2026 Climate Averages

Weather: Barcelona — December

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

👍 Climate Overview

December is a good time to visit Barcelona. Mild temperatures around 15°C make it comfortable for exploring. With only around 9 hours of daylight, plan outdoor activities earlier in the day. Being off-peak, you'll find better deals and fewer crowds. At 16°C, the sea is too cold for most swimmers.

8.1
GoTripzi Score Great

Based on weather comfort, crowds, prices, and activity options

Avg High

15°C

Avg Low

9°C

Rainy days

6days

Daylight

9.2h

Feels like 13°C / 6°C — wind chill makes it feel cooler

Rainfall

36mm

Sunshine

7.1h/day

Humidity

78%

Humid
Sun Strength

2.7

Moderate
Wind

14 km/h (gusts 27)

Sea Temp

16°C ❄️ Cold

Is December a good time to visit Barcelona?

Conditions are pleasant for sightseeing, though you might encounter occasional showers.

Now

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Feels like --
Wind --
Humidity --
UV Index --
Local time —

Air Quality

Travel Context

  • Crowds
    Quiet
  • Travel Costs Shoulder Rates

Daylight

Sunrise

08:11

Sunset

17:23

9.2h daylight

Visiting Barcelona in December: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Fewer crowds and better hotel deals

Cons

  • Sea too cold for comfortable swimming

Things to Do in December

Events & Festivals

🎉
Fira de Santa Llúcia Christmas Market
Late November–December 23 Festival

Recommended for This Weather

🚶 Walking tours & sightseeing
🚲 Cycling & bike tours
🥾 Hiking & nature trails
🍜 Food tours & culinary experiences
🎭 Cultural tours & local experiences

Barcelona Weather by Month

Month Avg High Avg Low Rain Sunshine Humidity UV Index Crowds Condition
Jan 14°C 7°C 5d (44mm) 7.4h
76% Humid
3.2 Moderate
Good
Feb 16°C 8°C 6d (29mm) 8.4h
78% Humid
4.4 Moderate
Good
Mar 16°C 10°C 10d (60mm) 9.1h
77% Humid
5.7 High
Good
Apr 18°C 11°C 8d (68mm) 10.7h
75% Humid
7.6 Very High
Excellent
May 22°C 15°C 8d (46mm) 12.5h
76% Humid
9.2 Very High
Excellent
Jun 26°C 20°C 7d (28mm) 13h
74% Humid
9.7 Very High
Excellent
Jul 29°C 22°C 5d (30mm) 13.2h
73% Muggy
9.6 Very High
Good
Aug 30°C 23°C 6d (49mm) 11.9h
73% Muggy
8.4 Very High
Good
Sep 26°C 20°C 11d (75mm) 10.3h
76% Humid
6.3 High
Excellent
Oct 23°C 16°C 9d (75mm) 8.8h
78% Humid
4.6 Moderate
Excellent
Nov 18°C 12°C 9d (54mm) 7.5h
77% Humid
3.2 Moderate
Good
Dec Current 15°C 9°C 6d (36mm) 7.1h
78% Humid
2.7 Moderate
Good

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4.7

Where to Stay

See hotels, apartments & rentals around Barcelona – live prices from Booking.com, Expedia, Vrbo and more

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Barcelona

Barcelona's Gaudí architectural wonderland meets Mediterranean beaches and vibrant Catalan culture, home to the ever-evolving Sagrada Família.

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What to Pack for December

Dress in layers — a mix of long sleeves, light sweaters, and a versatile jacket works best for changeable conditions. Pack a compact umbrella or light rain jacket for occasional showers.

Warm Quiet

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📋Essentials
👕Clothing
👟Footwear
🎒Accessories
🧴Toiletries & Health

Planning a trip to Barcelona?

💰 Off-peak — great deals available now

Frequently Asked Questions

Is December a good time to visit Barcelona?
December is typically good for visiting Barcelona, with average highs of 15°C and around 6 rainy days. Plan your activities accordingly—outdoor sightseeing is best on dry days, while rainy days are perfect for museums and indoor attractions.
Does it get cold at night in Barcelona in December?
Nights in Barcelona during December are cool at around 9°C. Bring a jacket or sweater for evenings, especially if you plan to dine outdoors or take evening walks. The temperature drop from day to night can be noticeable.
What should I pack for Barcelona in December?
With highs of 15°C and lows of 9°C in December, we recommend: Layerable clothing, Light jacket, Compact umbrella, Comfortable walking shoes. Layering is key as temperatures can vary between air-conditioned interiors and outdoors. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for cobblestone streets.
Does it rain a lot in Barcelona in December?
Barcelona typically sees around 6 rainy days in December. Rain is usually in the form of brief showers rather than all-day downpours, so a compact umbrella is sufficient. Mornings tend to be drier, making them ideal for outdoor sightseeing.
Can you swim in Barcelona in December?
Swimming in Barcelona during December is possible but quite cold, with air temperatures around 15°C. Only brave swimmers venture in without a wetsuit. Consider indoor pools or thermal baths as an alternative if your hotel offers them.
How many hours of daylight are there in Barcelona in December?
In December, Barcelona gets approximately 9.2 hours of daylight per day. This affects how much sightseeing you can fit in—longer days mean more time for outdoor activities, while shorter days are perfect for cozy museum visits and early dinners.
Is December peak season in Barcelona?
No, December is not peak season in Barcelona. Expect better value on accommodation, shorter queues at attractions, and fewer tourists at popular spots. This is an excellent time to experience the city like a local and enjoy a more authentic atmosphere.

Weather Data: Based on 2020–2025 historical climate data from Open-Meteo

Solar calculations: SunCalc (timezone: Europe/Madrid)

Last Updated: February 2026

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