Barcelona Day Trips

Best Day Trips from Barcelona

Barcelona is a fantastic city, but sometimes you need to get out of the urban jungle and explore what lies beyond. Fortunately, there are plenty of amazing day trip options from Barcelona that offer a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation. Here are some of the best day trips from Barcelona:

1. Girona

  • Distance: 37 km (23 miles), approximately 30-40 minutes by car or train
  • Must-see attractions: Colorful houses along the Onyar River, Girona Cathedral, Jewish Quarter

This charming medieval town is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and architecture. Take a stroll along the picturesque river, visit the iconic Girona Cathedral, and get lost in the narrow streets of the Jewish Quarter.

2. Costa Brava

  • Distance: Various beaches within 30-60 km (19-37 miles), approximately 30-60 minutes by car
  • Must-see attractions: Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, Blanes

Escape to the Mediterranean coast and enjoy a day of sun, sand, and sea. Choose from a variety of beautiful beaches, such as Lloret de Mar or Tossa de Mar, or explore the charming coastal towns like Blanes.

3. Montserrat

  • Distance: 60 km (37 miles), approximately 1 hour by car or train
  • Must-see attractions: Montserrat Monastery, Black Virgin of Montserrat

Located about an hour north of Barcelona, Montserrat is a unique mountain range with breathtaking views and a rich cultural heritage. Visit the monastery and see the famous Black Virgin of Montserrat.

4. Wine Country (Penedès)

  • Distance: Various wineries within 30-60 km (19-37 miles), approximately 30-60 minutes by car
  • Must-see attractions: Bodegas Torres, Codorníu, Caves Raventós

Indulge in a day of wine tasting and vineyard exploration in the Penedès region. Visit renowned wineries like Bodegas Torres or Codorníu, and learn about the production process while enjoying the scenic countryside.

5. Sitges

  • Distance: 35 km (22 miles), approximately 30-40 minutes by car or train
  • Must-see attractions: Beaches, Maricel Museum, Cau Ferrat Museum

This picturesque coastal town is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Enjoy the beautiful beaches, visit the Maricel Museum to see works by famous Catalan artists, and explore the charming old town.

6. Tarragona

  • Distance: 97 km (60 miles), approximately 1 hour by car or train
  • Must-see attractions: Roman Amphitheatre, Tarragona Cathedral, Mediterranean beaches

Step back in time and visit the ancient Roman city of Tarragona, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, Tarragona Cathedral, and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean coastline.

7. Colònia Güell

  • Distance: 25 km (16 miles), approximately 30-40 minutes by car or train
  • Must-see attractions: Gaudí’s Crypt, Colònia Güell Museum

Discover the lesser-known but equally fascinating work of Antoni Gaudí in Colònia Güell. Visit the stunning crypt and museum to learn more about this unique industrial colony.

These day trips offer a mix of culture, nature, and relaxation, and are easily accessible from Barcelona by car, train, or bus. So why not take a break from the city and explore what lies beyond?