Barcelona is an incredible city, but if you have time, exploring its surrounding regions can be just as exciting. From medieval towns to stunning coastal villages and breathtaking mountains, there are plenty of amazing day trips from Barcelona.
👉 In this guide, I’ll cover the top 10 best day trips, how to get there, and what to do!
1. Montserrat – The Iconic Mountain & Monastery 🏔️⛪
📍 Why Visit? A must-see for nature lovers and those interested in Catalonia’s spiritual side.
- 🌄 Hiking trails with panoramic views.
- 🎶 Montserrat Monastery – Home to the famous boys’ choir.
- 🚡 Take the cable car for a breathtaking ascent.
🚆 How to Get There: Train from Plaça Espanya (~1 hour).
📍 Google Maps
2. Sitges – The Perfect Beach Escape 🌊🌴
📍 Why Visit? One of the most charming coastal towns near Barcelona.
- 🏖️ Relax on the beautiful beaches.
- 🍽️ Try fresh seafood and paella by the waterfront.
- 🎭 Walk through the Old Town and visit the Cau Ferrat Museum.
🚆 How to Get There: Train from Sants Station (~40 minutes).
📍 Google Maps
3. Girona – A Medieval Fairytale City 🏰
📍 Why Visit? A historic city with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- 🚶 Walk along the ancient city walls.
- 📸 Visit Game of Thrones filming locations.
- 🏛️ Explore the Jewish Quarter and the impressive Cathedral.
🚆 How to Get There: High-speed train (~40 minutes).
📍 Google Maps
4. Tarragona – Roman Ruins by the Sea 🏛️🌅
📍 Why Visit? A UNESCO-listed city with incredible Roman ruins.
- 🏟️ Visit the Roman amphitheater with sea views.
- 🍷 Enjoy wine tasting in the surrounding vineyards.
- 🚶 Stroll along the Mediterranean Balcony for sunset views.
🚆 How to Get There: Train from Sants Station (~1 hour).
📍 Google Maps
5. Costa Brava – Hidden Coves & Crystal Clear Waters 🏝️
📍 Why Visit? One of Spain’s most stunning coastal areas.
- 🏊 Swim in hidden coves with turquoise waters.
- 🏡 Explore charming fishing villages like Cadaqués.
- 🎨 Visit the Dalí Museum in Figueres.
🚗 How to Get There: Car rental recommended (~1.5-2 hours).
📍 Google Maps
6. Penedès Wine Region – The Cava Capital 🍷
📍 Why Visit? Home to Catalonia’s best vineyards and Cava production.
- 🥂 Cava tastings at famous wineries like Freixenet and Codorníu.
- 🚜 Enjoy a vineyard tour and learn about winemaking.
- 🌿 Take in the stunning landscape of rolling hills.
🚆 How to Get There: Train from Sants (~1 hour) + local taxi.
📍 Google Maps
7. Vic – A Traditional Catalan Town 🎭🏡
📍 Why Visit? A lesser-known town with rich Catalan culture.
- 🏛️ Explore the medieval market square.
- 🍖 Try Catalan cured meats and local cheese.
- ⛪ Visit the Roman Temple and cathedral.
🚆 How to Get There: Train from Sants (~1.5 hours).
📍 Google Maps
8. Andorra – A Mountainous Escape 🏔️🇦🇩
📍 Why Visit? A different country for the day!
- 🎿 Ski in winter, hike in summer.
- 🛍️ Tax-free shopping in Andorra la Vella.
- 🏞️ Relax in Caldea Spa, Europe’s largest thermal spa.
🚗 How to Get There: Bus from Barcelona (~3 hours).
📍 Google Maps
9. Besalú – A Timeless Medieval Village ⏳🏰
📍 Why Visit? One of Catalonia’s best-preserved medieval towns.
- 🌉 Cross the iconic medieval bridge.
- 🏛️ Visit the Jewish baths and synagogue.
- 🍽️ Try traditional Catalan cuisine in a rustic setting.
🚗 How to Get There: Car rental recommended (~1.5 hours).
📍 Google Maps
10. Rupit & Tavertet – Stunning Nature & Stone Villages 🌿🏡
📍 Why Visit? A hidden rural escape perfect for nature lovers.
- 🏞️ Hike to the Salt de Sallent waterfall.
- 🏡 Explore charming stone villages.
- 🚴 Great for cycling & outdoor adventures.
🚗 How to Get There: Car rental recommended (~2 hours).
📍 Google Maps
Final Tips for Your Day Trips from Barcelona
✅ Best Way to Travel:
- 🚆 Train: Fast & comfortable for places like Girona, Sitges, and Tarragona.
- 🚗 Car Rental: Ideal for Costa Brava, Andorra, and mountain villages.
- 🚌 Bus: Cheap option for Andorra & nearby towns.
✅ Best Time to Visit:
- ☀️ Spring & Fall – Perfect for sightseeing & hiking.
- 🌊 Summer – Great for beach destinations (Costa Brava, Sitges).
- ❄️ Winter – Ideal for Andorra (skiing & shopping).
✅ Budget Estimate:
| Expense | Cost (€) |
|---|---|
| Train Ticket (round trip) | 10-40 |
| Car Rental (per day) | 30-80 |
| Restaurant Meal | 15-30 |
| Entrance Fees | 5-20 |
Conclusion
Barcelona is an amazing city, but its surroundings are just as exciting! Whether you love history, beaches, hiking, or wine, these top 10 day trips offer something for every traveler.
📢 Have you done a day trip from Barcelona? Share your experience in the comments! 🚀