Barcelona’s unsurpassable place indicates experience is simply a train ride away! Dive into blue-green coves, hike volcanic peaks, or lose yourself in medieval villages– all on effortless field trip from Barcelona by train. No car? No issue!
Destination | Travel Time | Cost (Round Trip) | Highlights | Best For |
---|---|---|---|---|
Montserrat | 1h 15m | EUR22-25 | Mountain abbey, treking tracks, Black Madonna | Nature & spirituality |
Girona | 1h 20m | EUR15-20 | Medieval town, Video game of Thrones sites | History & photography |
Figueres | 1h 30m | EUR20-25 | Dalí Museum, surreal art experience | Art lovers |
Sitges | 40m | EUR8-12 | Beaches, nightlife, Modernist architecture | Beach day |
Tarragona | 1h | EUR10-15 | Roman ruins, seaside amphitheater | History + beach |
Lleida | 1h (AVE) | EUR25-35 | Pyrenees access, mountain cuisine | Adventure seekers |
Blanes | 1h 15m | EUR12-18 | Costa Brava beaches, botanical gardens | Relaxation |
Vic | 1h 30m | EUR15-20 | Authentic markets, medieval town | Local culture |
Sant Feliu de Guíxols | 2h (train+bus) | EUR18-25 | Coastal abbey, sea caves | Off-the-beaten-path |
Ripoll | 2h | EUR20-25 | Pyrenean entrance, historic monastery | Mountain culture |
Pro Tip: Book early morning trains to maximize your field trip time! Return tickets are often cheaper when purchased together.
1. Montserrat– The Sacred Mountain Adventure
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: EUR22-25 round trip (consisting of rack train)
Departure: Plaça Espanya train station
Montserrat stands as one of the most spectacular Barcelona outing, combining spiritual significance with breathtaking natural beauty. The journey begins with a routine train to Monistrol de Montserrat station, followed by the popular rack railway that climbs the remarkable range of mountains.
What makes Montserrat special:
- The impressive Benedictine abbey housing the Black Madonna
- Spectacular scenic views of the Catalan countryside
- Hiking trails through distinct rock developments
- The world-famous kids’ choir (Escolania)
The mountain train experience itself is memorable, using spectacular consider as you rise. Don’t miss the cable television car option for even more remarkable vistas of the Mediterranean landscape.
Stay Nearby: Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat offers mountain views and abbey gain access to. For the ultimate benefit and best rates, book your best mountain retreat on CuddlyNest and awaken to Montserrat’s wonderful sunrise!
2. Girona– Middle Ages Magic and Video Game of Thrones Popularity Travel Time: 1 hour 20 minutes Cost: EUR15-20 round trip Departure: Barcelona Sants station This charming middle ages town captivated the world as a Video game of Thrones filming place. Girona’s old town functions exceptionally protected medieval structures, winding cobblestone streets, and the popular coloured tenement houses shown in the Onyar River.
Girona’s highlights include:
- The spectacular Gothic Cathedral with its impressive nave
- The jewish quarter with its middle ages synagogue
- Ancient city walls offering scenic views
- The Arab Baths and their Romanesque architecture
Take a leisurely walk through the historical landmarks and find why this port city has actually turned into one of Spain’s the majority of photographed locations. The trains run regularly from main barcelona, making it best for a full day tour.
Stay Close-by: Hotel CMC Girona uses high-end in the heart of the middle ages quarter.
3. Figueres– Dalí’s Surreal Wonderland
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Cost: EUR20-25 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
Home to the remarkable Dalí Theatre Museum, Figueres offers an immersive journey into Salvador Dalí’s surreal world. This day trip showcases the artist’s final work of art– a museum he created as his own mausoleum.
Must-see attractions:
- The Dali Museum with its iconic egg-topped building
- Dalí’s tomb and individual artifacts
- Interactive surreal installations
- The neighboring Dalí Jewels exhibit
The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Dalí works, from his early developments to his final pieces. Prepare for about an hour travel time each way, leaving plenty of time to explore this artistic wonderland.
Stay Close-by: Hotel Empordà integrates modern-day comfort with Catalonian beauty.
4. Sitges– Coastal Glamour and Beach Bliss
Travel Time: 40 minutes
Expense: EUR8-12 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants station
This glamorous small coastal town along the Costa Brava provides pristine beaches, lively night life, and stunning modernist architecture. Sitges perfectly integrates relaxation with cultural richness, making it perfect for half day trip or full-day adventures.
Sitges attractions:
- Gorgeous sandy beaches ideal for swimming
- The Cau Ferrat Museum showcasing modernist art
- Lovely old town with narrow streets
- Outstanding restaurants serving fresh seafood
The quick train service makes Sitges quickly available, with trains departing often throughout the day. The town’s natural beauty and creative heritage produce a memorable Mediterranean experience.
Stay Close-by: Hotel Medium Romàntic offers beachfront luxury with modernist beauty.
5. Tarragona — Roman Splendour by the Sea Travel Time: 1 hour Cost: EUR10-15 round trip Departure: Barcelona Sants
This UNESCO World Heritage port city boasts some of Europe’s most impressive roman ruins. Ancient Tarraco was once the capital of Roman Hispania, and today’s Tarragona preserves this stunning heritage together with gorgeous Mediterranean beaches.
Roman treasures include:
- The amazing Roman Amphitheatre overlooking the sea
- Ancient city walls and towers
- The Roman Circus and Praetorium
- The art museum with comprehensive Roman collections
Integrate history with beach time– the mediterranean sea provides ideal relaxation after exploring ancient streets. The town hall offers excellent dining and shopping opportunities.
Stay Nearby: Hotel SB Express Tarragona supplies contemporary convenience near ancient wonders.
