As a resident of Barcelona, I know how electric my city can be — but every now and then, I want something a little quieter, greener, or just…different.
These day trips don’t require a car or a huge budget—just a curious spirit. From mountain peaks to medieval towns, here are my favorite magical escapes that prove the adventure doesn’t end at Barcelona’s city limits.
Sitges – Color, Charm, and Coastal Freedom
- Why Go: Sitges is the baby beach town of Santorini and the Italian Riviera. This seaside town, just under an hour from the city, is bursting with life—rainbow mopeds, sun-drenched streets, and spontaneous live music echoing through colorful alleys. Rich in history and modernly sophisticated, it’s a rare mix of old-world elegance and fresh, forward energy. It’s also one of Spain’s most LGBTQ+ friendly places, full of art, style, and seriously good food.
- Vibe: Unapologetically vibrant and incredibly peaceful. Think: flipflops and linen with a gelato in hand and nowhere to be.
- Must Do:
- Swim at Platja de la Ribera or one of the nearby coves. The water’s warm enough and wildly refreshing.
- Visit the Church of Sant Bartomeu & Santa Tecla—perched above the sea and iconic as ever. A true Sitges landmark.
- Wander the old town—full of boutiques, palm trees, and art galleries.
- Catch a street performance—live music is everywhere, from Spanish guitarists to indie bands that belong on your Spotify.
- Who Best For: Romantics, creatives, families.
- Best Tips:
- Train ride = part of the magic. Sit on the left side going south for Mediterranean views that make your jaw drop.
- Perfect day trip in all seasons, but especially electric during Pride or Carnival.
- Getting There: Take the R2 Sud train from Estació de França, Passeig de Gràcia, or Sants (~35–45 minutes).
- Cost: ~€8–10 / ~$9–11 USD round trip.
Are you ready to explore off the beaten path? Let us inspire you!
Montserrat – Mountain Hikes, Monastery, and a Little Magic
- Why Go: Montserrat is more than just a mountain—it’s a spiritual reset. The Benedictine monastery, built into jagged cliffs, is an absolute marvel. It’s also where you can hear L’Escolania, one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious boys’ choirs.
- Vibe: Spiritual, adventurous, and cinematic. A perfect escape from city life.
- Must Do:
- Hike to the Sant Jeroni cross—the highest point in Montserrat with sweeping views across Catalonia.
- Visit the Madonna (La Moreneta). Touch her hand in the basilica—a sacred experience for many.
- Watch the Montserrat history video in the local gift shop—it’s short, moving, and worth it.
- Try the rainbow cheeses and snack booths along the main street—colorful, delicious, and perfect for a picnic.
- Who Best For: Hikers, soul-searchers, and moto romantics.
- Best Tips:
- Take a motorcycle up if you can—those winding roads are best experienced on two wheels.
- Time your visit to hear the choir sing—prepare for goosebumps.
- Getting There: Take the R5 train from Plaça Espanya to Montserrat-Aeri (~1 hour), then transfer via the Aeri de Montserrat cable car or Cremallera funicular.
- Cost: ~€20–25 / ~$23–28 USD combo ticket
SheBuysTravel Tip: Feeling bold? Check out Saltamos España for skydiving near Montserrat—because why just visit the mountain when you can jump above it?
Girona – Medieval Walls and Game of Thrones Vibes
- Why Go: Girona feels like stepping back in time. Think stone bridges, orange-hued buildings, and winding medieval streets with serious fantasy energy. Game of Thrones fans—this one’s for you.
- Vibe: Dreamy, walkable, and slightly eerie. Every corner looks like a movie set—and in some cases, it was.
- Must Do:
- Walk Passeig de la Muralla at sunset—an ancient wall with golden-hour views of the entire city.
- Stop at Xocolateria L’Antiga for xurros and thick hot chocolate—an indulgent must.
- Cross the Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles)—bright red and very photo-friendly.
- Who Best For: History buffs, solo wanderers, and fantasy fans.
