barcelona day trips to france

Day Trip From Barcelona To France (Tour With Pickup)

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Day Trips from Barcelona to France: Exploring the French Riviera

• 2024-03-07 2024-03-07

Barcelona, the vibrant city located on the northeastern coast of Spain, offers not only its own unique charm but also serves as a great starting point for exploring the surrounding areas, including the beautiful regions of France. In this blog post, we will take you on a journey to discover some amazing day trips from Barcelona to France, specifically focusing on the French Riviera region.

Nice, often referred to as the “Queen of the French Riviera,” is a must-visit destination. Just a scenic train ride away from Barcelona, it offers a perfect blend of charm, history, and stunning landscapes.

Once in Nice, make sure to explore the famous Promenade des Anglais, a picturesque waterfront promenade. Stroll along the pebbly beaches and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Visit the Old Town (Vieux Nice) with its narrow streets filled with colorful buildings, shops, and cafes. Discover the stunning views from Castle Hill (Colline du Château) and immerse yourself in the local culture at the Cours Saleya Market.

Cannes, known worldwide for its annual film festival, is another fantastic day trip option. Just an hour’s train journey from Barcelona, it offers a taste of luxury and glamour.

While in Cannes, take a leisurely walk along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, lined with upscale hotels and designer boutiques. Visit the Palais des Festivals, where the renowned film festival takes place. Relax on the sandy beaches, or explore the charming old town of Le Suquet, offering breathtaking views of Cannes and the sea.

For a taste of luxury and opulence, a day trip to Monaco is a must. Located just a short train ride from Barcelona, Monaco is the second smallest country in the world but packed with grandeur.

Upon arrival, visit the famous Casino de Monte-Carlo, a symbol of Monaco’s wealth and elegance. Take a stroll in the lavish gardens of the Prince’s Palace and watch the Changing of the Guard ceremony. Explore the charming streets of Monaco-Ville with its historical buildings and charming shops. And don’t forget to indulge in some people-watching at the luxurious Port Hercules, where you will find impressive yachts.

Antibes, a charming coastal town located between Cannes and Nice, offers a mix of history, culture, and beautiful sandy beaches.

When in Antibes, explore the picturesque old town and take a walk along the impressive ramparts, offering panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea. Visit the Picasso Museum located in the Château Grimaldi, which showcases an extensive collection of Picasso’s works. Spend some time at the sandy Plage de la Gravette beach or explore the vibrant local market, Marché Provençal, known for its fresh produce and colorful stalls.

5. Saint-Tropez

If you’re in the mood for a glamorous and trendy day trip, head to Saint-Tropez. Accessible by ferry or bus from Barcelona, this exclusive seaside resort town is famous for its luxury lifestyle and beautiful beaches.

While in Saint-Tropez, visit the iconic Vieux Port (Old Port), where you can see luxurious yachts and enjoy a coffee at a waterfront café. Explore the charming streets of the old town and discover local boutiques and art galleries. Spend some time at one of the famous beach clubs, such as Nikki Beach or Pampelonne Beach, known for their vibrant atmosphere and celebrity sightings.

Embarking on day trips from Barcelona to the French Riviera offers a wonderful opportunity to explore diverse and captivating destinations. Whether you prefer historical sites, breathtaking landscapes, or luxurious experiences, each of these day trips provides a unique and memorable adventure. So, plan your itinerary, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable journey from Catalonia to the French Riviera!

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The 10 Best Day Trips from Barcelona

Planning a trip to Barcelona and want to explore more of Catalonia?  There are some incredible places to visit near Barcelona so I’ve brought together 10 ideas for fabulous day trips from Barcelona.  From picturesque beaches to quaint mountain villages, check out my recommendations for the best Barcelona day trips just an hour or two from the city!

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Planning your Barcelona Day Trips

When choosing which places to visit near Barcelona, you need to think about what interests you the most – do you prefer exploring historical landmarks, picturesque natural landscapes, enjoying delicious food and wine, or checking out vibrant cultural hotspots?

It’s equally important to factor in the time required to get to each destination, and how much time you will need to explore, so you can make the most of your day without feeling rushed.

Whether you opt for public transportation, your own car or hiring a car, choosing the most suitable and efficient means of getting around will ensure a smooth and enjoyable day trip from Barcelona

The train network in Catalonia can be a great way to get around and you can visit various places up and down the coast from Barcelona as well as inland – as long as everything you want to do there will be easily accessible, and the train times match what you are looking for.  Buses can also be an option to travel to the Costa Brava where the train lines don’t reach.

For other destinations it might be easier to hire a car in Barcelona and drive out of the city to explore at your own pace, without worrying about missing the train on the way back!  This will also give you more flexibility to stop off at places along the way.

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Another option is to join a tour from Barcelona, and let someone else plan your journey and itinerary – all you have to do is enjoy it!  Day tours from Barcelona can fit a lot into a day so are a great option if you don’t have long to spend in Barcelona and want to maximise your time.

While tours will usually cost more than doing everything yourself, you can see and do more in one day as the guide has planned the itinerary to perfection and will take you everywhere you need to go without wasting any time waiting for buses or trains.

Bearing all of that in mind, here are my top recommendations for the best day trips from Barcelona by train, bus or car and day tours from Barcelona for you to choose from!

Know Before You Go to Barcelona

Before travelling to Barcelona, make sure you book accommodation and popular attractions ASAP as hotels and tickets can sell out.

⭐ TOP 3 BARCELONA ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN ADVANCE:

1: Park Guell Admission Ticket - colourful mosaic terraces and gorgeous views

2: Sagrada Familia Skip the Line Ticket  - a must-see in Barcelona!

3: Casa Batlló Entry with Self-Audioguide Tour - stunning Modernist Building & rooftop

🛌 MY FAVOURITE HOTELS IN BARCELONA:

$$ : Sercotel Hotel Rosellon - Incredible view of the Sagrada Familia from some rooms and the terrace

$$:  H10 Madison 4* Sup - top location with rooftop pool & view of the Gothic Cathedral

$ : Chic & Basic Lemon Boutique Hotel - great value hotel near Plaça Catalunya

❗BEWARE OF PICKPOCKETS❗

Although Barcelona is a safe city, pickpockets are a problem here, particularly in popular tourist areas and on the metro.  Use a  theft-proof backpack and consider getting some hidden-pocket clothing to keep your belongings safe.

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The best day trips from barcelona by train.

There are some amazing places close to Barcelona that you can visit easily and cheaply by train.  Most trains will depart from Sants Station, which is the main train station in Barcelona, but other regional trains might depart from other stations in the city like Plaça Catalunya, Plaça de Espanya, Passeig de Gràcia or Estació de França, so check carefully which station is best for your trip.

Girona is a charming town just 40 minutes from Barcelona by train, making it a fabulous day trip destination.  You could easily spend more time here though, so consider turning a day trip into a weekend!

One of the most striking things about Girona is the blend of architectural styles and the well-preserved medieval centre with narrow cobblestone streets.  The iconic Basilica of Sant Feliu, and the impressive Cathedral of Girona are both must-sees, as is meandering through the old Jewish Quarter.

Walk along the Onyar River with colourful houses overlooking the water, and take some photos of the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, a red iron bridge designed by Gustav Eiffel.  A stroll around the old city walls offers more lovely views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Girona was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones so fans will be excited to spot familiar places in the Old Town as you explore!  Girona is a lovely place to explore at any time of year, but the Flower Festival in May is very popular.

How to Get to Girona by Train from Barcelona

Take the high-speed train (the Avant or Ave) from Barcelona-Sants, towards Figueres Vilafant, and depart at Girona.  Book tickets online in advance for the best deals and to guarantee your preferred train, or buy tickets at Sants station.  Girona train station is in the centre of Girona, about 15 minutes walk from the Old Town area.

A visit to Montserrat and its Monastery is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona by train or you can join one of the many group tours which go there.  “Montserrat” literally means “serrated mountain” in Catalan and refers to the shape of the mountain range, which resembles the edge of a serrated saw.

Montserrat has lots of hiking trails to explore and stunning views of the Catalan countryside.  However, most people come to Montserrat to visit the Benedictine abbey, Santa Maria de Montserrat, which is home to the Virgin of Montserrat , a statue of a Black Madonna and one of the patron saints of Catalonia.

You’ll need to book tickets in advance to see the Madonna, but the train tickets can be bought on the day.

If you prefer to join a guided tour to Montserrat from Barcelona, there are various options which might include a meal and wine tasting as well as a visit to Montserrat and the Monastery.  Read the tour details carefully to see what is included.

How to Get to Montserrat by Train from Barcelona

Take the R5 Line from Plaça Espanya towards Manresa-Baixador, which is operated by Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC).  You can buy your ticket at the station in Plaça Espanya, including the extra journey to the top of the mountain either by cable car or rack railway.

Both options are the same price, and both have spectacular views, but you’ll need to decide which one you prefer before you buy your ticket if you want to save money on the combined ticket option.  Otherwise, you can buy separate tickets when you arrive.

For the cable car, get off the train at Aeri de Montserrat, and for the rack railway, depart at Monistrol de Montserrat, which is the next stop.  The train journey takes about an hour, plus the ride to the top.

Both options offer stunning views, so choose the one that suits you best.  An alternative, if you’re feeling active, is to hike up the mountain from Monistrol de Montserrat, which is about an hour and a half of hiking uphill.

If you’re looking to soak up the sun and take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean, you ought to set your sights (and flip-flops) in the direction of Sitges. This picturesque coastal town just south of Barcelona offers stunning beaches, complete with shimmering crystal-clear waters and powdery sand.

But Sitges is more than just a beach paradise – it’s also steeped in culture, art, and history. Sitges is packed with charming streets, bustling restaurants, and enough activities to keep you entertained all day long, and well into the night too!

Check what time the last train back to Barcelona is as you may want to spend the night here – Sitges has a buzzing nightlife, and is particularly welcoming to the LGBTQI community.  The Carnival in February is a huge party that is well worth the trip if you visit Barcelona in February !

Whether you’re an avid sunbather, a water sports enthusiast, or a curious wanderer, Sitges has got you covered. It’s an easy train ride and a lovely day trip from Barcelona.

How to Get to Sitges by Train from Barcelona

Take the R2S train towards Sant Vicenç de Calders, which you can take from Estació de França, Passeig de Gràcia or Sants.  The journey from Sants takes 35 minutes, or a bit longer from the other stations, and you don’t need to pre-book a ticket, just buy one at the station.  Sitges station is close to the town centre and about 8 minutes’ walk from the beach.

If you’re interested in stepping back in time and immersing yourself in a world filled with ancient ruins, Tarragona is just the place for you. Located on the coast an hour south of Barcelona, this charming city is a treasure trove of Roman amphitheatres, centuries-old churches, and impressive monasteries.

As you wander through the winding streets, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another era altogether. But don’t just take my word for it – come and explore Tarragona for yourself!  Make sure you sit on the left-hand side of the train as you’ll be able to gaze out at the Med on your journey too.

Once you’re in Tarragona, take a stroll down the Rambla Nova, where you’ll usually find a market or festival going on.  Make sure you go as far as the Monument als Castellers, a sculpture dedicated to the famous Human Towers of Catalonia.

The Roman ruins are a big attraction here, with a well-preserved Amphitheatre and an Aqueduct just two of the many highlights to explore.  The Cathedral is also impressive but simply exploring the streets of the old town can happily fill a few hours.  There’s a wide sandy beach here too if you fancy a dip in the sea once you’ve finished exploring!

How to Get to Tarragona by Train from Barcelona

There are various regional trains which go south from Barcelona Sants and pass through Tarragona, so check the timetables for the dates you want to make sure you get the right train.  The journey takes just over an hour.

Figueres is a small city located just over an hour north of Barcelona by high-speed train, and a little longer by car. A day trip from Barcelona to Figueres is perfect for travellers who want to experience art and Catalan culture, and take in the beautiful scenery of Catalonia.

One of the most popular attractions in Figueres is the Teatre-Museu Dalí. Here, visitors can admire works by acclaimed surrealist painter Salvador Dalí and learn more about his life and career, housed in an impressive building designed by Dalí himself.

Another interesting place to visit in Figueres is the Castle of Sant Ferran, which was built in the 18 th century as a defensive fortification against French occupation forces. Today, visitors can explore the castle grounds and marvel at its impressive architecture. The nearby Citadel Museum also offers an interesting look into the history of the castle and its many battles.

The city is also home to the Figueres Museum of Art, which showcases a range of modern works from local and international artists. Additionally, visitors can take in live music, theatre, and dance performances at the Figueres Municipal Theatre.

How to Get to Figueres by Train from Barcelona

There are two train stations in Figueres, Figueres-Vilafant which is the high-speed station and Figueras which is the slower regional train station.  Figuras is closer to the centre of the town and to the Dali museum, but the journey can take up to an hour longer than the fast trains to Figueres-Vilafant.

If you decide to take the fast train, it’s best to book a ticket in advance on the Renfe train website.

Cava Tasting in Sant Sadurni d’Anoia

Sant Sadurni is in the heart of the Penedes Wine Region and home to some of the best Cava producers in Catalonia.  Cava is the Catalan equivalent of champagne, but I actually prefer cava to champagne and love a glass of bubbles or two.

There are lots of caves or wine cellars to visit, including two of the most famous brands – Freixenet and Codorníu where you can take a wine tasting tour, and lots of smaller producers where you can go to sample some of their cava and have a meal as well.  If you enjoy a barbecue, some cellars allow you to bring your own food to cook yourself on their barbecues, and you buy their cava to drink with your meal.

One of my favourites is Cava Jaume Giró i Giró where I’ve been with my friends to cook barbecues of calçots (spring onions) and botifarra (Catalan sausage) with several bottles of cava!

How to Get to Sant Sadurni d’Anoia by Train from Barcelona

Take the R4 line from Sants Station towards Sant Vicenç de Calders or Vilafranca del Penedes.  The journey takes around 50 minutes, pre-booking is not required, you can buy your tickets from Sants Station.

The Best Day Trips from Barcelona by Car

Costa brava.

An hour and a half northeast of Barcelona, this rugged coast is full of stunning beaches and cliffs. Spend the day exploring the many coves or take a boat out to view the coastline from the sea.

There are lots of places you can stop in Costa Brava, and a few where the trainline does reach, like Sant Pol de Mar and Calella.  Heading further north to Blanes, a car is easier here so you can continue to follow the coast, if you’re confident with winding roads!

Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar are popular resorts just over an hour’s drive from Barcelona, both with beautiful beaches.  You can also go hiking in the Massís de Cadiretes mountain preserve area nearby.  One of my favourite places is Platja d’Aro, which has a long stretch of golden sand.  It is quite touristy but to the north end of the beach there are quieter coves to discover, like Cala Cap Roig.

You could also combine some beach time with the city of Girona if you want to cram in as much as possible.  Girona is about 40 minutes drive inland from Platja d’Aro.  Most of the day tours to Girona also include some time exploring the coastal beaches.

Cadaqués is a beautiful and charming coastal town in the northern part of the Costa Brava region of Catalonia, perfect for a day trip from Barcelona by car.  It’s a two-hour drive from Barcelona, so probably a bit too far to visit by public transport if you only have one day.

I’ve given Cadaqués it’s own day trip as it is a relatively long drive from Barcelona so you won’t have much time to stop off along the way unless it is a real whistle-stop tour.  Cadaqués is a postcard-perfect port town, featuring winding cobbled streets lined with whitewashed buildings surrounding a stunning turquoise bay, all bathed in the warm Mediterranean sun.

It’s easy to picture yourself enjoying a leisurely stroll through the town, admiring its unique architecture and breathtaking views of the ocean. The town is especially known for its gorgeous beaches, making it the ideal spot to relax and soak up some sun.

If you’re looking for a bit more activity, there are plenty of outdoor activities like hiking and kayaking in Cadaqués that will give you a chance to explore the stunning scenery of this coastal paradise. You can also check out the town’s many art galleries, with works from some of Spain’s most renowned artists, or visit its historical monastery.

Cadaqués is also famous for being the home of Salvador Dalí, who lived in the town for many years in a waterfront house he designed and built.  The house is now a museum, and a must-see when you come to Cadaqués.

Top Day Tours from Barcelona

Some things are best left to the professionals, so sit back and relax on one of these day tours from Barcelona:

Penedes Wine Region

Penedes is a great place to visit on a day trip from Barcelona, and even better with someone else driving! This famous wine region is the home of cava (Catalan sparkling wine) and you can visit some of the best wineries in Spain here to taste cava as well as red, white and rose wines.

Day tours from Barcelona to El Penedes usually include visits to a couple of wineries and a nice lunch, and Penedes is often combined with a visit to Montserrat so you can combine two of the best day trips from Barcelona into one!

You can find more wine tours from Barcelona in this article , but these are a few of my favourites:

3 Countries in One Day: Visit Andorra and France from Barcelona

This is a popular day tour from Barcelona mainly to tick off visiting Andorra and to say you’ve seen 3 countries in one day.  Andorra is a long (4 hour) drive from Barcelona, and you won’t get much time in each place you visit along the way, but if you want to visit 3 countries in one day then this is the tour for you!

Claire Sturzaker

I'm Claire and I love Barcelona! I first came to Barcelona as a student almost 20 years ago, and adore this city. I want to share all of my insider tips to help you to enjoy Barcelona as much as I do. If you want to visit Barcelona and have an amazing time – you are in the right place!

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The 6 Best Day Trips From Barcelona

By Gemma Askham and Jessica Benavides Canepa

Barcelona may be Catalonia ’s headline star, but don’t dismiss the rest of the region as supporting acts. North, just shy of the French border, the wild Costa Brava coastline was the creative fuel for Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Truman Capote. Here, Cadaqués remains a hypnotically beautiful waterside address, while colorful Begur is a gateway to the arts, and to the art of splashing in sparkling rockpools. In Girona, you’ll likely recognize the architecture from Game of Thrones , but its exceptional gastronomic scene, heaving in Michelin stars, continues to release new chapters. Those hungry for the great outdoors will be intrigued to learn that the Catalan Pyrenees make skiing in Spain a realistic offering in winter, as well as cycling year-round.

Venture south, and the region of Tarragona pairs Roman history ( UNESCO -honored, no less) with access to wineries and the luxurious wine-focused hotels of Priorat and Montsant. If you’d prefer to stay local, Sitges serves up beaches and a fun, liberal-minded spirit. Spoiled for choice? This comprehensive guide to Barcelona’s best day trips will direct you where to go, where to stay, and what to do in each.

Read our complete Barcelona travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

All listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you book something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Casa-Museu Salvador Dalí Arrow

Mere meters from the ocean’s edge, a white-walled villa in Port Lligat looks dreamy, but nothing out of the ordinary—until you go inside. Artist Salvador Dalí bought this place in 1930 as a single fisherman’s hut, expanding it, absorbing the neighbors’ cabins, and creating a fantastical web of bony corridors that’s like the wandering tendrils of a creature. Until 1982, it served as Dalí’s primary space for working, living, and socializing—the isolation of the ocean on one side, and his wacky, eccentric life on the inside. It’s peppered with personal mementos that make your mind boggle about his life—a taxidermy polar bear (stuffed, word has it, by Dalí himself) and several sofas shaped like lips.

Compartir Arrow

Hear that it’s run by three El Bulli alumni, a trio that also heads up the two-Michelin-starred Disfrutar in Barcelona , and you’d be forgiven for feeling a bit… stiff. It’s bound to be fancy, right? The sight of an airy outdoor terrace, full of orange trees and low-slung lamps and big, hearty laughs will put your mind at ease. Compartir means "to share" in Spanish, so every plate is designed with fork-to-fork combat in mind. The vibe is laid back—but not so laid back that you’d let the last razor clam go without a fight. Book ahead and it’s a great group spot. Not the cheapest, granted, but they get the basics (and the not-so-basic) dead right.

Dalí Theatre-Museum Arrow

The Theatre-Museum in Dalí’s hometown, Figueres, isn’t just a wacky place to store his works, it’s considered the artist’s last great work: he chose the spot and designed the build (which is actually a rebuild of ruins of the city’s Municipal Theatre, bombed in the Spanish Civil War). Today, it’s thought of as the largest surrealist object in the world. At its most simple, it follows a linear trajectory through his work—but this is Dalí, and nothing is really linear. The best space to appreciate his surrealist headspace is within the epic glass dome, made by architect Emilio Pérez Piñero, and now an icon of Figueres. Of Dalí’s 1500 works inside, there’s a taste of every side of his character: the humor (see ‘Soft Self-Portrait With Grilled Bacon’), his love for wife Gala (‘Galarina’), his coastal inspiration (the remarkably normal looking ‘Port Alguer’) and, of course, the wacky.

Steph Koyfman

Kaitlyn McInnis

Andrea Cheng

Pam LeBlanc

Arrels Hotel Cadaqués Arrow

You may need to close your eyes before arrival; such are the swirling, neck-straining mountain roads that make you feel like you’re traveling in the original DeLorean. When you open them, perched sky high above the vista of Cadaqués, you simply utter something else very cheesy, like: “wow."" Then double-check that you put your car’s handbrake on. The hotel—a series of white villas amid cacti—stretches out like a tiny hamlet. Come for the incredible breakfast, hospitality, and view, and stay for the swimming pool with gleaming turquoise waters and sun deck.

Camí De Ronda Arrow

It says something about a walk when it has its own Instagram account, and the small matter of 20,000 Followers. Camí de Ronda is spectacular, though: A coastal trail that scales rocky cliff tops, glides past secret coves with water the color of spa pools, and brings civilization to tiny beach villages. If you like hiking, Camí de Ronda is essential. Even if you’re a reluctant walker, the views—we’re talking blue sea on steroids—will persuade you. For the time-short, start in Cadaqués and walk in the other direction. There are short climbs that still deliver the photographic goods.

Narita Cadaqués Arrow

The cozily packed tables of Narita’s terrace may look onto the main square of Cadaqués, but this is no tourist trap rolling out box-tick tapas. The Japanese-infused menu is probably the most unique you’ll find in Cadaqués, while the interior combines the informal buzz of an Izakaya (a casual Japanese tavern where booze and bites flow freely) with the warmth of a Mediterranean kitchen. Visually, that translates as a snug affair where chefs cook open-plan, jars of ferments are dotted around like antiquities, and bottles of natural wine with zany labels line up like rows of naughty school children.

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In Catalan, ‘baluard’ translates as bastion, so it makes sense to find this restaurant built into part of an old sea wall. That also gives you an idea of just how close to the ocean it is. Beg for the table by the window and the fishing boats and soft wave ripples practically feel within touching distance. Though at least half your eye-line will consist of a thick band of blue sky. Inside, the décor is simple and rustic: white walls with paintings of the ocean, and cozy arched ceilings that make it feel like a den. There’s nothing overly fancy in terms of the cooking—most simply grilled or oven-baked—but that’s the point. When the fish is that fresh you don’t need bells and whistles to compensate. Go for lunch, for the freshest fish of your trip. Any dining companion will be happy with that.

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In its day—thankfully, we’re talking Roman times—Tarragona’s amphitheater was the scene of bloody, spear-launching battles between gladiators. There were even public executions. Today, it’s more about taking aim at the neighboring sea view than one of your compatriots, but the site is steeped in gruesome history. These days, around two thirds of the seating complex remains, but you can wander into the action pit and under the archways where fighters would have unleashed their battle charge. The backdrop of the glistening Mediterranean adds a special (less gory) touch.

Terra Dominicata Arrow

An on-site winery, vineyard picnics, and barrel-shaped spa cabins quench guests’ love of wine, and of luxury—this former monastery has a holier than thou attitude to all things indulgent and delicious. You’re only two hours’ drive from Barcelona, but it feels like another world. The hotel’s low-lying pink buildings, barely touched since their 12 th -century incarnation, hunker down in front of the wild, rocky, Mars-like mountains of Priorat. It’s incredible that a landscape that appears so barren can produce some of the most appreciated red wines in the world. With that in mind, the adults-only crowd is certainly here to get their lips dirty. It’s also a place for catching up on simple pleasures—a wine-fueled game of cards, say, or a few laps in the ultra-private, slope-flanked pool. Terra Dominicata is a spot to unwind in, and to be seen in, so the look is outdoorsy—but make it fashion.

