Looking for a break from the bustling city life of Barcelona? Look no further than these amazing day trips that will take you on an adventure through the stunning Catalan countryside. Whether you’re after sun-soaked beaches, majestic mountains, or charming medieval towns, our top picks have got you covered. So pack your bags and get ready to explore some of the most incredible destinations in Catalonia – all just a stone’s throw away from Barcelona!
What to pack for your day trip from Barcelona
Assuming you’re heading to the beach, pack your sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, and a good book. If you’re planning on doing any hiking or strenuous activity, make sure to pack comfortable clothes and sneakers. And of course, don’t forget your camera to capture all the beautiful sights!
For snacks, pack some protein bars or other healthy snacks that won’t spoil in the heat. You should also bring a bottle of water to stay hydrated. Lastly, be sure to double-check the forecast and pack a light jacket or sweater if it’s going to be cooler than expected.
Montserrat
Catalonia’s little sister, Montserrat is a rocky mountain range an hour outside of Barcelona. The area is famous for its 12th-century Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which houses the Virgin of Montserrat, the patron saint of Catalonia. Visitors can take a cogwheel train or hike up to the monastery for breathtaking views of the region.
The mountain also boasts a variety of hiking trails and stunning rock formations that change with the seasons. The area is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, making it one of the best places in Europe for nature lovers. In addition, Montserrat has some of the best rock climbing routes in the world and can be enjoyed year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
Other popular activities in Montserrat include rock climbing, visiting the Museu de Montserrat, and taking a cable car ride to the top of one of the peaks. For those looking for a more relaxing day trip, there are plenty of picnic spots and hiking trails throughout the mountains.
Whether you’re looking for a spiritual retreat or an adrenaline-filled adventure, Montserrat has something for everyone. The mountain is a must-see destination for any traveler visiting Catalonia and its beauty will not be forgotten.
Costa Brava
Just a short drive from Barcelona is the Costa Brava, a coastline full of small towns, each with its own unique charm. Start your day in Lloret de Mar, where you can walk along the seafront promenade, relax on the beach, or explore the numerous shops and restaurants.
Then head to Tossa de Mar, where you can visit the 12th-century castle that sits atop a cliff overlooking the sea. For a more active day, hike along the coastal path to Cala Bona for stunning views of the Mediterranean. Finish your day in Blanes, known for its beautiful gardens and sheltered beaches.
From beach days to sightseeing, there are plenty of activities on the Costa Brava to keep you busy. There are several boat tours available from Lloret de Mar that will take you along the coastline, and for a unique experience, consider scuba diving or snorkeling—the waters here are known for their crystal-clear visibility.
If you’re looking for a more relaxing day, sample local products at one of the many markets in the area or explore some of the region’s culinary specialties. Whatever your preference, the Costa Brava is an ideal destination for a sun-soaked holiday.
Cava wineries
Cava wineries are located in the Penedès wine region, about an hour’s drive from Barcelona. The best-known Cava producer is Freixenet, but there are many other small, family-run wineries producing high-quality Cava.
A visit to a Cava winery is a great way to learn about the production process and taste some of the different styles of Cava. Many wineries offer tours and tastings, and some also have restaurants where you can enjoy a meal with stunning views of the vineyards.
Some of the other leading Cava wineries are:
- Codorniu, family-run since 1551 and the first winery to produce Cava.
- Juvé & Camps, a modern winery producing sparkling wines from traditional Spanish varieties.
- Llopart, a boutique winery that produces quality Cavas with great attention to detail.
- Gramona, known for its small production of artisanal Cavas made with top-quality grapes.
- Castellroig, another family-run business that has been making stunning Cavas since 1887.
- Raventós i Blanc, awarded multiple times as the best producer of Cava in the region.
- Recaredo, an organic winery that produces some of the best Cavas in Spain.
Sitges
Sitges is one of the best day trips from Barcelona for several reasons. First, it’s only about an hour away by train. Second, it’s a beautiful coastal town with a lively atmosphere. Third, there are plenty of things to do in Sitges, from visiting the beach to exploring the old town.
If you’re looking for a relaxing day by the sea, Sitges is the perfect place. The town has two main beaches, Playa de la Ribera and Playa de Sant Sebastia. Both are great for swimming, sunbathing, and people-watching. There are also several restaurants and bars along the beachfront, making it easy to grab a bite or a drink without having to leave the sand.
For something more active, head to the old town. This charming area is full of narrow streets lined with shops and cafes. It’s worth taking some time to wander around and explore all that Sitges has to offer. If you get hungry, stop into one of the many tapas bars for a snack or sit down for a meal at a traditional restaurant.
No matter how you choose to spend your day in Sitges, it’s sure to be a memorable experience. With its stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere, it’s one of the best places near Barcelona for a day trip.
Girona
Girona is a beautiful city located in northeastern Spain, about an hour and a half drive from Barcelona. The city is home to many historical buildings and monuments, as well as a lively nightlife scene. There are plenty of things to see and do in Girona, making it the perfect day trip destination from Barcelona. Here are some of the best things to do in Girona:
Visit the Cathedral of Santa Maria de Girona: The cathedral is one of the most iconic buildings in Girona and is definitely worth a visit. Climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the city.- Explore the Old Town: Girona’s Old Town is full of narrow streets, charming cafes, and beautiful architecture. Take some time to wander around and explore all that this area has to offer.
- Visit the Arab Baths: The Arab Baths are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Girona. These ancient baths date back to the 12th century and are a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
- Have a drink on Placa de la Independencia: This square is located in the heart of Girona’s Old Town and is surrounded by bars and cafes. It’s a great place to relax with a drink after a long day of sightseeing.
