7 Best Day Trips from Barcelona – Beautiful Towns near Barcelona

Barcelona is a mesmerizing city with modernist architecture, vibrant culture, and Mediterranean charm. But beyond the city’s Gaudí masterpieces and bustling La Rambla lies a treasure trove of scenic towns, historic sites, and natural wonders. With a Barcelona visit, you can also take these day trips from Barcelona to explore the new side of Catalonia that often gets overshadowed by the city’s urban allure.

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Day Trips from Barcelona – Beautiful Towns near Barcelona – Attractions near Barcelona, Spain

Whether you’re chasing the waves along Costa Brava, walking Roman ruins, sipping cava in vineyard towns, or exploring medieval villages, here are the best places to visit near Barcelona or some of the beautiful towns near Barcelona for a day, or even overnight.

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Montserrat – The Sacred Mountain Retreat

Montserrat is not just a mountain but a spiritual symbol for Catalonia. Its jagged peaks rise dramatically from the landscape, creating a surreal skyline. At the summit, the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey houses the revered Black Madonna, drawing pilgrims and travelers alike.

Distance & Route – Montserrat is just 60 km (about 1 hour) northwest of Barcelona. You can take a train from Plaça Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat and then ride the rack railway or cable car.

Things to do:

• Ride the cable car up the mountain for breathtaking views,
• Visit the monastery,
• Listen to the boys’ choir, and
• Hike scenic trails like the path to Sant Jeroni—the highest peak of Montserrat.

Overnight stay – If you wish to stay overnight, book a room at Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat, a charming hotel beside the monastery with panoramic mountain views.

• Tour to Book – Montserrat Monastery Tour with Wine Tasting & Lunch
• Useful tip – Go early to avoid crowds, and wear comfortable shoes if you plan to hike.

Sitges – A Sunny Coastal Getaway

One of the most beautiful towns near Barcelona, Sitges, blends seaside relaxation with art, history, and vibrant energy. Its bohemian spirit, whitewashed streets, and golden beaches make it a favorite for locals and tourists.

Distance & Route – Sitges is only 40 km (about 40 minutes) south of Barcelona. Direct trains run frequently from Estació de Sants and Passeig de Gràcia.

Things to do:

• Stroll along the Passeig Marítim,
• Explore the Museu Cau Ferrat,
• Sunbathe on Platja de Sant Sebastià, or
• Sip cocktails at a beachfront chiringuito.

Overnight stay – Hotel Capri Sitges offers stylish comfort and is a short walk from the beach.

• Tour to Book – While Sitges is great to explore independently, consider a Sitges & Cava Winery Day Trip for a two-in-one experience.
• Useful tip – Visit in late February for the Sitges Carnival, or in October for the Sitges Film Festival, one of Europe’s most respected genre cinema festivals.

Girona – Medieval Magic and Game of Thrones Vibes

Girona delivers if you’re craving a place that feels like a movie set. Known for its preserved medieval architecture, it served as a filming location for Game of Thrones. But beyond that, it’s one of the best places to visit near Barcelona for history buffs and romantics alike.

Distance & Route – Girona is 100 km (about 40 minutes via high-speed train) northeast of Barcelona. Take a Renfe AVE from Barcelona Sants.

Things to do:

• Walk the medieval city walls,
• Visit the Girona Cathedral,
• Explore the Jewish Quarter, and
• Photograph the colorful houses lining the Onyar River.

Overnight stay – Hotel Nord 1901 Superior offers beautiful interiors and a peaceful courtyard with a small pool in the Old Town.

Tour to Book – Girona Game of Thrones Tour + History Walk

Useful tip – Don’t miss the Arab Baths and the viewpoint from the Cathedral steps—especially gorgeous at sunset.

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Tarragona – Roman Ruins by the Sea

Tarragona is one of the most underrated attractions near Barcelona. It was once the Roman capital of Hispania, and its well-preserved ruins are UNESCO-listed. Combine history with beach vibes in this coastal town.

Distance & Route – Tarragona is 100 km (about 1 hour) southwest of Barcelona. Take a direct train from Sants station.

Things to do:

• Explore the Roman amphitheater facing the Mediterranean,
• Walk along the ancient walls,
• Visit the National Archaeological Museum, and
• Relax at Platja del Miracle.

Overnight stay – Hotel Pigal is a cozy boutique option in the heart of Tarragona and within walking distance of the major sights.