PortAventura Arrow

Tarragona’s PortAventura World is the where for the scares. Think of it as Spain’s take on Disney: heavy on the cheesy branding, extortionately priced food, but a really, really good time. No ageism here. Three rides top the thrill bill: Furius Baco, a catapult that flings you 135km/h in three seconds; Shambhala, a 76-meter-high rollercoaster; and Hurakan Condor, a pole that sends you plummeting, stomach-in-mouth, on a 100-meter freefall. But the newest attraction, which opened in June 2023, is Uncharted: The Enigma of Penitence. Inspired by the Uncharted movie (an action-adventure starring Tom Holland and Antonio Banderas), it takes place indoors, in pitch black, and uses audio-visuals to immerse you in its fantasy land. As for the physical journey? Brace yourself for a 150-meter freefall, as well as Europe’s first sideways drop.

Platja del Fangar Arrow

An hour’s drive south of Tarragona, or two below bustling Barcelona, it’s hard to imagine that you’ll find a nature reserve of rice plains, flamingos, and semi-desert. Yet that’s exactly what the Ebro Delta gifts you with: a vast strip of tropical-style sand that’s simply pristine. There are wind-rippled sand dunes and a landscape that changes color with the rice crop—bare and blue in spring, lush green in summer, and burnt yellow as fall comes. Bizarre as it sounds, this is one of the few beaches where you don’t really come to get in the water—but to look at the water. The colors at sunset are paint-palette spectacular. Platja del Fangar has no services, so it’s vital to come prepared. That means more food and water than you think you’ll need, heavy-duty sunscreen, a windproof jacket, sunglasses, even a scarf to offer respite to your grit-speckled face.

Siurana Arrow

The body-flinging hairpin bends here are worth it: if there was a list of all the pretty hamlets in Spain, Siurana would surely be in the top 10. Its location is dramatic—teetering high on limestone cliffs, above a reservoir of the same name that’s popular with water-sports fans when the water level allows. As for sights: you’ll find the remains of a Moorish castle, an impressively preserved Romanesque church, as well as prolific views (notably beautiful at sunset) over the mountain ranges of Montsant. The village of Siurana may have less than 50 inhabitants, but the charm of its quaint medieval streets is plentiful. It also has its own denomination of extra virgin olive oil, DOP Siurana, if you’re looking for a unique souvenir. Siurana’s most famous feature is a lookout point called Salt de la Reina Mora. Translated, it means “the jump of the Moorish queen” for Queen Abdelazia who, rather than be captured during the fall of the Moorish stronghold, decided to leap from the summit on her spooked horse—and it’s rumored that an imprint of the horse’s shoe can still be found in the rock here—which adds to the fantastical nature of this fairy-tale-like village

Gran Hotel Mas d’en Bruno Arrow

This is wine country at its most sumptuous. All 24 suites have double-sided fireplaces, vineyard views, beamed ceilings, red marble baths, and modular-inspired furniture that extends the hotel’s obsession with curved, sinuous forms. Several rooms have outdoor patios, while others have deep-soaking tubs looking out over the mountainous scenery, but for total immersion in place, stay inside the Atelier annex, which fronts endless miles of vines owned by the Clos de L’Obac winery. Resist the urge to go and steal a grape and uncork a bottle from the excellent minibar, which features wines from Clos de L’Obac along with other well-known producers like Bodegas Mas Alta along with herbal infusions from Tarragona-based Chas & Chas Tea Co. The best of Priorat is within striking distance; all of the region’s wineries are on your doorstep, and the hotel can set up tours and masterclasses with all 114 producers. Borrow an E-bike and motor up pine-covered hills to the 12th-century Carthusian monastery of Scala Dei, now a museum complex with cloisters, gardens, and churches.

Girona Cathedral Arrow

Girona Cathedral is so colossal that if you look up from the bottom of the stairs, people outside the entrance appear ant-like. To talk stats, the central part of the structure is actually the widest Gothic nave in the world. Though, these days, it’s not so much nave-league-tables that make the cathedral famous as its starring role in 'Game of Thrones.' (Yeah, that tiny show.) Fans will spot it as the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing. And that huge stone staircase up? A frequent sight in season six, as are many streets and squares in Girona—or, rather, Braavos. Built between the 11th and 18th centuries, its walls and spaces are a real patchwork of styles: there’s our record-breaking Gothic nave, a Romanesque cloister and tower, while the steps and the façade are certainly Baroque. It’s pretty staggering to behold.

Barri Vell de Girona Arrow

Admire the colored houses along the River Onyar and you could easily think you’d woken up in Amsterdam or Copenhagen rather than Girona. They are a sunrise in brick form—all yellows, reds and ochres. They don’t signal the start of the day, however, but the start of the Barri Vell, Girona’s old quarter. Cross one of the bridges (the red iron Pont Palanques Vermelles is the most famous, built by Gustave Eiffel, no less) and everything starts to get less structured. Streets turn into pedestrianized passageways, time rewinds, and life appears to slow before your eyes. For any visitor (and local alike), Girona is a wanderer’s city. Barri Vell is ripe for exploring; a fascinating mix of centuries of architecture. Hotel Palau Fugit is a beautifully designed boutique base whose courtyard screams cocktail hour, while restaurant Dit i Fet is run by two creative young disciples of the three-Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca.

Parc Natural De La Zona Volcànica De La Garrotxa Arrow

An hour’s drive northwest of Girona will present a word you never thought you’d see in mainland Spain: volcanoes. Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park actually has 40 of them (no longer active, you’ll be relieved to hear). Volcà del Croscat, the last to erupt, did so (a rather reassuring) 11,000 years ago. The area is still considered seismically active though, with earthquakes in the early 1900s. Scary stuff aside, it makes for a spectacular national park: the ground bursts into giant forested domes and misty valleys, while tiny villages perch perilously on cliff edges. For hikers and cyclists, it’s a dream.

El Celler de Can Roca Arrow

To call it beautifully lit doesn’t sound dramatic enough. After all, this is one of the best places to eat in the world, according to the annual World’s Best 50 Restaurants list. It’s been number one twice, to the point where its success excludes it from being entered again. And, while we’re talking numbers, it also has three Michelin stars. But, to bring it back to lighting—if anywhere was going to have filter-perfect light (surely today’s most valued commodity), it would be here. Multiple walls of the dining area are glass, facing a tranquil inner garden. It’s a beautiful and considered space, the staff move with a ghost-like footfall so as not to disturb you, while the airiness has a clever way of making you feel like you’re the only diner there. Trust us: the waiting list proves otherwise.

La Fàbrica Girona Arrow

Owned by former Tour de France cyclist Christian Meier and his wife Amber, La Fàbrica is an institution for Girona’s ever-mounting cycling crowd. Thanks to a rider-friendly combo of flat roads, ocean-side routes, mountains over 1000 meters for altitude training and, word has it, motorists that generally don’t try to mow you down, Girona’s terrain lures pro athletes and bike hobbyists alike. Since its 2015 opening, La Fàbrica’s cycle-friendly facilities (bike parking, water-filling stations, CO2 cartridges for flats) have secured its position as THE refuel spot for the saddle sore. As such, the open-plan diner space is full of celebratory cycle-inspired knickknacks, such as bikes mounted high on the walls as if they were stag heads. You won’t feel left out if you don’t rock a helmet, cleats, and a cycling jersey, just perhaps a little unfit. The packed bike rack outside is testament to its core crowd, but the quiet, roomy outdoor terrace (there’s space for seven tables) is extremely popular with all ages and sporting levels.

Tramuntana Girona Arrow

With a perfect position at one end of the poppy-red Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles), you’ll spot Tramuntana cafe by the throng of people perched outside. Inside, this tiny-but-colorful store has a big personality. For starters: there’s a mirror with a big blue smiley face on it. The coffee-making magic takes place along one side. Along the other, there’s a floor-to-ceiling party of Spanish natural wines with labels as funky as the wild stuff inside them, craft beers (including alcohol-free), teas, candles, and art prints. Duck your head down one level to find a chamber of ceramics. The standout quality of the coffee is the variety. Even ordering something simple like an americano comes with options—play it safe with flavors or go for a funky blend; then there’s filter coffee, as well as cold brew. Coffee beans are cherry-picked from pioneering local roasteries, such as Valencia’s female-run Bluebell Coffee, and two of Barcelona’s best known—Right Side and SlowMov.

Hotel Boutique Casa Cacao Girona Arrow

Some stay overnight at this property purely for the breakfast. After all, this is the hotel sibling of the three-Michelin-starred restaurant, El Celler de Can Roca. There’s also a cacao workshop next door—visible (but not smell-able) via a curious glass wall in the lobby—as well as top quality non-edibles, such as all-suite bedrooms and a garden-inspired roof terrace. Overnighters are here for the charms of Girona herself; whether your goal is stomach-first or sights-first, the terrace is the place to be: It feels unexpectedly vast compared to the size of the hotel, and it boasts some of the best views of Girona’s colorful riverside apartment buildings and the Old Town. Since opening, the terrace has earned a cult following among locals, too, with plenty of residents popping up for a sceney brunch.

Gala Dalí Castle of Púbol Arrow

The Gala Dalí Castle is all about two people—eccentric Surrealist Salvador Dalí and his Russian wife, Gala. At its most sincere, it’s a private declaration of their unique take on love: there are plush velvets, lavish tapestries, a piano, and one exquisite painted ceiling consisting of birds, the moon and fantastically beautiful architecture. Gala is even buried in the basement’s mausoleum, dressed in red Dior. But it’s equally weird, too. Take the garden—which has sculptures of elephants with legs like mosquitos.

Restaurant at Hostal Sa Rascassa Arrow

Hostal Sa Rascassa—in the tiny cove of Cala d’Aiguafreda, 10 minutes’ drive from Begur—is essentially a restaurant with five rooms, each of which has direct access to the ocean. That last word is important, because it’s where the magic happens. The restaurant uses all of its oceanic wizardry: First, in its logo, a poppy-red illustration of the spiky rascassa (scorpion fish) that it’s named after. Secondly, in its courtyard, all shady trees, pots of lavender, and the undeniably salty taste of sea air. Third, in its simple menu that doesn't trade in double-digit ingredient lists or molecular foams; instead, fresh fish that lets its quality do the talking. Much is grilled, such as octopus or brill, there’s a fish rice, or, for something lighter, a warm salad of scallops and prawns. One specialty to definitely try in Begur is the rock fish (or peix de roca ), which even has its own culinary festival.

Terracotta Ceramics Museum Arrow

La Bisbal d'Empordà, a 15-minute drive west of Begur, is one of Catalunya’s most important ceramics producers. So much so, that ‘Ceràmica de la Bisbal’ is a protected designation of origin, like a Champagne of the potter’s world. Given that the first recorded pottery market here was way back in 1511, the Terracotta Ceramics Museum fills in the gaps: what was produced, how, and where we can get our hands on some. The museum building itself isn’t what you’d call a looker—a skinny chimney providing the only thing of interest. But the fun stuff happens inside.

Aiguablava Arrow

Begur has 20km of coastal path, a continuation of the stunning Camí de Ronda trail that runs further north to Dalí’s favorite village, Cadaqués. In Begur, however, the path isn’t continuous—the cliffs have other ideas—so the route is divided into four. All are beautiful, but the furthest south is something special. It’s the longest (and we’re suckers for strolls), and the reward for finishing is a whole new shade of blue: the beach of Aiguablava. You can drive straight, park up, and be bathing under the balmy Costa Brava sun before the rest of us have programmed the GPS. But to make the most of the coastal path, it’s more of an adventure to start at Platja Fonda and hike south. To be fair, hike is an exaggeration (the most you’ll have to deal with are stairs). From the grey sand at Platja Fonda, follow signs towards Fornells, continue past little ports and swimming pools carved into rocks. You’ll know you’re at Aiguablava when the color of the ocean gets, frankly, ridiculous, and the slither of sand is pure gold.

Palau de Casavells – Alzueta Gallery Arrow

With sister galleries in Madrid and Barcelona, a rural Medieval village isn’t the obvious candidate for a contemporary art center with international clout. And yet, aided by the magnificence of the building—a 16th-century palace offering 30,000 square feet of exhibition space—Alzueta Gallery’s countryside outpost is a crowd-puller, where every corner is exciting. On arrival, there’s a sleepy farmhouse look to it. A bucolic setting with a higgledy-piggledy stone house that, in places, looks held together by vines. Inside, however, there’s nothing twee about it. Having been restored with minimal architectural invention, the building is an adventure in itself. The ceilings jump from vaults to wooden beams to ornate cornicing, while your feet caress giant hunks of stone and centuries-old tiles. One minute you feel as if you’re in a cellar, encased under a shrinking dome of exposed brick. Then the height expands and you’re surrounded by natural light and stark grey concrete. The building is exquisite, and integral to the experience.

La Bionda Arrow

This exceptional—and exceptionally quirky—eight-room boutique hotel embodies all that’s joyful about the genre: phenomenal service, talking-point design (which tapped Wes Anderson for inspiration, then French markets for the goods), and a cozy-cool atmosphere where a purple velvet sofa reclines next to an honesty bar. Mention La Bionda to anyone who’s been and the reply will be a predictable, “Oh, the breakfast!” It’s a delicious address, in every sense. Like other pleasures built around surprise—Christmas crackers, a child’s music box—La Bionda’s exterior gives nothing away. If it weren’t for the discrete bronze plaque beside the entrance, you’d likely stroll past mistaking it for a townhouse. Those in-the-know tend to be artistically minded couples (both local and international) on European travels, recharging their batteries, or who’ve offloaded the kids for a weekend of hedonism (La Bionda is over-16s). It’s a crowd well-versed in interesting stories, ageless in their approach to life, who crave spontaneous ocean dips, addresses yet to become Instagram-famous, and everything soul-enriching.

CATALAN PYRENÉES

Sant Climent de Taüll Arrow

It’s ironic that the oh-so beautiful Vall de Boí valley is most famous for something that looks quite low-key from the outside. UNESCO World Heritage status has been awarded to eight churches and a chapel, though a glimpse at their exteriors could have you wondering what the fuss is about. Even the most famous, Sant Climent de Taüll with its six-floor bell tower, is pretty but —dare we say—no Sagrada Familia. Look inside, however, and the Romanesque style they excel at comes alive: intense, brightly colored theological paintings that do not hold back when it comes to drama.

Boí Taüll Ski Resort Arrow

Spain and skiing might not seem like natural amigos, but the Catalan Pyrenees could pull off a credible version of the Winter Olympics. Boí Taüll gives you the best runs for your money: blue skies (well, usually) and baking-soda peaks as far as the ski goggles can see. It’s easy to get around, and—extra bonus—rarely crowded. As well as claiming the highest peak in the Pyrenees—Puig Falcó at 2751m—it’s also north facing, preserving the snow’s icy quality for way longer than your après cerveza. A visit is perfect for the type who likes their feet and their Old Fashioneds on ice.

Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici National Park Arrow

If pronouncing the name makes your tongue trip, expect the scenery to finish the job and render your mouth aghast. Some 200 million years ago, Catalunya’s only national park was a glaciated valley. Today, that’s left us with vast U-shaped valleys, spiky mountain peaks that jut up like pinecones, and a wide expanse of yellow-flowered prairies. But it’s also extremely visitor friendly: flat paths suitable for wheelchair users and children, plus off-the-grid routes for experienced climbers only (who’ll need snowshoes in winter). The national park is one of those something-for-everyone places—of course, being devastatingly handsome helps. A winner for the camera roll, lungs, and glutes.

Mas Sant Marc Arrow

This family farmhouse, renovated and run by the tastemakers behind Barcelona’s hip Hotel Brummell, attracts both hardcore nature explorers and those pondering what a move to the countryside might look like. It ticks off the checklist of rural fantasies—there are chickens, an equestrian center, a golf course, and sink-into armchairs crying out for a good book. All without scrimping on those key urban essentials: an excellent restaurant and strong Wi-Fi. Outdoor pursuits are the thread connecting guests, making Mas Sant Marc somewhere casual, cozy, and the type of place where woolly socks serve you better than heels or dress shoes. The daytime uniform is Lycra-based—from athleisure right up to serious cycling attire—then layered in gilets come nightfall to compensate for that stone-house-in-the-country temperature drop. Lively chatter, particularly over breakfast, thrashes out what hiking route to follow, or who won last night’s battle at the billiard table. Massages can be reserved with a physiotherapist, and there’s an outdoor pool whose temperature can politely be described as “fresh”. (Ok, you might scream.) Those who haven’t adopted the ice-bath trend may be more interested in the hot springs at Dorres, a 20-minute drive away.

Mas el Mir Arrow

There’s more than a touch of the yesteryear to this charming stone house, which transports you into the Catalan countryside via cottage-core décor, board games, and leafy hillside views. The best spot in the house is curled up on the sofa in front of the open fire—if you can beat the house cat to it. An outstanding restaurant, overseen by the founder of Barcelona’s trendy Asturian-Catalan tapas joint, Llamber, stops it from erring on the side of too twee. The non-technical description of your location is: middle of nowhere. Rural enough to see a sky full of stars; civilized enough to swerve a GPS meltdown. Guests (mainly couples) arrive with the same purpose—to spend the day exhausting themselves in nature (hiking, cycling, marveling at how beautiful it all is), and then bed down somewhere ridiculously cozy, where the food is satiating and the drinks are poured on a help-yourself basis. The fireplace turns into a share-your-story mixer event, where you may well be joined by a cat or one of two pet dogs. All rooms are pet-friendly, too, so if you’re not an animal person, this probably isn’t the place for you; ditto if your decor aesthetic is modern minimalism.

Vall de Núria Arrow

In one of Catalonia’s most beautiful and untouched valleys, it’s not just the scenery that delights but the way in which you get up here. Roads don’t play a part. Rather, there’s a 40-minute ride on a solar-powered rack railway that whisks you up the 1000-meter incline. Along the way, expect all manner of gorge-side “oohs” and “ahhs” before arriving at a natural wonderland that brilliantly lends itself to family-friendly activities. Once inside the valley, the Coma del Clot Cable Car is a thrilling journey up one level steeper—the views at the top are wild and panoramic. The Leisure Park is a good stop for restless kids, offering plenty of exhausting activities, such as go-karting, trampolining, rock climbing and adventure playgrounds, which will make them temporarily forget that YouTube exists. For photography fans, the most iconic shot is that of the Núria monastery reflected, mirror-like, in the boating lake before it. While it goes without saying that there are hiking trails aplenty, covering all levels, as well as skiing in winter. In fact, it was the rise of winter sports—as well as pilgrimages to the monastery—that called for the rack railway to be built back in 1931.

ME Sitges Terramar Arrow

ME Sitges Terramar, an ultra-modern, tiered edifice, stands out like the sorest of thumbs beside the elegant residential villas and less-populous beaches found at the far end of the Passeig Marítim promenade. But as soon as you approach the entrance and observe the well-heeled guests sipping generously sized cocktails on the Besito beach club terrace, you'll be taken with a feeling of calm. The relaxed vibe continues inside, where attractive staffers, dressed in head-to-toe white, offer a big smile and a choice of welcome drink.

Fragata Arrow

Fragata, an upscale, dimly lit space with monochromatic framed photos and stacks of wine bottles, feels more like a New York city hotspot than a small town mainstay. But its terrace, offset by a shady tree and medieval stone wall, is a veritable Sitges hotspot that draws well-to-do locals in droves. The restaurant first opened in 1965 and remains a beloved institution to this day, both for its ritzy look and its quality cooking. The menu, a la carte for both lunch and dinner, keeps carnivores salivating (there’s beef Wellington, steak tartar, a knife-glidingly good fillet), but Fragata is predominantly known for its seafood; say, king prawn salad with fresh avocado slices followed by the tuna tartare on a bed of cassava chips.

Passeig Marítim Arrow

Despite its diminutive size—less than 30,000 inhabitants—Sitges boasts no fewer than 17 beaches, and the palm tree–lined Passeig Marítim is the panoramic pedestrian passage that connects them all. At the foremost eastern tip, Aiguadolç and Balmins beaches attract seclusion-seeking nudists and feature the best views of unspoiled natural landscape (not a euphemism). Further along, past the domed medieval Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla church, family-friendly beaches include Ribera, Fragata, and L’Estanyol. For those preferring less-inhibited tranquility, Terramar, the westernmost beach, and the tiny cove of Anquines are the best bets.

Sky Bar at Hotel MiM Sitges Arrow

White leather booths, jumbo bonsai trees, transparent Ghost chairs, and a DJ’s melodic beats: Sky Bar at MiM Sitges feels like a club. But what you'll notice above all—and what probably brought you in to begin with—are the 360-degree views over Sitges. The drinks are decent but all pretty standard; mojitos are particularly popular, and the caipirinha and margaritas fit the scene. But most folks are here for the chilled-out vibe and killer views.

Museus de Sitges Arrow

Museus de Sitges, a group of museums housed within a series of connected buildings, offers visitors a rare glimpse into the homes and art of notable turn-of-the-century collectors. Archways and staircases separate each collection from the next, making it easy to get (delightfully) lost inside the complex. If you're looking for just the highlights, don't miss Cau Ferrat’s second-floor Grand Hall (full of medieval wrought iron keys, doorstoppers, ancient pottery, and glassware) and the somber paintings in the arched rooms of the Museu Maricel.

El Pou Arrow

The menu at El Pou as eclectic as the decor; international bites such as Wagyu beef sliders, ceviche, and yakisoba noodles co-exist alongside traditional Catalan cheese plates and fish dishes. Adventurous palates will love the fusion tapas such as crunchy calamari with kimchi mayonnaise dip, steamed scallops on a bed of mushroom risotto, or artichokes topped with smoked speck and manchego. Desserts feature similar twists; fondant with coffee ice cream and raspberries, crema catalana, the Catalan answer to the crème brûlée.

Sabàtic, Sitges, Autograph Collection Arrow

This bright, modern, box-fresh hotel combines the sleek aesthetics of a Mediterranean beach club with a siesta pace of life. Entering the lobby feels like opening a design magazine—kentia palms lean next to smart sofas and bookshelves where the books’ spines intentionally turn inwards. But it’s the focus on small-group experiences with local makers, such as a ceramics lesson or a vineyard tour, that ensure there’s plenty of heart behind the good looks. It’s initially surprising that Sàbatic isn’t right beside the seafront, given that beach life is kind of Sitges’s thing. But being a 15-minute walk outside of town brings several blessings. For one, lots of space—and you’re really struck by this in the roomy bedrooms. Then there’s the involuntary exhale you catch yourself making when you step away from Sitges’s pretty-but-pumping little streets. While Sàbatic has multi-visitor appeal—families, business travelers, friendship groups reconnecting via the hotel’s exclusive in-house wine—everyone seems to travel with a Zen energy. Maybe it’s the light, or the morning yoga, or the swaying-lavender-filled terraces, but being stressed just doesn’t work here.

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Latitude 41

The 20 Best Day Trips from Barcelona

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While Barcelona is a traveler’s dream, the surrounding area of Catalonia is extraordinary . If you’re visiting the Catalan capital, I highly recommend you explore the underrated regions in this northeastern part of Spain. After almost 15 years of living in Barcelona and traveling to new towns and cities, I’m still amazed by the variety of unique destinations that lurks within my 200-kilometer radius. From the craggy Costa Brava coves to the inland’s ancient medieval villages to the exquisite wineries of the Penedès – it’s hard to choose what to do. I’ve curated this list of the 20 best day trips from Barcelona, and I mention some I personally find overrated. Scroll down to the bottom of the post to help you choose!

Table of Contents

20 Best Day Trips from Barcelona, Spain

BEACHES + CULTURE

Sitges is a relaxed, beach town not too far from Barna and a cinch to travel to by train. Meander down the beach promenade and enjoy a seafood paella at one of the seaside restaurants. (We like Restaurante Mare Nostrum.) Be sure to walk up the steps to the majestic Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla Church , where you can get a sweeping view of the Mediterranean Sea. Then continue through the whitewashed historic center of art galleries and museums . Sitges is the home of the Sitges Cinema festival, an internationally acclaimed festival celebrating horror and fantasy films held around Halloween. Also, check out the annual  zombie walk! During the Carnaval season, expect huge festivities and flamboyant parades here. If you’re a beach lover, you can find concealed coves dotted around the area like Cala l’Home Mort. Taking a Barcelona to Sitges day trip is one of the easiest!

From Barcelona to Sitges : It’s one of the easiest day trips from Barcelona! By train – Take the R2 Sud train at Estació de França, Passeig de Gracia, or Estació Sants heading toward Sant Vicenç de Calders. It takes 30-46 minutes, depending on which station, and it leaves every 20 minutes. The stop is “Sitges”. By car –  It’s 41.6 kilometers (43 minutes). Take the C-32 all the way down.  Compare lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a Sitges day tour!  