- Best Tips:
- Travel early, stay late—the light changes everything.
- Bring a camera. Girona knows her angles.
- Getting There: Take the train from Barcelona Sants to Girona (38–80 minutes depending on the train type).
- Cost: ~€10–20 / ~$11–23 USD one way
Begur – Coastal Charm Without the Crowds
Just 2.5 hours from Barcelona by bus, Begur—with its winding roads, dramatic views, and hillside homes spilling onto beaches—reminds this California girl of the Hollywood Hills.
- Why Go: Wild mountain terrain with turquoise coastlines, perfect beaches, and views of the Medes Islands.
- Vibe: Laidback, floral, and breezy—especially magical with spring’s hillside blooms.
- Must Do:
- Swim in the clear, calm waters of Platja Fonda or Sa Tuna Beach.
- Take a light uphill walk to Begur Castle for panoramic views of the town and sea.
- Light a candle in the charming town church of Iglesia de Sant Pere de Begur.
- Who Best For: Outdoor enthusiasts.
- Best Tips:
- Go in spring (April–early June) for sunshine, wildflowers, and fewer tourists.
- For extra magic, wander through Begur’s hillside neighborhoods.
- Getting There: From Estació del Nord, take a bus to Palafrugell, then a short local ride to Begur (~€25–30 / ~$28–34 USD round trip).
Tossa de Mar – Cliffs, Castles, and Cafés Above the Sea
- Why Go: Tossa de Mar delivers beaches, views, and medieval charm—all in one town. This seaside escape has a little bit of everything: cliffside trails, castle ruins, and beach cafés that feel straight out of a storybook.
- Vibe: Seaside fairytale meets slow-living escape. Perfect for those who like their beach days with a side of history.
- Must Do:
- Hike to the lighthouse. The coastal trail offers jaw-dropping views and castle sightings along the way.
- Wander the Old Town (Vila Vella)—cobbled alleys, stone arches, and medieval towers await.
- Sip café con leche on a seaside terrace—there’s no wrong view.
- Pack a beach picnic or grab seafood from a local café with cliffside seating.
- Who Best For: Photographers, families, and slow travelers.
- Best Tips:
- Bring walking shoes and a swimsuit. You’ll want to hike first, then dive right in.
- Even cloudy days feel cinematic, but sunshine makes the turquoise glow next-level.
- Getting There: Take a direct bus from Estació del Nord in Barcelona to Tossa de Mar (~1.5 hours).
- Cost: ~€12–15 / ~$14–17 USD one way.
Andorra – Snowy Peaks and Passport Stamps
- Why Go: Andorra is a whole new country tucked between Spain and France—perfect for a snowy day trip from Barcelona. With world-class ski resorts, stunning mountain scenery, and duty-free shopping, this micro-nation is ideal for winter lovers or anyone craving the thrill of a spontaneous border crossing.
- Vibe: Crisp, peaceful, and unique. Like Switzerland’s little cousin that still lets you be the main character.
- Must Do:
- Ski or snowboard at Grandvalira Resort—it’s massive, scenic, and surprisingly crowd-free in April.
- Warm up with hot chocolate in Andorra la Vella—it hits differently post-slope.
- Visit Caldea spa if you’re staying overnight—one of Europe’s largest thermal wellness centers.
- Browse the duty-free shops—great for deals on beauty, tech, and snacks.
- Who Best For: Solo adventurers, passport collectors, and anyone craving snow-capped solitude.
- Best Tips:
- Passport Required: Bring it—you’re crossing a border, and yes, sometimes they do check.
- Layer up and go early. Even if it’s warm in Barcelona, Andorra holds onto its chill.
- The mountain bus ride is part of the magic—and the snow-day shopping spree isn’t bad either.
- Getting There: Take a direct bus (ALSA or Andbus) from Barcelona Sants or Estació del Nord to Andorra la Vella (~3–4 hours).
- Cost: ~€30–40 / ~$34–45 USD round trip
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