Barcelona Port Vell Review - Highlights, Port Vell Fair Christmas Market

Updated on 17/12/2025 ｜ Published on 17/12/2024

Barcelona Port Vell Review - Port Vell is one of the must-visit attractions for first-time visitors to Barcelona. This article will introduce the historical background of Port Vell, must-see highlights, best visiting times, ticket information, transportation guides, as well as the Port Vell Fair Christmas Market during the holiday season, helping you easily plan your trip to Barcelona.

Port Vell Past & Present: From Trade Hub to Seaside Living Room

Barcelona Port Vell is a historic port area located in the waterfront district of central Barcelona. Originally, it was the heart of Barcelona’s commercial trade in the 18th century and has long been a vital hub for ships. With the city’s growth and the gradual expansion of the port, Port Vell underwent a major modernisation before the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. This transformation turned the historic port area into a contemporary tourist destination, introducing numerous leisure facilities, commercial areas, and cultural venues.

Maritime Museum & Columbus Monument: Symbols of the Age of Discovery

The Port Vell area is home to numerous restaurants, shops, and museums, making it a popular gathering spot for both tourists and locals. One of the cultural highlights here is the Barcelona Maritime Museum (Museu Marítim), which showcases extensive exhibits related to Barcelona’s maritime history. Visitors can explore the city’s rich sailing traditions and Mediterranean culture through the museum’s informative displays.

Another iconic landmark is the Columbus Monument (Monument a Colom), a towering structure built to honour the explorer Christopher Columbus from the Age of Discovery. Located at the entrance of Port Vell, it has become a must-visit spot for tourists. Visitors can take an elevator or climb the stairs to the observation deck, offering panoramic views of Barcelona’s cityscape, harbour, and coastline. This is undoubtedly one of the best spots for capturing stunning photographs of the area.

Christmas Markets & Festivals: Modern Festivities by the Harbour

In addition, the Port Vell Fair is another major highlight of the area. Every year, various markets and festive events are held in Port Vell, with the Port Vell Fair being the most iconic. The market typically features stalls selling handmade crafts, artwork, and local specialties, along with street performances and cultural activities. It attracts many tourists and locals alike. The fair is usually accompanied by a festive atmosphere, adding vibrant colour to Barcelona’s cultural life and offering visitors a unique shopping and entertainment experience.

Port Vell Night Review: Romantic Vibes, Foodie Regrets & Highlights

While Port Vell is beautiful by day, I personally prefer the evening atmosphere, especially during the December Christmas market. It doesn't have the crowding or cold of London's Hyde Park; instead, it offers a distinctly relaxed Mediterranean vibe. Here is my actual route, the highlights, and a piece of 'painful' advice from experience.

My Dinner Route: High Value Experience at the Historic 7 Portes

Before heading to Port Vell, I chose to have dinner at the nearby classic, '7 Portes'. It’s famous and touristy, but still retains an old-school elegance.

We ordered the classic Paella, Arros Negre (Black Rice), and starters, with the bill coming to around €84 for two. Honestly, given the prestige, service level, and food quality of this centenary establishment, this price would likely only get you a meal at an average chain restaurant in the UK. Barcelona’s prices are truly friendly by comparison. After dinner, we took a slow walk to the Old Port (about 10-15 minutes), which was perfect for digestion.

December Weather & What to Wear

Another surprise was the weather. I expected the seaside in December to be cold, but the Barcelona winter night was unexpectedly gentle. There was little wind and the temperature was very comfortable; we just wore standard coats and didn't even need to wrap our scarves tight. With the yachts docked at the harbour reflecting the lights of the Ferris wheel, the whole atmosphere was romantic and relaxed—the perfect ending to a full day's itinerary.

Columbus Monument

The Columbus Monument, designed by architect Gaietà Buïgas, was built for the 1888 Barcelona World Expo. At the top of the monument stands a statue of Columbus pointing towards the horizon, symbolising his discovery of the New World. Visitors can take an elevator or climb the stairs to the viewing platform for panoramic views of the harbour and the city.

Interestingly, the Columbus statue atop this monument is the only one in Spain that does not point towards the Americas.

Port Vell Fair: Remember to Arrive on an Empty Stomach

The Port Vell Fair is a lively open-air market, especially buzzing during the festive season, attracting huge crowds of tourists and locals. The Ferris wheel here is also a must-do.

A Market Mistake: Don't Eat Before You Come

I have to share a failed experience here: when I arrived at the Port Vell Fair, I immediately regretted it! I regretted eating too much for dinner! The atmosphere was fantastic, with the air filled with the scent of Churros, Mulled Wine, and various Catalan street snacks. Watching passers-by looking satisfied with steaming food in their hands, while my stomach was already stuffed with Paella, I could only stare at the food and sigh.

So, if you plan to visit the night market, please come on an 'empty stomach', or just eat until you're half full at dinner. The snack selection here is rich, and eating while walking is the proper way to enjoy the market.