Barcelona is a city that has it all, from beautiful beaches to stunning architecture and delicious cuisine. However, if you are looking to explore beyond the city limits and experience more of Catalonia, there are plenty of exciting day trips that you can take by train. Here are some of the best day trips from Barcelona by train:
Montserrat
Located just an hour away from Barcelona, Montserrat is a stunning mountain range that is home to a Benedictine monastery. The train journey itself is an experience, as you wind your way up the mountain, enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Once you arrive, you can explore the monastery, hike to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views, and even sample some of the famous Montserrat liqueur.
In addition to exploring the monastery and hiking to the top of the mountain, you can also take a funicular up to the Santa Cova, a shrine that is said to be the site of a vision of the Virgin Mary. And don’t miss the Escolania de Montserrat, a boys’ choir that performs daily in the basilica.
Sitges
If you’re looking for a relaxing day at the beach, Sitges is the perfect destination. This charming coastal town is just a 40-minute train ride from Barcelona and is known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and picturesque old town. Spend the day sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the local cuisine, before catching the train back to Barcelona in time for dinner.
While Sitges is known for its beaches, it also offers a variety of cultural attractions. Take a stroll along the Passeig Maritim, a picturesque promenade that runs along the coast, or visit the Cau Ferrat Museum, which showcases the works of local artist Santiago Rusiñol. You can also tour the Bacardi Rum Distillery for a taste of the famous rum that originated in Cuba.
Girona
Girona is a historic city located about an hour from Barcelona by train. It is known for its beautiful medieval architecture, including the Cathedral of Girona, which dates back to the 11th century. The city is also home to several museums, art galleries, and excellent restaurants, making it a great destination for culture lovers and foodies alike.
In addition to visiting the Cathedral of Girona, be sure to explore the city’s Jewish Quarter, which dates back to the Middle Ages. You can also take a walk along the city’s medieval walls, or visit the Museu d’Art de Girona, which features works by Catalan artists from the Romanesque period to the present day.
Tarragona
Tarragona is a coastal city that is rich in history and culture. The city’s Roman ruins, including an amphitheater and aqueduct, are some of the best-preserved in Spain, and there are also several beautiful beaches and a charming old town to explore. The train journey from Barcelona takes just over an hour, making it an easy day trip.
Take a stroll along the Rambla Nova, a tree-lined promenade that leads to the Mediterranean Sea, or visit the Central Market for a taste of local cuisine and products.
Figueres
If you’re a fan of art and surrealism, Figueres is a must-visit destination. This small town is home to the Salvador Dali Museum, which houses a collection of the artist’s works, including some of his most famous pieces. The train journey from Barcelona takes around two hours, but it’s well worth it for the chance to experience one of Spain’s most unique museums.
There are other places to visit as well, such as the Castell de Sant Ferran, a fortress that dates back to the 18th century. The local cuisine is also worth sampling, with seafood dishes like suquet de peix and arròs negre.
Convenient and Scenic: The Benefits of Traveling to and from Barcelona by Train
Barcelona offers excellent connections to other major Spanish cities, as well as popular destinations in France, Italy, and beyond. With two major train stations, Barcelona Sants and Barcelona Estació de França, visitors have easy access to many destinations. Barcelona Sants is the main station serving long-distance trains from Madrid, Valencia, Seville and other Spanish cities. The station is also the main hub for the Spanish high-speed AVE trains that can reach speeds of up to 310 km/h (193 mph).
There are several types of trains to choose from when traveling from Barcelona, including the fast and comfortable AVE trains with spacious seats, air conditioning, and on-board dining services. They offer connections to many other Spanish cities and international destinations such as Paris and Lyon. The more affordable Regional Express trains stop at many small towns and villages along the way.
Aside from the convenience of train travel, one of the major benefits is the stunning scenery along the way. The Catalan countryside offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, verdant forests, and picturesque vineyards. Many day trips from Barcelona by train offer amazing views of the Catalan countryside, including the jagged peaks of Montserrat and the rocky coast of Tarragona. Traveling by train from Barcelona is an excellent way to discover the beauty and diversity of Spain’s landscapes and cultures.
With frequent departures and reasonable prices, it’s no wonder that train travel is a popular choice for day trips from Barcelona. Whether you’re interested in a beach day, experiencing Catalan culture, or exploring the art scene, there is something for everyone within easy reach of the city. So why not hop on a train and explore the best of Catalonia?