13 Best Weekend Trips From Barcelona in 2024 by a Local
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Searching for the best weekend trips from Barcelona? I’ve got you covered! Here’s a list of my favorite weekend destinations from Barcelona.
I’ve been living in Barcelona for the last few years and have found tons of weekend trips from my home city.
One of my favorite parts of living in Barcelona is the ability to visit so many of Spain’s best destinations in just a few hours or less. From visiting Tarragona and Girona by train to hopping on a plane ride to the beautiful Spanish islands, there’s a weekend getaway for you just a short ride away.
13 Weekend Trips from Barcelona Spain
Avoid missing out on some of the most amazing cities in Spain – easily accessible from Barcelona. Here are 13 of my favorite weekend trips from Barcelona!
Join my free Barcelona planning Facebook group for more help planning your perfect trip.
1. Tarragona
One of my favorite train rides from Barcelona – Tarragona. Tarragona is a beautiful coastal city located in the southern part of Catalonia. The historic town boasts a rich history that dates back to Roman times.
Today, ruins are a fun focal point to the city, where visitors can gaze upon a well preserved amphitheater and Roman wall. In addition to the rich history, the city has plenty to do. Expect bustling city centers with endless tapas and wine and gorgeous beaches.
It won’t take long for you to see why this is one of the best weekend trips from Barcelona by train!
Distance:
95 km
How to get from Barcelona to Tarragona:
Take the Renfe train from Barcelona Sants to Tarragona. The journey will take about 1 hour and 20 minutes. Search for train tickets on Omio ►
Where to Stay in Tarragona:
- H10 Imperial Tarraco in Part Alta (Old Town) to be walking distance to important points of interest (plus some awesome rooftop views!)
- Hotel Sant Jordi in Arrabassada for close proximity to the beach and incredible views.
Best things to do in Tarragona for the weekend:
- Sightsee through old town by visiting staples like the Tarragona Cathedral, the Roman Ruins, and breathtaking views from the Mediterranean Balcony.
- Stroll through Mercado central for fresh Catalan cuisine.
- Visit the charming maritime neighborhood of Serrallo Marina!
- Enjoy the beautiful beach and watersports at Cala Fonda
- Take a catamaran cruise out of Cambrils for stunning views
- Or, kayak lovers can float down the Ebro river with a guided tour.
🤩 Sightsee through Tarragona’s hidden gems with a private guide
2. Cadaques
If you’re searching for the best beach trips from Barcelona, Cadaques in Costa Brava has you covered. Costa Brava is the coastal region in the North East of Catalonia that is speckled with pristine beach towns.
Cadaques is one of the most scenic towns in the Costa Brava region of Spain. It’s truly the perfect getaway from Barcelona. Barcelona does have some scenic views from the water (I love a good sunset cruise!) but they’re just not the same!
Cadaques is surrounded by rugged cliffs, clear waters, and scenic coves providing incredible overlooks. Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit! The town is also filled with whitewashed buildings that will immediately transport you to Greece.
The winding streets and small shops make for great exploration on foot. You’ll find plenty of things to do in Cadaques. Aside from it’s Greece-like setting, Cadaques also holds an artistic legacy, where the nearby Summer home of surrealist painter Salvador Dali sits. While Barcelona is known for its Gaudi creations, Cadaques is all about Dali!
Distance
171 km
How to get from Barcelona to Cadaques:
I recommend renting a car for this weekend trip. Buses are also available but will limit the ability to see nearby points of interest that are not accessible by foot in Cadaques and even along the way!
I rented a car for my weekend trip to Cadaques and it was well worth it. I stopped in Girona and Figures along the way – 3 destinations crossed off my Spain bucket list in one weekend trip from Barcelona!
The busses that are available from Barcelona to Costa Brava take about 2 hours and 45 minutes.
Where to Stay in Cadaques:
- Hotel Horta d´en Rahola near the Centre to be centrally located.
Best things to do in Cadaques for the weekend:
- Vist Cap de Creus National Park – a rugged and rocky peninsula – for hiking and exploring. Be prepared for a lot of wind! It can be difficult to access the park, so check a out boat tour to Cap de Creus National Park from Cadaques instead.
- Learn about the history of Dali and explore the Dali House Museum, and take in the same inspiration that Dali did!
🤩 Plan a day on the water in Cadaques
3. Figueres
While Cadaques is Dali’s favorite place for summer, you can also head to Figueres, his birthplace – the charming town of Figueres.
