Take half a jar of Avante Garde engineering and add one tablespoon each of Roman and Gothic architecture. Pour a generous amount of cosmopolitan nightlife and sports fanaticism into the mixture. Now cook it under the Iberian sun. Garnish it with a dynamic culture and serve it hot at the azure Mediterranean shore. The dish is the city of Barcelona. And it’s every bit as great as it sounds. The city of counts is varicolored and prefers to dance to its own unique tune. Most of all, it is a splendid place to let loose, even in the month of January. Read on to know more about Barcelona in January - events, attractions, weather, places to eat and more!
Why Barcelona In January A Must-visit?
The capital of Catalonia, Barcelona is a city of immense political and administrative pertinence. However, the city never forgets to have fun and delight its visitors, no matter when you visit. January is the coldest month of the year in Barcelona. Therefore, most of the herd of tourists are absent. That is what makes this time of the year lucrative for people who aren’t afraid to abandon the beaten path.
What plays in Barcelona’s (and consequently, your) favor is its location at the seashore. The sea breeze prevents the city from freezing, and the sun is almost always out. Apart from being able to enjoy sunbathing to the fullest, this is possibly the best time to walk around the city. And if you need an additional incentive, we should tell you that the post-holiday season sales happen in Barcelona in January. Read on to find out how can you have the best January of your life in Barcelona.
Barcelona In January: Weather
Barcelona In January : Things To Do
1
Sagrada Familia
This exquisite specimen of architecture garners a lot of attention from around the world. One look at it and you will know the reason why. Despite being unfinished, this Antoni Gaudí masterpiece is certainly worth the 45 minutes you will spend at the tour. The decreased crowd at Sagrada Família in January gives you all the more reason to visit.
January Timings
Monday to Saturday - 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Sunday : 10:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
2
Casa Vicens
Another one of Gaudí’s gems, the Casa Vicens is a one of the first commissioned projects of the revered architect. The house has now been repurposed as a museum and a cultural space. Its museum project is dedicated to Gaudí’s work and definitely one to see in the relatively quiet month of January.
January Timings
Daily from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Closed on January 1st
Carrer de les Carolines, 20, 08012 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
3
Park Güell
This delightful park system in Barcelona stores within itself more than a 100 years of history. The origin story of this park is just as fascinating as the entire precinct itself. Pick a sunny January day to visit this area and reserve at least 2 hours for it to discover Park Güell's magnificence in its entirety.
January Timings
Daily from 9:30 AM to 7:30 PM
08024 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
4
Poble Espanyol
The richness of Catalan heritage is on display everywhere in Barcelona. Poble Espanyol is another place that follows suit. The open-air museum is dedicated to the wide array of architectural developments that Barcelona has gone through. Poble Espanyol will delight you with the numerous activities that are hosted there every month.
January Timings
Mondays - 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday - 10:00 AM to Midnight
Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
Getting There ›
5
Take a Barcelona Food Tour
The city of Barcelona is not complete without its culinary facet. Take a small walking tour of the city and engage with the local cuisine. Discover the history behind the famous Spanish and Catalan dishes. Learn a thing or two about local produce and ingredients that that are available during this time of the year.
153 Carrer Gran de Gràcia, Barcelona
Spain
Getting There ›
6
Amble around La Rambla & Barri Gòtic
Las Ramblas is a pedestrian strip that will bring you the authentic Barcelona to you. It is always populated with hawkers and peddlers selling almost anything under the sun. Adjacent to La Rambla is Barri Gòtic, a neighborhood which is a repository of Gothic architecture and numerous stories of early Barcelona. In January, the crowd grows thin, making it the perfect time to be here.
Mediterranean Seafront to Ronda de Sant Pere, 08002 Barcelona,Spain
Getting There ›
7
Casa Batlló
Possibly one of Antoni Gaudí’s works that has made Instagram its home, Casa Batlló immediately stands out from every building you have seen before. Its notable departure from geometrical symmetry has been appreciated in architectural quarters. Currently, Casa Batlló plays host to fun events every day of the year. There is no off-season at Casa Batlló.
January Timings
Daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
8
Casa Milà
Fondly known as La Pedrera, Casa Mila stays true to its nickname. Its rough-hewn design is considered to be exemplary in modern context. It is also the last residential building designed by Antoni Gaudí. Apart from holding art exhibitions, Casa Milà also receives famous musicians from around the world for riveting performances.
January Timings
Yet to be put up
Provença, 261-265, 08008 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
9
L'Aquarium Barcelona
L'Aquarium Barcelona is the largest aquarium in Europe. A day here will definitely be a memory you will carry around for a lifetime. You can take a cage dive with the sharks, watch the rays and penguins during their feeding times, and learn a lot about the underwater ecosystem. Discover the unique flora and fauna of January in this incredible experience.
January Timings
Jan 1 to Jan 7 - 10 AM to 8 PM
Rest of the month's weekdays from 10 AM - 7 PM
Rest of the month's weekends from 10 AM to 8 PM
Moll d'Espanya, del Port Vell, s/n, 08039 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
10
Telefèric de Montjuïc
See Barcelona in all its glory from the Montjuic Cable Car. As you embark on a journey from a lower point in the city, take in the mesmerising view of the sprawling Catalonian capital from the sky. You will be taken to a high point close to the Montjuïc castle. On your way down, your car will stop at the Mirador station. In January, you get to see the calmer avatar of this bustling cosmopolitan.
