The surroundings of Barcelona are rich in historical cities, picturesque villages, stunning natural areas, and beautiful beaches. Many of these places are perfect for a day trip from Barcelona. They are especially great if you’re staying in Barcelona for a longer period and want to explore more of Catalonia or if you’re looking for a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. Moreover, you can easily explore the surroundings of Barcelona at your own pace by train, bus, or rental car.
Are you in Barcelona and want to go on a day trip to explore the region? Here are the best tips for discovering the surroundings of Barcelona.
What to See Around Barcelona
Barcelona is privileged in its location: by the Mediterranean Sea, surrounded by mountains and rivers, with the stunning Catalan landscape behind it and the famous coasts to the left and right. Just an hour or an hour and a half from Barcelona, there’s plenty to see and do, from fascinating museums and hidden ruins to sleepy villages and countless natural and cultural wonders.
The places below are easily accessible by public transport (and, of course, by car) and are great for a fun day trip while visiting Barcelona. This way, you can also discover the surrounding areas of Barcelona and the cultural heritage of the autonomous region of Catalonia.
Excursions Around Barcelona
Certain places should definitely be on your to-do list when exploring the surroundings of Barcelona. Montserrat is an important pilgrimage site for Catalans, Colònia GĂźell offers another masterpiece by GaudĂ, and the Collserola mountain range provides breathtaking views over Barcelona.
Montserrat
Montserrat is a pilgrimage site for Catalans and the cradle of Catalan culture. On this unique mountain (actually a mountain massif), youâll find a Benedictine monastery, a Black Madonna (a black statue of Mary), and a boys’ choir performance. The surrounding area is filled with numerous hiking trails and impressive viewpoints.
Museu DalĂ
In Figueres, you’ll find the house and museum of Salvador DalĂ, one of the most famous surrealist artists in the worldâa must for any art lover. To learn more about DalĂâs work and life, you can also visit his house and workshop in Portlligat and the Gala DalĂ Castle in La Pera. Together with the museum in Figueres, these sites form the “DalĂ Triangle.”
Colònia Gßell
This old textile colony, the largest in Catalonia and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, also showcases GaudĂâs work. He was commissioned to build a church, but only the crypt was completed.
Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya
F1 and MotoGP fans might already be familiar with this racetrack. The Circuit de Catalunya is a fantastic place for motorsport enthusiasts, where visitors can take a guided tour and see all the famous spots they recognize from TV.
Beautiful Cities and Villages
Culture lovers should take a trip to one of the many cities and villages around Barcelona. This is a great way to experience Catalan culture, its industrial and maritime heritage, and the many hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Tarragona
Tarragona was the capital of Hispania during the Roman era, which is still evident in its numerous historical structures. The well-preserved old town, the cathedral, and the beach are other great reasons to visit Tarragona.
Girona
This stunning medieval city in northern Catalonia is home to one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters. It boasts beautiful museums, monuments, and a charming old town perfect for strolling.
Reus
The modernist city of Reus is a must-visit for all GaudĂ fans. You can visit the birthplace of the famous architect and the GaudĂ Centre, as well as many modernist-style buildings by various architects.
Badalona
Located on the other side of the Besòs River, Badalona is known for its power plant with three chimneys, the AnĂs del Mono liqueur factory, and its long, beautiful beach, which is often quieter than Barcelonaâs crowded beaches.
Sant Cugat del Vallès
Beyond the Collserola hills, Sant Cugat del Vallès is worth visiting for its monastery and modernist wine cellar. If you’re traveling with kids, check out the coolest slide park ever: Parc TurĂł de Can Mates.
Esplugues del Llobregat
Esplugues stands out for its well-preserved old town, featuring the Church of Santa Magdalena, picturesque streets like Carrer de Montserrat, and old farmhouses. Sant Pere MĂ rtir Mountain and Parc de Can Vidalet are two other major attractions.
Sabadell
This Barcelona suburb was once called the “Catalan Manchester” due to its industrial heritage. Highlights include the central market hall, the town hall, Rambla de Sabadell, the Museu del Gas, Sant Fèlix Church, Parc Catalunya, the Torre de lâAigua water tower, the old Buxeda Vell factory, and the impressive Can Feu Castle in the outskirts.
Terrassa
Another city with a strong industrial past and many modernist buildings is Terrassa. Among its many factory sites, the Bòbila Almirall stands out, featuring the world’s tallest external spiral staircase according to the Guinness Book of Records. Other highlights include the medieval structures of La Seu dâĂgara, the former Societat General dâElectricitat, Masia Freixa, the town hall, and the Mercat Municipal de la Independència.
Castelldefels
This coastal town, just a stoneâs throw from Barcelona, is a popular destination for a day trip. Whether you want to enjoy water sports, relax on the beach, or hang out at a beach bar, Castelldefels offers plenty of options for a fun getaway.
