Barcelona, touched by the Mediterranean Sea on its eastern side, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe. With its sun-kissed beaches, outdoor markets, restaurants and churches, the cosmopolitan city is unique in its culture and architecture. The nightlife makes for an exciting allure with its pulsating nightclubs. The churches and museums will draw you into the city’s fascinating history and culture. Satiate your shopping needs at the local markets, where you can buy clothes, shoes, knick knacks, souvenirs, paintings, antiques and more. If you’re visiting Barcelona in February, take a look at what you need to know.
Why is Barcelona in February a must-visit?
While February is not the most perfect time to visit Barcelona weather-wise, there are many remarkable festivals happening at this time that make it an ideal time to visit. The winter weather attracts fewer crowds, allowing you to experience the city like a local. With spring just around the corner, the slightly chilly weather will not stop you from enjoying the week-long festivals and carnivals, which are a must-see as they allow you to experience the city’s traditions and culture like never before. February is also the perfect time to engage in flavorful tasting experiences as the restaurants offer many traditional Catalan dishes with ingredients unique to the season. The best part is that the lack of crowds bares Barcelona naked to you allowing you to see the city in all its glory.
Barcelona Weather in February
With the spring season just about a month away, the weather in Barcelona in February is mildly chilly. The average maximum temperatures in Barcelona in February are around 14°C (57°F), whereas the average minimum temperatures are around 5°C (41°F). You can expect to see light rainfall that does not last more than a few minutes.
Barcelona in February : Things to do
1
Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Família is an unfinished Roman Catholic church, designed by architect, Antoni Gaudi. Stand under the church’s towers and look up at the high ceiling with slender columns that reflect light from the stained glass windows. Attracting millions of visitors every year, the church sees fewer visitors in February.
February Timings
Daily from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Ticket sales end 30 minutes before closing time.
Carrer de Mallorca, 401, 08013 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
2
Park Güell
Park Guell is another one of Gaudi’s masterpieces, where gardens meet architectonic elements. Its vibrant colors, rustic stone walls, and its natural beauty will make you feel like you’re in a magical world. Visiting in February allows you to walk the park freely without as many visitors.
February Timings
8.30 AM to 6:15 PM (last entry time at 5.30 PM).
From February 17th to March 24th, extended hours to 7 PM (last entry time at 6 PM).
08024 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
3
Casa Vicens
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Casa Vicens is the first house designed by Antoni Gaudi. The façade, with its intricate wrought iron work and bright colors, will grab your attention. Tour the inside of the building to marvel at its oriental interiors, spread over three floors.
February Timings
Daily from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Ticket sales end 40 minutes before closing time.
Carrer de les Carolines, 20, 08012 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
4
Poble Espanyol
Poble Espanyol is an open-air architectural museum that is a must-visit if you want to learn about the rich Spanish heritage. The buildings, restaurants, theaters etc. around are designed to give the look and feel of old Spanish villages. Stroll around the complex to get a taste of the Catalonian spirit.
February Timings
Mondays - 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM | Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Sunday - 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM | Friday - 9:00 AM to 3:00 AM | Saturday - 9:00 AM to 4:00 AM
Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13, 08038 Barcelona, Spain
Getting There ›
5
Barcelona Zoo
The Barcelona Zoo is home to over 7000 animals of more than 400 species. A petting zoo is also available, which is a great attraction for kids. The zoo makes for the perfect family outing as you discover tropical birds, primates, felines and more.
February Timings
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Parc de la Ciutadella, 08003 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
6
Casa Batlló
The Casa Batlló, also called the House of Bones, is a classic Gaudi-designed building. Its scaled façade with bony balconies gives the feeling that the building is made of bones. Get to the roof of the building for a close view of its iconic mosaic chimneys.
February Timings
9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (last entry: 8:00 PM)
Passeig de Gràcia, 43, 08007 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
7
Walk around the Ramblas and Barri Gotic
La Rambla is Barcelona’s most well-known pedestrian strip. Take a walk around the area and watch in awe street performers, or hang out at one of the cafes by the roadside. The adjoining cobbled walkway of Barri Gotic takes you to a neighborhood with Gothic churches, shops and more restaurants.
Gothic Quarter, Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
8
Casa Milà
Casa Mila , or the Stone Quarry, lives up to its name with the stone slabs that make up the façade. The building has a natural ventilation system, making air conditioning unnecessary. Its iconic roof offers panoramic views of the city. Night tours are available and are highly recommended.
February Timings
9:00 AM to 6.30 PM
Night tour: 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM.
Provença, 261-265, 08008 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
9
Flamenco Barcelona
Something you cannot leave Barcelona without doing is attending a Flamenco show. A Flamenco is traditionally a musical style characterized by fast-paced guitar riffs, finger-snapping, handclapping and electrifying dancing. So sit back, sip on some wine, enjoy delicious tapas and watch years of Spanish Culture unfold before your eyes.
February Timings
Daily from 5:00 PM to 10:30 PM
95HF+JW Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
10
Camp Nou
Camp Nou is the home stadium of FC Barcelona. Its capacity of over 99000 seats makes it the largest stadium in Europe. Walk in the shoes of many famous footballers that have played here as you tour the dressing rooms, the entrance tunnel, the VIP seats, and the museum.
On days of matches in La Liga or the Copa del Rey: The Tour will be closed all day. Only the Museum may be visited, plus a panoramic view of the stadium until 3 hours before kick-off.
On days of matches in the Champions League: The day before the match and on the match day itself, the Tour is closed all day. Only the Museum may be visited, plus a panoramic view of the stadium until 3 PM.
