If you are looking for the best day trips from Barcelona, you’re in the right place. I loved everything about my time in Barcelona, not only that, both Anna and Tom have lived here. Between us all, we have done the legwork to get the best tips and recommendations for you.
Barcelona is an incredible city, I love the mixture of a bustling city, gorgeous sandy beaches, and endless cultural opportunities. If you’re looking for things to do in Barcelona, check out our guide here.
We are going to venture just outside Barcelona in this article and find the best day trips from Barcelona, from relaxing at sandy beaches, and quaint fishing villages to exploring medieval towns. So relax, and let’s discover some great Barcelona day trips:
1. Montserrat
Welcome to Montserrat where rugged peaks scrape the sky and tranquility mingles with awe-inspiring landscapes. Around 45 miles from Barcelona, Montserrat is nestled among natural giants, the Santa Maria de Montserrat monastery stands as a beacon for travelers and pilgrims. It takes just over an hour to drive to Montserrat or you can choose a private tour. It’s a cultural powerhouse, blending art, history, and spirituality against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery.
This spot has long captured hearts, serving as a muse for artists and a sanctuary for seekers. Within its walls, sacred artifacts and historical treasures tell centuries-old tales, while outside, the vistas speak for themselves. Whether you’re chasing soulful moments or epic snapshots, Montserrat delivers. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you.
- Half-Day Tour to Montserrat – Explore the world-famous basilica and monastery on this private tour from Barcelona.
- Montserrat Monastery and Hiking Experience – Enjoy a dual adventure of body and spirit on this hiking trail of Montserrat’s peaks and uncover the monastery’s hidden tales.
- Montserrat and Wine Tasting Trip -From heavenly chorals to effervescent toasts, experience Montserrat’s mystique and Catalonia’s signature bubbles in a journey celebrating soulful sounds and tantalizing tastes!
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2. Girona
Picture this: a massive Gothic cathedral, cobbled streets straight out of the Middle Ages, and a Jewish quarter that’s buzzing with life. Girona’s like a patchwork quilt of cultures, all stitched together with some seriously old-school charm. And the best part? It’s just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Barcelona. You might even recognize some of the spots from ‘Game of Thrones’ — yep, it’s that cool.
Get ready to wander through tiny, twisty streets, chill by the Onyar River with its Insta-worthy colorful houses, and eat your way through the local food scene. Girona’s not just a trip — it’s a full-on feast for your senses!
It’s around an hour’s drive from Barcelona City Centre, or you can reach it by taking public transport (this consists of two buses that take around 1hr 30)
- ‘Game Of Thrones’ Tour in Girona– A must-do pilgrimage for every ‘Game of Thrones’ devotee — because sometimes, your favorite series should leap off the screen and into reality
- Girona and Costa Brava Tour – Uncover the secrets of Girona and bask in Costa Brava’s sunshine in one sweep — history whispers and beachside bliss await!
- Girona and Figueres Tour with Dalí Museum -Step into surrealism with a day trip that takes you from Girona’s historic corners to the mind-bending wonders of the Dalí Museum in Figueres — where every piece of art tells a story!
3. Tarragona
Around an hour from Barcelona’s city center is Tarragona, your ticket back to the Roman days! Imagine strolling through an ancient amphitheater and wandering under a massive aqueduct, all while soaking up stories from way back when. But hey, it’s not all about dusty old stones; Tarragona has its slice of paradise with Waikiki Beach. Picture a chill spot with golden sand, far from the crowds, where relaxation takes over.
Tarragona’s old town is a whole mood, with its cozy medieval vibes, twisty cobbled streets, and food spots dishing up mouth-watering Catalan flavors. Dive into history, chill on the sandy beach, or get lost in charming streets.
You can drive here, which takes an hour, use a direct bus from Barcelona City Centre or arrange a private tour.
- Tarragona and Sitges Small Group Day Trip – Journey through the sands of time as you explore Tarragona’s ancient heart and bask in Sitges’ seaside splendor, all in a day’s adventure that bridges epochs and coasts!
- Tarragona Tour -Delve into a time capsule, as Tarragona unfolds its Roman relics and medieval charms before you, narrating tales of gladiators, centurions, and artisans of a bygone era!