Sitges
This former fishing village is a beloved retreat for Barcelonians looking for a day of relaxation. Besides its stunning beaches, Sitges also boasts a beautiful old town filled with charming shops, making it a fantastic place to explore.
Vilassar de Mar
Breathe in the maritime past and stroll through the streets of this old fishing village, which also boasts many modernist buildings from the time when the indianos returned from America.
Cultural Heritage Around Barcelona
As an autonomous region, Catalonia has many unique traditions, its own language (Catalan), gastronomy, and identity. Those who wish to immerse themselves in Catalan culture should visit one of the cultural towns below, where there is much to experience.
Vic
This town has one of the most beautiful central squares (Plaça Major), where a lively market is held every Saturday with farmers from the entire region. Highly recommended if you want to dive into Catalan culture.
Montblanc
Montblanc is a stunning medieval village known for the legend of Sant Jordi and the dragon. An idyllic place in the mountains where you can directly engage with Catalan culture.
Valls
Those interested in the world of castellers, the Catalan human towers, should visit Valls, the city of human towers. Valls is also famous for its calçots, a type of spring onion eaten in winter during the so-called ‘calçotades.’ During the Gran Festa de la Calçotada, the squares of Valls turn into massive barbecue sites where you can eat unlimited calçots.
Sant SadurnĂ d’Anoia
The village of Sant SadurnĂ d’Anoia is the largest cava producer in Catalonia. Cava is a sparkling wine made from Penedès grape varieties. One of the most famous cava brands, Freixenet, is produced here. A tour of the factory allows you to learn about the cava-making process and the brand’s history. There are also numerous other wineries in the village offering tastings and tours. A great way to explore this region is by taking a bike tour through the vineyards!
Vilafranca del Penedès
Another town rich in culture is Vilafranca del Penedès, known for its wine production, human towers, and regional dish, xató. This traditional Catalan salad combines fish and local vegetables with a nutty sauce.
Canet de Mar
This fishing village houses a beautiful collection of modernist buildings by architects such as Josep Puig i Cadafalch, LluĂs Domènech i Montaner, and Pere Domènech i Roura. The industrial past is also visible in the old remaining factories, such as FĂ brica Sussagna and FĂ brica Jover.
Berga
This inland Catalan town is best known for La Patum, a festival recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage event, featuring fire, fireworks, and the famous Catalan giants and dragons.
MĂłn Sant Benet
MĂłn Sant Benet is a thousand-year-old monastery considered the best-preserved monastery in Catalonia.
Natural Areas Around Barcelona
The surroundings of Barcelona are rich not only in cultural and historical heritage but also in nature, from the Serra de Collserola that encircles Barcelona to the stunning natural parks in the nearby mountains and the beautiful vineyards in the countryside. Nature lovers can follow the many Via Verde routes, special hiking trails marked with green paths (tip: these routes can also be done by bike!).
Collserola Natural Park
The mountain range surrounding Barcelona, Collserola, hosts not only an amusement park and a beautiful residential area but also a vast natural park of 8,000 hectares. A perfect place for hiking and enjoying nature with breathtaking views over Barcelona.
PantĂ de Vallvidrera
Hidden in the Collserola hills lies this man-made lake, once used to supply water to Vallvidrera residents. Now, it is a nature reserve home to various animals, including birds, fish, and even turtles! Bring a picnic basket and enjoy a day in nature.
Parc del Riu Llobregat
Just outside Barcelona, this nature park along the banks of the Llobregat River is perfect for walking or cycling. The area features several noteworthy sites, such as the rocky waterfalls of Riera de Corbera, the Delta del Llobregat nature reserve, and the historical Roman baths of Sant Boi. A great picnic spot is Picnic de la Riera Pahissa.
Parc de la Serralada de Marina
The mountain range of Santa Coloma i Gramenet offers stunning hiking trails, ancient Iberian settlements like Puig Castellar and TurĂł de les Maleses, dolmens (megalithic tombs), and small chapels, all with fantastic panoramic views.
Costa del Garraf
The mountainous coast of El Garraf is a breathtakingly natural area where you can also relax on the beach! The picturesque fishermen’s houses in the small bay of El Garraf complete the scene.
Parc Natural del Montseny
El Montseny is a beautiful forested area near the city, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, ideal for hiking or cycling. Its highest peak, TurĂł de l’Home, can even be seen from some spots in Barcelona!
Vineyards in El Penedès
El Penedès is Catalonia’s top wine-producing region, filled with vineyards and wineries offering tastings and workshops. The Museu de les Cultures del Vi de Catalunya in Vilafranca del Penedès provides an excellent introduction to Catalan wine culture. Combine your vineyard visit with a bike tour!
