Escape the bustling charm of Barcelona and embark on a day trip to unveil the diverse wonders of Catalonia. From the medieval streets of Girona to the surreal landscapes of Montserrat, each destination paints a unique portrait of Spain's rich history and natural beauty. Whether you want to visit Dalí's Figueres or the shores of Sitges, the vicinity of Barcelona offers a variety of experiences. Join us on a journey beyond the city limits, where ancient history, artistic masterpieces, and scenic landscapes converge to create memorable day trips that complement the vibrant spirit of Barcelona.

Top Day Trips from Barcelona

Montserrat

Travel Time: 1 hour 10 mins

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Montserrat means 'serrated mountains' and this mountain is home to the revered Montserrat Monastery. Spectacular views and opportunities for a lot of adventurous activities like hiking awaits at Montserrat. Catch a choir performance by the Escolania in the basilica of Montserrat Monastery, walk to Santa Cova, where La Moreneta was first discovered, or climb up to Sant Jeroni for breathtaking views of the valley. As one of the biggest pilgrimage centers in Spain, Montserrat Monastery and its surroundings are definitely not to be missed.

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Girona

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 mins

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Nestled along the Onyar River, Girona is a medieval gem with cobblestone streets and colorful houses. Its well-preserved Old Town hosts a labyrinth of narrow alleys, leading to the impressive Girona Cathedral and the Jewish Quarter. Rich in history, this Catalan city, with its ancient charm, vibrant culture, and picturesque landscapes is a must-visit. Girona was also featured in 'Game of Thrones' in some very iconic scenes like Cersei's walk of shame from Grand Sept of Baelor.

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Figueres

Travel Time: 2 hours

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Figueres is a Catalan town near Barcelona and is the hometown of the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí. The renowned Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres is an whimsical world showcasing an extensive collection of Dalí's masterpieces. Figueres is a must-visit for art enthusiasts seeking a surreal journey through Dalí's work but its is also famous for its beautiful Modernista style architecture.

Sitges

Travel Time: 40 mins

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Nestled along the Spanish coast, the charming town of Sitges offers idyllic seafront promenades and sun-soaked beaches. While the central beaches can get lively, the town also boasts numerous options for sunbathing, including a nudist beach. Beyond the shore, Sitges also has elegant Modernisme architecture and house contemporary art museums. Renowned for its vibrant nightlife and a thriving LGBTIQ+ scene, Sitges is a perfect place to relax and let loose.

Tarragona

Travel Time: 1 hour

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Tarragona is a beautiful place to visit for history enthusiasts, with its well-preserved Roman amphitheatre, ancient walls, and porticoes overlooking the Mediterranean. Tarragona also boasts a charming Gothic cathedral and an idyllic Old Town. There are some wonderful restaurants you can stop by for a meal, especially for fresh seafood. One of the best places to visit in Tarragona is Parc Sama, with romantic buildings designed by Antoni Gaudi.

Colònia Güell

Travel Time: 40 mins

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Just outside of Barcelona lies Colònia Güell, one of Gaudí's final unfinished masterpieces. He was supposed to work on Colònia Güell, the church of a textile workers’ complex for Eusebi Güell, but he only managed to finish the crypt. The inclined brick-clad columns inside offer a look at Gaudí's groundbreaking structural concepts, ones he would go on to use for Sagrada Familia as well.

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Costa Brava

Travel Time: 1 hour 30 mins - 2 hours
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Standing 60 km away from Barcelona, Costa Brava is a beautiful place to visit for its sprawling beaches and pristine waters. It also offers a number of activities to quench your thirst for adventure, such as hiking, scuba diving, bungee jumping and more. Take a stroll through historic parts of Costa Brava and experience the country's past like never before through cobblestone streets, towers and stone walls. With pleasant weather throughout the year and excellent restaurants serving delicious fresh seafood, Costa Brava is a perfect holiday destination!

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Penedès

Travel Time: 50 mins

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With a winemaking legacy dating back to the 7th century, the Penedès Wine Region in Spain boasts quite a rich history. Its ancient vineyards, influenced by Phoenicians, Greeks, and Romans, has evolved through centuries to perfect the art of wine-making. Once predominantly red, Penedès transitioned to white wines and is now famous for its exquisite Cava. Take a walk through vineyards, participate in wine-tasting and make the most of your visit to Penedès, one of Europe's oldest wine-making regions.

Tossa De Mar

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 mins

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Tossa de Mar will make for a picturesque day trip from Barcelona. Its Old Town, a National Historic-Artistic Monument, overlooks the Mediterranean Sea and is definitely worth taking time out to explore. Visit some historical ruins in the morning, then unwind at the beach in the afternoon, where ancient walls spill onto the sands. Dive into culture, history, and even water adventures such as scuba diving and paddle boarding. Take a tour to Tossa De Mar and explore an off-beat side of Catalonia.

Vic

Travel Time: 1 hour

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Vic, in the Osona province near Barcelona, is a medieval town boasting a Roman temple, a stunning Cathedral, and a beautiful main square. Perfect for a day trip, it features cobblestone streets, Gothic churches, and charming plazas. Explore Vic's rich history through landmarks like the Cathedral of Santa Maria and enjoy the surrounding countryside with its rolling hills and vineyards. Finish off your day with some delicious local cuisine and make some memories you'll never forget in Vic.

Frequently Asked Questions About Day Trips from Barcelona

What are popular day trip destinations from Barcelona?

Explore some of the best day trip destinations near Barcelona such as Girona, Figueres or Montserrat.

How do I reach Montserrat from Barcelona?

Take a train from Barcelona's Plaça d’Espanya station to Montserrat. The journey offers scenic views, and upon arrival, a cable car or rack railway will get you to the mountaintop.

Can I visit Sitges on a day trip from Barcelona?

Yes, Sitges is easily accessible by train from Barcelona. Take one of the regular trains that run from Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia and Sants to Sitges.

What is the best way to get to Girona from Barcelona?

Trains to Girona from Barcelona run every 30 minutes. Explore the well-preserved medieval quarter, historical sites, and Onyar River views.

Are guided tours available for day trips from Barcelona?

Yes, numerous guided tours cater to various destinations from Barcelona. They offer convenient transportation options and a structured itinerary.

How do I reach Figueres for a day trip from Barcelona?

Figueres, home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, is easily accessible by train and there are trains to and from Barcelona every 30 minutes.