First Dip of the Year in Barcelona

Let’s go for the first dip of the year! What better way to welcome in the New Year than a bracing dip in the Mediterranean? Since 1996, hundreds of bold bathers have flocked to Platja de Sant Sebastià for the first dip of the year (Primer Bany de l’Any). Why not join these brave souls on January 1st 2017 at midday as they charge into the sea, clad in only their swimming costumes and the occasional Santa hat?!

The event, organised by el Club Natació Atlètic-Barceloneta, is totally free and is a sure-fire way to rid your cobwebs from the night before! And, if the prospect of an icy dip is a little daunting, you can register at the club´s reception prior to the event for a hot shower afterwards. This is a brilliant affair and a far better alternative to a day spent hibernating under the duvet, cradling a packet of Alka-Seltzer to nurse your hangover.

Whilst not for the faint-hearted (medically speaking), proponents of icy dips claim that the health benefits are numerous. Swimming in cold water can help your immune system, improve libido and boost circulation. Some even claim to experience a natural high so surely that´s reason enough to tempt you!

first-dip-of-the-year-in-barcelona

  • Join Europe´s Popular New Year´s Day Tradition

By taking part in Barcelona´s Primer Bany de l’Any, you’ll join the tradition of thousands of people who mark the start of the New Year with a dip in the sea, rivers or lakes and, with an average water temperature of 13 degrees in January, Barcelona provides a comparatively gentle winter bathing experience!

For over 30 years, bathers have braved the freezing waters off Barry Island (Wales) for a New Year´s Day swim and in Edinburgh (Scotland), locals take part in the Loony Dook –  an icy plunge into the River Forth where the water is decidedly chilly! Similarly, in Rzeszów (Poland) bathers refuse to be deterred by the bitingly cold waters year on year.

first-dip-of-the-year-in-barry-island

The Netherlands boasts over 60 locations for a New Year´s Day plunge, and insist there is no better way to start the year. With a whopping 25,000 participants each January, the Dutch are arguably the champions of this watery tradition. The largest scale event is the annual nieuwjaarsduik in Scheveningen which welcomes approximately 10,000 swimmers.

first-dip-of-the-year-in-the-netherlands

So, what are you waiting for?! Get 2020 off to a great start and make this January 1st a day to remember by heading to Barcelona for a New Year’s Day dip!

Christmas Bath in Barcelona - first dip of the year

Where to eat in Barcelona – Our Christmas recommendations

If you’re wondering where to eat in Barcelona over the Christmas period in 2019, look no further than our list of places that have wonderful Christmas menus and festive vibes. Here are our best suggestions of where to eat in Barcelona so you can make the most of the festive season with your close friends and family. Check out our list, categorised so you can find the perfect destination:

Where to eat in Barcelona: Trendy restaurants for Christmas

9 Nine

Enjoy their tasty tapas and Catalan fare, or even enjoy one of their tasting menus to get the full foodie experience. Always packed and with an international vibe, you can’t go wrong at 9 Nine.

9 Nine will be closed on December 24, open on December 25, 26 and 31, and January 1 and 6.

New Year’s menu available (€ 45)

Due to its popularity, book in advance for any of these Christmas days.

Address: Carrer València 334

www.facebook.com/pg/Restaurant9Nine

Where to eat in barcelona - 9-nine-restaurante

Ikibana

While Japan and Brazil are miles apart, Ikibana expertly blends both renowned cuisines together to make delicious fusion meals. Think fresh sea food and the best cuts of meat, Ikibana is one of the trendiest places to be. If you’re looking for where to eat in Barcelona on New Year’s Eve, this is the perfect option, as they are hosting a luxurious gala dinner, with tickets starting at €180 a head, where you can truly ring the New Year in in style.

They also will have special christmas menu for the 25th and 26 of December.

Open every day.