•  Fancy a food and wine tasting in Sitges? Get a personalized Sitges tour by visiting a charcuterie, having local tapas, and drinking organic wine. Book your Sitges food and wine tour on Get Your Guide.
• Combine Sitges with another city like Tarragona (see #9 below). Tour Tarragona’s aqueducts and amphitheater, then head to the breezy beaches of Sitges. Book the Tarragona Sitges tour on Viator   or  book on Get Your Guide.

2. Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is a quaint beach town with a walled city perched on a hill, right next to the sand. Behind those walls is the Villa Vela (“Old Town”). This is the jewel of Tossa de Mar: a labyrinth of bumpy stoned alleys and historic homes . It seems everywhere you turn, you’ll get a gorgeous view of rocky coves or fishing boats dotting the sea.  You can walk up the hill of the Villa Vela or opt to take the tourist train (which my kids love). Once you get to the top, the driver will give you about 15 minutes to wander the rocky landscape. The main beach is  Platja Gran, which has the walled city in the background and a small promenade. For more isolated beaches, t ry smaller coves around like Platja d’es Codolar or Platja Llevadó. Tossa de Mar is one of the best Barcelona, Spain, excursions 🙂

From Barcelona to Tossa de Mar:  By Train –  Take the RENFE Rodalíes train R1 to Blanes or Maçcanet-Massanes, which is about 1.5 hours and runs along the coast. From there, take the bus using the Rodalíes website . Then take the bus – see the schedule here .  By bus from Barcelona –  I’ve taken this route, and it’s pretty convenient because it’s direct. The bus leaves from Estació del Nord, and the destination is “Tossa Estació”. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes.  See the bus schedule.   By car: It’s 103 kilometers from Barcelona and takes 1 hour, 15 minutes. The fastest route is to take the AP-7, which has a toll road.  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Try one of these Tossa de Mar day trips out of Barcelona

• Explore Tossa de Mar and other parts of the Costa Brava on this boat trip with a professional guide. Try this convenient half-day tour of Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar (Catalan lunch included). Book the Tossa de Mar boat tour
• Go with a knowledgeable guide to explore Tossa de Mar in a personalized small-group tour. Stop by Blanes beach, the lush  Marimurtra Botanical Gardens, and then to Tossa de Mar to have lunch served with sparkling cava. Book the Tossa de Mar and Costa Brava tour

3. Cadaqués

It’s a wonder how this laidback whitewashed fishing town has been well-protected against any ugly commercialism that has invaded other places around Catalonia. Cadaques’ cobblestoned lanes, white buildings, azure-colored doors , and green vines draping many walls make the town a Costa Brava tourist darling. Cadaqués was made famous primarily by surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, who’s spent many summers here, and who also has a museum in the nearby Portlligat. In fact, he lived there until his wife’s death in 1982. If you fancy, this small town could make a romantic overnight trip as the surrounding area of Cap de Creus Natural Park is also a breathtaking place to hike and discover. I’ve been here a few times, and I never get tired of it 🙂

From Barcelona to Cadaqués :  By train + bus –  The train leaves Barcelona from different stations. On the RENFE website , the destination is “Figueres”. When you get there, walk to the bus station (literally across the street). That’s where you can buy your bus ticket to Cadaques. See more on bus timetables here.   By bus –  From Barcelona Nord bus station, it takes about 3 hours, using the bus company Sarfa. Go here  and enter departure stop “Barcelona Estació del Nord”. The destination is “Cadaqués Estació”.   By car –  It takes about 2.5 hours by car. The last part of the trip is reaaaaally winding, so take heed if you tend to get carsick. The fastest route is to take the AP-7 with a toll road. Then take the C-260 to GI-614 to Cadaqués. (Because it’s kind of far, it would be fun to stop off at Costa Brava beach towns and make it a road trip from Barcelona!)  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Try one of these Cadaqués day tours from Barcelona

• For Salvador Dalí fans, you can immerse yourself in a 12-hour tour of Figueres, Cadaqués, and Portlligat (the Dalí triangle). A knowledgeable guide will take you to the spots where Dalí was born, where he grew up, where he worked, and even see his tomb at the Museu-Teatre Dalí. (I felt a bit weird taking a photo of that.)  Book your full-day Salvador Dalí tour
• If you love nature, you also might want to see Cap de Creus National Park, the gorgeous landscape of the most easternmost part of Spain. Get picked up at your hotel, discover the rugged Costa Brava, and sip on some Catalan wines during this elegant tour.  Book your Cadaques and Cap de Creus tour

Begur is a unique destination that has it all: beaches, medieval castles , and all things Cuban, of course. You’ll find remnants of Caribbean culture highlighting the town with its colorful colonial mansions, Cuban-themed annual festivals, and cocktail bars. It’s because, during the 19th century, many Begur residents emigrated to Cuba and built their fortunes. They later returned with their riches to build stunning colonial homes in Begur. The town is also blessed with nearby beaches, lining some of the coastal perimeters with the camís de ronda. These ancient routes are charming footpaths all around the Costa Brava, which were built so residents could move from village to village. Some of the most beautiful old-world beaches in the Costa Brava are here – visit Sa Tuna (hard to get to but worth it) and Aiguafreda.

From Barcelona to Begur :  By bus – The most direct way is to take the bus using the Sarfa  bus company. Start at the Barcelona Nord Bus station, and the destination is “Begur”. It’s about 2 hours and 20 minutes.   By car –  It’s about 133 kilometers from Barcelona and over 1.5 hours drive. Take the AP-7. Toll roads apply.  Compare lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a Barcelona to Costa Brava day trip

• While there aren’t any specific day tours just for Begur, you can explore the best towns of the Costa Brava with stops at Begur, Pals, Calella de Palafrugell (#5 below), and Girona (#10 below). I think it’s one of the best day trips around Barcelona! Book your Costa Brava tour here on Viator

5. Calella de Palafrugell

Its name is a mouthful, and Calella de Palafrugell is a tiny stunner. This traditional Costa Brava fishing village evokes the small-town charm of the Costa Brava and is surrounded by white village homes , rocky inlets , and coves, and is punctuated with colorful docked boats. Parts of the town also have traditional cobblestone streets to meander and have a fresh seafood dish like sea urchin, the local specialty. Also, check out the lush Cap Roig Botanical Gardens right next to the sea. 

From Barcelona to Calella de Palafrugell :  By train –  This is the best way to get here (train station is 25km away), using the  Sarfa  bus company. Start from the Barcelona Nord Train station. The Destination is “Palafrugell (Estació)” It’s about 2 hours and 15 minutes. By Car –  It’s about 120 kilometers north of Barcelona, and 1 hour and 20 minutes. The fastest way is to take the AP-7 going north. Toll roads apply.  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book fun or romantic trips to Costa Brava

• There aren’t specific day tours just for Calella de Palafrugell, but you can explore the best towns of the Costa Brava with stops at Begur, Pals, Calella de Palafrugell, and Girona (see below). Book your Costa Brava tour here on Viator

Garraf’s beach area called “Les casetes del Garraf”, a petite moon-shaped, rocky beach with the cutest art deco cabanas , which you can rent. (I drooled over the ones on Airbnb.) This is a short day trip but worth it if you’re looking for a charming beach to spend the day. Garraf Beach is 350 meters long and 25 meters wide, so it’s packed on a summer’s day.   Also check out the nearby Gaudí’s Bodega’s Guell, a quirky-looking restaurant designed by Antoni Gaudí, which is within walking distance from the beach. I haven’t been there – and the official website information is  cryptic – so tell me if you visit!

From Barcelona to Garraf : By Train – It’s only  38 minutes taking the regional Rodalies, the R2 Line, from Passeig de Gracia. It leaves every 30 minutes. Make sure your train stops in Garraf because some R2 trains skip this stop and go directly to Sitges.  By car –  Take the C-32. It’s 5 kilometers past Castelldefels. Parking can be difficult, but there are some spaces. This past summer, my family and I were able to park the car nearby luckily!  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

There aren’t any day tours here, so the easiest way is to go on your own.

CULTURE + HISTORY

7. colònia güell.

The Colònia Güell is a textile village outside of Barcelona in Santa Coloma de Cervelló. It was built in 1890 after the owner, Eusebio Guell, commissioned him to build Park Guell. While the colony is a decorative delight of Catalan art nouveau architecture , the protagonist is the church, the Crypt Gaudí. This church is the precursor to the majestic Sagrada Familia, which was a sort of artistic testing ground of architecture. (My ultimate dream was to get married at the Gaudí’s crypt at the Còlonia Güell. California would do.) It was named a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2005. Colònia Guell makes for a quick day trip outside Barcelona.

From Barcelona to Colonia Guell : By train – Take the commuter train (FGC) from Plaza Espanya. Lines S3, S4, S8, and S9 all go there and take over 52 minutes. The train stop is “Colonia Güell”. By car – It’s just 18.7km and 30 minutes to arrive. Take the B-10. Park your car in the free parking lot and follow the signs to the Visitor’s Center.  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a Barcelona day tour 

• Get the complete Gaudí day tour to the Colònia Guell, Gaudí Crypt, and the mountains of Montserrat on this highly-rated day trip. First, stop off at the Gaudí crypt on a guided tour. Then head off to Montserrat, where you’ll board the rack railway train and get a guided visit to the Montserrat Benedectine monastery. Book your Colònia Güell and Montserrat tour here  or  book it on Get your Guide.
• Taking your own transport and need to buy tickets? Buy tickets from the official Barcelona tourism website and save 10% off here .

8. Figueres, the Dalí Theatre-Museum

Figueres, the town itself, isn’t anything to write home about; however, the Dalí Theatre-Museum is a must-see for art lovers . You get to see the surreal artist’s seriously messed-up side and have major WTF moments. You’ll also recognize some art pieces from your high school art class — like Mae West’s face made out of furniture. Plus, see where the master himself is buried, in the crypt . Figueres the town, however, is a typical modern pueblo, where you’ll see a vibrant local life. If you have kids, another worthy visit is the Museum de Joguines (Toy Museum). My daughter loved how it showed one of Dalí’s childhood toys housed here. Read more about the Dali Museum here!

Barcelona to Figueres:   By train –  The fastest way to go to Figueres is by taking the AVE, a high-speed train. The trip ranges from 2 hours to 3 hours, depending on departure time/stops. Check the timetables at the RENFE website.  By car –  It’s about 140km driving distance and takes about 1.5 hours.  Compare lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a Figueres day tour 

• Want to see Girona and Figueres in one day? You’ll see the Teatre-Museu Dalí in Figueres, and see Girona’s well-preserved Jewish quarter while on a walking tour of that city. Kids ages 0 to 8 are free. Book your Figueres and Girona Day Tour from Barcelona on Get Your Guide.
• Or see the ultimate Dalí tour of the Dalí Museum, Figueres, and Cadaqués. Get picked up from your Barcelona hotel. Book your Dalí tour with hotel pick-up on Viator

9. Tarragona

Once an important Roman epicenter, Tarragona is a port city on the Costa Dorada with a seaside 2nd-century Roman amphitheater and a 12th-century cathedral . You can start to the day looking outside the “Mediterranean balcony” (really, just a place where you can look out over the sea), then visit the Circ Romà (ancient Roman chariot track), the 1st-century aqueduct, then walk down the breezy promenade, Passeig de Les Palmeres. My family and I spent my birthday weekend in Tarragona, which also makes a pleasant Barcelona weekend break. Read more about fellow blogger, Molly’s historic visit to Tarragona and Tortosa here.

Barcelona to Tarragona :  By train –  It’s easy to get to and the train ride takes about 1 hour. Visit the RENFE website for timetables.  By car –  It’s about 1.5 hours and 100km south of Barcelona. It’s easy: C-32 and AP-7. Toll roads apply. Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a Tarragona day tour!  

• Enjoy half a day in Tarragona with a dynamic guide. Get picked up in private transport, get entry and a tour to the Roman amphitheater, Roman chariot track, and forum. Also, discover the stunning seaside modern Tarragona. Book your Tarragona day tour on Get Your Guide
• Combine seeing Tarragona with Sitges! Join a small group (maximum 8) and visit the Roman ruins, swim in Sitges beaches, and get a guided tour of the old town. Book your Tarragona and Sitges tour on Get Your Guide

Perched on a hill overlooking the River Onyar is this ancient walled city of Girona. If you’re obsessed with Game of Thrones , this is where you can take a tour of the film spots (I have never seen the series, but everyone one tells me, “lots of sex and violence”.) Its gems are the Romanesque and Gothic 11th-century Girona Cathedral , the maze-like Jewish quarter , and the well-preserved Banys Àrabs (ancient bathhouses) . Take a walk uphill from the cathedral, and you can catch sweeping views from the Girona’s highest point, the Torre de Gironella. You can also take a nice stroll down the riverside Rambla, where a cluster of bars, galleries, and cafes form the social center of the town. 

Barcelona to Girona :  By train – Take the RENFE train from Sants or Passeig de Gracia, which takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. By car –  It’s about 103 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours. Take the A7.  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a Barcelona to Girona day trip

There are a ton of Girona day tours from Barcelona. The most popular ones and highly rated are this:

• A Viator exclusive walking tour of Game of Thrones locations. Find the filming locations, get the insider Thrones gossip, and learn how Girona was transformed into King’s Landing and Braavos. Book your Game of Throne tour here
• Meet in Girona, and get a thorough, 3-hour walking tour of the 2,000-year history of Girona. Explore the medieval quarter, the Jewish quarter, and walk over the city walls. This is a popular tour! Book your Girona walking tour on Viator or book it on Get Your Guide

CHARMING TOWNS + NATURE

Besalú is one of my favorite medieval towns  that captures the essence of Catalunya. I t’s the perfect place to go if you want to experience an authentic village without the hordes of tourists. It has a 12-century Romanesque bridge overlooking the quiet waters of the Fluvia River. Get lost in the small Jewish Quarter or check out the Sant Pere monastery. It’s small, but it packs a punch of culture and history.

Barcelona to Besalú : By bus –  This is the most direct way to get to Besalú. The bus company is TEISA, and the bus stop is at Pau Claris, 117. See the bus schedule .  By car –  It’s 131 km north of Barcelona and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes. Take the AP-7. Toll roads apply.   Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a day tour!  

• Take the Catalonian Medieval Villages Day Tour: visit Besalú, Tavertet, Rupit, and pass by Castellfollit de la Roca (see photo right below). Start in Barcelona with a knowledgeable guide and a small group. Reviewers rave about the picturesque scenery and breathtaking old-world villages! Book your Catalonia Medieval Villages Day Tour
• Enjoy a different Catalonia Medieval Village day Tour: Vic, Besalú, Santa Pau, and the volcanic region of La Garrotxa. Hotel pick-up is available.  Book your Catalonian village tour on Get your Guide

12. Olot and La Garrotxa

Olot is a small town surrounded by a volcanic region called La Garrotxa in the Girona province. The Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park has over 40 non-active volcanoes, the tallest being el Croscat at 786 meters high. An interesting landscape of La Garrotxa is the basalt cliff of Castellfollit de la Roca, which is formed by two overflowing lava flows. By car, you can also create a cool itinerary of enchanting medieval villages like Vall d’en Bas or Santa Pau. For hiking, explore the area on any of the 28 walking routes, ranging from easy to hard (Click here to discover the  hiking trail itineraries .)  Visit the La Garrotxa website with useful general information . 

Barcelona to Olot:  By bus –  The best way to get to Olot is to take the TEISA bus , which only runs on weekends. There is a “Bus del Volcans” that goes through the area with 6 stops ( map ). The first stop is “Parc Nou i Paratges de la Moixina”. This is the best page I’ve found in English about the La Garrotxa region .  By car –  Olot is about 113 kilometers north and takes about 1 hour 45 minutes. The best way is to explore the area is by car. Take the C-17 towards Olot and go to Santa Pau. Toll roads apply.  Compare lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a day tour to La Garrotxa 

• If you want to visit La Garrotxa, try this small-group tour of medieval villages and volcanoes. Visit Besalú, hike around the volcanoes, and enjoy a 3-course Catalan lunch. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included! Book a medieval village and volcanoes tour on Viator  or book it on Get Your Guide
• Ride over La Garrotxa in an air balloon! Take this once-in-a-lifetime tour: soar over La Garrotxa’s volcanoes and villages while having Catalan cake and sparkly cava. Then have a luxury brunch and explore Besalú. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included. Book a luxury hot air balloon  on Get Your Guide

Rupit (part of Rupit i Pruit municipality), which is 822 meters above sea level, is an enchanting stone village built along the side of a medieval castle. Amazingly, many of these homes were built in the 16th and 17th centuries! One of the most famous sites is a wobbly suspended bridge , which connects two sides of the town. It’s also surrounded by vegetation and nature – like some waterfalls running through it. Take a short hike to the ‘fall, Salt de Sallent, that goes down 100 meters. Also, check out the Sant Miquel Church and the hermitage of Santa Magdalena. Rupit’s population is minuscule – with just under 300 residents. But it’s managed to stay authentic and well-preserved over the centuries.

From Barcelona to Rupit: By train + bus –  The journey takes almost 3 hours. From the Barcelona Sants station, take the R3 Rodalíes train to Vic. Then take the bus 462 (bus company is Sagales), to Plaza Nova de l’Era. By car – It’s 106.6 km north and takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. Take the C-17 and the C-153.   Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe .

MAKE IT EASY – Book a day tour from Barcelona to Rupit 

• Hike around the Collsacabra Cliffs and visit Rupit on this unique excursion. From Barcelona, head to Rupit in a minivan with your guide. Start hiking from the medieval town across forests and along the cliffs to catch a glimpse of the Susqueda reservoir, and see the waterfall, Salt de Sallent. Then enjoy a 3-course Catalan meal back in Rupit.  Book your Rupit Hiking Tour
• Take the Medieval Villages tour (click to see the description under #11 Besalú) and see the best medieval towns near Barcelona to visit!  Book your Catalonia Medieval Villages Day Tour

One of the best small towns near Barcelona is Vic, another medieval wonder. With its Romanesque bridge, modernist buildings , and beautiful cathedral , it’s a romantic town to visit. Visit the Plaça Major, the main square on a Saturday, and you’ll find a bustling and atmospheric market. It also has the beautiful Sant Pere Cathedral (mixed in neoclassic, baroque, and Romanesque design). Vic is also famous for its cured meats like sausages like the fuet , salchichón , or botifarra . Highly recommended!

From Barcelona to Vic:   By train –  It’s just 1 hour and 20 minutes. Take the R3 Rodalíes train from Barcelona Sants station.  By car –  It’s about 70km north of Barcelona and takes over one hour by car. Take the C-17 and AP-7. Toll roads apply.  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe.

• See Vic and the Pyrenees mountains. From Barcelona, head directly to Vic to see the Cathedral and lively main square. Then go to Queralbs, a tiny mountain village of stone houses. Then take the rack railway train to the peaceful valley of Vall de Núria in the Pyrenees. Book your Vic + Pyrenees villages tour on Get Your Guide

15. Peratallada

Halfway between Barcelona and the French border is the small town of Peratallada, a well-preserved, ivy-covered little medieval village. Its name is loosely “pedra tallada” which means carved stone, describing these bumpy sandstone streets. Visit the Peratallada Castle, which was built between the 11th and 14th centuries and is surrounded by a moat. Also, visit the Romanesque Sant Esteve Church and the quaint shops selling local wares. For local Catalan gastronomy, try the delicious galtes  (pigs’ cheeks), a local delicacy.

From Barcelona to Peratallada:   By train – The best way is to take the AVE to Girona using RENFE. Then from there, take the 8 bus. The line is “Girona – La Bisbal – Begur – Palafrugell”. From “Girona Estació” to the stop “Peratallada” is about 55 minutes. See  the Sarfa bus website for more info. By car –  It’s about 131 km from Barcelona, about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Take the AP-7. Toll roads apply.   Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe.

• Take a tour of Girona and two charming medieval villages, Peratallada, and Pals. See the Old Town of Girona, enjoy the castles of Peratallada, and see the ancient fortress of Pals.  Book a Girona, Pals, and Peratallada tour on Viator
• Alternatively, take a Barcelona to Costa Brava day trip! Head to the Costa Brava and walk the  cami de ronda  (ancient footpaths), visit the whitewashed Calella de Palafrugell, then head off to Peratallada or Pals (it’s your choice).  Book your Costa Brava beach + Medieval Villages tour on Get Your Guide  or book it on Viator

NATURE + MOUNTAINS 

16. montserrat.

If you want to see just ONE of the best places to visit near Barcelona, it’s Montserrat . These are the closest mountains near Barcelona, which have a uniquely-formed serrated shape. And its b reathtaking, Instagram-worthy views also make it a popular destination. Montserrat is famous for La Moreneta, a black Virgin Mary statue that’s performed several miracles, which is at the Montserrat Monastery. But you don’t have to be religious to enjoy Montserrat – hiking the easy trails around the peculiar mountain range is a strangely spiritual experience. I believe it’s the calmness and contrast of big-city Barcelona that makes it a truly special place. If you don’t find this space spiritual, you are dead inside. It’s one of the best side trips from Barcelona!

From Barcelona to Montserrat:   By train –  There are many ways to get to Montserrat, and schedules change based on season, so I recommend studying your route and itinerary. From Plaça Espanya take the R5 train. If you want to take the cable car (called Aeri de Montserrat), stop at “Aeri de Montserrat”. Then take the crazy-awesome-scary cable car. If you want to take the rack railway train, then stop at “Monistrol”.    When you get to Plaça Espanya, ask at the ticketing service and they’ll be sure to help you. By car – It’s about an hour total from Barcelona to Montserrat. There are two options: 1) park your car at the Cremallera de Monistrol Vila car park, then take the cremallera (train) from there. Or, 2) drive all the way up and park at the Montserrat Monastery. Note that these 400 spots fill up quickly in the morning.

MAKE IT EASY – Make a Montserrat day trip from Barcelona

• Want to buy all Montserrat transportation on one ticket? From the official Barcelona tourism website, buy the complete Montserrat transportation and museum entrance. The Tot Montserrat card includes a round-trip metro ticket from/to Plaça Espanya, round-trip train ticket from Barcelona-Plaça Espanya to Monistrol stop de Montserrat, a round-trip ticket on the Cremallera (rack railway) or Aeri to Montserrat, Unlimited use of the Sant Joan and Santa Cova funiculars, Entrance to the audiovisual exhibit “Montserrat behind closed doors”, and admission to the Museu de Montserrat. Plus a meal in the self-service restaurant at Montserrat. Buy your Tot Montserrat card from the official Barcelona tourism website
• Book a Montserrat-Barcelona tour and see the best setting of a monastery outside Barcelona. This complete tour of Montserrat with a guided visit to the Montserrat Monastery, the 10th-century Oller de Mas castle, and winery, and enjoy Catalan wine and lunch. Book your Montserrat, wine, and tapas half-day tour on Get Your Guide
• Join this insanely popular and budget-friendly half-day tour of the Royal Basilica of Montserrat and get a tasting of three liquors. Montserrat is one of the best trips from Barcelona!  Book your half-day tour of Montserrat on Viator

17. The Pyrenees

It takes between 2 to 4 hours to get the Pyrenees mountains from Barcelona, depending on your exact destination. The Pyrenees mountain range that forms a natural border between France and Spain and the general area extends 200 kilometers of pine prairies, deep valleys, high mountains, and small villages . In the summer, you can enjoy mountaineering, hiking, or camping around the mountains. It includes one of Spain’s seven national parks here, Parc Nacional d’Aigüestortes i Estany de Sant Maurici, which has many rivers, valleys, and lakes. In the winter, skiing is king.  For skiing, the largest resorts are La Masella (2 hours from Barcelona) and Baqueira Beret (4 hours away). If you just want to be surrounded by nature and is easy to get to, Vall de Núria (Nuria Valley) is near the French border, and it’s a peaceful region where you can enjoy the flora or hike. The mountains surrounding goes up to 3,000 meters high!

From Barcelona to the Pyrenees (Vall de Núria) :   By train –  From Plaça Catalunya, take the R3 Rodalies train to Ribes de Freser, where you can take the rack railway to Vall de Nùria. Buy  the combined ticket for the whole journey.  By car –  It’s over 132 kilometers from Barcelona and about 2 hours’ drive via the C-17. Toll roads apply.  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe.

• Escape to the Pyrenees mountains. First visit the medieval town of Vic, the peaceful Queralbs village, and then lastly the stunning Vall de Núria in the Pyrenees mountains.   Book your Pyrenees mountains day tour on Viator  or book it on Get Your Guide

18. Montseny Natural Park

If you just want a relaxing one-day getaway from Barcelona, Montseny is the destination of slow travel — nature-style. The Montseny National Park was declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO in 1978 – and has a wide range of high mountains, low valleys, and marshes and is one of the best hikes near Barcelona. You can also go horseback riding, forage for mushrooms, or even get married here. One of the most impressive sites is from the highest mountain of Montseny, Turó de l’Home, peaking at 1,712 meters of altitude.  Montseny is also surrounded by small villages like the quaint Santa Maria de Palautordera and Campins and has about 25 restaurants in the village area.  Find out more about Montseny National Park , or if you want to know more about hiking, read this insightful post about  a woman’s solo hike in Montseny.

