If you find yourself in Barcelona for more than a few days, consider taking a day trip outside the city to see another side of Catalonia. Just beyond the capital lies a world of natural beauty and historical wonders waiting to be explored, from mountaintop monasteries and Roman amphitheatres to medieval walls and a surrealist’s theatre-museum. Thanks to Barcelona’s extensive rail network, plus a bus route or two, you can reach many fantastic places in a couple of hours or less, making them ideal escapes from the hustle and bustle of the big city. But with so many spots to choose from, it can be daunting to decide which one to fit into your busy schedule.
I spent the summer in Barcelona, and I was lucky enough to spend my weekends making these little day trips. I’ve narrowed the list down to my absolute favourites. Each one lends itself to a different kind of traveller, whether you’re drawn to art, history, architecture or the sea, so choose the one that best suits your intentions!
About an hour by train from Barcelona, Montserrat is a breathtaking mountain range renowned for its unique rock formations and dramatic peaks. High on its rugged slopes lies the range’s spiritual centre: the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat, founded in the 11th century.
From Barcelona’s Plaça d’Espanya, the R5 train takes about an hour to reach the base of the mountain, and from there you have two ways up. The most impressive is the Aeri de Montserrat, the yellow cable car that has swung across the valley since 1930. It launches you into the air for an aerial view of the range, a different perspective on its geological formations and a thrilling experience. Get off at the Montserrat-Aeri stop to board it. You can also ride the Cremallera, the rack railway that leaves from the next stop, Monistrol de Montserrat. I found the cable car the most direct way up, and at about five minutes it is the quickest. It closes for maintenance for a few weeks each winter, so check before you go.
There are so many things to do here that you’ll want to arrive as early as possible to fit in every activity.
Montserrat is a hiker’s paradise, with well-marked trails for every level. Even if you only want a short, easy walk, there are options that give you a hint of the rugged terrain and winding pathways opening onto breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside and the iconic rock formations. One of the shorter hikes, about half an hour each way, takes you to the Cross of Sant Miquel, which offers a stunning panorama over the monastery and the landscape beyond. It’s a peaceful spot for reflection and for taking in the natural beauty. For higher trails, the Sant Joan funicular climbs to the Pla de les Taràntules.
The Montserrat Monastery, also known as the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, is a religious and cultural landmark. Walking into the square before the basilica, you can marvel at an architectural story that spans several centuries. The abbey was founded in 1025, but Napoleon’s troops destroyed much of it in 1811, and it was rebuilt in the 19th and 20th centuries. The basilica itself was begun in the 16th century, and its Plateresque Revival façade dates to 1901. The stone buildings blend harmoniously with the surrounding landscape.
The Basilica of Montserrat is filled with stained glass, ornate altars and religious artwork. The most important thing to see inside is the famous Black Madonna statue, “La Moreneta,” the patron saint of Catalonia and a major pilgrimage site. Seated above the altar, she is a wooden Romanesque carving dated to the late 12th century, and pilgrims line up to touch the orb in her outstretched hand.
The statue is called “La Moreneta,” or “the little dark one,” because of the dark colour of the Virgin Mary’s skin and that of the infant Jesus, giving them their distinctive appearance. The darkening is attributed to changes in the varnish over the centuries. According to legend, in the year 880, shepherd children saw a bright light and heard heavenly music on the mountain. The light led them to a cave, where they found a statue of the Virgin and Child. The statue you see today dates from the 12th century, so it is not the one of the legend. A monastery wasn’t founded on the mountain until 1025, although chapels had stood here since the late 9th century. Pilgrims have been drawn to the mountain to venerate the statue since the 12th century, and numerous miracles have been attributed to it, further strengthening its significance.
Check the schedule when you arrive to find out when the Escolania de Montserrat will be performing. The Escolania, or boys’ choir, is one of the oldest in Europe, and documents attest to a religious and music school at Montserrat as far back as the 14th century. The choir school’s mission was to provide a musical education to young boys while also serving the liturgical needs of the monastery. These young choristers, known as “escolans,” are between 9 and 14 years old, come from all over Catalonia and receive a comprehensive musical education at the monastery. The choir usually sings the Salve and the Virolai in the basilica at 1 p.m. from Monday to Friday and at noon on Sundays and holidays, which is a highlight for visitors to the monastery. You can book a place for the 1 p.m. performance through the abbey.
*Note: the boys are on summer vacation until about August 20, and the choir does not sing on Saturdays.
I was surprised to find the Museum of Montserrat at the top of the mountain. Despite its smaller size, it is a powerhouse of renowned artists, with works by El Greco, Caravaggio, Picasso, Dalí and Monet. In addition, you’ll find a collection of religious art, including paintings, sculptures and liturgical goldsmith work. Many of these pieces are of exceptional quality and historical significance.