Address: Avinguda del Paral·lel 148

www.ikibana.com/parallel

where to eat in barcelona - Ikibana

Mamarosa Beach

If you want to make the most of the late winter Mediterranean sun, why not head over to Mamarosa Beach, with the perfect seaside location. Here you can sit indoors or outdoors to soak up the atmosphere of Barceloneta beach. If you’re looking for where to eat in Barcelona on New Year’s Eve and want something sophisticated, this is an ideal option as it has a special New Year’s Eve menu for just €145 a head, including all the fresh sea food you could want.

Mamarosa is open every day of December.

Address: Passeig del Mare Nostrum 19-21

www.mamarosabeach.com/

Where to eat in barcelona - Mama rosa

El Barceloneta

Another one for the seafood fans, El Barceloneta is where to eat in Barcelona if you want a more laid back al fresco experience by the sea. With its large terrace, rooms especially for groups and its group menus, it’s perfect for big groups of friends or for celebrations where all the family can get together for Christmas.

Open every day, but currently full. If you come to Barcelona next year, make sure you ​​book well in advance 😉

Address: Carrer de l’Escar 22

www.restaurantbarceloneta.com

El barceloneta - barcelona restaurants

Patrón

If you are looking for somewhere a bit different for your company dinner or celebrations with your group of friends, Patrón offers a full and lively evening with live music, cocktails and the possibility of having a private room. As well as this, they offer a special set menu from €58 per person over all the important Christmas dates, as well as special New Year’s Eve menu and party.

Open every day of the year.

Address: Travessera de Gràcia 44

www.patron-restaurant.com

PAtron - Where to eat in barcelona

Mercer

The Mercer has a Trip Advisor certificate of excellence, owing to its wonderful food. Original frescoes of the 12th century serve as a backdrop and their cuisine is dedicated to local products, offering typical traditional Catalan dishes with a careful presentation and a wide selection of wines.

Open on December 24, 25, 26 and 31. During those days they offer a Christmas menu that you can check here https://www.mercerbarcelona.com/es/restaurantes/mercer-restaurante (New Year’s Eve is already full)

For January 1, Mercer will be closed but you can book at their Gastro Bar Le Bouchon, for lunch or dinner.

Address: Carrer dels Lledó, 7

Mercer - Barcelona Restaurant

Restaurants with views

Marea Alta

With stunning views over the Mediterranean Ocean, Marea Alta is where to eat in Barcelona if you want to enjoy some city views as you celebrate the festive period. Here the sea view is complimented with delicious grilled fish. With menus for Christmas Day, Boxing Day (Sant Esteve), and New Year’s Eve, this is the perfect place for celebrations.

Closed on the evening of December 24, January 1 and 6.

Address: Avinguda Drassanes 6-8

www.mareaaltamareabaja.com

marea-alta-- Where to eat in barcelona

Terraza Martinez

Vibrant and eclectic, mixed with delicious Catalan food and views that will leave you dreamy-eyed, Terraza Martinez is where to eat in Barcelona for an exciting night out. With paella the star of its menu, it makes it the perfect place for big groups celebrating Christmas together with festive lights only adding to seasonal atmosphere.

Closed on the evening of December 24 and during the day on December 25. It is open on December 26 and 31 and January 1. Special menu for New Years: €210 including an open bar and party. Children €50.

Address: Carretera de Miramar 38

www.martinezbarcelona.com

Terraza martinez - Recomended Restaurants in Barcelona

Torre de Alta Mar

If you’re looking for a truly unique New Year’s Eve experience, Torre de Alta Mar is where to eat in Barcelona. At the top of the tower that sits by Barceloneta beach, you can enjoy your meal along with 360-degree views of the city. On New Year’s Eve, tickets start from €295 per person but include a full menu with copious drinks, as well as a party atmosphere with music and dancing all night long.

Address: Passeig Joan de Borbó 88

It is closed on December 24, 25 and 26, as well as from January 1 until 6.

www.torredealtamar.com

Torre de alta mar - Where to eat in barcelona

Michelin Starred Restaurants

ABaC

For those foodies who are looking for where to eat in Barcelona over the Christmas period, ABaC is the perfect choice. Headed up by chef Jordi Cruz, the three-star Michelin restaurant offers true luxury with its traditional dishes with an experimental edge and elegant setting up among the hills of Tibidabo.

