Day Trips from Barcelona: Explore Catalonia’s Gems
Barcelona is the brightly colored capital of the Autonomous Region of Catalonia situated far beyond Madrid in the province of Catalonia along the beautiful Mediterranean coast. Among the many activities that a traveler could indulge in when in Barcelona, it is always advisable for them to take day trips around other nearby places that are of interest. Some of the famous places to visit in Catalonia include the Mediterranean sea tourist routes, white villages near the sea, Costa Brava, Emporda, Gava, Penedès, Priorat, Terra Alta, Solsonès, Cadi-Moi, Tarragona, Lleida, and the Pyrenees. This article is aimed at sharing several suggestions where tourists can visit within one day during their stay in Barcelona to savor what the Catalan region has to offer.
1. Montserrat – A Majestic Mountain Retreat
It would also be specifically relevant to people who are searching for the scenic beauty and inner harmony. Montserrat is a mountain range of precipitate that is very close to Barcelona and has the famous Benedictine Monastery known as Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey situated on one of the spurs. Go for a aerial tram to the monastery, spend some time in one of the most picturesque church in Europe and enjoy the performance of Montserrat Boys’ Choir. People should also explore the other trails that are present in the area in order to be able to walk around the picturesque views of the Catalan countryside.
2. Sitges – Sun, Sea, and Serenity
If you want to take a walk along the sunny coast, Sitges is a picturesque town 40 minutes’ drive from Barcelona. Sitges has quite a lively gay community and boasts an impressive gay pride film festival coupled with beautiful sandy beaches, meandering streets, and number of cafes and restaurants. Whether you want to sunbath or have good seafood, do shopping or sightseeing in the many art galleries of Sitges, there is something for everyone.
3. Girona – A Medieval Gem
Take a trip back to the Middle Ages as you walk through Girona’s gates with the old walls, the stone pavements and the preserved Jewish quarter. Girona is a town with much history, beautifully preserved buildings and a very interesting restaurants and food offer, situated one hour north from Barcelona. Visit the Cathedral of Girona or walk up Onyar River, if you are a fan of Game of Thrones, it is worth paying attention to its filming places.
4. Tarragona – Roman Ruins and Mediterranean Bliss
History lovers will surely have a great time in Tarragon. This indeed is a coastal town, which is roughly a one-hour car drive from Barcelona and was once the capital of Roman Spain. Visit the ancient theater and the authentic Roman theatre that was well preserved for people to visit even today. As such there are certain attractions, for instance one can swim in the beautiful clear Mediterranean waters or have a feel of the famous local dish known as “xató,” a Catalan salad.
5. Costa Brava – Pristine Beaches and Hidden Coves
Costa Brava will give natural lovers a thrilling experience in a single day trip. Located at the eastern part of Catalonia this region is marked by jagged cliffs, gorgeous sheers messing bays and transparent sea. Relax on picturesque towns like Cadaqués and Tossa to Mar, do some hiking and have a picnic on the trails of Cap de Creus Natural Park, and swim in the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
6. Figueres – Surrealist Paradise
Drawing the line on the tour of Catalonia, it would be a great pity not to visit the town of Figueres – the birthplace of the famous artist Salvador Dalí. Only one hour train ride away from Barcelona, there is a town called Figueres, which houses the unbelievable Dalí Theatre-Museum. Discover the entising artworks of Dalí, experience the dreamlike artwork of the artist, and experience the enchanting sculptures of the giant eggs forming the museum’s roof.
Conclusion
Barcelona is an excellent starting point and a visual treat for the multiple sights present in the Catalonian region. Barcelona offers so many options for the day tours that everyone with interest or passion in nature, history, culture and beauty of the countryside and its beach, are available. Well, put your sunscreen on, take out the map and have your vacation of a lifetime seeking the true gems that are just a few steps away from Barcelona!
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