Barcelona to Montseny:  By train –  You can stop at different places in the park. One way is to take the RENFE train line 2 and stop at Sant Celoni. They’ve also recently integrated a new “Bus Parc” which is an integrated RENFE ticket and Park Bus ticket!  Find out more here . By car –  The fastest way is to take the AP-7 and exit “Sant Celoni”. Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe.

MAKE IT EASY – Book a Montseny hiking tour  

• Get a guided hiking tour exploring romanesque bridges, walking through scenic trails, while enjoying the countryside homes and lush foliage around you. And have a hearty lunch of organic, locally-sourced Catalan food! Book your Montseny Guided Hiking Tour with Lunch

WINE REGIONS + NATURE

19. the ebro region.

Terres de l’Ebre (the “Ebro lands”) is at the very south of Catalonia. I’m generalizing the area because there is really so much to see. One area is the Terra Alta , which has wineries, olive oil mills , and hiking and cycling trails . One of my favorite places I discovered is the Balneario de la Fontcalda (see the image). Truly unexplored stone buildings, it’s an inland area, and I hate to say this, but it’s truly one of the local’s secrets. If you want to do the Via Verda, head toward the town of Arnés, which is where the 24-km hike begins.  Via Verda means “green way”, and they’re natural bike and hiking paths such as the Val del Zafán, the Terra Alta Greenway.  If you want to discover more Vias Verdes, go to this website . 

Tortosa majestically stands between the Ebro River and the urban landscape. Visit the Tortosa Cathedral, Gothic Palaces , and visit the medieval walls . It has an old Jewish quarter, which came about after the Muslims conquered the city in 1148. The muralla was constructed in the 14th century to protect the city and the Jews. Explore the Muslim, Christian, and Jewish cultures. If you want to sleep here, I recommend staying at is the Parador de Tortosa, a castle-turned-hotel, which we loved.

From Barcelona to Tortosa:   By train –  Take the high-speed train, which takes over 2 hours and 20 minutes to get there. Visit the RENFE website for tickets. It goes direct, so it’s a great time to kick back and enjoy a film on the train!  By car –  it’s over 2 hours to get here and is around 180km south of Barcelona. Take the C-32 and AP-7. Toll roads apply.  Rent a car from Auto Europe .  For the Via Verda: Take the C-43, T-333 to  Prat de Comte, T-330 to Arnes, where you can start the Via Verda. Rent a bike at Egambi, Bicisports Aubanell , where they’ll help you get started on your bike route.  Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe.

Discover the wine region of the Terra Alta. Get picked up from your Barcelona hotel, then learn about the Terra Alta landscape and vineyards. Visit a winery, have a glass, and enjoy a local meal! Book your Terra Alta winery tour on Get Your Guide

20. Penedès Wine Region

If you’ve got a fondness for wine and cava , the nearby Penedès region is a romantic and fun place to explore. Nestled between Tarragon and Barcelona, Penedès produces high-quality red wines, white wines, and the local cava, the regional sparkling wine (not to be confused with champagne). There are over 280 wine cellars , and you’ll find huge estates like Freixenet and Codorniu, where they give in-depth and fun tours.  If you have kids, they’ll enjoy the train that goes through the cellars of Freixenet. I loved it 🙂

From Barcelona to Penedès :  By train –  Getting to Penedès is easy, but you’ll need a car to hop from winery to winery. The most accessible train stop is near Freixenet. From the Barcelona Sants station, it only takes over 40 minutes. To get there, take the R4 Rodalíes train towards Sant Vicenç De Calders, and stop at “Sant Sadurní d’Anoia”. Freixenet is only 36 meters away.  By car –  Take the B-23 and the AP-7. Toll roads apply. It takes about 40 minutes.   Compare the lowest car rental rates on Auto Europe.

MAKE IT EASY – Book a winery day tour

• Visit three wine cellars in Penedès, learning about and sampling wine: Jean Leon Winery, Bodegues Torres, and Caves Freixenet. Book your Penedès winery tour on Get Your Guide
• This highly popular small-group tour consists of visiting the enchanting mountain range of Montserrat (see below) and nearby wineries in Penedès with a guide. Readers call this tour “a highlight” of their Barcelona trip! Book your cava trail and Montserrat tour and Montserrat

Seriously, where should I go?

Don’t know where to travel from Barcelona?

If you’re short on time,  go to Colonia Guell, Montserrat, or Sitges. They are easy places to travel from Barcelona.

If you want both medieval and beach, go to Tossa de Mar.

If you want to see another big city (but not as big as Barcelona) , go to Girona or Tarragona.

If you want a charming fishing village, go to Cadaqués, Calella de Palafrugell, or Begur.

If you want nature but don’t want the beach , go to  Montserrat, La Garrotxa, Terra Alta, or the Pyrenees.

If you want to visit a winery, go to La Garrotxa, Penedès, Terra Alta, or Montserrat. Alella (not on the list) is also nearby.

If you want to get sick of hearing people speak English and partying all the time , Go to Salou or Lloret de Mar. I kid. Not really.

Tips on planning your Barcelona day trip

• You can take most of these best day trips from Barcelona by train . Rodalíes (also called Cercanías in Spanish) is the regional Catalan train network and is operated by RENFE. FGC (FGC.cat, Ferrocarriles de la Generalitat de Catalunya) is the regional train operator. You can buy tickets at the station or online.
• If you’re short on time, you don’t feel like planning, or you want to chill with a guide, a day tour can be worth it . You don’t have to DIY everything. I’ve suggested some Viator tours in Barcelona and Get Your Guide tours in Barcelona, both reliable platforms. Both Get Your Guide and Viator also allow a 24-hour cancellation if you change your mind!
• If I had to choose three, the  cities near Barcelona worth visiting : Montserrat, Sitges, and Cadaqúes.
• If you ARE buying a day tour, my top 4 best Barcelona day tours are: Montserrat , Sitges , Costa Brava,   and the Cadaqués-Dalí tour .
• For the traveler who wants to maximize their time in Europe, you can  visit THREE countries in one day : Andorra, Spain, and France. This is the rare Barcelona to Andorra day trip. (I’ve never done it, but it’s a popular excursion. I know Americans like to squeeze in trips because we have little vacay days, and I don’t judge how people travel.)  Check out  day trips from Barcelona to France and Andorra .
• If you’re keen on renting a car , you can compare the prices of car rental companies in Barcelona (Budget, Avis, Hertz, etc.) using Auto Europe .  You get free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup. And no credit card is needed for booking!
• Driving around Spain isn’t the easiest. If you’re from the US, you should know that 99% of the rental cars are stick-shift. Also, know that there are toll roads (faster) and national highways (slower). In 2021, they removed the toll road booths, so you don’t have to pay to use them anymore.

Map of Barcelona Day Trips

By Justine Ancheta

California native, churro aficionado, and mom of 3, Justine Ancheta writes fervently about Barcelona and Spain. Since 2008, she's been eating burnt onions (calçots) and tripping on cobblestones in the Gothic Quarter. She shares tips on popular attractions, exposes offbeat non-touristy spots, and gives insight on exploring Barcelona with kids. Her next Catalan culture challenge: top level of a human castle (castellers).

I’ve really liked your article on the trips that you can do around Barcelona. I’ve visited many places which you’ve mentioned and they were all delightful! I would totally recommend the Montserrat and Montseny trip as well as Costa Brava (specifically Calella de Palafrugell).

Thank you for your articles!

Thanks, Nicole!

Excellent post by Justine. One more time you got it!

How are you? Man, this post is fantastic there are some really great tips and a few places on this list that we need to go this summer.

cheers and be good,

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Barcelona and French Riviera Road Trip Itinerary

There’s nothing like traveling to Southern Europe during summer. One of the best things to do is enjoy the beauty of the stunning Mediterranean coast. The best way to do this is by doing a road trip from Barcelona to the French Riviera and exploring everything in between.

Barcelona is situated in the Catalonia region of Northeastern Spain and is the most visited city in the country. It’s also the largest city along the Mediterranean Sea. The French Riviera , otherwise known as the Côte d’Azur is located in Southern France and is filled with luxury hotels, A-list beach clubs, breathtaking scenery and stunning cities.

In June 2022, I did a summer Europe trip for my 31 st birthday, where I visited all the beautiful destinations surrounding the Mediterranean Sea in Barcelona and France .  In this article, discover the best Barcelona and Southern France road trip itinerary . There’s nothing more memorable than enjoying everything Barcelona and the French Riviera have to offer!

**Please note that this blog post uses affiliate links meaning that if you make a purchase via my affiliate link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only promote and talk about products and services that I have used and like.

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Traveling to Barcelona for a Road Trip:

Barcelona, Spain is easy to get to from anywhere in the world, whether you take a flight or public transportation .

Suppose you are flying from New York City’s JFK Airport like I did, along with San Francisco, Los Angeles, Boston, Buenos Aires and Santiago. In that case, you can enjoy non-stop flights to Barcelona with Level Airlines ! You can find other affordable flights through Skyscanner .

The main airport in Barcelona is Josep Tarradellas Barcelona – El Prat Airport , also known as Barcelona Airport . Additionally, if you plan to take the train to and from Barcelona, the city’s main train station is Barcelona-Sants and there are numerous bus stations throughout the city.

There are numerous rental car companies throughout the city when you plan to road trip from Barcelona . It’s best to book all rental cars and public transportation ahead of time in the summer months since Europe is more crowded with tourists and vacationers alike.

How to Get Around during a Barcelona and South of France Itinerary:

There are many great stops and day trips from Barcelona to Southern France . One of the best ways to see everything is by renting a car . If you don’t want to drive, Europe has some of the best public transportation !

For those planning to take public transportation, you can follow the below itinerary by taking a bus or train from Barcelona to the French Riviera :

Barcelona to Valencia: Two of Catalonia’s largest cities are only a few hours from each other. The best way to get to either is by taking the train from Barcelona Sants to Joaquin Sorolla station or Estació Nord in Valencia. If you plan to visit the Priorat wine region, you must rent a car .

Barcelona to Andorra: The best way to get from Barcelona to the Pyrenees Mountains in Andorra is by taking the bus from Barcelona’s Nord station to Andorra La Vella’s Estació Nacional d’Autobusos d’Andorra .

Andorra to Marseille: France’s second-largest city is a bit further from Andorra, so the best way to get to Marseille is by taking the ANDBUS from Andorra La Vella to Gare Matabiau in Toulouse. From there, you must transfer to the train that will take you to Marseille Saint-Charles train station.

Marseille to Nice: Being the South of France’s two major cities, it’s easiest to take the train from Marseille Saint-Charles to Nice-Ville . They’re only a few hours from each other.

If you plan to see the other French towns along the Riviera, you can easily take the train from Nice-Ville . For those wanting to see the lavender fields from Marseille, getting a rental car or doing a day trip from one of Provence’s more prominent cities or towns is best.

Where to Stay during a Barcelona and French Riviera Road Trip:

During a Barcelona and French Riviera trip, the best places to stay are Barcelona, Andorra, Marseille and Nice. There are a plethora of accommodations for all budgets, including rental properties ! Below are the top hotels to stay at during your road trip:

Luxury Accommodation: The Barcelona EDITION

Boutique Accommodation: Kimpton Vividora

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hotel chic&basic Ramblas

Budget Accommodation: St. Christopher’s Inn

Luxury Accommodation: Hotel Plaza

Boutique Accommodation: Andorra Park Hotel

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hotel Exe Prisma

Budget Accommodation: Alberg Els Andes

Luxury Accommodation: InterContinental Marseille Hotel Dieu

Boutique Accommodation: AC Hotel Marseille Prado Velodrome

Mid-Budget Accommodation: Hôtel C2 – Marseille

Budget Accommodation: Meininger Marseille Centre La Joliette

Luxury Accommodation: Hotel Boscolo Exedra Nice

Boutique Accommodation: Hotel Azur Riviera

Mid-Budget Accommodation: The Jay Hotel

Budget Accommodation: Villa Saint Exupery Beach

Spain and France Itinerary for 14 Days:

Day 1: Arrive in Barcelona – Enjoy the Best Travel Experiences

After arriving in Barcelona, Spain , on the first day of your road trip, you must head to La Sagrada Familia and see Antoni Gaudí ’s famous Roman Catholic cathedral! It’s one of the most visited monuments in Spain, with nearly 5 million people visiting annually.

It costs €26 for an individual ticket. You could also get an audio guide with that price, but you’ll need to download the Sagrada Familia Official app for the self-guided tour. You can also do guided tours at €30 and a guided tour of the cathedral and towers for €40. La Sagrada Familia is open every day from 9 am to 8 pm.

Since Barcelona is a beautiful city, it’s best to try walking as much as possible because there’s so much to see and do! From La Sagrada Familia , check out the Casa Batlló , another Gaudí masterpiece. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site , art gallery and museum that provides visitors with an interactive experience.

A trip to Barcelona, Spain is incomplete without enjoying vermouth. Morro Fi is one of the best vermouth bars in Barcelona and only a 15-minute walk from Casa Batlló . It’s an authentic spot where you can also savor tapas, including their chips and special sauce, along with sardines.

The best place to eat dinner on your first day in Barcelona is Terrassa Martinez in Parc de Montjuïc. This excellent restaurant is known for its paella dishes and breathtaking city views.

Day 2: Explore Around Barcelona

Once you have breakfast and are fueled up for the day, go to the Gothic Quarter to tour the Palau de la Música Catalana . It’s the most beautiful concert hall in Barcelona and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site .

The Palau de la Música Catalana is recognized as an architectural jewel of Catalan Art Nouveau. It costs €15 to do a self-guided tour and €19 for a guided tour. The concert hall is open Monday through Friday from 9 am to 9 pm. On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, it’s open from 9:30 am to 1 pm and two hours before a concert.

Another spot you must visit in the morning because it gets crowded is Park Güell . It’s another picturesque spot you must visit on a Barcelona and French Riviera road trip because it features Gaudí ’s work!

During the summer, it costs €13.50 for an adult ticket (ages 13-64), €9.33 for a children’s ticket (ages 7-12); €9.33 for a senior citizen ticket (ages 65 and older) and it’s free for young children (ages six and under) to enter Park Güell. The park is open every day from 9:30 am to 7:30 pm.

Tapas for lunch is a must! After touring Barcelona’s beautiful landmarks, visiting Bar Cañete for lunch is the best. Enjoy a refreshing sangria and savor Spanish staples like jamón Ibérico, patatas bravas, octopus, pescado frito and more.

After lunch, walk off what you ate by strolling up and down Las Ramblas. You can walk through different stores, shop in the famous Boquería market, grab helado (ice cream) at Rocambolesc and people-watch!

If you prefer a beach day, spend the afternoon at Barceloneta Beach. It features a white sand beach, a seaside promenade, beach bars and great seafood restaurants. Otherwise, it would be best to enjoy rooftop drinks at Hotel Colón ’s Panoramic Terrace , which overlooks the Gothic Cathedral of Barcelona. You can also visit the rooftop at the Sercotel Rosellón , which overlooks La Sagrada Familia .

Whether you go to the beach or not, you must enjoy an incredible seafood dinner at Can Fisher , located at Platja del Bogatell. They have wonderful fish dishes, seafood paella and tapas.

Day 3: Explore Valencia – One of the Best Road Trips from Barcelona

Following a Barcelona and South of France itinerary is only complete with visiting Valencia. Known as the birthplace of paella, Valencia has a stunning Old Town and beautiful Gothic buildings to admire.

Valencia is one of the best day trips from Barcelona and one of the leading things to do is visit and explore the City of Arts and Sciences . It includes Oceanographic , which is the biggest aquarium in Europe.

Since Valencia is also located on the Mediterranean coast, you can enjoy one of the many posh beach clubs. A great one is Marina Beach Club , which has a pool, two restaurants and a stage where world-famous DJs perform.

Because Valencia is the birthplace of Spain’s National Dish, paella, you must savor some during your day trip. Paella is made with rice, saffron, and vegetables and either meat or seafood is added. It’s usually served in one pan and is made for two people to enjoy. The best restaurants to enjoy paella in Valencia are Restaurante Levante , Taberna Alkazar and La Pepica .

Day 4: Day Trip to Priorat Wine Region – Top Attractions Outside Barcelona

During the Catalonia road trip portion of your Barcelona and French Riviera itinerary, you must also go wine tasting in the Priorat wine region, west of Tarragona. One of the best places to spend the day and even stay a night, if you can, is Terra Dominicata .

Priorat is recognized for its intensely flavored red wines, so you must try some, even if you aren’t a fan of red wine.

Overall, the Priorat wine region is secluded in the mountains of Catalonia. Because of its location, Priorat was undiscovered for many years. Nowadays, more people are traveling to this incredible region to experience some of Spain’s most renowned wines!

Whether you stay at Terra Dominicata or not, you must enjoy a traditional Catalan dinner at Mater Terrae Restaurant .

Day 5: Arrive in Andorra from Barcelona

Andorra is a mountainous country situated between Spain and France. It’s the perfect destination to add to your Barcelona and French Riviera road trip, especially if you enjoy hiking, mountain biking, skiing (if you visit in the winter) and fresh air!

Known as Europe’s sixth smallest country, Andorra offers something for everyone to enjoy! It also makes for one of the best road trips from Barcelona !

During your first day in Andorra, you must discover everything the capital city of Andorra La Vella offers. It’s the highest capital city and the 10 th highest city in Europe! As you walk around the city, you can admire the stunning Romanesque buildings, go shopping and grab a glass of wine at Atelier by Aitoir Estela . A great place to have lunch on your first day is El Refugi Alpí .

What is great about visiting Andorra is that it has the Directbus , which goes to all the charming cities in the country. One of the best things to do on your first day is to take the bus to Santa Coloma and enjoy the rock climb on the Via Ferrata to the picturesque Sant Vicenc D’Enclar .

If traveling with kids, you must enjoy the longest alpine slide in the world, the Tobotronc , at Naturland ! Additionally, if it’s raining, you must treat yourself to a spa day at the Caldea Complex , a spa amusement park.

A trip to Andorra is incomplete without having dinner in a traditional borda, a wooden house that serves authentic Andorran food. On your first night, you must eat at Restaurant El Faisà !

Day 6: Explore Andorra and the Pyrenees Mountains

Once you’re fueled up from coffee and breakfast, a hike on the Fontverd trail is well-needed! Andorra National Park’s Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a safe day hike accessible from Andorra La Vella.

The Fontverd hike will take several hours, so it’s best to start in the morning so you’ll be finished by mid-afternoon. Being 8 miles/13 kilometers, the Fontverd hike is a short trail up the Riu Madriu, a glistening river in the Pyrenees Mountains.

It’s a challenging hike but well worth it because the views are fascinating! Throughout the hike, you’ll encounter waterfalls, high mountain peaks, stone huts and farm animals. The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014.

A great place to have lunch after your hike is at Juventus . They are known for their platos combinados, a combination meal that usually consists of ham, eggs, potatoes, French fries, calamari, salad, croquettes, etc.

Later in the evening, you can enjoy a wonderful dinner at Borda Estevet , an authentic Andorran restaurant. It’s another charming restaurant that will make you feel at home!

Day 7: Travel to the French Riviera and Arrive in Marseille

On day 7 of your Barcelona to French Riviera road trip, it will take you several hours to get from Andorra La Vella to Marseille. Once you arrive in the city, it’s best to take it easy and grab food near your accommodation.

Day 8: Explore Marseille – France’s Second Largest City

Once you’re in Marseille, wake up to a beautiful sunny day, enjoy a croissant and coffee and explore everything this timeless city offers. Marseille is France’s oldest city. It was founded by the Greeks in 600 BC. Nowadays, it’s one of the most diverse cities in Europe!

One of the top things you must do in Marseille, France is to stroll through the Vieux Port (Old Port) and admire the stunning sailboats, yachts and fishing boats. During the summer, Marseille boasts a summer market where you can purchase local jewelry, handmade accessories, trinkets, paintings and more.

You can visit MuCEM ( Museum of Civilizations of Europe and the Mediterranean ) or The Marseille Soap Museum in the Vieux Port. The Vieux Port also has the Fort Saint-Jean , Parc du Pharo and the neo-Byzantine Cathédrale La Major . A great place to enjoy lunch in Marseille’s Vieux Port is L’Entrecôte du Port .

After lunch, it’s best to walk off your food by strolling through Le Panier, the oldest district in Marseille. In this area, you can walk through art galleries, admire talented street art, see beautiful floral facades and watch talented street performers.

A great place to have an afternoon drink is Intercontinental Marseille – Hotel Dieu , which is in Le Panier. This elegant hotel has an outdoor bar that overlooks Marseille’s Vieux Port and it’s a great place to enjoy a glass of local rosé. Another fun spot to enjoy drinks with a view is Le Dantès Skylounge at Sofitel Marseille Vieux Port .

During your time in Marseille, you must savor the city’s staple dish – bouillabaisse. It’s a seafood stew containing many different fish and shellfish. The best place to savor bouillabaisse in Marseille is Chez FonFon . It’s situated on the marina and one of the best places to enjoy dinner in Marseille!

Day 9: Adventure through the Calanques in the South of France

One of the most underrated things to add to your French Riviera itinerary is a day in the Calanques.

There are a few ways to explore the Calanques and one of them is by taking a boat tour from Vieux Port in Marseille to Cassis. If you’re a hiker, you can do many hikes in Parc National des Calanques, such as the Marseilleveyre and Cap Canaille trails.

In addition to hiking, there are plenty of dive sites in the Calanques. You can also enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding and boating opportunities. There are 26 Calanques and there is something for everyone to enjoy! Don’t forget the incredible waterfront restaurants and cafés in this breathtaking National Park.

Marseille and the Calanques have some of the most beautiful beaches, but many are rocky. If you plan to relax at the beach, I suggest wearing comfortable water shoes . There are still plenty of white sandy beaches in the Calanques, such as Cap Croisette.

One of the best sunset spots in the Calanques is Cap Canaille. It’s the highest maritime cliff in France and you can get to it by car! It’s a popular spot for photography, engagement proposals and more.

An excellent restaurant to visit after your day in the Calanques is Restaurant Chez Zé . It’s in the Baumettes area of Marseille, right outside the National Park. You can savor delicious pasta, seafood and meat dishes at this spot.

Day 10: See Lavender Fields and Enjoy a Provence Road Trip

A French Riviera itinerary must include a road trip through Provence! This breathtaking area features some of the most incredible lavender fields in the world! You can easily do a day trip to the Provençal countryside from Marseille.

If you only have a day to see the lavender fields in Provence , then you must visit Valensole. In this area, you can walk through the endless rows of lavender, full of great photo opportunities!

As I mentioned above, you will either need your own vehicle to get out to the lavender fields from Marseille or you will need to do an organized tour . Overall, Valensole is around an hour and a half from Marseille.

The best lavender farms to visit in Valensole are Les Grandes Marges, Terraroma Lavande Amandes, Lavender Angelvin and Puimisson Lavender. I also suggest visiting the town of Valensole, which boasts charming cafés, boutiques, lavender shops and more.

If you have extra time, you must also visit Gorges du Verdon . Please note that it’s over an hour’s drive from Valensole and over two hours from Marseille. It’s an excellent destination for outdoor adventures, but my biggest recommendation is renting a paddle boat on the Lac de Sainte-Croix for a couple of hours.

In addition to Valensole, some of the most beautiful villages to explore during a Provence road trip , if you have time, are Avignon, which is home to the Pont d’Avignon ; Roussillon, which is a medieval town that is earth-toned and famous for the Grand Canyon of France, and Gordes, one of the most picturesque hilltop towns with stone houses. You must also see the Pont du Gard and visit a Provençal market for lavender products!

Please note that lavender in Provence is in peak bloom from late June through early July!

Day 11: Road Trip to Nice, France

A Barcelona and French Riviera road trip itinerary is only completed if it includes Nice! Located on the Côte d’Azur, Nice is France’s 5 th largest city.

It will take you a few hours, by train, to get from Marseille to Nice, but once you arrive, take on the narrow streets in Nice’s Old Town. This picturesque place will have you amazed by all the stunning buildings, street performers, artists and ambiance! Scattered throughout the city are also local markets.