January Timings
1 and 6 January the service will run from 10 am to 2:30 pm
Rest of the days from 10 am to 6 pm
Avinguda Miramar, 30, 08038 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
Barcelona In January: Events To Look Out For
THREE KINGS PARADE
Jan 5th - 6th, 2023
You may have noticed that most attractions in Barcelona have altered visiting hours for January 5. That is because of the historic Three Kings Parade that begins in the evening of January 4. Royal floats, pages, and artists follow the three kings who are received by the Mayor at quayside. This parade itself is a reason to visit Barcelona.
CASTANYADA
Taking place in late January, this event is all about enjoying roasted chestnuts, sweet potatoes, and panellets (tasty little pastries). It's a perfect excuse to gather with friends, share good food, and savor the flavors of autumn. So, head to this cookout!
FESTA DELS TRES TOMBS
17th Jan 2024
Horses, carriages, and a lively procession winding through the streets of Barcelona. That's the Festa dels Tres Tombs for you! Happening in early January, this celebration honors Saint Anthony, the patron saint of animals. Expect a charming spectacle as locals parade through the city with their pets, blessing them along the way.
CASA BATLLO WINTER NIGHTS
6:30 - 8:45 PM Daily
Step into the iconic Gaudí masterpiece after dark, adorned with enchanting lights and a cozy atmosphere.
Barcelona In January: 5-day Itinerary
Check out our handmade itinerary guide to spend 5 days in Barcelona to plan your trip efficiently.
If you are short on time, you can also check out our guide about exploring Barcelona in 1 day or 3 days.
Barcelona Essentials
Barcelona Weather In January
January is the coldest month in Barcelona. However, the geographical location right by the Mediterranean Sea brings quite a few pleasant days in the month. The average high is of 14°C/57°F and the average low is of 5°C/41°F. Rainy days are few and far apart, while snow is also probable.
Where To Stay Tn Barcelona During January
Barcelona is a fairly popular tourist destination, which is why it won’t be difficult for you to find an accommodation in the city. If you are planning to laze about on your vacation, you may want to look for a mid-range or luxury hotel. A budget hotel would be a perfect fit for a whirlwind tour. Here are someof the best hotels to choose from.
- Luxury – Hotel The Serras, Hotel DO, Mandarin Oriental
- Mid-Range – Casa Camper Hotel Barcelona, Olivia Balmes Hotel, Yurbban Trafalgar Hotel
- Budget – Alimara Barcelona Hotel, Four Points by Sheraton Barcelona Diagonal, U232 Hotel
What To Pack When Visiting Barcelona In January
Since rain and snow is not uncommon, do not forget to pack an umbrella, a waterproof coat, a pair of boots, scarves, and warm clothes. It is generally sunny in Barcelona, so plenty of sun block and shades are indispensable. Also, keep a reusable water bottle with filter handy. You can thank us later!
Getting Around Barcelona In January
Barcelona has an elaborate transport network spread throughout the city. The metro network covers most of the tourist attractions of the city. A fleet of around 1000 buses plies on the streets of the city to provide an alternative. Opt for a Barcelona Card that can be used to avail unlimited transport for the duration of your trip. A Barcelona Card also comes with lucrative deals and discounts at various attractions and restaurants throughout the city. Alternatively, you may opt for a Barcelona Hola Pass, which can only be used for transport.
Barcelona In January - Must Try Delicasies
This is a typical Catalonian salad that centers around the salt cod fish. The fish is shredded and mixed with fragrant olive oil, ripe tomatoes, and onions. The cod fish is dried or soaked beforehand to achieve the the required texture.
Think paella, but with noodles. Yes, that is the Catalan version of this piquant Spanish classic we would recommend you when you are in Barcelona. The dish is almost identical to paella in terms of ingredients and cooking techniques, only the texture is softer.
During the Spanish Civil War, hand grenades were used quite effectively by the anarchists. Later, a dish by the same name came up in the neighborhood of Barceloneta. La Bomba is basically a ball of meat and mashed potatoes, breaded, deep-fried and then topped off with spicy tomato sauce and aioli.
This tapa speciality is for the vegetarians. A number of luscious vegetables, like pepper, aubergine, tomatoes, onions, are picked and charred in a wood fire. Then, the skin is peeled off and the tender flesh is served with olive oil and bread.
As the name suggests, this is a classic Catalan dessert. This is a fruity cousin of the French dessert, crème brûlée. The departure here is the addition of orange zest. Since it is a signature dish in the region, you can find it at almost every eatery. The best, however, are available at Cerveseria Ciutat Comtal and Escribà.
Tips To Visit Barcelona In January
- Make sure you book online tickets for Sagrada Familia. Even though the crowd is less in January, you may still end up queueing for over an hour on a sunny day.
- Access the area outside Park Güell’s monumental core free of charge.
- Plan a late night outing at Poble Espanyol to acquire an unparalleled Barcelona experience.
- Keep an eye out for your valuables on your trip to Barcelona.
- Try the allium known as Calçot that is available during the winter and are a feature of Catalan cuisine.
FAQs
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What is the temperature in Barcelona in January?
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Are any famous attractions closed in Barcelona in January?
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Is January a good time to visit Barcelona?
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