Barcelona Football Weekend: Markets, Matchday & Festive Magic

Smoother Starts: Arrival & Hotel
My journey began with Vueling Airlines: efficient, straightforward, and comfortable. Despite landing late, Barcelona airport was a breeze—just half an hour from plane to arrivals thanks to the new photo and fingerprint system at passport control. Transfers are seamless here; in just 20–30 minutes, I was at my hotel - Hotel ILUNION Les Corts Spa

First impressions of the hotel were strong: a spacious, spotless lobby with ample seating and a welcoming bar. My room offered a generous layout and a retro, Spanish 70s design—perhaps a little dated, but extremely clean, comfortable and functional, with a large bathroom to match.

For breakfast, guests have a choice: a generous buffet for €18 (payable locally), or a lighter express offering of coffee, juice and a pastry for €6. The location truly sets this hotel apart—just 10 minutes’ walk from the Nou Camp, so close you can see the stadium from your window. Public transport gets you to the heart of the action at La Rambla in 30–40 minutes, or you can hop in a taxi and be there in 20.

Taste & Tradition: Barcelona’s Markets
No Barcelona visit is complete without wandering through Mercat de Sant Josep de la Boqueria. My morning began here, relishing the sights, sounds, and flavours at this famous food market—perfect for sampling fresh local produce and sweet treats before a day of exploration.

From there, it’s a gentle stroll past La Rambla into the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, where Barcelona’s history and vibrant street life unfold around every corner. In December, the city reveals an extra layer of charm: in the square by Cathedral La Seu, I stumbled upon the magical Christmas market. Locals queued outside the cathedral to view nativity scenes and pick up seasonal crafts, giving the area a warm, festive buzz that’s a brilliant alternative to the larger, more traditional Christmas markets in Central Europe.

Seaside Strolls & Winter Sunshine
With the weather on my side—mild and bright enough for short sleeves, even if the locals had their big coats on—I made my way down to the port, soaking up the city’s coastal charm. The harbour and beach area made for a scenic route before heading back to prepare for match day.

Match Day: Nou Camp Experience
By mid-afternoon, excitement for the evening’s football fixture was building. The stadium is an easy walk from the hotel, and the atmosphere intensifies as fans gather, well before kick-off. The crowd swelled as the gates opened—a sea of anticipation for another classic Barça home game. The result: a resounding win for Barcelona, celebrated late into the night with post-match tapas at a local café.

36-Hour City Adventure
With a mid-morning easyJet flight home, there was little time for further sightseeing—but in just 36 hours, Barcelona delivered food discoveries, cultural wonders, and football excitement. The added bonus of the Christmas market by Cathedral La Seu made the whole experience extra special.