Tired of the hustle and bustle of city life? Are you looking for a quick escape from Barcelona and discover new sights, sounds and tastes? Look no further! In this article, we’ve rounded up the 10 best day trips from Barcelona in 2023, taking you to stunning beaches, charming medieval towns, stunning mountain vistas and everything in between.
Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, soaking up the culture or looking for great food, there’s something for every traveler on this list. So pack your bags and prepare for an unforgettable journey beyond city limits!
Intro: Best Day Trips from Barcelona in 2023
Spain is a famous travel destination for many reasons: its well-preserved stunning architecture and historic landmarks, Mediterranean vibe, delicious cuisine and welcoming culture.
Barcelona is the perfect example of Spanish excellence, offering all the above and more. As one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, Barcelona welcomes millions of tourists annually.
If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona in 2023, here’s what you can expect:
- Barcelona is a bustling city with plenty to see and do.
- Barcelona has something for everyone, from world-class museums and art galleries to beautiful parks and architecture. The town also has a vibrant nightlife with plenty of bars and clubs to keep you entertained until the early hours.
- Barcelona is a foodie’s paradise; the city has some of the best restaurants in Spain. Whether you’re looking for traditional Catalan cuisine or something more cosmopolitan, you’ll find it in Barcelona. Of course, no trip to Spain is complete without tasting some of the country’s famous wines!
- Thanks to its central location, Barcelona is the ideal base for exploring the different regions of Spain. From the Costa Brava beaches to Andorra mountains, there is plenty to see outside the city limits. Day trips are easy to organize, and there are plenty of public transport options.
So whether you’re looking for culture, food, wine or adventure,
Montserrat
Montserrat is a mountain range just outside Barcelona. The region is famous for its many hiking trails and the monastery of Montserrat, located on the highest peak of the mountain range.
Visitors can take a cable car or train to the monastery built in the 11th century. Inside is a museum with works by famous artists such as Dali and Picasso and a crypt where the remains of Saint Ignatius are buried.
There are many hiking trails to explore outside the monastery. A popular route is the Camí de les Aigues, where walkers pass through the forest and past waterfalls. For those looking for a more difficult hike, the Sant Jeroni trail climbs to 1,235 meters (4,051 feet).
Costa Brava
The Costa Brava is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. A short drive from the city, the Costa Brava has beautiful beaches, quaint villages and plenty of activities for visitors of all ages.
Whether you want to relax on the beach, explore charming towns or stroll through beautiful landscapes, the Costa Brava has something for everyone.
Figueres and the Dalí Museum
The Dalí Museum in Figueres is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. The museum houses Dali’s largest collection and is the artist’s final resting place.
Housed in a former theater, the museum features two floors of exhibits, as well as a cafe and gift shop.
The ground floor of the museum is dedicated to Dali’s early works, including his Cubist-influenced paintings. On the second floor are his later surrealist paintings and more famous works, such as “The Eternity of Memory” and “Soft Table”.
Girona
Girona is a beautiful medieval town just over an hour from Barcelona. The city has many historical sites, including Girona Cathedral, the Arab Baths and the Jewish Quarter.
There are also plenty of activities to keep you busy, like exploring the old city walls or visiting one of the many museums. If you are looking for a place to relax, you can walk in one of the parks or have a coffee in one of the many cafes.
Begur, Calella de Palafrugell and Tamariu
Spain is full of beautiful coastal towns, and Begur, Calella de Palafrugell, and Tamariu are three of the best. All three are just an hour’s drive from Barcelona, making them perfect day trips.
Begur is a small town with lots of character.
The medieval streets are full of shops, cafes and art galleries. Begur also has some of the best beaches in the region. Calella de Palafrugell is a charming fishing village that comes alive in summer.
There are plenty of seafood restaurants and bars and a bustling market on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Tamariu is a secluded seaside town that feels like another world away from Barcelona. Sandy beaches and clear waters make it the perfect place to relax.
Sitges and Tarragona
Although often overshadowed by its larger neighbor Barcelona, the coastal town of Sitges has plenty to offer tourists. A short train ride from town, Sitges is known for its Mediterranean vibe and beautiful beaches.
The city also has a number of museums and art galleries, making it a great place to spend a day exploring. Tarragona is another good option for a day trip from Barcelona.
This historic town on the Catalan coast has Roman ruins, medieval churches and a beautiful harbor. Visitors can also take the cable car to the top of Tibidabo mountain, overlooking the panoramic view of the city.
Parc Natural del Montseny
Barcelona is a beautiful city with lots to see and do, but sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle. If you’re looking for a day trip from Barcelona, look no further than Parc Natural del Montseny. Located about an hour’s drive from the city, this natural park is the perfect place to relax and spend time in nature.
The park offers many walking and cycling routes, picnic areas, and stunning views. Various wildlife can also be spotted, including deer, wild boar and rare birds. Whether you are looking to escape the city for a day or seek tranquility in nature, Parque Natural del Montseny will surely please you.
Castellfollit de la Roca
Castellfollit de la Roca is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. About an hour and a half from the city, the town sits on a basalt rock formation overlooking the Fluvià River.
Visitors can explore the narrow streets lined with traditional Catalan houses, visit the 12th-century church, or enjoy panoramic views of the area from the mirador (viewing platform). There are also several hiking trails in the nearby countryside.
Cadaqu
Cadaqués is a municipality in the province of Girona, Catalonia, Spain. The city is located on a small peninsula along the Costa Brava, about 100 kilometres (62 miles) northeast of Barcelona.
It’s a popular tourist destination known for its Mediterranean vibe and connections to artists, including Salvadore Dalí, who lived here from 1930 to 1982. Other notable residents include Pablo Picasso and Joan Miro.
