Montserrat Monastery tickets

4.4(13.6K Ratings)



Montserrat Monastery in Catalonia near Barcelona
Facade of the Montserrat Monastery
Virgin of Montserrat inside the Monastery
Visitors on a Montserrat Monastery Experience with Audio Guide
View of Montserrat Monastery
View of Cruz de San Miguel and Montserrat Monastery
Montserrat Monastery in Catalonia near Barcelona
Facade of the Montserrat Monastery
Virgin of Montserrat inside the Monastery
Visitors on a Montserrat Monastery Experience with Audio Guide
View of Montserrat Monastery
View of Cruz de San Miguel and Montserrat Monastery
Montserrat Monastery in Catalonia near Barcelona
Facade of the Montserrat Monastery
Virgin of Montserrat inside the Monastery
Visitors on a Montserrat Monastery Experience with Audio Guide
View of Montserrat Monastery
View of Cruz de San Miguel and Montserrat Monastery
4.2(373)

Montserrat Experience Tickets with Audio Guide

from
€18
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
  • Visit the historic Montserrat Monastery and Museum, a true symbol of Catalan heritage, and enjoy a timed entry ticket to see the famous Black Madonna.
  • Nestled in the Conserolla Mountains, soak up exquisite views from the Monastery and explore on your own with a multilingual audio guide, map, and informative booklet.
  • Marvel at the 12th century Black Madonna or La Moreneta and learn the significance of the shpere she is holding in her hand the child holding a pine.
  • Enjoy access to the museum and audio-visual room where you’ll see archaeological and liturgical exhibits and collections of paintings by world-famous artists like Dali, Caravaggio, El Greco, Monet, and more.
  • Learn about the Monastery’s rich, tumultuous history as you stroll around the complex, and upgrade your ticket to hear the angelic voices of the Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir!
  • Visit the historic Montserrat Monastery and Museum, a true symbol of Catalan heritage, and enjoy a timed entry ticket to see the famous Black Madonna.
  • Nestled in the Conserolla Mountains, soak up exquisite views from the Monastery and explore on your own with a multilingual audio guide, map, and informative booklet.
  • Marvel at the 12th century Black Madonna or La Moreneta and learn the significance of the shpere she is holding in her hand the child holding a pine.
  • Enjoy access to the museum and audio-visual room where you’ll see archaeological and liturgical exhibits and collections of paintings by world-famous artists like Dali, Caravaggio, El Greco, Monet, and more.
  • Learn about the Monastery’s rich, tumultuous history as you stroll around the complex, and upgrade your ticket to hear the angelic voices of the Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir!

Inclusions

  • Timed entry tickets to the Black Madonna La Moreneta
  • Entry to the Museum of Montserrat
  • Entry to the Montserrat audiovisual space
  • Audio guide for the Basilica and La Moreneta in Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, and Japanese
  • Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir performance (optional)
  • Map
  • Informative booklet
  • Tip: On a bright and pleasant day, plan a picnic on top of the mountain as you soak in the spiritual vibes of Montserrat.
  • During booking, the time slot you select is for your timed entrance to visit La Moreneta. All other parts of your visit can be done at your own pace.
  • The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to guests with disabilities but wheelchair users won’t be able to get right up to the Black Madonna.
  • The audio guide covers the Basilica and La Moreneta. It’s available in Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, and Japanese.
  • Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
  • Mass at the Basilica takes place Mon to Sat at 11am and on Sun and holidays at 9:30am.
  • Note that the following items are not allowed: oversized luggage.
  • The Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir takes place from Monday to Friday at 1pm.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Statue of Madonna Von Montserrat inside Montserrat Monastery
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tourists using audio guide inside Sagrada Familia
Montserrat Monastery cog wheel train
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Statue of Madonna Von Montserrat inside Montserrat Monastery
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tourists using audio guide inside Sagrada Familia
Montserrat Monastery cog wheel train
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Statue of Madonna Von Montserrat inside Montserrat Monastery
Tour of Montserrat from Barcelona by Train and Rack Railway with Audio Guide-5
Tourists using audio guide inside Sagrada Familia
Montserrat Monastery cog wheel train
4.2(220)

