Getting to know Barcelona is not limited to the city limits, since in the vicinity of the city there are many places that are inextricably linked with the history and culture of the capital of Catalonia. Just a few hours drive from Barcelona you can find grandiose castles and palaces, picturesque villages, small resort towns with excellent beaches, ultra-modern water parks.

You can go to the surrounding cities of Barcelona on sightseeing tours that can be ordered on the websites of Barcelona travel agencies, or rent a car and go on an independent trip. Each option has a number of advantages and disadvantages.

Where to go from Barcelona on the map:

Ordering an excursion promises a detailed acquaintance with world-famous objects with interesting stories about each of them, but it forces you to squeeze into a rigid schedule and endure being close to other sightseers. Traveling by car gives you the freedom to choose your destination, but requires an international driving license, insurance, a credit card, knowledge of Spanish driving habits, and many other nuances.

Read also our other articles about Barcelona:

Top 30 places to visit from Barcelona

(Colonia Güell) - one of the most popular attractions in the vicinity of the capital of Catalonia, often becomes the first item on the program when choosing where to go from Barcelona, ​​since it is located 15 km from the center. At the end of the 19th century, entrepreneur Eusebi Güell built a weaving factory and a small settlement for workers with residential buildings, a church, a school, a market, shops, and a theater on his estate Can Soler de la Torre. The project was developed by Antonio Gaudi, but due to disagreements between the architect and Güell, the colony was completed under the guidance of Gaudi's students and friends Francesca Berenguer, Joseph Canaleta, Juan Rubio.

Colonia Güell is a green settlement spread over an area of ​​about 160 hectares. Small nice cottages with gardens were intended for the workers, solid mansions for the management.

Why visit:

• Colonia Güell is one of the most beautiful architectural and artistic complexes in Barcelona.
• On the territory of the complex there is a crypt - a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• In October, a three-day festival is held annually in Colonia Güell with markets, theatrical shows, and carnivals.

How to get there:

• You can take the FGC train from Plaza España station to the Colonia Güell stop, then walk along the footprints drawn on the path to the information center. The fare is from €3.
• By car on the B-10 or B-23 (19 km). Travel time is about 30 minutes.

When deciding where to go from Barcelona for one day, you should pay attention to Vic, an ancient city in the municipality of the same name, 71 km from the capital of Catalonia, which is unique historical architectural complex from facilities different eras .

Among the main attractions of Vik, which has preserved the atmosphere of the Middle Ages almost in its original form:

• Plaza Mayor Market Square
• Roman temple and bridge
• Bishop's Palace, where the Episcopal Museum is now located, with a statue of Abbot Oliva and a bell tower
• Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle of the 11th century in the Gothic style with the Baroque Chapel of St. Bernard
• Tower Campanari Crypta de la Catedral 45 m high
• Houses of noble citizens of the XIV-XV centuries.
• Mansions of the beginning of the 20th century in the Art Nouveau style
• Balconies of residential buildings and lanterns in central area cities designed by Gaudí

Why visit:

• Vik impresses with a variety of architectural styles.
• Vik often hosts festivals and festive events with colorful performances, theatrical medieval markets, where merchants and buyers are dressed up in authentic costumes, and flamenco dance shows.
• In the city and its environs, there are many private enterprises producing delicious smoked meats and sausages, known throughout Spain and Europe.

How to get there:

• By RENFE e12 bus from Barcelona-Casp-Pau-Claris station in Barcelona to Vic station. The fare is about €11.
• By train R3 from Plaza Catalunya station in Barcelona to Vic station. The fare is about €7.
• By car on the C-17 highway (70 km). Travel time is about 1 hour.

100 km from Barcelona in the gorge among the rocks of Tavertet lies one of the most impressive natural attractions in Catalonia- reservoir Sau (Sau Reservoir). A huge artificial pond was created in the 60s of the 20th century to provide the country with water during dry periods and to build a hydroelectric power station needed to supply Catalonia with electricity. During the construction, the ancient village of Santa Roma de Sau was flooded, the inhabitants of which were relocated to other regions.

During dry periods, when the water of the reservoir is actively used, the church of La Sau opens. When the reservoir is completely filled, only the upper fragment of the spire on the bell tower is visible.

Why visit:

• The Sau reservoir is located in an extremely picturesque place, among the rocks covered with forests. Observation decks have been set up.
• Swimming areas are provided. There is an opportunity to go surfing or paddle boarding. There are rental stations for kayaks, boats, water equipment.
• There are hotels and camping sites on the reservoir.

How to get there:

• By RENFE train from Barcelona from Plaza Catalunya station or from Sants station to Vic. The fare is about €7. Then take a taxi to the reservoir.
• By bus from Vic to Vilanova de Sau - only on Saturdays. Departure at 12:10. You will have to walk from the station to the reservoir.
• By car via Vic on the C-17 (90 km). Travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes.

(Montserrat) - one of the oldest monasteries in Spain and an important point when choosing a place to go from Barcelona, ​​is located in the mountains at an altitude of 725 m above sea level in the National Park in the Pyrenees, 50 km from the capital of Catalonia.

Nowadays Benedictine monastery with a thousand-year history is a cultural and historical complex, where thousands of tourists and pilgrims come every day. The main building of the complex is the Basilica of the Virgin Mary of Montserrat with a throne room where the statue of the Holy Virgin Mary of Montserrat (Black Madonna) is located. There are also other interesting sights here:

• Altar chapel
• Museum of Montserrat
• Chapel Holy Cave
• Monastery Library
• Escolania de Montserrat - children's choir
• Residential buildings with cells for monks

Why visit:

• Montserrat is located in a picturesque area, among forests and mountains.
• The monastery is a popular tourist center, remaining the main active monastery and spiritual symbol of Spain.
• You can attend colorful services and listen to amazing music.

How to get there:

• By bus from Estacio Sants bus station to Plaza del Funicular station. The fare is €4.5. Travel time - 40 minutes. Then climb to the monastery complex along cable car - €5.
• By FGC commuter train from Plaza España to Montserrat Aeri station. Then take the cable car up.
• The cheapest way is to buy the Trans Montserrat combo ticket for €31.5, which includes metro, round trip train, round trip funicular or rack railway (kremalera).
• By car on the A-2 or C58 highway (60 km). Travel time is about 1 hour.

The ancient city of Manresa is located on the Cardener River, 55 km from Barcelona. The city, known long before the birth of Christ, got its name during the period of the Roman Empire. In the 16th century, the founder of the Jesuit order, Ignatius de Loyola, who was later canonized, stopped there for prayers on the way from the monastery of Montserrat to Jerusalem. Since then, the city has become a center of Catholic pilgrimage.

Now viticulture and winemaking are flourishing in Manresa, textile, metallurgical and glass enterprises are operating. The historical center of the city is replete with architectural masterpieces from different eras, the main of which are recognized as an architectural ensemble in the Art Deco style on Saint Domenech Square, the Gothic Basilica of Santa Maria de la Seu, the restored stone bridge of the XIII century across the Cardener River.

Why visit:

• The city has many interesting temples and medieval buildings.
• It is worth visiting the cave of Santa Cova, where St. Ignatius prayed.
• Manresa produces wonderful wine.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona from Ronda Universitat station to Manresa. The fare is from €6. Travel time is over an hour.
• By train R5-R50 from Plaza España station. The fare is from €4. Travel time is about 1:30.
• By car on the C-16 highway (60 km). Travel time is about 1 hour.

When compiling a route where to go from Barcelona for one day, it is advisable to include Cardona, a small ancient city 80 km from the provincial capital, on the list. The main attraction of Cardona - castle founded at the end of the 9th century by Vifred Volosaty, - dominates the city from the height of a massive hill.

In the old days, Cardona was the residence of the highest nobility of the Kingdom of Aragon, whose representatives were related by blood to the royal dynasty. Now it is a quiet and calm town, the cobbled streets of which have preserved the atmosphere of the Middle Ages.

Why visit:

• Cardona Castle is recognized as the largest building of its kind in Catalonia. Now it houses a pretentious hotel.
• The city has several noteworthy ancient churches with stunning interiors.
• A walk along the narrow streets of Cardona will especially appeal to lovers of historical sights.

How to get there

• By bus from Barcelona bus station Estasio del Nord. The fare is from €10 one way. Travel time is about 2 hours.
• By train from Plaza España to Manresa, then by taxi to Cardona.
• By car via Manresa on the C-16 and C-55 highways (100 km). Travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes.