Closed on January 1. Open on December 24, 25, 26 and 31. It is already full for this year. If you are in Barcelona for next years festivities, make sure you book at least two months in advance.

Address: Plaça J. F. Kennedy / Avinguda del Tibidabo 1

www.abacrestaurant.com

ABAC Barcelona

Xerta Restaurant

With one Michelin star, Xerta Restaurant headed up by chef Fran López is focused on the cuisine of Terres de l’Ebre. This is the perfect spot if you’re looking for a place to celebrate Christmas with that special someone.

Opened on December 24, 25, 26 and 31 and January 1. During those days they offer a Christmas menu for €85, except on New Year’s Eve, when they offer a special menu for €180.

Address: Carrer Còrsega 289

www.xertarestaurant.com

So, if you’re looking for where to eat in Barcelona over the Christmas period, why not try one of the above options. Whether you want a lively party atmosphere by the sea or fine-dining in the trendiest neighborhoods of Barcelona, there is something for everyone who is visiting Barcelona at this magical time of the year.

Barcelona gifts: Our Guide to Gifts Made in Barcelona

Where to find original Barcelona gifts? If you’re planning on doing some last-minute Christmas shopping in Barcelona this holiday season and are looking for unique gift ideas, you’ve come to the right place. 

Finding the right gift year after year can often be a daunting task, so to help you out here’s our guide to special gifts that are designed and made in Barcelona. 

From handmade jewellery, locally designed clothing and children’s toys, Barcelona really has something for those who have everything. And what’s more, by buying locally produced and designed gifts, you’ll be supporting local businesses and helping the environment.

Original Barcelona gifts

OMG BCN, Plaça de la Llana 6 and Carrer Corders, 7

Discover the home of Barcelona-based designers. OMG BCN stocks only products that are inspired by and made by local artists and artisans. From fashion, prints, accessories and home décor, we’re sure that you won’t leave this store empty handed.

Barcelona gifts - Omg barcelona

Frida’s Tierchen, Bateau Lune, Plaça de la Virreina, 7 and Konfetti Kids, Baixada de Viladecols 2

Looking for a unique gift for the youngest members of the family? These hand-crafted dolls, animal costumes and accessories by local designer María Salamanca are perfect for gifts that inspire creativity and imagination. Shop online or find her products in a range of local children’s stores.

Frida's tierchen - barcelona gifts

Meublé, Carrer de Martínez de la Rosa, 34

Meublé opened in 2012 in Gràcia with the aim of restoring antique furniture and items. This now multidisciplinary space is brimming with a range of locally made and designed home items. What’s more, it also offers workshops and exhibition spaces for local artists.

Meublé - Barcelona gifts

Casa Mariol, Carrer Rosselló, 442

Although these gifts are not technically made in Barcelona, Casa Mariol is a wine producer from a small medieval village called Batea in Tarragona. Their store in the Barcelona Eixample district stocks the best organic wine of the Terra Alta Denomination of Origin. Why not drop in to try a glass before you buy!

Barcelona gifts - casa mariol

B de Barcelona, Avinguda de Gaudí, 28

Hand crafted in workshops in Manresa and Parets del Valles using locally sourced materials, the souvenirs you’ll find at B de Barcelona are exquisitely designed and made. Choose from colourful prints of the Sagrada Família, funky mugs, Barcelona-inspired jewellery and much more.

Barcelona gifts- b de barcelona

Colmillo de Morsa, Carrer de Vic, 15 

We’d recommend dropping by Colmillo de Morsa in Gràcia to discover this local “slow” fashion brand that oozes personality. Their showroom, studio and store stocks a varied range of the brand’s collections and boasts exclusive designs and top quality.

Barcelona gifts - colmillo de morsa

Koetània, Carrer de Goya, 8

If you’re looking for something extra special this Christmas, at Koetània artisan jewellers you’ll find locally designed and crafted pieces of jewellery at reasonable prices. Our favourite is their exclusive collection inspired by Barcino– the Roman name for Barcelona. 