6. Lleida– Entrance to the Pyrenees
Travel Time: 1 hours 6 minutes through high speed train
Expense: EUR25-35 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
While further than other locations, Lleida provides access to stunning Pyrenean landscapes and functions as the region’s capital for mountain experiences. The high speed AVE trains make this journey surprisingly comfortable and beautiful.
Lleida highlights:
- La Seu Vella cathedral with scenic views
- Access to natural park areas in the Pyrenees
- Standard Catalonian mountain cuisine
- Historic middle ages castle ruins
This destination works best as a weekend journeys choice, enabling time to explore the surrounding range of mountains and experience genuine Catalonian culture far from tourist crowds.
Stay Nearby: Parador de Lleida integrates historical architecture with modern-day facilities.
Lobby, Parador de Lleida, Lleida 7. Blanes– Costa Brava
‘s Southern Gem Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: EUR12-18 big salami
Departure: Barcelona Sants
The southernmost town of the Costa Brava, Blanes provides spectacular beaches, arboretums, and traditional fishing village charm. This small coastal town provides the ideal escape from barcelona spain’s city energy.
Blanes tourist attractions:
- Marimurtra Botanical Garden with Mediterranean plants
- Sa Palomera rock formation dividing the beaches
- Fresh seafood markets and traditional dining establishments
- Exceptional strolling tour chances along coastal courses
The town maintains its authentic fishing village character while using contemporary amenities. Sea kayaking and water sports add adventure to your beach day.
Stay Close-by: Hotel Esplendid offers beachfront comfort with Costa Brava views. Experience seaside perfection with CuddlyNest’s handpicked beachside accommodations for your supreme seaside escape!
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8. Vic– Middle Ages Market Town Excellence
Travel Time: 1 hour thirty minutes
Expense: EUR15-20 big salami
Departure: Barcelona Sants
This authentic medieval town showcases conventional Catalonian life with its popular Saturday market, middle ages buildings, and maintained historic center. Vic uses a genuine look into Catalonia’s abundant cultural heritage.
Vic’s special functions:
- Weekly market featuring regional items and crafts
- Santa Maria cathedral with impressive murals
- Well-preserved midlifes architecture
- Traditional local stores and artisan workshops
Experience genuine Catalonian culture at your own rate while checking out narrow middle ages streets and tasting regional specializeds. The traveler office supplies outstanding assisted tour choices.
Stay Neighboring: Les Clarisses Hotel Store provides historical elegance in the heart of middle ages Catalonia.
9. Sant Feliu de Guíxols– Coastal Charm and Culture
Travel Time: No direct train so initially the train journey to Girona (1 hour 20 minutes) and after that from there a bus to Sant Feliu de Guíxols (50 minutes)
Cost: EUR18-25 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants to Girona, then local bus
This stunning seaside destination combines gorgeous beaches with abundant cultural heritage. The town includes a stunning monastery, outstanding dining establishments, and access to the Costa Brava’s the majority of lovely coves.
Highlights include:
- The Benedictine Monastery of Sant Feliu
- Beautiful sea caves available by boat
- Excellent wine tasting chances
- Lovely old town with traditional architecture
The journey requires a connection however rewards travelers with one of the Costa Brava’s a lot of genuine experiences. Public transport connections work well for day tour preparation.
Stay Nearby: Hotel ILUNION Caleta Park uses boutique charm steps from the Mediterranean.
10. Ripoll– Pyrenean Heritage and Natural Beauty
Travel Time: 2 hours
Cost: EUR20-25 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
Called the “Cradle of Catalonia,” Ripoll features the splendid Santa Maria abbey and serves as an entrance to Pyrenean experiences. This historical town offers natural appeal combined with significant cultural heritage.
Ripoll treasures:
- Santa Maria de Ripoll monastery with its popular portal
- Ethnographic Museum showcasing Pyrenean culture
- Access to treking tracks and natural park locations
- Standard mountain cuisine and regional stores
The town offers an outstanding base for exploring the french border area and experiencing standard Pyrenean culture. Consider this for weekend trips to totally value the location’s offerings.
Stay Close-by: Hotel Ripoll offers mountain comfort with cultural access.
Unlock Your Perfect Excursion Experience Barcelona’s prime area makes it the ultimate hub for unforgettable day trips by train– from sun-soaked beaches to medieval towns and mountain leaves. Skip the inconvenience of a vehicle and check out effortlessly!
Pro Tips for Train Travel:
Book tickets early in peak season (stations or online)
Many destinations are under 2 hours away
Small-group tours offer trouble-free assisted experiences
Whether you’re craving a half-day journey to Sitges or a full-day experience to Girona, these train journeys from Barcelona provide the best of Catalonia.
Prepared to check out? Schedule your ideal Barcelona stay on CuddlyNest for unique rates and central locations– so you’re always steps far from your next epic day trip by train!
Frequently Asked Questions For Excursion from Barcelona By Train
1. Are these day journeys ideal for families with young kids?
Yes! Montserrat, Sitges, and Blanes are especially family-friendly with simple strolls, beaches, and interesting sights. Load treats and examine train schedules for family discounts.
2. Can I use my Barcelona transportation pass for these journeys?
No– regional trains (Rodalies/RENFE) require different tickets. The T-Casual metro pass only covers city zones. Purchase round-trip tickets at stations or via Renfe’s app.
3. What’s the best field trip for preventing crowds?
Vic (market days excepted) and Ripoll offer genuine local experiences with less travelers. Visit mid-week for the quietest experience.
4. Should I schedule assisted trips or explore individually?
Independent travel is easy for Sitges/Tarragona. For Montserrat or Dalí’s museum, think about a small-group trip to avoid lines and get insights.
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