit Landmarks and do Some Shopping

Barcelona is known for its unique architecture and there are several fascinating landmarks around the city. December is a great time to visit landmarks like the Sagrada Familia and Casa Batlló, as there are fewer crowds than in the peak tourist season.

Winter in Barcelona is still the perfect time to enjoy tapas and sip wine or enjoy a night of traditional flamenco dancing. And remember to take advantage of the international shopping experience for your Christmas shopping needs.

Final Thoughts | Barcelona in December

There are plenty of things to do in Barcelona in December, and you are sure to have a memorable experience exploring the city’s festive atmosphere and cultural offerings.

While the weather may be chilly, Barcelona still has plenty to offer in December.

Overall, visiting Barcelona in December offers a unique and festive atmosphere that will delight visitors of all ages.

The post Barcelona in December: Weather and What to Do appeared first on Traveling in Spain.

With different climates in different areas of Spain, you’ll be sure to find a place to settle during the cold month of January. And with several things to do to keep you warm, you won’t even notice the temperature outside. Let’s look at the climate and temperature in different areas of Spain during January.

Climate and Temperature in Spain

Spain is known as a sunny country. It has a recorded 3,000 hours of sun every year. Even though it has a reputation for being a hot country, the temperature in Spain is generally pretty mild.

Because of its large size, Spain has three different climates:

Along the northern coast of Spain, near the Cantabrian mountains, you’ll find a maritime climate. Cities like Cantabria and Galicia usually have mild winters and cool summers. There is frequent rainfall, and the weather is often cloudy.

Central Spain, known as the Meseta, has a more continental climate. The summers are dry, hot and sunny, and the winters are quite cold. You’ll experience rainfall mostly during spring and fall. There is also snowfall closer to the mountains that surround this area.

Closer to the southern part of Spain, there is a Mediterranean climate. Spain is generally known for having this type of climate. The winters are rainy, and the summers are hot and dry. The area around Murcia has an almost African climate, being quite hot in general. The average temperature in Spain truly differs from climate to climate.

Spain Weather in January

To find the perfect place for you to spend January in Spain, we have to discover different parts of Spain. Let’s take a look at the weather and climate in different areas and cities in Spain during January.

Weather in Southern Spain in January

As mentioned above, the southern part of Spain has a Mediterranean climate. Thus, even in January, the average temperatures are a little warmer than in the rest of Spain.

In places like Malaga and Costa del Sol, temperatures can reach highs of 64°F and lows of 45°F. The weather is enjoyable during the day. It’s warm enough to go sightseeing and do activities.

However, when the sun sets, it starts getting quite cold. You will see locals wearing thick coats all day long, so follow their lead and have something warm with you at all times.

The Coldest and Hottest Parts of Spain in January

The area of Castilla y León has been named the coldest part of Spain. In general, the highest average temperature is 46°F in January. Temperatures can also reach as low as 32°F. On January 7th, 2024, Spain recorded its lowest temperature since records began in Vega de Liordes, Castilla y León. The temperature reached -31°F.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Andalusia has been named the hottest part of Spain in January. With an average temperature of 59°F that never goes lower than around 40°F, Andalusia is the place to go if you don’t enjoy the cold. You can still have a beach holiday in Andalusia, even in January.

Barcelona, Spain | Weather in January

Located in Catalonia, the weather in Barcelona is pretty much on par with the rest of Spain. Averaging about 47°F, you might want to consider a warm jacket when exploring. It’s relatively cloudy, but you shouldn’t expect much rainfall, as Barcelona averages about three days of rain in January.

Instead of running away from the cold, take a ski trip to the mountains of Andorra. There are trips that go from Barcelona, and an entire weekend can go for only €260 ($278). This includes your return trip from Barcelona, meals, ski passes, and equipment.

If you want to stay in Barcelona, then be sure to celebrate Three Kings Day. The Cavalcada de Reis is a parade that happens every year on January 5th, and Catalans tend to give gifts on this day instead of Christmas.

