Explore the Best Day Trips from Barcelona by Car
Barcelona, known as a city of size, beauty, vitality, magic and difference, is a brilliant place to go with family, friends, partners and solo travellers. But if you want to cross the city bounds and explore the surrounding areas, a day out by car is the way to go. Scenic drives and quaint locations just a short drive away, get to see the beautiful variety of Catalonia. In this guide we will give you some of the top day trips from Barcelona by car, so be sure to do the most of your visit.
1. Montserrat
Begin your day trip to the west of Barcelona by visiting Montserrat, one of the most individual mountains ranges due to its characteristic crunch and a Benedictine abbey near its peaks. The drive itself is equally stunning, and when you arrive, you can then catch a cable car or funicular railway to explore the monastery’s impressive interior. Don’t look for the chance to hear the heavenly voice of Montserrat Boys’ Choir.
2. Sitges
If you’re after a beachside chill-out day, Sitges is in order. Only 35 km. from Barcelona city, this pretty coastal town stages a renowned film festival and its beaches know for hosting by night elegant and relaxed variable events. Go for a casual walk along the promenade, meander through old town’s narrow streets and arrive at one of the eateries catering for you to taste good things from the region.
3. Girona
For history enthusiasts, a visit to Girona for a day is de rigueur. Situated 100km of Barcelona’s north east, this medieval city boasts exceptionally preserved Jewish quarter, a massive cathedral and impressive crumbling ancient walls. Stroll along Onyar River, lazes across beautiful bridges and pots the little streets of the old town. Don’t miss out on visiting the Game of Thrones filming locations either, as Girona made plenty of appearances in season six of the hit TV show.
4. Costa Brava
Spending the day away from Barcelona’s bustle, and visiting Costa Brava is an ideal way to discover it. Drive north east along the coast to find charming villages, secluded beaches, and bright blue waters. Visit the quaint Cadaqués, famous for its white painted houses and ties with artists like Salvador Dalí. Alternatively discover the stunning scenery of the Cap de Creus Natural Park, where dramatic cliffs meet crystal-clear Mediterranean waters.
5. Tarragona
Descubre el tiempo pasado con un viaje de un día a Tarragona, la ciudad cai nacional que queda estable de forma tectónica en los monumentos romanos. Situated about 100 km southwest of Barcelona, Tarragona boasts a stunning Roman amphitheater, Roman city walls in good condition and an archaeological museum. Walk through the old town’s narrow streets, explore the beautiful Tarragona Cathedral or enjoy the nearby beaches dripping in gold sand. Forget nothing, eat at the local specialty: the famous paella de mar, from Tarragona.
6. Vic
To experience the essence of Catalan culture and charm, look to the town of Vic, a medieval-style town renowned for its diverse range of markets and traditional Catalonia. See the impressive Roman temple, wander through the cobble stone streets of the old town, and get swept up in the lively essence of the fresh from he market which showcases the local produce, crafts, and regional specialties.
7. Figueres
Travel north of Barcelona to Figueres, birthplace of the world famous surrealist Salvador Dalí. The pièce de résistance of this day tour is the Dalí Theatre-Museum, an Italianate palace he architectured himself. Get transported to a world of fantasy as you go through Dalí’s works and amaze at the unconventional architecture of the museum. Then, take a beautiful walk through the pretty streets of Figueres, where you can savor local specialties.
These are just some of the multitude of day trips you can make by car from Barcelona. Make sure to plan ahead and check road closures, traffic updates and to have a map or navigation device with you. With every trip you’ll discover new views, learn more about the Catalan culture and make unforgettable memories.
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