Barcelona is an amazing city like no other. From incredible landmarks and yummy food to its impressive beaches, architecture and history, there is always plenty to see on your travels. However, beyond Barcelona, there is so much more to see of the region. If you’re looking for a true taste of Catalonia then you need to take a few day trips from Barcelona.
Let us introduce you to our guide to three day trips from Barcelona! We’ll show you the best places to visit, all accessible from the Catalan Capital, that are bound to impress.
Check out these three day trips from Barcelona
While there are many things to do in Barcelona, it’s also nice to get out the city for a bit and explore a few of the surrounding towns. Here are three of our favorite day trips from Barcelona.
Montserrat
First up on our list is a popular favourite, the beautiful Montserrat. This mountain range is utterly breathtaking, and home to one of the region’s most holy sites – the Montserrat monastery.
The rock formations themselves are a thing of beauty. Their unique shape, and sheer enormity, make them one of the most special sights you will see. From up high you can look out and marvel at the endless countryside, the magnificent Pyrenees mountain range, as well as the sea in the distance.
There are also many hiking opportunities around Montserrat. The most popular route is to Camí de la Santa Cova. This is a relatively easy walk, and not too long, but be sure to bring appropriate footwear and pack your water!
How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona
You have several options when it comes to travelling to Montserrat. The easiest and most obvious, perhaps, is to drive by car. This journey takes around 50 minutes. You will have no problem finding a car parking space up there but bear in mind you may need to pay. You can also book a transfer to the Montserrat Monastery from Barcelona.
However, if you do not have access to a car, the FGC train leaves every hour from 8:36am at Placa Espanya station, from which you can transfer to a cable car or smaller train to take you up the mountain.
Many Barcelona tour companies offer a journey to Montserrat as a package, so be sure to check out this option too if you want to be led by experts. This tour includes a visit to the Montserrat Monastery, wine tasting and lunch.
Blanes
Blanes is a popular, if not one of the most popular, seaside spots for locals all throughout Barcelona and Catalonia to visit. Known as the gateway to Costa Brava, Blanes is the ideal place to spend the day on your vacation. The setting is simply beautiful, with deep blue water, and soft sandy beaches, surrounded by nature. Whilst popular, Blanes is far less touristy than other hotspots such as Lloret de Mar.
Be sure to visit with your family and friends, as there are countless family-friendly restaurants and bars to explore.
How to get to Blanes from Barcelona
The drive to Blanes is around an hour, and a rather scenic drive, at that.
Alternatively, catch the Sagalés 603 bus from Gran Via – Marina and take it all the way to Blanes. Exit the bus at Anselm Clavé – Tarragona. From there, walk a short 4 minutes to your destination.
Sitges
Around 35km southwest of the Catalan Capital, is the seaside town of Sitges. Renowned for its promenade, luxurious mansions and fab views, this small coastal town is packed to the brim with lots to see and do.
Sitges is a welcoming and lively town, worth the visit. There is a vibrant LGBTQ scene there, as well as a huge Carnaval, hosted annually at the start of the year.
Its most famous attraction? The Sitges Film Festival, taking place this year from the 5th of October to the 15th. This festival, established in 1968, takes place annually and showcases the best films the region has to offer, especially in the fantasy and horror category. This is definitely not one to miss for all you film fans out there!
How to get to Sitges from Barcelona
There are regular trains from Passeig de Gracia and Sants running from 5am to 10pm. Alternatively, you can drive or take the Monbus which will take you directly there.
Join this day trip to Montserrat and Sitges!
So, there you have it! Our guide to day trips from Barcelona! We hope you enjoyed this blog, and feel inspired to explore more of what this fabulous region has to offer. From the mountainous Montserrat to the stunning beaches of Sitges, the world is your oyster!
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