Barcelona gifts -Koetània

Tiny Cottons, Passeig del Born, 7 and Via Augusta, 25

This beautiful and brightly coloured clothing for babies and children comes in fun and exciting prints. Renowned internationally for its fresh designs, at Tiny Cottons their motto is to be the go-to brand for grandparents due to the great quality of their collections.

Barcelona gifts - tiny cottons

Barcelona really has something for everyone; so whoever you are buying for, we hope this guide comes in handy.  So put a smile on your loved one’s faces this year with unique Barcelona gifts.

Happy shopping!

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

Are you planning on spending the New Year in Barcelona and looking for a special way to ring in the next year? Then look no further; we’ve compiled a list of the best parties for you to celebrate the night away with your partner, friends or family.

For locals, the celebration starts at home with a family meal and the traditional eating of 12 grapes at midnight, before hitting the town. However, we’ve selected a range of events starting before and after midnight at restaurants, bars and clubs so you can find the best event for you.

So what are you waiting for, start planning a New Year you’ll never forget in the centre Barcelona!

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

New Year’s Eve Parties in Barcelona

Fireworks: Plaça Espanya, Av. María Cristina

Unlike other cosmopolitan cities, it was only in 2013 that the tradition of an official outdoor New Year’s event began in Barcelona. Now locals and visitors alike can wrap up and get together to be awed by a fantastic performance of fireworks and music! This family-friendly celebration is free and starts at 9.30 pm. 

Sutton: C/ Tuset, 13

Looking to spend the New Year in style? Then we have the place for you! With tickets starting from €50 (including 3 drinks) and VIP tables starting from €1,000, this New Year’s Eve the exclusive nightclub venue plays host to DJs and artists such as Juanpa Claret, Gerard Roig and Xavi Ques. 

Bling Bling: C/ Tuset, 8–10

One of the city’s most exclusive nightclubs offers you an unforgettable evening starting at 1 am. With a selection of DJs, the option of VIP tables and the best music, ring in the bells with your loved ones at home then get the party started. We’re sure you’ll dance the night away.

Gatsby: C/ Tuset, 19

This themed restaurant come nightclub will take you back to the 1920s. Enjoy an exquisite menu of local and international dishes plus nightlong entertainment with singers, dancers and much more. After dinner, grab a cocktail and hit the dance floor. This luxury space won’t disappoint!

Sala Apolo: C/ Nou de la Rambla, 107

From 01:00 to 05:30 you’ll have access to two exclusive events held at one of Barcelona’s most renowned nightclubs, with over 75 years of clubbing tradition. In the main room, enjoy Nitsa live electronic beats from Shelby Grey, DJ Kosmos and more. In room 2 or “La 2” discover Astin, Nitsa’s house and disco alternative. Early Bird tickets are only €25 – what are you waiting for!

Razzmatazz: C/ dels Almogàvers, 122

With five different rooms, Razzmatazz really does have something for everyone. Choose from two ticket types, with entry either from 22:30 or after midnight, including two drinks and a special edition T-shirt – plus grapes, party favours and cava if you choose to see in the New Year there. Tickets cost €54.50 or €44.50 respectively.

Pacha: Passeig Marítim Barceloneta, 38

Head to the Barcelona seafront to party the night away at Pacha, with a selection of Europe’s most famous DJs. As well as being a nightclub, the Pacha restaurant also offers a dinner right by the sea and includes entry to the club to the exclusive New Year party.

Poble Espanyol
Av. Francesc Ferrer i Guàrdia, 13

Starting at 10.30 pm, discover a traditional Spanish street party in the centre of Barcelona at the Poble Espanyol. A standard ticket costing €40 (until December 26) will grant you access to three different outdoor spaces. Grab a VIP table with your friends and loved ones starting from €120. Tickets include four drinks, grapes and party favours.

Catwalk
Carrer de Ramon Trias Fargas, 2–4

Catwalk boasts the best of R&B and hip-hop music in an exclusive space located on the seafront. With a range of tickets starting from €30 right up to €3,500, enjoy three rooms, neon lights and an outdoor terrace.

Wherever you choose to celebrate the end of the year, we hope you have a blast!