Barcelona’s unbeatable location means adventure is just a train ride away! Dive into turquoise coves, hike volcanic peaks, or lose yourself in medieval villages—all on effortless day trips from Barcelona by train. No car? No problem!
| Destination | Travel Time | Cost (Round Trip) | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montserrat | 1h 15m | €22-25 | Mountain abbey, hiking trails, Black Madonna | Nature & spirituality |
| Girona | 1h 20m | €15-20 | Medieval town, Game of Thrones sites | History & photography |
| Figueres | 1h 30m | €20-25 | Dalí Museum, surreal art experience | Art lovers |
| Sitges | 40m | €8-12 | Beaches, nightlife, Modernist architecture | Beach day |
| Tarragona | 1h | €10-15 | Roman ruins, seaside amphitheater | History + beach |
| Lleida | 1h (AVE) | €25-35 | Pyrenees access, mountain cuisine | Adventure seekers |
| Blanes | 1h 15m | €12-18 | Costa Brava beaches, botanical gardens | Relaxation |
| Vic | 1h 30m | €15-20 | Authentic markets, medieval town | Local culture |
| Sant Feliu de Guíxols | 2h (train+bus) | €18-25 | Coastal monastery, sea caves | Off-the-beaten-path |
| Ripoll | 2h | €20-25 | Pyrenean gateway, historic monastery | Mountain culture |
Pro Tip: Book morning trains to maximize your day trip time! Return tickets are often cheaper when purchased together.
1. Montserrat – The Sacred Mountain Adventure
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: €22-25 round trip (including rack railway)
Departure: Plaça Espanya train station
Montserrat stands as one of the most spectacular Barcelona day trips, combining spiritual significance with breathtaking natural beauty. The journey begins with a regular train to Monistrol de Montserrat station, followed by the famous rack railway that climbs the dramatic mountain range.
What makes Montserrat special:
- The impressive Benedictine abbey housing the Black Madonna
- Stunning panoramic views of the Catalan countryside
- Hiking trails through unique rock formations
- The world-famous boys’ choir (Escolania)
The mountain train experience itself is unforgettable, offering spectacular views as you ascend. Don’t miss the cable car option for even more dramatic vistas of the Mediterranean landscape.
Stay Nearby: Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat offers mountain views and monastery access. For the ultimate convenience and best rates, book your perfect mountain retreat on CuddlyNest and wake up to Montserrat’s magical sunrise!
2. Girona – Medieval Magic and Game of Thrones Fame
Travel Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Cost: €15-20 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants station
This enchanting medieval town captivated the world as a Game of Thrones filming location. Girona’s old town features incredibly preserved medieval buildings, winding cobblestone streets, and the famous coloured tenement houses reflected in the Onyar River.
Girona’s highlights include:
- The stunning Gothic Cathedral with its impressive nave
- The jewish quarter with its medieval synagogue
- Ancient city walls offering panoramic views
- The Arab Baths and their Romanesque architecture
Take a leisurely stroll through the historic landmarks and discover why this port city has become one of Spain’s most photographed destinations. The trains run frequently from central barcelona, making it perfect for a full day tour.
Stay Nearby: Hotel CMC Girona offers luxury in the heart of the medieval quarter.
3. Figueres – Dalí’s Surreal Wonderland
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
Cost: €20-25 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
Home to the extraordinary Dalí Theatre Museum, Figueres offers an immersive journey into Salvador Dalí’s surreal world. This day trip showcases the artist’s final masterpiece – a museum he designed as his own mausoleum.
Must-see attractions:
- The Dali Museum with its iconic egg-topped building
- Dalí’s tomb and personal artifacts
- Interactive surreal installations
- The nearby Dalí Jewels exhibition
The museum houses the world’s largest collection of Dalí works, from his early creations to his final pieces. Plan for about an hour travel time each way, leaving plenty of time to explore this artistic wonderland.
Stay Nearby: Hotel Empordà combines modern comfort with Catalonian charm.
4. Sitges – Coastal Glamour and Beach Bliss
Travel Time: 40 minutes
Cost: €8-12 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants station
This glamorous small coastal town along the Costa Brava offers pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, and stunning modernist architecture. Sitges perfectly combines relaxation with cultural richness, making it ideal for half day tour or full-day adventures.
Sitges attractions:
- Beautiful sandy beaches perfect for swimming
- The Cau Ferrat Museum showcasing modernist art
- Charming old town with narrow streets
- Excellent restaurants serving fresh seafood
The fast train service makes Sitges easily accessible, with trains departing frequently throughout the day. The town’s natural beauty and artistic heritage create an unforgettable Mediterranean experience.
Stay Nearby: Hotel Medium Romàntic offers beachfront luxury with modernist charm.
5. Tarragona – Roman Grandeur by the Sea
Travel Time: 1 hour
Cost: €10-15 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 magnificent heritage alongside beautiful Mediterranean beaches.
Roman treasures include:
- The spectacular Roman Amphitheatre overlooking the sea
- Ancient city walls and towers
- The Roman Circus and Praetorium
- The art museum with extensive Roman collections
Combine history with beach time – the mediterranean sea provides perfect relaxation after exploring ancient streets. The city center offers excellent dining and shopping opportunities.
Stay Nearby: Hotel SB Express Tarragona provides modern comfort near ancient wonders.
