Bookmark these 7 best trips from Barcelona by train

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.

Trips via train from Barcelona at a glance

Best destination for families: Costa Brava, Tarragona
Best destination for couples: Girona, Alella
Best destination for culture: Montserrat, Tarragona
Best destination for nature: Costa Brava, Andorra la Vella

1. Montserrat, Catalonia

Best for awe-inspiring mountain and cultural experiences

Montserrat is a striking mountain range just outside Barcelona, known for its jagged peaks, spiritual significance, and outstanding natural beauty. At its heart lies the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, home to the revered Black Madonna and a centuries-old tradition of Gregorian chants. Explore expansive hiking trails that lead to renowned viewpoints like Sant Jeroni and wander through the monastery's art museum, which houses works by Dalí, Picasso, and El Greco.

Getting there

Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona: Approximately 1.5 hours by train. Take the R5 train from Plaça Espanya Station toward Manresa and get off at Montserrat-Aeri for the cable car or Monistrol de Montserrat for the rack railway.

2. Girona, Catalonia

Best for a romantic getaway

Girona is a captivating city cloaked in medieval charm. Its historic Old Town (Barri Vell) is a maze of cobbled streets and plays host to the majestic Girona Cathedral, the Arab Baths, and the remarkably well-preserved Jewish Quarter (Call Jueu). Stroll along the Onyar River, where colorful houses create postcard-perfect views, and cross the Eiffel Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel before he built his famous tower. With a peaceful atmosphere and timeless architecture, this is one of the easiest day trips by train from Barcelona.

Getting there

Getting to Girona from Barcelona: Approximately 40 minutes by high-speed train. Take an AVE, AVANT, or MD train from Barcelona Sants Station to Girona Station for the fastest and most convenient option. Regional trains take about 1.5 hours.

3. Costa Brava, Catalonia

Best for a beach escape

Costa Brava is a rugged paradise known for its crystalline Mediterranean waters, dramatic cliffs, and idyllic seaside villages. Explore hidden coves and pristine beaches, like those in Calella de Palafrugell and Tossa de Mar. Hike along the Camí de Ronda coastal path, which links many of the region's picturesque towns, or wander down the narrow cobbled streets of Cadaqués and discover the town's artistic heritage, once home to Salvador Dalí. Being a nearby ocean sanctuary, this is rated as one of the best weekend getaways from Barcelona.

Getting there

Getting to Costa Brava from Barcelona: The closest major station is Girona, a 40-minute high-speed train ride from Barcelona Sants Station. From Girona, you can take a regional train to specific towns along the coast. If you're heading directly to Figueres, where the Dalí Theatre-Museum is located, you can take a direct train from Barcelona Sants (about 1.5 hours).

4. Tarragona, Catalonia

Best for a deep dive into ancient history and family fun

Tarragona, a historic gem on Spain's Costa Dorada, is famous for its ancient Roman ruins, including the remarkable Tarragona Amphitheatre overlooking the sea, the Roman Circus, and the well-preserved Aqueduct of les Ferreres. Visit the Tarragona Cathedral, which encapsulates the Romanesque and Gothic architecture of old. Rising above the Old Town, trek up to the Mediterranean Balcony to witness sweeping views of the coastline. If you're out with the kids, get your adrenaline pumping with a trip to renowned theme and water parks PortAventure or Ferrari Land.

Getting there

Getting to Tarragona from Barcelona: Tarragona is about 1 hour from Barcelona Sants Station by train. Take a direct R2 Sud regional or AVANT high-speed train to Tarragona Station.

5. Alella, Catalonia

Best for wine lovers and couples

Alella, sitting just north of Barcelona, is famous for its scenic vineyards and fine DO Alella wines. Tour local wineries, meander the quaint cobblestone streets, and wander through the Vineyard Route. With its peaceful countryside and proximity to the coast, Alella is an ideal choice if you're looking for something romantic to do in Barcelona.

Getting there

Getting to Alella from Barcelona: Take the R1 or R2 suburban train from Barcelona's Passeig de Gràcia or Sants Station to El Masnou or Premià de Mar (about 25-30 minutes). From there, you can take a short bus or taxi ride (around 10 minutes) to Alella.

6. Collioure, France

Best for art enthusiasts

Collioure, a French seaside town, is known for its kaleidoscopic harbor, historic Château Royal, and the birthplace of the Fauvist art movement in the early 20th century. With azure waters lapping against the perched harbor, visit waterfront churches and the famous lighthouse bell tower. Stop for a delectable gelato and admire the light streaking through the surrounding buildings, a sight the town is especially known for.

Getting there

Getting to Collioure from Barcelona: Take a direct RENFE regional train from Barcelona Sants Station to Portbou (about 2.5 hours). From Portbou, you can transfer to a local train for a short ride to Collioure, which takes about 30 minutes.

7. Andorra la Vella, Andorra

Best for a hiking and skiing break

Andorra la Vella is a gateway to unparalleled outdoor adventures. It offers year-round activities like hiking in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, a UNESCO-listed glacial valley with breathtaking trails, or skiing at nearby resorts like Grandvalira and Vallnord. In warmer months, embark on mountain biking, horseback riding, or canyoning adventures in the region’s dramatic gorges. Unwind at Caldea, the largest thermal spa in Southern Europe, or explore the city's old quarter, which is lined with historic stone buildings and punctuated with famous landmarks. With so many activities on offer, this is one of the best weekend trips by train from Barcelona.

Getting there

Getting to Andorra la Vella from Barcelona: There is no direct train to Andorra la Vella. The best option is to take a RENFE train from Barcelona Sants Station to L'Hospitalet-près-l'Andorre (about 3 hours). From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Andorra la Vella, which takes approximately 1.5 hours.

FAQs: Train trips from Barcelona

Generated with the help of AI

What are popular train destinations from Barcelona?

From Barcelona, you can reach several popular destinations by train. Travel to Madrid in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, with trains starting at 5:45 and ending at 21:05. Valencia is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes away, with services running from 7:15 to 21:03. For a longer journey, Paris is accessible in around 6 hours and 44 minutes, with departures between 8:19 and 16:34. Seville is another option, taking about 5 hours and 33 minutes, with similar departure times to Madrid.

What is the most scenic train ride from Barcelona?

A popular scenic train journey from Barcelona is the trip to Montserrat Monastery. This half-day excursion takes you through beautiful landscapes as you travel by the scenic rack railway or the "Aeri" cable car. The journey offers stunning views of the rugged Montserrat Mountain, making it a memorable experience for nature lovers.

What is a nearby train destination from Barcelona?

Sitges is a great choice for a quick train trip from Barcelona. Located just over 30 minutes away, this sunny seaside town offers beautiful beaches and a charming atmosphere, making it a perfect day trip destination.

Where does the high-speed train from Barcelona go?

The high-speed train from Barcelona offers convenient connections to several major Spanish cities, including Madrid, Córdoba, Seville, Málaga, León, and Valencia.

How long is the train journey from Barcelona to Madrid?

The train journey from Barcelona to Madrid typically takes around 2.5 to 3 hours on the high-speed AVE train. This service offers a comfortable and efficient way to travel between these two major Spanish cities, with frequent departures throughout the day. Passengers can enjoy modern amenities and scenic views of the Spanish countryside along the way.