(Solsona) - a small town 104 km from the capital of Catalonia and 20 km from Cardona, an excellent choice when deciding where to go from Barcelona for a day. Solsona has preserved many ancient architectural structures worthy of a visit. An equally good reason for traveling is the abundance of enchanting holidays, carnivals, and festivals that are regularly held in the city.

The historical center of Solsona, where the main attractions of the city are concentrated, is mixture of architectural styles and directions of different eras. The following deserve special attention:

• Cathedral of Santa Maria of the 12th century with a statue of the Blessed Virgin in black stone
• Diocesan Museum
• old mansions
• 15th century fountain in St. John's Square
• Llobert Palace
• Afrau Bridge of the XIV century in the vicinity of the city
• Marais de la Font Natural Park

Why visit:

• Solsona is famous for its culinary traditions. You can try Catalan cuisine with a colorful regional accent in any restaurant in the city.
• The city's main festival, Fiesta Mayor de Solsona, has been celebrated annually on September 8 since the 17th century.
• Visiting the city in February, you can witness a no less spectacular show - the carnival "Giants of Solsona", with a procession of costumed giant figures.

How to get there:

• By ALSA bus from Barcelona bus station. The fare is about €18.
• By train to Manresa, then by taxi.
• By car via Manresa and Cardona on the C-58, C-16 and C-55 (113 km). Travel time is 1 hour 30 minutes.

(Gerona) - an ancient city on the Onyar River, 100 km from Barcelona, attracts with an abundance of monumental architectural structures of past eras. For a thousand years of its existence, Girona was subjected to sieges and assaults 25 times, but only 7 times it was subjected, for which it received the title of "immortal city". Modern Girona with energy and scope. It is the capital of the province of the same name, a major tourist center and a university city.

In the historical center of Girona there are unique historical and architectural objects:

• Cathedral of the Holy Virgin Mary of the 15th century on Cathedral Square
• Monastery of Saint Dominic of the 13th century
• Bishop's Palace
• Benedictine Monastery of Saint Peter Galligans
• Remains of the fortification walls of the Roman period around the Old City
• Jewish Quarter Il Kall
• Bridges of Pont de Sant Agustí and Pont de Pedra
• Arab baths

Why visit:

• There are several museums in Girona with interesting expositions. Worth visiting is the Museum of the History of Girona, where the remains of the Capuchin monks are kept, the Cathedral Museum with the tapestry "Creation of the World", the Museum of the History of the Jews of Girona, the Archaeological Museum.
• Girona hosts many festivals, vibrant street shows, colorful festivities all year round.
• Girona is one of the most interesting cities Catalonia for gastronomic tourism. There are many restaurants specializing in the cuisine of different parts of Catalonia and Spain.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona bus station. The fare is from €13.50. Travel time is about 1:30.
• By train from Barcelona Sants train station. The fare is about €10. Travel time is about an hour.
• By car along the AR-7 highway (100 km). Travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes.

The small village of Púbol in the province of Girona is worth adding to your list of places to visit from Barcelona for a day for fans of Salvador Dali, as it is home to the famous castle that the prominent surrealist gave to his wife Galá. The Dali couple lived in the castle until 1982, when Gala died. She is buried in a crypt in the basement of the castle, decorated during Dali's lifetime. The artist himself found his last refuge in the theater-museum of Figueros.

Pubol Castle is a massive building of the 11th century, restored and decorated by Dali. Now there are exhibitions of paintings by the artist, household and personal items of Dali and his wife. The interiors of the castle amaze with artistic decoration.

Why visit:

• The last years of Dali's life passed in Pubol Castle.
• The castle houses priceless works of the artist.
• In Pubol one can feel a special atmosphere permeated with happy and tragic events of the last decades of Dali's life.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona bus station to La Pera village. The fare is from €3. Then you can take a taxi to Pubol or walk.
• By train from Barcelona Sants station to Flassa station. Pubol is 4 km away. You can take a taxi or walk.
• By car via Girona on the AP-7 and C-66 highways (120 km from Barcelona, ​​15 km from Girona). Travel time is 1 hour 30 minutes. The car should be left in the parking lot at the entrance to the village.

(Figueres) - the hometown of Salvador Dali, located near the border with France, 117 km from Barcelona. The main attraction of Figueres is considered Dali Theater Museum, designed by the artist. The expositions of the museum include paintings, engravings, photographs, sculptures, and jewelry made by the brilliant master.

In addition to the theater-museum in Figueres are:

• Empodra Museum, which houses a rich collection of archaeological finds and antiques
• Empodra Technical Museum with a large exhibition of vintage cars
• Catalan Toy Museum
• Amiel Martin watch collection
• City garden-theater

Why visit:

• Figueres has one of the largest collections of Dali paintings.
• The remains of the artist are immured in the floor of one of the halls of the Dali Theater-Museum, according to the will of the master.
• In Figueres there is a magnificent castle-fortress of the XVIII century San Ferran.

How to get there:

• By train from Barcelona Sants train station, El Clot Arrago or Passeig de Gràcia. Fare - from €18 Travel time - about an hour.
• There are Sagales buses to Figueres. The fare is from €8. Travel time is about an hour.
• By car via Girona on the AP-7 highway (140 km). Travel time is 1 hour 30 minutes.

(Empuriabrava) - a relatively new resort town on the shores of the Gulf of Roses in the Ampurdan National Park, 140 km from Barcelona, ​​often called "Spanish Venice" for the many canals that divide the city into many parts. The resort was built in the early 70s of the last century.

Empuriabrava is located in a place open to all winds, thanks to which it has become a center for lovers of windsurfing, yachting, wakeboarding, sailing and other sports that are inextricably linked with the water and air elements.

Why visit:

• The city of Empuriabrava is extremely picturesque, it is even called the "Spanish Venice".
• The city often hosts all kinds of sporting events.
• There are excellent beaches within the city.

How to get there:

• By direct bus from Barcelona to Empuriabrava. Travel time is about 2 and a half hours.
• By train to Figueres, then by bus to Empuriabrava.
• By car via Girona and Figueres on the AP-7 highway (150 km). Travel time is 1 hour 40 minutes.

(Cadaqués) - a resort town on the Costa Brava, in the province of Girona, 170 km from Barcelona, ​​deserves special attention when choosing a place to go from Barcelona, ​​because for many years has been a source of inspiration for artists, writers, poets in Spain and Europe. The city has gained immense popularity thanks to the enthusiastic stories of Salvador Dali, Marc Chagall, Garcia Lorca.

Among the main attractions of Cadaqués:

• Church of St. Mary of the 17th century in the Gothic style
• Museum of the History of Cadaqués
• Dali House Museum
• Monument to Dali on the embankment
• Capa de Creus Natural Park at Cape Creus
• Lighthouse at Cape Creus

Why visit:

• Cadaqués is one of the most beautiful resorts on the Costa Brava.
• The city houses many works by Dali.
• Spectacular festivals and carnivals are often held.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona Nord bus station. The fare is from €2. Travel time is about 3 hours.
• By RENFE train from Barcelona Gracia station to Cadaqués. The fare is from €16. Travel time is about 2 hours.
• By car via Girona and Figueres on the AP-7 highway (170 km). Travel time - 2 hours.

(Sitges) - a popular youth resort on the Costa del Garraf, can be called one of the best travel options when deciding where to go from Barcelona for a day, as it is located about 40 km from the capital of Catalonia.

There are few historical sights in Sitges, but the resort has gained popularity not by its architecture. A golden strip of comfortable beaches stretches along the picturesque coast. Worthy of mention are the Church of St. Bartholomew and St. Thekla of the 17th century, the Marisel Palace of the early 20th century, mansions and villas of wealthy Spaniards and Europeans in the fashionable area of ​​​​the resort.

Why visit:

• Sitges is one of the best places around Barcelona for beach holiday.
• The resort is famous for its excellent cuisine.
• Carnivals and festivals are often held.

How to get there:

• By Monbus bus from the Ronda Universidad stop. Fare - from € 4. Travel time - no more than 40 minutes.
• By train from any of the three Barcelona railway stations. The fare is from € 5. Travel time is about 40 minutes.
• By car on the C-32 highway (40 km). Travel time is 45 minutes.
• You can take a ferry from the port of Barcelona. The fare is from € 14. Travel time is about 40 minutes.

(Vilanova i la Geltrú) - a city on the Costa del Garraf, the capital of the Garraf region, deserves the closest attention when choosing a place to go from Barcelona for a day, as it is located about 45 km from the capital of Catalonia.