Montserrat Experience Tickets with Audio Guide and Train Tickets

from
€46.80
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
Transfers included
  • Sit back and relax with round-trip train transfers from Barcelona to Montserrat and get an audio guide, map, and informative booklet to kickstart your tour of Montserrat.
  • With a timed entry ticket, revere the image of the Virgin of Montserrat, housed in the Basilica of Montserrat, a gothic monastery with splendid golden accents adorning the domes.
  • Showcasing the history of the mountain, monastery, and sanctuary, the Audiovisual Space Montserrat Portes Endins exhibition is a must-visit.
  • The Museum of Montserrat houses works of art by artists like Monet, Picasso, Dali, and more, with archaeological materials from the Near East to amaze you.
  • Upgrade your ticket and be a part of the liturgical celebrations and community prayers at the Basilica with Escolanía de Montserrat, one of the oldest schools of music in Europe.
  • Sit back and relax with round-trip train transfers from Barcelona to Montserrat and get an audio guide, map, and informative booklet to kickstart your tour of Montserrat.
  • With a timed entry ticket, revere the image of the Virgin of Montserrat, housed in the Basilica of Montserrat, a gothic monastery with splendid golden accents adorning the domes.
  • Showcasing the history of the mountain, monastery, and sanctuary, the Audiovisual Space Montserrat Portes Endins exhibition is a must-visit.
  • The Museum of Montserrat houses works of art by artists like Monet, Picasso, Dali, and more, with archaeological materials from the Near East to amaze you.
  • Upgrade your ticket and be a part of the liturgical celebrations and community prayers at the Basilica with Escolanía de Montserrat, one of the oldest schools of music in Europe.

Inclusions

  • Round-trip train/cog wheel railway transfers from Barcelona
  • Entry to Audiovisual Space Montserrat Portes Endins
  • Entry to the Museum of Montserrat
  • Audio guide for the Basilica and La Moreneta in Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, and Japanese
  • Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir performance (optional)
  • Map
  • Informative booklet
  • Timed entry tickets to the Black Madonna La Moreneta
  • Tip: As you explore Montserrat, don't forget to visit the different viewpoints which offer spectacular views of the region.
  • Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
  • During booking, the time slot you select is for your timed entrance to visit La Moreneta. All other parts of your visit can be done at your own pace.
  • The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to guests with disabilities but wheelchair users won’t be able to get right up to the Black Madonna.
  • The Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir takes place from Monday to Friday at 1pm.
  • These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Tour guide and group in front of a statue on a guided tour of Montserrat Monastery
Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
inside view of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
Man taking photographs inside Montserrat Monastery on a guided tour
Virgin of Montserrat statue in Montserrat Monastery
courtyard of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
people with guide in Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
People looking at the view from Montserrat View Point
cog wheel train in Montserrat Monastary
Tour guide and group in front of a statue on a guided tour of Montserrat Monastery
Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
inside view of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
Man taking photographs inside Montserrat Monastery on a guided tour
Virgin of Montserrat statue in Montserrat Monastery
courtyard of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
people with guide in Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
People looking at the view from Montserrat View Point
cog wheel train in Montserrat Monastary
Tour guide and group in front of a statue on a guided tour of Montserrat Monastery
Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
inside view of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
Man taking photographs inside Montserrat Monastery on a guided tour
Virgin of Montserrat statue in Montserrat Monastery
courtyard of Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
people with guide in Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey
People looking at the view from Montserrat View Point
cog wheel train in Montserrat Monastary
4.5(1.2K)