Madrid, Spain | Weather in January

Madrid is quite cold during January, averaging a temperature of 41°F. You can expect it to be cloudy and rainy, with an average of 6 days of rainfall. However, there are still a lot of things to do.

Head to Sierra de Guadarrama for some winter sports. Since mountains surround Madrid, January is usually the perfect time for skiing and snowboarding. The slopes are about an hour away. However, you can get there easily using public transport.

And if you don’t feel like venturing too far, you have to visit the Royal Palace. No trip to Madrid is complete without visiting the official residence of the Spanish royal family. That would be like visiting London and not going to Buckingham Palace.

Mallorca, Spain | Weather in January

As one of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is warmer than Barcelona and Madrid. Mallorca, an island in the Mediterranean, has an average temperature of 50°F in January. The weather is only partly cloudy most of the time. However, there is a moderate chance of rainfall.

During this time, be sure to visit the Alfabia estate. It was the residence of Behabet, a Muslim lord and former governor of Mallorca in the 13th century. As such, the estate boasts some of the most gorgeous gardens. You can also see the Raixa Finca, an old-time Moorish farmstead developed in the 18th century.

Seville, Spain | Weather in January

Sevilla, as it’s known in Spanish, is located within the province of Andalusia. This means that Seville does not do winter like the rest of Spain. With an average temperature of around 55°F, January in Seville is quite pleasant. However, the weather can be partly cloudy, and there’s a moderate chance of rainfall.

During January, some fun things to do in Seville include taking a tapas cooking class or maybe even a Flamenco dance class to stay warm. A tapas food and wine tour is also great for when you want to eat but not cook. You can spend a night with some sharks or dine with the fishes at the Seville Aquarium.

Final Thoughts on the Weather in January in Spain

With so many activities to try in Spain during January, we believe that you shouldn’t miss out on even the cold months. So on your next trip to Spain, be sure to go during January. You will most definitely enjoy the skiing opportunities and lovely tapas tours.

And you’ll have bragging rights to your friends because you got to go snowboarding in Madrid or spent a night with sharks in Seville. Be sure to pack your winter clothes and essentials for an amazing experience.

The post Spain in January | Activities, Climate, Temperature, and More appeared first on Traveling in Spain.

Spain is known as a sweltering country. Some businesses and companies close down in the middle of the day so people can go home and take a nap, or siesta, as it’s too hot to do anything. But there are cities that boast some gorgeous Spanish winters, and Barcelona is one of them.

The Catalan city actually has delightful weather all year round. Let’s look at the weather in Barcelona before you head off on your trip.

Barcelona Weather by Month

The easiest way to decide when the best time is to visit Barcelona would be to learn about the weather every month. Because of the city’s location and geography, Barcelona’s climate has been classed as Mediterranean.

January

January is known as the coldest month in Barcelona, with an average temperature of 47°F. The weather in Barcelona is cloudy with a low chance of rainfall. January is very windy, but luckily there’s no humidity. You will have about 10 hours of sunshine every day.

A food tour is a wonderful idea to keep warm, but a walking wine tour or a paella cooking class are good too.

February

In February, the weather starts to get warmer for spring. The average temperature is around 49°F. February can be quite cloudy with a low chance of rainfall. The weather is windy, and you’ll have about 11 hours of sun every day.

Watching a Flamenco show while enjoying a glass of wine is a great way to stay warm. Also, be sure to visit Park Guell. The fewer crowds during February make this the perfect time to explore the remarkable Gaudi House museum.

March

At the start of spring, March has an average temperature of 53°F. It’s still quite cloudy, though, and the chance of rainfall increases. March in Barcelona is still very windy, but there’s no humidity. You’ll have sun for about 12 hours every day.

On a lovely March evening, be sure to go for a walk in the Gothic neighborhoods of Ramblas and Barri Gotic. Afterward, grab some food at one of their charming cafés.

April

April has enjoyable weather, averaging at about 56°F. The weather can still be cloudy, and there’s a high chance of rainfall. It’s not as windy, though, and there’s no humidity. You’ll have around 13 hours of sun every day.

The weather makes it perfect for a trip to PortAventura World. There are few tourists during this time, which means more opportunities to enjoy the rides, events, and games.

