Best Day Trips from Barcelona:
Top 10 Places to Visit in 2025
From beaches to mountains – Barcelona’s best day trips revealed.
By Liam Mulligan | Published on June 8, 2025 |Modified on July 4, 2025
Barcelona is often the gateway to Spain for many people. For me, it was the first major Spanish city I visited back in 2004, and I’ve returned seven times since. While the city is packed with iconic sights (see my full Barcelona travel guides), it’s also the perfect base for exploring more of Catalonia. So, what are the best day trips from Barcelona?
In this blog post, I’ll share my top 10 day trips from Barcelona, based on years of personal experience. From medieval towns and Roman ruins to golden beaches, dramatic mountains and nature escapes, there’s something here for every type of traveller.
Keep reading to discover the best day trip from Barcelona for you.
Why Go Beyond Barcelona?
Barcelona is one of the most fascinating cities in the world, vibrant, historic, and packed with things to see and do. You could easily spend weeks exploring its iconic architecture, buzzing neighbourhoods, and world-class cuisine and still find new surprises.
But if you stay only within the city limits, you miss out on the incredible richness of the wider Catalonia region.
Step outside Barcelona, and you’ll discover a more authentic, less touristy side of Spain. Catalonia’s diverse landscapes, from rugged mountains and medieval villages to sun-soaked beaches and Roman ruins, offer a perfect complement to the city’s urban energy.
Exploring beyond Barcelona not only enriches your travel experience but also supports the local communities and helps preserve Catalonia’s unique heritage. So, whether you’re craving history, nature, food, or relaxation, the best day trips from Barcelona will open your eyes to a Catalonia waiting to be discovered.
Looking for an expert Barcelona itinerary. Check out my post on two days in Barcelona for a whistle-stop tour of the Catalan capital.
Short on Time?
Short on time? Here is a brief rundown of the best day trips from Barcelona.
- Best for Nature: Montserrat, Costa Brava, Matagalls & Pedrafoca
- Best for History & Heritage: Girona, Tarragona & Vic
- Best for Art & Culture: Figueres & Cadaqués
- Best for Wine / Gastronomy: Penedès Wine Region
- Best for Beaches & Coastal Vibes: Sitges
1. Girona – Medieval City & Gourmet Gems
Best for: History lovers, photographers & Game of Thrones fans.
Just over an hour from Barcelona, Girona is one of Catalonia’s most photogenic cities, where medieval charm meets colourful riverfront views. I visited for the first time in 2024 and was blown away by its beauty – it really is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain. I loved it that much, I’m returning again in August 2025.
Its cobbled streets, ancient Roman walls, and pastel-toned houses along the Onyar River make it feel like a fairytale come to life. Less crowded than the Catalan capital but just as rich in culture, Girona offers a more relaxed, authentic taste of the region.
You can walk the city’s centuries-old walls for sweeping views, explore the majestic Girona Cathedral (which famously stood in for the Great Sept of Baelor in Game of Thrones) and get lost in the winding alleys of the Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of the best preserved in Europe. Every twist and turn reveals hidden courtyards, independent shops, and atmospheric Catalan cafés that make Girona a truly enchanting day trip from Barcelona.
Top Things to Do in Girona
- Cross the red Eiffel Bridge
- Walk the Passeig de la Muralla (city walls)
- Visit the Arab Baths
- Be amazed by Girona Cathedral
- Try vegan artisan gelato at Madonna Gelats (trust me – it’s incredible!)
Looking for an itinerary for Girona? Check out my one day in Girona itinerary for the perfect day in the Catalan city.
How to get to Girona from Barcelona
Girona is super accessible from Barcelona. The fastest AVE train from Barcelona Sants takes just 38 minutes. Those on a budget may want to take the slower regional trains which take around 1 hour 20 minutes.
Tour Recommendations
From Barcelona: Girona, Game of Thrones Tour: Want to visit Girona with ease? This day tour includes round-trip transport and a local guide who’ll walk you through the filming locations of Game of Thrones and Girona’s medieval highlights. Perfect if you prefer everything taken care of.
