8 Best Barcelona Christmas Markets You Have to See (2023)
Are you dreaming of sipping mulled wine, sampling traditional Catalan treats, or picking out the perfect artisan-crafted gifts while surrounded by twinkling holiday lights? Well, you’re in the right place!
Get ready to feel the magical vibes of Barcelona’s captivating Christmas markets, where your holiday dreams can come true. These markets are the stuff of fairy tales – or, well, holiday Hallmark movies!
From the oldest markets, rich in tradition and local culture, to the newer ones with their own unique twist on Christmas, there’s a merry market just for you.
Now, having lived in Spain and spent heaps of time in beautiful Barcelona, I’ve soaked up the festive cheer at these markets myself. I can confidently say that exploring them was really like something out of a movie.
Sure, a lot of people aim to come to Barcelona in summer. But, honestly, for me, the heat can get a bit much. Instead, I think that there’s an argument to be made that Christmas is the best time to come to Barcelona – and the markets are definitely one major reason for this.
So in this article, I’ll take you on a virtual tour of these remarkable markets, sharing all the insider details you need – locations, opening hours, specialties, and more. So grab your favorite warm beverage, cozy up, and join me as we delve into the best Christmas markets Barcelona has to offer.
Best Barcelona Christmas markets
1. La Fira de Santa Llucia
As soon as you see the quaint stalls decorated with twinkling fairy lights and smell the fragrant pine from the Christmas trees, you’ll know you’ve landed at La Fira de Santa Llucia, Barcelona’s oldest Christmas market. With a legacy dating back to the 18th Century, this market is a festive must-visit during your Barcelona adventure.
Located comfortably in the plaza in front of the stunning Barcelona Cathedral, this market comes alive daily from late November until the 23rd of December, open from 10:00 to 21:00. You’ll be humming “Feliz Navidad” in no time as you browse the charming stalls filled with traditional Christmas decorations.
From authentic Catalan nativity figures and trees to the quirky caganers and caga tios, there’s a bauble for every kind of Christmas enthusiast here!
Fancy some local artisan crafts? The market also brims with stalls selling handcrafted items like jewelry, ornaments, and other unique gifts. Trust me, you’ll be ticking off your gift list faster than the time needed to check it twice!
Now, here’s a hot tip: keep an eye out for special dates like the Diada de les tradicions nadalencs festival, with its extra fun activities for the little ones, and ‘Dia de Santa Llúcia’ – Saint Lucy’s Day.
And if you’re into music, don’t miss the Christmas concert. This isn’t just a market, it’s a whole festive experience, right under the city’s grand Gothic Cathedral.
2. Christmas Fair Poble Espanyol
Poble Espanyol is the Spanish Village on Montjuic hill that hosts their festive extravaganza – the Christmas Fair! Not just your average market, this one is like Santa’s village come to life.
Imagine roller discos with Christmas tunes spinning, live music filling the air, and a Christmas food fair with delicious seasonal treats that will make even the Grinch’s heart grow three sizes.
Have little ones tagging along? Watch their eyes light up at Santa’s Grotto and when they get to meet The Three Kings, who are key figures during Christmas in Barcelona (much more so than Santa!).
Set amidst the charming Spanish Village, this market combines entertainment and shopping in one magical location. It’s not just about the gifts here – it’s about the memories you’ll make.
3. Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família
The magical Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família is a Christmas market as unique as its setting. Situated right beside the surreal beauty of the Sagrada Familia basilica, this market opens its heart to visitors from late November until the 23rd of December, with timings from 10:00 to 21:00 on weekdays and an extra hour till 22:00 on weekends, public holidays and the eve of public holidays.
While smaller than Fira de Santa Llucia, this market has a cozy, local vibe that’ll instantly warm your heart. Along with Christmas decorations, you’ll find stands selling traditional winter snacks like roast chestnuts, baked sweet potatoes, churros, and hot chocolate.
And come on, can you imagine anything better than munching on a warm churro with the stunning Sagrada Familia as your backdrop? And while you might be disappointed if you’re wondering if it snows in Barcelona, things can still get a bit chilly – meaning that churro-y goodness will warm you up well!
For the little ones, make sure to visit on one of the two Saturdays when Santa Claus makes a special appearance to collect letters, hand out balloons, and share cookies.
With 120 stalls to explore, you’re sure to leave with more than just a full shopping bag – you’ll leave with the spirit of Barcelona’s Christmas season in your heart.
4. Fira de Nadal del Port Vell
Our next stop on this festive adventure brings us to the waterside wonderland of Fira de Nadal del Port Vell, Barcelona’s newest Christmas market. Dive into the holiday spirit from the first weekend in December until the 5th of January, right in the heart of La Plaça del Portal de la Pau, near the striking Columbus Monument.
With daily opening times that generally continue from 11.00 to 22:30, this market brings the Christmas cheer to life like no other. Food stalls serve up delicious yuletide treats that will have you dreaming of sugarplums in no time.
But wait, there’s more! Take a ride on the big wheel, marvel at the 31m high LED Christmas tree that gives the North Star a run for its money, enjoy the mesmerizing floating nativity scene, and lose yourself in the charming craft workshops and activities designed for children and teens.
And don’t forget to take a nostalgic ride on the traditional carousel! Remember, this isn’t just a market – it’s an explosion of festive fun, right on the harbor front!