• Tour to Book – Book a Roman Tarragona & Wine Tour to blend history with local wine tasting.
• Useful tip – Download a Roman Tarragona audio guide or map to bring the ruins to life.

Costa Brava – Cliffs, Coves, and Crystal Waters

The Costa Brava is synonymous with dramatic cliffs, turquoise coves, and charming fishing villages. It’s one of the most scenic day trips from Barcelona, especially during warmer months.

Distance & Route – Costa Brava spans a large region, but towns like Tossa de Mar are about 85 km (1.5 hours) northeast of Barcelona. Best reached by car or guided tour.

Things to do:

• Relax on the beaches of Calella de Palafrugell,
• Hike the coastal Camí de Ronda trail,
• Explore the town of Tossa de Mar, and
• Dive into the surreal world of Salvador Dalí in Cadaqués or Figueres.

Overnight stay – Hotel Diana in Tossa de Mar is a gorgeous art-nouveau hotel with sea views.

• Tour to Book – Costa Brava Small Group Day Tour from Barcelona
• Useful tip – Bring swimwear, sunscreen, and hiking shoes. The coastal trails and hidden beaches are unforgettable.

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Vic – A Catalan Gem with Local Flavor

Vic is often overlooked but is among the most authentic short trips from Barcelona. Known for its lively market, rich Catalan culture, and historic core, it’s ideal for a low-key yet immersive experience.

Distance & Route – Vic is 70 km (about 1.5 hours) north of Barcelona by train.

Things to do:

• Browse the Plaça Major market (Tuesdays and Saturdays),
• Visit the Roman Temple of Vic,
• Admire the 18th-century cathedral.

Overnight stay – Stay at Les Clarisses Boutique Hotel, a renovated convent with a contemporary twist.

Tour to Book – Take a Vic and Pyrenees small group tour to explore more remote natural surroundings as well.

Useful tip – Come early on market day for the freshest produce and local snacks.

Colònia Güell – Gaudí’s Hidden Treasure

While many visit Park Güell, few know about Colònia Güell—a workers’ village showcasing another of Gaudí’s masterpieces: the Crypt of Colònia Güell. This lesser-known site is perfect if you’re looking for peaceful attractions near Barcelona that blend architecture with history.

Distance & Route – Colònia Güell is just 20 km (about 25 minutes) from Barcelona. Take the FGC S3 or S8 line from Plaça Espanya to Colònia Güell.

Things to do:

• Tour the crypt,
• Wander through the planned industrial village, and
• Learn about Gaudí’s architectural experimentation.

Overnight stay – While most people do a day trip, book Hotel El Castell in Sant Boi, a scenic hilltop hotel with garden views if you want to stay nearby.

Tour to Book – Book a Gaudí’s Crypt Guided Tour for deeper insights.

Useful tip – Tickets to the crypt include a self-guided audio tour—bring headphones for a smoother experience.

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Barcelona is an extraordinary city, but its surroundings are equally compelling. From mountain-top monasteries to Roman ruins, sun-kissed beaches to medieval towns, these day trips from Barcelona unlock the diversity and depth of Catalonia. Many of these beautiful towns near Barcelona can be reached by train, making them ideal for spontaneous getaways.

Pro Tips – Short Trips from Barcelona

• Use Renfe and FGC trains for comfortable and reliable travel. Many towns are under two hours away.
• Book popular tours in advance, especially in peak season.
• Rent a car if you want flexibility for exploring remote Costa Brava beaches or mountain villages.
• Travel light on day trips—leave heavy bags at your hotel in Barcelona.
• Check local festivals like Tarragona’s Santa Tecla or Girona’s Flower Festival for cultural immersion.

Ready to explore beyond the city limits? Barcelona is just the beginning.

Whether you’re seeking history, relaxation, food, or just a change of pace, these places to visit near Barcelona give you actual Catalan experiences.

If you have more time in Spain, you can extend your visit to stay overnight in a few of these towns. Spending a night in Girona’s Old Quarter or by the sea in Tossa de Mar is quite a relaxing experience.

No matter which direction you choose—north toward the Pyrenees, south along the coast, or inland into medieval villages—Catalonia’s landscape will reward you. These short trips from Barcelona are not just add-ons but essential to experiencing the region in its fullest sense.

Picture Courtesy – CanvaPro

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