Girona: Game of Thrones Small Group Tour: Already in Girona or coming by train? This small group tour focuses on Game of Thrones filming spots and local legends, all with a knowledgeable guide. Great if you want a more flexible, immersive experience.
Pro Tip – Walk the city walls (Passeig de la Muralla) early in the morning or at golden hour for the best light and crowd-free photos of Girona’s skyline and hills beyond.
2. Sitges – Beaches, Art & Gourmet Gems
Best for: Beaches, nightlife & LGBTQ+ travellers.
Just 30 minutes south of Barcelona by train, Sitges is one of my favourite resort towns in the world, and easily one of the best day trips from Barcelona. With a liberal, welcoming vibe, it’s popular with both families and LGBTQ+ travellers, offering a mix of laid-back beach life and vibrant nightlife.
Sitges boasts 17 beautiful beaches, each with its own personality, from quiet coves to buzzy, social stretches. The soft golden sand and clear Mediterranean waters make it a dreamy spot for sunbathing or swimming. By day, it’s a charming coastal town with whitewashed streets and boutique shops; by night, it transforms into a lively hub of bars, clubs, and beachfront parties.
But there’s more to Sitges than just sand and sangria. The town has a rich cultural side, with Modernist architecture, art galleries, and museums like Cau Ferrat and Maricel. Foodies will also love it here, Nem Sitges is one of my favourite restaurants and one I go to every time I visit (tip: book ahead so you don’t miss out!).
If you’re deciding on where to go beyond the city, Sitges is one of the easiest and most rewarding Barcelona day trips, especially if you want sea views, great food, and a bit of fun.
Find out why Sitges is one of Spain’s top places for LGBTQ+ travellers in my post ‘Is Spain Gay Friendly?’
Top Things to Do in Sitges
- Relax on one of Sitges’ 17 beaches
- Experience the legendary LGBTQ+ nightlife
- Eat at local restaurants
- Stroll the Old Town & Promenade
- Visit the Cau Ferrat Museum
How to get to Sitges from Barcelona
Sitges is super easy to reach from Barcelona, making it a perfect beachside escape. The fastest and most convenient option is the local train, which takes just 30–40 minutes from Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia, or Estació de França. Trains run frequently throughout the day.
On a tighter budget? No problem — the train is already very affordable, with tickets costing around €4–€5 one way.
From the airport, you can take the Bus Garraf, which has direct connections between the two and takes around 25 minutes. The second option is the train. Take the R2N line to El Prat de Llobregat and then transfer to the R2S line heading towards Vilanova I La Geltrú around 45 minutes. Tickets cost €8.30 for a single on the bus and around €5 for the train.
Tour Recommendations
Sitges: Sailing & Sunset in Sitges: Want a truly magical experience in Sitges? This sailing at sunset tour takes you out into the sea to see the sunset whilst sipping cava. A real luxury end to the day!
Pro Tip – Visit during the Sitges Film Festival (October) or Carnival (February) for one-of-a-kind celebrations, but book accommodation early as the town fills up fast.
3. Tarragona – Roman Ruins & Beach
Best for: Roman ruins, UNESCO history & family-friendly beaches
Just over an hour from Barcelona by train, Tarragona is a hidden gem on the Costa Daurada that blends golden beaches with some of Spain’s best-preserved Roman ruins. With sunshine, sea views, and historic treasures, it’s a strong contender for the best day trip from Barcelona.
At the city’s heart is the Tarragona Amphitheatre, dramatically perched above the Mediterranean and once host to gladiator battles. Nearby, discover the Roman Circus, the ancient city walls, and the Tarragona Cathedral, a Romanesque-Gothic masterpiece with sweeping views from its bell tower.
Wander the cobbled lanes of the Part Alta (Old Town), where tapas bars, boutiques, and hidden courtyards invite slow exploration. Families will appreciate the relaxed vibe and long seaside promenade, perfect for cooling off after a day of history.
