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- Sagrada Familia
- Park Güell
- Barcelona Flamenco Show Tickets
- Camp Nou Tours
- Casa Batllo
- Casa Mila
- Portaventura World
- Gaudi Tours Barcelona
- Hola Barcelona Travel Card
- Wax Museum Barcelona
- Palau De La Musica Catalana
- Erotic Museum of Barcelona
- Montserrat Monastery
- Barcelona Zoo
- KBr Photography Center Mapfre Foundation
- Big Fun Museum
- Barcelona Aquarium
- Montjuic Cable Car
- Moco Museum Barcelona
Contents
A Guide to Visiting Barcelona in January | Attractions, Events & More
Is January a Good Time to Visit Barcelona?
January is the coldest month of the year in Barcelona, and as a result it sees very few tourists during this time. However, its location next to the sea plays in its favor, ensuring that the temperatures don't go too low due to the sea breeze. Moreover, the sun is almost always out in January, making it arguably the best time to walk and explore the city.
Why You Should Visit
- Crowds are usually less in January owing to the colder temperatures.
- For those who enjoy spending time outdoors in cool weather, this is one of the best months of the year in Barcelona.
- Hotel availability is great, and prices are low since there is a low influx of tourists in these months.
- Attractions and streets are empty due to lower crowds.
What to Look Out for
- The winter sun is surprisingly bright despite being low, but that can be easily kept at bay with a good pair of sunglasses.
- The weather might be slightly cold for those who don’t really enjoy winters.
- The beaches are really cold, and you will not be able to swim in the water.
- Days are shorter and the sun sets quite early, meaning you have to start earlier in the day.
Overview of Weather in Barcelona in January
January is a fairly cold month in Barcelona. Temperature is around the same as December and November, with about 6 hours of sunlight every day.
Average Temperature: High- 14℃ Low 7℃
Average Rainfall: 33mm, 5 Rainy days (Very unlikely to see snow)
Average Wind Speeds: 8.3 miles per hour.
Temperature of the Sea: 14℃ (58℉)
Best Time to Visit Barcelona12 Best Things to do in Barcelona in January
1. Visit Sagrada Familia
Gaudi's Attraction | Cathedral
The Sagrada Familia is a massive unfinished basilica in Barcelona, designed by the renowned Spanish architect Antoni Gaudi. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and sees a great deal of attention from across the world. The lower amount of visitors during January makes the tour all the more enjoyable.
January Timings: Daily from 9 AM to 6 PM. On January 1 and 6- 9 AM to 2 PM.
from €47
2. Visit Park Guell
Gaudi's Attraction | Park
A park system located in the heart of Barcelona, Park Guell was first opened to the public in 1926. It was designed by Antoni Gaudi, and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1984. This is the perfect spot to visit on a sunny day and walk around. Be sure to reserve for at least a couple of hours to get a good experience.
January Timings: Daily from 8:30 AM to 6:30 PM
from €10
3. Explore Casa Vicens
Gaudi's Attraction | House Museum
Casa Vicens is another Gaudi gem that you can visit. Currently repurposed as a museum, it is one of the best attractions to visit in January. It is spread across four floors and Gaudi used the traditional Catalan technique of building load-bearing walls and enclosures with vaults and wooden joists.
January Timings: Daily from 10 AM to 3 PM. Closed on January 1 and 6.
from €16
4. Visit Casa Mila
Gaudi's Attraction | House Museum
Another one of Gaudi’s modernist masterpieces is Casa Mila, also known as La Pedrera. It was the final residential building that he designed, and was finished in 1912. The rooftop views of Barcelona, as well as its incredibly unique architecture make it a must see in the city. Low crowds in January will let you explore its various rooms peacefully.
