Barcelona, with its vibrant culture and stunning architecture, is a traveler’s delight. However, the allure of Catalonia extends beyond its capital. The region offers a variety of fantastic day trip options that showcase its scenic landscapes, historical monuments, and charming towns. In this blog post, we’ll explore three captivating destinations for day trips from Barcelona: the mountainous Montserrat, the beachfront town of Sitges, and the historic city of Girona.
Montserrat: A Spiritual Escape
Distance from Barcelona: Approximately 60 km northwest
Overview
Montserrat, meaning ‘serrated mountain’, is renowned for its dramatically jagged mountain peaks. This site is not only a natural wonder but also a spiritual beacon, home to the revered Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey.
What to Do
- Visit the Montserrat Monastery: This Benedictine abbey hosts the famous Black Madonna statue. It is a place of pilgrimage for the faithful and offers stunning architecture against a backdrop of mountainous terrain.
- Hike the Montserrat Natural Park: For outdoor enthusiasts, numerous hiking trails range from easy walks to more challenging treks. The paths offer panoramic views of the monastery and surrounding landscape.
- Listen to the Montserrat Boys Choir: One of the oldest in Europe, the choir performs at the basilica, typically around midday. Check the schedule in advance as this is a popular attraction.
Getting There
The most scenic route to Montserrat is by taking the R5 train from Barcelona’s Plaça Espanya to Aeri de Montserrat, where you can ride the cable car up the mountain. Alternatively, the Cremallera (rack railway) offers a different but equally picturesque journey from the Monistrol de Montserrat train station.
Sitges: Sun, Sea, and Sand
Distance from Barcelona: About 35 km southwest
Overview
Sitges is a charming coastal town famous for its beautiful beaches, bustling nightlife, and an inclusive atmosphere. It’s a perfect spot for those looking to relax by the sea or explore cultural sites.
What to Do
- Beach Hopping: From family-friendly beaches to quieter coves, Sitges offers a variety of sandy spots. Platja de Sant Sebastià and Platja de la Ribera are among the most popular.
- Explore the Cau Ferrat Museum: Once the home and studio of artist Santiago Rusiñol, this museum now displays a collection of his works and pieces from other artists like El Greco and Picasso.
- Enjoy the Nightlife: Sitges is also well-known for its lively gay nightlife scene, with numerous bars and clubs open until the early hours.
Getting There
Sitges is easily accessible by train from Barcelona’s Sants Station, with a journey time of approximately 30 minutes. Trains run frequently throughout the day.
Girona: A Journey Through History
Distance from Barcelona: Roughly 100 km northeast
Overview
Girona is a gem of medieval architecture, known for its well-preserved Jewish Quarter, vibrant colored houses along the Onyar River, and historical sites like the Girona Cathedral.
What to Do
- Walk Along the City Walls: For the best views of Girona and the surrounding area, walk the Passeig de la Muralla, the restored ancient city walls.
- Explore the Jewish Quarter: Known as El Call, this area is one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe and reflects the rich history of Jewish life in medieval Girona.
- Visit Girona Cathedral: Famous for its wide Gothic nave — the widest of its kind in the world — the cathedral is a must-visit for history and architecture enthusiasts.
Getting There
Regular trains from Barcelona’s Sants Station will get you to Girona in about an hour. Consider buying a return ticket to save on travel costs.
