Barcelona is my favorite city in the world! A love story truly years in the making. My best friend’s father would spend months in Spain and tell me how there was so no where else like Barcelona. Much later after finishing Peace Corps, I decided to go to Spain. I set up a home base at an Airbnb in the El Ravel neighborhood with two of my friends from Florida. We were based on Barcelona for a total of 10 days and ventured out on day trips. I can easily say, this was the best trip of my life. While you could easily spend less time in Barcelona, it was amazing to to feel like a local. We visited our neighborhood tapas bar Colibri to hang out with our new bartender friends from France and Morocco and truly lived in the moment. There was always something delicious to eat, whimsical architecture to become entranced by, and beautiful people to meet. Every day was a gorgeous adventure that I will never forget. Need some inspiration for day trips in Barcelona? Check out my recommendations.
1. Visit a Costa Brava Beach
Skip the beaches of Barceloneta and hop on a train with your bocadillo and head north up the rugged coast of Spain through Catalonia to soak up the sun along the Mediterranean in picturesque towns along the way. I went to Blanes spent a relaxing day on the beach and exploring the old quarter.
2. Girona
A girl has no name, but enjoys the views. Channel your inner Arya Stark and wander the medieval streets of Girona. If you’re a Game of Thrones fan or not, this is an easy day trip and worth a visit.
3. Montserrat
Montserrat is about 30 miles from Barcelona and easily accessed by train, bus, or car. Take the funicular up to the monastery and hike around. Many people come to see Catalonia’s favored saint, Santa Maria Montserrat (“The Black Virgin”). This is a popular day trip for tourists and locals alike.
4. Cava Vineyards
We weren’t able to make it to the cava vineyards, my friends who lived in Barcelona did recommend this. Who doesn’t love a crisp glass of cava and a break from the city? Check out Culture Trip’s list of cava vineyards near Barcelona.
5. Sitges
Sitges is likely best known for its Film Festival and Carnival. There is something for everyone here, beaches, spas, boating, gastronomy, shopping…the list goes on. Between the cultural activities and the year round mild climate, Sitges is a must do.
These are but a few of some of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. If I had to choose one, I would probably choose going to Sitges. Have you gone on any other fun day trips from Barcelona in difference locales? I’m always interested in learning about new places to visit!