One of the top Nice staples you must try is socca. It’s a chickpea flatbread or pancake that is nice to have with fresh tomatoes and a glass of rosé. As you stroll through Vieux Nice, you must stop at Chez Theresa , Chez Rene Socca and Chez Pipo for a light lunch.

Another great thing to do in Nice during the day is to shop along the Place Masséna. You can find everything from Zara to L’Occitane and Hermès to H&M in this beautiful shopping center. If it’s raining during your trip to Nice, you can visit one of the many museums!

A memorable thing to do during a road trip to Nice is climb Castle Hill and enjoy the city’s best views! It’s located over 300 feet above sea level and where a former Citadel sat.

Since Nice is situated close to the Italian border, you will find great Italian restaurants. One of the best is La Voglia , which is in Old Town Nice. It’s one of the best places to enjoy dinner.

Day 12: Explore Nice: The Best City to Experience on a French Riviera Trip

After having a morning coffee in Old Town, go to one of Nice’s best beach clubs! First, you must stroll along the breathtaking Promenade des Anglais before reserving an oceanfront lounge chair at Opéra Plage .

This beach club is open from 9 am to 8 pm every day during the summer months. It costs €23 for a day at the beach with an umbrella and cabin included, €19 for a half day on the beach with an umbrella and cabin included and €230 for a 12-day pass per person. If you prefer having your umbrella/lounge chair directly facing the water, which I recommend, it’ll cost €28 for the day.

You’ll want to spend the majority of the day at the beach. Other great beach clubs to visit in Nice are below:

• Castel Plage : A fun and swanky beach restaurant that is perfect for those in their 20s and 30s.
• Ruhl Plage : The perfect family-friendly beach club with a restaurant and salt-water children’s pool.
• Blue Beach Club : A popular beach club that draws locals.
• Plage Beau Rivage Beach Club : Recognized for having the best restaurant along the promenade.

Later in the evening, a wonderful place to enjoy dinner on the water is at Les Pêcheurs , where you can savor delicious seafood dishes like bouillabaisse!

Day 13: Road Trip around the Côte d’Azur

A highlight of a Barcelona and South of France road trip is driving the French Riviera. There are a lot of charming villages to visit and spend time in.

You can enjoy many day itineraries from Nice to the villages along the French Riviera. I suggest starting from the furthest village and making your way closer to the city. Your first stop should be closer to the Italian border to the laidback and colorful town of Menton.

From Menton, you must visit Monaco – a hub for the rich! It’s famous for its fascinating Monte Carlo Casino and iconic for the Grand Prix , a Formula 1 motor racing event. Monaco has a port, beaches, and renowned shopping and dining like other villages along the French Riviera.

In the late afternoon, visit the village of Villefranche-Sur-Mer. It’s one of the most charming seaside villages along the French Riviera with a beach, wine bars and quaint narrow streets to wander through.

Other great coastal towns and villages to visit during a French Riviera trip are Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, Èze, St. Tropez, Cannes and Antibes. Most of these towns and villages have a picturesque Old Town, beach clubs and wonderful restaurants.

Day 14: Concluding the Road Trip – Traveling Home from the French Riviera

When it comes time to conclude your Barcelona and French Riviera road trip, the best airport to depart from is Nice Côte d’Azur Airport .

If you wish to continue your trip, I suggest heading into Italy and visiting the Italian Riviera, like Cinque Terre , or discovering the Italian region of Piedmont . You can also head north and discover the Burgundy wine region.

Plan Your Barcelona and French Riviera Itinerary for this Summer!

Looking for other destinations to visit after your road trip? Check out the below spots! Another fantastic European summer trip is to Southern Italy .

Madrid, Spain

Milan, Italy

Alsace, France

I hope you enjoyed following this Barcelona and French Riviera road trip itinerary. If you have any questions, please email me at [email protected].

Click here to book a cooking class!

Basic Facts of Spain, Andorra and France:

Spain – Currency: Euro, Capital: Madrid, Time Zone: Central European Standard Time

Andorra – Currency: Euro, Capital: Andorra La Vella, Time Zone: Central European Time

France – Currency: Euro, Capital: Paris, Time Zone: Central European Time

*Anything could happen during your travels. Always make sure you are insured in case there are unforeseen circumstances such as lost luggage/theft, natural disasters, personal liabilities and more.  Click here  to get insured for your next trip.

In addition, great and secure luggage storage to utilize during your summer Europe trip is  Nannybag ! It is easy to use; all you do is download the  Nannybag  app, and type in the city that you will be visiting and when you plan to arrive and depart. At a small cost per luggage,  Nannybag  will list the stores, restaurants or hotels where you could drop your bag off at the city you are visiting.

Nannybag  is also insured against theft, loss and breakage. It’s a convenient way to store your bags when you are traveling from one city to the next in Europe.

Shop my Barcelona and French Riviera Look:

Click here  to shop my  Poshmark  closet!

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Such an amazing guide to beautiful Barcelona and the French Riviera. After reading this blog and seeing all the stunning photos, this trip has been added to my bucket list. Looks like you saw and experienced some fabulous places! Loved reading this blog and hope to make a family trip there one day!

Love you, mom 👩🏻 ❤️ xoxo

Thank you mom! You would love this part of Europe!

Thanks for a great post. We are in are early 60s from Australia and hoping to do this from Barcelona and then head into Italy. Are the roads safe, parking easy to find in these small villages?

thanks in advance

That sounds like a wonderful trip! The roads are safe, but windy! You can find parking in small villages, but make sure you have everything mapped out in advance. A lot of it is paid parking.

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10 Amazing Day Trips from Barcelona

By: Author Hannah Cooper

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2023

While it’s highly unlikely you’ll run out of things to do in the Catalonian capital, there is no shortage of exciting day trips from Barcelona. There are so many amazing things to do in Barcelona to keep you busy for weeks, but if you are spending a significant amount of time in this region of Spain, it’s worth exploring the wider area of Catalonia and beyond. The whole region of Catalonia is packed with things to do and in addition to the many Barcelona attractions that you can explore, hopping on the train or bus to visit a nearby town is easy and affordable.

This northeastern region of Spain is rich in mountain parks, medieval towns, historic ruins, and seaside villages. It might surprise you that it’s even possible to squeeze in a one-day trip from Barcelona to France and Andorra!

Read on for a selection of the best day tours from Barcelona.

Map of the Best Day Trips from Barcelona

10 Best Day Trips from Barcelona

Depending on your personal travel style, you can choose to book guided Barcelona day trips or travel independently with public transport.

This guide suggests top-rated day trips from Barcelona that offer great value for money and spare you the complication of planning an itinerary. On the other hand, you can opt to take day trips from Barcelona by train, bus, or with a rental car.

Montserrat, Spain is a perfect Barcelona day trip.

1. Montserrat

If you only have time for one day trip from Barcelona, prioritize Montserrat in the Parc Natural de la Muntanya de Montserrat.

This jagged mountain range is a spectacular sight as well as granting views across Catalonia from the summit. Access to the top is a combination of riding the funicular and hiking. In addition, the natural park is the setting of a Benedictine Abbey dedicated to Catalonia’s patron saint, the Black Madonna. This is one of the holiest sites in Spain.

Travel time from central Barcelona via road is only one hour, which makes this perfectly possible for a short Barcelona itinerary. This top-rated Montserrat Monastery & Scenic Mountain Hike includes round travel and guide service.

Furthermore, your booking covers the cost of admission to the monastery and a ride on the funicular. The tour departs early to give you the chance to see the mountain scenery at its best, in the soft morning light.

Otherwise, you can catch the train from Espanya Station in the Plaça d’Espanya. Although this is one of the most typical day trips from Barcelona by train, you will need to consult the schedule with care as trains are not particularly frequent. You can either book the standard Trans Montserrat ticket or upgrade to the Tot Montserrat which includes museum entry and a meal.

There are so many castles and ancient cities to visit as a day trip from Barcelona.

2. Girona (plus Figueres and Cadaqués)

The beautifully photogenic city of Girona is located in northeast Catalonia. Resting on the banks of the River Onyar, the water is flanked by colorful buildings painted terracotta, salmon, and canary yellow.

You can wander the remains of the old city walls and connect with history in the museums and landmarks of the Jewish Quarter. There’s time to dive into some of the tastiest Catalan cuisine during your time in Girona. Read our full guide to the best things to do in Girona .

Fast trains link Barcelona-Sants and Girona in as little as 40 minutes. However, there are several day trips from Barcelona to Girona that tap on a visit to neighboring cities. For example, this Girona, Figueres, and Cadaqués Day Trip ventures to two smaller towns near the French border.

Figueres is home to the largest collection of works by Salvador Dalí at the Dalí Theater-Museum . While admission isn’t included in the tour, there is space in the itinerary to visit the institution. Alternatively, you can visit the ruins of the Castle of San Fernando, swing by the Toy Museum, or hit the shops in town.

On the other hand, Cadaqués is a teeny fishing village with an ancient center and dreamy lookouts over the Iberian Peninsula.

Besalú is a perfect day trip from Barcelona.

3. Besalú and Medieval Towns

Visiting the northern Catalonia town of Besalú is one of the top Barcelona day trips for history enthusiasts.

Besalú features some of the best-conserved medieval buildings in the region, including its Romanesque bridge. The arched Pont de Besalú still maintains its original defense towers.

As this town is not accessible via train, it makes sense to join a tour. This Besalú & Medieval Towns Tour with Hotel Pickup permits a maximum of eight people per group and is focused on the history of Besalú and its surroundings.

In addition to exploring Besalú, this tour includes a pit stop at Vic where you’ll see the old Roman temple juxtaposed with the Roman Catholic Catedral de Sant Pere de Vic.

However, the clifftop village of Castellfollit de la Roca hogs the limelight due to its dramatic position on a basalt ridge high above the Fluvià River. This is one for the photographers!

Colonia Güell near Barcelona.

4. Colonia Güell

Colonia Güell is another of the best day trips from Barcelona if you’re strapped for time but eager to get your fill of Gaudí’s masterpieces.

This old textile village is the home of Gaudí’s crypt plus other Art Nouveau residences, as well as a comprehensive exhibition about the crypt and the colony. In fact, Colonia Güell is relatively unknown – overshadowed by the classic tourist attractions in Spain ’s seaside city. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is where Gaudí experimented with his designs for La Sagrada Familia.

Located just a 20-minute drive out of town, you can take the FGC from Plaza España to Colònia Güell Station. To get the most out of your visit, it’s to pre-book your ticket to Gaudí Crypt in Colònia Güell with Audio Guide . This enables you to explore the “church of the twisted columns” at your own pace and study at leisure!

Costa Brava, Spain.

5. Costa Brava

Technically, Girona, Figueres, and Cadaqués all fall under the umbrella of the Costa Brava. This coastline generally incorporates Blanes right up to the Spain-France border.

With a rental car, you can just about squeeze in a day trip with a couple of stops at a selection of seaside towns and villages. However, this would be more comfortable if you’re looking at weekend trips from Barcelona so you’re less pushed for time.

Fortunately, tours are available to connect you from Barcelona to the Costa Brava. This Costa Brava Full-Day Tour from Barcelona includes stops at Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, Pals, and l’Estartit. Once at l’Estartit, you’ll enjoy a 1-hour 20-minute cruise around the Medes Islands’ archipelago (included in the tour price).

The outing concludes at the Greek and Roman ruins of Èmpuries, the site of a former city where first a Greek and later a Roman settlement existed in unison. Also included in the tour package, a professional guide is available to educate you on the history of the complex.

Tossa de Mar, Spain.

6. Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is one final town on the Costa Blanca deserving of a special mention when looking at day tours from Barcelona.

As one of the southernmost towns on the coast, Tossa de Mar is easy to get to via rental car or bus. Public buses from Estación del Norte take 90 minutes each way and skirt the coastline. On the other hand, Tossa de Mar day tours focus on the water activities available in the bay of this pretty town.

For example, the Costa Brava Kayaking and Snorkeling Day Trip invites you to paddle through secluded bays, volcanic cliffs, and marine life. The outing includes a picnic lunch and sangria upon return to Barcelona.

If you are interested in going diving rather than swimming and you are happy to make your own travel arrangements, you can join this PADI Discovery Scuba Diving once in Tossa de Mar. Diving in this area is absolutely fantastic and for most of the year visibility is fantastic. These are some of the best day trips from Barcelona in summer for adventurous travelers.

Sitges, Spain.

Sitges is a languid fisherman’s town south of Barcelona with a backdrop of the Parc Natural del Garraf and beautiful Mediterranean beaches. Over the course of the last century, it flourished as a hub for Modernism. It’s also one of the best cities to visit in Spain for food, with a fusion of Spanish, Catalan, and international restaurants dotted throughout the center.

Sitges is one of the easiest day trips from Barcelona by train. Services link Barcelona-Sants with Stiges in under 40 minutes. You can spend your day pottering around the museums such as Museu del Cau Ferrat – the home of artist Santiago Rusiñol – before jumping into the sea.

However, if you fancy getting acquainted with the food and natural wine produced locally, consider booking this Food and Natural Wine Tasting . Each tour includes a sample of tapas and delicatessen products plus personal recommendations on where to grab lunch in town.

An alternative option if you can handle an early train to Sitges, the Cycling Tour with Winery Visit and Tasting takes you beyond city limits to the vineyards of the Penedés wine region. A bicycle, helmet, and wine tasting are included.

Tarragona is an amazing day trip from Barcelona.

8. Tarragona

Another city south of Barcelona, Tarragona contains some of the greatest archaeological sites in Spain. In fact, it’s a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The ruins of a Roman amphitheater, public forum, and circus are located right in the heart of the city. In addition, the 36-arch Aqüeducte de les Ferreres is a short drive from the center. After touring the Roman heritage sites, you can explore the medieval churches, alleys, and restaurants of the Part Alta before unwinding with a stroll along Playa el Miracle.

Tarragona is only another 37 miles down the coast from Sitges. As with Sitges, trains depart Tarragona from Barcelona-Sants and take just over 1 hour. If you’d like to visit both cities in one fell swoop, there are Barcelona day tours that take the pressure off lining up your schedule.

Capped at 8 travelers, the Tarragona & Sitges Full Day Tour with Pickup includes a guided tour of Roman and medieval Tarragona plus the fishing village. Admission to both the amphitheater and circus is included.

Include a fun trip to two more countries as a day trip from Barcelona.

9. Pyrenees Mountains

Retreating to the Pyrenees for an afternoon of fresh air and heart-stopping views is one of the most exciting day trips from Barcelona.

Straddling the entire length of the France-Spain border, the Pyrenees register 310 miles (nearly 500 km) with the highest peaks rising to 11,100 ft (3,400 meters). It’s pretty tricky to get there and back in a day without your own transport, so you can either rent a car in Barcelona to head out for the day or if you don’t want to drive it works out best to join a tour.

The Pyrenees Mountains Day Tour whisks you up north to Queralbs, the last village accessible via road vehicle. You’ll have enough time to ogle the fairytale stone buildings before hopping on the funicular which will drop you at Núria.

Once there, you’ll have the option to hike, go horseback riding, take an archery lesson, or rent a boat. Consider customizing your Barcelona packing list for the trip to make sure you have everything you need for a day trip like this.

Naturally, you’ll want to sample traditional Catalan dishes before leaving the valley.

This tour also includes a stop at Vic where you can visit the medieval market .

Visiting France or Andorra as a day trip from Barcelona is not impossible, but if you have more time, add a few extra days to your trip for this itinerary.

10. France and Andorra

One of the more ambitious Barcelona day tours requires a bit of crafty planning as you’ll leave Spain and visit the neighboring countries of France and Andorra.

For that reason, it’s best to tackle this day trip as part of a tour with all transport taken care of. This 3 Countries in 1 Day Small-Group Tour departs bright and early and heads to the French border.

On the way, the bus stops at the small Catalan village of Baga where you’ll stretch your legs. From there, you’ll cross the border into the old spa town of Ax-les-Thermes where you can soak your feet in the thermal springs.

After lunch in France, it’s back on the bus and over the Pyrenees Alps into the Andorran capital, Andorra la Vella. There’s some free time for a stroll and a spot of duty-free shopping before the drive back to Barcelona.

With a full day required for this 12-hour tour, the activity is recommended for travelers spending more than three days in Barcelona . Otherwise, this works out as one of the coolest weekend trips from Barcelona if you have more time on your hands.

See the location on Google for Ax-les-Thermes and Andorra la Vella .

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10 Day France and Spain Tour of Paris, Lyon, French Riviera and Barcelona

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One of our most popular France and Spain trips, this jam-packed journey from Paris to Barcelona is a feast for every sense, from lunch with locals and elegant châteaux in the Loire Valley, to the buzz of Avignon’s Place de l’Horloge and the irresistible French Riviera.

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The top 10 day trips from Barcelona, from divine sights to beautiful beaches

Dec 6, 2023 • 7 min read

Tarragona has lots of lovely restaurants in the square surrounding the cathedral © frantic00 / Getty Images

You could spend weeks in Barcelona and never run out of neighborhoods to explore , things to do , food to try and bars to hop.

But for a taste of Catalan life beyond the metropolis – or simply for a change of pace – take a day trip from Barcelona to experience the mountains, beaches and pretty little towns that are just a short ride away. Here are the 10 best short escapes from beautiful Barcelona. 

1. Savor divinely beautiful views in Montserrat

Travel time: 1 hour, 20 minutes

The mountain of  Montserrat  is home to  Catalonia 's holiest site, the monastery of the same name. The views are spectacular – take walking shoes – and season permitting, you might be able to catch a choir performance inside the  basilica . Afterward, ride the funicular or take a walk down to the  Santa Cova , the spot where La Moreneta – a holy effigy of the virgin – was found, or up to the Sant Jeroni peak for a splendid view of the valley below.

How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona:  The R5 line trains operated by FGC run half-hourly to hourly to and from Barcelona's Plaça d’Espanya station. Next, get the AERI cable car to the monastery from the Montserrat Aeri stop. Alternatively, take the R5 to the next stop (Monistrol de Montserrat), from where cremallera trains run up to the monastery every 20 to 40 minutes.

2. Escape the city to the forests of Collserola

Travel time: 15 minutes

Barcelonins seek out the vast  Parc de Collserola  up in the hills for an escape from city life. Walking and cycling trails run throughout the park, which is dotted with farmhouse-style restaurants. Pick up a map of the various routes from the info center at Carretera de l’Església 92, close to the Baixador de Vallvidrera FGC train station. From here, those with a bit of energy can walk across the hills to Sant Cugat and take the train back to Barcelona from there.

How to get to Collserola from Barcelona:  Get the FGC suburban train from Plaça de Catalunya, Carrer de Provença or Gràcia to Baixador de Vallvidrera.

3. Sunbathe and party in Sitges

Travel time: 40 minutes

The pretty, whitewashed town of  Sitges  is perfect for seafront promenading and sun-worshiping, so in warmer weather, you’ll find the most central beaches quite crowded. Luckily, there are quite a few to choose from, so pick your spot for a morning of sunbathing (or skinny dipping off the nudist beach) before choosing a seafood restaurant nearby.

It’s not all about the sea in Sitges. If you have an interest in contemporary art and in the Modernisme movement, the classy old center’s array of elegant buildings – many housing museums – is well worth some of your time. The town also has great nightlife and a vibrant LGBTIQ+ scene. One of Spain's best Carnaval celebrations is held here (dates change annually), and October brings the Sitges International Film Festival to town.

How to get to Sitges from Barcelona:  From 5am to 10pm, regular trains run from Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia and Sants. Monbus runs from Barcelona every 15 to 50 minutes.

4. Walk through a rainbow in Girona

Travel time: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Girona 's old town is a tight huddle of ancient arcaded houses, grand churches and sloped cobbled streets, with the grand cathedral  looming over it. Until the virtual expulsion of the Jewish population in 1492, Girona was home to a huge Jewish community, and the  Museu d’Història dels Jueus  tells their story.

For a different slice of history, visit the 12th-century  Banys Àrabs  (Arab Baths), which was used as a filming location in  Game of Thrones , and the pretty Romanesque  Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants . Stroll along the Onyar River to look at the colorfully painted houses that flank it or to reach the newer part of town, where you’ll find some excellent tapas bars.

If your pockets are deep enough, Girona also has one of the world’s best restaurants:  El Celler de Can Roca .

How to get to Girona from Barcelona:  Take the train from Barcelona, which runs about every 30 minutes.

5. Relax in friendly and welcoming Vilanova i la Geltrú

Travel time: 45 minutes

Just down the coast beyond Sitges (there is a lovely, hour-long walk along the cliffs you can do to reach it), Vilanova i la Geltrú is a larger, more down-home version that has long dedicated its efforts more to fishing and industry than the leisure business, with a pleasantly unpretentious air.

If you want to spend the day on the beach, Vilanova i la Geltrú is an excellent place to do it. There are some decent, wide beaches (head straight to the south for a lovely little cove) and an interesting railway museum, the Museu del Ferrocarril . 

How to get to Vilanova i la Geltrú from Barcelona:  From 5am to 10pm, regular trains run from Barcelona.

6. Revel in Roman ruins in Tarragona

Travel time: 1 hour

Of a similar size and scale to Girona,  Tarragona  is known for its Roman remains. Since the  Museu d’Història de Tarragona  – which comprises the main Roman sites – tends to be busiest from mid-morning onward, it’s best to start with its  Amfiteatre Romà  and the  Fòrum Provincial  or the excellent  Museu Nacional Arqueològic de Tarragona , which gives a useful overview of the city’s impressive Roman past.

Afterward, head for the grand  cathedral , followed by lunch in one of the many restaurants thereabouts or in the fishing neighborhood of El Serrallo, where you’ll find many fine seafood restaurants.

How to get to Tarragona from Barcelona:  The train station is a 10-minute walk south of the old town near the beach, with services to and from Barcelona every 10 to 30 minutes.

7. Get surreal in Figueres

Travel time: 2 hours

Figueres  has some handsome Modernista architecture, a sprawling 18th-century castle  and a delightful little toy museum, the  Museu del Joguet , but it is best known for the  Teatre-Museu Dalí .

A former theater, it was converted by Dalí himself into a palace of surrealism, protected by tall red walls that bristle with giant eggs, Oscar-like statues and plaster croissants. Inside, you’ll find paintings, a jewelry collection designed by Dalí and some entertaining trompe l’oeil installations. A Teatre-Museu Dalí ticket will get you free entry to the  Museu de l'Empordà , a fantastic art and archaeology museum that's considered one of the best in the region.

How to get to Figueres from Barcelona:  Figueres train station, 800m (0.5 miles) southeast of the center, has half-hourly trains to and from Barcelona.

8. Step back in time in medieval Montblanc

Montblanc is a good-sized medieval walled town with a decent selection of places to eat and sleep. It’s worth a visit on its own merits; however, ideally, you should go with a car to fully explore the Cistercian Route, a triad of stunning monasteries within easy reach of one another at  Poblet ,  Vallbona de les Monges  and  Santes Creues . You’ll need to set off early if you are hoping to see all three.

How to get to Montblanc from Barcelona: Five direct trains a day run from Barcelona Passeig de Gràcia and Sants; the first is around 7am.

9. Shop the local markets in Vic

Travel time: 1 hour, 30 minutes

Vic, with its attractive historic center and some fine restaurants, dominates the flatlands of La Plana de Vic to the south of the Pyrenees and is an easy train ride from Barcelona. Plaça Major, the largest of Catalunya’s central squares, is lined with medieval, Baroque and Modernista mansions. It is still the scene of regular markets, hence its other name, Plaça del Mercadal.

How to get to Vic from Barcelona:  Regular rodalies trains (line R3) run to and from Barcelona.

10. Find a buried treasure in Colònia Güell

Apart from La Sagrada Família , Gaudí’s last big project was the creation of a utopian textile workers’ complex for his magnate patron Eusebi Güell outside Barcelona at Santa Coloma de Cervelló. Gaudí’s main role was to erect the colony’s church,  Colònia Güell , although he only managed to finish the crypt, which is open to visitors. Its mostly brick-clad columns that support the ribbed vaults in the ceiling are inclined at all angles in much the same way that trees in a forest lean and are key to understanding the physics behind his magnum opus, the Sagrada Família.

How to get to Colònia Güell from Barcelona:  Take FGC lines S4, S8 or S33 to Colònia Güell.

This article was first published June 2019 and updated December 2023

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Private Day Tours from Barcelona

Andorra day tour.

Private Andorra day tour from Barcelona. Visit the micro-state Andorra in one day on this private day tour from Barcelona. Private 12 hour day tour / road trip to Andorra and the Pyrenees Mountains from Barcelona. A unique road trip that crosses country borders and mountain passes. Your team of 2 English speaking driver / guides look after you all day Duration : 12 hours 7.30am to 7.30pm

Andorra - 3 Countries in one day!