The main attractions of Vilanova i la Geltru are: Library-Museum of Victor Balaguer, where exhibits from the times of the Roman Empire, paintings by Catalan artists of the 19th-20th centuries, collections of rare books, as well as the Railway Museum located in the depot building and the Can Papiol Romantic Museum are stored.

Why visit:

• Vilanova i la Geltru - perfect place for a beach holiday.
• Festivals are held regularly.
• There are hiking and cycling trails around the city.

How to get there:

• By bus from Plaza España station. The fare is from €5. Travel time is about 50 minutes.
• By train R2 from Paseo de Gracia. The fare is from €4. Travel time - 45 minutes.
• By car via Sitges on the C-32 (50 km). Travel time is 50 minutes.

15. Vilafranca del Penedes

Vilafranca del Penedes (Villafranca del Panades) - small town in Alt Penedès and the wine center of Catalonia, located 55 km from Barcelona. The city attracts ancient architecture, centuries-old traditions and many wineries that produce the finest sparkling and dry wines in Spain.

In Vilafranca del Pendes worth seeing:

• Church of Santa Maria of the 13th century in the Gothic style on the square of the same name
• 13th century royal palace
• Gothic style chapel
• Palace of Balta
• Monastery of Saint Francis
• Church of St. John on the square of the same name with a fountain
• Mansions in the Art Nouveau style of the early 20th century
• The Wine Museum, housed in a pompous 14th-century building

Why visit:

• In Vilafranca del Penedès you can visit wineries where wine tastings are held.
• Extremely popular are local holidays dedicated to harvesting, wine maturation and other equally important dates.
• Casteller shows are often held - a traditional Catalan fun, which is the construction of towers from people climbing on each other's shoulders.

How to get there:

• By bus e6 from Barcelona. The fare is from €5. Travel time is about an hour.
• By train R4 from Plaça Catalunya. The fare is from €3. Travel time is about an hour.
• By car via Sitges on the C-32 (60 km). Travel time is 55 minutes.

(Montblanch) - a city founded in the XII century, lies at the foot of Mont Blanc (White Mountain), 50 km from Tarragona, 130 km from Barcelona. dominates the city giant medieval castle, residence of Aragonese kings. Mont Blanc attracts with its medieval architecture, ancient legends, and the beauty of the surrounding mountains.

Mont Blanc is replete with magnificent architectural structures, reminiscent of the heroic past of the city. Narrow cobbled streets, over which houses made of light stone rise, lead to stone squares with palaces and temples.

Why visit:

• Mont Blanc is especially interesting for lovers of historical sights.
• There are excellent hotels for travelers.
• In the vicinity of Mont Blanc is one of the longest caves in the world - Font Major, which houses the Museum of Prehistory and Geology.

How to get there:

• By R train from Barcelona Sants station. The fare is from €13. Travel time is about 2 hours.
• By car via Vilafranca del Penedès on the AP-7 and AP-2 highways (120 km). Travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes.

17. Tarragona

Tarragona is a great option to diversify your vacation by choosing a route where to go from Barcelona. One of the most popular resorts in Catalonia, teeming with attractions and beaches, located 80 km from the capital of the region.

Some of the places worth visiting in Tarragona include:

• Roman aqueduct
• Roman forum
• Roman Museum
• National Archaeological Museum Tarragona
• roman governor's palace
• mediterranean balcony
• Cathedral and many others.

Why visit:

• In Tarragona, you can combine a beach holiday with sightseeing.
• Tarragona is home to one of the largest markets in Catalonia.
• Tarragona is home to one of the largest sports venues in Catalonia, the Arena Tarraco Plaza.

How to get there:

• By bus from the airport or from the Plaza de España station. The fare is from €8. Travel time - 1 hour 20 minutes.
• By train from any station in Barcelona. The fare is from €7 to €32. Travel time - from 35 to 1 hour 50 minutes.
• By car along the S-32 and AR-7 highways (100 km). Travel time is 1 hour 16 minutes.

18. Port Aventura

Port Aventura World - famous park attractions, located between Tarragona and Salou, occupies a worthy place in the list of places to visit from Barcelona. The largest entertainment complex in Catalonia consists of several thematic zones, designed in accordance with geographic location, culture and traditions of different countries - the Mediterranean, Mexico, the Wild West, Polynesia, China. There are separate areas for adults and children. Improved Sesame Street.

On the territory of Port Aventura there are cafes, restaurants, souvenir shops. Shows and festivals dedicated to holidays and solemn events are held. There are animators.

Why visit:

• This is one of the most famous and visited amusement parks not only in Spain, but throughout Europe.
• PortAventura provides an opportunity for visitors of all ages to plunge into the world of fantastic adventures.
• There are attractions for fans of extreme sports.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona airport or Plaza Catalunya. The fare is about €15. Travel time is about 2 hours.
• By train R16 from Barcelona-Sants. The fare is about €9. Travel time is about 1:30.

19. Salou

Salou is an excellent choice where to go from Barcelona, ​​as the popular Mediterranean resort will provide an opportunity to see many architectural structures of past centuries, visit museums and art galleries, enjoy Catalan cuisine, and relax on the beaches.

The resort town is located on the picturesque, indented coast of the Costa Dorada, 110 km from Barcelona. The main attractions of Salou:

• Church of Santa Maria del Mar, 18th century
• Fortress of Torre Velha
• Manor Macia Catalana
• Embankment of King Haume I
• Fountains.

Why visit:

• Salou is one of the most popular youth resorts on the Costa Dorada.
• The most spectacular flamenco shows are held there.
• Not far from Salou is the most famous amusement park Port Aventura.

How to get there:

• By bus from Plaza España or Barcelona bus station. The fare is from €14. Travel time is about 2 hours.
• By train from Barcelona Sants Station, Passeig Gracia. The fare is about €9. Travel time - 1 hour 20 minutes.
• By car along the S-32 and AR-7 highways (110 km). Travel time is 1 hour 25 minutes.

20. Delta del Ebro Park

Delta del Ebro National Park, where you should go from Barcelona for one day, spread over an area of ​​more than 320 km². In the protected area among countless tributaries, shallow lagoons, lakes, sand dunes, salt marshes, hills overgrown with lush greenery, a huge number of animals, birds, amphibians live.

In the Delta del Ebro park, there are areas where vegetables, fruits, herbs are grown, rice and corn fields are cultivated. There are fish farms. There are several museums on the territory - Ornithological, Ecological and Montsia Museum with expositions of rare natural exhibits and archaeological finds.

Why visit:

• Delta del Ebro Park is the best place to relax in the lap of nature.
• There are several well-maintained beaches on the territory.
• There is an opportunity to see rare plants and watch birds.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona station. The fare is from €12 to €20. Travel time - 2 hours 20 minutes.
• By R train from Paseo Gracia station. The fare is from €14. Travel time is more than 2 hours.
• By car along the S-32 and AR-7 highways (180 km). Travel time is 2 hours 10 minutes.

21. Canet de Mar

Canet de Mar is a great place to visit from Barcelona. A small resort town on the Costa de Maresme, 43 km from the capital of Catalonia, is of interest to lovers a relaxing beach holiday and ancient architecture. There are not too many tourists in the city, so you can relax without the noisy bustle and crowds of people.

Canet de Mar was founded in the 11th century, but the architecture is not ancient. The main attractions of the city were built in the late XIX - early XX centuries with the participation of the architect Luis Domenech-i Montaner, who worked in the Art Nouveau style. The medieval castle of Santa Florentina, which was reconstructed by the architect, deserves special attention. Many impressive buildings in the spirit of Domenech-i-Montaner were erected by the master's students after his death.

Why visit:

• On the coast there are several wonderful sandy beaches awarded the Blue Flag.
• There are several decent budget hotels in Canet de Mar where you can comfortably settle in for a few days.
• Santa Florentina Castle featured in Game of Thrones as Horn Hill, Tarly's estate.

How to get there:

• By bus 603 from Barcelona station. The fare is up to €7. Travel time is about an hour.
• By train R1 from Plaza Catalunya station. The fare is up to €6. Travel time is about an hour.
• By car on the C-32 highway (50 km). Travel time is 45 minutes.

22. Blanes and Marimurtra Park

(Blanes) - a small seaside resort in the province of Girona on the Costa Brava, can be called one of the places where you should go from Barcelona for 2-3 days, since it is only 60 km from it. Banes primarily attracts beach lovers. In addition to the beaches, it is famous for its medieval churches, monasteries, castles and two botanical gardens of amazing beauty.