May

May is the hottest month of spring, with an average temperature of 62°F. The weather is a bit cloudier than usual, and there’s a high chance of rainfall. May is not as windy but can range between comfortable and humid weather. You’ll have around 15 hours of sun every day.

Take a trip to Montserrat. Located on the grounds of a 10th-century medieval castle, Montserrat allows you to play a game of golf. Afterward, enjoy a nice Catalan lunch with premium wines in the vineyards.

June

June is the start of summer and the hottest season in Barcelona. It has an average temperature of 70°F. There are no clouds but a medium chance of rainfall. It’s not very windy, but the temperature can range between comfortable, humid, and muggy. You’ll have around 15 hours of sun every day.

June is perfect for a trip to Tibidabo Amusement Park. This park is a century old and located at the peak of Mount Tibidabo. With a gorgeous view of Barcelona, you’ll enjoy the scenery on every ride.

July

July is known as the driest and sunniest month in Barcelona. There’s an average temperature of 75°F, no clouds, and the lowest rainfall all year. The weather can range between comfortable, humid, muggy, and even oppressive. You will have around 15 hours of sun every day.

Catch a game at Camp Nou. The home ground of FC Barcelona, this is the perfect place for any sports fanatic. And if you’re not keen on football, go hiking through Barcelona. You can access many trails directly from the city.

August

August is known as the hottest month in Barcelona, with an average temperature of 76°F. There are no clouds, but August has a medium chance of rainfall. The wind speeds start picking up again. Weather in August can be comfortable, humid, muggy, or oppressive. You’ll have around 14 hours of sun every day.

Go cool down at the Barcelona Aquarium. You can find numerous different types of marine life here and even watch the penguins during feeding time. Get close to some sharks by going for a shark cage dive.

September

September is the start of fall but is still one of the hottest months of the year, with an average temperature of 71°F. It starts to get cloudy again, and the chance of rainfall is high. September is windy and can range from humid to muggy weather. There are around 12 hours of sun every day.

September is festival season in Barcelona. Be sure to visit the Barcelona Taste Food Tour to discover gastronomic heaven. Don’t miss out on the Le Mercé Festival—the biggest street party held in Barcelona.

October

Now we’re jumping into the wettest month of the year. October has an incredibly high chance of rainfall. The average temperature in Barcelona is 63°F, and the weather is cloudy. Wind speeds are higher, but the level of humidity drops drastically. You’ll have around 11 hours of sun every day.

Barcelona is known for its Halloween parties. Take a trip into town, and you’ll quickly find a lively party on the 31st of October. Don’t miss out on the BAUM fest. There are expos on breakdancing, extreme sports, and even tattoos.

November

November is the nicest of the cold months. There’s an average temperature of 54°F, and it’s less cloudy than in October. The chance of rainfall also drops, and there’s barely any humidity. It’s still a bit windy, though. You can expect around 10 hours of sun every day.

Be sure to visit La Sagrada Familia, one of Barcelona’s most popular tourist destinations. You’ll be able to catch some more of Gaudi’s famous artworks here without the bustle of tourists.

December

Now we’re at the start of winter. December has an average temperature of 48°F but isn’t very cloudy. There’s no humidity, but December is the windiest month. The chance of rainfall is low. You can expect 9 hours of sun every day.

Don’t miss out on the Christmas markets, where you can buy traditional cagatió (logs). Be sure to visit Aire de Barcelona. With a range of Roman-style baths at different temperatures, it’s great for the cold weather. You can even have a red wine bath here.

Final Thoughts on the Weather in Barcelona, Spain

The perfect time to visit Barcelona would be from late May to late September. This is also when the tourist scene in Barcelona is bustling, and there are many things to do. However, the weather in Barcelona is very consistent throughout the year. It doesn’t get too cold in the winter months, and the summer months are pretty pleasant.

Ready to visit Barcelona? Discover some more fun and fascinating facts about this beautiful city before you go.

The post Barcelona Weather | Year-Round Temperatures & Best Activities appeared first on Traveling in Spain.