Top 3 Day Trips from Barcelona

Discover the treasures of Catalonia

Barcelona is undoubtedly one of the most exciting cities in Europe. With its unique culture, impressive architecture and vibrant city life, the Catalan capital has a lot to offer. But Barcelona also has rich surrounding areas that are perfect for day trips. In this blog article we will highlight the best day trips from Barcelona including Siurana, Montserrat and Girona.

1 – Siurana: A hidden gem in the mountains

Siurana is a hidden gem in the mountains of Catalonia and a paradise for nature lovers and adventurers. The small mountain village sits high on a rocky outcrop and offers spectacular views of the surrounding valleys and gorges. Siurana is a popular destination for climbers looking to scale the area’s challenging rock faces. But hikers and nature lovers will also get their money’s worth in Siurana. The area is of impressive beauty and offers numerous hiking opportunities, including the Camino de Siurana, which takes you to the most beautiful viewpoints. The town itself is picturesque and has a medieval charm. You can stroll through the narrow streets, visit the local church and enjoy traditional Catalan dishes in one of the cozy restaurants.

The easiest way to get to Siurana is by car. The journey from Barcelona takes approximately two hours. Park your car in Cornudella de Montsant. If you follow the main road just outside of the village you can start hiking through vineyards to your right, then along a water reservoir and crossing hills up to the mountain plateau.

There is also a great restaurant that offers a 3-course lunch menu for under 20 Euro per person (and half of a bottle wine is included). Check out: Celler Ronadelles – Cap de Ruc

For us Siurana is an incredible experience where we love to go back every year. Read more about our visit to Siurana.

2 – Montserrat: natural wonders and spirituality

If you love nature and are looking for a day trip from Barcelona that offers both breathtaking landscapes and spiritual experiences, then Montserrat is the place to be. Montserrat is an impressive mountain range located about an hour from Barcelona. The mountain is famous for its bizarre rock formations and the breathtaking views from its summit. It is also an important spiritual place as it is home to the famous Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat.

The monastery complex, which leans against the steep rock faces of the mountain, is a place of pilgrimage and a center of Catalan culture. Visitors can tour the impressive basilica and admire the famous statue of the Black Madonna. Montserrat is also a popular starting point for hiking and climbing tours in the area.

If you would like to visit Montserrat, The Barcelona Feeling offers a private tour: Montserrat Mountain & Monastery. A great day trip where you take the train, climb the mountain in the historic cable car, enjoy great panoramic views and learn more about this spiritual place.

3 – Girona: A historical treasure chest

Girona is a charming city near Barcelona that offers a fascinating insight into Catalonia’s history. With its well-preserved medieval city center and well-preserved city walls, Girona is a place where time seems to have stood still. A stroll through Girona’s narrow streets takes you past impressive churches, picturesque squares and well-preserved Jewish quarters. The Cathedral of Girona, which sits enthroned in an impressive square, is an absolute highlight. From here you have a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding area.

Another highlight of Girona is the famous Staircase of Invisibility, which was used as a filming location in the popular television series “Game of Thrones”. Girona also offers a rich culinary scene where you can experience Catalan cuisine in its full glory.

From Barcelona you can get to Girona in 40 minutes by using the high speed train. If you are traveling by car, it is easy to park in Girona. You can also discover medieval Catalonia. The area around Girona offers many exciting places such as Besalú, Santa Pau or Castellfollit de la Roca.