Marimurtra Park - the main botanical garden of Blanes, was founded in 1921. The territory of about 4 hectares, divided into three parts, corresponding to different climatic zones - tropical, Mediterranean and temperate, strikes with the splendor and variety of plants and flowers. In addition to the lush flora in the park, you can meet numerous representatives of the fauna - birds, animals, amphibians.

Why visit:

• Blanes and Marimurtra Park are located on an extremely picturesque stretch of coast, against the backdrop of the sea and rocks.
• There are several excellent sandy and pebbly beaches on the shore, indented by bays.
• Near Blanes there are several entertainment centers for children, including the Dolphinarium in Palafalls and Gnomopark.

How to get there:

• By bus 2 from Barcelona-Ronda Sant Per Plaza Urquinaona station. The fare is from €2 to €15. Travel time - 40 minutes.
• By R1 train from Barcelona Plaza Catalunya station. The fare is from €3 to €7. Travel time - 1:25.
• By car on the C-32 highway (70 km). Travel time is 1 hour 5 minutes.

(Lloret de Mar) - the main youth resort of Catalonia, especially attractive for lovers of entertainment and round-the-clock drive. There are many ultra-modern hotels, entertainment venues and nightclubs, and festivals are often held.

Lloret de Mar is attractive for adherents of ancient architecture. Among the objects worthy of attention are the Church of St. Roman of the first half of the 16th century, San Juan Castle, the castle on the beach, the Modernist cemetery, the Cat House Museum, the statue of the Fisherman's Wife near the city beach, Clotilde Gardens.

Why visit:

• Lloret de Mar is famous for its abundance of excellent Blue Flag beaches.
• The city has many entertainment centers for children.
• There is a casino in Lloret de Mar.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona bus station. The fare is about €11. Travel time is about an hour.
• By train R1 from Barcelona Sants station to Blanes. The fare is €6.15. Travel time is about one and a half hours. Then you can get to Lloret de Mar by taxi or regular bus.
• By car on the C-32 highway (75 km). Travel time is 1 hour 10 minutes.

24. Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar, a resort town on the Costa Brava, is one of the best places to visit from Barcelona for a few days. The picturesque surroundings and amazing architecture of Tossa de Mar in the 50s of the last century served as the backdrop for the film "Pandorra and the Flying Dutchman" with Ava Gardner, which became the impetus for the development of the tourist infrastructure of the provincial town and its transformation into a thriving resort.

Tossa de Mar attracts narrow quiet streets winding along the slopes of the mountains, old buildings, the fortress of Vila Velha, towering over the city. It is comfortable to relax here both alone and with a company or family.

Why visit:

• Tossa de Mar is known for its well-maintained beaches and picturesque bays with caves and grottoes.
• There is an opportunity to go snorkeling, diving, surfing, kiting.
• Festivals and mass celebrations dedicated to religious and historical events are often held.

How to get there:

• By bus 2 from Estacio del Nord bus station. The fare is from €2 to €15. Travel time hour 20 minutes.
• By train R1 from Plaza Catalunya station to Blanes. The fare is €3-7. Travel time - 1 hour 25 minutes. To Tossa de Mar can be reached by bus.
• By car on the C-32 highway (85 km). Travel time is 1 hour 20 minutes.

25. Val de Nuria

Val de Nuria or Valley of Saint Nuria (Valle De Nuria) in the province of Girona in the Pyrenees mountains represents of special interest for lovers of beautiful mountain scenery. The valley, surrounded by mountain peaks up to 3,000 m and located at a considerable height above sea level, is quite difficult to get into, but all the difficulties of the path fade before the beauty of the landscape.

In the central part of the Val de Nuria is majestic building peculiar form, in which the monastery was located in the 17th century. After the civil war, the building was reconstructed into a hotel and a museum.

Why visit:

• Val de Nuria is a great place where you can relax in the bosom of nature.
• Works in the valley in winter ski resort.
• The museum contains interesting exhibits, including an ancient statuette of St. Nuria, the patroness of the valley.

How to get there:

• By bus e12 from Barcelona - Casp - Pau Claris station to Vic station. The fare is from €7 to €11. Travel time is more than 1 hour. From Vik station, take the Camprodon bus to Campdevanol station. The fare is from €3 to €6. Travel time - 40 minutes. From Kampdewanol Station you can take a taxi to the valley. The fare is up to €60.
• By train R3 from Plaza Catalunya station to Ribes de Fraser station. The fare is about €8. Travel time is about 2 hours 20 minutes. From Ribes de Fraser station in Val de Nuria you can take a taxi. The fare is up to €27.
• By car via Vic on the C-17 (130 km). Travel time is 1 hour 55 minutes.

One of the most tempting places where I would like to go from Barcelona is the Principality of Andorra (Andorra), real paradise for lovers skiing and snowy forests. Andorra attracts in summer the beauty of green mountain slopes, clean lakes, many hiking and cycling routes.

Andorra la Vella - the capital of the principality, located in the central part of the country, is known for skiing and balneological resorts, luxury hotels, majestic sights.

Why visit:

• Andorra has a favorable climate and clean mountain air.
• The country has preserved medieval temples, buildings of the Roman and Moorish periods.
• Andorra is in the zone duty free, so it is especially profitable to go there for shopping.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona airport to Andorra la Vella. The fare is up to €33. Travel time is about 3 and a half hours.
• By taxi you can reach Andorra la Vella in about 2 and a half - 3 hours. The fare is about €305.
• By car on the C-16 highway (200 km). Travel time is 2 hours 35 minutes.

(Perpignan) - a city in the valley of the river Tet in the province of Roussillon in southern France, about 15 km from the Mediterranean coast and 190 km from Barcelona, attracts with a special flavor due to the mixture of cultural traditions of Catalonia and France. Here are concentrated many medieval buildings, temples and palaces of past centuries, and grapes and many other crops are grown in the vicinity, providing economic development cities.

In different periods of its existence, Perpignan has repeatedly become an object of admiration and a source of inspiration for outstanding masters of painting. Seeing Perpignan, Salvador Dali called it "the center of the world" and took a direct part in the decorative design of the station building. An art gallery opened in the city fine arts Hyacinth Rigaud, which contains a fine collection of works by Spanish and French artists and sculptors.

Why visit:

• In the vicinity of Perpignan there are several wonderful uncrowded beaches.
• Perpignan is distinguished by excellent cuisine, which is a mixture of the gastronomic traditions of Catalonia and France.
• The wineries of Perpignan produce excellent wines.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona Nord station to Perpignan. The fare is up to €30. Travel time - 2 hours 40 minutes.
• By train from Barcelona Sants Station. The fare is up to €40. Travel time - 1 hour 20 minutes.
• By car via Girona and Figueres on the AP-7 highway (200 km). Travel time - 2 hours.

(Carcassonne) - a city in the south of France, in the valley of the Aude River, in the province of Languedoc-Roussillon, 300 km from the capital of Catalonia, one of the most tempting places to go from Barcelona for a few days. A city divided by a river into Upper and Lower Carcassonne, impresses with an abundance of medieval buildings, among which are Sité - a powerful medieval fortress in Upper Carcassonne with a castle, the Basilica of St. Nazarius and the Museum of the Inquisition, and ancient stone mansions in Lower Carcassonne.

When traveling to Carcassonne in a rental car, keep in mind that traffic on the streets of the city is difficult, and closed in July and August.

Why visit:

• The Cité de Carcassonne is a typical example of a medieval French bastion.
• In July, a colorful arts festival is held in the fortress.
• In the restaurants of the city, you can get acquainted in detail with regional gastronomic masterpieces.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona Nord bus station. The cost of the trip is up to €40. Travel time - 4 hours 15 minutes.
• By train from Barcelona Sants Station to Carcassonne. The cost of the trip is up to €60. Travel time - 2 hours 20 minutes.
• By car via Girona and Perpignan on the AP-7 and A-9 highways (300 km). Travel time - 3 hours.

(Zaragoza) - the capital of the province of the same name in the Aragon region, located between Barcelona and Madrid, in the Ebro Valley. The city is known for its magnificent architecture. Along the banks of the Ebro stretches the Old City, replete with monumental temples, palaces, stone-paved squares. Particularly noteworthy are the Basilica of Nuestra Señora del Pilar, the Cathedral of San Salvador, the Court Palace with the tower of Torreon de la Suda on Plaza del Pilar, the Moorish Aljaferia Palace, the Palace of Los Condos de Argillo.

