Barcelona

Bus & minivan tours

There are so many things to do in Barcelona, but one effortless train ride away can whisk you off to experience many of Spain's other gems. Barcelona is the perfect starting point for incredible journeys that take you to golden beaches, charming villages, and even the snow-capped Pyrenees.

Visit the renowned Benedictine monastery in Montserrat, explore Salvador Dali's seaside hometown in Costa Brava, or sip on award-winning wines in Alella. History enthusiasts, art lovers, and nature seekers alike will find something special in this guide for the best trips from Barcelona by train.

Nestled high in the Catalan countryside, Montserrat is a mountaintop sanctuary that looks like it was plucked from an epic poem by Catalonia’s de facto poet laureate, Jacint Verdaguer. Home to serrated peaks, a centuries-old monastery, and panoramic views that stretch for miles, it’s a must-visit destination for history lovers, hikers, and anyone in search of a little spiritual serenity.

Thinking of visiting? From how to get there to the best things to see and do, this guide has all the tips you need to know before you make the pilgrimage to Catalonia’s most magical mountain.

A rich and vibrant city, Barcelona beckons visitors with its lively energy all year round. The world-renowned Sagrada Família is best visited in the quieter spring months, while Nova Icària and Playa de la Barceloneta beaches are ideal for families in summer.

Explore history and art at the city's many museums, tour the medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, and join a local food tour to tuck into the best food in Barcelona when the cooler fall temperatures are more favorable. Discover the best time to visit Barcelona to fully experience its culture, cuisine, and activities right here.

Choosing the best time to go to Barcelona

The best time to visit Barcelona is May to August if you want to take advantage of the brilliant Spanish sunshine and warm weather. November to February is the best time to go to Barcelona if you’re visiting on a budget; the winter months are cooler, wetter, and less busy.

The shoulder season from March to May and September to November is the perfect time to visit Barcelona if sightseeing without the crowds is your goal — the weather will be pleasant, but there will be fewer tourists.

Best time for sun worshippers

June to August are some of the best months to go to Barcelona for outdoor activities — the hot Mediterranean sunshine combined with a packed program of festivals, events, and concerts makes for the perfect summer getaway.

Best time for budget travelers

Escape the crowds and see Barcelona on a shoestring budget by planning your trip during the winter months from November to February. The lack of warmth and sunshine discourages many people, so it’s an ideal time to see the sights without the crowds and save money on flights and accommodation.

Best time for sightseeing

March to May or September and October are the best months for visiting the city's busiest attractions. Barcelona's best museums will be open, the weather won’t be quite as intense as the summer months, and there are fewer tourists.

Discover Casa Batlló, one of Antoni Gaudí’s most imaginative creations and a quintessential landmark in Barcelona. This Modernisme masterpiece harmoniously blends organic forms, expressive colors, and novel materials. Inspired by water and marine elements, the building’s undulating façade, sculptural details, and stained glass evoke the fluidity of the natural world.

The imitation of biology throughout the building brings the space to life, from the spiraling staircase symbolizing air and water movement to the fantastical elements prevalent throughout the house nicknamed “House of Bones.” Casa Batlló draws inspiration from flora and fauna, transforming architecture into living, breathing art.