Did you know Tarragona is one of the oldest cities in Spain? Discover 11 more in my post on Spain’s oldest settlements.
Top Things to Do in Tarragona
- Discover the Roman Amphitheatre by the sea
- Walk along the Roman walls and forum
- Visit Tarragona Cathedral and its cloister
- Relax at Platja del Miracle beachfront
- Explore El Serrallo fishing quarter for seafood
How to get to Tarragona from Barcelona
Regular trains run from Barcelona Sants, Passeig de Gràcia and Estació de França, taking around an hour for the regional services and around 30 minutes for the fastest high-speed trains. Tickets cost around €6 one way when booked in advance.
Tour Recommendations
From Barcelona: Tarragona & Sitges Full Day Tour: Fancy seeing ticking both Sitges and Tarragona off your Spain travel bucket list? This full-day tour provides return transfers, stopping at both Sitges and Tarragona. Combine Roman ruins and beach time for the perfect day trip from Barcelona.
Pro Tip – Buy the Tarragona Roman Pass for discounted entry into key Roman sites like the amphitheatre, circus, and forum. It’s cheaper than individual tickets and saves time.
4. Montserrat – Mountain & Monastery
Best for: Scenic hikes, monastery visits & spiritual escapes
If you’re after natural beauty, cultural significance, and an easy day trip from Barcelona, Montserrat ticks all the boxes. This stunning mountain range is just over an hour away and offers a total change of scenery – jagged peaks, serene hiking trails, and a famous monastery clinging to the cliffs.
The main attraction is the Santa Maria de Montserrat Monastery, home to the revered Black Madonna (La Moreneta) and a centuries-old boys’ choir that still performs daily. Even if you’re not religious, the mountaintop basilica and spiritual energy of the site are undeniably moving.
For panoramic views, take the funicular railway or hike to the Sant Jeroni summit, the highest point in Montserrat. The scenery is spectacular, with bizarre rock formations, peaceful forest paths, and vistas that stretch to the Pyrenees on a clear day.
Montserrat is also home to a small museum with works by Dalí, Picasso, and Caravaggio, and a farmers’ market where you can try local cheeses and honey. Whether you’re a hiker, a culture lover, or just need a peaceful escape from the city buzz, Montserrat makes for one of the best day trips from Barcelona.
Montserrat pairs amazingly well with a few days in Barcelona but confused about how long to spend in the city? Check out my post how many days in Barcelona for my top advice
Top Things to Do in Montserrat
- Visit Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey and see the Black Madonna
- Take the cable car or rack railway for panoramic mountain views
- Hike to Sant Jeroni summit for stunning vistas
- Attend the Escolania boys’ choir performance around 1 pm
- Explore the Montserrat Museum with art by Caravaggio, Picasso, Dalí
How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona
Montserrat is surprisingly easy to get to from Barcelona. Most travellers take the hourly train from Barcelona’s Plaça Espanya station to Montserrat-Aeri or Monistrol de Montserrat stations, depending on how you want to ascend the mountain.
- By train + cable car:
Take the R5 train to Montserrat-Aeri (about 1 hour), then hop on the Aeri de Montserrat cable car for a dramatic ride up to the monastery. It’s ideal if you want jaw-dropping views and a bit of thrill. - By train + rack railway (Cremallera):
Take the R5 train to Monistrol de Montserrat, then switch to the Cremallera rack railway, which winds its way slowly up through the mountains. A little longer, but great if you prefer a more scenic, grounded ride.
Tour Recommendations
From Barcelona: Half-Day Montserrat Experience: Want to go directly to Montserrat without worrying about public transport? Book this half-day tour complete with a tour guide and transfers for a hassle-free trip to Montserrat.
Montserrat Museum and Monastery Entry Ticket: Want to make your own way there? I recommend booking this Montserrat Museum and Monastery tour in advance so you don’t miss out.
Pro Tip – Take the cable car (Aeri de Montserrat) one way and return via the rack railway (Cremallera) — it gives you two scenic experiences and avoids waiting in long lines both directions.