No less attractive is modern Zaragoza, a large university city where science, art, and literature flourish. Zaragoza is the hometown of Francisco de Goya and many other great artists, writers, poets. The city has several theatres, art galleries, museums, concert hall, there are many entertainment venues for visitors of different ages and cultural levels.

Why visit:

• Zaragoza is one of most beautiful cities Spain.
• New districts of the city attract with stunning office buildings designed by brilliant modern architects.
• With children, it is worth visiting the Luis Buñuel Water Park - one of the best amusement parks in Spain.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona bus station. The fare is up to €40. Travel time is about 3 and a half hours.
• By Ave train from Barcelona Sants Station. The fare is up to €55. Travel time is about one and a half hours.
• By car along the AR-2 highway (300 km). Travel time - 3 hours.

30. Valencia

Valencia (Valencia) - a brilliant resort and the capital of the province of the same name, is one of the best places to visit from Barcelona. The city, located in the valley of the Turia and Jucar rivers, on the Costa Blanca and Costa del Azahar, attracts with an abundance of sun and warmth, gentle sea, the beauty of magnificent buildings from different eras, cultural traditions, and excellent cuisine.

Valencia is an important economic, cultural and tourist center of the country. One of the largest airports Spain, sea ​​port, railway station connecting the regions of the country and Europe, bus stations. The coastline of Valencia combines many well-maintained sandy and pebble beaches.

Why visit:

• Valencia is one of the most beautiful cities in Spain.
• Here is one of the most beautiful modern attractions - the architectural complex City of Arts and Sciences.
• The city hosts many festivals, music shows, festive events.

How to get there:

• By bus from Barcelona Nord bus station. The fare is up to €40. Travel time - 4 hours 15 minutes.
• By train from Barcelona Sants Station. The fare is up to €50. Travel time is 3 and a half hours.
• By car along the AR-7 highway (350 km). Travel time is 3 hours 30 minutes.

Where is the best place to relax in Spain at sea? Coast of Catalonia! We would like to tell you about our favorite places to visit in Barcelona in a 1-3 day trip. We have studied the routes to the sights of the city more than once and for 4 trips there we have collected tons of photos and text for you. Where to go from Barcelona for one day? We will also talk about this and show you.

You can spin endlessly on the architectural and cultural carousel of the city, but if you have only a day or three left, the routes should be clear and systematized. What to see in Barcelona in a short time, where to go and, most importantly, how to get to must see places? Let's share our experience and feedback. Last time in May we went there for 9 whole days!

One of Barcelona's top attractions with huge queues

1. We recommend planning breakfast at the Brunch&Cake cafe located 10 minutes walk from Plaza Catalunya. Address: Carrer d'Enric Granados, 19. The doors swing open at 9 am, so we run straight to the opening, otherwise there will be a queue. The popularity of the place does not spoil the quality of breakfasts at all, which you can eat up to satiety for about 18 €, and to have the strength to go - for 10-12 € 🙂

2. Those “prepared” in advance can skip this point and immediately go down to the metro and take the L3 line to the Lesseps station. 15 minutes on foot, guided by the signs, and you - in Park Guell is an iconic landmark in Barcelona. In the morning it is most comfortable here, there are few tourists, and the sun is not so hot. 17 hectares of greenery, steps up, steps down, observation platforms and Gaudí's characteristic "gingerbread" style - a tour of the park, together with paid zones (8€), will take about 1.5 hours.

3. Returning the same way to the Catalunya metro station, cross the square and find yourself on the boulevard Rambla- the main tourist street of the city. Each visitor considers it necessary to walk a distance of a kilometer to monument to Columbus. And in parallel, consider all the offers of the city's souvenir and gift industry (at inflated prices) and evaluate the activities of street artists.

4. Here on the boulevard is Boqueria market, where you should definitely look if you want to imprint in your memory an excellent piece of jamon, a portion of selected spices and fresh fruits on your independent exploration of Barcelona in 1 day.

5. Turning off the Rambla, tourists get into Gothic Quarter. This is one of the oldest districts of the capital of Catalonia, its historical center, full of medieval architecture and chaotic streets. There are also objects that are not listed in the top attractions of Barcelona, ​​but, nevertheless, are considered the main points of visiting the quarter - Cathedral of Saint Eulalia, Royal Square, Church of Santa Maria del Pi. A suitable place for lunch is the Four Cats cafe on Carrer de Montsio, 3. Gaudí and Picasso used to eat here.

6. It will take about half an hour of walking to get to Sagrada Familia. To save time, you can take the metro at Passeig de Gracia and take line L2 to Sagrada Familia. If you plan to go inside, purchase tickets in advance online, as On the spot, you will surely find huge queues at the box office. The basic version of all available tickets costs 15€, with an audio guide - from 24€.

7. If your one day in Barcelona falls on Thursday - Sunday, go in the evening to plaza spain. From Sagrada Familia - take the L2 line to Universitat station, transfer to L1 and to Espanya station. Starts at 21:00 singing fountain show, daily gathering crowds of tourists.

However, if you are visiting the city from Monday to Wednesday, or the start time of the show is too late, complete the mini-tour with a walk along the Barceloneta promenade.

Where to eat in Barcelona in the evening? A good place is Salamanca on Calle Almirall Cervera, 34, where you can taste paella and sangria for dinner overlooking the sea 🙂

In general, you can immediately simplify your plans for the days ahead by taking a thematic tour from the locals:

If you have not yet decided how you will get to Barcelona and are thinking about a tour, then here are 3 proven sites for online booking of tours with 24-hour support:

The price is for one person when buying a tour for two

Barcelona in 2 days

What to see in Barcelona on day 2? Route:

1. Mila house,
2. Batllo house,
3. Barcelona Aquarium,
4. Museum of Catalan Art.

Looking for shrimp on a Barcelona beach

1. Located at the Diagonal metro station Mila's house. The special style of the building - in the form of waves - gives a little surrealism and the impression of the mobility of the house, and the characteristic "gingerbread" top betrays Gaudí's hand. Open for visits from 9 to 20, entrance ticket - €22.

1. Review: How tourists are deceived in Barcelona

1. Five hundred meters up the road is located Casa Batlló on Passeig de Gracia, 43. This is another example of the absence of any straight lines in the design of buildings from Gaudi, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is allowed to drop in from 9 to 21, having pre-paid a ticket with a minimum price of € 24.5.

1. You can continue the route in Barcelona on foot to the largest in the European part of the world Aquarium located on Moll d'Espanya, Port Vell. Visitors find themselves literally on the seabed, fenced off from thousands of marine life only by a glass tunnel. Well, as if they didn’t come to see outlandish creatures, but vice versa 🙂 Entrance is from 10 to 21 (depending on the time of year) and costs 20€.
2. To the largest museum in Barcelona - National Art Museum of Catalonia- you can get on the metro, having reached the Espanya station and passing through the already familiar Plaza de España up to the majestically towering palace. In summer, the museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday from 10 am to 8 pm, the ticket price is about 12 €. However, a free visit is also possible, more on that below.

In 2013, the entrance to Park Güell was still free.

Barcelona in 3 days

On day 3 in Barcelona, ​​you can see the following on your own route:

1. Barceloneta beach,
2. Mount Tibidabo,
3. spanish village,
4. Agbar Tower,
5. Embankment.

Where to live these 3 days? We in Barcelona do not prefer hotels, but apartments - cheaper, more comfortable, prettier. We are looking on the Airbnb service. If you are a beginner, you will get a discount of 2100 rubles for your first booking.

1. If in the previous days you did not manage to accommodate sunbathing on the Mediterranean coast, then this morning is the best time for swimming and sunbathing on the Barceloneta beach. Of course, subject to travel in the summer 🙂
2. Entertainment in Barcelona is still plentiful on the third day. One of the most interesting is climbing the mountain Tibidabo. Here are also amusement park, opened in the 19th century, and a complex of churches Temple of the Sacred Heart, and one of the best viewpoints in Barcelona. Reaching the highest point is an exciting adventure. First you need to get to the Av Tibidabo station on the L7 line, transfer to the famous Blue Tram (4 € one way), which has been running along the route for more than a century, and arrive at the Plaça del Funicular stop, from where the old Barcelona funicular will lift you up (7.7 €).
3. Returning the same way to Plaza Catalunya and taking the metro a little further to Espanya, you can get to Spanish village. This place is Spain in miniature: village houses, shops, churches from every region of the country are collected in the quarter. The cost of visiting will cost about 11 €.

