3 cities to enjoy the December Bridge: Bilbao, Barcelona and Malaga

December is a magical month, and the December long weekend is the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions and colours that fill cities with life at this time of year. This long weekend invites you to explore the illuminated corners of cities like Bilbao, Barcelona and Malaga, where the Christmas atmosphere, traditional cuisine and a vibrant cultural offering create an unforgettable experience.

In each of these destinations, Vincci Hotels becomes the ideal refuge, combining comfort and elegance with the warmth of a holiday that is lived with intensity. Below, we invite you to discover each of these 3 cities for these very special dates.

Bilbao



December in Bilbao is a true spectacle for the senses. From the beginning of the month, the streets of the centre are filled with Christmas lights and decorations, and walking through the old town and Arenal Square becomes a magical experience. Here, traditional Christmas markets offer unique crafts and local specialties that add warmth to every visit. Bilbao's gastronomy at this time is especially noteworthy, with dishes such as garlic soup and cod pil-pil, as well as artisanal sweets that evoke the warmth of a Basque Christmas.

One of the most eagerly awaited traditions is the Santo Tomás fair, which, although held in mid-December, begins to leave its mark from the beginning of the month with events and displays that reflect the rich Basque culture and tradition. Music, traditional dances and a festive atmosphere fill the streets, giving Bilbao an authentic and lively feel.

What you can't miss on your visit to Bilbao during the December bank holiday:

* Ice rink and slide: The ecological ice skating rink, with a surface area of 800 square metres, is one of the most eagerly awaited attractions at Muelle del Arenal. Half of the facility will be covered, allowing you to enjoy skating whatever the weather. In addition, the large slide with 6 sliding lanes, located at Muelle de Ripa, promises fun for all ages. Both activities will be available from 25 November, offering a unique winter experience in the heart of Bilbao.

* Nativity scene exhibitions: Bilbao is filled with Christmas magic with its numerous nativity scene exhibitions spread throughout the city. The exhibition in the portico of the San Nicolás de Bari church stands out, where you can admire spectacular audiovisual nativity scenes. The Diocesan Museum offers an exhibition with nativity scenes from around the world, while the Easter Steps Museum brings together beautiful Christmas nativity scenes. These exhibitions are a must-see for those who want to immerse themselves in the Christmas traditions of the region.

The Vincci Consulado de Bilbao 4*, located on the banks of the estuary and very close to the Guggenheim Museum, offers accommodation where modern design and comfort combine to offer an unforgettable experience. The rooms of this hotel have views of the estuary and the city, and its Kondutxo restaurant offers a menu with reinterpreted local flavours, perfect for those looking for a contemporary touch of Basque cuisine.

Vincci Consulado de Bilbao 4*

Barcelona



In December, Barcelona is transformed into a city of lights and joy, with a cultural and festive offering that invites you to explore its streets and squares. The Santa Llúcia market, in front of the Cathedral, is an essential destination for those looking to soak up the Catalan Christmas atmosphere, with stalls selling nativity figures and handmade decorations.

In addition, during the long weekend, the city shines even more with the decorations on Passeig de Gràcia, where emblematic buildings such as la Batlló House and La Pedrera are illuminated with visual spectacles that enhance their architectural beauty. Catalan gastronomy at this time is rich and welcoming, with traditional dishes such as escudella i carn d'olla and cannelloni, as well as sweets such as almond nougat and Christmas coca.

What you can't miss on your visit to Barcelona during the December long weekend

* Nadal at Port: From 29 November 2024 to 6 January 2025, the Bosch i Alsina quay (Moll de la Fusta) will host the sixth edition of 'Nadal al Port'. This event has established itself as one of the most emblematic Christmas markets in Barcelona, offering a unique experience on the seafront. The market not only promotes maritime heritage among citizens, but also turns the Moll de la Fusta into a meeting space that strengthens the relationship between the port and the city. In addition to the market, visitors can enjoy various attractions and an ice rink, making this event a must-see during the festivities.

* Pixar Immersive Exhibition: The immersive exhibition dedicated to the famous animation studio Pixar will remain in Barcelona until January 2025. This exhibition is ideal for filling both Christmas and Three Kings' Day with excitement. With 13 film sets, each corner of the exhibition recreates iconic moments from films such as Toy Story, UP and Coco, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the most emblematic worlds of Pixar. It is a perfect experience for families and lovers of animated film.

