Daytrips From Barcelona - Spain

Barcelona is a historical city with many museums and galleries offering an insight into the strong culture of the region. Its busy nightlife and array of eateries make it an interesting place to explore. Once you have exhausted all that Barcelona has to do and see, head out into the wider region of Catalonia for a range of great daytrips.

Catalonia is home to a wide selection of attractions with everything from geological sites and historical cities to amusement parks and beaches all in close proximity to the region’s capital. Northwards, the Pyrenees are a rugged landscape of mountains and wilderness, while the temperate climate and beaches to the south are perfect for a beach getaway. Catalonia is an autonomous community and its strong culture, language and heritage add extra spice to the attractive European way of life.

Throughout the city of Barcelona you will see the unparalleled architecture of the renowned Gaudi, while Montserrat offers a natural formation that is a powerful symbol for the Catalan people. It is a unique geological rock formation, only 30 miles (50kms) north of Barcelona. Here you will find the world renowned Benedictine Abbey and music school, where on a good day the angelic voices of the boy’s choir drift through the magical mountain oasis.

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Salvador Dali is loved for his curious behaviour and outstanding contributions to modern art. Figueres, a 78-mile (125km) drive from Barcelona, is home to the Salvador Dali Museum, housed in a building which the artist designed himself. It is worth a visit simply to observe the strange design, but you will also find some interesting photos of the artist from throughout his life. However, visitors looking to find a collection of works by the man will be disappointed. It is more a homage to his life and work, with a range of memorabilia and ornaments on sale.

Most Europeans will have heard of Port Aventura. It is well-known as an adventure destination and is the perfect place for a great family day out. The surrounding landscape is spectacular and a good enough reason to visit. However, the list of attractions built in five ‘world’ motifs, including the Far West, China, Mediterranean, Polynesia and Mexico is endless: you won’t want to leave.

The hair-raising rides include the Dragon Khan roller coaster and the Hurakan Condor, a drop ride from a terrifying height. Salou is also one of the top Catalonian destinations for the avid party-goer. There are no end of nightclubs, bars and places offering live music here.

If you are searching for something a little more sophisticated, Sitges is Catalonia’s answer to Biarritz. It is a popular holiday spot for chic Europeans, with beautiful, powder-like beaches and a truly artsy feel. The Car Ferrat and Marciel are two among a number of museums in the town, while the Old Quarter with its attractive, quaint architecture is the spot to chill out and watch the who’s who of Sitges wander by.

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The golf star Greg Norman is also a fan of this area of Spain, so much so that he has designed a 45-hole course here. It is located around the rugged coastline of Costa Brava, with spectacular coastal views to take in as you cover the course. Those who don’t wish to golf are catered for just as well. The gourmet pool, sauna and Turkish bath are worth the trip, even if you don’t set eyes on a golf ball.

Penedes is the home of the internationally known Torres brand of wine. The region, located 30 miles (45kms) from Barcelona also boasts the production of Cava, a popular sparkling white wine, and spans an area of the Pyrenees mountains that is most picturesque.

For those not wishing to move too much away from city life, Girona is the second city after Barcelona. It is much smaller and considered more picturesque than the capital with its medieval architecture, quaint cobbled stone streets and striking red roof tops built ascending a small hill. The Rambla is a walking street running alongside the river with a host of bookshops, cafés, restaurants and interesting antique stores.