There are many places beyond Barcelona city limits: National parks, reserves, and mountains to explore, a varied coastline, medieval villages, archaeological sites, and lively coastal towns. Some are close enough for day visits, but if you want to escape the pace of the city, all offer a lot more beyond the top attractions.
By train
Girona
The provincial capital to the north is easily accessible by AVE (fast train) in just 40 minutes. The old part of the city is well-conserved, easily accessible, and well-worth exploring. Part of the Game of Thrones was shot in the old quarter. Climb up to the cathedral and enjoy great views over the city, or walk along a section of the old wall. There is a beautiful iron bridge across the river which was designed by Gustave Eiffel, known as the Pont de les Peixateries Velles.
Tarragona
The provincial capital to the south was known as Tarraco in Roman times, home to some well-conserved archaeological sites which are easy to visit. Take the regional train to Tarragona (1hr 15 mins). The city is on the coast and the views from the amphitheatre over the coast are fantastic.
Make sure you explore the old town and stroll to the end of the Rambla to enjoy the views over the Mediterranean.
Montserrat
Located about 60 kilometres from Barcelona, this is a great day trip. For those wanting to do some hiking, you will need to plan ahead to make the most of your day.
The mountain has a special spiritual significance for the Catalans and the Benedictine Monastery has been established for centuries.
There are two train services that will get you to the foot of the mountain, where you can take the rack train to the monastery. Full details on timetables and ticketing options can be checked on the official site.
Sitges
Just a 40 minute commuter train ride to the south of Barcelona is the beautiful coastal town of Sitges.
Every year Sitges hosts a film festival in October. This draws in the film crowd for a few days, but the city is popular year round with locals and international visitors alike.
For many people it is enough just to take the train down, wander through the town down to the beach, walk along the beach front, find a place to eat and relax on the beach. If you stay overnight or come in the evening Sitges has plenty of bars and a great nightlife.
https://sitgesfilmfestival.com/en
VisitSitges, tourism and news of Sitges
Vic
A trip to Vic allows you to step back in time and explore a provincial capital with centuries of history, from the Roman Temple to the Gothic Quarter as well as Modernisme, all found within a small radius of the old city.
Head to the Plaza Mayor and then follow the Tourist Route signs which guide you past the main buildings to see.
https://www.victurisme.cat/en/que-s2019hi-pot-fer/que-oferim/ruta-turistica
By car (or bus)
Besalú
Located on the edge of La Garrotxa, the town of Besalú is one of the best conserved medieval towns in Catalonia. Forming part of this core is the old church of Sant Pere Monastery from the XII century; Sant Vicenç Church from the XII century; the façade of the old church hospital of Sant Julià from the XII century; the Casa de Cornellà, a Romanesque monument from the XII century and the gothic room of La Cúria Reial palace. The Jewish Call is also a highlight, especially El Miqvé.
L’Emporda
L’Emporda in the north-east of Girona offers a mix of beautiful medieval towns, spectacular coastal towns and the rugged beauty of the Costa Brava. This area is popular with locals and foreigners alike, particularly in the summer months, when the coastal settlements of Roses, L’Escala, L’Estartit, Palamos and Platja d’Aro are packed.
Cadaques, Peralada and Sant Marti are popular destinations in Alt Emporda, whilst the towns of Pals, Peratallada and Begur are all top locations in Baix Emporda.
You will need time to explore so slow travel is highly recommended.
Puigcerda and the Cerdanya
The Priorat
Wine growing country set against the mountains of Montsant, inland from Reus and Tarragona. The mountains have long been popular with rock climbers, but the vineyards and bodegas are now the main attraction. Check the local tourism page for detailed information.
Tortosa and the Delta d’Ebre
I’ve made a couple of trips to the Delta d’Ebre over the years, hiring bicycles to explore the area. It is possible to take a bicycle on the train and then cycle from the station, but its easier to rent locally.
Tortosa is located inland on the banks of the Ebre River. Visit the Parador, which is a restored castle up on the hill overlooking the town, to get the best views.
Rice is grown on the river flats and the area attracts bird watchers at certain times during the year.