Vincci Gala 4*, located in the heart of Barcelona, allows its guests to discover the city on foot, with unrivalled proximity to Plaça Catalunya and the main attractions. The hotel offers an elegant design inspired by Barcelona modernism, with touches of art and sophistication in every space, as well as its outstanding Babou restaurant, where every bite is a delight.

Vincci Gala 4*

Vincci Marítimo 4*, close to the beach and the port, offers a relaxed atmosphere with easy access to seaside walks and coastal leisure areas. The hotel is ideal for those who wish to enjoy Barcelona from a more relaxed perspective, with a modern design and views of the Mediterranean.

Vincci Marítimo 4*

Vincci Mae 4*, located on the Diagonal, combines style and comfort in the city centre. The hotel has a terrace with panoramic views of Barcelona, ideal for relaxing and enjoying an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere. Don't miss the delicious stew on Fridays in the West Food & Bar restaurant, perfect for the winter season.

Vincci Mae 4*

Vincci Bit 4* stands out for its urban style and its contemporary design, with murals by local artists that fill every corner with life. Located in a dynamic area, the hotel is perfect for those looking for a space with personality and an authentic connection to the art and culture of Barcelona.

Vincci Bit 4*

Malaga



In December, Malaga is filled with colour and light, with the spectacle of Larios Street as one of the great attractions of Christmas in Malaga. The Christmas lights, each year with a unique design, create a festive atmosphere that extends to the markets and special events of the season. In addition, Malaga offers live nativity scenes, such as the one in Malaga Park, where actors and musicians recreate the nativity scene in a traditional way, creating an authentic and emotional experience.

Málaga's gastronomy at this time includes typical dishes that combine the freshness of local ingredients with the flavour of traditions, such as cod in the Biscayan style and pestiños, fried sweets covered in honey, perfect for sharing with family and friends. A curiosity of Málaga during the December long weekend is the presence of the zambomba, a traditional instrument that accompanies Christmas songs in the squares and streets, uniting locals and visitors in a festive and joyful celebration, where the Christmas spirit is lived to the fullest.

What not to miss on your visit to Malaga over the long weekend in December

* Malaga Botanical Garden Christmas Show: La Concepción Botanical-Historical Garden in Málaga, one of the most emblematic natural spaces in the city, will once again host its traditional Christmas light and music show. This year, the event is titled “Illusion, Christmas has many faces, but only one heart.” The light show will begin on November 29 and run until January 6, allowing attendees to choose between different time slots from 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with passes every 30 minutes. This event is a perfect opportunity to enjoy a magical experience in a unique natural setting.

* Christmas concerts and zambombas: The Cervantes and Echegaray theatres in Malaga will be the main venues for numerous Christmas concerts and zambombas during the month of December. The 'Christmas at the Cervantes and Echegaray' programme will include performances by renowned artists such as Miguel Poveda, Encarni Navarro, María José Santiago, José Mercé and Joana Jiménez. In addition, shows such as 'De tal palo', 'Los tres reyes' and the extraordinary New Year's concert will be presented. These events offer an excellent opportunity to enjoy Christmas music and traditions in a festive and cultural atmosphere.

Vincci Selección Posada del Patio 5*, located in the centre of Malaga, offers a luxury experience in a building that preserves vestiges of the Arab wall. Its spaces combine history and comfort, and its Entremuros restaurant offers a cuisine that stands out for its use of fresh products and local flavours.

Vincci Selección Posada del Patio 5*

Vincci Larios Diez 4*, located on the emblematic Larios Street, allows guests to be in the heart of Malaga's Christmas, with direct access to the light show and seasonal markets. This hotel combines elegance and comfort, ideal for those who wish to enjoy Malaga from a privileged location. In addition to tasting the exquisite dishes of its El Taller de Larios 10 restaurant.

Vincci Larios Diez 4*

Vincci Selección Aleysa 5*, an exclusive boutique hotel facing the sea, is the perfect refuge for a peaceful and sophisticated stay. Offering personalised services and an intimate atmosphere, this hotel invites its guests to relax and enjoy the December long weekend in a privileged and charming setting.

Vincci Selección Aleysa 5*

In each of these cities, Vincci Hotels offers more than just accommodation: an invitation to experience Christmas from a local, authentic and enriching perspective. With every detail designed to offer maximum comfort and service that combines tradition and innovation, your stay in Bilbao, Barcelona or Malaga will be the start of a magical holiday season, filled with unforgettable moments and an authentic Vincci experience.

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