1. Observation decks in Barcelona are also appreciated near the Glories metro station - there is a 34-story skyscraper visible from everywhere Agbar tower. Well, or “Glowing Cucumber”, as they call it at night 🙂 It is possible to get in for free thanks to dozens of restaurants and cafes in the building.
2. In the evening, you can go to the nightclubs of Barcelona, ​​lined up in a row along the waterfront of Barceloneta. Or you can just walk along the sea, enjoy the end of your visit to the capital of Catalonia and at the same time plan your next mandatory trip, because in addition to the sights described above, Barcelona still has something to surprise you!

Map of Barcelona with attractions

Below is a map of Barcelona with attractions in Russian. For your convenience, we have marked the main points of the Barcelona sightseeing itinerary that can be visited in 1, 2 and 3 days in different colors (blue, green and red respectively) so that you have a rough idea of ​​​​moving around the city.

Tip: if you're offline, the maps.me offline maps app is great for navigating the area! We personally tested it in different countries. Download a detailed map of Barcelona and transfer all waypoints to the app. Such an assistant, with marked streets, hotels, etc., will definitely not let you get lost 🙂 The main thing is to do everything in advance.

Another good guide to Barcelona, ​​combining Barcelona attractions and the 2019 metro map on a map:

In Barcelona, ​​the metro is the most convenient form of transport, connecting all corners of the city with its network. On the above map, you can see for yourself that each attraction, as a rule, can be reached by subway.

In total, the capital of Catalonia has about 180 metro stations, scattered over 10 lines. They (lines) differ by numbers - from L1 to L5, L9N, L9S, L10-L11 and FM. Since the metro system is integrated with the railways (following to the suburbs), there is a division into metro zones. All of Barcelona is in Zone 1.

How much does the metro cost in Barcelona?
A single one-way ticket, i.e. valid for both the metro and the bus, costs 2.20 €. It is purchased at stations in special machines - you will not find people selling tickets outside the window in Barcelona 🙂

You can reduce the cost of travel in the Barcelona metro if you intend to actively travel around the city. To do this, there is a T10 ticket, which for 10.20 € provides 10 trips on any type of public transport. One ticket can be used by several people. The T10 ticket does not apply to the L9 metro line and shuttles from the AeroBus airport.

You will definitely need a Barcelona metro map on the spot, so it is better to print it out in advance or download it to your phone. Recall that the opening hours vary depending on the days of the week: from Monday to Thursday 5:00-00:00, Friday and holidays 5:00-2:00, Saturday around the clock, Sunday 5:00-00:00.

Be sure to watch the sunset on Montjuic (Plaza de España)

Where to go from Barcelona?

If you have a couple of extra days left, and you have walked around the city up and down, then you may wonder - where to go from Barcelona for 1 day? You don’t have to travel very far for new “beach” experiences - the coasts of the Costa Brava (Lloret de Mar) and Costa Dorada, to the south and north of the capital, are rich in a scattering of golden sands and clear sea waves.

But if you are looking for something atypical… For this case, we have selected sights near Barcelona that will definitely make you admire, and some even freeze with fear.

It is most convenient to travel around Spain by car - and the company is "one's own", and there is no need to adjust to the schedule. We prefer to rent a car in advance on the Rentalcars website. The service scans the offers of all global and local rental agencies and pleases us with profitable options.

Our Trip to Barcelona (Montserrat Mountain and Benedictine Monastery - July 2016)

Ride the funicular, be surprised unusual shape cliffs, listen to the oldest children's choir in the world and touch the Black Madonna only 50 kilometers from Barcelona. To do this, you need to take the train from the R5 platform from the Espanya station to either the Aeri cable car or the Cremallera funicular. The cost together with transport upstairs is €21.50 round trip. You can save at your own peril and risk - buy a train ticket only one way, and drive back as a hare (there are no turnstiles).

Port Aventura and Ferrari Land. In 2013 it cost 42€, in 2018 - 55€. One of the most famous attractions in Barcelona, ​​the rides in these theme parks will tickle your nerves! Take at least the recently opened extreme slide Red Force, which will let you free fall from 112 meters. Our knees gave way for a long time ... But even after several trips to Barcelona, ​​every time we come here, we still go to Port Aventura. 🙂

Favorite place PortAventura (in 2013 it cost 42€, in 2018 - 55€)

Figueres. Where to go from Barcelona in order to touch the heritage of Catalan art? To the town where Salvador Dali was born and rests! Moreover, hundreds of tourists' feet pass over his grave a day, because. the artist is buried under one of the rooms of the famous Dali Theater Museum. You can get to Figueres for 20€ by train from Estacio Sants station in 55 minutes or by car, covering 140 km.

This city is divided by the river into two parts from different eras - modernity and the Middle Ages. In the old city, there are at least 5 museums, 8 temples and even Arab baths from the 12th century.

Our trip to Girona in May 2013

In general, this is really one of the attractions that are worth seeing near Barcelona. From Passieg de Gracia station there are trains every half an hour to Girona; ticket price - 9 €.

Trip to Girona for 10€

Empuriabrava. The city, dotted with water channels, along which the locals sedately move in boats, can be found not only in Italy. In Spain it is Empuriabrava. However, instead of gondolas, there are yachts, boats, boats belonging to the owners of villas and mansions built on patches of land, and professional yachtsmen. To get here, you need to drive to Figueres, and then take a bus for 4€.

Val de Nuria. This, of course, is no longer from the “what to see around Barcelona” section, because. the place is perhaps closer to Andorra 🙂 However, the picturesque mountains, clear lake, clean air and all-consuming serenity contrast so much with the landscapes and atmosphere of the capital of Catalonia that the 130-kilometer journey is worth it. If you have 3 days or more, stay longer! Get first by train on the R3 line from Placa de Catalunya to Ribes de Freser, and then by funicular train to an altitude of 1950 meters. The cost of a round-trip ticket is 30 €.

Probably the most exciting adventure you can do from Barcelona! The neighboring principality welcomes all tourists with a Schengen visa in their passport. The distance from Barcelona to Andorra is about 200 km, and it takes ≈ 3 hours by car. How to get from Barcelona to Andorra public transport? Only by bus from Sants station or El Prat airport for 28-41€ one way.

To Andorra beyond the mountains and shopping

Museums in Barcelona

Any route to the sights of Barcelona is not complete without ... museums! It's doubly nice to visit them for free, isn't it? How to do it? 🙂

• The most significant - National Museum Art of Catalonia(Museu Nacional d'Art de Catalunya), which keeps the collections of the former Museum contemporary art and the Art Museum of Catalonia. You will be able to pass for free every Saturday from 15 to 18 and the first Sunday of the month.

Went to main museum Catalonia (disliked)

• The capital of Catalonia cherishes the memory of another outstanding artist and sculptor. Picasso Museum in Barcelona(Museu Picasso) occupies 5 mansions, blending perfectly with the architecture Gothic Quarter. Drop by every Sunday after 15:00 without a ticket.
• Tell in detail the history of the provincial capital through numerous exhibits can Museum of the History of the City of Barcelona(MHCB). It is rarely open for free access - only on the first Sunday of the month.

• (MACBA) is for those who have a passion for futuristic displays, mesmerizing art installations and sometimes blushing photographs. Free admission is practiced every Sunday from 15 to 20.
• Well, why in Chocolate Museum in Barcelona(Museu de la Xocolata) without a ticket is allowed only on the first Monday of the month - quite understandably. Not enough chocolates that are awarded at the entrance to all visitors! 🙂

In general, if you give advice to tourists, then it is better to go to Spain, as well as to Barcelona in general, in order to have time to enjoy the sun, sea, steep roller coasters and sights to the fullest.

Copying of materials is allowed only with the obligatory indication of a direct, active and open for indexing hyperlink to the site.

Ideas for independent trips around Barcelona

Barcelona (Barcelona), of course, in itself is a huge and almost inexhaustible world. Nevertheless, in its vicinity there are many other interesting places that deserve attention. As a matter of fact, further on these places will be discussed. So, where can you go from Barcelona on your own?