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4. Figueres
Ready for a quirky adventure? Say ‘hello’ to Figueres, Salvador Dalí’s hometown and one big playground for art enthusiasts and history buffs! This town is a colorful mishmash of creativity, with streets that just might inspire you to whip out a paintbrush yourself. From the bizarre beauty of the Dalí Theatre-Museum (think: eggs on rooftops and loaves of bread on walls) to the charming buzz of local life, every nook of Figueres invites you to embrace the unexpected.
- Figueres Walking Tour with Guided Visit to the Dalí Museum – Stroll through the whimsical streets of Figueres and step into the surreal world of Salvador Dalí, where every corner of his museum is a wild ride for your imagination. Art lover or not, this walking tour is a visual feast you’ll wanna sink your teeth into!
- Market to Fork with Social Cooker Yves – Get your taste buds ready for a culinary adventure with Yves, your new foodie BFF! Dive into Figueres’ market, pick the freshest ingredients, and cook up a storm together. It’s a ‘market-to-fork’ experience that’ll make your heart (and stomach) sing!
- Visit of St. Pere de Galligants and Arab Baths – Time-travel to Figueres’ medieval past at St. Pere de Galligants, then unwind like the ancients in the Arab Baths. It’s a day of exploration and relaxation, whisking you back to worlds gone by. History’s never been this rejuvenating!
The easiest way to reach Figueres from Barcelona is to drive, which takes around 1hr 30.
5. Penedes Wine Region
If you enjoy wine like I do, you will love the Pendes Wine Region. Picture rolling vineyards, the sun kissing your face, and a glass of the finest local drop in your hand! Known for its world-class Cavas (that’s Spanish bubbly), this region is a haven for wine lovers. It’s not just about wine tasting; it’s about the lush landscapes, the meet-cutes with local vintners, and the joy of uncorking happiness in a glass. Ready to swirl, sniff, and sip your way through Penedes?
- Exclusive Cava and Wine Tasting Experience – Embark on a bubbly adventure in Penedes! Enjoy this wine tasting and embrace the art of Cava, sip joy from a glass, and revel in vineyard stories untold. It’s not just tasting; it’s a celebration!
- Small Group Cava and Wine Day Trip – Join a cozy crew of wine explorers to uncover Penedes’ hidden gems! This trip is your ticket to the heart of Spanish wine bliss, from secret cellars to exquisite toasts.
- Penedes and Pla de Bages Winery Tour – Set off on a wine quest from Penedes to Pla de Bages! Meet the faces behind the labels, taste their passions, and revel in Catalonia’s rich, spirited heritage, one sip at a time.
At around 30 miles from Barcelona City Centre, the quickest way to get to Penedes would be to drive or arrange a private transfer (especially if you’d like to indulge in a wine tasting).
6. PortAventura Theme Park
PortAventura, where adrenaline rushes are around every corner! Forget the siesta; we’re talking heart-pounding rides, whimsical shows, and worlds beyond your wildest dreams, all just a hop, skip and jump from Barcelona. Well, it takes around 1hr 15 to get there. The easiest way to get to PortAventura Theme Park is to organize a tour that includes travel.
Ready to unleash your inner adventurer in Spain’s largest playground? Buckle up, because it’s going to be an unforgettable ride!
- PortAventura Day Trip from Barcelona – Escape to the land of thrills with a day trip to PortAventura! From dizzying roller coasters to splash-tacular water rides, it’s a universe of fun waiting just for you. Why wait? Adventure is calling!
- PortAventura and Ferrari Land Day Trip from Barcelona – Double the fun, double the excitement! Gear up for a day where worlds collide, from PortAventura’s wild rides to Ferrari Land’s need for speed. It’s every thrill-seeker’s fantasy come true, in one action-packed day!
7. Tossa de Mar
Say “hola” to Tossa de Mar, the seaside escape of your dreams! Picture a cozy beach town where the waves dance along the shore, medieval walls tell timeless tales, and the vibes? Pure relaxation. Tossa is not just a place; it’s a mood. And guess what? It’s contagious. Dive into crystal-clear waters, wander through narrow lanes brimming with history, and don’t even get us started on the mouth-watering seafood. Ready for a slice of paradise? Tossa awaits and is a 1hr 30 drive from Barcelona.
- Discover Scuba Diving PADI – Take the plunge — literally! No more watching from the shore; it’s your turn to explore the deep blue. With every bubble and every breath, uncover a world you’ve only imagined. No experience? No problem! Dive into a day you’ll never forget.
