While there’s tons to do in the city, you are missing out if you don’t experience one or more day trips from Barcelona. Getting outside of the city limits is a great way to better experience the culture and beauty of Spain. Here our six of our favorites day trips that are located two or less hours outside of Barcelona.
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1. Montserrat
Montserrat is a multi-peaked mountain range about 40 minutes outside of Barcelona. It is the home to the Benedictine Abbey of Sana Maria de Montserrat and is the home of 80 monks. It is a main pilgrimage site and symbol of Catalan identity and spirituality. You can visit the Abbey and admire the basilica and the famous La Moreneta statue of the Virgin Mary on site. The Montserrat Museum holds a variety of art and artifacts, from paintings by renowned artists to archeological and religious relics. Time your visit to include a performance in the basilica by the Escolania de Montserrat, one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe.
From the monastery, ride the Funicular de Sant Joan cable car to the top of the mountain. Here you will enjoy glorious views of the countryside. You can also visit the Sant Miquel Cross. Hiking trails to suit all levels are available throughout the Montserrat Nature Park which includes forests, meadows and stunning rock formations.
Logistics
Located right outside the city, Montserrat should definitely be on your list of day trips from Barcelona. Despite it’s proximity, however, it takes about two hours to reach by public transportation. Group tour, renting a car, or taking a taxi is the best way to visit. Plan to spend 3-4 hours in Montserrat depending on what you want to do.
2. Girona
Girona is a charming city is about 60 miles away from Barcelona. It is home to an old town with narrow medieval streets, colorful houses, and old city walls. You might recognize it from Game of Thrones where it served primarily as Braavos. Start your visit in the Historic Old Town and visit the stunning gothic Girona Cathedral with one of the widest naves in the world.
Visit the Jewish Quarter, which is one of the best preserved in Europe. Enjoy wandering through the medieval buildings and take some time to view the synagogue remains. Also don’t miss the 12th century Arab Baths to get a better understanding of the city’s Moorish past. And make sure to walk across the Eiffel Bridge for views of the colorful houses on the River Onyar.
There are plenty of museums to visit in the city as well. No matter if you are interested in art, history, culture, archeology, architecture or cinema, Girona has a museum for you.
Logistics
Girona takes a bit over an hour to travel to by car but three hours via public transportation. It is best visited via private car or group tour. Most tours combine it with Costa Brava Beach, Figueres, or wine tasting. But if you want to experience the best of Girona, rent a car or take a taxi so that you can spend 6-7 hours there.
3. Costa Brava
The costal region of Costa Brava features some of the most picturesque beaches in Spain. If you love the ocean, Costa Brava is best place on this list of day trips from Barcelona for you! You can find both secluded spots or exciting beach resorts along the coast, as well as charming fishing villages. Enjoy the dramatic cliffs, hidden coves, and views of the crystal clear waters by walking part of the Cami de Ronda scenic costal path along the Mediterranean Sea.
Logistics
Costa Brava is less than two hours away from Barcelona by car. It is best visited along with Girona on a group tour. You can spend several days in this region. But on a day tour, you are likely only to spend about four hours enjoying a seafood lunch, brief walking tour of a medieval village, and time to frolic on the beach at a fishing village.
4. Figueres
Figueres is the birthplace and final resting place of surrealist artist Salvador Dali. The main attraction in town is the Dali Theatre-Museum. Designed by Dali himself, it’s a feast for the eyes and holds the most extensive collection of his works in the world.
After visiting the museum, take some time to explore the city of Figueres. The historic old town includes historical architecture, cobbled streets, and bustling markets. Located on the edge of town, the 18th century Sant Ferran Castle defensive fortress is also a must-do.
Logistics
Like many of these day trips from Barcelona, Figueres is best visited by private car or group tour. Group tours combine it with Girona or Costa Brava.
5. Tarragona
If you love all things Roman, don’t miss adding Tarragona to your list of day trips from Barcelona! This ancient city has well-preserved Roman ruins and is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit ancient Roman walls, an amphitheater, and aqueduct to learn about city’s Roman heritage. Also explore the Tarraco Archaeological Site where you can find the remains of an ancient Roman city with a Forum, Praetorium, and Roman Circus.
Fast forwarded in time a bit by wandering through medieval Tarragona’s Old Town. You can enjoy the narrow streets, medieval architecture, and visit landmarks like the Tarragona Cathedral. Climb the city walls for panoramic views of the city and the sea. Cap off your visit with some time at a popular beach such as Playa del Miracle, Playa de la Arrabassada, or Playa Llarga.
Logistics
Finally we have an easy place to get to on this list of day trips from Barcelona! Tarragona is about 1.5 hours away by private car or public transportation. So you can get there on your own and spend the entire day enjoying the town.
6. Sitges
Only about 25 miles from Barcelona, this coastal town is a great place to visit if you are interested in beautiful beaches, art museums and galleries, and a quaint Old Town. Enjoy walking along the seafront promenade taking in the fresh air and scenic coast. Take some time to enjoy sun and sand at a popular beach such as Playa de la Ribera, Playa de San Sebastián, or Playa de la Fragata.
Sitges is home to several art museums such as Cau Ferrat Museum, Maricel Museum, and La Fundació Stämpfli. If you like historic houses, visit the Romantic Museum Can Llopis and Palau de Maricel. Film buffs should time their visit to coincide with the International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia in October.
Logistics
The absolute easiest place to get to from Barcelona is Sitges. Public transportation is the easiest way to get there and takes less than 45 minutes. Upon arrival, plan to spend a few hours visiting the main sites and more time if you want to visit the beach.
What tops your list of day trips from Barcelona?
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