Figueres is home to the Salvador Dali Theatre Museum, one of the most unique and eccentric museums in the world. The museum was designed by Dali himself and houses a vast collection of his works. The building is a work of art, notable for its surreal and fantastical architecture.
Distance:
138 km
How to get from Barcelona to Figueres:
Figueres can be reached by train, bus, or car. A direct train will take about 55 minutes. Buses tend to take longer, so expect 2 hours and 45 minutes. Search for train tickets on Omio ►
Where to Stay in Figures:
Figueres is rather small, so staying in the city center is the best option. Hotel Duran is in the perfect location for sightseeing!
Best things to do in Figures for the weekend:
- Take a walking tour through Figures and the Dali Museum
- Explore the Sant Ferran Castle, one of the largest fortresses in Europe.
- Discover the Museum of Emporda, which showcases the history of the Emporda region, through artifacts, art, and ethnographic displays.
🤩 Explore all of Figures with a walking tour and Dali Museum visit
4. Girona
Girona is a pristine Catalan town nestled on the banks of the Onyar River. Girona is known for its well-preserved Medieval architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and rich history. The city dates back 2000 years with its architecture reflecting Roman, Moorish, and Gothic influences.
Distance:
100 km
How to get from Barcelona to Girona:
Renfe’s high-speed AVANT/AVE trains from Barcelona Sants will have you in Girona in just 40 minutes. Regional trains and buses take 1.5 hours. Search for train tickets on Omio ►
Where to Stay in Girona:
- Hotel Historic in Old Town is perfect if you want to be immersed in the history of this medieval paradise
- Hotel Nord 1901 is the perfect hotel in City center - close shops, restaurants, and bars.
Best things to do in Girona for the weekend:
- Soak in all the medieval sites that Girona has to offer. Expect an incredible old town, a magnificent cathedral, and ancient city walls. If you love Barcelona's Sagrada Familia, you won't want to miss out on Girona.
- For Game of Thrones fans, don't miss out on the most unique small group tour that blends shooting locations of the show with actual history.
- Visit the Girona Art Museum and the Cinema Museum.
Game of Thrones fans 🤝 history lovers: tour Figures in style!
5. Sitges
Sitges is a picturesque coastal town located on the Mediterranean Sea in Catalonia. Sitges is known for gorgeous beaches, a vibrant arts scene, and lively festivals.
Nestled on the coast, Sitges is full of art studios, and galleries. You’ll find tons of cultural events throughout the year. This little beach town is known for its lively nightlife, including a thriving LGBTQ+ scene.
Being only 40 km away from Barcelona, this is one of the best day trips to make.
Distance from Barcelona
40 km
How to get from Barcelona to Sitges:
Getting to Sitges from Barcelona is simple! Take the R2 Sud line from Sants of Passeig de Gracia. Trains run often and take about 40 minutes.
Best things to do in Sitges for the weekend:
- Museum hop and check out Cau Ferrat Museum and the Maricel Museum. Cau Ferrat is home to collections of modernist and avant-garde art while Maricel features decorative art and sculptures.
- Take an elelectric bike tour though the nearby Penedes vineyards for a real taste of local wines and cavas.
- If you’re short on time, and can’t decide on the best weekend trip, there are guided tours that take you through both Tarragona and Sitges in one day
Where to Stay in Sitges
- Centro for convenient access to the beach and Old Town.
- Passeig Maritim for beachfront access.
- Sitges Casco Antiguo, or old town, to be immersed in picturesque narrow streets and historical buildings.
6. Valencia
Valencia is an alluring beach city located on the eastern coast of Spain. The capital of the province of Valencia, the city is known for its rich history, impeccable architecture, and as the birthplace of paella. Additionally, the City of Arts and Sciences is a top attraction here - one that you don't want to miss!
Being one of the best cities near Barcelona, Valencia is an ideal option for weekend trips from Barcelona. Not only does it come with plenty to do, but it’s also situated on the gorgeous Mediterranean shoreline. Unsurprisingly, this means there are some incredible places to stay in Valencia for your weekend trip.
Distance:
350 km
How to get from Barcelona to Valencia:
Valencia is connected to Barcelona by direct train from Sants and takes about 3 hours. Search for train tickets on Omio ►
Where to Stay in Valencia:
- Hotel Helen Berger in Ciutat Vella to be immersed in history and close to landmarks like the cathedral
- YOURS Boutique Hotel in Russafa for a trendy area with hip cafes and lively nightlife.