Every day, farmers from the surrounding countryside come up to the monastery to sell traditional Catalan delicacies. You can find delicious local cheeses, honey and the region’s famous mató, a fresh cheese, sold by some of the most passionate growers.
Figueres is a charming town in northeastern Catalonia. While it has a well-preserved historic centre of narrow streets, historic buildings and picturesque squares, most visitors come mainly to have their minds blown inside the Dalí Theatre-Museum.
From Barcelona-Sants station, you can hop on one of the high-speed Renfe trains, which reach Figueres-Vilafant station in just under an hour. The station sits on the edge of town, so allow a walk of roughly 20 to 25 minutes into the centre, or take a short taxi ride.
Famous surrealist artist Salvador Dalí was born in Figueres on May 11, 1904. Before his death, Dalí wanted to give something back to his hometown and took it upon himself to create the Dalí Theatre-Museum. He chose the ruins of the town’s old Municipal Theatre, which a fire had destroyed at the end of the Spanish Civil War in 1939. The building had a lot of meaning to the painter. The church where he was baptised stands right opposite, his very first exhibition had been held in the theatre’s foyer, and he was such a theatrical painter that building his museum on those grounds seemed most fitting.
The museum opened on September 28, 1974, and showcases the artist’s whimsical and imaginative works, including paintings, sculptures and installations that challenge our reality. Its rooms carry you through Dalí’s surreal imagination, and he designed even the tiniest details himself. Tickets can sell out in high season, so book ahead.
A glass geodesic dome rises above the old stage inside the former theatre. The dome lets light pour into the room, creating the most ethereal effect. Beneath the stage lies a crypt, and this is Dalí’s final resting place.
One of the museum’s highlights is the Mae West Room, where a living room set is designed to look like the face of the famous actress. Viewed from a specific platform, the furniture forms her features, with the lips sofa and the eyes of the fireplace.
Throughout the museum, you’ll find many iconic paintings by Dalí, but my favourite is Galatea of the Spheres. This loving portrait of Dalí’s wife, Gala, is composed entirely of fragmented spheres. It was painted in 1952, and today it sits on an easel that once belonged to the French painter Meissonier, in the room known as the Wind Palace.
Another iconic part of the museum is the Wind Palace itself, the first work installed in the Theatre-Museum, painted on the ceiling above the room where Dalí first exhibited. It is just one example of the profoundly personal nature of this museum.
After exploring the museum, take a self-guided stroll through the charming streets of Figueres, where you’ll find quaint cafés and shops. It’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the essence of Dalí’s birthplace and gain insight into the life of this renowned surrealist artist.
Girona is a picturesque medieval city in the Catalonia region of northeastern Spain. It is renowned for its well-preserved historic centre, characterized by winding cobblestone streets, ancient stone buildings and a rich cultural heritage. Girona also gained international recognition when it appeared in the popular TV series “Game of Thrones,” where its old town stood in for the fictional city of Braavos. The grand staircase outside the cathedral served as the exterior of the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing.
From Barcelona, a high-speed train takes as little as 40 minutes to transport you to the medieval wonderland of Girona. If you prefer a regional train, allow about an hour and twenty minutes.
Girona boasts a history that dates back to Roman times, and its medieval roots are still very much evident in its architecture and layout. The city has been shaped by the Romans, the Franks and a Jewish community that lived here until 1492, each leaving a mark on its culture and architecture. The Old Town (Barri Vell) is the heart of Girona, its eastern edge bordered by ancient walls. It is a labyrinth of narrow streets, plazas and historic buildings. Visitors can explore the Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of the best-preserved in Europe, and the Museum of Jewish History, housed in a former medieval synagogue.
The cathedral is an iconic symbol of Girona and a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It features a grand Baroque staircase of about 90 steps and a remarkable nave nearly 23 metres wide, the widest Gothic nave in the world. Look for the Romanesque Charlemagne Tower, a survivor of the earlier church, among the bell towers that crown the skyline.
For panoramic views of the town and the surrounding countryside, walk the Passeig de la Muralla, the medieval walls that run along the eastern side of the Old Town. From the ramparts you look over the cathedral, the pastel-coloured houses along the river and, on clear days, the distant Pyrenees. The walk is free.
For those craving dramatic coastal scenery, the Costa Brava is a day-trip paradise. The region is famous for its rugged cliffs, hidden coves and crystal-clear waters. One of the best towns to visit on the Costa Brava from Barcelona is Tossa de Mar, a picturesque coastal town renowned for its Mediterranean beauty and its historical charm.
Tossa has no train station, so the easiest way to get there is the Line 2 bus from Barcelona’s Estació del Nord. The bus takes about an hour and twenty minutes and stops at Tossa’s bus station, on the edge of town. From there, the Avinguda del Pelegrí leads down to the beach in about ten minutes.