Private 3 countries in 1 day - Andorra, France and Spain from Barcelona. 12 HOUR day tour with hotel pick-up from Barcelona. Private group road trip to Andorra, France and the Pyrenees Mountains with team of two guides. Spend a unique and wonderful "3 countries in 1 day" road trip tour that crosses three country borders and two mountain passes in one day. Duration : 12 hours 7.30am to 7.30pm

Montserrat Morning!

PRIVATE Half-day tour from Barcelona to Montserrat mountain, monastery and basilica. Private tour with 10 am pickup at your hotel or apartment and with two guides to look after you. Experience the glory of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Duration : 5 hours 10am to 15pm

Andorra Snow Day Tour!

Winter Snow Day Tour from Barcelona to Anodrra with hotel/apartment pick-up and drop off Barcelona in small groups of max 6 guests per minivan and team of two guides. Enjoy a fun day in the snow of the Andorran Pyrenees Mountains Duration : 12 hours 7am to 7pm

Girona & Game of Thrones!

Early Tour. Half-day tour from Barcelona to Girona in small groups of max 7 guests. Walking tour of Girona's charming medieval city and see the ancient 'Call' Jewish quarter, visit Barcelona Cathedral, walk on Roman and Mediaval walls and see all Game of Thrones TV filming locations. Duration : 7 hours 7.30.am to 2.30pm

Tarragona Roman Ruins!

Early Tour . Day tour from Barcelona to Tarragona Roman ruins of Tarraco. UNESCO World Heritage site. Small group minivan to see walk in the footsteps of Romans, gladiator warriors and chariot riders. Includes Roman aqueduct, walls, and amphitheatre, and circus. Duration : 8 hours 7.30 to 3.30pm

South of France Private Day Tour

New Tour! This Signature Private Barcelona to South of France Tour takes you to the beautiful French seaside village Collioure in the Languedoc-Roussillon wine district in a private group with 2 guides and hotel pickup and dropoff. Duration : 12 hours 7am to 7pm

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25 Best Day Trips from Barcelona (Beaches, Towns + More!)

Exploring beyond Barcelona’s city limits unveils a world full of surprises. From serene mountain retreats to charming coastal towns, the area around Barcelona is a treasure trove of experiences.

And having lived in Spain for years, I’ve come to know the area around Barcelona almost as well as the city itself.

So fancy a break from the urban buzz? Whether it’s a day trip to the mystical Montserrat mountains or strolling through the historic streets of Girona. I’m here to guide you through the best day trips from Barcelona, each a unique journey into Catalonia’s heart.

Table of Contents

Best Day Trips from Barcelona

1. montserrat.

First on the list of great day trips from Barcelona is Montserrat. This unique mountain range, located about an hour from Barcelona by train, offers more than just striking natural beauty.

In fact, I’d even go so far as to say that while it’s not in the city itself, Montserrat is easily one of the best reasons to visit Barcelona .

The Montserrat Monastery, situated atop the mountain, is a significant cultural and spiritual site. It’s fascinating to see how the monastery blends into the rocky landscape.

For those who enjoy a good hike, the area is crisscrossed with trails suitable for various skill levels. The Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, with its rich history dating back from the 11th century and remarkable architecture, is a highlight not to be missed.

Fortunately, heading from Barcelona to Montserrat is super easy, as the train from Plaça Espanya station in Barcelona will take you there conveniently in about an hour and a half. That includes the time needed for taking the cable car you have to jump on to get to the top of Montserrat.

…or to really make a day of it, hop on this tour of Montserrat Tour, with Monastery and Winery visits to really discover everything this iconic mountain range has to offer (and, of course, transport all organized).

Starting with a scenic cogwheel train ride, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of Montserrat’s peaks . Explore the historic Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey , marvel at its stunning interiors, and if you wish, visit the revered Black Madonna.

You can choose between a half-day or a full-day tour, with the full-day option including a visit to an amazing boutique winery up in the mountains . You’ll get tapas or lunch, depending on your choice, learn about local winemaking, and enjoy a tasting session.

Safe to say, you’re in for a memorable day!

If you’re craving some sun, sea, and sand, look no further than the charming coastal town of Sitges. Just a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona, Sitges is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

Famous for its incredible beaches, Sitges also boasts an impressive array of historical buildings and cultural hotspots. If you’re interested in art, check out the Cau Ferrat Museum, once the home of artist Santiago Rusiñol. It provides a glimpse into the artistic heritage of the region.

The town is also known for its vibrant culinary scene, offering a chance to taste fresh local seafood and traditional Catalan dishes. And as the sun begins to set, experience the vibrant nightlife by visiting the numerous bars and clubs that line the town’s streets.

From cozy wine bars to all-night dance clubs, Sitges has something for everyone looking to let loose and have a great time – whether it’s just for a day or as a weekend trip from Barcelona !

A great, hassle-free way to see Sitges (and, bonus, Tarragona – which I’ll get to in a moment!) is with this Tarragona and Sitges Tour from Barcelona . This small group tour, capped at 8 people, honestly feels like a day out with friends.

You’ll get to wander through the ancient Roman ruins of Tarragona, soak up the artsy vibes in Sitges, and unwind on its beautiful beach .

Plus, your transport is all sorted with hotel pick-up and drop-off . It’s the perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation!

Girona is only about an hour and a half away by train but feels like you’re stepping into a new world – and you sort of are! This city is a tapestry of history, with its well-preserved medieval architecture and narrow streets.

In particular, fans of ‘Game of Thrones’ might recognize some parts of the city – and there’s even a Game of Thrones walking tour of Girona if you don’t want to miss anything.

The Girona Cathedral stands tall in the center of town as a testament to various architectural styles and centuries of history. The Jewish Quarter, or El Call, is another fascinating part of Girona’s old town that’s worth exploring.

This historic area features narrow, winding streets and a rich history dating back to the 12th century. And don’t forget to explore the nearby Arab Baths, a tranquil oasis that transports you back to the days of Moorish rule.

(In fact, if you love history, this small group walking tour of Girona is a great way to learn more about the past 2,000 years that have taken place here.)

A walk along the Onyar River is a must-do, with the picturesque, brightly colored houses lining the riverbank. Girona is also renowned for its food, so it’s a great opportunity to explore Catalan cuisine, known for its diverse flavors and local ingredients.

If you want everything sorted out for you, the  Girona and Costa Brava Full-Day Tour from Barcelona  is a fantastic way to experience this. It takes you through the winding medieval streets of Girona and the dramatic landscapes of the Costa Brava .

Highlights include a visit to the picturesque fishing village of Calella de Palafurgell and the opportunity to learn about the ancient pathways of the Caminos de Ronda.

With a small-group setting and hotel pickup and drop-off included in Barcelona , it’s a very convenient (and fun!) way to spend your day.

4. Tarragona

Tarragona, about an hour’s train ride south of Barcelona, is a treasure trove of ancient history and Roman architecture, meaning that doing a city tour from Barcelona to Tarragona is a great idea for history buffs. In particular, this city, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Spain.

The Roman amphitheater, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, is a highlight and offers a glimpse into the past. Plus, the Tarragona Cathedral, with its mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, is definitely worth a visit.

To learn more once you get here, this Roman Heritage Guided Walking Tour of Tarragona is a great option. They’ll take you to the amphitheater, Roman walls and more, while explaining all the incredible history of this part of Spain.

Besides its historical significance, Tarragona’s old town, with its narrow streets filled with vibrant cafes and shops, offers a relaxing ambiance. The city’s proximity to the beach makes it an ideal spot for those who want to combine history with some leisure time by the sea (and maybe a coffee or an ice cream while you’re at it).

5. Penedès Wine Region

The Penedès Wine Region, approximately a 45-minute drive from Barcelona, is a must-visit for wine aficionados. Renowned for its exceptional wines and sparkling cavas, this region offers an unforgettable day trip experience for wine enthusiasts and culinary explorers alike.

Begin your adventure with a visit to one of the many wineries in the area, such as the world-famous Freixenet or Codorníu, both known for their outstanding cavas. Take a guided tour of the vineyards, learn about the wine-making process, and indulge in tastings of their finest products.

For a more intimate experience, consider exploring some of the smaller, family-owned wineries in the region, such as Albet i Noya or Can Ràfols dels Caus, where you can enjoy a personalized tour and sample unique, locally-produced wines.

If you’re keen to do wine tastings while you’re here, it’s much better to have someone else do the driving for you from Barcelona. And that’s exactly why I recommend this Penedès Vineyards Tour .

You’ll head to  two boutique wineries with tastings of three wines and four types of cava  with local cheese and charcuterie. From there, you’ll be taken on a  4×4 adventure tour of the historic 2,000 year old vineyards , including a 10th century chapel on the estate.

It’s a seriously good day tour, perfect for those wanting a full experience of the famous Penedès wine region.

In addition to its wine offerings, the Penedès region is home to charming towns and picturesque landscapes. Visit the quaint village of Vilafranca del Penedès, where you can wander through the bustling market, admire the historic architecture, and sample delicious local cuisine at a cozy restaurant.

Journey to the enchanting town of Besalú, a well-preserved medieval gem located just under 2 hours away from Barcelona by car. This small town is a real step back in time with its well-preserved medieval architecture.

Besalú is famous for its iconic 12th-century Romanesque bridge that spans the Fluvià river, providing a stunning entrance to the town. Walking through the old streets, you’ll encounter a range of historic buildings, including the Church of Sant Pere, a beautiful Romanesque structure dating back to the 10th century, and the remains of a medieval synagogue.

History enthusiasts will also appreciate the Jewish Quarter, where you can explore the remnants of a once-thriving Jewish community, including the fascinating Miqvé, a well-preserved medieval Jewish ritual bath. The town’s cozy cafes and artisan shops add to its charm, making it a perfect place to wander and explore at a leisurely pace.

Want to see three of the best medieval villages in Catalonia in one day , including Besalú? This Medieval Villages Day Tour from Barcelona is for you.

You’ll wander through Besalú’s medieval streets, discover Rupit’s quaint bridges and houses, and marvel at Tavertet’s stunning cliff-top views. It’s incredibly picturesque with fascinating history – and, of course, plenty of photo ops.

Even the drive back to Barcelona is beyond scenic, with sweeping views of forests and mountains as you go.

7. Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar, a charming seaside town along the Costa Brava, is just 1.5 hours away from Barcelona by car or bus.

( I recommend this Costa Brava day tour for seeing the best of this town. You’ll get to explore Tossa de Mar with an expert guide, enjoy the area’s amazing seafood, and get to sail off the coast to enjoy the incredible landscapes – and, of course, some time on the Mediterranean!)

This coastal town is famous for its stunning beaches and the impressive medieval fortress, Vila Vella, that dominates the town’s skyline. The fortress, with its towers and walls, provides panoramic views of the coastline and the town.

Inside, you’ll find cobbled streets, quaint houses, and local artisan shops. You’ll be able to take in the stunning views and well-preserved medieval architecture, including a visit to the remains of the Castle of Tossa de Mar.

The town’s beaches, such as Platja Gran, are perfect for a relaxing day by the sea, with the nearby Cala Pola or Cala Bona letting you enjoy even calmer surroundings and crystal-clear waters. Tossa de Mar also has a vibrant culinary scene, with plenty of options to try fresh seafood and traditional Catalan dishes.

8. Figueres

Art lovers, rejoice! Figueres, the birthplace of surrealist master Salvador Dalí, is a must-visit destination just an hour and a half from Barcelona by train.

The star attraction of this small Catalan town is undoubtedly the Dalí Theatre-Museum, as it houses an extensive collection of the artist’s works. You’ll have the chance to explore the museum’s labyrinth of rooms, where you’ll find everything from Dalí’s most famous paintings to lesser-known sculptures, drawings, and even furniture.

Beyond the museum, Figueres offers a charming old town with a lively atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a bite to eat at one of the local tapas bars. You can even choose to explore the 18th-century Sant Ferran Castle, one of the largest fortresses in Europe, offering panoramic views of the town and surrounding landscape.

If you want to see the highlights of Figueres – with a bonus trip to another beautiful town, Cadaqués, which I’ll mention in a moment – this Figueres and Cadaqués day tour from Barcelona is a great option.

With your expert guide, you’ll explore the weird world of Salvador Dalí, starting at the Dalí Museum in his hometown, Figueres.

Then, depending on the season, you’ll either wander through the picturesque streets of Cadaqués , soaking up the beach vibes, or visit a beautiful medieval town and Dalí’s enchanting Pubol Castle .

Let’s just say you’re in for a day full of surreal art, stunning landscapes, and incredible history.

9. Castellfollit de la Roca

Castellfollit de la Roca, a picturesque town in Catalonia, sits dramatically on a slender basalt cliff rising over 50 meters high. This town, with its ancient stone houses perched precariously on the cliff’s edge, offers a view you’re unlikely to forget.

Although it’s one of the smaller towns in the region, its stunning location and quaint streets make it an ideal destination for photography enthusiasts and those seeking a distinct experience. The town is celebrated for its local products, providing a wonderful opportunity to sample Catalan culinary delights.

Reaching Castellfollit de la Roca involves a scenic, roughly two-hour drive from Barcelona. The journey itself is an experience, passing through some captivating landscapes.

And for those preferring a stress-free organized trip, consider joining the guided Medieval Villages Day Tour from Barcelona that I mentioned earlier – it also includes a stop at Castellfollit de la Roca!

10. Cadaqués

Cadaqués is a picturesque town on the Costa Brava. Known for its whitewashed houses and cobblestone streets, it’s like stepping into a postcard.

This town gained fame as a favorite spot of Salvador Dalí, and you can visit his house in the nearby Portlligat, which has been converted into a museum. The rugged coastline around Cadaqués is stunning, with small coves and beaches to explore.

In fact, once you arrive, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade, where you’ll find local artists selling their creations and inviting cafes perfect for a seaside snack. Wander through the maze of charming streets, and don’t miss the beautiful Church of Santa Maria, offering panoramic views of the town and the coast.

The town itself offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for strolling through the streets and exploring local art galleries. The local cuisine here, particularly seafood, is a highlight, and you’ll find many restaurants offering fresh and tasty dishes.

Getting to Cadaqués is a bit of an adventure – it’s about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Barcelona. The roads are winding but offer some spectacular views. There’s no direct train, so driving is your best bet.

…or, of course, there’s always that Figueres and Cadaqués day tour from Barcelona I spoke about above. It will get you there with zero hassle on your side – and will make sure you see all the highlights!

(Just keep in mind that the tour doesn’t include Cadaqués in July and August, as it visits somewhere else then. But the rest of the year, you’re good to go.)

11. Miravet

Miravet, a small yet captivating town, is renowned for its traditional pottery. The town is dominated by a striking Templar castle, set high above the Ebro River. The effort to climb to the castle is rewarded with expansive views.

The Ebro River enhances Miravet’s allure, offering options for a peaceful boat ride or a stroll along its banks. You can also opt for a guided kayaking tour of the Ebro River from Miravet to learn about the area’s rich history and natural beauty.

Miravet’s serene ambiance makes it an ideal spot for relaxation. A car journey of about two hours from Barcelona is the most practical way to reach this somewhat off-the-beaten-path location.

12. Montblanc

Montblanc, located about an hour and forty-five minutes by car from Barcelona, is a hidden gem steeped in medieval history. The town is encircled by well-preserved medieval walls and gates, and wandering through its narrow streets feels like a journey back in time.

Begin your visit by exploring the town’s ancient walls, which date back to the 14th century and offer stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admiring the charming stone houses adorned with colorful flower boxes, and make your way to the impressive Gothic-style Santa Maria Church.

History buffs will particularly love the various landmarks and monuments scattered throughout the town, such as the medieval Pont Vell (Old Bridge) and the picturesque Plaça Major, the heart of Montblanc’s social life. If you’re visiting during late April, don’t miss the Medieval Week, a lively festival that celebrates Montblanc’s rich history with reenactments, artisan markets, and more.

13. Badalona

Just a stone’s throw from Barcelona, Badalona presents its unique allure, often overshadowed by its famous neighbor. The beach here is particularly noteworthy – it offers the same scenic beauty as Barcelona’s beaches but with fewer crowds.

A leisurely walk along the Badalona promenade is a great experience, especially on a sunny day. The city also boasts a rich historical tapestry, highlighted by the Roman ruins of the ancient city of Baetulo.

A visit to the Badalona Museum is also a good way to explore this history. Conveniently, Badalona is very accessible from Barcelona, being just a 15-minute train or car ride away, making it an ideal destination for an impromptu day trip.

And as a more luxurious alternative, why not check out this catamaran tour from Barcelona to Badalona – with a winery visit included!

You’ll relax on the luxury catamaran , drink in hand, as you take in Barcelona’s skyline from the sea. Then, you’ll be whisked off to a beautiful local winery where you’ll explore vineyards , learn about organic winemaking, and enjoy a wine tasting with local snacks.

It’s a perfect mix of sea, sun, and sips – all in an easy 4-hour getaway.

A little over an hour away from Barcelona by train, the delightful town of Vic offers a blend of history, culture, and picturesque beauty that makes it an ideal day trip destination. Renowned for its well-preserved medieval center and bustling markets, Vic provides a charming escape from the city.

Begin your exploration in the vibrant Plaça Major, the heart of Vic’s old town, surrounded by colorful arcaded buildings and bustling with activity. This lively square hosts a popular market on Tuesdays and Saturdays, perfect for picking up local products (Vic is also famous for its cured meats, particularly salchichón) or simply people-watching from one of the many terrace cafes.

Take a leisurely stroll to the nearby Vic Cathedral, a stunning example of a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Neoclassical. Don’t miss the chance to visit the adjacent Episcopal Museum, which houses an impressive collection of medieval art and artifacts.

It’s not all about history though, as nature lovers should head to the nearby Parc de S’Armengou, a great green space that offers walking trails, picnic spots, and beautiful views of the town and the surrounding countryside. With its rich history and charming atmosphere, Vic is a delightful destination that will leave you eager to return.

15. Cardona

Cardona, situated about an hour and a half’s drive from Barcelona, is a town steeped in history and natural beauty. The most striking feature of Cardona is its imposing castle, which dates back to the 9th century.

The Castle of Cardona, perched on a hilltop, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valley. This historic fortress also houses the Collegiate Church of Sant Vicenç, a fine example of Catalan Romanesque architecture.

And for an unforgettable experience, consider booking a guided tour of the castle’s medieval tower, known as the Torre de la Minyona, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Next, venture to the nearby Cardona Salt Mountain Cultural Park, a truly unique attraction showcasing one of the most important salt deposits in the world. Take a guided tour of the former salt mine, now a fascinating museum, and learn about the history and significance of salt extraction in the region.

Cardona’s charming old town, with its narrow streets and lovely squares, is also worth a visit. Take a leisurely walk and admire the beautiful Romanesque Church of Sant Miquel, a testament to the town’s rich history and architectural heritage.

16. Lloret de Mar

Lloret de Mar, about an hour’s drive from Barcelona, is a popular coastal destination known for its vibrant beaches and lively atmosphere. While it’s a favorite spot for those seeking a lively beach scene, Lloret de Mar also has a cultural side worth exploring.

The town’s main attraction is the Castle of Sant Joan, an ancient fortress with parts dating back to the 11th century, offering panoramic views of the coastline. For a more tranquil experience, the Santa Clotilde Gardens, situated on a cliff overlooking the sea, provide a serene and picturesque setting.

The town’s maritime promenade is lined with restaurants and shops, making it a great place to enjoy local seafood and do some shopping.

About an hour’s drive from Barcelona, Blanes is a coastal town that offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural experiences. Known as the “Gateway to the Costa Brava,” Blanes is famous for its stunning beaches and the Marimurtra Botanical Garden, one of Europe’s most important botanical gardens with a breathtaking array of plants and spectacular sea views.

Another highlight is the Sa Palomera Rock, a large rock that marks the start of the Costa Brava and provides stunning views of the coastline. For history enthusiasts, the Castillo de San Juan, a medieval castle perched on a hill, offers a glimpse into the past and panoramic views of the town.

The town center of Blanes is vibrant, with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it a great place to explore and enjoy local cuisine.

18. Sant Cugat del Vallès

Sant Cugat del Vallès, located just a 30-minute train ride from Barcelona, is a charming town with a rich history. The most notable attraction in Sant Cugat is the Monastery of Sant Cugat , an impressive example of Catalan medieval architecture dating back to the 9th century with one of the most beautiful cloisters in the region.

Stroll through the narrow, winding streets of Sant Cugat’s old town, stopping to admire the beautiful Plaça Octaviano, a bustling square surrounded by cafes and restaurants. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Modernist-style Casa Aymat, a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture.

For a dose of nature, head to Parc Central, a beautiful green space that offers walking paths, a pond, and ample spots for picnicking or simply relaxing under the shade of trees.

Sant Cugat offers a relaxing atmosphere with its pedestrian-friendly streets, lovely parks, and a variety of cafes and restaurants where you can savor local dishes and enjoy the laid-back lifestyle.

19. Terrassa

Immerse yourself in the rich history and architectural treasures of Terrassa, a city located just a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona. Known for its significant collection of Modernist buildings and ancient Roman ruins, Terrassa offers a unique day trip experience that caters to both history enthusiasts and architecture buffs.

Begin your visit by exploring the Vallparadís Park, a sprawling green space that houses the fascinating Terrassa Museum, which includes the Castle of Vallparadís and the Iberian settlement of Les Martines. Wander through the park’s picturesque grounds, taking in the beauty of the surrounding nature and the historic sites it encompasses.

Make your way to the Plaça Vella, a lively square surrounded by charming buildings, cafes, and shops. Here, you’ll find the impressive Romanesque Church of Sant Pere, a historic complex consisting of three churches that showcase distinct architectural styles from the 5th to the 12th centuries.

Don’t miss the opportunity to explore Terrassa’s Modernist heritage, with highlights such as the Casa Alegre de Sagrera, the Vapor Aymerich, Amat i Jover textile mill (now the Museum of Science and Technology of Catalonia), and the stunning Masia Freixa, a beautiful example of Modernist architecture designed by Lluís Muncunill.

20. Montseny Natural Park

Montseny Natural Park, located about an hour’s drive from Barcelona, is a natural paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. This UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve boasts a diverse landscape with lush forests, rolling hills, and serene streams. It’s a perfect place for hiking, with trails suitable for all levels, offering stunning views of the Catalan countryside.

Whether you prefer leisurely walks or challenging hikes, Montseny Natural Park offers a variety of trails to suit all levels of fitness and experience. Trek through lush forests, climb rugged peaks, or meander along the banks of crystal-clear streams, all while taking in the park’s incredible biodiversity.

For those interested in the cultural heritage of the area, be sure to visit the Montseny Ethnological Museum, which provides insight into the traditional way of life in the region. Alternatively, explore the picturesque villages nestled within the park’s boundaries, such as Viladrau, Santa Fe del Montseny, or Seva, where you can enjoy local cuisine and experience the warmth of the welcoming communities.

Mataró, located about a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona, is a coastal city with a rich cultural and historical heritage. Boasting a rich history, lovely beaches, and a thriving cultural scene, Mataró provides a great day trip from Barcelona for those looking to explore the lesser-known gems of Catalonia.

Start your day at one of Mataró’s beautiful beaches, such as Platja del Callao or Platja de Sant Simó, where you can soak up the sun, take a refreshing dip in the Mediterranean, or try your hand at water sports like paddleboarding or sailing.

From there, head into the city’s rich history by visiting the Roman villa of Torre Llauder, an archaeological site that offers insight into Mataró’s ancient past. Wander through the charming old town, stopping to admire the Basilica of Santa Maria, a striking example of Gothic architecture, or the Modernist buildings designed by the renowned architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.

For art lovers, the Fundació Iluro is a must-visit, showcasing a diverse collection of contemporary art in a beautifully restored 18th-century building. Round off your day with a visit to one of Mataró’s lively bars or restaurants, where you can savor delicious seafood dishes and soak up the local atmosphere.

22. Castelldefels

Castelldefels, just a 30-minute train ride from Barcelona, is a coastal town that offers a perfect blend of beach relaxation and historical exploration. Boasting a magnificent beach, a historic castle, and a variety of leisure activities, Castelldefels is an ideal day trip destination for relaxation-seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike.

Kick off your visit by heading to the massive Platja de Castelldefels, a 5 km stretch of golden sand and inviting Mediterranean waters. This beautiful beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or taking part in water sports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding.