Best things to do in Valencia for the weekend:
- Tour the City of Arts and Sciences, a collection of futuristic architecture and one of Europe's largest aquariums - easily one of my favorite things to do in Valencia!
- Old town wine and tapas tour for impeccable food and hidden gems of Valencia. Tapas are different in every region in Spain, so it's worth taking a food tour in every city you visit!
- Take a guided tour through the San Jose caves for breathtaking views of the Sierra de Espadan Natural Park.
7. Seville
Head south to Andalusia for a completely different Spanish experience than in Catalonia. Sevilla is one of the oldest cities and has a history that spans over two millennia.
Historically a hub of trade during the Roman and Moorish periods, the city holds plenty of historical architecture and landmarks. There are more than enough tourist attractions to get you through a whole weekend!
Only a short flight from Barcelona, the cuisine alone is worth a trip to the south. Try some of my favorite mouthwatering dishes like gazpacho and pescaito frito.
Distance:
995 km
How to get from Barcelona to Seville:
The short flights from Barcelona to Seville only take about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Trains take about 5-6 hours. Search for train tickets on Omio ►
Best things to do in Seville for the weekend:
- Visit the Cathedral, Alcazar, and Royal Alcazar - three can't-miss attractions. There's even a Game of Thrones shooting location in Seville.
- Experience Andalusian culture at a flamenco show
- Visit Plaza Espana, a stunning architectural masterpiece that can not be missed.
Where to Stay in Seville:
- Halo Boutique Hotel in Santa Cruz - home to iconic landmarks and one of the most picturesque areas of the city.
- Adriano Boutique Hotel is the perfect option in El Arenal - a cultural hub with plenty of bars, restaurants, and theaters.
- La Alameda is perfect for those looking for a lively nightlife scene.
8. Montserrat
Montserrat is a rigid mountain range that has significant cultural, spiritual, and natural significance for the region. Located a short distance from Barcelona, Montserrat is a popular destination for hikers and climbers.
It’s home to the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey - a Benedictine monastery dating back to the 9th century. Inside the monastery, you’ll find one of the most important religious symbols of Catalonia, La Moreneta.
Thousands of pilgrims and tourists visit this site per year as the statue is believed to hold miraculous powers.
Distance from Barcelona:
58 km
How to get from Barcelona to Montserrat:
R5 Train from Plaza Espana station. The trip takes about 1.5 hours. Montserrat is also one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona; you’ll find plenty of guided tours from Barcelona to join in on. Once you get off the train at Monistrol de Montserrat, you'll hop on the cable car to get up the mountain!
Best things to do in Montserrat for the weekend:
- It’s absolutely essential to tour the Monastery! Take a guided tour with lunch from Barcelona and make a day of it!
- Hike the popular trails in Montserrat and take a ride on St. Joan Funicular Railway. No worries - plenty of solo travelvers hit this hike on their own too!
Where to Stay in Montserrat:
- Guillemumes Montserrat in Monistrol de Montserrat is the place to stay for visitors looking to make a weekend out of it. Given the close proximity to Barcelona, this is a more popular day trip destination.
9. Mallorca
Pop over to Mallorca, the largest of the Balearic Islands. Mallorca is just a short plane ride from Barcelona - making it perfect for a weekend trip!
The Balearic Islands hold some of the most pristine beaches I’ve ever laid my eyes on. Mallorca is not just known for their beaches, it's also home to The Tramuntana Mountain Range, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that offers visitors excellent hikes and panoramic views .
Distance from Barcelona:
245 km
How to get from Barcelona to Mallorca:
You can reach Mallorca by plane or by ferry! Flights take about 50 minutes, while ferries take between 5-10 hours.
Flights are super cheap while ferries are a bit more expensive and take longer. The ferry's a great option if you want a unique travel experience.
Where to Stay in Mallorca:
- El Llorenc Parc de la Mar in Palma de Mallorca, the capital of the island - easy access to shopping and dining
- FERGUS Style in Palma Nova for a more exciting, lively atmosphere.
Best things to do in Mallorca for the weekend:
- Hop on a catamaran cruise, to view this gorgeous island by sea.
- Go off road with an ATV tour through Palma
- Relax on some of the most pristine beaches Spain has to offer.
10. Cadiz
Cadiz is another epic Andalusian city that makes a perfect weekend trip from Barcelona. Like Sevilla, Cadiz dates back thousands of years, and is one of the oldest cities in western Europe.
It also holds Cadiz’s Old Town is a historic center maze with narrow streets, charming squares, and picturesque alleys. Located on the shoreline in southwestern Spain, Cadiz has plenty of gorgeous beaches. If you're a surfer, you'll want to take advantage of the waves here!
