Barcelona is an amazing city, full of history, culture, and vibrant life. But did you know there's so much more to explore just outside the city? Barcelona's geography offers easy access to mountains, beaches, and historic towns.
Whether you love nature, history, or food, there are some fantastic day trips you can take. Here are the top five day trips from Barcelona that you shouldn't miss.
Monistrol de Montserrat with cable car
Just 38km from Barcelona, Montserrat is a must-visit. This sacred mountain range is famous for its beauty and religious significance. Most visitors flock to the impressive Benedictine Abbey. Here, you’ll find the Black Madonna, a small wooden statue said to be carved by Saint Luke in Jerusalem.
The abbey sits under St. Jerome’s peak, offering stunning views of Catalonia. The serrated peaks and magical limestone rock formations of Montserrat glow pink in the setting sun, making it a sight to behold. Don't miss the cogwheel train ride up the mountain for an unforgettable experience.
Barcelona Day Trips: Girona
Girona's old town is a maze of ancient arcaded houses, grand churches, and sloped cobbled streets. The grand cathedral looms over the town, providing a stunning backdrop. Girona has a rich Jewish history, and you can learn about it at the Museu d’Història dels Jueus.
For a different slice of history, visit the 12th-century Banys Àrabs (Arab Baths), which were featured in Game of Thrones. Don’t forget to stroll along the Onyar River to see the colorful houses and enjoy some tapas in the newer part of town. Girona is a perfect mix of history, culture, and culinary delights.
Tarragona: Roman History by the Sea
Tarragona is another fantastic day trip from Barcelona. Known for its Roman remains, this city offers a glimpse into ancient times. Start your visit with the Amfiteatre Romà and the Fòrum Provincial. The excellent Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona provides a great overview of the city's Roman past.
After exploring the ruins, head to the grand cathedral and enjoy lunch in one of the nearby restaurants. For seafood lovers, the fishing neighborhood of El Serrallo offers many fine seafood restaurants. Tarragona combines history with modern charm, making it one of the best trips from Barcelona.
Colònia Güell: Gaudí’s Hidden Gem
Apart from La Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s last big project was Colònia Güell. This utopian textile workers’ complex was created for his patron Eusebi Güell in Santa Coloma de Cervelló. Although Gaudí only finished the crypt, it's still a fascinating place to visit.
The brick-clad columns supporting the ribbed vaults in the ceiling lean at various angles, showcasing Gaudí’s unique architectural style. Visiting Colònia Güell provides insight into the physics behind his masterpiece, the Sagrada Família, and offers a peaceful escape from the city.
Penedès Wine Region
Just south of Barcelona lies the Penedès region, one of Spain’s foremost wine-producing areas. Famous for its Cava, the Catalan version of Champagne, the region also produces excellent reds and whites. Enotourism has taken off here recently, and a day trip to one of the many wineries is a great way to spend a day.
Many tours include vineyard and cellar visits, wine tasting, food, and even a bit of culture. You can also take the train and visit wineries independently. A trip to Penedès offers a perfect blend of beautiful scenery and delicious wine, making it a great day tour.
Sitges: Sun, Sea, and Culture
The pretty, whitewashed town of Sitges is perfect for seafront promenading and sun-worshipping. With 17 sandy beaches, some nudist, there's plenty of space to relax. Sitges is also home to a vibrant LGBTIQ+ scene and has great nightlife. The classy old center boasts elegant buildings and museums, perfect for those interested in contemporary art and the Modernisme movement.
Sitges also hosts one of Spain's best Carnaval celebrations and the Sitges International Film Festival in October. With its family-friendly and gay-friendly vibe, Sitges is a fantastic day trip from Barcelona.
Conclusion
Exploring beyond Barcelona reveals a world of beauty, history, and culture. From the sacred peaks of Montserrat to the sun-soaked beaches of Sitges, these day trips offer something for everyone. Other must-visit day trips include Costa Brava, Salvador Dalí Museum, Celler de Can Roca, Tossa de Mar, and Museu de la Ciutat de Catalunya. So, next time you're in Barcelona, take a break from the city and discover the amazing places just a short journey away.