- Take a walk along the old city walls: Girona is surrounded by a set of old city walls, which you can walk along for some breathtaking views.
- Visit the Jewish Quarter: Girona’s Jewish Quarter is one of the best-preserved in Europe and is full of interesting history and culture. Take some time to explore this area and learn more about its past.
Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres
The Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Catalonia. Located just a short drive from Barcelona, the museum is dedicated to the work of world-renowned artist Salvador Dalí.
Visitors can explore the many different rooms and exhibits, which showcase a wide range of Dalí’s works, including paintings, sculptures, installations, and more. The museum also has a theatre where visitors can watch short films about the artist and his work.
In addition to viewing the artwork, visitors can also learn more about Dalí’s life and work. The museum offers guided tours, as well as interactive activities for children. There is also a gift shop where visitors can find souvenirs inspired by the artist’s creations.
The museum is open from 10 am to 8 pm daily and admission is free.
Whether you’re an art lover or just looking for a unique day trip from Barcelona, the Dalí Museum is definitely worth a visit!
Medieval Town of Vic
Vic is a town in the province of Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain. The town is located on the river Llobregat, about 100 kilometers from Barcelona. Vic is the capital of the comarca (county) of Osona.
The town has a long history dating back to the Roman period. In the Middle Ages, it was an important stop on the pilgrimage route to Santiago de Compostela. Today, Vic is a popular tourist destination for its medieval architecture and lively market.
Some of the must-see sights in Vic include the Gothic Cathedral of Santa Maria (also known as the Colonia Vella), the 12th-century Romanesque church of Sant Pere Apostol, and the Plaça Major (main square). The Museu Episcopal de Vic is also worth a visit for its collection of religious art.
For a taste of local culture, be sure to check out the Vic Market (Mercat de Vic), which is held every Tuesday and Saturday morning. This huge market sells everything from fresh produce to clothes and household goods. You can also find many restaurants and bars serving traditional Catalan cuisine in Vic.
The Churches of Manresa
There are many churches in Manresa, each with its own unique history and architecture. The Basilica of Santa Maria de la Seu is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. The church was built in the 13th century and has a beautiful Gothic facade. Inside, the church is decorated with intricate stained glass windows and stunning stone carvings.
The Church of Sant Francesc is another must-see church in Manresa. This church was built in the 14th century and features a stunning Baroque façade. The interior of the church is just as beautiful, with its ornate ceiling paintings and marble altars.
If you’re looking for a more modern church, be sure to check out the Church of Sant Miquel. This contemporary church was designed by world-renowned architect Antoni Gaudí and completed in 1909. The exterior of the church is covered in colorful mosaic tiles, while the interior is simple and spacious.
No matter what your religious affiliation is, you’ll be sure to find a church in Manresa that appeals to you. So why not add a little bit of spirituality to your trip and explore some of these beautiful holy places?
El Vendrell
El Vendrell is a beautiful coastal town located just a short drive from Barcelona. The town is home to a number of great beaches, as well as a number of interesting historical and cultural sites.
El Vendrell is home to the Church of St. Francis, which is one of the most important religious monuments in Catalonia. This stunning building dates back to the early 18th century and was built on the site of a small chapel that was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War.
The town is also home to La Casa de la Vila, a beautiful Baroque-style building that houses a number of artifacts from El Vendrell’s past. The museum includes artifacts ranging from coins and ceramic pieces to paintings and sculptures.
Aside from its many historic sites, El Vendrell also offers great beaches along its coast. The beaches are clean, with plenty of amenities nearby such as cafés, restaurants, and bars. Additionally, there are several excellent diving spots around El Vendrell for those looking for some underwater adventure.
Some of the highlights of El Vendrell include the beaches of Cala Fonda and Cala Mesquida, the 18th-century Church of Santa Maria del Mar, and the Museu d’Art Modern i Contemporani de Tarragona.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, explore some history, or simply get away from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona for a day, El Vendrell makes for an ideal day trip.
Sant Cugat del Vallès
Sant Cugat del Vallès is a beautiful city located just outside of Barcelona. It is known for its incredible architecture, stunning scenery, and rich history. There are plenty of things to do in Sant Cugat del Vallès, making it the perfect place to spend a day or two when visiting Barcelona.
Some of the most popular attractions in Sant Cugat del Vallès include the Cathedral of Sant Cugat, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Monastery of Pedralbes. Other popular activities include hiking, biking, and picnicking in one of the many parks and gardens located throughout the city.
The city also hosts a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the International Festival of Music and Dance, the Film Festival, and the Easter Procession. In addition to its attractions and activities, Sant Cugat del Vallès is also home to some excellent restaurants and bars. The city’s local cuisine is a mix of traditional Catalan dishes, Mediterranean flavors, and international cuisine. With so much to see and do in Sant Cugat del Vallès, it’s no wonder why it is considered one of Spain’s most attractive destinations!
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or an action-packed adventure, Sant Cugat del Vallès has something to offer everyone. So don’t hesitate to add this amazing city to your list of places to visit when traveling to Barcelona!
Conclusion
Barcelona is a great city that has an incredible range of day trips and activities to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for stunning beaches, mountain hikes, vibrant markets, or historical towns, there’s something here for everyone. With so many amazing places to explore just a short distance away from the city center, it’s no wonder why Barcelona remains one of Europe’s most popular destinations. So take the time out and go on an unforgettable adventure – you won’t regret it!