The city of Barcelona is full of culture, museums, lively streets, and beautiful artwork and buildings. But when you need a quiet getaway from the ever exciting city, there are many Catalonian towns close by just waiting to be explored – and are only a short drive or train ride away. CeleBreak has the ideal list of where to go and what to do when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Barcelona. So, what are you waiting for?

MONTSERRAT

The mountainous Town of Montserrat is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona for its rural landscape and connection with Catalan culture and spirituality. Even further back in time, ancient Romans built a temple here to honor the goddess Venus. You can explore the small town under the rocky mountains, or hike upwards for spectacular views of the mountain and surrounding scenery. Tucked away in the crevices, you can find a Benedictine monastery famous for its Black Madonna statue that is truly amazing. How to get there: 10 minute drive or 17 minute train ride. More information at renfe.com.

SITGES

A classic vacation spot, Sitges has been a major tourist resort since the 1970’s and there’s no wonder why. The seafront town is perfect for a long holiday or a short day trip away from the city. It’s a 45 minutes train ride south of Barcelona and has 17 popular sandy beaches with 11 of them within the small city. If you’re looking for fun nightlife, luxury hotels overlooking the water, and beach-front seafood restaurant and drinks spots, this is the place for you! Sitges even has its own sweet wine liquor called Malvasia made from local vineyards. Cheap and easy to get to, Sitges is a classic Barcelona get.
How to get there: 31 minute drive, 45 minute train ride, or 40 minute ferry. More information at renfe.com

GIRONA           

Girona is a romantic and medieval paradise away from the crowded streets of Barcelona. The Roman wall around the city was built in the first century BC but was recently rebuilt in the mid-1300s. Walk around the cobblestone streets and travel up and down the medieval towers scattered around the buildings and shops. If you visit, be sure to check out the Cathedral and the 14th century Gothic church that takes you back in time to the medieval ages.
How to get there: 1 hour drive or 38 minute bus ride. More information at renfe.com.

BEGUR

Heading to the Catalonian area of Costa Brava, the calm town of Begur is a local spot famous for a quick trip to the coast. You can walk through the charming town center while trying to find the local castle that dates back to the 11th century! Trust us, you won’t want to miss the views from the top of the castle overlooking the sparkling waters. Begur is also known for its many small coves along the beach where you can lay out or swim in the warm Mediterranean. Some popular spots are Aiguablava, Aiguafreda and Platja Fonda – they might be a bit hard to find, but totally worth the effort. Enjoy the clean white buildings while strolling along the quaint streets of the oceanic Catalonian city.
How to get there: 2 hour and 20 minute bus ride or 1 hour 37 minute train ride. More information at renfe.com.

CADEQUES

If you’re traveling north of Barcelona, stop by Cadaqués for picturesque sea views throughout the town straight from a postcard. You can also walk along the warm sandy beaches looking around the port or stop in one of the seafront restaurants for tapas and fresh seafood. A must-see is the monumental church of Esglesia de Santa Maria overlooking the seaside town as well as the Portlligat Museum-House where the popular surrealist artist Salvador Dalí lived and worked from 1930 to 1982. Definitely a must stop on your way out of Barcelona!
How to get there: 2 hour drive or 2 hour and 50 minute train ride. More information at renfe.com.

MONTBLANC

Surrounded by the Prades Mountains, the inland city of Montblanc is full of rich culture and medieval structures and buildings. You can reach the day trip city by train, but car is easier to explore the ‘Cistercian Route’- a section of brilliant monasteries within easy reach of one another located at Poblet, Vallbona de les Monges and Santes Creues. The ancient walled city contains preserved buildings from the XIII and XIV centuries that bring in tourists from all around. Walk down the beautiful cobblestone pathways throughout restaurants and artistic shops to grab a souvenir, or stop by The Church of Santa Maria, which is the grand structure in the center of the town. The city also contains The Tower of St. Jordi- site of the legendary battle between St. Jordi and the dragon for the princess that inspired the Catalan’s holiday version of Valentine’s Day. You can’t get more romantic than that.
How to get there: 2 hour train ride or 1 hour and 18 minute drive. More information at renfe.com

VILANOVA I LA GELTRU

Vilanova i la Geltrú is another beach town worth a visit if you want to escape the city life of Barcelona. Right below Sitges, you can take the train or walk along the coast for an hour for a more scenic route while breathing in the sea breeze. Have your swimsuit and sunscreen handy because the coastal town has nice wide, sandy beaches to spend the day by. You can find smaller more isolated coves more right to the south along the seaside more a more private beach swim. Its marina is considered to be in the top 10 most beautiful ports in Europe! The vast blue water is filled with super yachts worth gazing over. To really take in the city, walk down the quaint streets, breathe in the sea breeze, and listen to the local parakeet birds sing. Perfection.
How to get there: 1 hour train ride or 38 minute. More information at renfe.com.

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