Tossa de Mar is home to an exceptionally well-preserved medieval old town, the only fortified medieval town still standing on the Catalan coast. The historic centre is surrounded by ancient walls and towers, and it’s a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, charming squares and centuries-old buildings. The most famous feature of the old town is the Vila Vella, a fortified area with watchtowers and battlements dating back to the 12th century, with its walls rebuilt in the 14th.
Hiking
Surrounding Tossa de Mar are scenic hiking trails that lead along the cliffs and offer breathtaking views of the Mediterranean. The Camí de Ronda coastal path is a popular choice for hikers, and the northern stretch leads to coves such as Cala Bona and Cala Pola.
The main thing that brings most people to Tossa de Mar is the beautiful beaches, each with its unique character. The main beach, Platja Gran, is a wide crescent of golden sand with crystal-clear waters, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. Nearby, you’ll find Platja d’es Codolar, a small cove tucked beneath the walls of the Vila Vella.
You can stroll along the Passeig de Mar, a beautiful seaside promenade lined with restaurants and cafés. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk, enjoying the sea breeze and savouring local cuisine.
One of the best things to enjoy while visiting a seaside town is its dining options! Seafood restaurants serve fresh catches of the day combined with traditional Catalan flavours. Don’t miss the opportunity to try regional dishes like paella and seafood stews, including the local specialty, cim i tomba, a fisherman’s stew of fish, potatoes and garlic mayonnaise.
Sitges is a coastal gem known for its beautiful beaches, charming streets and lively energy. Spend your day lounging on the sandy shores, exploring the historic old town or savouring delicious seafood at a local restaurant.
From Barcelona-Sants station, you can hop on an R2 Sud train that reaches Sitges in 35 to 45 minutes. Make sure it says “Sud” on the departure board, since the R2 Nord trains head the other way.
Sitges is famous for its sandy beaches. Some of the most popular include Platja de la Fragata, Platja de la Ribera and Platja de Sant Sebastià. You can relax on the golden sands and swim in the Mediterranean Sea. But for me, the favourite part of a visit to Sitges is a leisurely stroll along the Passeig Marítim, a scenic promenade that runs for about two and a half kilometres along the coast. It’s perfect for enjoying sea views, people-watching and stopping at beachfront cafés.
Many people don’t spend enough time exploring the town’s historic and architectural heritage. Don’t miss the Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, an iconic 17th-century landmark with its distinctive bell tower, set on a promontory above the sea. The Maricel Palace and the Cau Ferrat Museum, once the home and workshop of the artist Santiago Rusiñol, are also worth a visit to appreciate art and history.
For history buffs, Tarragona is a must-visit destination. This ancient Roman city boasts a wealth of archaeological treasures, stunning Mediterranean beaches and a blend of modern and ancient charm. The city’s seaside location adds an extra layer of charm to your day trip.
Head to Barcelona-Sants station, where you can board a regional train that reaches Tarragona in just over an hour. High-speed trains are faster, but they arrive at a station outside the city.
Tarragona was once an important Roman settlement, known as Tárraco, and its historical legacy is evident in the well-preserved Roman ruins throughout the city. The most iconic site is the Archaeological Ensemble of Tárraco, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000, which includes the Roman walls, a circus and various archaeological remains that offer a glimpse into the city’s ancient past. Many of the sites close on Mondays, so check opening days before you go.
The most impressive of all the Roman sites in Tarragona is the Roman Amphitheatre. It was used for gladiator contests and other public spectacles, and visitors can explore the well-preserved structure, which sits right beside the sea and offers panoramic views of the Mediterranean.
Tarragona’s historic centre is a charming labyrinth of narrow cobblestone streets, medieval squares and centuries-old buildings. The Cathedral of Tarragona, a beautiful Romanesque and Gothic structure, highlights the old town.
Be sure to head to the Rambla Nova, a bustling, tree-lined promenade that ends at the Balcó del Mediterrani viewpoint. This popular spot is great for shopping, dining and people-watching.
Tarragona boasts several picturesque beaches, including Platja del Miracle and Platja de l’Arrabassada. These sandy shores are ideal for sunbathing and swimming, with stunning views of the sea.
Hopefully, this post has inspired you to plan your next Catalan day trip! From the sacred heights of Montserrat and the enchanting medieval streets of Girona to the artistic wonders of Figueres, the Roman ruins of Tarragona and the tranquil beaches of Sitges and Tossa de Mar, these picture-perfect getaways each reveal a unique facet of Catalonia’s rich cultural tapestry. Whichever you choose, you’ll come home from the city’s hustle and bustle with a new appreciation for the art, history and architecture just beyond Barcelona.
If you're in Barcelona for more than a few days, it's worth spending at least…
When it comes to long-haul flights in economy (which, let’s face it, is where most…
I'll admit I'm biased, but Christmas might be my favourite time of year to be…
Mexico City is the kind of place where you can stand on a plaza built…
Las Vegas is loud, bright and built to separate you from your money. But a…
Travel culture often treats late nights as the real experience: rooftop bars, club queues, hostel…
This website uses cookies.