Winter — A Perfect Time to Visit Barcelona

Sagrada Familia Temple

In winter, it’s much easier to buy tickets for Basilica de la Sagrada Familia. With fewer tourists, you’ll have the chance to admire this Gaudi masterpiece without the rush and queues. You’ll also have the opportunity to take stunning photos with the basilica in the background. As a photographer in Barcelona, I can help you capture these memorable moments.

Most of the Barcelona visitors don´t know that there are Christmas workshops in la Sagrada Familia happening during month before Christmas, that gives you a chance to do something fun with the kids form 6 to 12 years old. The participation price is much cheaper than normal entrance (something around 8-10€ per person). During the handicraft workshop the kids can create a paper cut-out ornament recreating Christmas scenes and motifs, like the ones traditionally used to decorate churches in Catalonia in the past! After the workshop you get to visit the temple itself, so this is a pretty good deal.

Park Güell

During the summer season, it’s almost impossible to get tickets here without booking 2-3 days in advance. However, in winter, you can purchase tickets even at the last minute through the official website. The park is quieter and more peaceful, making it perfect for leisurely walks and photoshoots. If you’re looking for a family photographer in Barcelona, wintertime at Park Güell is ideal for unforgettable photos.

Gothic Quarter

The Gothic Quarter feels magical in winter. The streets are quieter, and the whole area has a peaceful, cozy vibe. It’s the perfect time to explore the narrow alleys and admire the old buildings, like the Barcelona Cathedral or the pretty square at Plaça del Rei. With fewer tourists around, you can really take in the charm of this historic neighborhood.

Make sure to stop by the local restaurants and cafes to warm up. Try some hot chocolate with churros or a traditional Catalan meal. During the winter months, you might also find Christmas markets at Plaça de la Catedral or catch street performers adding to the festive mood. There are also small artisan shops and galleries where you can find unique gifts or souvenirs. The Gothic Quarter in winter is lively, beautiful, and full of little surprises!

Montjuïc Hill

Take the cable car from Barceloneta up to Montjuïc Hill, one of the best spots to enjoy amazing views of Barcelona. Once you’re there, take a walk and explore the area. You can visit Montjuïc Castle, a historic fortress with panoramic views, or head to the MNAC (National Art Museum of Catalonia). The museum is a must-visit, and here’s a bonus tip: you can enter for free on Saturdays after 3 PM and on the first Sunday of each month — so plan ahead! It’s a great way to see incredible art without spending a dime.

Another spot to check out on Montjuïc in winter is Poble Espanyol. This open-air museum is like a small village where you can see replicas of buildings from all over Spain. It’s a fun place to explore, with charming streets, shops selling handmade crafts, and plenty of spots to grab something to eat or drink. Poble Espanyol also hosts workshops, live performances, and cultural events, so there’s always something interesting going on.

If you love taking photos or videos, Montjuïc is perfect. From the castle and museum to the cable car ride and Poble Espanyol, you’ll find plenty of spots to capture Barcelona’s beauty from every angle.

Montserrat Monastery 

Montserrat is located about 50 kilometers from Barcelona, approximately an hour’s drive. This unique monastery is surrounded by breathtaking hiking trails. Winter is the perfect time for hiking here, as you won’t have to deal with the heat while climbing. The only consideration is to avoid windy weather, as it can get quite cold up there during the winter months.

Regardless the weather or time of the year, it’s an ideal spot for incredible photos with natural landscapes, perfect for family photoshoots or individual portraits.

Museums in Barcelona

Visiting museums in winter becomes much more comfortable due to the absence of long queues. Here are some museums you should consider:

• Picasso Museum — Discover Picasso’s early works that highlight his journey to fame.

• Fundació Joan Miró — A unique collection of modernist art.

• National Art Museum of Catalonia (MNAC) — Perfect for exploring medieval and Renaissance art.

• CosmoCaixa — A science museum with interactive exhibits, great for families, from my personal experience — very entertaining for the kids

• Barcelona History Museum (MUHBA) — A deep dive into the city’s Roman and medieval history.

Catalan Cuisine

And, of course, we can’t forget about the delicious winter dishes of Catalan cuisine. Be sure to try escudella i carn d’olla, a hearty traditional soup and stew combo often enjoyed during the colder months. Winter is also the season for artichokes, which are often grilled or roasted to perfection, and don’t miss the famous dessert crema catalana, a creamy treat with a caramelized sugar topping.

Another must-try winter specialty is calçots, a type of sweet, tender green onion that’s roasted over an open flame and served with romesco sauce. These are usually enjoyed during traditional calçotades, a fun and social meal celebrated at restaurants or even outdoors with friends and family (we usually prepare them on the terrace grill on a sunny weekend day)

For a cozy evening, consider dining at historic restaurants like Can Culleretes, one of the oldest restaurants in Barcelona, known for its traditional Catalan dishes, or Cal Pep, famous for its tapas and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Winter is the perfect time to indulge in Catalan comfort food!

Winter in Barcelona offers more than just pleasant weather and fewer tourists. It’s also the perfect opportunity to capture your trip with quality photos. Whether you’re looking for family photoshoots in Barcelona, or a photographer and videographer in Barcelona, I’d be delighted to help you create lasting memories of your time in this beautiful city.