- Full-Day Private Tour to Tossa de Mar from Barcelona – Escape the hustle, and embrace the serenity. From Barcelona’s buzz to Tossa de Mar’s tranquility, embark on a journey tailored just for you. History, scenery, and the sea — a trifecta of perfection. It’s more than a trip; it’s a breath of fresh air
8. Vilafranca del Penedes
Nestled in the heart of Catalonia’s wine region, this charming town is a treasure trove of wine culture, buzzing markets, and historic wonders. From exploring its ancient nooks to toasting at the famed Penedès wineries, a trip to Vilafranca is like stepping into a living postcard where vibrant traditions meet irresistible flavors!
Vilafranca is only 35 miles from Barcelona so will take around 45 minutes to drive there or you can take the inter-city rail which takes around 1hr 20.
9. Costa Brava
Dive into Costa Brava’s allure, where sparkling seas meet dramatic cliffs. This slice of Spanish paradise offers more than just stunning sunsets; it’s a haven of hidden coves, artistic heritage, and picturesque old towns. Whether you’re chasing adventure on coastal trails or soaking in the ambiance at seaside cafés, Costa Brava promises unforgettable moments stitched into the fabric of every visit.
- Costa Brava Full Day Trip – Hop on this wild ride to Costa Brava, where it’s all about jaw-dropping coastlines, Insta-worthy villages, and that pure ‘I gotta tell my friends about this’ adventure!
- Costa Brava & Dali Museum Guided Tour – Get ready for a day of ‘OMG’ moments, diving into Dali’s bizarre imagination and chilling on Costa Brava’s stunning beaches — it’s like stepping into a postcard sprinkled with a dash of crazy.
I would recommend using a trip to get to Costa Brava from Barcelona City Centre as it can take up to 2 hours to drive.
10. Sitges
A quaint fishing village, Sitges, where every day feels like a carnival! Known for its pristine beaches, bustling nightlife, and colorful festivals, Sitges is a Mediterranean cocktail of fun. This town is a canvas painted with artistic history and a liberal, laid-back lifestyle. It’s not just a destination; it’s an experience that dances to the rhythm of the waves, the laughter, and the endless good times. From the golden sands to the vibrant streets, you’ll feel a little magic in the air.
- Sitges Private Tour from Barcelona – Your adventure, your rules. From Barcelona to the heart of Sitges, plan your perfect trip to explore Sitges. You can also use the inter-city rail to arrive at Sitges which takes just over an hour.
- Tarragona and Sitges Private Day Trip – Double the destinations, double the joy! Embark on a time-traveling escapade to Tarragona’s Roman glory before unwinding in Sitges’ contemporary bliss. History, beachside thrills, and your private tour – what’s not to love?
11. Salou
The golden heartbeat of Spain’s Costa Daurada – Salou! With its sun-kissed beaches, palm-lined promenades, and vibrant atmosphere, Salou is a pretty beachside village that’s buzzing from dawn till dusk. Whether you’re riding the thrilling waves or exploring the luminous streets, Salou promises endless sunshine and smiles. It’s not just a place to visit; it’s a radiant adventure waiting to embrace you.
- Paragliding Salou – Soar above Salou, where the sky’s the limit and the sea sprawls endlessly below! Feel the thrill, embrace the freedom, and steal a glimpse of heaven on earth
- Canyoning in Salou – Leap into an epic day of splashy thrills with canyoning in Salou — where you’re not just along for the ride, you are the ride!
The easiest way to visit Salou is to drive or arrange a taxi as this takes around 1hr 20. You can use the inter-city rail but this will take just over 2 hours.
12. Ruins of Empuries
Step into a time machine and travel back to ancient civilizations at the Ruins of Empuries. Where the whispers of the Greek and Roman ancestors echo through the stone relics and mosaic treasures, this archaeological site paints a vivid picture of past lives and glory right by the azure Mediterranean shores. As you wander the ancient streets, you’ll feel like an explorer uncovering secrets of long-lost worlds, making it not just a visit but a journey through time!
- Costa Brava and Empuries Small Group Tour – Dive into a day of sun-kissed adventures, from the mesmerizing shores of Costa Brava to the historical heart of Empuries, all while riding the waves of history and the sea!
I’d recommend using a tour to get to Ruins of Empuries as it’s quite a drive from Barcelona City Centre and there are some unpaved roads along the way.