5. Tossa de Mar – Medieval & Sea
Best for: Beaches, castles, medieval town walls & seaside hiking
Tossa de Mar is a postcard-perfect seaside escape just 90 minutes north of Barcelona. With its blend of medieval history, turquoise coves, and laid-back vibe, it’s one of the best day trips from Barcelona if you’re after both relaxation and beauty.
The star attraction here is the Vila Vella, the only remaining fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast. Wander the cobbled streets, climb the ancient walls, and soak up panoramic views of the rugged coastline. It’s pure storybook charm — with the sea just steps away.
Tossa’s main beach, Platja Gran, is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, while smaller coves like Cala Pola and Cala Giverola offer quieter, more scenic alternatives. Bring a towel and snorkel if you can — the water is some of the clearest you’ll find near Barcelona.
Top Things to Do in Tossa de Mar
- Explore the Vila Vella (Old Town) – the only remaining medieval walled town on the Catalan coast.
- Visit Tossa de Mar Castle and Lighthouse for panoramic sea views.
- Swim or sunbathe at Platja Gran – a beautiful main beach with a dramatic backdrop.
- Take a coastal hike along the Camí de Ronda, with stunning Mediterranean views.
- Tour the Municipal Museum inside the old castle, which includes works by Marc Chagall
How to get to Tossa de Mar from Barcelona
Tossa de Mar is fairly easy to reach from Barcelona, making it a perfect day trip destination. The most common option is by direct bus from Barcelona Nord bus station. Buses run several times daily and the journey takes about 1 hour 40 minutes.
Driving via the C-32 and GI-682 takes around 1 hour 20 minutes, and you have the flexibility to visit other towns and hidden coves in the area. You can also get the train to Blanes and transfer to a bus, but the direct bus is a better option.
Tour Recommendations
From Barcelona: Tossa de Mar Day Tour with Beach Time: Don’t bother with public transport and purchase this full-day tour from Barcelona by coach. There is an optional 45-minute guided tour of the city and 6 hours of free time to explore solo.
Pro Tip – Try simfònia de peix. This fish stew is a local favourite and provides an authentic taste of Tossa de Mar
6. Cadaqués – Surreal Scenery & Dali’s Legacy
Best for: Coastal beauty, whitewashed buildings & Dalí’s house-museum
Cadaqués is a stunning coastal village that stole my heart when I visited back in 2006. Nestled on the northeastern tip of Catalonia near the French border, it’s famous for its whitewashed houses, winding cobbled streets, and deep artistic heritage.
This charming fishing town was home to Salvador Dalí for many years, and his presence still lingers in the surreal beauty of the landscape and local museums. Visit the Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat, where the artist lived and worked, for a fascinating glimpse into his life and creative genius.
Cadaqués’s seaside promenade offers breathtaking views of the Mediterranean, with plenty of cafés and seafood restaurants to relax in after exploring. The tranquil coves and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for swimming and kayaking.
Just over two hours from Barcelona, Cadaqués is a little off the beaten path but well worth the trip for those seeking a mix of art, culture, and natural beauty, a truly magical day trip from Barcelona.
Top Things to Do in Cadaqués
- Visit the Salvador Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat
- Stroll the whitewashed streets and explore local art galleries
- Swim or sunbathe at Platja Gran and nearby hidden coves
- Hike or drive through Cap de Creus Natural Park
- Dine on fresh seafood at a seafront restaurant with views of the bay
How to get to Cadaqués from Barcelona
Sadly, getting to Cadaqués is not as easy as some other destinations on this list, but it is more than worth the effort. Driving is the easiest and quickest way. It takes around 2 hours and 15 minutes via the C-32 and N-260 roads. You can also take the bus from Barcelona Nord station to Figueres, which is around 2 hours. The journey to Cadaqués takes a further 40 minutes.
