Best Day Tours from Barcelona

While Barcelona is full of wonders, its surroundings offer a wealth of natural beauty, historical treasures, and cultural gems — all just a short ride away. With a day tour from Barcelona, you can experience medieval villages, mountain monasteries, coastal resorts, or even world-famous wineries.

Whether you love hiking, history, beaches, or food, there’s a perfect excursion waiting just beyond the city.

Montserrat – Mountains, Monastery & Spiritual Views

Montserrat is Catalonia’s most iconic natural site. Just an hour from Barcelona, its jagged mountain peaks shelter a 1,000-year-old monastery, home to the revered Black Madonna. Whether you want to explore the Benedictine abbey, hike panoramic trails, or hear the famous boys' choir, this is an unforgettable escape.

• Travel options: Bus, train + cogwheel, or guided minivan
• Often includes: Monastery visit, cable car ride, hiking, liqueur tasting
• Popular tour: Montserrat Half-Day Guided Visit with Transport

Girona – Medieval Charm & Game of Thrones Vibes

Step back in time in Girona, a perfectly preserved medieval city just 90 minutes from Barcelona. Wander along its ancient walls, cross colorful bridges over the Onyar river, explore the Jewish Quarter, and visit the cathedral made famous by Game of Thrones.

•  Ideal for: History buffs, architecture lovers, photographers
•  Often includes: Walking tour, free time for lunch, small group transport
• Recommended: Girona & Costa Brava Full-Day Tour

 Costa Brava – Hidden Coves & Coastal Towns

The Costa Brava is Catalonia’s rugged northern coastline, known for its turquoise waters, fishing villages, and unspoiled coves. A day trip here feels like a vacation within a vacation — relax on the beach, snorkel, or explore whitewashed towns like Calella de Palafrugell or Tossa de Mar.

Perfect for: Summer travelers, nature lovers, beach fans
Often includes: Scenic drives, boat rides, time to swim or eat seaside
Best pick: Costa Brava Small-Group Tour with Boat Cruise

Penedès Wine Region – Cava, Vineyards & Tastings

Escape to the countryside with a wine tour to Penedès, the home of Cava (Catalan sparkling wine). Visit traditional wineries, stroll through vineyards, and enjoy tastings paired with local snacks. An ideal choice for wine enthusiasts and relaxed travelers.

• Duration: Half-day or full-day
• Often includes: 2–3 wineries, cava and red wine tastings, private transport
• Tour suggestion: Penedès Cava & Wine Tasting from Barcelona

 Tarragona & Sitges – Roman Ruins and Coastal Glamour

This combo day trip brings together two very different vibes. Tarragona offers impressive Roman ruins, an amphitheater by the sea, and a medieval old town. Sitges, by contrast, is a lively beach town full of boutiques, cafes, and Art Deco charm.

Great for: Culture, variety, and a bit of beach time
Travel: Small group or private van
Top choice: Roman Tarragona & Sitges Day Tour

 How to Choose Your Day Tour

• Most tours last between 6 to 10 hours‍‍‍
• Available in small groups or private formats
• Departures typically from central Barcelona (near Plaça Catalunya or Sants)️
• Always check weather for outdoor tours (Costa Brava, Montserrat hikes)
• Tours are offered in English, Spanish, and other languages

Looking for more ideas? See all our Barcelona tours here — walking, biking, sailing, private … find the experience that suits you best.