Montserrat is the COOLEST spot in Spain and easily accessible from Barcelona. It’s no wonder a Montserrat Spain day trip is easy to accomplish. But what should you see and do? This guide will cover all the essentials including step by step directions on Barcelona to Montserrat.
I’ll never forget my first time in Montserrat. It was late February and we woke up extra early to take the first train out. It was 6:30 am as we rushed out of our hotel room and made our way to the train station. We boarded the train and embarked on a 60 minute scenic journey to Montserrat. We were the first ones to arrive and had the place to ourselves for nearly an hour as we strolled through the grounds and marveled at the beautiful buildings.
No one could have prepared me for how smitten I would be with Montserrat. That’s why I’ve put together the essential Montserrat Spain day trip guide. Because there are some things you MUST do when you visit Barcelona.
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So is Montserrat worth visiting? This place is not just a destination, it’s an experience. It has something for everyone – whether you’re an adventurer, a history buff, or just someone looking to unwind and soak in the beauty. Let Montserrat sweep you off your feet!
@herjoliejourney 📍Montserrat, worth the early morning wake up call! #montserrat #montserratspain #barcelonaspain #spaintravel #traveldiaries ♬ Forever - Labrinth
Who needs a direct route when you can take the scenic route to Montserrat? The distance from Barcelona to Montserrat is 60 kilometers and it’s northwest of Barcelona. If traffic’s on your side, driving might only take an hour. But I highly recommend taking the train from Barcelona instead! The journey is quite scenic and makes for an excellent Montserrat Spain Day Trip.
There are several ways to reach Montserrat from Barcelona, each offering its own scenic journey and convenience. Here’s a breakdown of the different transportation options to help you plan your visit.
To reach Montserrat from Barcelona by car, start by heading northwest out of the city. Take the A-2 motorway, which is well-signposted and easy to follow. After approximately 30 kilometers, take exit 582A towards Manresa. Continue on the C-55 road for about 15 kilometers until you see signs for Montserrat. Follow these signs and take the BP-1121 road, which will lead you up the mountain to the Montserrat Monastery.
The drive usually takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. As you ascend, you’ll be treated to stunning views of the surrounding Catalonian landscape, making the journey as enjoyable as the destination.
To get from Barcelona to Montserrat by train, here is a step by step guide to help you on your way:
I highly recommend taking the rack railway. This is faster and if you’re starting early like we did, this will be your only option. Once you are ready to head back to Barcelona, take the cable car down and enjoy the views. The cable car departs every 15 minutes. This is the best way to make the most of your Montserrat Spain Day Trip.
Booking a tour is a fantastic idea when planning your Montserrat Spain day trip. It’ll make your visit hassle-free and even more memorable!
Tours usually include transportation from Barcelona, knowledgeable guides to share fascinating stories and history, and maybe even wine tasting or hiking! It’s the perfect way to relax and take in the stunning scenery without worrying about logistics. Choose from small group settings or private excursions- there’s something for everyone. Here are just some of the best options when looking for a montserrat tour from barcelona:
If you’re thinking a Montserrat Spain day trip doesn’t feel like enough time to cover everything, prepare to have your mind blown! Whether you’re up for a scenic hike or ready for a cultural adventure, Montserrat is the ultimate destination for you! And here’s the thing, this list can easily accommodate a half day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona.
Who wouldn’t want to make the trek to Montserrat for a peek at the beautiful Monastery? Founded in the 11th century, the monastery has gained a reputation for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance. A major attraction is the statue of the Black Madonna, believed to have miraculous powers. The basilica, its chapels, and the Montserrat Museum, which houses art by El Greco, Picasso, and Dalí, are must-sees. Don’t miss the daily performance by the Escolania de Montserrat, one of Europe’s oldest boys’ choirs.
We arrived extra early at the Monastery to beat the crowds. Left Barcelona at 6:30 am and arrived just after 8 am. It was totally worth it – we strolled right in and avoided the tedious hour-long wait to see the Black Madonna.
Pro tip: get there at 8 am sharp to see her up close and personal. To see the Black Madonna at Montserrat basilica, go to the back of the building and look for a doorway on the right in the atrium. This is where you can join the queue and view this amazing sight up close.
The Escolania de Montserrat, one of Europe’s oldest boys’ choirs, offers a unique and enchanting experience for visitors to Montserrat, Spain. Established in the 13th century, the choir is renowned for its exceptional musical talent and historical significance. The choir performs a diverse repertoire that includes Gregorian chants, Renaissance polyphony, and contemporary works.
You can see them perform during their daily services at the Montserrat Monastery. The choir typically sings during the midday prayer service at 1:00 PM from Monday to Friday and on Sundays at 12:00 PM. On Saturdays and the eve of feast days, they perform during the Vespers service at 6:45 PM. These performances take place in the basilica.
Another great way to take advantage of your Montserrat Spain day trip is through one of the many hiking trails here. There are several routes that showcase Montserrat’s stunning natural beauty and unique rock formations. These hikes vary in difficulty and length, catering to different preferences and fitness levels. Whether you seek a challenging ascent to Montserrat’s highest peak or a leisurely walk with historical significance, Montserrat’s trails offer something for everyone! Here are some of the best hikes to consider
Looking for a fun way to explore Montserrat Spain? Well, hop on one of their two funicular railways and enjoy easy access to some of the mountain’s most beautiful views! Here’s what you need to know about riding them:
Overview: The Santa Cova Funicular transports visitors from the monastery area down to the path leading to the Santa Cova Chapel, where the Black Madonna was traditionally found.
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Overview: The Sant Joan Funicular takes visitors from the Montserrat Monastery area up to a higher viewpoint, offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding landscapes and access to several hiking trails.
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