Barcelona in Winter: Take on the Catalan Capital (for under £100 per night)
Barcelona, Spain
While the UK hunkers down for the cold winter months Barcelona keeps on shining. Winter here is gentle – cool enough for exploring comfortably, but warm enough that a café con leche outdoors isn’t just possible, it’s a pleasure.
And the best part? You’ll enjoy emptier museums, quieter beaches, and better prices across the city. That means more time soaking up the Catalan culture – and less time queuing behind crowds.
With fewer tourists and that irresistible winter sun, Barcelona offers a different, more intimate side to one of Europe’s favourite cities. Here’s how to make the most of it when you fly from London Southend Airport.
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Where to Stay in Barcelona in Winter
In winter, Barcelona’s stylish hotels slash their rates – perfect if you want a central, comfortable stay without blowing the budget. Whether you prefer elegant boulevards or Gothic alleyways, you’ll quickly find the perfect base for exploring. Here are a few handpicked options that frequently have rooms for under £100 a night in winter:
The Moods Oasis
Set in the elegant Sarrià-Sant Gervasi district, The Moods Oasis offers sleek, modern rooms in a relaxed part of town. It’s a brilliant spot if you want local cafés and boutiques, and still only a few metro stops away from the buzz of Plaça de Catalunya.
Hotel Lleó
Just one block away from the famous Las Ramblas, Hotel Lleó blends modern style with a hard-to-beat location. After a day exploring Barcelona’s old town, return to a rooftop pool and a super comfy bed – all without the summer price tag.
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Gaudí Hotel
A stone’s throw from the famous Rambla and Gothic Quarter, this hotel is perfect for design lovers. Its rooftop terrace gives you a direct view of Palau Güell, one of Gaudí’s lesser-known masterpieces – magical when lit up in the crisp winter evenings.
B&B Boutique Ca La Maria
This charming B&B in the Eixample district feels like a cosy, stylish home from home. Think art-filled lounges, homemade breakfasts, and a leafy sun terrace – a real hidden gem for a winter city break.
What to Do in Barcelona in Winter
Explore the capital of Catalonia without breaking the bank (or breaking a sweat). Here are some of the best places to go and things to do in Barcelona on a winter’s day.
Explore Gaudí’s greatest hits
Winter is the best time to marvel at Barcelona’s iconic architecture without jostling for space. Wander through the surreal spires of the Sagrada Família or stroll dreamily around the colourful mosaics of Park Güell with space to breathe (and better photos, too).
Take a beachside stroll
Yes, you read that right. Barcelona’s beaches are beautiful even in winter – just swap swimsuits for light jackets. The boardwalk from Barceloneta to Port Olímpic is made for sunny winter strolls, seaside tapas, and lazy afternoons people-watching by the water.
Discover the magic of Montjuïc
Take a cable car up to Montjuïc hill and explore its gardens, castle, and art galleries. Winter’s cooler air makes climbing and walking around here so much more comfortable – and the views across the city and sea are crystal clear on bright days.
Museum-hop like a local
With world-class museums like the Picasso Museum, MACBA (Modern Art), and MNAC (Catalan Art), you can easily fill a few cooler afternoons with incredible exhibitions – no endless queues or rushed visits.
Where to eat in Barcelona in winter
Whether you’re looking for traditional winter treats or classic Spanish tapas, Barcelona’s got you covered.
Hot chocolate and churros in the Gothic Quarter
Warm yourself up Catalan-style with a cup of thick, molten hot chocolate paired with crunchy churros. Look for traditional spots like Granja Viader or La Pallaresa in the Gothic Quarter – perfect for a mid-morning or late-afternoon pick-me-up.
Tapas tastings at El Xampanyet
Winter evenings are made for hopping between tapas bars, nibbling on jamón ibérico, patatas bravas, and freshly grilled squid. El Xampanyet, near the Picasso Museum, is a classic – lively, authentic, and brimming with local charm.
Fresh seafood in the Fishing District
Fresh seafood is a must, and the cooler months are peak season for treats like mussels and clams. Head to La Barceloneta’s old fishing district and tuck into paella or grilled fish at places like Can Solé or La Mar Salada.
Fly to Barcelona from London Southend Airport
From peaceful plazas to tapas-filled evenings, Barcelona in winter offers all the sunshine and culture you need – without the summer rush. Book your escape from London Southend Airport today and get ready to experience a different side of Catalonia’s capital.
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