February Timings
Monday-Saturday: 10:00 AM to 6:30 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM
C. d'Aristides Maillol, 12, 08028 Barcelona,
Spain
Getting There ›
Barcelona in February : Events to Look Out For
Santa Eulàlia Festival
9th to 12th February
The Santa Eulalia Festival is the biggest annual festival in Barcelona for children. The festival program features concerts, parades with giants and other fantasy figures, open house events and other activities of all kinds, mostly for children. These events take place at several venues across the city.
Barcelona Carnival
8th to 14th February
The Barcelona Carnival is a week-long festival, which is about eating, drinking, dancing and partying before the fasting period for Lent. The first day of the carnival, the Fat Thursday, is celebrated with food competitions and events. The last day is on Ash Wednesday, when the famous carnival sardine is buried.
Chinese New Year Celebration
February 17th
The Chinese New Year in Barcelona is celebrated by combining the traditions of China and Catalonia. With giants and dragons of both cultures a part of the parade, you can witness two cultures merging. The celebration also involves martial arts, dances, human towers, devils and percussionists.
Copa del Rey (Spanish League Match at Camp Nou)
The Copa del Rey, or the King’s Cup, is an annual football cup for Spanish football teams. Barcelona is the current cup holder for the year 2018. Surround yourself in an electrifying atmosphere as the crowd goes wild cheering for their favorite team in the Camp Nou stadium.
Llum BCN - Festival Llum
16th to 18th February
Started in 2012, Llum BCN is a festival of light that aims to light up the darkness of winter with the splendor of light. Local and international artists are brought to the city to display their light installations which are reflected on some of the city's most beautiful buildings and spaces.
Winter Sales in February
All of Feb
The winter sales in Barcelona start after the Three Kinds Day every year. With February being the last leg of the winter sales, outlets and stores of major fashion brands offer great deals and discounts on their products across the city, making it the perfect time to go shopping.
Barcelona in February : 5-day Itinerary
1
Barcelona Essentials
LanguageSpanish, Catalan
Time zoneGMT+2
Country Code+93
Socket Type F
CurrencyEuros €
Barcelona Weather in February
The weather in Barcelona in February is unpredictable with some sunny days that can turn cold and cloudy. The average maximum temperatures are 14°C (about 57°F) and the average minimum temperatures are 5°C (about 41°F). The city sees an average of 5 hours of sunlight, with moderate to heavy rainfall.
Where to Stay in Barcelona during February
The Plaça de Catalunya is one of the most preferred areas in Barcelona to stay in, as it is in the center of the city, making it well connected with the rest of the city. There are a couple of excellent hotels in this area, including the Hotel Olivia, and boutique hotel H10 Catalunya Plaza . If you’re looking for cheaper accommodation, consider staying away from the city centre, like in Poble Sec or Montjuic / Plaça d'España. The Hello BCN Hostel and the Hipstel hostel offer cheaper accommodations in these areas.
What to Pack for Visiting Barcelona in February
With the weather being mostly cloudy and chilly, it’s safe to pack winter wear, like sweaters, long-sleeved tees, full-length pants, any other thick material clothing, and closed shoes. As the weather is unpredictable, pack an umbrella in case it gets sunny, or it rains. A raincoat is also a good idea. Pack at least one item of beachwear in case the sun is out and you want to take a dip in the sea.
Getting Around Barcelona in February
Barcelona is a relatively small city, allowing you to reach one end of the city from the city center in under an hour by the metro. The connectivity of the metro makes it easy to navigate your way through the city. The other convenient public transportation options include buses, FGC and trams. With so many options available, your travel within the city is not only convenient, but also lets you explore the city in different ways. Moped rental options are also available. Taxis are common but not recommended as they are more expensive.
Barcelona in February - Must Try Delicasies
Barcelona has a rich cuisine with many iconic dishes that will tease your taste buds. Here’s a list of the top expert-recommended dishes you should try and where you can have them in Barcelona.
Used as a side dish, the Pa Amb Tomaquet is more than just toasted bread. The bread is polished with fresh ripe tomatoes instead of butter, giving it a uniquely tangy flavor. Some restaurants also rub the bread with garlic before adding the tomatoes.
Try this dish here : Bar del Pla
Made with grilled pork sausage and served with a side of sautéed white beans, the Butifarra Amb Seques is a traditional countryside dish that will satiate your food lust. The best Catalan beans, Sant Pau or Del Ganxet, are used to perfect this dish.
Try this dish here : Cal Pep
This dish with grilled spring onions and sauce is quite popular in February and other winter months. Pour the delicious sauce, made with nuts and local dry sweet pepper, onto the spring onion, and let your taste buds explode as you bite into the dripping onion.
Try this dish here : El Jardí de l'Àpat
Barcelona, being a coastal city, is known for its seafood cuisine, especially cod fish. The Bacalla A La Llauna, made by sautéing cod fish in olive oil, garlic and paprika, is delicious in its simplicity. This dish can be commonly found at the local food markets.
Try this dish here : La Panxa del Bisbe
The Fideua is like paella, but with a twist. This dish is Barcelona’s take on paella, in which it is made with less seafood than paella, and with noodles or pasta instead of rice. Served with a side of aioli sauce, this dish is sure to leave you wanting more.
Try this dish here : Can Solé
Tips for Visiting Barcelona in February
- It is best to book your tickets to many attractions online, as, even though it is off-season, long lines at the ticket counters are not rare.
- Public transportation can get crowded, making you prone to pickpocketing. Be wary of your valuables and keep them close to you at all times.
- Many attractions provide guided tours at extra cost that will be worth it. The guide will explain each attraction in detail, ensuring you learn as much as possible about the attraction.
- Pack a good camera as the winter skies in Barcelona make for an ideal backdrop for the perfect pictures.
- Wear comfortable shoes as you want to avoid hurting your feet walking around a lot.
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The post Visiting Barcelona In February – The Definitive Guide appeared first on Headout Blog.
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