The enchanting Catalan city of Barcelona is a beautiful coastal metropolis famed for its awesome architecture and vibrant nightlife.
Fringed by the palm-tree lined Mediterranean Sea, Barcelona packs a punch with its abundance of culture and cuisine. With a whole host of tapas bars and barrios (neighborhoods), there’s always an adventure around the corner.
But if you can tear yourself away for a day, you’ll be surprised by all the scenic train trips from Barcelona awaiting you – journeys to picturesque villages, beaches, and mountainous landscapes. It’s a win-win situation.
With so many Spanish destinations on your doorstep, take your pick from a selection of perfect places for a day trip from Barcelona by train.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Pol Albarrán. Image Location: Sitges, Spain
1. Sitges
- Arrival station: Sitges
- Journey time: from 36m
While Barcelona certainly doesn’t lack beaches, if you’re asking yourself, “What city is close to Barcelona by train?” — just over half an hour away, sunny Sitges is a seaside destination worth visiting.
Famed for its LGBTQ-friendly atmosphere and world-famous horror film festival, Sitges offers something for everyone. Stroll along the pedestrianized Passeig Maritim, a scenic coastal boulevard lined with cafés, restaurants, and ice cream kiosks — all ideal stops for when the heat gets too much.
Image Credit: Getty Images, littleny. Image Location: Girona, Spain
2. Girona
- Arrival station: Gerona
- Journey time: from 38m
With the photogenic Girona Cathedral, a bunch of museums, and well-preserved Arab baths in the heart of its labyrinthine Old Town, Girona stands out as Northern Catalonia’s largest city.
Don’t forget to stop for some dreamy regional cuisine, rich in goodies from the land and sea. The ancient walled city is also the gateway to some seriously gorgeous Costa Brava beaches.
Girona was also a filming location for Game of Thrones, turning parts of its old town into the fictional city of Braavos. Explore the Cathedral of Gerona — featured as the Great Sept of Baelor in the show — and roam the same streets as Arya Stark.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Geraint Rowland Photography. Image Location: Tarragona, Spain
3. Tarragona
- Arrival station: Tarragona
- Journey time: from 57m
Tarragona is arguably a lively rival to Barcelona – minus the tourists. This lovely corner of Catalonia is a port city blessed with a ream of well-preserved Roman ruins, including an amphitheater.
Don’t miss out on the beaches, restaurants serving freshly grilled seafood, and the sight of Tarragona’s towering cathedral to ooh and aah over.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Erik Pronske Photography. Image Location: Montserrat, Spain
4. Montserrat
- Departure station: Plaça d'Espanya
- Arrival station: Montserrat-Aeri/Monistrol de Montserrat
- Journey time: about 1h
Montserrat, a multi-peaked mountain range about 38 miles northwest of Barcelona, is a magical region at the heart of Catalan identity combining a mountain monastery and natural park.
Visiting Montserrat, with its distinctive jagged peaks and the Santa Maria de Montserrat Benedictine monastery housing one of the few black madonnas in Europe, is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona.
To get there by train, take the FGC’s R5 line leaving Barcelona’s Plaça d'Espanya station and get off at either Montserrat-Aeri station for the cable car or Monistrol de Montserrat station for the rack railway up to the monastery.
Image Credit: Getty Images, luzimag. Image Location: crypt of the Colònia Güell, Spain
5. Colònia Güell
- Departure station: Plaça Espanya station
- Arrival station: Colònia Güell
- Journey time: from 29m
Discover Gaudí’s last big project at Colònia Güell, a former textile village home to his stunningly unfinished church. Unlike the crowded Parc Güell, Colònia Güell offers a peaceful retreat with its charming streets and modernist architecture.
The highlight here is the Cripta de la Colònia Güell — a hidden gem featuring organic forms and intricate mosaics. This crypt gives a glimpse of Gaudí’s vision and hints at what the Sagrada Familia might have been if he had completed it himself. Wander through this quaint area and enjoy its blend of history and art, preserved industrial heritage, and serene atmosphere.
Read also: Barcelona's most beautiful buildings designed by Antoni Gaudí
Image Credit: Getty Images, xavierarnau. Image Location: Pendès Wine Region, Spain
6. Penedès Wine Region
- Departure station: Barcelona-Sants
- Arrival station: Vilafranca del Penedès
- Journey time: from about 1h
Wine lovers, rejoice! A trip to the Penedès region is your ticket to tasting some of Spain’s finest Cava and wines. Stroll through scenic vineyards, sip on bubbly, and soak up the gorgeous countryside views.
But Penedès isn’t just about the wine. The landscape is sprinkled with medieval castles and charming villages straight out of a fairy tale. Take your time, enjoy a delicious lunch at a local bodega, and dive into regional dishes that pair perfectly with the local vintages. As you savor each bite and sip, let the serene beauty of the rolling vineyards take your breath away.