Montserrat Half-Day Tour with Transfers & Cog-Wheel Train

from
€59
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
4 hr. 30 min. - 5 hr. 30 min.
Transfers included
  • With round-trip transfers from Barcelona, head on up the cog-wheel train ride and soak in the views of the Montserrat mountain.
  • The name Montserrat means 'jagged or serrated mountain' because of the sharp-looking peaks. Get to know more such interesting tidbits from your bilingual tour guide.
  • Home to the legend of the Black Madonna with timed entry tickets, and learn about the miraculous apparition as you marvel at the famous carving.
  • Immerse yourself in the audiovisual exhibition 'Espai Audiovisual Montserrat,' and hear engaging tales about the history and culture of Montserrat.
  • Tailor this tour to suit your needs by either embarking on a morning or afternoon tour.
  • With round-trip transfers from Barcelona, head on up the cog-wheel train ride and soak in the views of the Montserrat mountain.
  • The name Montserrat means 'jagged or serrated mountain' because of the sharp-looking peaks. Get to know more such interesting tidbits from your bilingual tour guide.
  • Home to the legend of the Black Madonna with timed entry tickets, and learn about the miraculous apparition as you marvel at the famous carving.
  • Immerse yourself in the audiovisual exhibition 'Espai Audiovisual Montserrat,' and hear engaging tales about the history and culture of Montserrat.
  • Tailor this tour to suit your needs by either embarking on a morning or afternoon tour.

Inclusions

  • Montserrat cogwheel train ride
  • AC coach transfers from Barcelona
  • Half-day tour of Montserrat
  • English and Spanish-speaking guide
  • Entry to Basilica of Montserrat
  • Timed entry tickets to the Black Madonna La Moreneta
  • Local liquor tasting
  • Entry to Espai Audiovisual Montserrat
  • Radio guide system
  • Tip: Treat yourself to Mató, a type of fresh cheese that is used to make a traditional dessert, meil i mató, which is made of cheese and honey.
  • During booking, the time slot you select is for your timed entrance to visit La Moreneta. All other parts of your visit can be done at your own pace.
  • The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to guests with disabilities but wheelchair users won’t be able to get right up to the Black Madonna.
  • Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
Early-Morning Montserrat Mountain Tour with Round-Trip Transport from Barcelona-1
4.5(2.3K)

Montserrat Monastery Guided Tour with Bus Transfers

from
€44.80
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
5 hr.
Guided tour
  • Journey to the holy Monastery nestled amongst the cliffs and rock spires of Montserrat with round-trip bus transfers from Barcelona to embark on a guided tour.
  • Meet your expert local guide as you board a comfortable air-conditioned bus from Barcelona which will also take you back.
  • Get a chance to independently visit the famous Romanesque statue of The Black Madonna in the basilica, with timed entry tickets.
  • Spend some time hiking through the mountains, taking a cable car ride, or visiting the local museum post your guided tour.
  • Treat your tastebuds to a range of culinary specialties like herbal liquors, cheese, and cured meats at stalls outside the monastery.
  • Journey to the holy Monastery nestled amongst the cliffs and rock spires of Montserrat with round-trip bus transfers from Barcelona to embark on a guided tour.
  • Meet your expert local guide as you board a comfortable air-conditioned bus from Barcelona which will also take you back.
  • Get a chance to independently visit the famous Romanesque statue of The Black Madonna in the basilica, with timed entry tickets.
  • Spend some time hiking through the mountains, taking a cable car ride, or visiting the local museum post your guided tour.
  • Treat your tastebuds to a range of culinary specialties like herbal liquors, cheese, and cured meats at stalls outside the monastery.

Inclusions

  • Round-trip transfers from Barcelona
  • Full-day tour of Montserrat
  • English & Spanish-speaking expert guide
  • Entry to the Basilica of Montserrat

