(English) 7 Things to Do in Barcelona in Winter
It’s never a bad time to visit Barcelona, whatever time of year you travel. The pleasant year‑round temperatures and endless tourist attractions designed to suit all tastes and personalities are what make Barcelona the ideal destination 365 days of the year. But, in the winter months, the city’s streets are noticeably less crowded, and the price of hotel deals and flights are much more affordable. Without all the hustle and bustle of the busy summer season, Barcelona could arguably be an even more attractive destination in the winter months, so here are 7 of our top ideas for winter in Barcelona:
Take a stroll on the beach
More than 4.2 kilometres of unspoiled coastline are a huge part of the beauty and draw of the city and lend it an unmistakable Mediterranean flair. Enjoying a relaxing stroll on any of the city’s nine beachesis an especially joyous experience in the autumn and winter months. Temperatures don’t usually drop below 10 degrees at any time of year, and the sun is never away for too long, so why not enjoy a walk on the soft sands without the crowds and sun bed queues of summer.
Taste everything Catalonia has to offer
If any one dish perfectly sums up the beauty of Catalan cuisine, it’s the calçot. This variety of green onion is a staple ingredient in winter Catalan cuisine and served in so many of the city’s great restaurants. Eating calçots is a local tradition and a firm part of the Catalan culture, all part of gathering together with friends and family whilst enjoying this delicacy as part of a hearty winter feast.
Carnival
Carnival in Barcelona is known for getting the entire city involved and entertained. Popular parades flood the city’s many neighbourhoods, all bringing out Barcelona’s funniest and most extravagant side starting on Thursday, 4 February, with a rapturous reception given to Mr Carnival at Arribo (Ribera Quarter), Molinet dancing on the Friday at Born cultural centre, all the way up to the traditional burying of the sardines the following Wednesday. Thousands of exuberant costumes, masks and wild party spirits flood the city for a whole seven days of fun.
Mobile World Congress
The Fira de Barcelona exhibition centre is set to host the Mobile World Congress between 22nd and 26th February again this year. Considered the biggest event in the city’s annual calendar, the conference is a significant economic driver in the city. Attending Mobile World Congress is a fantastic opportunity to get up close and personal with the world’s latest innovations and trends in all things mobile telecommunications.
When visiting the conference, it’s vital to book a hotel room in advance, as during Mobile World Congress, hotel occupancy rates across Barcelona never fail to reach full capacity.
Valentine’s Day
Barcelona has all the key ingredients for a fantastic romantic escape as a couple. But the city unveils perhaps its most romantic side of all on one very special date indeed – 14th February. On Valentine’s Day, in particular, Barcelona offers endless possibilities for newly married couples to enjoy an unforgettable honeymoon.
Enjoy some chocolate con churros
Barcelona is home to some of the oldest and most charming churrerías, or chocolatiers, to you and me. Make sure you grab a cup of hot chocolate and enjoy dipping some wonderfully crispy churros into the delicious mixture – the perfect start (or end!) to the perfect day of sightseeing in Barcelona. Particularly famous are Granja Dulcinea, Sant Andreu and Granja Viader, all well‑worth a visit.
Sant Medir Festival
In the closing days of winter, the Gracia Quarter gets all dressed up in its best party gear to host the Fiesta de Sant Medir and really put on a show. Organised for 3rd March this year, the neighbourhood’s residents take part in a sort of pilgrimage from Gracia and Sant Gervasi to their shrine to Saint Medir, where they honour their famous patron saint. It’s always an incredibly busy and wonderful occasion to experience, where sweets and treats are thrown into the crowds from floats, carts and horseback to add to the excitement of the celebrations. Sant Medir Festival is a unique opportunity to experience one of the most deeply-rooted traditions of Barcelona’s Gracia Quarter.
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