6 Epic Day Trips From Barcelona

If you’re planning a trip to this amazing city, you’re probably wondering which day trips are worth taking. With so many incredible options to choose from, it’s hard to decide which ones are worth your time. From coastal towns to mountain retreats, and from medieval villages to wine regions, the possibilities are endless.

You want to make sure you have enough time to truly experience each destination, and not rush through it just to check it off your list.

Another important thing to consider is the mode of transportation. Do you want to rent a car, take the train, or book a guided tour? Each option has its pros and cons, and I’ll be sharing my top tips for getting to each destination with ease.

Finally, it’s essential to think about the time of year you’re visiting Barcelona, and how that might affect your day trip plans. For example, some destinations might be better suited for summer, while others are perfect for spring or fall. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered with insider knowledge on the best times to visit each spot.

Let’s get into the top 6 must-do day trips from Barcelona! But wait – there’s more! Stick around until the end of the video for an extra, must-see one-day trip that you won’t want to miss.

#6 Tarragona

First up, we have the stunning coastal town of Tarragona.

A one-day trip to Tarragona offers a perfect blend of Roman history, seaside views, and charming streets. Begin by exploring the Roman Amphitheater, a stunning ancient site overlooking the Mediterranean. Continue your journey through time with visits to the Roman Circus and Praetorium Tower, followed by a stroll along the ancient city walls. Don’t miss the impressive Tarragona Cathedral, located in the old town with its beautiful Gothic architecture. For a relaxing break, wander the charming streets of the old quarter, and then head down to the Balcó del Mediterrani for sweeping coastal views. Finish your day with some local seafood at a nearby restaurant.

From Barcelona, you can take the train to Tarragona in just an hour, making it the perfect day trip for history buffs and beach lovers alike.

#5 Girona

For a dose of medieval charm, head to the picturesque town of Girona, where you can wander the colorful streets and indulge in some of the best tapas around.

Start by exploring the majestic Girona Cathedral, with its impressive Gothic architecture and panoramic views. Wander through the charming Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of the best-preserved in Europe, filled with narrow medieval streets. Take a walk along the Onyar River, crossing the iconic bridges for stunning views of the colorful riverside houses. Don’t miss a stroll along the medieval city walls for breathtaking views of the town and surrounding countryside. Wrap up your day by exploring Girona’s vibrant cafes and enjoying local cuisine in the atmospheric old town.

Restaurant Nu and Llevataps provide a delightful mix of local flavors and creativity, perfect for a memorable lunch in Girona!

The easiest and quickest way to get to Girona from Barcelona is by taking the high-speed AVE train from Barcelona Sants station. The journey takes about 38 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day, and tickets can be purchased in advance through Renfe’s website or at the station. This is the most convenient option for a day trip. Alternatively, regular regional trains (R11) are available, but they take around 1 hour 30 minutes.

#4 Penedés

Let’s not forget the wine lovers out there – a day trip to the Penedès region will have you sipping your way through one of the region’s famous Cava wineries. Codorníu and Freixenet are two of the most renowned wineries in the area, offering guided tours where you can learn about the Cava-making process and enjoy tastings. Enjoy lunch at Cal Xim in Sant Pau d’Ordal – A charming, rustic restaurant offering traditional Catalan cuisine paired with local wines. Their roast lamb and grilled vegetables are a perfect match with a glass of Cava. After lunch, visit a smaller boutique winery such as Gramona or Parés Baltà for a more intimate and personalized wine tasting experience. You can also take a walk through the vineyards and enjoy the countryside views.

Several companies offer guided tours from Barcelona to Penedès, which is ideal if you prefer a hassle-free experience with transportation, wine tastings, and vineyard visits included.

The best way to travel to the Penedès wine region from Barcelona is by taking the R4 Renfe commuter train from Barcelona Sants or Plaça de Catalunya to either Vilafranca del Penedès or Sant Sadurní d’Anoia. The journey takes about 45 minutes, and trains run frequently throughout the day. Both towns are central to the wine region and offer easy access to nearby wineries for tours and tastings. For more flexibility, you can also drive via the AP-7 highway, which takes about 45 minutes.

#3 Tossa de Mar

If you’re feeling beachy, the Costa Brava coastline boasts pristine beaches, charming fishing towns, and crystal-clear waters perfect for a refreshing dip.

Start your day in Tossa de Mar, located on the Costa Brava. This is a picturesque coastal town on the Costa Brava. Explore the Vila Vella (Old Town), a beautifully preserved medieval town with cobblestone streets and a historic castle. Walk around the castle walls for stunning views of the sea. Relax on the beaches around Tossa de Mar, or, if you’re feeling more adventurous, rent a kayak and explore the hidden coves along the Costa Brava coastline. There are also several hiking trails if you’d prefer a more active afternoon.

Can Carlus, a family-run restaurant offering fresh seafood and Catalan cuisine. Try their seafood paella or grilled monkfish, both popular among locals and tourists alike or Bar Don Juan, a lively bar where you can enjoy delicious tapas like calamari, gambas al ajillo (garlic prawns), and escalivada while sipping a glass of Cava provide great options to savor the local cuisine.

Tossa de Mar is well connected with Barcelona. The easiest option is to take a direct bus from Barcelona Estació del Nordstation. The journey takes about 1 hour 30 minutes, and buses are operated by Sarfa, running several times a day. Alternatively, you can drive via the C-32 and GI-681 roads, which also takes around 1 hour 30 minutes. Driving offers more flexibility for exploring nearby areas.

#2 Cadaqués and Figueres

Cadaqués and Figueres, two gems of the Costa Brava that are perfect for a day filled with art, history, and coastal beauty.