5. Fira de Reis
Hang onto your Santa hats, because we’re heading to Fira de Reis next. This enchanting market kicks off on December 17th and continues all the way until Kings Day (dia dels Reis Mags in Catalan) on January 6th, when Spanish tradition dictates the exchange of presents.
Situated on Gran Via between Plaça de la Universitat and Carrer Comte Borell, the market keeps its doors open from 11:00 to 14:00 and then again from 17:00 to 21:00. Here, you’ll find an amazing selection of children’s toys and other delightful gifts, ideal for spreading the holiday cheer.
And don’t forget to treat yourself to a steaming cup of hot chocolate and some fresh churros from the churrerias scattered around the market. Shopping and snacking – isn’t that what holidays are all about?
6. Plaça de Catalunya Christmas Fair
From 17 to 30 December, the vibrant squares of Plaça de Catalunya and Plaça de la Universitat transform into a bustling hub of holiday merriment. Operating from 11 am to 8.30 pm, this is the spot for dance, music, digital arts, and stunning installations.
Step into a whirlwind of color and creativity at this lively fair, where the spirit of Christmas meets the vibrant culture of Barcelona. With performances and installations set throughout the morning, afternoon, and evening, there’s always a reason to come back for more.
7. Food Artisans Market
We’re all foodies at heart, especially during the festive season, aren’t we? So, let’s pop over to the Fira del Col·lectiu d’Artesans de l’Alimentació, or simply, the Food Artisans Market, tucked away in the heart of Plaça Santa Maria del Pi, by the stunning church of the same name, in the Gothic District.
Making appearances several times a month throughout the year, this market truly comes alive during the Christmas season, setting out its tantalizing artisanal treats almost every other day.
From authentic Catalan honey, exquisite chocolates, tantalizing cheeses, rich wines, to decadent cakes, this market has you covered for non-kitsch stocking fillers.
And with around twenty stalls and a genuinely warm atmosphere, you’re bound to enjoy a slice of Catalan culinary culture right in the heart of Barcelona.
8 Mercat Gòtic (Fira de Brocanters) Christmas Market
Are you a fan of all things vintage? Then you can’t miss out on the Mercat Gòtic (Fira de Brocanters) Christmas Market, a quaint little gem just off Plaça de Catalunya.
While it’s an all-year Thursday treat, running from 10:00 to 20:00, the market takes a festive turn during the Christmas season, although it does have to make way for the Fira de Santa Llúcia.
Don’t be fooled by its size. Though small, with approximately twenty sellers, this market is crammed with antiques, from jewelry, postcards, ornaments, stamps, to the most intriguing ‘curiosities’.
Whether you’re a serious antique collector or a casual browser, there’s a treasure trove waiting for you here. But remember, with Barcelona’s busiest shopping streets around, you’ll need a bit of determination during the holiday rush!
FAQs
Is there a Christmas market in Barcelona?
Absolutely, there is! From the long-standing tradition of La Fira de Santa Llúcia, the oldest and most revered Christmas market in Barcelona, to the contemporary allure of the Fira de Nadal del Port Vell, each market gives you a glimpse into the vibrant Catalan culture.
Barcelona hosts a number of delightful Christmas markets that set the city abuzz with festive cheer, with each market being uniquely special, offering a different flavor of the holiday season.
In addition to the larger ones just mentioned, you’ll also find smaller, more niche markets like the Food Artisans Market and Mercat Gòtic (Fira de Brocanters) Christmas Market.
So whether you’re hunting for the perfect Christmas tree, mouth-watering Catalan treats, or simply looking for the joy of the season, Barcelona’s Christmas markets have got you covered!
What are the dates of the Barcelona Christmas market?
Barcelona’s Christmas markets typically start around late November and continue until late December or early January. For instance, La Fira de Santa Llúcia and Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família usually run from late November to the 23rd of December.
On the other hand, the Fira de Nadal del Port Vell kicks off in early December and continues till the 5th of January. Then you have the Fira de Reis that starts in mid-December and runs all the way until Kings Day on the 6th of January.
Lastly, Plaça de Catalunya Christmas Fair takes place for two weeks from 17th to 30th December. So, depending on your travel dates, you have a great chance to experience the joy of at least one of these festive markets!
What is the biggest Christmas market in Barcelona?
The biggest Christmas market in Barcelona is undoubtedly La Fira de Santa Llúcia. Dating back to the 18th century, this market sprawls in the Gothic Quarter, right in front of the Barcelona Cathedral.
With around 300 stalls selling everything from traditional Christmas decorations, trees, and mistletoe to handcrafted items like jewelry and other gifts, it is indeed a Christmas shopper’s paradise.
And it’s not just about shopping! Special activities like the ‘Tió gegant’ activities for children, Saint Lucy’s day celebration, and extra Christmas activities add an extra touch of magic to your visit.
What time does the Christmas market close in Barcelona?
In Barcelona, most Christmas markets are open daily and typically close around 21:00 or 22:00. For instance, La Fira de Santa Llúcia and Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Família usually stay open from 10:00 to 21:00.
The Fira de Nadal del Port Vell has more flexible hours, generally opening around 11:00 and closing at 22:30. It’s worth noting, however, that timings may vary depending on the day of the week and proximity to the holidays, so it’s always a good idea to check specific market times closer to your visit.
Remember, these markets are a visual treat after dark when the Christmas lights create a truly enchanting atmosphere. So be sure not to miss out on the evening magic!