Tour Recommendations
Barcelona: Dalí Museum, House and Cadaqués Guided Tour: Cadaqués can be a little tricky to get to from Barcelona, but fear not! This day tour, direct from Barcelona, lets you follow in Dalí’s footsteps. With Figueres, Cadaqués and the famous Pubol Castle all part of the tour, it’s a great option for entering Dalí’s surreal world.
Pro Tip – Stay overnight if you can – most tourists come as a day trip, so you’ll get peaceful sunset and sunrise views in this whitewashed coastal gem.
7. Penedès Wine & Cava – Vineyards & Tastings
Best for: Wine and cava tasting, vineyard tours & rural relaxation
Just a short drive or train ride from Barcelona, the Penedès region is one of Spain’s premier wine-producing areas, famed especially for its sparkling Cava wines. If you’re a wine lover or simply want to escape the city for rolling vineyards and charming villages, Penedès is an ideal day trip from Barcelona.
The region’s picturesque landscape is dotted with family-run wineries, modernist wine estates, and historic cellars where you can enjoy guided tours and tastings. Highlights include visiting the Freixenet or Codorníu wineries to learn about the traditional Cava-making process and sample some of the best bubbly in Spain.
Beyond wine, Penedès offers beautiful countryside perfect for hiking or cycling, plus quaint towns like Vilafranca del Penedès with its medieval architecture and lively market squares. The relaxed pace and stunning views make it a perfect contrast to Barcelona’s urban buzz.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine-lover or a casual traveller looking for a scenic, flavourful day trip, Penedès is a top choice just outside Barcelona.
Top Things to Do in Penedès
- Visit estates on the Penedès Wine Route and sample Cava
- Snap a selfie at Miravinya viewpoints
- Discover wine heritage at VINSEUM Museum in Vilafranca
- Explore castles, Romanesque sites, and countryside
- Drive or bike the Electric Wine Road, eco-friendly tour
How to get to Penedès from Barcelona
Getting to Penedès from Barcelona is straightforward and convenient, making it a popular day trip destination. By train, you can take the Renfe train from Barcelona Sants to Vilafranca del Penedès or Sant Sadurní d’Anoia. The journey takes around 40 to 50 minutes.
There are plenty of tours from Barcelona which are also a great option. Check out the section below for my top recommendations.
Tour Recommendations
Penedès: Discovery Tour with Cava Tasting: This wine tasting tour takes place at the Codorníu Winery. Here you can learn more about cava and the historic winery, finishing off with a short train ride and tastings of premium cava.
From Barcelona: 3 wineries with hotel pick-up and Lunch: Want to focus solely on the wine? This guided tour with pickup from Barcelona will take you to 3 different wineries and a traditional Spanish lunch is included.
Pro Tip – After your big-name tour, stop by a small family-run winery like Recaredo or Parés Baltà for a more intimate tasting — they often use organic methods and give you a deeper insight into traditional cava making.
8. Figueres – Dalí’s Surreal Wonderland
Best for: Salvador Dalí museum, surrealist art & cultural day trips
Figueres, about 1 hour 30 minutes from Barcelona by train, is a must-visit for art lovers and anyone fascinated by the surreal world of Salvador Dalí.
I visited back in 2006 and was completely captivated by the surrealism that fills the town, especially at the Dalí Theatre-Museum, the largest surrealist object in the world and Dalí’s final resting place. What’s not to love about a giant pink building adorned with giant golden eggs?!
Visiting the museum is like stepping into Dalí’s mind with its flamboyant architecture, bizarre sculptures, and an extensive collection of his paintings and installations. I am not a huge art buff, but the experience is unforgettable and offers insight into one of Spain’s most iconic artists.
Beyond the museum, Figueres has a charming old town with bustling squares, cafes, and local markets where you can relax after your art immersion. The town’s welcoming vibe and Dalí’s surreal influence make Figueres a fascinating day trip from Barcelona.
