Tired of repeating the same Christmas plans every year? 🎄
Barcelona introduces several new experiences this season that combine leisure, culture, and creativity. Here are 5 original Christmas ideas for family Barcelona has to offer, perfect for everyone. A great way to capture these moments is with studio Christmas photos with the whole family.
1. Outdoor Christmas Cinema at Hotel Palace
The historic Hotel Palace Barcelona hosts Christmas movie screenings on its terrace. With blankets, popcorn, and the winter sky as backdrop, it’s a different way to watch Christmas classics in a special setting. If you’re looking to capture these moments beyond quick snapshots, a professional family session can preserve the essence of this Christmas.
This unique experience combines the nostalgia of classic cinema with the elegance of one of Barcelona’s most iconic hotels. Kids will enjoy watching their favorite movies while adults relax in a sophisticated atmosphere. The lineup usually includes family titles like “Home Alone” or “Polar Express,” perfect for creating family memories.
Practical tip: While they provide blankets, bring extra warm clothes. Screenings usually start at sunset when temperatures drop. Besides studio fun, these experiences are perfect for creating unique and fun family photos.
2. Create Your Own Christmas Card at YOULO Self-photo
At YOULO the session is nothing like one with a professional photographer: here the family is in control.
Kids can use a remote control and decide when to take the photo. There are backgrounds, Christmas props, furniture, and decorations to choose from
— Tami (Wonderstory)
The experience is completely different from a traditional photo session. Each family creates their own card and can print it right away or send it to grandparents and friends. The little ones are entertained with Christmas props while everyone else enjoys improvising together.
The best part: it’s a plan for all ages. From babies to grandparents, everyone can participate. Kids have fun with the props, adults enjoy improvising together, and you leave with a fun and creative memory
— Tami (Wonderstory)
Sessions last 40-60 minutes and usually result in over 200 photos. All delivered the same day via digital link. It’s the perfect plan for families who want to create something special without the pressure of a formal session.
As you can see in the image, creativity has no limits. You can use the props in completely original and fun ways, creating unique memories.
Discover more about this unique experience in the heart of Barcelona.
3. Christmas Market at Hotel Mandarin Oriental
The elegant hotel on Passeig de Gràcia hosts an exclusive Christmas market with origami and craft workshops. Kids can drop their letter to Santa in the special mailbox.
This market differs from traditional ones with its intimate atmosphere and activities designed specifically for families. Workshops are designed for parents and children to work together, creating everything from Christmas decorations to small handmade gifts.
The location in one of Barcelona’s most luxurious hotels adds a special touch to the experience. After the market, you can walk along Passeig de Gràcia to see the Christmas lights, combining two plans in one.
Hours: December weekends, generally 11:00 to 19:00.
4. Family Opera at Gran Teatre del Liceu
This season the Liceu presents the musical adaptation of Charles Dickens’ classic, “A Christmas Carol.” A cultural experience for the whole family, with music and staging that transform the story into an engaging experience.
The theater has specially adapted this work to make it accessible to children while maintaining the artistic quality that defines the Liceu. The runtime is reduced to 90 minutes with an intermission, perfect for keeping the little ones’ attention.
The experience goes beyond watching a show: it’s introducing children to the world of opera in a fun and understandable way. The visual effects and live music create an atmosphere that captivates both adults and children.
Recommendation: Book ahead as family shows sell out quickly. Special discounts available for large families.
5. Ice Skating and Light Show at Hospital de Sant Pau
The Sant Pau Modernist Site lights up with a light show that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Before or after the tour, you can complete the day by skating at one of the city’s ice rinks.
This plan combines three elements kids love: sports, Christmas lights, and modernist architecture. Hospital de Sant Pau, a UNESCO World Heritage site, becomes a spectacular illuminated venue during the holidays.
Temporary ice rinks are set up at several locations around Barcelona during Christmas. The one at Plaza Catalunya is among the most popular, but you’ll also find options at Port Vell and other shopping centers.
Safety tip: If kids are beginners at skating, consider going during less crowded times (weekday mornings).
Tips to Make the Most of These Plans
Plan ahead: Some of these plans require advance booking, especially YOULO and Liceu opera. The most popular experiences sell out fast during the holidays.
Combine nearby plans: The Mandarin Oriental market and Passeig de Gràcia lights are within walking distance. Hospital de Sant Pau can be visited the same day as a skating session.
Bring the essentials: For outdoor cinema, extra blankets and thermoses with hot drinks. For skating, gloves and spare socks. For YOULO, just bring your energy!
Strategic timing: Weekends are busier. If your schedule allows, try weekdays for a more relaxed experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I need to book in advance?
In some cases yes. Both YOULO sessions and Liceu opera should be booked ahead. Markets, cinema, and Sant Pau lights usually allow free access, though it’s best to arrive early to avoid crowds.
What does the YOULO experience include?
Everything you see in the studio: backgrounds, furniture, accessories and Christmas props. A family can take over 200 photos in a single session
— Tami (Wonderstory)
The price includes full use of the studio, all Christmas-themed props, and digital delivery of all photos the same day.
What’s been the most fun use of props at YOULO?
One of the most memorable was a huge Christmas bow that some families used as a hat and others as group decoration. Each year the studio renews its materials to keep surprising people
— Tami (Wonderstory)
Family creativity has no limits. Some use decorative elements in completely unexpected ways, making each session unique and fun.
What plan would you recommend for a rainy day?
YOULO and Liceu opera are perfect options for rainy days as they’re completely indoors. The Mandarin Oriental market also offers shelter and entertainment in a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
Barcelona offers these original holiday alternatives that go beyond traditional plans. Each of these experiences is designed to create special family memories, combining fun, culture, and the Christmas spirit that defines the city.
Which of these plans will you add to your holiday agenda?