Cadaqués is one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Spain, known for its whitewashed houses, azure waters, and being the summer home of Salvador Dalí. Explore the Old Town, and just outside Cadaqués in Portlligat is Dalí’s quirky former residence, now a museum. You can tour the eccentric artist’s home, which showcases his unique creative process and offers stunning views of the sea.

Tip: Book your tickets in advance as it’s a popular spot and has limited capacity.

Restaurant Compartir – One of the top-rated restaurants in Cadaqués, offering a modern take on traditional Catalan cuisine. Known for sharing plates, dishes include fresh seafood, grilled meats, and creative tapas.

After lunch, head to Figueres, Salvador Dalí’s birthplace and home to one of the most surreal art museums in the world.

This is the main attraction in Figueres and is considered Dalí’s largest work of art. The museum is an immersive experience showcasing Dalí’s paintings, sculptures, and other surrealist pieces.

Visit Castell de Sant Ferran. This massive 18th-century fortress is one of the largest in Europe.

The Toy Museum of Catalonia is a fun and nostalgic stop. This quirky museum houses toys from different eras and countries, including toys that once belonged to famous personalities like Dalí and García Lorca.

The Racó de la Xeli is a great choice for a cozy, intimate setting, offering creative tapas and excellent Catalan dishes with locally sourced ingredients.

By Car (Recommended for Flexibility):

• Drive to Cadaqués: The drive takes about 2 hours 30 minutes from Barcelona, via the AP-7 motorway and GI-614, which leads to the beautiful seaside town. The roads are scenic, especially the winding road that leads down to Cadaqués.

• From Cadaqués to Figueres: It’s about a 45-minute drive from Cadaqués to Figueres, making it easy to visit both places in one day.

• From Figueres to Barcelona: The drive back takes about 1 hour 30 minutes via the AP-7 motorway.

By Public Transport (Bus and Train):

From Figueres to Barcelona: The fastest option is the AVE high-speed train from Figueres-Vilafant station to Barcelona Sants. The journey takes about 55 minutes.

To Cadaqués: Take a Sarfa bus from Barcelona’s Estació del Nord to Cadaqués. The journey takes about 2 hours 45 minutes.

From Cadaqués to Figueres: You’ll need to take a bus from Cadaqués to Figueres, which takes around 1 hour. Buses run a few times a day.

#1 Montserrat

Take the R5 train from Barcelona to Montserrat, followed by the cable car or funicular to the monastery. Visit the Basilica and the Black Madonna.

The Benedictine abbey dates back to the 11th century and is located high up in the Montserrat mountains, known for its jagged peaks and breathtaking views. It remains an important spiritual site in Catalonia.

The monastery features stunning Gothic and Renaissance architecture, blending into the mountainous landscape.

The Virgin of Montserrat (La Moreneta) is a revered statue of the Black Madonna and the patron saint of Catalonia. According to legend, the statue was discovered in the mountain caves in the 9th century.

Enjoy a meal at Restaurant Abat Cisneros within the monastery complex, offering local Catalan cuisine with mountain views.

In the afteronoon, ride the Sant Joan Funicular for hiking and panoramic views, or visit the Montserrat Museum. Optionally, attend the boys’ choir performance. If you visit during the day (usually at 1:00 p.m.), you may hear the renowned boys’ choir, one of the oldest in Europe, perform at the basilica. Their singing adds to the spiritual ambiance of the site.

Head back to Barcelona via train or on a guided tour. For a guided tour from Barcelona to Montserrat, there are several great options available, each offering a blend of history, natural beauty, and convenience.

These tours typically include transportation, entrance fees, and a knowledgeable guide to explain the spiritual and cultural significance of the site. Some even offer additional options like wine tastings or hiking in the surrounding mountains​.

Extra trip you won’t want to miss: Sitges

Sitges is a charming coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and a historic old town filled with whitewashed houses. It’s famous for its film festival, LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere, and nightlife.

Stroll along Passeig Marítim, a picturesque seafront promenade lined with palm trees, offering stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and grand mansions.

Visit the Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla: This iconic church sits on a hill overlooking the sea. It’s a symbol of Sitges and provides panoramic views of the coastline.

Relax on the Beaches: Platja de la Ribera is the main beach, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. If you prefer a quieter spot, head to Platja de Sant Sebastià.

Explore the Old Town: Wander through the charming narrow streets of the old town, filled with boutiques, art galleries, and cafes. Don’t miss the Museu Maricel and Cau Ferrat Museum to learn about local art and culture.

Sitges is a paradise for food lovers. Whether you’re dining by the sea or exploring the charming streets of the old town, savor the best at Moreno Tapas Bar Located on Carrer Jesús, Moreno offers a modern take on Mediterranean cuisine with an emphasis on seasonal ingredients and creative presentation. The cozy and chic atmosphere makes it ideal for a great meal.

Restaurant Maricel, situated near the waterfront, combines elegance with a focus on fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. Its seafront location provides beautiful views, perfect for a special meal in Sitges.

La Nansa, a traditional Catalan restaurant located in the heart of Sitges offers authentic, home-style dishes made with local ingredients. Known for its warm atmosphere, you can enjoy classic dishes like suquet de peix (fish stew), grilled seafood, and arroz a la sitgetana (a local rice dish).

These one-day getaways from Barcelona offer a diverse array of experiences that are sure to leave you refreshed and inspired. Each destination provides the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Whether you’re craving outdoor exploration, culinary delights, or a dose of art and history, these day trips showcase the rich diversity of the Catalonia region beyond Barcelona’s city limits. So pack your bags, hit the road, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure just a short distance from the bustling city.