Top Things to Do in Penedès
- Tour the iconic Dalí Theatre‑Museum
- Visit Sant Ferran Castle, Catalonia’s largest fortress
- Stroll the historic centre and Plaça de l’Ajuntament
- Discover art by Dalí and local artists
- Browse museums like the Figueres Toy Museum
How to get to Penedès from Barcelona
The good news is that Figures is easily reachable from Barcelona making it a perfect day trip option. The fastest way is high-speed AVE or Avant train from Barcelona Sants to Figueres Vilafant. This journey takes around 55 minutes with slower, regional trains taking approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
Tour Recommendations
Figueres: Dalí Theatre-Museum Entry Ticket: Do not miss out on going to the Dalí Museum. If you’re planning on going to Figueres, get your tickets to the museum nice and early, as it is very popular!
Girona and Figueres Full-Day Tour with Hotel Pick Up: Fancy ticking two incredible day trips from Barcelona off your list in one day? This two-in-one tour with hotel pickup is incredible value, combining Figueres with the medieval city of Girona.
Pro Tip – Book tickets online in advance — the museum sells out quickly, especially in summer.
9. Vic – Medieval Markets, Architecture & Local Life
Best for: Traditional markets, Roman temple & local life
Vic, just over an hour from Barcelona by train or car, is a charming Catalan town famous for its rich history and vibrant traditional markets. I’ve always been drawn to its medieval architecture, lively squares, and especially the bustling Mercat de Vic, one of Catalonia’s oldest and most authentic markets, offering local produce, cheeses, and cured meats.
Wandering through Vic’s cobbled streets feels like stepping back in time, with highlights including the impressive Vic Cathedral and the surrounding Romanesque and Gothic buildings. The town’s relaxed pace and genuine Catalan culture make it a refreshing day trip away from Barcelona’s bustle.
Top Things to Do in Penedès
- Visit the medieval Plaça Major, especially on market days
- Explore Vic Cathedral and its Romanesque-Gothic cloister
- Wander cobbled streets and traditional Catalan architecture
- Shop or people‑watch at Mercat de Vic local market
- Enjoy local specialities like farcinada or coca de recapte
How to get to Penedès from Barcelona
Vic is another town that is easy to reach from Barcelona, making it a convenient day trip destination. The easiest way is by train, which runs regularly from Plaça Catalunya station. The journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes with scenic views of the Catalan countryside.
Tour Recommendations
From Barcelona: Besalú & Medieval Towns Tour w/ Hotel Pickup: Interested in seeing more of Catalonia’s medieval heritage? This multi-town trip takes you to Besalú, Vic, Sant Pau and Castellfollit de la Roca in one day. With a guide to explain the history of the area, it’s the perfect way to see some of Catalonia’s most stunning towns.
Pro Tip – Visit on Tuesday or Saturday for the local market and authentic Catalan atmosphere.
10. Matagalls – Active Mountain Escapes
Best for: Mountain hikes, nature escapes & adventure travel lovers
Matagalls, located in the Montseny Natural Park just over an hour from Barcelona, is a fantastic destination for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts. The mountain stands at 1,697 meters, offering spectacular panoramic views of Catalonia from its summit.
The hike to Matagalls is moderately challenging but rewarding, winding through lush forests, peaceful streams, and diverse wildlife. It’s a perfect escape from the city where you can immerse yourself in nature’s tranquillity. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a casual walker, Matagalls offers well-marked trails suitable for various fitness levels.
After reaching the summit, take time to enjoy the breathtaking vistas that stretch across the Pyrenees and the Mediterranean Sea on clear days. Matagalls is truly one of the best day trips from Barcelona for those wanting to reconnect with Catalonia’s natural beauty.
Top Things to Do in Penedès
- Hike to the summit of Matagalls (1,697m) for sweeping views over Montseny and even the Pyrenees.
- Start from Sant Marçal or Coll Formic, two popular access points for hikers.
- Enjoy peaceful forest trails through beech, oak, and pine groves.
- Visit the Sant Marçal Monastery ruins, steeped in history.
- Spot wildlife and local flora in this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
How to get to Penedès from Barcelona
Matagalls is one of the more difficult day trip destinations as it is out in the countryside. The easiest way is by hiring a car. From Barcelona take the C-17 highway towards Vic and then follow the signs to Montseny Natural Park. There is parking available near popular starting points such as Collformic or Sant Marçal.