January Timings: January 1 to 3 - 9 AM to 8:30 PM, 9 PM to 11 PM. January 4 onwards - 9 AM to 6:30 PM, 7 PM to 9 PM.
from €24
5. Explore Casa Batllo
Gaudi's Attraction | Landmark Building
Casa Batllo is an iconic landmark in Barcelona that was also a masterpiece by Antoni Gaudi. The building was rebuilt by Gaudi in 1906. Owing to its non geometric shape which includes irregular oval windows, flowing stone work and colorful mosaic made of broken ceramic, the structure stands out in the midst of the otherwise geometric buildings surrounding it.
January Timings: Daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
from €35
6. Go Museum Hopping
Cultural Experience
Explore some of the best museums in Barcelona like Picasso Museum, FC Barcelona Museum, Fundació Joan Miró, Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya and many more. Each of these museums offer you a glimpse into Barcelona’s heritage and culture through art, history and entertainment.
Best Museums in Barcelona
7. Experience Montjuic Cable Car
Cable Car | Sightseeing
The Montjuic Cable Car offers some stunning views of Barcelona and allows you to see a different side of the city. The Montjuic funicular will take you up Montjuic hill, close to Montjuic castle, where you can catch panoramic views of Barcelona. The cool weather makes this the perfect month to enjoy views from the top.
Explore Montjuic Cable Car
8. Go on a Hike
Nature & Adventure
Hiking around Barcelona in January is an experience unlike any other. The cool weather and low cloud cover makes it the perfect time to go on one of the trails across Barcelona. There are several hiking trails across Barcelona that offer gorgeous views and allow you to spend some time with nature.
9. Enjoy a Food Tour
Cultural Experience
Famous for its flavorful and delicious food, going on a food tour around Barcelona is an absolute must. You can explore a range of bombas, patatas bravas, paelaas, and more across the city. Get to know the city through a local food tour by taking a paella cooking class or go on a walking tour with tapas and wine!
10. Catch a Traditional Flamenco Show
Cultural Experience
A visit to Barcelona is not complete without watching a flamenco show. The intricate dance moves along with the guitar and costumes makes it an unmissable and thoroughly enjoyable performance. Sip on some wine and enjoy some snacks while catching this traditional Spanish dance form!
Go for a Flamenco show
11. Stroll through Plaça d’Espanya
City Square
The biggest sqaure in Barcelona, Plaça d’Espanya, is splendid in January. Stroll through this gorgeous city square as you take in some of the best views of the city. Designed by Josep Amargos with a breathtaking fountain at its center, Plaça d’Espanya is an absolute delight to visit!
12. Visit La Rambla
City Street
Head over to La Rambla, one of Barcelona's most popular streets. Packed with old-school florists, gelaterias and candy stalls, this tree-lined central promenade has notable sights like a mosaic by Joan Miró and the Font de Canaletes, a fountain and popular meeting point.
Explore La Rambla0
Festivals in Barcelona in January
Three Kings Parade
Venue: Across Barcelona
Dates: January 5
Rather than Santa bringing gifts to children in Spain, it's the Three Wise Men. A massive parade is organized in the city around the streets, with numerous floats that carry the kings themselves, in addition to gifts and coal. The children who behaved well through the year receive presents, while the naughty ones supposedly only receive coal. These presents are then handed out to the children.
Els 3 Tombs and San Anthony Festival
Venue: Across Barcelona
Dates: January 17
The parade of Els 3 Tombs celebrates the festival of Saint Anthony Abad, who is the patron saint and protector of animals. You will see animals dressed up for the occasion on the streets as well!
Events in Barcelona in January
Epiphany (Three Kings' Day)
Epiphany, or Three Kings' Day, is a major celebration in Spain on January 6th. Instead of Santa Claus, children receive gifts from the Three Wise Men (Melchor, Gaspar, and Balthazar). On the eve of Epiphany, colorful parades fill the streets with floats, music, and candy thrown to the crowds. Families gather to enjoy a special cake called Rosca de Reyes, which often hides a small figurine representing the baby Jesus.
The Rebajas Sale
Dates: January 7 onwards
Numerous sales begin from January 7, which is perfect for shopaholics. From the big chain stores to small family businesses, you will see discounts and sales all across the city.