Distance:
1110 km
How to get from Barcelona to Cadiz:
Flying is the best option; it will only take you about 1 hour 40 minutes! There are plenty of nonstop flights that leave from BCN to Cadiz.
Best things to do in Cadiz for the weekend:
- Visit historical sites like the Cathedral and the Castle of San Sebastian, a historic fortress highlighting the maritime history of the region. Bike tours are the perfect way to get around Cadiz for efficient sightseeing!
- Have lunch in Mercado Central, a market with plenty of tasty local stalls.
- Beach like a local on Caleta Beach. Caleta is the most popular, but the beaches in Cadiz are pristine - perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
Where to Stay in Cadiz:
- Palacete de La Alameda is in heart of the old town
- Luz de Gades (Adults Only) is right next to La Caleta Beach (the best beach in Cadiz!)
- Hotel Boutique Convento in Santa Maria - a lively district known for shops, boutiques, and restaurants.
11. Madrid
Madrid, perhaps one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Spain, is the capital and culture powerhouse of the country. As one of Europe’s major capitals, Madrid offers an array of activities for visitors, plus my favorite - even more tapas and wine!
With plenty of high speed trains connecting Madrid and Barcelona, this is one of the best train trips from Barcelona.
Madrid is more humid than Barcelona, so I'd suggest staying near the beach in Barcelona in hot summer months like August.
Distance:
625 km
How to get from Barcelona to Madrid:
Train is the fastest and easiest option. Expect a 2.5 hour journey starting from Barcelona Sants.
Best things to do in Madrid for the weekend:
- Visit the World Renowned Prado Museum.
- Visit the Royal Palace of Madrid and Prado like *royalty* with a private tour + hotel pickup
- Stroll through Retiro Park and Puerta del Sol. Retiro Park is perhaps the most popular park in the city while Puerta del Sol is known as the symbolic center of Madrid.
- Eat more tapas! As I mentioned before, tapas vary in every city, so don't hesitate to keep trying more popular Spanish dishes!
Where to Stay in Madrid:
- Hotel Regina near Sol and Gran Via is ideal for first time visitors and provides easy access to main points of interest.
- Room Mate Alba in Barrio de las Letras (Literary Quarter) - Home to the Prado and Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, an excellent option for visitors looking to appreciate art and culture.
- Malasana, a lively neighborhood, perfect for those looking to explore Madrid's nightlife.
12. Andorra
Andorra is a small principality located in the Eastern Pyrenees mountains between Spain and France. Andorra is known for its picturesque natural landscapes and is a popular weekend retreat for those looking to partake in outdoor activities.
Whether you’re looking to hike or ski Andorra is absolutely worth a weekend visit from Barcelona!
Distance:
198 km
How to get from Barcelona to Andorra:
Car or bus, both will take about 3 hours. There are no direct train lines connecting the two. Search for rental cars from DiscoverCars ►
Best things to do in Andorra for the weekend:
- Spend some time at Caldea Spa, one of Europe’s largest thermal complexes.
- Explore Old Town, a collection of charming streets, restaurants and boutiques.
- Visit Casa de la Vall, Andorra’s historic parliament building. Tours are offered to elaborate on Andorra’s unique political landscape.
- Explore Vallnord or Grandvalira, hiking and mountain biking utopias in the Summer, skiing and snowboarding destinations in the winter.
- Enjoy other outdoor activities like ziplining and horseback riding.
Where to Stay in Andorra:
- Andorra la Vella is the capital and commercial hub. Stay in this area for easy access to duty free shopping.
- Escaldes-Engordany is known for luxury spa resorts and wellness centers.
- Soldeu and El Tarter is ideal for skiing and outdoor activities and includes plenty of ski-in/ski-out hotels.
- Ordino and La Massana are great for those looking for quiet and scenic stays in mountain settings.
13. Ibiza
Ibizia, perhaps one of the most renowned islands in Spain, is a quick flight or ferry ride from Barcelona. Ibiza has plenty of stunning beaches, natural landscapes, and top notch nightlife. Visitors flock to Ibiza to relax, explore, and party into the wee hours of the morning.
Given its close proximity and high volume of flights, Ibiza is a fantastic destination for a weekend trip from Barcelona. Afterall, the best souvenir is new memories!
Distance:
577 km
How to get from Barcelona to Ibiza:
Flying is the fastest option and takes about 1 hour. Ferries will take between 8-9 hours.