Anyone who’s keen on history won’t want to miss the Castle of Castelldefels , a hilltop fortress dating back to the 10th century. Wander through the castle’s grounds and enjoy panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline.

Nature lovers will appreciate a visit to the Canal Olímpic de Catalunya, a water sports facility originally built for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics. Here, you can rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddleboards and explore the peaceful waterways surrounded by lush vegetation.

23. Vilanova i la Geltrú

Vilanova i la Geltrú, approximately a 45-minute train journey from Barcelona, is a great seaside town with a rich maritime heritage. Known for its beautiful beaches, bustling marina, and rich cultural heritage, Vilanova i la Geltrú offers a fun day trip from Barcelona that caters to a wide range of interests.

Spend a relaxing day at one of the town’s incredible beaches, such as Platja del Far, Platja de Ribes Roges, or the quieter Cala Ginesta. Bask in the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or get moving with activities like beach volleyball or paddleboarding.

Immerse yourself in the town’s history by visiting the Vilanova i la Geltrú Railway Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of vintage locomotives and rolling stock. Alternatively, explore the charming old town, with its narrow streets, traditional shops, and the impressive neoclassical-style Church of Sant Antoni Abat.

For a taste of the local culinary scene, head to the bustling La Geltrú Fish Market or enjoy a delicious seafood meal at one of the many restaurants along the marina.

24. Horta de Sant Joan

Horta de Sant Joan is a hidden treasure up in the mountains, renowned for its breathtaking natural scenery. Famed as a place of inspiration for Picasso, who claimed to have learned much during his time here, the town exudes an artistic legacy.

One of its main attractions is the Parc Natural dels Ports, a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, featuring rugged landscapes and numerous trails. The town itself, with its historical stone buildings and narrow alleys, transports visitors to a bygone era.

Just keep in mind that getting to Horta de Sant Joan requires a bit of travel, approximately two and a half hours by car from Barcelona, as there’s no direct train service to this scenic mountain retreat.

25. Siurana

Siurana, a bit further from Barcelona, is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. This small village sits atop a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Adding to its dramatic appeal are the ruins of an ancient castle, creating a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The village, with its quaint streets and traditional stone houses, transports visitors to another time.

Siurana is a popular spot for climbers and hikers due to its challenging terrain and picturesque trails. However, its natural beauty alone is enough reason to visit, even for those who aren’t into adventurous sports.

Reaching Siurana is an adventure in itself, involving about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Barcelona, as there’s no direct public transport option. That said, a car journey to this clifftop village is well worth the effort.

What is the closest beach town to Barcelona?

While there are several lovely beaches within Barcelona itself, the closest beach town to the city is Castelldefels. Located just 25 minutes away by train or car, Castelldefels offers a laid-back atmosphere, an expansive stretch of golden sand, and a variety of water sports and leisure activities. 

With its picturesque beach, historic castle, and lively promenade, Castelldefels is an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy the Mediterranean coast without venturing too far from the city.

What beach towns are by train from Barcelona?

The beautiful coastal region of Catalonia boasts numerous picturesque beach towns that can be easily accessed by train from Barcelona. 

For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, these charming destinations offer sun, sand, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway:

• Sitges: Just a 30-minute train ride from Barcelona, Sitges is known for its beautiful beaches and historic old town. With a lively promenade, fantastic restaurants, and a range of cultural attractions, Sitges is a popular choice for those looking to enjoy the Mediterranean coast.
• Mataró: Located only 30 minutes away by train, Mataró offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and beautiful beaches. Spend a relaxing day at Platja del Callao or Platja de Sant Simó, and explore the city’s rich history by visiting the Roman villa of Torre Llauder or the Modernist buildings designed by architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch.
• Castelldefels: A 25-minute train ride from Barcelona, Castelldefels is known for its expansive 5 km-long beach, Platja de Castelldefels, and its historic hilltop castle. The town also offers numerous water sports and leisure activities, making it an ideal destination for a fun-filled day trip.
• Vilanova i la Geltrú: Just 45 minutes away by train, Vilanova i la Geltrú boasts beautiful beaches, a bustling marina, and a rich cultural heritage. Relax at Platja del Far or Platja de Ribes Roges, and explore the town’s history by visiting the Vilanova i la Geltrú Railway Museum or the charming old town.
• Calella: Approximately an hour’s train journey from Barcelona, Calella is a family-friendly destination with a lovely beach and a range of attractions suitable for all ages. Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at Platja Gran de Calella or stroll through the town’s pedestrianized shopping streets.
• Blanes: Situated 1.5 hours away by train, Blanes is known as the “Gateway to the Costa Brava” and features beautiful beaches, botanical gardens, and historic sites. Spend a relaxing day at Platja de Blanes or S’Abanell Beach, and explore the town’s history by visiting the Castle of Sant Joan.

These beach towns, all easily accessible by train from Barcelona, offer diverse experiences and attractions for those looking to venture out of the city. 

Is Sitges Worth a Day Trip?

Absolutely! Sitges is a charming coastal town that has gained popularity due to its beautiful beaches, historic old town, and vibrant cultural scene. Just a 30-minute train ride from Barcelona, Sitges is an easily accessible destination that offers a delightful change of pace from the bustling city.

With 17 sandy beaches to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding the perfect spot to relax and soak up the sun. The town also boasts a picturesque promenade lined with palm trees, where you can take a leisurely stroll, dine at one of the many waterfront restaurants, or simply enjoy the stunning sea views.

Sitges is known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic atmosphere, with a range of museums and galleries to explore, including the Cau Ferrat Museum and the Maricel Museum. The town’s historic center is a maze of narrow, cobbled streets that are home to beautiful architecture, such as the Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, as well as quaint boutiques and cozy cafes.

The town also hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Sitges International Film Festival and the famous Sitges Carnival. No matter when you visit, you’re likely to find something exciting happening in this vibrant town.

Is it Worth Going to Tarragona?

Yes, a visit to Tarragona is absolutely worth it, especially for history and culture enthusiasts. This fascinating city, located about 1 hour and 10 minutes away from Barcelona by train, boasts a rich Roman history, impressive architectural landmarks, and a captivating old town.

Tarragona is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the magnificent Roman amphitheater, which once hosted gladiatorial battles and is now a must-visit attraction. Other significant Roman sites include the impressive Tarragona Cathedral, the Roman Circus, and the ancient city walls.

The city’s old town, known as Part Alta, is a treasure trove of narrow, winding streets, charming squares, and picturesque plazas. Take a leisurely stroll through this historic area, stopping to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, visit local shops, and dine at one of the many delightful restaurants.

In addition to its historical sites, Tarragona also hosts a variety of festivals and cultural events throughout the year, such as the Tarraco Viva Festival, which celebrates the city’s Roman heritage with reenactments, workshops, and exhibitions.

Does Tarragona Have a Nice Beach?

Yes, Tarragona has several lovely beaches where you can relax and enjoy the Mediterranean sun. The city’s main beach, Platja del Miracle, is located just a short walk from the city center and features golden sand, calm waters, and a range of facilities, including sunbed and umbrella rentals, showers, and restrooms.

For a more secluded experience, consider visiting one of the smaller beaches in the area, such as Platja de l’Arrabassada, Platja de la Savinosa, or Platja Fonda. These tranquil spots offer a more serene atmosphere and are perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking in the beautiful surroundings.

What’s your ideal Spanish vacation spot?

Are you a foodie or history buff? Prefer to chill at a beach or explore the city?

Whatever your travel style, discover the perfect Spanish city to add to your trip here!

Anna is the founder of Spain Inspired, where she shares insider tips and hidden gems to inspire thousands of visitors each month to take the road less traveled and explore Spain like a local. Having lived in Spain for some time now, Anna's made it her mission to help fellow travelers experience the very best of this stunning country - with some great wine and tapas along the way, ideally!

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The 10 Best Day Trips From Barcelona (2023)

Barcelona is the vibrant capital of Catalonia and a must-visit on any itinerary through Spain. While there, it is so convenient to take wonderful day trips around the region.

Perched on the shores of northeastern Spain, Barcelona has captivated visitors’ imaginations for centuries. Winding alleys, the energetic boulevard La Ramblas, and enough Gaudi sights to please even the most enthusiastic architectural fans make it a European favorite.

Barcelona has an unrivaled foodie scene with incredible restaurants and cafes. More than cuisine, the city offers a seamless fusion of contemporary and old-world charm. Once a Roman-founded city, there’s plenty to keep you busy on any Barcelona itinerary . Adored as a cultural hotspot, Barcelona has taken on a life of its own.

There is no shortage of incredible day trips from Barcelona to help you explore more of Spain. Beyond the city limits, go sightseeing from the golden coastline of the Costa Brava to the Roman ruins of Tarragona.

I had the pleasure of living for several months in Barcelona, taking advantage of the many day trips nearby. There is a lot to do so be sure to make the most of your time with this list of the best Barcelona day trips.

10 Best Day Trips From Barcelona

The brightly colored town of Girona is an easy day trip from Barcelona. Cobbled streets flanked by arcaded houses fill the Old Town under the lofty Grand Cathedral. The medieval walls have been home to a variety of residents throughout history, from the Romans to the Moors and more.

Eagle-eyed fans may recognize Girona’s Banys Arabs as one of the sets from Game of Thrones. It’s a brilliant place to discover some of the city’s history. A visit to Girona is not complete without strolling by the Onyar River, where colorful houses line the town’s center. Consider hopping on this Girona and Costa Brava guided day trip which takes you to Girona and the nearby area.

How to get there : You can reach Girona from Barcelona in just 40 minutes via high-speed train from Barcelona-Sants to Girona station.

2. Figueres

One hour northeast of Barcelona, Figueres is home to Spain’s third most-visited site, Teatre-Museu Dalí. A museum that embraces all that Dali’s surrealism embodies, it is both interactive and cheeky in its approach. 

There’s more to Figueres than Dali’s homage to surrealism. Explore the Alt Empordà region by strolling through a pedestrian street called La Rambla de Figueres. This charming capital offers a mix of modern cafes and restaurants, along with an 18th-century castle. You could even combine Girona with a visit to Figueres on this small-group tour .

How to get there : The fastest way to Figueres from Barcelona is by high-speed train from Barcelona-Sants to Figueres Vilafant which takes just 55 minutes. Trains run twice hourly.

3. Montserrat

Head out into the Spanish countryside to visit one of the country’s holiest sites. At the top of a ragged mountain range is Montserrat Monastery, a Benedictine monastery with origins dating back to 880 AD. The monastery is also the location of the Virgin of Montserrat, one of a handful of black madonnas of Europe.

Montserrat is a popular day trip from Barcelona with beautiful views and a memorable cultural experience for visitors. Adventurous travelers can hike to the highest peak at Sant Jeroni or take the cable car to enjoy the scenic views as you make your way to the top. If you want to do all of those things, this half-day tour includes the hike, entrance tickets, and cable car.

How to get there : A lot of travelers visit by car, but if you don’t fancy hiring one then public transport to Montserrat is easy too. The train from Plaça Espanya in Barcelona to Monistrol de Montserrat takes approximately one hour via the R5 line. From there, the cremallera trains run every 20-40 minutes up to the monastery.

Along the coastline southwest of Barcelona is Sitges, the whitewashed seaside town that has become a weekend beach escape for Barcelonans. You have two options: relaxing on the beaches or visiting the Church of Sant Bartomeu and Museu del Cau Ferrat. By visiting these places, you will have the opportunity to learn about history and culture.

The former fishing village has attracted artists and intellectuals since the 1960s and now boasts a vibrant LGBTQI+ scene. If you’re visiting in February or March, it’s worth checking out the Carnaval for a series of parades and masked balls. 

One way to experience Sitges is on a combined tour that also offers an opportunity to see Montserrat on the way.

How to get there : Trains run every 20 minutes or so from Barcelona Sants station to Sitges, where you depart just 500 meters from the beach. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes and it’s easy to purchase train tickets directly at the station before departing.

5. Tarragona

Spain has no shortage of Roman ruins to be visited, but Tarragona has some of the best. Once the most elegant and cultured city of Roman Spain, a Tarragona day trip must include a selection of the finest Roman ruins including Amfiteatre Romà and the Fòrum Provincial.

As Catalonia’s second largest port town, seafood is aplenty. Head to Serrallo fishing quarter for the freshest fish dishes for lunch before finishing the afternoon sightseeing at the grand cathedral. 

How to get there : In less than 1 hour and 30 minutes, you can reach Tarragona by train from Barcelona-Paseo De Gracia station.

6. Colonia Güell

Colonia Güell in the Santa Coloma de Cervelló area of southwest Barcelona is an ideal day trip from Barcelona. A former industrial village, the site was commissioned by Count Eusebi de Güell to support workers from his textile mill.

Gaudi was the architect assigned the honor of designing the town’s church, the Church of Colònia Güell. During his time, he only managed to complete the crypt. Assigned as a UNESCO-listed world heritage site, the crypt is now open to visitors. You should consider pre-booking tickets with an Audio Guide !

How to get there : Take FGC lines S4, S8 or S33 to Colònia Güell from central Barcelona.

Postcard perfect, Begur is one of the best day trips from Barcelona. Whitewashed buildings, towering trees, and a laid-back atmosphere make it a dreamy destination. Day trippers will love Begur. A 15th-century medieval castle is perched atop a hill that overlooks the town and several fishing villages in the area have retained their charm.

From the town’s colorful historic quarter to the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean, Begur is a total delight. Looking for beaches? Some of the best to visit nearby are Playa Cala Aiguablava, Platja de Fornells, Platja de Fornells, and Sa Tuna.

How to get there : There are no direct trains from Begur, so it’s best to drive from Barcelona. The journey takes approximately an hour and a half via the AP-7. If you don’t want to drive, you can catch a train from Barcelona to Flaca and take a 30-minute taxi from there.

8. Costa Brava Coastline

The title of Spain’s most beautiful beach holiday hotspot belongs to the Costa Brava. From unspoiled coves to coastal hiking paths, visitors can appreciate everything the area has to offer. Quiet fishing villages and whitewashed towns clinging to the coast are all part of the draw of Spain’s rugged coast.

Calella de Palafrugell and L’Escala are adored for their golden stretches of sandy shores. While the sleepy hilltop village of Pals has maintained its medieval charm. Those looking for a secluded escape will love Llafranc, and Roses are famed for its sunsets thanks to its west-facing position. 

How to get there : You can travel to Costa Brava by train or bus. Larger towns are connected by the railway line between Barcelona and the French border. Smaller villages are usually reached by bus or taxi from one of the larger train stations along the Costa Brava coast. The most convenient way is by car or joining a group tour on a day trip .

9. Tossa de Mar

Curving around a protected headland, Tossa de Mar is one of the most beautiful ancient towns on the Costa Brava. Surrounded by defensive medieval fortifications, the picturesque Old Town has held onto its allure despite modern expansions of the town.

From golden beaches to crystal-clear coves, Tossa de Mar is perfect for beachgoers of every kind. Outdoor enthusiasts will also enjoy hiking the Camí de Ronda, while culture lovers can make the most of the only fortified medieval town that still remains intact on the Catalan Coastline. With seven towers, a lighthouse, and a maze of cobblestone streets, there’s more than enough to fill your day.

How to get there : There are no direct trains from Barcelona to Tossa de Mar. This small group tour is one of the best options for free time and seeing the area. For public transport: take the commuter train Line R1, towards Blanes and continue to Tossa de Mar by bus or taxi. There are departures to Blanes from Barcelona Sants Station, Plaça de Catalunya, Arc de Triomf, and El Clot-Aragó.

10. Cadaques

A whitewashed village on a rocky outcrop in easternmost Catalonia, Cadaques is unequivocally beautiful. Pebbled beaches and pretty laneways add to the aesthetic appeal of this seaside hamlet. A handsome harbor and brilliant-blue waters all add to the essence that makes Cadaques the sought-after destination it has become.

A magnet for celebrities, the limited accessibility combined with unrivaled beauty make this pocket of Catalonia a sought-after hotspot. Surrealist artist Salvador Dali previously frequented the town. Since then a string of famous artists, musicians, and celebrities have followed, from Henri Matisse and Picasso to Mick Jagger and Shakira.

How to get there : The best way to reach Cadaques from Barcelona is by car. The drive takes a little over two hours via the AP-7. If you would prefer to travel by public transport, take a train to Figueres and then a bus or taxi the rest of the way to Cadaques.

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Ps — are you booking a trip soon use my booking checklist.

These are the sites I use most to book my own trips. Using the links below is a great way to support Bon Traveler’s travel journalism at no extra cost to you . If you need help organizing your itinerary, get my free travel itinerary template here .

1. Book Your Flights

Use Skyscanner to find the best flights. It searches 100s of airlines and websites across the globe to ensure you’re not missing out on any route options or deals.

2. Book Your Accommodations

Use Booking.com for hotels and guest houses. They have the biggest inventory and consistently offer the best rates.

3. Book Your Tours & Experiences

Use Viator or Get Your Guide to find the best tours and experiences. They are my favorite tour search engines. I always check both as their inventory varies depending on the destination.

4. Book Your Car

Use Discover Cars or Rentalcars.com to find the best car rental deals. I recommend comparing rental agency reviews on Google to ensure you are booking with the best company in that destination, as the reviews are often more accurate than the car rental search engines.

5. Don’t Forget Airport Lounge Access

Get a Priority Pass membership to gain access to 1,400+ VIP lounges and airport experiences worldwide. The Priority Pass app is the first thing I check when I have a layover. I’ve been a member for over a decade, and having a comfortable place to relax before and between flights makes air travel so much more enjoyable.

6. Don’t Forget Travel Insurance

I never leave the country without travel insurance. It provides comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong (ie. illness, injury, theft, and cancelations, etc.). I use it frequently for my travels to stay protected.

My favorite companies that offer the best coverage and rates are:

• World Nomads (best for all-around)
• Safety Wing (best for frequent travelers)

Xx, Jessica

Related Posts

The Ultimate Travel Guide to Fornalutx, Mallorca

The 17 Best Luxury Hotels in Mallorca (2024)

Costa Brava, Spain: Best Things to Do 2024

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19 Best Day Trips from Barcelona (+ How to Get There!)

Bustling and beautiful, Barcelona is one of Spain’s top city breaks for good reason–but if you want your trip to Catalonia to extend outside the region’s capital, there is a dizzying array of options for incredible day trips from Barcelona!

From beach towns to a memorable monastery to a very exciting day trip that leaves Spain entirely (!), there are excellent Barcelona day trip options for all kinds of travelers.

Barcelona itself is so full of activities it is easy to never leave the city–but the surrounding areas are worth a trip.

Here are the best day trips from Barcelona, Spain, curated by an ex-pat who has lived there for years!

Note : This Barcelona day trips guide was written for Our Escape Clause by Natalie Collins, a British ex-pat who has made her home in Barcelona. Thanks for joining us, Natalie!

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

Quick Decision: An Epic & Easy Day Trip from Barcelona

Want to take an epic day trip from Barcelona, but don’t want to overthink it or sort through almost 20 options?

If so, this day tour to Montserrat and the Penedes wine region is a fantastic choice!

This wildly popular tour visits both Montserrat (easily the most coveted day trip from Barcelona) and includes a local wine tasting and a traditional lunch with its full-day option.

In the morning, your guide will collect you from central Barcelona and take you to Montserrat where you will be able to tour the monastery and enjoy the beautiful surrounding mountains.

From there you are taken to a local winery to discover the famous Penedes wine region (one of the top wine regions in Spain) and enjoy a traditional Catalan lunch!

If you’re hoping to get a taste of Catalonia outside of Barcelona in a day, you can’t go wrong with this day trip!

Book your day trip to Montserrat + the Penedes wine region today!

How to Get From Barcelona to These Day Trip Destinations

Essentially, there are 3 main ways to take day trips from Barcelona: book a tour, rent a car and drive, or take public transportation (usually via train, and sometimes bus).

Depending on the day trip in question, there might be a clear winner in how to get there… or it may be down to your travel style!

We detail the best options for getting to each of these places near Barcelona below.

For train tickets, we recommend booking through Omio , which is a very useful search aggregate for train travel (and bus travel) that works similarly to a search engine for rental cars.

If you’d like to drive, we recommend searching for your rental car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to sift through all your options and choose the right car for you based on price, the reputation of the company that is renting it, and the terms of the rental contract.

And finally, for guided day trips, we’re fond of Get Your Guide and have linked well-reviewed tour options throughout this guide to Barcelona day trips where relevant.

The Top Day Trips from Barcelona, Spain

If you’re looking for the most iconic day trips from Barcelona, this section is for you!

Some of these trips are easier with a guided tour, but for most of the destinations in this section, they are easy to get to using public transport and can be done independently.

Even if you only have a few days in Barcelona , you’ll probably want to pull yourself away to enjoy one of these!

Probably the most popular day trip from Barcelona, whether visited independently or as part of an organized day trip , is the iconic Montserrat and Montserrat Monastery.

Montserrat itself is a mountain range named for the Catalan word ‘serrated’ due to the mountains looking like the edge of a serrated knife.

As you travel through the region you will see this mountain range from most places. 

The mountain range is home to Santa Maria de Montserrat Monastery and a site of religious pilgrimage.

The monastery has one of the few black Madonnas in Europe, which was said to be discovered in the 11th century when the earliest parts of the monastery were built. 

Explore the monastery and hike the mountains to discover hovels that were once home to reclusive monks!

How to Get to Montserrat from Barcelona

To travel to Montserrat from Barcelona by train, take the R5 train to Aeri de Montserrat.

From there, either take the cable car or use the Montserrat Rack Railway to cross the mountaintops and see the amazing views. 

If you’d rather not worry about transportation, consider booking a day tour from Barcelona that combines a monastery tour and an optional add-on for lunch with wine.

Book your day trip to Montserrat today!

This cute seaside town just 30 minutes outside the city is a great day trip from Barcelona.

For a tiny town there is a lot to do, browse independent boutiques, enjoy delicious food, and drink wine at the beachside.

Foodies will love sampling local foods and wines on this tour through the historic center.

Sitges is also home to the Cau Ferrat Museum, a collection of modernist artwork curated by the artist Santiago Rusiñol, as well as the Museu Maricel and Palau Maricel.

Both museums are an insight into the artistic heritage of Sitges.

Also worth a visit is the cemetery, which is a wonderful example of the history that has passed through Sitges.

How to Get to Sitges from Barcelona

The R2 train from central Barcelona gets you to Sitges along a pretty seaside rail route.

You can also spot Montserrat in the distance as you leave the city.

Sant Sadurní d’Anoia

As the heart of the cava wineries in the Penedes, the town of Sant Sadurní d’Anoia is a fantastic escape for Spanish wine buffs (or just wine appreciators).

From the train station, you can find several cava wineries to tour and sample their vintages right onsite.

The town itself also has a museum of cava, CIC Fassina, which offers an interactive tour of the history of cava in the region as well as its production methods. 

How to Get to Sant Sadurní d’Anoia from Barcelona

There is a train direct from central Barcelona straight to the town.

From there most places, are within walking distance, making this one of the easiest day trips from Barcelona!

Another small coastal town to visit from Barcelona is the charming and art-focused Cadaques.

This rocky hillside town is home to hidden coves and a historic center that highlights the artistic past of the town.

Salvador Dalí had a house here which is now a museum, and Cadaques was also popular with Picasso and many other artists. 

Spend a day exploring the beaches and coves or immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Cadaques.

Catalonia’s International Music Festival is also held here each year!

How to Get to Cadaques from Barcelona

This day trip is best done either by renting a car for the day or booking a tour that includes Cadaques .

In a pinch, you can take a train to Figueres and then a bus or taxi from there but it is long and not the most economical.

Shop rental cars or book your day trip featuring Cadaques today!

Cool Barcelona Day Trips to Small Towns

Penedes wineries & villages.

The Penedes wine region is home to lots of lovely towns–and of course, wineries!

While it’s often combined with other stops, the Penedes wine region makes for a wonderful standalone day trip from Barcelona.

Explore Vilafranca del Penedes and the surrounding smaller towns and villages based around the wine production in the area.

This area primarily produces cava and white wine, and there are lots of wineries to explore alongside the cute towns they are home of.

Take the Rutas del Vino, a planned route across the region and one of the first four to be given the distinction from the Spanish wine industry.

Booking a guided day trip is an excellent way to make sure you enjoy a variety of tastings, explore some vineyards, and stay safe doing so!

How to Get to the Penedes from Barcelona

Pretty much as soon as you leave the city you are in the Penedes, north west takes you to Vilafranca del Penedes which is a great place to start exploring the region.

A guided tour like this is a wonderful option, especially if no one in your group wants to volunteer as the designated driver.

