One of our favorite things about Barcelona is its proximity to beautiful beaches, mountains and quaint little towns.
Catalonia is a diverse and unique region that offers something for everyone, so after checking out all the museums, beaches and bites in the center of Barcelona, why not head off to explore? There are so many popular day trips from Barcelona, so we’ve broken them down to help you choose the trip that’s right for you.
Girona
Just an hour and fifteen minute train ride from Barcelona, Girona is a charming escape for those who are looking for fascinating architecture and some of the best food in the world. The stunning cathedral offers a glimpse into the Catalan Gothic style and the Jewish quarter a truly unique tour of a long-extinct part of Spanish and Catalan history. Stroll along the river while losing yourself in the beauty of the Cases de l’Onyar, a line of brightly-painted homes that cheer up the riverside. If you plan your day trip from Barcelona very early, you may even be able to score a table at El Cellar de Can Roca, rated the best restaurant in the world in 2013 by The World’s 50 Best guide. We’ve been dying to try the out of this world cuisine of the Roca brothers but the waiting list is year-long, so be sure to book far in advance!
Tarragona
If a beachy day trip from Barcelona is more up your alley, Tarragona may be the place for you. Hop on the fast train from Barcelona and you arrive in the Roman port city in under 40 minutes, ready for a day of history, culture, sun and sand. Before you head to the beach, make sure to check out the Roman ruins including an amphitheater, coliseum and aqueduct. Like Girona, Tarragona is home to a beautiful Gothic cathedral that is well worth a visit, as well as the National Archaeological Museum for history buffs. After spending the morning exploring all the history and culture of the small city, head to the Balcon del Mediterraneo for amazing views of the sea before heading down to the beach to soak up the Spanish sunshine.
Figueres
Art buffs can’t miss out on a day trip to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí and home to a museum full of his work. Though this small city is a longer trek for a day trip from Barcelona, its proximity to the Costa Brava and abundance of great food and wine make the trip well worth it. Lose yourself in the magical works of Dalí, wander the old town streets and explore the enormous castle, in Figueres you won’t run out of eye candy. The region is home to some great gastronomy, so make time for long, luxurious meals at any of the little spots off the beaten path. To extend your day trip from Barcelona, pop over to one of the beach towns just 20 minutes away and enjoy the best of both worlds.
Sitges
One of the most popular day trips from Barcelona in the summer time is Sitges, and for good reason. This seaside city is chock-full of lively nightlife, great seafood and pristine beaches. Just 40 minutes from Barcelona by train, Sitges attracts people from all over looking for both a relaxed resort town and place to let loose. You can find whatever you’re looking for in Sitges whether that be a great, wild party or a quiet escape filled with great meals and crashing waves. As far as great bites in Sitges go, we recommend the famous xató, a dish made of cod, tuna, eggplant, anchovies, black olives and endive, but you really can’t go wrong with any of the fresh seafood in this Mediterranean town.
Explore two icons of Catalan heritage—the Montserrat Monastery and cava—in one perfectly planned day on our Montserrat & Cava Winery Tour: Day Trip from Barcelona with Lunch.
Girona is fabulous for food-lovers. I’ve never been to El Cellar de Can Roca, but I’m saving up! I was there for the Temps de Flors flower festival in May, and many of the restaurants had special menus for the festival, with a flower theme. I had amazing lunches for around 12-15 euros.
I haven’t found any good places to eat yet in Figueres, but it’s wonderful for Dali fans, and not far from Cadaques for harbourside fish restaurants.