13. Colònia Güell
Step into a lesser-known masterpiece by Gaudí – Colònia Güell, a small workers’ village that’s a big canvas of modernist art! Only 30 minutes from Barcelona, this cultural gem dazzles with its innovative architecture, especially the unfinished Gaudí’s Crypt, a site brimming with the architect’s signature style. It’s a surreal escape where every brick speaks volumes about artistic revolutions and social history!
14. Calella de Palafrugell
Picture a pretty beachside village full of charm = where ivory houses kiss the serene Mediterranean shores, and you’ve landed in Calella de Palafrugell. This unspoiled haven in Costa Brava weaves a spell with its tangle of narrow lanes, sun-dappled terraces, and coves waiting to be discovered.
It’s not just a seaside village; it’s a palette of blues and whites, with melodies of local life and whispers of ancient tales. So, take a lazy stroll, relish the sizzling seafood, or hum along with the local musicians — Calella is a melody that you’ll remember forever!
- Costa Brava Full Day Trip – Uncover the hidden gems of Costa Brava in an exhilarating day trip from Barcelona that promises quaint villages, crystal-clear waters, and breathtaking landscapes – a true escape into Mediterranean bliss!
I’d recommend a beach day trip as suggested to arrive at Calella de Palafrugell if you only have a day to explore. It will take around 1 hour 30 to drive the 77-mile distance from Barcelona.
15. Besalú
Imagine strolling through a real-life fairy tale. That’s Besalú for you, a cozy little town where stories nestle between ancient stones and every bridge has an old tale to murmur. You’re in for a treat with its jaw-dropping old-school bridges and buildings that look like they’ve jumped straight out of a history book!
Peek into its rich Jewish roots, snoop around age-old courtyards or just wander and wonder at the cobbled streets that wind into yesteryears. Trust us, trotting around Besalú is like stepping into a time machine wrapped in medieval mystery! All of this is just 81 miles away from Barcelona City Centre. The easiest way to get here is to drive or organize a tour.
- Besalú and Medieval Towns Tour – Explore Besalú’s medieval world, where stories linger on every stone. This isn’t just a tour; it’s a passport to the past!
16. Castellfollit de la Roca
Castellfollit de la Roca is unique, perched on a basalt cliff so sheer, it’s as if nature sculpted it just for a postcard! In one of the smallest towns in Catalonia, life teeters thrillingly between sky and earth, offering vistas so dramatic, they’ll make your heart skip a beat.
Here, quaintness and wonder walk hand-in-hand along narrow streets that remember the footsteps of centuries. As the sun sets, watch the houses glow like embers, reflecting the fiery spirit of a town clinging to the edge. It’s not just a visit; it’s stepping into a living fairy tale where every glance is a story waiting to be told!
If you’d like to spend more time in Castellfollit de la Roca, you can drive here in around 1hr 30.
17. Cadaqués
Imagine a seaside village so charming that even Salvador Dalí fell in love with it. Welcome to Cadaqués, the whitewashed paradise where art, history, and the Mediterranean breeze mingle! With its meandering lanes, cozy cafes, and magical light that seems to dance on the waves, this town is a canvas of inspiration. Whether you’re here to trace Dalí’s steps, devour fresh seafood, or just unwind on the beach, Cadaqués promises every visitor a splash of joy and a stroke of artistic spirit!
18. Vic
Just under an away is Vic, a vibrant treasure tucked away in Catalonia. Embrace its rich history while strolling through one of the best-preserved medieval centers around. Famous for its epic market days, you can haggle and mingle with locals, scoring some artisanal ‘fuet’ (that’s a yummy local sausage) or unique crafts.
Don’t forget the stunning Cathedral of St. Peter, a mix of styles from Romanesque to neoclassical that tells Vic’s story through the ages. And hey, the epic Plaça Major, a vast square that’s been the heartbeat of Vic for centuries, is the perfect spot to kick back and soak in real Spanish culture. Vic’s not just a visit; it’s a deep dive into tradition!
- Private Full-Day Vic, Santapau, and Besalú Tour – Enjoy a private full-day tour, where the historic allure of Vic, the peaceful vibes of Sant Pau, and the medieval charm of Besalú creates a trifecta of cultural enrichment just for you.
Conclusion
Here’s our roundup of Barcelona’s best side trips! We’ve explored, indulged, and taken a deep dive into the past, all within a day’s adventure from the city. Now, it’s over to you! Grab your sense of adventure, pick a destination, and off you go. New experiences are just a day trip away.
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