If you have non-drinkers in your group and would rather drive, renting a car is also an option.

Book your wine-focused day trip from Barcelona today!

The tiny town of Begur is memorable to visit, and unlike some of these Barcelona day trip ideas, it’s ideally experienced in the off-season!

In the summer there are around 40,000 visitors, so for the best of this pretty hillside town avoid the summer.

Set on a hillside with unspoiled beaches, the whitewashed buildings of Begur date back to the Muslim period in Spain and are a joy to spend a day wandering through them.

The castle on top of the hill is medieval and also worth a visit.

How to Get to Begur from Barcelona

This is a route better to drive, you can reach the town in under 2 hours.

A train or bus would take over 3 hours and a few changes so make use of that rental car!

Book your rental car in Barcelona today!

This inland town dates back to the Middle Ages when the La Garrotxa region was an independent county and Besalu was its capital.

Today, it remains one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Catalonia. 

Be sure to check out the Sant Pere church from 1022, as well as the 7th-century bath house.

Pick up an audio tour from the Tourism Office for a cool narration of interesting historical facts about this ancient town!

How to Get to Besalu from Barcelona

Besalu is another day trip option that is best to drive to!

The town is tucked away past Girona so public transport is limited, but a car will take you there in under 2 hours.

Interesting Cities for Day Tours from Barcelona

Barcelona may be one of the world’s most iconic cities, but isn’t the only city in Catalonia worth visiting!

Here are some other great cities you can visit on a day trip from Barcelona!

If you are a Game of Thrones fan Girona was the site of many locations for the series due to the iconic ancient architecture in the city.

The Jewish Quarter is the best preserved in Europe and is a great place to explore the small streets and hidden ancient buildings.

The Cathedral, the old city walls, and the Arab baths dating from the 13th century also rank among the best things to see in Girona.

How to Get to Girona from Barcelona

You can take a train to Girona easily, and there is also a reliable bus service between the cities.

Driving will take you a little over an hour.

Alternatively, if you want to expand your day trip, this popular day trip to Girona and Costa Brava can help you see both Girona and the coast without stress!

Book your day trip to Girona and Costa Brava today!

Boasting some of the best Roman remains in Spain, Tarragona is one of the best day trip ideas close to Barcelona for history buffs!

Visit the Roman amphitheater, step inside Tarragona’s memorable archaeological museum, and walk the city’s Roman walls.

Stop for sunset at the Mediterranean Balcony overlooking the sea at the bottom of La Rambla.

If you want to be sure you don’t miss any of the hidden treasures around the city, this self-guided tour can be a fun way to structure your day.

How to Get to Tarragona from Barcelona

It takes a bit over an hour to get to Tarragona from Barcelona by train , and the route travels along the coast for a very picturesque journey.

Alternatively, you can also drive to Tarragona in about the same time frame.

Shop train tickets to Tarragona today!

As the birthplace of Salvador Dali, this pretty town does not disappoint the heritage of the legendary artist.

With picturesque streets and plenty of eateries, a day trip to Figueres is worth adding to the list.

You can book an organized day trip from Barcelona which also includes a tour of the Dali Museum, or go on your own steam.

How to Get to Figueres from Barcelona

This popular guided day trip picks you up in the city and takes you to Figueres and Girona, while in Figueres you tour Dali’s theatre museum.

If you’d rather explore independently, it takes about an hour to travel from Barcelona to Figueres by train .

Book your Dali-themed day trip to Figueres today!

Another historical spot in Catalonia is Vic, around an hour away from Barcelona.

This small city is known for its gastronomy and has some of the best cured meats in the region (very high praise in Spain!).

There is also a Roman temple which was reconstructed when it was discovered in the 18th century.

When visiting Vic, be sure to explore the little shops off the main plaza and to sample local delicacies of cured meat.

It is also a popular place to take a hot air balloon ride , which is an incredible way to start the day!

How to Get to Vic from Barcelona

You can read Vic from Barcelona in about an hour by train .

Alternatively, driving or taking the bus is a bit quicker, coming in at under an hour each way.

Laid-Back Beach Towns Near Barcelona

Barcelona is well known for being one of the best European cities with beaches –but you will find the absolute best beaches in Catalonia by leaving the city and exploring the Costa Brava.

The Costa Brava stretches north of Barcelona and is packed with stretches of pristine beaches, Roman ruins perched on cliff tops, and beautiful towns, often with really great restaurants to spend the day relaxing and eating!

Here are the best Costa Brava day trips from Barcelona!

Multi-Stop Costa Brava Day Trip

Want to see as much as possible on your Costa Brava day trip?

While we’ll outline some specific Spanish beach towns below (and they’re beautiful!), the Costa Brava is less of a destination itself and more of a journey.

It stretches from around Blanes right up to the border of France, so there are a lot of places along the way.

The best way to explore is by car so you are not limited on when and where you can stop.

If you don’t want to drive, this well-reviewed guided tour is a perfect way to sample a few spots along the coastline and enjoy a lunch by the water!

Book your Costa Brava day trip or rental car to drive yourself today!

Tossa de Mar

Known as the most beautiful town in Spain, Tossa de Mar has long been cherished by artists and tourists alike for its gorgeous views and picture-perfect location.

It is also known as the blue paradise due to the clear waters across the beaches.

The town dates back to the 13th century and is very well preserved, and still feels slightly off the beaten path despite being well-trodden by tourists (especially as compared to Barcelona).

This well-reviewed day trip featuring not only Tossa de Mar but kayaking and snorkeling along the coast is the perfect way to combine culture and outdoor adventure into one of the best day trips from Barcelona!

(If you’re visiting outside of swimming season, this hiking trip might be more your speed).

How to Get to Tossa de Mar from Barcelona

In addition to being gorgeous, Tossa de Mar is easy to visit for the day from Barcelona by either train or car.

Traveling by train takes under 2 hours while traveling by car comes in at under 1.5 hours each way.

Premia de Mar

For a shorter beach day trip out of Barcelona, head to Premia de Mar.

Located in the area known as Maresme, Premia de Mar has a stylish marina, excellent restaurants, and long clear beaches.

If you are looking for a beach day outside of the city without going too far this is the place to aim for!

How to Get to Premia de Mar from Barcelona

Driving takes under half an hour, whereas the train takes around 50 minutes.

If you do opt for the train, though, it does stop at lots of pretty seaside towns along the way.

Calella de Palafrugell

If you are looking to sample only one spot on the Costa Brava, then Calella de Palafrugell is the place to go.

It retains plenty of local charm, a friendly atmosphere, and excellent eateries throughout the town.

As the town sits on the edge of a cliff, the views across the Mediterranean are lovely.

The beach is also deservedly popular and well worth spending some time on when soaking up the sunshine!

How to Get to Calella de Palafrugell from Barcelona

The only sensible way to take a day trip to Calella de Palafrugell is to drive, it takes around an hour and a half.

You can take public transport, but it will take you most of the day as you have to go via Girona.

More of the Best Day Trips From Barcelona

Looking for inspiration on a few other cool places to visit from Barcelona?

…. and maybe even hop over into a totally different country?

These are some great ‘extras’ worth visiting on short getaways from Barcelona!

Barcelona’s main international day trip option, you will need to cross borders to reach the small Principality of Andorra!

Tucked in between the Pyrenees mountains, Andorra is a great place to visit for a change of scenery, tax-free shopping, and skiing.

The old quarter in the capital of Andorra la Vella is great to explore and browse independent boutiques. 

Andorra is also the only country that has the sole official language of Catalan.

French is also widely spoken here, as well as Spanish. 

How to Get to Andorra from Barcelona

There are buses but they can be lengthy for a day trip!

If you want to visit Andorra independently, it’s best to drive from Barcelona in around 2 and a half hours.

If you just want to get a taste of Andorra while enjoying a bit of France as well, this well-reviewed 3 countries in one day trip is a fun option as well!

Book your day trip from Barcelona to Andorra today!

Priorat Wine Region

Similar to the Penedes, this Catalonian wine region is scattered with pretty small towns and many wineries open for tours and samples.

The difference here is that it is set against a backdrop of sheer mountains, popular with rock climbers.

The vineyards roll across steep hills, the unique landscape makes the wines particularly special.

Red wine is produced in this area and is really incredible. 

How to Get to Priorat from Barcelona

Head south towards Tarragona, then head up into the mountains for the stunning wine region.

You can get to Tarragona by train but from there you will need to drive, so better use your rental car the whole way.

Shop rental cars for your Barcelona day trips today!

Siurana 

The crown of the Priorat is this mountain top tiny village pictured in the above photo, which is home to just a handful of buildings and one very picturesque church.

There isn’t a lot to do here other than hike and enjoy local cuisine and wine but it is an unbeatable spot for watching the sunset!

How to Get to Siurana from Barcelona

This is one of the Barcelona day trips that absolutely requires a drive.

Be prepared for winding mountain roads and sheer drops, but the payoff is worth it in the end. 

Book a rental car for your day trips from Barcelona today!

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The Best Places to Visit in France

By Monica Mendal

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The best places to visit in France shouldn’t only be consigned to Paris and the French Riviera . Sure, there’s nothing quite like watching the Eiffel Tower twinkle at night or reveling in the glamour of summer on the Côte d’Azur, but there’s much more to France than the traditional tourist path. So, where to begin? From 10 major wine regions sweeping the country, to its variety of diverse coastlines stretching from the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, to a vast mountain range that shares its borders with Switzerland and Italy, there’s plenty to explore in France year-round.

If you’re crunched for time, there are tons of day trips from Paris reachable by train if you want a change of scenery without venturing too far. Can’t get enough of French cuisine? Then how about visiting the gastronomic capital of France. (Spoiler alert: it isn’t Paris.) And if the French Riviera is out of your price range come high summer, consider exploring the country’s alternative coastlines—of which there are many.

Below, we’ve rounded up some of the best places to visit in France.

Take a Day Trip From Paris

The most popular day trip from Paris is a visit to King Louis XIV’s Palace of Versailles , a mere 45-minute train ride from the city center via the RER C metro line. The palatial estate is spread across over 2,000 acres, composed of the palace, gardens, park, Estate of Trianon, and stables. In 2021, French hotel company Airelles opened Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle in the heart of the palace grounds, with regal interiors inspired by Marie Antoinette’s Versailles estate, Petit Trianon. Here, guests can live out their own royal fantasies while benefiting from exclusive access and tailor-made experiences on the property. While Mont-Saint Michel follows Versailles as the third most visited monument in France (the first being the Eiffel Tower), there are plenty of other places to visit in Normandy as a day trip. A 50-minute train from Paris will land you in Giverny, the small village where Claude Monet famously lived and produced his illustrious water lily series. Travelers can visit his former home and gardens, which are open from late March to early November. Meanwhile, if you’re looking for a seaside escape from Paris, you don’t have to travel all the way to the south of France. Normandy’s Côte Fleurie, often referred to as the Parisian Riviera, is a popular resort destination among Parisians—particularly Deauville and Trouville, which are a two-hour train ride from Paris.

Stay here: If you decide to turn your day trip into an overnight, Airelles Château de Versailles, Le Grand Contrôle is the ultimate stay in Versailles, while Domaine de Primard , a bucolic stay situated in an 18th-century chateau, is located a mere 30 minutes from Claude Monet’s home.

Dine Your Way Through the Bouchons of Lyon

By Daniel Rodgers

By Georgia Day

By Alexis Bennett Parker

Lyon is known as the undisputed gastronomic capital of France. Unsurprisingly, it was women who earned this title for the capital city of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, specifically the Mères Lyonnaises, or mothers of Lyon. Typically women of humble origins, they left their homes after the French Revolution in search of work, landing themselves in the homes of Lyon’s bourgeois families, where they used local, inexpensive ingredients to prepare simple and delicious meals; many believe it to be their impact that helped define and shape French cuisine as we know it today. When they were released from their jobs during the economic crisis of 1929, many of these women decided to open their own restaurants, known today as bouchons, referring to homey, casual eateries serving affordable and hearty fare. Today, Lyon is still littered with its historic bouchons —in fact, there are more restaurants per head than in any other in France. Try traditional Lyonnaise dishes like the quenelles at Cafe Comptoir Abel, chef Joseph Viola’s award-winning pâté en croûte at Daniel et Denise Créqui, the tête de veau at Café des Fédérations, and everything else at La Meunière, Brasserie Georges, and Chez Georges.

Stay here: Situated in a former convent, Villa Florentine is located in the heart of Old Lyon, a stone’s throw away from the best restaurants in the city. In the warmer months, take a dip in the rooftop pool featuring panoramic views of the city.

Ski the French Alps

France is blessed by such a surfeit of the world’s top ski resorts that it’s almost impossible to decide where to go. Les Trois Vallées is among the most popular ski regions in France, connecting multiple resorts through its interlinked valleys accessible using a single ski pass. Apart from skiing, the upper-crust love Courchevel for its abundance of five-star resorts (the most in France after Paris), magnum rosé-filled lobster lunches, and high-end luxury boutiques—some of which, like Moncler, are even located sur piste. If it’s refined subtly you’re going for in Les Trois Vallées, Meribel is the ideal option not only for its optimal location and famous slopes, like La Face, which was created for the 1992 Winter Olympics, but for its friendly-friendly atmosphere and bounty of ski-in ski-out chalets and hotels, including the beloved Hôtel Le Coucou , helmed by the same owners as Provence’s Crillon Le Brave and Paris’s buzzy new Le Grand Mazarin. Head to Chamonix at the base of Mont Blanc, often primed with fresh powder, to tick skiing the world’s longest ski run, the Vallée Blanche, off your bucket list. For a less advanced resort (or if it’s not the skiing alone that entices you), the nearby Megève will feed your appetite for a romantic sojourn in a charming alpine village with cobbled streets littered with high-end restaurants and chic stays. Val d’Isère is quickly becoming the French Alps’ latest hot spot with a flurry of buzzy openings, from Airelles Val d’Isère and the upcoming Experimental Chalet Val d’Isère signaling a new awakening.

Stay here: The Pierre Yovanovitch-designed stay Hôtel Le Coucou is a stylish ski-in ski-out hotel with excellent dining options, from a traditional Savoyard restaurant to its beloved Beefbar. Airelles Val d’Isère is another ski-in ski-out hotel, host to its own assortment of critically acclaimed dining establishments, from Loulou to Nobu Matsuhisa’s Matsuhisa. The historic Grand Hôtel Soleil d’Or , recently acquired by the hotel group behind Mallorca’s Cap Rocat and Christian Louboutin’s hotel in Melides, Portugal, is a romantic alpine retreat with just 18 rooms and three adjoining chalets and home to La Chocolaterie, Megève village’s beloved social hub.

Explore the Central and Northern Wine Regions

You can find wine production in nearly every corner of France, but it’s always worth visiting the regions located within close proximity to Paris—from Champagne and Alsace in the north, to Loire Valley and Burgundy in central France. In Champagne, Reims and Épernay would be the best base to explore the five regions. If you’re inclined to visit one of the big names, Ruinart in Reims offers the most organized experiences, from cellar tours to tastings to custom-designed brunch, lunch, or dinner experiences on-site. For a more intimate experience near Épernay, head to the family estate of Billecart-Salmon , where visitors are made to feel like they’re a part of the family with tastings held in the estate’s dining room. Ahead of the Olympics, Uber will also be introducing a new travel product in the champagne region, which will be announced next month. Much like its wines, the Loire Valley provides the most variety. With the Loire Valley’s vast wine regions spanning the Muscadet region on the western coast, all the way to the Sancerre region in the central north, there’s more to enjoy here than just wine. From charming medieval villages, to its lush ethereal gardens—the grounds of the Château de Villandry are among the most famous—to fairytale castles, like the iconic Château de Chambord, Loire Valley maintains the perfect balance for a well-rounded holiday in wine country. It’s also worth exploring Burgundy, with a jaunt in its capital city Dijon, known for its mustard, or explore the German and Swiss-bordered Alsace region, with visits to both its capital city of Strasbourg and the charming old town of Colmar.

Stay here : In the Loire Valley, you can’t go wrong with a pastoral stay at the iconic Les Sources de Cheverny or if you prefer something less traditional, check out Château de la Haute Borde , known for its seasonal artist residencies. For an immersive stay in Champagne, the beautiful 12-room Château de Sacy sits in a charming village in the heart of the vineyards.

Sip Your Way Through Bordeaux

While the lesser-known wine regions in the south of France, such as the Rhône Valley and the Languedoc, are certainly not to be missed by wine aficionados, your introduction to French wine should undoubtedly begin with Bordeaux. Spend a night or two in the city of Bordeaux itself before heading to the countryside, and take a stroll through the vibrant Chartrons neighborhood or enjoy dinner at Au Bistrot. The type of experience you’ll have in Bordeaux’s wine country is characterized by which side of the Dordogne River you’re on. The right bank, which you can read about here , is distinguished by its shorter distances, hilly terrain, and famous medieval villages, while the left bank is formed by the Médoc, land that stretches all the way from the city of Bordeaux to the coast. The Médoc is famous for its palatial wine estates—many of which are open by appointment for tours and tastings. These wine castles, as they’re appropriately monikered, not only produce some of the finest wines in France, but are destinations in themselves—from some of the oldest and most historic, like Chateau d’Arsac and Château Livran , to the women-owned Château Larrivaux , which has been run by women of the same family since 1580. Among the many reasons to visit the Médoc wine region is due, in part, to its proximity to the coast. After a week of wine tastings, spend a few days on the sandy beaches of Soulac-sur-Mer, a timeless seaside village whose simplicity and belle époque nostalgia lend it a feeling of laid-back glamour.

Stay here: On Bordeaux’s left bank, stay at Maison d’Estournel , a refined country house set on the vineyards of its adjoining wine estate Cos d’Estournel . On the right bank, Logis de la Cadène puts you right at the center of the iconic Saint-Émilion wine village, and its Michelin-starred restaurant is among the most popular in the region.

Take a Scenic Drive Through Provence

Plan some tastings ahead of your (ideally, late spring or early summer) visit to Provence at Château La Mascaronne or Château Gassier —after all, Provence is the land of rosé. When your rosé-tinted glasses have worn off, however, it’s time to hit the road, and there’s no better way to discover Provence’s surfeit of charming hilltop villages set against the backdrop of its sweeping fields of lavender, vines, and sunflower fields, than from a vintage car with the top down. Rent a car with Provence Classics , beginning your road trip in the Luberon, where you can pick up some local market produce and souvenirs from the hilltop village of Gordes, then drive past the lavender fields at Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque on your way to stroll through the red cliffside village of Roussillon. From there, begin your journey to Avignon, stopping through Provence’s antique capital, L’Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, for some antique shopping at notable shops, like 50 Cinquante and Bernard Durand . Arriving at Avignon, visit the Palais des Papes and the Jardin des Domes or meander through the city’s labyrinth of cafés and shops, before following the Van Gogh route from Saint-Rémy-de-Provence to Arles. For a truly enchanting conclusion to your road trip, head 20 minutes south of Arles for a journey into the wilds: the Camargue, western Europe’s largest delta, featuring a wild landscape of lagoons, reeds, and salt marshes—a place where wild horses roam free and a colony of pink flamingos comes to nest in the warmer months. No, it’s not the rosé-tinted glasses you’re wearing—this place is real .

Stay here: The elegant La Bastide de Gordes will place you right in the center of the iconic hilltop village. You can alternatively opt for a stay at the charming La Bastide de Mourre nearby or in its sister property Domaine de Chalamon in Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. For an ultra-luxurious and romantic retreat, book a room at Crillon le Brave , located a short distance from the best antique shops in the region. In June, the much-anticipated Les Bains Gardians will open in the heart of Camargue National Park.

Hike the Calanques

After exploring the countryside of Provence, it’s time to hit the seaside. With its influx of trending hotel and restaurant openings, it’s no secret that the weird and wild Marseille has become a hotbed for the creative class in recent years. But before stylish crowds descended on the vibrant port city, its wild limestone cliffside extending between Marseille and Cassis, known as the Calanques, had always been its natural draw. The Calanques National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with many of its trails ending at secret coves and white sand beaches that are only reachable by foot or sea, like Calanque of Port-Miou, Calanque of Port-Pin, and Calanque of En-Vau. If you prefer to explore the calanques by sea, book a public or private charter aboard Le Don du Vent for a day of sailing and swimming.

Stay here: Optimally situated on a rocky shore in the fishing village of Les Goudes, Tuba Club is the perfect place to stay given it’s located at the gateway to the Calanques National Park. Book a room at the 5-star Hôtel Les Roches Blanches in the neighboring Cassis if you’re looking for a more elegant stay outside of the frenetic city center of Marseille.

Oyster Tasting in the Bay of Arcachon

Head southwest for a week of oyster tastings on the Bay of Arcachon. Base yourself in the chic seaside village of Cap Ferret, the southern tip of the Lege-Cap-Ferret peninsula, known as the oyster capital of France. A scenic seaside town characterized by its quaint fisherman villages and oyster farms, Cap Ferret has long been a chic holiday hamlet and a best-kept secret among the French for its abundance of beautiful beaches and al fresco seafood restaurants. Flanked by the Atlantic beaches primed for surf and the quieter beaches on the bay, lined with oyster shacks and framed by the famed Dune Du Pilat, the tallest sand dune in Europe, Cap Ferret is a unique summer destination for travelers seeking a more laid back alternative to the French Riviera. Don’t forget to grab a bike and explore the many picturesque fishing villages located deeper in the peninsula, from Le Canon to l’Herbe, or book a boat day with Des Hommes et Des Mers to explore it all by sea.

Stay here: Last summer the oldest hotel on the peninsula dating back to the 1970s, Hôtel des Dunes re-opened as a cool surf lodge of sorts, with each of its 13 rooms designed in the spirit of Cap Ferret’s oyster shacks, and located just across the street from Cap Ferret’s best surf beach. If you prefer to stay in Arcachon, the Philippe Starck-designed La Co(o)rniche is a five-star stay in the upmarket Pyla-Sur-Mer neighborhood, boasting panoramic views of the Dune du Pilat from its lively restaurant bar.

Surf the French Basque

Begin your road trip in the French Basque Country’s gateway city, Bayonne, where you can scoop up some of the famous Bayonne cured ham and chocolate before making your way to the coast. It’s no secret to surf enthusiasts everywhere that France’s southwest is world-renowned for its epic surf breaks—so much so that it’s been nicknamed the “French California.” Many of the best surf beaches can be found in the French Basque’s beloved seaside towns, like Biarritz , which has also experienced an advent of new hotels and restaurants as of late, making it an ideal base for your Basque holiday. In Biarritz, you’ll find beginner beaches, like Côte des Basques or La Grande Plage, and Le Miramar for more advanced surfers. Another charming and lesser-known town nearby is Guethary, a tiny village with a surplus of great local restaurants and sceney sunset bars for post-surf fun. Among the best surf beaches in Guethary include the reef break of Parlementia, which shares its border with Bidart, another beloved surf town, and the more isolated beach of Alcyons. Intermediate surfers can also head to the neighboring town of Saint Jean de Luz to ride out one of the French Basque’s rare point breaks at Lafitenia beach.

Stay here: Regina Experimental Biarritz opened just last summer and is optimally located across the street from La Grande Plage.

Scenic Swims in Corsica

With its close proximity to Italy, located just 10 nautical miles from beautiful Sardinia, international travelers often overlook Corsica altogether when considering their options for a summer holiday in France. Their oversight leaves the island spared from crowds—save for the French families who return each summer to bask in their unspoiled paradise on the Med. From natural pools to secret coves to white sand beaches, Corsica is known for its pristine turquoise coastline. Tourists tend to flock to the southern part of the island, famous for its white sand beaches, like Palombaggia (the first tobacco-free beach on Corsica), Campomoro, Cupabia, and Roccapina, as well as its scenic bays, such as Cala di Conca and Fazzio. As southern Corsica is more built up with tourist stays, the northern beaches remain slightly more wild and untouched; among the best beaches in northern Corsica include Ostriconi, Lotu, Saleccia, and Bodri. But Corsica’s pristine swimming spots aren’t consigned to the island’s dazzling coastline—many of the island’s best swims can be found inland, in the natural pools concealed among the island’s many hiking trails and cultural sites, from les Piscines naturelles de Cavu to the Vallée du Fango and Ponte Vecchiu, and those fed by waterfalls like Polischellu and Aïtone.

Stay here: Nestled on the Cap Corse peninsula in the northeast corner of the island, Hôtel Misincu is a chic eco-luxury retreat on a 54-acre estate with a restaurant, spa, and pool. In the south, stay at the beloved family-run U Capu Biancu , a waterfront property overlooking the bay of Sant’ Amanza.

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