Exclusions

  • Black Madonna attraction visit (this is independent of the guided tour)
  • Tip: Enjoy Les Vespres, the prayer of the Vespres, sung by the monks and the Escolania, the Boys’ Choir at the holy Monastery.
  • Wheelchairs and motorized scooters cannot be accommodated on the group tours since access to lifts and ramps is limited.
  • Visiting the Black Madonna is not part of the guided tour, it's independent.
  • Group sizes are restricted to 25 people.
  • The Basilica in Montserrat expects visitors to follow a dress code. Flip-flops, tank tops, and shorts are not allowed. Knees and shoulders must be covered for both men and women.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
tourists with guide during Montserrat Guided Tour
Montserrat Monastary
Guide sharing information with group of visitors at Montserrat Monastery
Entrance of the Montserrat Monastery
Church of Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery, Spain
couple having lunch during Montserrat Guided Tour
people having lunch in Montserrat
woman in cog wheel train during Montserrat Guided Tour
tourists with guide during Montserrat Guided Tour
Montserrat Monastary
Guide sharing information with group of visitors at Montserrat Monastery
Entrance of the Montserrat Monastery
Church of Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery, Spain
couple having lunch during Montserrat Guided Tour
people having lunch in Montserrat
woman in cog wheel train during Montserrat Guided Tour
tourists with guide during Montserrat Guided Tour
Montserrat Monastary
Guide sharing information with group of visitors at Montserrat Monastery
Entrance of the Montserrat Monastery
Church of Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery, Spain
couple having lunch during Montserrat Guided Tour
people having lunch in Montserrat
woman in cog wheel train during Montserrat Guided Tour
4.5(22)

Montserrat Full-Day Guided Tour with Transfers and Lunch

from
€79.95
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
8 hr.
Guided tour
  • Combine a gastronomical adventure with historic sightseeing as you explore the religious region of Montserrat.
  • Embark on a guided tour of the breathtaking countryside on a cogwheel train and immerse yourself in the beauty of magical mountains and landscapes with round-trip transfers from Barcelona.
  • Delve into the captivating history, intriguing facts, and captivating myths of the Monastery, as your expert guide shares their extensive knowledge during the tour.
  • Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the region by sampling delightful local wines and savoring traditional dishes that showcase the culinary richness of the area.
  • Customize your experience by selecting either the tempting tapas option or a delectable lunch, and savor a delightful meal that perfectly complements your tour.
  • Combine a gastronomical adventure with historic sightseeing as you explore the religious region of Montserrat.
  • Embark on a guided tour of the breathtaking countryside on a cogwheel train and immerse yourself in the beauty of magical mountains and landscapes with round-trip transfers from Barcelona.
  • Delve into the captivating history, intriguing facts, and captivating myths of the Monastery, as your expert guide shares their extensive knowledge during the tour.
  • Indulge in the exquisite flavors of the region by sampling delightful local wines and savoring traditional dishes that showcase the culinary richness of the area.
  • Customize your experience by selecting either the tempting tapas option or a delectable lunch, and savor a delightful meal that perfectly complements your tour.

Inclusions

  • Round-trip AC bus transfers from Barcelona
  • Professional, local, English-speaking guide
  • Cogwheel train ticket
  • Montserrat liquor and sweet pastry tasting
  • 3-course lunch with wine (optional)
  • Welcome drink & Tapas brunch (optional)
  • 3 exclusive wine tasting
  • Cheese platter
  • 3-course farmhouse lunch (optional)
  • 10:30am: Welcome
  • 10:45am: Starting the experience at Paseo de Gracia
  • 11:45am: Cable car to go up the mountain
  • 12:05pm: Learn the history of the monastery and visit the Basilica of Santa Maria de Montserrat
  • 1:45pm: Free time
  • 3:35pm: Lunch (optional)
  • 5:35pm: Bus back to Barcelona
  • 6:30pm: End of experience
  • Tip: Head inside the gift shop and get to taste cookies and goods from the nuns, as well as coques.
  • Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Tourists entering Montserrat Monastery
Entrance of the Montserrat Monastery
Statue of Madonna Von Montserrat inside Montserrat Monastery
Basilica at the Montserrat Monastery
Tourist boarding AC coach Bus during Transfer to Montserrat Monastery
View of Cruz de San Miguel and Montserrat Monastery
Tourists entering Montserrat Monastery
Entrance of the Montserrat Monastery
Statue of Madonna Von Montserrat inside Montserrat Monastery
Basilica at the Montserrat Monastery
Tourist boarding AC coach Bus during Transfer to Montserrat Monastery
View of Cruz de San Miguel and Montserrat Monastery
Tourists entering Montserrat Monastery
Entrance of the Montserrat Monastery
Statue of Madonna Von Montserrat inside Montserrat Monastery
Basilica at the Montserrat Monastery
Tourist boarding AC coach Bus during Transfer to Montserrat Monastery
View of Cruz de San Miguel and Montserrat Monastery
NEW