6. Lleida – Gateway to the Pyrenees
Travel Time: 1 hours 6 minutes via high speed train
Cost: €25-35 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
While further than other destinations, Lleida offers access to stunning Pyrenean landscapes and serves as the region’s capital for mountain adventures. The high speed AVE trains make this journey surprisingly comfortable and scenic.
Lleida highlights:
- La Seu Vella cathedral with panoramic views
- Access to natural park areas in the Pyrenees
- Traditional Catalonian mountain cuisine
- Historic medieval castle ruins
This destination works best as a weekend trips option, allowing time to explore the surrounding mountain range and experience authentic Catalonian culture away from tourist crowds.
Stay Nearby: Parador de Lleida combines historic architecture with modern amenities.
Lobby, Parador de Lleida, Lleida
7. Blanes – Costa Brava’s Southern Gem
Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cost: €12-18 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
The southernmost town of the Costa Brava, Blanes offers spectacular beaches, botanical gardens, and traditional fishing village charm. This small coastal town provides the perfect escape from barcelona spain’s urban energy.
Blanes attractions:
- Marimurtra Botanical Garden with Mediterranean plants
- Sa Palomera rock formation dividing the beaches
- Fresh seafood markets and traditional restaurants
- Excellent walking tour opportunities along coastal paths
The town maintains its authentic fishing village character while offering modern amenities. Sea kayaking and water sports add adventure to your beach day.
Stay Nearby: Hotel Esplendid offers beachfront comfort with Costa Brava views. Experience coastal perfection with CuddlyNest’s handpicked beachside accommodations for your ultimate seaside escape!
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8. Vic – Medieval Market Town Excellence
Travel Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Cost: €15-20 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
This authentic medieval town showcases traditional Catalonian life with its famous Saturday market, medieval buildings, and preserved historical center. Vic offers an authentic glimpse into Catalonia’s rich cultural heritage.
Vic’s special features:
- Weekly market featuring local products and crafts
- Santa Maria cathedral with impressive murals
- Well-preserved middle ages architecture
- Traditional local shops and artisan workshops
Experience authentic Catalonian culture at your own pace while exploring narrow medieval streets and sampling regional specialties. The tourist office provides excellent guided tour options.
Stay Nearby: Les Clarisses Hotel Boutique offers historic elegance in the heart of medieval Catalonia.
9. Sant Feliu de Guíxols – Coastal Charm and Culture
Travel Time: No direct train so first the train journey to Girona (1 hour 20 minutes) and then from there a bus to Sant Feliu de Guíxols (50 minutes)
Cost: €18-25 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants to Girona, then regional bus
This picturesque coastal destination combines beautiful beaches with rich cultural heritage. The town features a stunning monastery, excellent restaurants, and access to the Costa Brava’s most beautiful coves.
Highlights include:
- The Benedictine Monastery of Sant Feliu
- Beautiful sea caves accessible by boat
- Excellent wine tasting opportunities
- Charming old town with traditional architecture
The journey requires a connection but rewards travelers with one of the Costa Brava’s most authentic experiences. Public transport connections work well for day tour planning.
Stay Nearby: Hotel ILUNION Caleta Park offers boutique charm steps from the Mediterranean.
10. Ripoll – Pyrenean Heritage and Natural Beauty
Travel Time: 2 hours
Cost: €20-25 round trip
Departure: Barcelona Sants
Known as the “Cradle of Catalonia,” Ripoll features the magnificent Santa Maria monastery and serves as a gateway to Pyrenean adventures. This historic town offers natural beauty combined with significant cultural heritage.
Ripoll treasures:
- Santa Maria de Ripoll monastery with its famous portal
- Ethnographic Museum showcasing Pyrenean culture
- Access to hiking trails and natural park areas
- Traditional mountain cuisine and local shops
The town provides an excellent base for exploring the french border region and experiencing traditional Pyrenean culture. Consider this for weekend trips to fully appreciate the area’s offerings.
Stay Nearby: Hotel Ripoll provides mountain comfort with cultural access.
Unlock Your Perfect Day Trip Adventure
Barcelona’s prime location makes it the ultimate hub for unforgettable day trips by train—from sun-soaked beaches to medieval villages and mountain escapes. Skip the hassle of a car and explore effortlessly!
Pro Tips for Train Travel:
Book tickets early in peak season (stations or online)
Most destinations are under 2 hours away
Small-group tours offer stress-free guided experiences
Whether you’re craving a half-day trip to Sitges or a full-day adventure to Girona, these train journeys from Barcelona deliver the best of Catalonia.
Ready to explore? Book your perfect Barcelona stay on CuddlyNest for exclusive rates and central locations—so you’re always steps away from your next epic day trip by train!
FAQs For Day Trips from Barcelona By Train
1. Are these day trips suitable for families with young children?
Yes! Montserrat, Sitges, and Blanes are especially family-friendly with easy walks, beaches, and engaging sights. Pack snacks and check train schedules for family discounts.
2. Can I use my Barcelona transport pass for these trips?
No—regional trains (Rodalies/RENFE) require separate 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 day trip for avoiding crowds?
Vic (market days excepted) and Ripoll offer authentic local experiences with fewer tourists. Visit mid-week for the quietest experience.
4. Should I book guided tours or explore independently?
Independent travel is easy for Sitges/Tarragona. For Montserrat or Dalí’s museum, consider a small-group tour to skip lines and gain insights.