Image Credit: Getty Images, undefined undefined. Image Location: Collserola, Spain
7. Serra de Collserola
- Departure station: Plaça de Catalunya
- Arrival station: Baixador de Vallvidrera
- Journey time: from 18m
Ditch the city chaos and dive into Collserola, a massive green escape packed with hiking and biking trails that give you killer views of Barcelona. Nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, this is your playground.
Head up to Tibidabo’s peak for a view that’s seriously out of this world — cityscapes meet the sea in one stunning panorama. And while you’re at it, swing by the Collserola Tower. This telecom giant has an observation deck that’ll blow your mind with its sweeping views of the Catalan landscape. It’s the perfect spot to soak in the natural beauty and get a fresh perspective on the city.
Read also: what to do in Barcelona for 3 days
Image Credit: Getty Images, JackF. Image Location: Montblanc, Spain
8. Montblanc
- Departure station: Barcelona-Sants
- Arrival station: Montblanc
- Journey time: about 2 hrs
Step back in time with a visit to Montblanc, the capital of the Catalan comarca (county) Conca de Barberà, in the Spanish province of Tarragona. This medieval town boasts impressive preserved walls and quaint streets that feel like a page out of history. Wander through the narrow alleys, uncover hidden courtyards, and soak in the old-world charm.
If you time it right, you might catch one of the town’s many festivals, where the streets burst into life with medieval reenactments and local crafts. Montblanc isn’t just about history, though; it’s also the gateway to the stunning Prades Mountains, which are perfect for hiking and taking in breathtaking natural scenery — a great escape from the hustle and bustle.
Image Credit: Getty Images, COROIMAGE. Image Location: Andorra
9. Andorra
- Arrival station: Andorra la Vella Bus Station (direct bus from Barcelona Diagonal) or via L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre (France) by train + bus
- Journey time: approximately 3 hrs
Make your way to the tiny principality of Andorra for jaw-dropping mountain views, epic shopping, and top-notch winter sports. Sure, it’s a bit of a trek — but the stunning scenery and unique experiences make it totally worth it. Andorra is an outdoor lover’s paradise, with fantastic skiing in the winter and awesome hiking and mountain biking trails in the summer.
The capital, Andorra la Vella, is a shopper’s dream. With duty-free shopping, you can snag luxury goods, electronics, and more, all at great prices. Whether you’re hitting the slopes or exploring the shops, Andorra promises a memorable adventure packed with natural beauty and great finds.
Read also: how to explore Andorra and other Europe’s smallest countries by train
Image Credit: Getty Images, Ross Durant Photography. Image Location: Dalí Museum, Figueres, Spain
10. Figueres
- Departure station: Barcelona Sants
- Arrival station: Figueres-Vilafant
- Journey time: about 1 hr
Art enthusiasts will love Figueres, home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill museum — it’s a journey into the bizarre and brilliant mind of Salvador Dalí. The museum itself is a masterpiece, with its surreal architecture and whimsical exhibits.
But Figueres has more to offer. Wander through its lively streets filled with unique shops and cozy cafés. It’s the perfect spot to relax, explore, and soak in the vibrant local culture. Whether you’re marveling at the quirky museum or enjoying a leisurely coffee, Figueres is sure to surprise and delight.
Image Credit: Getty Images, R.Tsubin. Image Location: Cadaqués, Spain
11. Cadaqués
- Arrival station: Cadaqués (direct bus from Barcelona Nord) or via Figueres by train + bus/taxi
- Journey time: about 2h 45m
Head over to Cadaqués, a stunning coastal gem that once inspired Salvador Dalí himself. Tour the Casa-Museu Dalí, where you can dive deep into the artist’s world while soaking up those breathtaking seaside views. Cadaqués is all about charm, with its white-washed buildings, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant art scene.
Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront, where you’ll find quaint streets filled with local galleries and cozy cafés. If you’re up for an adventure, hop on a boat and discover hidden coves and pristine beaches. Cadaqués is a favorite for a reason — it’s a perfect blend of natural beauty and artistic spirit.
Image Credit: Getty Images, Artur Debat. Tossa de Mar, Spain
12. Tossa de Mar
- Arrival station: Tossa Estació (direct bus from Barcelona Nord) or via Blanes by train + bus
- Journey time: from 1h 20m
Tossa de Mar boasts some of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Brava. Start by wandering through its charming old town, where cobblestone streets and historic medieval walls tell tales of the past. Explore the ancient castle that overlooks the town — it’s like stepping back in time with a view!
When you’re ready to relax, head to the golden sands and enjoy the lively beachfront. Sunbathing, swimming, or just people-watching, it’s a really nice way to spend your day. And don’t miss out on the local seafood joints — dining on fresh catches while gazing at the Mediterranean is a must.
Read also: visiting Costa Brava, Spain without a car (or a care)
Ready for some epic adventures just a train ride away from Barcelona? Whether you’re soaking up the sun in Sitges, diving into history in Girona, or exploring Gaudí's genius in Colònia Güell, these day trips are perfect for escaping the city buzz. And don’t forget to grab the Trainline app to make booking your tickets a breeze. Vamos!
Header Image Credit: Getty Images, underworld111. Image Location: Tarragona, Spain.