Montserrat Monastery Transfers

from
€39
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
5 hr.
Transfers included
  • Savour the tranquillity of Montserrat Monastery at sunrise. An air-conditioned bus whisks you away early in the morning to this spiritual haven, offering the best views of the break of dawn.
  • A tour leader accompanies you during the transfer, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience. So sit back and soak in the scenic ride on an air-conditioned bus.
  • Witness the majestic blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture at the Montserrat Monastery. This self-guided tour lets you explore the complex at your leisure and take in its historical grandeur.
  • Capture the panoramic views from atop Montserrat Mountain. Whether you choose to hike the trails or simply soak in the scenery, this experience ensures you connect with nature’s beauty.
  • Enjoy the unique flavor of the Monastery-made liquor. This traditional concoction is a bonus treat, adding a delightful finish to your visit. So, sip and enjoy the taste of tradition.
  • Savour the tranquillity of Montserrat Monastery at sunrise. An air-conditioned bus whisks you away early in the morning to this spiritual haven, offering the best views of the break of dawn.
  • A tour leader accompanies you during the transfer, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience. So sit back and soak in the scenic ride on an air-conditioned bus.
  • Witness the majestic blend of Gothic and Renaissance architecture at the Montserrat Monastery. This self-guided tour lets you explore the complex at your leisure and take in its historical grandeur.
  • Capture the panoramic views from atop Montserrat Mountain. Whether you choose to hike the trails or simply soak in the scenery, this experience ensures you connect with nature’s beauty.
  • Enjoy the unique flavor of the Monastery-made liquor. This traditional concoction is a bonus treat, adding a delightful finish to your visit. So, sip and enjoy the taste of tradition.

Inclusions

  • Round-trip transfers from the meeting point
  • Tour leader during the transfers

Exclusions

  • Entry to Montserrat Monastery
  • Guided tour of Montserrat Monastery
  • Tip: Keep your camera ready. The picturesque drive up to the Monastery is filled with photo opportunities.
  • Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
BarcelonaMontserrat Monastery

High above the Catalan countryside, where sky meets serrated peaks, resides a sanctuary of profound spiritual and artistic beauty. Montserrat Monastery, a masterpiece sculpted by nature and human devotion, is a pilgrimage for the soul. Its iconic silhouette, etched against the canvas of the sky, has inspired awe for centuries. Within its hallowed walls, history, faith, and art converge in a harmonious symphony, inviting visitors to embark on a journey of discovery and reflection.

For those captivated by the raw beauty of the earth, Montserrat offers a breathtaking spectacle. Its jagged peaks, cloaked in a mystical aura, stand as silent sentinels guarding the sprawling valley below. Here, one can lose themselves in the symphony of nature, where wind whispers through ancient pines and eagles soar on thermals.

