BARCELONA – If you are in Barcelona in December or planning to visit the city, consider visiting one of the many Christmas markets organised there. The ‘Mercats de Nadal’ offer a magical mix of culture, food and festivity.
Each Christmas market in Barcelona has its own unique atmosphere and specialties. Moreover, they offer more than just shopping stalls. They are a meeting place where local artists and craftsmen exhibit their work. Visitors can also enjoy live music, workshops and various activities for children. It is a place where both locals and tourists come together to celebrate the holidays or get in the mood for them.
Attention to the local cuisine
No visit to a Spanish Christmas market is complete without sampling the local delicacies. From traditional Catalan dishes to sweet treats such as “turrones” (nougat) and “churros”, there is something for everyone. Hot drinks such as hot chocolate, wine and cava should also not be missed.
The best Christmas markets in Barcelona
The Fira de Santa Llúcía
From November 24 to December 23, 2023, from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm, the 237th Fira de Santa Llúcía will take place on Avinguda de la Catedral in Barcelona. This iconic market fills the neighbourhood every year with lots of light and a festive atmosphere. With stalls selling everything from nativity scenes to fresh Christmas greenery, the Santa Llúcía Fair offers everything to bring the Christmas spirit to your home.
Also read: These are the ten most Instagrammable cities in Spain during Christmas
Fira de Nadal de la Sagrada Familia
From November 25 to December 23, 2023, from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm on weekdays and from 10.00 am to 10.00 pm on weekends and public holidays, the Fira de Nadal is located in Plaça de la Sagrada Família. Located beneath one of the world’s most amazing architectural creations, this Christmas market offers hundreds of stalls. There are Christmas trees sold, traditional festive dishes, a churrería, and handmade gifts. And all with Christmas music as an acoustic backdrop.
Palo Alto Christmas Market
The Palo Alto Market returns on December 2 and 3, 2023, from 12 noon to 5.00 pm and then from 5.30 pm to 10.00 pm. This offers street food, art and music, alongside stalls selling everything from handmade crafts and vintage furniture to retro clothing and high-end fashion. This market in the Poblenou district offers magical fun for young and old.
Fira de Nadal de Port Vell
The Fira de Nadal de Port Vell will take place from December 5, 2023 to January 7, 2024. It´s opening hours vary. Now in its fourth year, it is located at the Columbus Monument in the Plaça del Portal de la Pau. In addition to stalls selling decorations and Christmas dishes, there is the tallest Christmas tree in the city here, with an impressive height of 31 metres.
Design Market Barcelona
The Design Market Barcelona will take place from December 15 to 17, 2023, with varying opening hours, at MUHBA Oliva Artés. With more than 100 exhibitors ranging from the most avant-garde designers, artists and craftsmen, you’ll find fashion and accessories, contemporary jewellery, publications, homewares, furniture, artwork and food. Great for those looking for original Christmas gifts.
Fira de Sant Tomàs i Reis a la Gran Via
This Christmas market will be held from December 15, 2023 to January 6, 2024. Stalls are open from 10.00 am to 9.00 pm on most days and from 10.00 am to 10.00 pm on Saturdays and on the eve of public holidays. You’ll find the Fira de Sant Tomà i Reis spread out for several blocks of Gran Via. This market is one of the few places in Barcelona where you can find a very wide selection of toys. Since the first edition in 1877, toys have been the market’s specialty, giving last-minute shoppers the chance to find something for everyone on their list.
Also read: The ten best Christmas markets in Spain
