The best day trips from Barcelona

Barcelona sits between the mountains and the sea, with Roman ruins, medieval towns and some of the Mediterranean's prettiest coastline all within two hours. These are the easiest day trips without a car.

Journey times are approximate. Check Rodalies, FGC and Renfe timetables before you travel.

Montserrat

Getting there: FGC train from Plaça d'Espanya (about an hour), then the rack railway or cable car up.

A mountain of strange, saw-toothed rock formations with a Benedictine monastery clinging to its side. Come for the Black Madonna, the boys' choir (the Escolania, which sings on most days — check times) and the walking trails up to the peaks. Combined tickets cover the train and the climb.

Sitges

Getting there: Rodalies train from Sants or Passeig de Gràcia (35–40 minutes).

A whitewashed seaside town with a lovely promenade, a string of beaches and a famously lively nightlife. It hosts a huge Carnival in February and an international fantasy film festival in October. Ideal for a lazy beach day.

Girona

Getting there: high-speed train from Sants (under 40 minutes).

A beautifully preserved medieval city with colourful houses along the river Onyar, a walk along the old city walls, one of Europe's best-preserved Jewish quarters and a cathedral reached by a dramatic flight of steps. Fans will recognise several filming locations. In May, the city fills with flowers for Temps de Flors.

Tarragona

Getting there: train from Sants (around an hour).

Once a major Roman capital, Tarragona has an amphitheatre overlooking the sea, the remains of a circus and a fine old town. Pair it with the beach for a full day.

Figueres (Dalí)

Getting there: high-speed train to Figueres Vilafant (under an hour).

The Dalí Theatre-Museum is as surreal as you'd hope — designed by the artist himself and his final resting place. Book ahead. Add the seaside village of Cadaqués if you have a car or take the bus.

The Costa Brava

Getting there: buses from Barcelona's Estació del Nord to Tossa de Mar, Lloret and other towns (around 1.5–2 hours), or hire a car.

Rocky coves, pine trees and clear water. Tossa de Mar's walled old town above the beach is a highlight; Calella de Palafrugell and Begur are prettier but harder to reach without a car. Best as an overnight trip.

Penedès wine country

Getting there: Rodalies train to Sant Sadurní d'Anoia (under an hour).

The home of cava, Spain's sparkling wine. Many cellars offer tours and tastings within walking distance of the station; book ahead.

Go with a group

English-speaking communities in Barcelona regularly organise hikes, beach days and trips out of the city — an easy way to explore if you're travelling solo. See what's on.