When will the Christmas markets be arranged in Barcelona this year? Where are the biggest and most famous Christmas markets located? What should you buy if you decide to visit the Christmas markets in Barcelona?
People come to big cities all across Europe to discover the amazing Christmas markets every single year. Many people have heard about the giant Christmas markets in cities such as Lübeck, Prague, Vienna, and Budapest, but what about Barcelona? Can you expect amazing Christmas markets in Barcelona as well, or is this more like a minor version of the giant Christmas markets we often meet and see in other big cities?
The Christmas market tradition in Barcelona
Barcelona has a long tradition when it comes to Christmas markets. The city still isn’t especially well known for its Christmas markets, but it does have some very nice markets worth visiting.
Christmas market by the Barcelona Cathedral (La Fira de Santa Llucia)
The most famous Christmas market in Barcelona is located in front of the Barcelona Cathedral, and it is called La Fira de Santa Llucia. This is the oldest market and it dates back to the end of the 18th century or the start of the 19th century.
At the market, you can buy all sorts of souvenirs, gifts, and also a lot of religious pictures and nativity scenes (like Jesus in the manger), and similar objects. It normally opens at the end of November and remains open until December 23rd.
There are more than 300 stalls at the festival and as you visit the market you can buy Christmas trees and decorations, food and snacks of different sorts, and handmade toys, jewelry, puppets, and more.
Christmas market at Gran Via (Fira de Reis)
Gran Via is a long avenue, but in the area around Placa de la Universitat, you can find the market named The Fira de Reis. Here you can buy toys for kids, and this is, first of all, a children’s fair (or a fair for adults who buy presents for their kids). The fair was first introduced in 1877, and has since then grown in popularity. You can now buy much more than just sweets and toys at the market, but you will still see that the focus is mainly on toys and sweets.
There are approximately 200 stalls at this fair, and besides toys and sweets, you can also buy food, clothes, and other handmade objects at the festival.
The most important thing to eat at the Christmas market (Fira de Reis) is Churrerias, a sweet dough with a sweet taste that smells so good making them impossible to resist.
Christmas Market by Sagrada Familia
Honestly, I probably wouldn’t travel to Barcelona to see and experience the Christmas market by Sagrada Familia. But then again, I would definitely visit Sagrada Familia during my trip to Barcelona. As a result, I would visit the Christmas market by Sagrada Familia as well. This market has many similarities with Fira de Reis and La Fira de Santa Llucia, only that it isn’t as big as the big brothers.
At this Christmas market, you can buy the traditional stuff, including food, toys, decorations, and Christmas trees. The Christmas market is normally open from around 10:00 until 20:00. The easiest way to get to the market is by using metro line L2 or L5 and traveling to the Sagrada Familia metro stop.
Nadal al Port
This is one of the newest, but most amazing Christmas market areas in Barcelona. Here you can enjoy a big ice skating rink, a giant Ferris Wheel, and beautiful lights and lots of things you can buy and enjoy. It is located by the sea, so you can also feel the fresh salty air and listen to the sounds of the sea, while looking at beautiful Christmas presents and feel the smells and atmosphere of Christmas with your other senses.
In addition to the cool activities, you will also find lots of stands where you can buy Christmas presents. There are several concerts and events taking place in the air before Christmas, and the big Christmas tree is also one of the most popular attractions at this Christmas market in Barcelona.
You can find more information about this Christmas market at: https://www.nadalalportvell.com/.
Christmas market dates in Barcelona in 2024
Dates for Fira de Reis
2024: December 17, 2024 – January 6, 2025
- 2024: December 17, 2024 – January 6, 2025
- 2023: December 16, 2023 – January 6, 2024
Dates for La Fira de Santa Llucia
2024: November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024
- 2024: November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024
- 2023: November 25, 2023 – December 23, 2023
Dates for the Sagrada Familia Christmas market
2024: November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024
- 2024: November 28, 2024 – December 23, 2024
- 2023: November 25, 2023 – December 23, 2023
Dates for the Nadal al Port Christmas market
2024: November 29, 2024 – January 6, 2025
- 2024: November 29 2024 – January 6, 2025.
- 2023: November 28, 2025 – January 6, 2025.
Want to live close to the Christmas markets?
Now that you know when you should come to Barcelona to visit the Christmas markets, the next important question is where to stay. You can save a lot of time by living in a central hotel not far from Barcelona Cathedral, La Rambla, Gran Via, and other central locations. Look at the map below and if you choose a hotel from within this radius, you are guaranteed a good location, and hopefully also a great hotel or apartment at a low price.
Booking.comWhat should I buy at the Christmas markets in Barcelona?
Many people love to visit Barcelona before Christmas, especially to take a closer look at the Christmas markets. But, are there any special gifts of souvenirs you should look for and buy as you find the popular Christmas markets? Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your shopping experience at the Christmas markets in Barcelona.
1. Nativity Figures (Pessebres)
One of the most traditional items you’ll find at Barcelona’s Christmas markets is nativity figures. These small, detailed figures represent characters from the nativity scene, such as baby Jesus, Mary, Joseph, and the Three Wise Men. What makes Barcelona’s nativity figures special is their variety—many stalls offer unique, handcrafted pieces, allowing you to create a personal and meaningful display for your home.
2. Caga Tió – A Catalan Christmas Tradition
At the heart of Catalan Christmas traditions is Caga Tió, a wooden log with a painted happy face and a traditional red hat. In Catalonia, children “feed” Caga Tió in the days leading up to Christmas, and on Christmas Eve, they hit the log with sticks while singing songs, and it “poops” out small presents or sweets. This fun and quirky tradition is a beloved part of the season, and you’ll find plenty of stalls selling these smiling logs in different sizes.
3. Christmas Trees and Decorations
Whether you’re looking for a full Christmas tree or smaller decorative touches, the markets are full of Christmas trees and ornaments. From handmade baubles to festive garlands, there’s a wide selection of decorations to bring a cozy holiday spirit to your home. You can find both traditional and modern designs, perfect for any style.
4. Handmade Crafts
The Christmas markets in Barcelona are not just about holiday decorations—they’re also a great place to pick up handmade crafts. Artisans from all over the region come to sell their unique creations, including jewelry, pottery, wooden toys, and leather goods. These items make excellent gifts for friends and family or a special treat for yourself.
5. Wreaths and Garlands
Adding a natural, festive touch to your home is easy with the many wreaths and garlands available at the markets. You’ll find beautiful arrangements made from pine, holly, and other seasonal greenery. Many vendors offer custom-made wreaths, so you can create the perfect design to match your holiday décor.
6. Turrón and Other Sweet Treats
No Christmas market visit is complete without sampling some traditional Catalan sweets. Turrón, a nougat made from almonds, honey, and sugar, is a holiday favorite. You’ll find many varieties, from soft to crunchy, flavored with chocolate or fruits. It’s the perfect treat to take home or gift to loved ones.
7. Musical Instruments
For something a little different, check out the small musical instruments sold at the markets. You’ll find traditional Catalan instruments like tambourines, zambombas (a friction drum), and small flutes, often used in Christmas celebrations and caroling. They make fun souvenirs or gifts for music lovers.
Now that you have a few ideas concerning what you should buy and look for at the Christmas markets in Barcelona, we hope you are ready to travel! If you have questions or comments regarding the Christmas markets in Barcelona, write a comment below.
Would you like to read more about other events, happenings, and festivals in Barcelona? You can find this and other information in our Barcelona calendar.
