Barcelona, a city famous for its unique Gaudi architecture and delicious tapas, is a great base to explore the surrounding areas. While the city has plenty to offer, stepping outside its limits shows a whole new side of Catalonia. This guide takes you through the top-day trips from Barcelona, promising unique experiences.
| Place | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Montserrat Monastery | Spiritual site, breathtaking views, hiking opportunities |
| Sitges | Beautiful beaches, historic sites, vibrant LGBT+ scene |
| Girona | Medieval charm, ancient baths, Jewish Quarter |
| Tarragona | Roman ruins, medieval old town, beach |
| Costa Brava | Landscapes, fishing villages, clear waters |
1. Montserrat Monastery
Nestled among the unique mountain peaks of Montserrat, the Montserrat Monastery is a place of spiritual solace. You can learn about its history, see the Black Madonna, and listen to the boys' choir sing. There are also great hiking trails around.
2. Sitges
A short train ride from Barcelona, Sitges is known for its lovely beaches, historic places, and vibrant scene. You can visit the Cau Ferrat Museum, walk around the pretty streets, or relax on its beaches.
3. Girona
Girona is a beautiful city with medieval charm. It has old baths, Gothic churches, and a well-preserved Jewish Quarter. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize it as one of the filming locations.
- Girona's Colorful Houses on the Onyar River
- The imposing Girona Cathedral
- Jewish Quarter’s Narrow Lanes
4. Tarragona
In Tarragona, you can travel back to Roman times. There are ancient ruins like the Tarragona Amphitheatre, the Roman Circus, and the city walls. It also has an old medieval town and a beach.
- Image: Tarragona Amphitheatre
- Image: Tarragona Old Town
5. Costa Brava
For breathtaking landscapes, fisher villages, and clear waters, Costa Brava is perfect. You can go to places like Cadaqués, loved by Salvador Dali, or the hidden coves near Begur and Palafrugell.
- Image: Cadaqués Waterfront
- Image: Begur Beach
- Image: Palafrugell Beaches
Conclusion
Barcelona's surroundings offer many different experiences, from Montserrat's quiet to Tarragona's Roman history and Costa Brava's beautiful beaches. Each place offers a journey into Catalonia's rich history and culture. Make sure to check our Barcelona transport guide for the best ways to get to these places.
Barcelona Transport Guide: Navigating the City and Beyond