Mercat Del Encants
Dates: All through January
Mercat Del Encants is the largest flea market in the area and runs throughout January. This iconic market has something for everyone right from small trinkets to priceless antiques.
Know Before You Visit Barcelona in January
Travel Essentials
What to Wear
What to Pack
Transport
Stay
Time Zone: GMT +2
Currency: Euro EUR - €
Country code: +34
Emergency numbers: 112
What to Wear in Barcelona in January
- A warm jacket, along with a sweater and scarf is perfect for the cold weather.
- Some good walking shoes are a must, since you will be doing a fair bit of walking around town.
- If you generally feel cold, be sure to carry multiple layers to keep you warm.
What to Pack in Barcelona in January
- Be sure to bring along an umbrella, since there might be the odd shower.
- Sunglasses are also a must since the sun can be low and bright.
- Comfortable shoes to walk around and explore attractions.
- A type F plug (grounded) or a type C plug (non-grounded).
- A backpack to carry around during the day with enough compartments for all your belongings.
Getting Around Barcelona in January
- By Bus: There are over 200 lines that run late into the night, making bus transport convenient and cost effective. City bus map.
- By Metro: Barcelona also had an excellent metro railway network with 8 lines and 161 stations. This is the fastest way around the city. Metro map.
- By Cable Car: There are three cable car lines in Barcelona, where you can catch some stunning views of the city. Two of these lines reach Tibidabo, while the other goes to Montjuic.
- By Foot: Exploring the city by foot is a great option in January due to the cool weather. Most of the famous attractions are located close to each other.
Where to Stay in Barcelona in January
- Budget
Hotel Oasis, Violeta Boutique, Hostal Boqueria. - Mid Range
Mayerling Schumann Barcelona, Murmuri Residence Mercader - Luxury
Grand Hotel Central, Soho House, Mercer Hotel
Explore Barcelona Through the Year
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting Barcelona in January
Is January a good time to visit Barcelona?
Yes, Barcelona has cool and pleasant weather with very few tourists in January. Barcelona in January is a great time to visit with many exciting things to do.
What are the best things to do in Barcelona in January?
The best things to do in Barcelona in January include visiting top attractions such as Sagrada Familia, Camp Nou and Casa Batllo among many others. You can also explore Barcelona's theme parks, watch a flamenco show or go on a day trip while visiting Barcelona in January.
Is Barcelona cold in January?
The average temperature in Barcelona ranges between 16℃ and 10℃.
How hot is Barcelona in January?
Barcelona is typically pleasant and cool during January, and ranges between 16℃ and 10℃.
Can you swim in Barcelona in January?
The water temperature is quite cold in January, due to the cooler weather. And if you are okay swimming in cold water, then you can try swimming in the beach.
Is it sunny in Barcelona in January?
Yes, it is fairly sunny in Barcelona in January.
What clothes to wear in Barcelona in January?
Be sure to layer your clothes since it can get quite chilly in the evenings and night.
Is it rainy in Barcelona in January?
There is a high chance of rain for about 5-6 days in the month of January.
Is Barcelona expensive to visit?
Since January is the off-season, Barcelona is quite budget friendly. Airfare and hotel tickets are lower than the rest of the year if you book it in advance.
How safe is Barcelona?
Barcelona is safe for tourists. However, petty thievery such as pickpocketing is quite common.
What can I see in Barcelona in January?
You can visit the famous Gaudi attractions such as the Sagrada Familia, Casa Batllo, and other museums during January.
What are the major events in Barcelona in January?
The major event in January is the Three Kings Parade.
What is the average temperature in Barcelona in January?
The average temperature in Barcelona ranges between 16℃ and 10℃.
What are the best things to do with Kids in Barcelona in January?
The museums are a great place for kids to visit and learn about Barcelona’s history and culture.
What are the main festivals in Barcelona in January?
The major festivals are Els 3 Tombs and San Anthony Festival.