Where to go around Barcelona

To begin with, consider several options near the capital of Catalonia. The choice here is considerable and is able to satisfy a lot of the most diverse interests. So, for example, very close to the place Montserrat(Montserrat)- mountain, nature Park and a monastery (Monestir Santa Maria de Montserrat) rolled into one. The place is amazing. You can safely set aside a whole day for Montserrat, or you can even stay longer, since at least one hotel (Hotel Abat Cisneros) is located literally at the very monastery walls. Getting to the mountain and Montserrat monastery from Barcelona is quite easy. R5 trains (see www.fgc.cat) run regularly from Plaza España (Plaça d "Espanya), where you can get to Montserrat-Aeri station. Then go up the cable car, to a height of about 1200 meters above sea level.

One more thing, definitely iconic place Catalonia is Figueres(figueres), the hometown of Salvador Dali, in which his theater-museum is located. In addition, here you can find a huge and generally well-preserved fort - Castell de Sant Ferran. You can get to Figueres on your own by train from the main Barcelona Sants station (Sants, see www.renfe.com). Travel time is about two hours.

Also deserves some attention Tarragona(Tarragona), an ancient city, now famous for its ruins of the ancient Roman period. Tarragona can be reached within an hour from Barcelona by rail or bus (see www.autocarsplana.com).

Not far from Tarragona is another interesting city - Reus(Reus) birthplace of Antoni Gaudí. Accordingly, the main attraction of Reus is the Gaudí Museum. The drive to Reus is a little longer than to Tarragona - about one and a half to two hours.

Also not far from Tarragona is monastery Poblet(Reial Monestir de Santa Maria de Poblet) see - www.poblet.cat - listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Therefore, a trip to Tarragona can be completely supplemented with either Reus or a visit to this monastery. You can get to it from Tarragona by bus (see www.vibasa.com - routes in the direction of Lleida (aka Leida in Catalan - Lleida). The town closest to the monastery is called La Espluga de Francoli (L "Espluga de Francolí It can be reached by rail both from Tarragona and directly from Barcelona. Poblet Monastery is located at a distance of about four kilometers from Esplugi, and the road to it is quite picturesque. Therefore, if you have time, it is worth walking to the monastery. Moreover, many take much longer walks from Montblanc, which is about 10 km from the monastery.This route is even more interesting and beautiful than the road from Esplugy.And the fortified city of Montblanc itself deserves to walk along it for at least a couple of hours. detailed maps and other materials on this area of ​​Catalonia can be found. In general, in this tiny corner of Spain (however, as in many others) you can easily spend more than one week. The area is very beautiful, and there are plenty of attractions here.

Beach holidays near Barcelona

Separately, we will say a few words about the possibilities of a beach holiday in the vicinity of Barcelona. In general, Barcelona itself has pretty good city beaches, but, in our opinion, preference should still be given to other places, which, I must say, are quite a few nearby.

To the north of Barcelona stretch the beaches of the Costa Brava. The center of this region is Lloret de Mar(Lloret de Mar), where it is convenient to get either directly by bus from the North Station (Estació del Nord, you can buy tickets here www.sarfa.es) or through Blanes (Blanes) - first by train, then by bus. Read more about Lloret. You can also pay attention to the town Tossa de Mar(Tossa de Mar). It is calmer than Lloret. There are, of course, other options. For example, Escala(L" Escala), next to which is the archaeological site of the Greco-Roman city of Empurion (Sitio arqueológico del puerto grecorromano de Ampurias). Here, on the Costa Brava, you can stay for a few days and travel around the surrounding towns. In addition to Empurion, you can go to the very picturesque town of Cadaques (where, by the way, there is the Dali house-museum - not to be confused with the theater-museum in Figueres), as well as look into Rosas (Roses) and Empuriabrava (Empuriabrava), a kind of Catalan Venice, though , unlike the original, interesting only from a beach point of view. To implement such a route, it will be more convenient to rent a car, but in principle summer period you can think of something with the same Sarfa buses. Finally, don't forget Girona, which is worth a trip if only for a leisurely stroll along the Onyar River.

To the south of Barcelona, ​​towards Tarragona and beyond, are the resorts of the Costa Dorada (Costa Daurada). In particular, this is Salou(Salou), known not only for its beaches, but also for the nearby popular amusement park Port Aventura. You can get here from Barcelona either by bus (details at www.autocarsplana.com) or by train (see timetable). Both sites work crookedly, but you can find information.

From Barcelona to Spain

Since Barcelona is a major center of the north-east of Spain and the most important transport hub, it is convenient to take not only short-term trips around the area, but also longer independent trips around the country in general. Moreover, in addition to ground and air, it is worth bearing in mind sea ​​transport. For example, it is quite possible to make a short cruise to the Balearic Islands (Ibiza, Mallorca, etc.). Similar routes are implemented by Balearia and Trasmediterránea.

If you turn your eyes to the mainland, then the most logical points for continuing your trip to Spain from Barcelona are cities such as Zaragoza, Valencia and Madrid. By and large, you can go to all these cities for a day, but such trips, in our opinion, do not make much sense - it will turn out to be tedious, superficial and expensive.

On the Mediterranean coast there are many large and small, famous and not so luxurious and modest resort towns. Among all this diversity, Barcelona stands apart. Bright, controversial, proud and, of course, unusually atmospheric. This is a city of geniuses, unrecognized and recognized talents, and, of course, art lovers. A city that can rightly be called resort capital Mediterranean. However, even with all this diversity and splendor, sometimes you want to travel around Spain by car, starting the route from Barcelona and discovering every day more and more new corners of Catalonia and beyond.

A nice bonus only for our readers - a discount coupon when paying for tours on the site until October 31:

• AF500guruturizma - promo code for 500 rubles for tours from 40,000 rubles
• AFTA2000Guru - promo code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Thailand from 100,000 rubles.
• AF2000TGuruturizma - promo code for 2,000 rubles. for tours to Tunisia from 100,000 rubles.

Barcelona - Lloret de Mar - Girona - Vila Sacra

Having decided to go on an independent auto tour from Barcelona, ​​many tourists first of all go to the sides of Lloret de Mar. Moreover, in one day you can have time to visit several interesting cities. Having overcome literally 70 kilometers, travelers find themselves in a completely different reality. Despite the popularity of the resort, a calm, peaceful atmosphere reigns here. In addition, there are quite a few attractions in Lloret de Mar - San Juan Castle, located on the coast and which has become calling card throughout the Costa Brava, the romantic chapel of Saint Christina, the patroness of the city, the gardens of Saint Clotilde and others. For those who decide to spend the night in Lloret de Mar, the town opens up from a completely different side. With the sunset, it seems to come to life and the streets, which seemed quiet and calm during the day, turn into one big party. You can roam between the bars until dawn. The main thing is not to overdo it with cocktails, especially if you have plans to go further in the morning.

The next stop for many travelers is Girona, which is only 35 kilometers away. It is often called the immortal city ( city ​​fortress over the years of its existence, it has managed to withstand 25 sieges, and this is really a lot!), Spanish Florence and even the city of Salvador Dali (although the museum dedicated to him is not located here, but in Firegas). Girona is not as famous and popular as its neighbor Barcelona, ​​but no less beautiful. The best way to start your acquaintance with Girona is with a walk through the Old Town. Small colorful houses of the 17th century with multi-colored facades, located on the embankment of the Onyar River, invariably fascinate and remind of the affairs of bygone days (someone compares them with Florence - and there really is some similarity), and Catalunya Square, which looks like a wide bridge and connecting the two banks, looks very unusual and even mysterious. And, of course, you can’t get past the medieval Cathedral, the construction of which began in the distant XIV century.

Vila Sacra is located just 20 kilometers from Girona. Why is it worth visiting this small cozy village? At least in order to breathe the air of the Spanish province, find out what the national cuisine is (not tourist-oriented, but really local!) And spend the night in a cozy hotel in order to go further to discover beautiful Spain with renewed vigor in the morning.

Vila Sacra - Empuriabrava - Besalu - Castelfiolite de la Roca

Curious tourists are unlikely to want to linger in Vila Sacra for a long time - a couple of hour evening walks will be enough to get around the entire village. Therefore, in the morning, after having a snack at the hotel, you can get ready for the journey - to the shores of the bohemian Empuriabrava. This resort town is often called the Spanish Venice. It is all "cut" by channels, their total length exceeds 35 kilometers - this is a world record. As in Venice, luxury villas have access to the water - locals often travel on yachts and boats. However, land transport can also be used to reach any point in Empuriabrava. In general, this is a very atmospheric town, a walk through which will surely give a lot of positive emotions and vivid impressions.