Pro Tip – Start your hike early from Coll Formic — by midday clouds can obscure the best views.
FAQs
What’s the best day trip from Barcelona?
The best day trip from Barcelona depends on what you’re after. For a charming medieval town, Girona is unbeatable. Just under an hour away by train, it offers stunning ancient walls, colourful river views, and rich history.
If you’re craving sun and sea, Sitges is your go-to beach destination. Also about 30 minutes by train, Sitges boasts 17 beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors, including the LGBTQ+ community.
Whether you want history, beaches, nature, or culture, there’s a perfect day trip from Barcelona waiting for you.
What’s the most beautiful town near Barcelona?
The most beautiful town near Barcelona is often considered to be Sitges, with its charming Mediterranean beaches, colourful seafront promenade, and vibrant cultural scene. Its mix of historic architecture, relaxed vibe, and stunning coastline makes it a favourite for many visitors.
However, Girona is also a top contender, especially if you love medieval streets, ancient city walls, and picturesque river views. Girona’s fairytale charm and rich history give it a timeless beauty that captivates many travellers.
What three countries can you see in one day from Barcelona?
While you can’t literally see all three countries from a single spot in Barcelona, you can visit or experience parts of Spain, France, and Andorra in a day with well-planned day trips. Spain is where you start, of course, with Barcelona and nearby Catalan towns.
France is accessible via nearby border towns like Perpignan, about two hours away by car or train. Andorra, the tiny mountainous principality famous for hiking and shopping, is roughly a three-hour drive from Barcelona. So, while not visible simultaneously, you can explore highlights of all three countries within a day or two from Barcelona.
Which cities are close to Barcelona by train?
Barcelona is well connected by train to several beautiful and historic cities nearby, making it easy to enjoy day trips or short stays. Some of the closest cities by train include:
- Girona (about 38 minutes via high-speed AVE train): Famous for its medieval architecture and Game of Thrones filming locations.
- Sitges (around 30-40 minutes): A vibrant beach town known for its sandy shores and lively cultural scene.
- Tarragona (approximately 1 hour): Home to stunning Roman ruins and beautiful Mediterranean beaches.
- Figueres (about 1 hour 40 minutes): The birthplace of Salvador Dalí and home to the surreal Dalí Theatre-Museum.
- Vic (around 1 hour 15 minutes): Known for its historic old town and bustling markets.
These train connections make it simple to explore Catalonia beyond Barcelona, whether you’re after history, culture, or coastal charm.
How many days in Barcelona is enough?
3-4 days is the perfect time for a first visit. Barcelona has so many things to do that you want to prioritise the things you want to see rather than fit everything in. With 4 days you can spend 3 days in the city and explore one of these day trips on the other day. For more information on how many days in Barcelona is enough, check out my post ‘How Many Days in Barcelona’ for all my top advice.
What is the most scenic train ride from Barcelona?
The most scenic train ride from Barcelona is to Montserrat. In just over an hour, you’ll enjoy stunning mountain views and arrive at the famous monastery perched on dramatic cliffs. It’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and culture, making it a top day trip from Barcelona.
Final Thoughts: Best Day Trips from Barcelona
Barcelona offers endless excitement, but the real magic begins when you explore beyond the city limits. From medieval towns like Girona to sun–soaked beaches in Sitges and breathtaking mountains at Montserrat, Catalonia’s diverse landscapes promise unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re seeking history, culture, nature, or relaxation, there’s a perfect day trip waiting just a short journey away.
So, pack your bags and discover the best day trips from Barcelona to make your visit truly unforgettable!
About Me
My name is Liam and I’m the owner and author of ‘Travels Around Spain’. I have been obsessed with Spain ever since my first visit 35 years ago. I am on a mission to visit and discover every part of this beautiful country and share all my hints and tips with you all.
Read more about my journey by clicking here.
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