Best things to do in Ibiza for the weekend:
- Explore the capital of Ibiza, Ibiza town. Dalt Vila, or Old Town, is UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through the streets, visit the Ibiza Cathedral, and enjoy incredible views from the castle walls.
- Charter a boat to visit the nearby Formentera
- Beach hop your way through Ibiza. Check out Playa d’en Bossa, Cala Comte, Cala Salada for some of the coolest beaches in the world
- Experience an Ibiza sunset from a beachfront bar in San Antoni.
- Hike through Ses Salines Natural Park, home to plenty of scenic salt flats.
Where to Stay in Ibiza:
- One Ibiza Suites in Ibiza Town (Eivissa) for easy access to clubs, bars, and cultural attractions.
- Playa d’en Bossa for close proximity to beach clubs and day parties Hotel Garbi & Spa is the perfect choice here.
FAQ Weekend Getaways From Barcelona
It’s not easy choosing from all of these Barcelona weekend trips! Here are some frequently asked questions I get about traveling around Barcelona, Spain and beyond.
What is the easiest island to get to from Barcelona?
Mallorca, Menorca, and Ibiza are the easiest islands to get to from Barcelona. There are convenient and affordable daily flights from the Barcelona Airport (BCN). The best part - flights take just one hour!
These beautiful islands all offer something unique - from beautifully clear waters in Menorca to an epic nightlife in Ibiza.
What city is 2 hours from Barcelona?
Girona, Sitges, and Tarragona are all less than 2 hours from Barcelona by train. If you're searching for a plane ride from Barcelona, flights to Seville and Cadiz are less than 2 hours.
Where can you travel from Barcelona?
Barcelona's international airport and extensive train system allows you to travel almost anywhere by plane. By train, you can travel to France, Andorra, Madrid, Costa Brava, Girona, Valenica, and more from Barcelona.
The expansive and well connected public transit networks connect you from Barcelona to most cities in Spain and plenty of cities in Europe and beyond.
What other cities are close to Barcelona, Spain?
Smaller cities like Sitges and Girona are incredibly close to Barcelona.
Cities like Valencia and Madrid are close enough to be connected by high speed rail, making transit between the two incredibly easy and fast.
What cities can you take a train from Barcelona?
You can take a train from Barcelona to Girona, Sitges, Madrid, Valencia, Montserratt, Tarragona, Seville, Figueres, and more by train.
The train system from Barcelona is well-connected and reliable. It's also an affordable option for traveling through Spain.
Which Italian city is closest to Barcelona?
Rome and Naples are the closest Italian cities to Barcelona by plane. Flights to these Italian cities take just under 2 hours.
How long is the high speed train from Barcelona to Seville?
The high speed train from Barcelona to Seville is 5 hours and 35 minutes. Direct trains depart from Barcelona to Seville throughout the day, from early morning to early evening.
Are Barcelona and Portugal close?
No, Barcelona is not close to Portugal. Barcelona is located on the eastern coast of Spain, where Portugal is to the west.
There are plenty of cheap flight options connecting Barcelona to Porto and Lisbon and Portugal remains one of the best countries to visit from Barcelona.
Are Barcelona and Madrid close?
No - Madrid and Barcelona are not that close; they are 626 kilometers apart. However, there is a high-speed train that connects the two cities. The Renfe train ride from Barcelona to Madrid can take as little as 2 hours and 45 minutes.
What cities are between Madrid and Barcelona?
Salou, Sitges, Tarragona, Zaragoza, Alcala De Henares, and Reus are between Madrid and Barcelona.
There are a few other cities you can stop at between Spain's two largest cities, but Salou, Sitges, and Tarragona are the most popular. If you take the long way down the coast, Valenica is not too far out of the way.
Final Thoughts: Best Weekend Trips from Barcelona
There you have it! The best weekend trips from Barcelona. Whether visiting Tarragona by train or hopping on a plane to Ibiza for the weekend, these easy places to travel from Barcelona will leave you with a travel itch for me - I know they always do for me!
Not only is Barcelona an incredible spot for exploration, it’s also the gateway to another perfect vacation. Whether you have a limited time or months to explore, there are plenty of places to visit from Barcelona just waiting to be discovered!
And thanks to Spain’s extensive public transport network, these destinations are all easy trips from Barcelona for a quick escape. From cave diving excursions to full art immersions, major tourist attractions to quiet retreats, I’ve left you with a list of activities to start checking off your bucket list.
They say the perfect place doesn’t exist, but I beg to differ.