Of the attractions of the resort in the first place it is worth noting the beaches. Wide, sandy, almost endless ... In fact, there are two of them - one is well-maintained, and the second is wild. Despite the popularity of Empuriabrava, places under the sun even in the midst of tourist season enough for everyone. But lovers of architectural masterpieces, this town is likely to disappoint. It is not old, and there are no attractions as such. But in medieval Besalu, the first mention of which dates back to the 10th century, there are enough of them. It would be more correct to say that the whole city is one continuous attraction. It is small in area, only 5 square kilometers, and you can get around all the nooks and crannies in 2-3 hours. City landmarks are the El Castel castle and the bridge over the El Fluvia river. However, not only they, but also every house, every alley reminds of the former greatness.

Having enjoyed the color of bygone days, you can go further. Just 15 kilometers from Besalu is the village of Castelfollit de la Roca, very famous far beyond the borders of Spain. It is amazing in the first place because it is located right in the rock. And it was built neither more nor less than in the distant Middle Ages. Hence - a very unusual architecture and many buildings worthy of attention. Among them, the church of San Salvador and the museum located next to it stand out. From the observation deck you can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the surroundings. In general, Castelfollit de la Roca is not just colorful - it seems to be lost in time. Walking along its narrow streets, you begin to believe that a brave knight in armor, or a lady in a chic lush dress, is about to appear around the corner. Fortunately, there are very few tourists here and the stories of the guides do not disturb this mysterious atmosphere. But no matter how beautiful the village in the mountains is, it is unlikely to interest inquisitive travelers for more than 2-3 hours. Therefore, in the evening you can return to Vila Sacra in order to continue the journey in the morning and see a completely different Spain - to the Pyrenees.

Vila Sacra - Seira, Pyrenees

From Vila Sacra to Seira is not so close - about 350 kilometers. However, the roads in Spain are good and the path can be easily covered in 4-4.5 hours. Why, having decided to visit the Pyrenees, is it worth staying here? First of all, because Seira is a very cozy, colorful village where you can get acquainted with national traditions and feel the special spirit of the Spanish province. Secondly, housing here is not expensive - for the price of a room in a three-star hotel in Barcelona, ​​you can rent a two-story apartment with a mountain view. From the point of view of attractions, Seira is of no interest. They are simply not here. But the immediate surroundings deserve attention. The first place to go is the dam near the lake Estany De Cavallers. It is considered the most equipped and convenient for inspection. The building is really striking in its scale. In addition, dizzying views open up from the dam itself.

You can admire nature almost alone - getting to Estany De Cavallers is not so easy, you can do this only with your own transport. That is why there are not too many tourists here. In the dam area, there are simple places to rest (wooden tables and benches), but if you want to relax and have a picnic, then stock up on food in advance - there are no shops and other outlets here. Aiguestortes National Park is located near the lake. It is notable primarily for the fact that several routes for short trekking have been laid across the territory - the easiest one, designed for unprepared tourists, can be overcome in 2-3 hours. On the way there are swift mountain rivers, slopes rushing towards the clouds, almost abandoned bridges. Occasionally, somewhere in the distance you can see lonely houses. The landscapes are complemented by lonely walking cows with bells - almost alpine romance. Although the Pyrenean landscapes are not at all similar to the Alps. They are beautiful in their own way, bewitching and breathtaking.

Enjoying the beautiful, do not forget about returning home - from Aiguestortes to Seira is not so far, only 80 kilometers, but the road is quite difficult - a narrow serpentine. Therefore, it is better to overcome it before sunset.

Seira - Benasque

Just 22 kilometers from Seira is a place that is known to every lover of active winter holiday- Benasque ski resort. In winter, at the height of the season, there is literally “no place for an apple to fall”. But in the summer in a small town with a population of 2000 people, as if lost among the Pyrenean peaks, it is calm and quiet. There are several trekking routes of varying difficulty in the vicinity - designed for both amateurs and professionals who know a lot about hiking. The beauty of the surrounding landscapes amazes even seasoned travelers - glaciers, lakes, waterfalls ... not a single photograph conveys all this grandeur and magnificence. Benasque is not only a modern ski resort. The city has quite interesting story, so there is nothing surprising in the fact that there are many architectural sights on its streets. Among them are the palace of the Counts of Ribagorets, the houses of Casa Huste, Casa Faure and Casa Martial del Rio. As you can see, this place has always attracted representatives of the Spanish nobility. In addition, the Romanesque church of the XIII century Santa Maria Maggiore deserves attention.

The Seira-Benasque road is not too long, only 22 kilometers, but it is worth deviating just a few meters from the main route and you can find yourself in truly fabulous places. One of them is the dam at Presa de Benasque lake. By itself, it is closed to the public, but there is an observation deck nearby, which offers a beautiful panoramic view of the dam itself, a tunnel through the rock (they are quite common in the Pyrenees) and the lake. Another place that would be a real crime to drive past is Lake Escarpinosa and the Posets-Maladeta Park located in its vicinity. Many call it the most beautiful thing in the Pyrenees. In any case, lovers of nature and beautiful landscapes will not remain indifferent.

You can end this day by staying at one of the Benasque hotels (in summer, the prices for accommodation in the city are very attractive, since the resort is empty) or by returning to Seira - it will be more convenient to continue the journey from there.

Seira - Montserrat - Castelldefels

Of course, these are far from all the interesting places of the Pyrenees, but if you are limited in time, the “must see” route can be considered completed on this route. On the way to Barcelona there is an object that you simply cannot pass by. This is the spiritual center of Catalonia, the holy of holies for local residents and Catholics all over the world - Montserrat Monastery. It is known primarily for the fact that it is here that the statue of the Black Virgin of Montserrat is located. The history of the monastery began over 1000 years ago. Since then, and to this day, it is considered to be active, however, now there are not too many monks, no more than 20 people. The monastery has a small museum where you can learn about the affairs of bygone days. In terms of architecture, the monastery of Montserrat is interesting primarily because it was almost completely rebuilt in the 19th century with the participation of the famous and controversial architect Antonio Gaudi. His ideas, connected with the unity of man and infinite harmony, here he embodied really very successfully.

Montserrat Monastery is located in a very picturesque place. Several trekking routes have been laid in its vicinity - for the convenience of tourists, there are signs everywhere, so you won’t get lost for sure. In addition, they pass through the most picturesque places and are designed for tourists with different levels of physical fitness - even those who are “on you” will cope with the conquest of the simplest ones.
How much time do you plan to visit Montserrat Monastery? A few hours is enough for someone, and someone is ready to stay here forever. For those who decide to stay and spend the night, there is a hotel near the monastery. True, the prices here are not low, tourist prices.

Having completed your acquaintance with the monastery and having breathed enough of the air of the monastery, you can return to the coast. Back to Barcelona? Of course, you can do that, but there are still a lot in Catalonia beautiful places where you can end up. For example, a tiny and very cozy town of Castelldefels. It is known, first of all, for its endlessly long beach - a great place to put the final point and say goodbye to beautiful Spain. In addition, there are a huge number of restaurants with a wide variety of cuisines - from national Catalan to Japanese. Seafood dishes are considered a local "highlight". If you are lucky enough to get to Castfeldefels in July or October, then you can become a participant in a pirate feast or a chestnut festival, the fame of these events “spreads” throughout Catalonia.

Of course, this is not the only "Spanish" route that you can take to travel by car from Barcelona. Catalonia and neighboring regions are rich in attractions, natural parks and all kinds of interesting places. Spain is many-sided, colorful and invariably hospitable. It opens to each traveler in its own way, but every tourist will certainly leave a piece of his soul here.

Cost of visiting: entrance to the monastery is free, ticket to the museum - €7, funicular to Mount Sant Jeroni - €12 round trip, funicular to Santa Cova cave - €5 round trip. You can climb the mountain and go down to the cave from the monastery on foot, it's free.

2. Cardona, Solsona and Artigas Gardens

Few have heard of the Artigas Gardens, designed by Antonio Gaudí, outside the country (unlike the Sagrada Familia, another creation of a genius), but guides and travelers in love with Catalonia strongly recommend visiting here and call them a "hidden masterpiece" and "secret gem" . On the way from Barcelona, ​​we suggest looking into Cardona and Solsona.

Things to do in Cardona:

1. visit the fortress, the construction of which began in the 9th century - the main attraction of the town and one of the most beautiful castles in Europe;
2. descend into a salt mine 86 meters deep. The tour in English is held once a day, but you can safely sign up for any group - you will be given an audio guide for free;
3. stroll through the Old Town, which was built in the 11th century. Look into one of the entrances of a residential building, where the width of the flight of stairs barely allows two adults to pass.