Things to know before you book your Montserrat Monastery tickets

  • Remember that Montserrat Monastery has a strict dress code. Both men and women need to cover their shoulders and knees and flip-flops are not allowed.
  • If you're traveling from Barcelona, Montserrat monastery tickets, like the Montserrat Experience Tickets with Audio Guide and Train Tickets or the Montserrat Half-Day Tour with Transfers & Cog-Wheel Train, include round-trip train or coach transfers. This can save you the hassle of arranging your own transportation and ensure a comfortable ride with beautiful scenic views.
  • The abbey is open to tourists during specific hours. The best time to visit Montserrat monastery is when the monastery's world-renowned Boys Choir (the Escolania) performs, which is normally at 1pm and 6:45pm, Monday through Friday. The monastery is also accessible on weekends, albeit the Boys Choir does not perform.
  • Most tickets, such as the Montserrat Experience Tickets and the Montserrat Half-Day Tour, have a timed entry for visiting the Black Madonna. Plan your visit around this time slot and enjoy the flexibility to explore other parts of the Monastery at your own pace.
  • While the Monastery is largely accessible, wheelchair users may face restrictions, particularly when getting close to the Black Madonna. Be sure to check the specific accessibility details of your ticket, especially if someone in your group has mobility issues.
  • For a more informative visit, consider Montserrat Monastery tickets that include audio guides or guided tours. The Montserrat Experience Tickets offer an audio guide in multiple languages, which is great for understanding the history and significance of the site. Alternatively, the Montserrat Monastery Guided Tour with Bus Transfers provides a knowledgeable guide who can enrich your experience with interesting facts and stories.
  • Look at the cancellation policies before booking. Tickets like the Montserrat Full-Day Guided Tour with Transfers and Lunch offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before the tour starts, providing some peace of mind if your plans change.
  • Some tickets include special experiences like the Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir performance or local liquor tasting. These can add a unique touch to your visit. The Montserrat Experience Tickets offer the choir performance option, and the Montserrat Full-Day Guided Tour includes a delicious lunch and wine tasting.
  • Tickets to Montserrat Monastery can be purchased at the gate or online. To avoid long queues and the potential disappointment of tickets selling out, it's highly recommended to buy tickets in advance online. Purchasing tickets online also allows you to opt for tickets based on your preferences, such as guided tours, tickets with audio guides, and round-trip travel options.
  • Admission tickets with an audio guide to Montserrat Monastery start at €18. There are also options to purchase additional experiences like guided tours or round-trip travel options at an extra cost.

What to see at Montserrat Monastery

The Black Madonna

The spiritual centerpiece of Montserrat Monastery is the revered statue of the Black Madonna, also known as La Moreneta (Dark Virgin) due to the color of her face and hands. Pilgrims and visitors are drawn alike to this sacred icon of Virgin Mary holding baby Jesus and it is believed to have miraculous properties. The statue is housed in the Basilica of Montserrat and in 1881 was proclaimed the patroness of Catalonia.

Atrium

Once you enter Montserrat Monastery from the Plaza de Santa María, visitors are greeted by the atrium of the Basilica. This interior open-roofed courtyard showcases the facade of the Basilica adorned with depictions of the 12 apostles surrounding Jesus in the center. Each apostle is identifiable by a characteristic element of their life or death. You can also spot an iron sculpture of St Benedict here.

Crucifix of Montserrat

Within the basilica, you will find the Crucifix of Montserrat, an ivory sculpture depicting the crucified Christ. Attributed to the genius of Michelangelo, this 23-inch masterpiece adds a touch of artistic significance to the monastery. The sculpture, created between 1496 and 1498, stands at 58.5 cm high. It has been at the main altar of the basilica for around 70 years, showing just how important a figure it is at the Montserrat Monastery.

Escolania de Montserrat

Within Montserrat Monastery is the Escolania de Montserrat, one of Europe's oldest boys' choirs with written references dating back to the 14th century. Beyond its historical significance, the choir offers a captivating auditory experience, particularly during their performances of the "Virolai" (Montserrat anthem) in the basilica. You can witness the choir's renditions of the "Salve" and the "Virolai" at 1pm from Monday to Friday.

Plan your visit to Montserrat Monastery

Timings
Getting there
Accessibility
  • Basilica of Montserrat: Open daily from 7am to 8pm
  • Throne of Our Lady (Black Madonna): Open Monday to Sunday from 8am to 10:30am and 12pm to 6:15pm.
  • Museum of Montserrat: Open daily from 10am to 4:45pm (weekends until 5:45pm).

There are a few ways to get to Montserrat Monastery from Barcelona, Spain. The most popular option is to take the train and then the cable car or rack railway.

