January offers a small window of respite in the face of mass tourism in Barcelona.
It's the ideal month for those who love culture but hate crowds.
At this time of year, you'll enjoy mild weather and plenty to do in town.
Let's find out together what you can do on site.
Barcelona in January: article summary
What's the weather like in Barcelona in January?
The temperature in Barcelona in January is averages 16°C during the day, dropping to 10°C at night. It's unlikely to rain during your stay, as the month averages only 5 days of rain. It's also highly unlikely that you'll see snow, although frost can form in the early hours of the morning.
Enjoy the New Year
Even if it's not the perfect time for sunbathing in Barcelona, locals love to start the New Year by jumping into the Mediterranean at midday on the first day of the year. Head to the beach in San Sebastian to join hundreds of locals as they plunge into the sea and emerge from the cold waters at full speed.
A tradition rooted in the city's culture, it's sure to make you forget your wild night out the night before. In fact, to find out where to party on New Year's Eve, I invite you to read the article I wrote on this subject.
Barcelona in January: visit Casa Batlló
Casa Batlló is one of Gaudí's masterpieces. Nicknamed "The House of Bones" by locals due to its skeletal appearance, the house is in fact inspired by the legend of Saint-George and the dragon.
Inside, you'll find plenty of colors and curved lines, as well as "trencadís" pieces designed by Gaudi itself. The tour includes an augmented reality guide that brings the building to life. For more information on Casa Batllo, please visit the article I wrote here.
Enjoy Gaudi's other works
The Casa Batllo is Gaudi's most colorful creation, but the city is overflowing with the master architect's legacy. The Church of the Sagrada Familia is not to be missed. Likewise, few cultured travellers leave Barcelona without visiting the parc Guellthe impressive gardens he laid out above the Gracia district.
Finally, if you'd like to discover all the architect's periods, I'd also recommend a visit to the Casa Vicensat Palau Guell and the famous Pedrera.
Take time to greet the Three Kings
Called the Cavalcada de Reis in local parlance, this parade takes place every year on the eve of Epiphany. The Three Wise Men ride the waves of the Mediterranean, and their shining ship is greeted on shore by the town's mayor, who gives them the keys to the city for the evening. A distribution of gifts is then organized for all the town's children.
The ship sails into Port Vell at around 4 p.m. and the parade leaves from the Parc de la Ciutadella at dusk. This is usually filled with colorful floats from which the Three Wise Men throw sweets to the throngs of excited children. For Catalans, it's the day where people traditionally exchange gifts.
Take a ride on the tourist bus
You can also take a tourist bus to see most of Barcelona's places of interest. Three different itineraries are available. You can see acompletely different side of the city.
You get an audio guide to learn all about the city's history and culture as you walk around. It's a great option if you're tired after walking for long hours.
Discover Catalan art at MNAC
Visit Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya is housed in a former palace at the foot of the hill of Montjuïc. Not only is the building spectacular, it also features some of the city's best art exhibitions.
Art on display ranges from Romanesque church paintings to modern art, all focusing on the art and artists of Catalonia. A rooftop observation point recently opened its doors, providing an excellent vantage point from which to admire the city.
Warm up with chocolate and churros
There's no better time to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate with a portion of sweet churros. It's a perfect snack to be taken in January on a cold day.
One of the best places to enjoy it is La Granja, which has been open since 1872. You can also find a good selection of cafés serving sweets on the Petritxol side of the street. Las Ramblas.
Visiting Barcelona in January is a good option if you want to see the city without being disturbed by the hordes of tourists. You'll be able to see the place from a whole new angle and take advantage of the attractions on offer in the Catalan capital.
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