Costa del Maresme
Escaping the city for the beach is easy by train. The R1 train line quickly takes you to the beaches of El Masnou, Ocata, PremiĂ de Mar, Vilassar de Mar, Arenys de Mar, MatarĂł, Canet de Mar, Sant Pol de Mar, Calella, Pineda de Mar, Santa Susanna, Malgrat de Mar, and Blanes.
Costa Brava
The rugged Costa Brava is not accessible by train, but you can reach it from Blanes station, where a local bus takes you to your final destination. Another option is taking a bus from Barcelona or joining an organized tour to visit the regionâs highlights.
Costa Dorada
The Costa Dorada, south of Barcelona, is easily reachable by train. The R2 line takes you to beautiful beaches in Comarruga, Calafell, Cubelles, Sitges, and Castelldefels. The R16 line reaches the beaches of LâAmetlla de Mar, Mont-roig del Camp, Cambrils, Salou, Altafulla-Tamarit, and Torredembarra.
Tip: Donât miss the village of Roc de Sant GaietĂ , a unique enclave with white houses, beautiful patios, and countless picturesque corners.
Child-Friendly Attractions Around Barcelona
There are plenty of fun activities and attractions for children in the immediate vicinity of Barcelona. Perfect for a great day out with the kids!
Parc de Can Mercader
The main park of CornellĂ del Llobregat is a fantastic spot for children. They can ride a miniature train through the park or visit the Museu de les MatemĂ tiques, a museum that approaches mathematics from a practical and playful perspective.
Catalunya en Miniatura
A miniature park where kids can explore the highlights and most beautiful landmarks of Catalonia in a fun and interactive way. In addition, both young and old can enjoy the adjacent adventure park, where they can climb pine tree trunks or zip-line through the air.
Parc Arqueològic Mines de GavĂ
The most important knowledge center about Neolithic Catalonia, showcasing how prehistoric miners lived, what objects and tools they used, and even featuring a 50-meter-deep artificial mine visitors can walk through.
Museu de la Ciència i de la Tècnica de Catalunya
This is a fascinating museum to visit with children. Its mission is to promote Catalonia’s scientific, technical, and industrial heritage. One of the museum’s highlights is the vaulted roof of the old Vapor Aymerich, Amat i Jover factory hall.
Museu del Ferrocarril de Catalunya
Train enthusiasts will love the Railway Museum of Catalonia in Vilanova i la GeltrĂş. With an extensive collection of old railway artifacts, tracks, and locomotives, visitors can learn all about the history of railroads in Catalonia.
Port Aventura
The most exciting theme park in Catalonia! Young and old can enjoy thrilling and fun rides, including roller coasters, carousels, and bumper cars. The park also offers spectacular shows, a variety of restaurants, souvenir shops, and even a hotel for overnight stays! Next to Port Aventura, youâll find Ferrari Land, a theme park dedicated to the Ferrari motorsports brand, and Costa Caribe, Port Aventuraâs water park.
Illa Fantasia
With over 22 slides and three large pools, the water attractions at Illa Fantasia are a fantastic way to spend a summer day. The park also features a large picnic area, various restaurants, an ice cream parlor, and even a supermarket!
Parc Francesc MaciĂ
Located in Malgrat de Mar, this unique park feels like stepping into Alice in Wonderland. With oversized donuts, mushrooms, and other whimsical objects, itâs the perfect place for children to play for hours.
Tips for a Day Out in Barcelona
1. Mind the Transport Zones
If youâre traveling outside Barcelona using public transport, be aware of the different zones. The farther you travel, the more expensive it becomes. However, prices are still quite reasonable compared to public transport in the Netherlands. A Zone 1 metro card, such as the T-Casual, Hola Barcelona Travel Card, or Barcelona Card, allows you to travel quite farâfrom nearby cities like LâHospitalet de Llobregat and Badalona to areas in El Vallès (behind Collserola), such as Cerdanyola del Vallès and Sant Cugat del Vallès. If you travel beyond Zone 1, you will need to buy separate tickets for your route.
2. Take the Train
If you donât have a car, the train is the most convenient way to explore the area around Barcelona. As long as you avoid peak hours, trains in Catalonia are always a comfortable and highly efficient mode of transport. However, not all places are easily accessible by trainâyou may need to take a local bus for certain destinations. Cities like Badalona, Esplugues del Llobregat, CornellĂ del Llobregat, Sant Joan DespĂ, and Sant Just Desvern can also be reached by tram from Barcelona.
3. Rent a Car
For those who want to explore Barcelonaâs surroundings and the rest of Catalonia at their own pace, renting a car is the best option. This way, you are not dependent on train and bus schedules and can stop wherever you like.
4. Buy Your Tickets in Advance
Some museums and attractions can get very busy, especially on weekends. Itâs highly recommended to plan your visit in advance and buy tickets online whenever possible. This helps avoid long queues, giving you more time to enjoy your trip.
