The surroundings of Barcelona includes beautiful beaches, attractive fishing villages and charming medieval towns. In this part of Catalonia, just a short drive or train ride from Barcelona, tourists can escape to another world - either to the beach retreat or Sitges or to the legendary Montserrat monastery. You can spend weeks in Barcelona and always find new attractions, restaurants and bars to try. But the real tourist knows that the true Catalan sense of life can be found outside the metropolis.
Sitges
Just 35 km south of Barcelona is the city of Sitges, which we offer for adventurers who want to escape the noise of the big city. However, there are many beaches to choose from, so families can find the ideal place for them. Local cuisine - fish and seafood - is a must. From Plaça de Catalunya train station, it takes approximatively 40 minutes to get there.
Montseny Nature Park
Montseny Nature Park is the easiest access to the Montseny Mountains, making it a popular destination for many. The Catalan Pyrenees offer plenty of hiking opportunities, and the nature park is no exception. Although the Montseny Mountains are most accessible by car, hikers can easily get to the edge of the park, starting from Sant Martí de Centelles, via the city of Aiguafreda, where tourist maps are available. From Plaça de Catalunya train station, you can get there in around 1 hour.
Girona
The old town of Girona is home to ancient arcade houses, gigantic temples and sloping cobblestone streets. Until the eviction of the Jews in 1492, the city was the home of a vast Jewish community, which commemorates visitors to Girona Jewish Historical Museum. Another slice of history is the 12th-century's Arab bath, the Romanesque monastery and the cathedral. Take a stroll along the Onyar River, admire the colourfully painted houses, or stroll through the ancient castle walls, which offer beautiful views of the entire city. Another part of the city has great tapas bars. From Sants train station, it takes approximatively 1 hour to get there.
Besalú
The Catalan countryside has many settlements that have remained since the Roman Age or Middle Ages. While many of these can only be reached by car, you can still visit some of them by using the local bus services. One of the most well-known townships is Besalú, the most famous landmark of which is a stone bridge from the 12th century.
From C / Pau Claris 117 stops to the Teisa bus station, the trips last for around 1 hour and 40 minutes.
Vic
Vic is another important city with a long history. In addition to the Christian churches and the cathedral, the ancient Roman temple can be found there, not to mention the main square of the city. The tourist office is located in Catalonia's largest central area, surrounded by medieval, Baroque and Art Nouveau mansions. The city is famous for its weekend markets, as well as its gastronomy. It is almost obligatory to try the so-called marinated sausage called llonganissa de Vic.
From Plaça de Catalunya train station, you will take around 1 hour and 20 minutes to reach there.
Montserrat
When it comes to day trips, Montserrat is a must-see destination. The most sacred place in Catalonia is a monastery where the statue of the Black Virgin, La Moreneta, is preserved. However, Montserrat is not only famous for it. The view is beautiful, and if you are lucky, you can listen to the chorus of the monastery. Walk around the narrow streets, descend to Santa Cova Cave, or climb to the top of Sant Jeroni, where you have a magnificent view of the whole valley. From Espanya Train Station, it takes approximatively one hour to get there.
Figueres
In Figueres, the hometown of Dalí, you will find Art Nouveau buildings, an 18th-century castle, a toy museum and a Dalí museum. The former theatre was shaped by Dalí into a surrealistic palace characterised by red walls and large eggs on the roof. In the museum, you can admire drawings, paintings, sculptures and the jewellery designed by the artist.
From Sants train station, it takes approximatively 50 minutes to get there.
Tarragona
The city of Tarragona is a popular destination in itself, famous for its Roman remains. Since the Museu d'Historia de Tarragona is the busiest in the morning, it is best to start the day with the Amfiteatre Romà and the province of Fòrum or visit the excellent National Archaeological Museum in Tarragona, which provides a useful overview of the city's Roman history. It is also worth seeing the cathedral. Dine in one of the nearby restaurants or the El Serrallo fishing district. From Sants train station, it takes approximatively 40 minutes to get there.
Vilafranca del Penedès
Discover the city of Vilafranca del Penedès, the heart of Catalan cava production. While the city itself is home to numerous 12th and 13th-century monuments - including the Santa Maria Gothic Church and the Sant Francesc Monastery - a visit to the area would not be complete without looking at one of the vineyards. Wineries often collect tourists in the city, and there are several taxi companies to complete the short journey. From Plaça de Catalunya train station, you can get there in around 1 hour.
Castellfollit de la Roca
Another delightful rural village, which is fortunately accessible by local bus. Located on top of the rocks, Castelfollit de la Roca is located in the La Garota volcanic area in a conservation area. It is one of the smallest villages in Catalonia, less than a square kilometre. The area is home to several restaurants where guests can discover the region's specialities in a traditional setting.
From C / Pau Claris 117 stops to the Teisa bus station, it takes approximatively 1 hour 50 minutes to get there.
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