  • Train and Cable Car: This is the quickest and most scenic option. Take the R5 line from Plaça Espanya in Barcelona to Aeri de Montserrat. The journey by train takes approximately one hour and costs €6.15 one way (€12.30 for a round-trip ticket). Once you arrive at Aeri de Montserrat, you can take a cable car up to the monastery for stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
  • Train and Rack Railway: This is a slower option than the cable car, but it offers a more traditional experience. Take the R5 line from Plaça Espanya in Barcelona to Monistrol de Montserrat. The train journey takes about an hour. From Monistrol de Montserrat, you can take the cremallera (rack railway) up to the monastery.
  • While the funicular railways that take visitors to other areas of the mountain aren't accessible, the Cremallera rack railway, which is the main mode of transport to the monastery itself, is adapted for people with limited mobility. There are also accessible parking areas close to the monastery.
  • The monastery itself is largely wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators available in most areas. This includes the basilica, the museum shops, restaurants, and the post office.
  • A wheelchair lift is available to access the shrine where the Black Madonna statue is located. However, it’s important to note that this lift may be out of service occasionally due to maintenance.

Tips for visiting Montserrat Monastery

  • The Black Madonna is placed at a gold altar above the chapel. There are two lines here: one to enter the basilica and a much longer one to get up close to the Black Madonna for wish-granting requests. Make sure to choose the right line because waiting to see the Black Madonna can take hours!
  • The hike to Saint Michael's Cross starts behind the Santa Cova funicular at the sign marking St. Michael’s path. Follow the trail all the way to Saint Michael’s Cross without detouring to the hermitages or the Santa Cova cave where the statue was originally found. The uphill walk is harder on the way there than on the way back, but the entire route is very scenic.
  • At certain times, the abbey allows visitors. The best time to visit is when the monastery’s world-renowned Boys Choir, the Escolania, sings, usually at 1 pm and 6:45 pm, Monday to Friday. The monastery is also open on weekends, but the Boys Choir does not perform then.
  • Check the Forecast: Montserrat's weather can be unpredictable. Check the weather forecast before your visit to dress appropriately. Bring layers as temperatures can vary, especially if you're hiking. A lightweight, waterproof jacket is a good idea. Carry plenty of water, especially if you plan to hike. There are limited places to refill bottles along the trails.
  • Mató de Montserrat: This is a fresh cheese made from sheep or goat's milk, often served with honey. It's a local favorite and definitely worth a try. Coca de Montserrat: A traditional pastry that's perfect for a quick snack. Local Wine: The region has some excellent wines. Try a glass or two at a local restaurant or winery.
  • Although you might skip it on the hike, the Santa Cova Cave is where the statue of the Black Madonna was originally found. It’s a significant historical and religious site. The Montserrat Museum houses a collection of art and artifacts related to the abbey and the region. It’s a great place to learn more about the history of Montserrat.
  • To avoid crowds, especially for the Black Madonna, arrive early in the morning. Wear comfortable hiking shoes or sneakers, especially if you plan to explore the trails. While most places accept cards, it's always good to have some cash on hand for small purchases or places that might not accept cards.

Frequently asked questions about Montserrat Monastery

Can I hike in the Montserrat mountains?

Yes, the Montserrat mountain offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for different fitness levels. From leisurely strolls to challenging climbs, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Are there any safety precautions to be aware of while visiting Montserrat?

As with any outdoor activity, it's essential to take precautions. Wear appropriate footwear, stay hydrated, and follow marked trails. Be mindful of weather conditions, especially during summer when temperatures can rise.

Can I pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the monastery grounds?

Picnic areas are available within the monastery complex, allowing you to enjoy your packed lunch while taking in the beautiful surroundings.

Is Montserrat Monastery suitable for children?

Montserrat Monastery can be an enjoyable experience for children. There are interactive elements and activities designed to engage young visitors, making it a family-friendly destination

Are there any restrictions on photography inside the monastery?

Photography is generally permitted inside the monastery, but using flash photography or tripods might be restricted in certain areas, especially near religious artifacts. It's advisable to check for any specific guidelines upon entry.

Is Montserrat Monastery wheelchair accessible?

Most of Montserrat Monastery is wheelchair accessible, however there are certain parts that are not accessible by wheelchair.