Montserrat: Day Trips and Tours from Barcelona

Discover the rich Catalan culture, history and nature as you mark your presence at one of Spain’s most revered icons! Montserrat, a stone’s throw away from Barcelona, proffers an enriching experience in the laps of alpine spirit whilst you explore the alleyways, caves, and hermitages scattered all over the mountain.

Join a day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona for an unforgettable experience in the Catalonian countryside. Ride the cogwheel train or go on a hike to the iconic Benedictine Monastery of Santa Maria de Montserrat and its stunning Royal Basilica.

After marveling at the breathtaking views and landscapes, get ready to laugh, chatter and rejoice by the delight of discovering the delicious tapas brunch or local treats such as coca de Montserrat and Montserrat liqueur.

With a glass of Spanish wine in your hand, stroll through the natural park to witness the Escolanía, one of the oldest musical choirs in Europe or simply marvel the magnificent views of this beautiful enclave. The possibilities are endless!

Here's all you need to know about Montserrat, one of the best destinations for day trips in Barcelona.

What's the best way to get to Montserrat from Barcelona?

Montserrat is located about 60 kilometers northwest of Barcelona and is easily accessible by car and public transportation.

From Barcelona to Monserrat by car

There are a couple of different ways to reach Montserrat from Barcelona. The most direct route is via the A-2 motorway. Start by getting on the B-10 from Via Laietana and then switch to the A-2 and head to Carretera Manresa. From there you take the C-55 and the BP-1121, which will lead you to Montserrat. The car journey takes about an hour each way, depending on traffic conditions.

From Barcelona to Monserrat by bus

It is possible to travel to Monserrat from Barcelona via bus, with services departing from the Estació Sants station. Generally there are one or two services each day, leaving Barcelona in the morning and returning later in the day. Each leg of the journey takes about 1.5 hours.

From Barcelona to Monserrat by Train

Taking a train to Montserrat is a sensational way to make time while you also get to enjoy the countryside with a cogwheel ride. From Plaça Espanya in Barcelona, you can take the R5 line to Aeri de Montserrat, where you can take the cable car to the top. Alternatively, you can take the R5 from Barcelona and get off at Monistrol de Montserrat. From there you can continue with the rack railway. Train journeys to Monserrat typically take about 2 hours, each way.

Guided tour to Montserrat from Barcelona

A guided tour to Montserrat from Barcelona is one of the best ways to explore this corner of Catalonia and many of its must-see locations. Aside from taking care of all logistics concerns, excursions to Montserrat typically include the services of an experienced guide.

Furthermore, these guided tours also give you the opportunity to try some additional activities, such as wine tasting, to make the most of your day away from the city.

How much does the entrance ticket to Montserrat cost?

While there is no admission fee for the Montserrat monastery, tickets are required to visit a few attractions. Students and children (aged 8 to 16) are eligible for discounted rates.

Throne of Our Lady tickets

• Adults: €8
• Students and children: €7

Basilica of Montserrat

• Adults: €6
• Students and children: €5

Boys’ Choir (Escolanía) tickets

• Adults: €8
• Students and children: €7

Throne of Our Lady and Boys’ Choir combo tickets

• General admission: €12

Museum of Montserrat

• General admission: €8
• Students and seniors: €6.5
• Children: €4

What is the typical itinerary?

Every Montserrat day trip from Barcelona are different, most excursions follow a similar itinerary and can last half or an entire day. Typically, your tour will begin early in the morning, meeting your friendly guide, driver and group, before setting off for Montserrat. Depending on the tour you select, you may complete the journey to the monastery with a cogwheel train ride.

Once there, you will get to explore the Montserrat Basilica and Monastery with your knowledgeable guide leading the way, followed by visits to the Museum of Montserrat, the farmer’s market and more. There will also be time to explore the area on your own and take in the breathtaking views.

Some excursions may also include a traditional Catalan meal in their itinerary, as well as a visit to a nearby winery to sample some locally produced wines. When your wine tasting and tour of the winery conclude, you will then return to Barcelona.

What kinds of tours can you take to Montserrat?

Guided tours to Montserrat from Barcelona

The most straightforward way of visiting Montserrat is with a guided tour from Barcelona. On these excursions with an experienced guide, you will explore the iconic monastery and learn why locals consider Santa Maria de Montserrat the most important religious retreat in the country.

Some tours may also include a cogwheel train ride, offering a spectacular view of the region during your ascent and descent. Typically operating in small groups of up to 15 or 20 travelers, guided tours are offered as half and full-day excursions.

Montserrat day trips with wine tasting from Barcelona

Experience the serene heights of Montserrat, where cultural enrichment meets divine wine, on a day trip from Barcelona with wine tasting. Revel in the tranquility of the ancient monastery, a sanctuary steeped in spiritual significance, before indulging in a curated selection of local wines.

Each sip is a testament to the region's vinicultural heritage, as vital to the area's identity as the sacred monastery itself. And with transportation included, you can savor every moment and every glass without a care for the journey back to your accommodation.

Montserrat hiking tours from Barcelona

Journey into the heart of Catalonia's natural splendor with a guided hiking tour of Montserrat from Barcelona. Renowned not just for its iconic monastery but also for its breathtaking natural park, the Montserrat mountain range is a hiker’s paradise.

Ride the cable car to the top, before venturing beyond the usual tourist paths. Along the way, you'll immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the landscape, unveiling stunning perspectives and idyllic spots that many travelers never get to witness.

After visiting the monastery and watching the Escolanía de Montserrat, you will also get to sample local delicacies. Connect with nature and culture in this full-day escape from Barcelona, and let the mountain's secrets captivate your spirit.

Private Montserrat guided tours from Barcelona

For an even more intimate and personal experience, consider booking a private guided tour to Montserrat from Barcelona. Compared to other excursions, these tours are limited to just your group, so you will have the undivided attention of your guide.

Additionally, private guided tours generally include transportation in a luxury vehicle and allow greater flexibility in the places you visit and time you spend there. As such, you will be able to customize the itinerary based on your preferences and interests, making the most on your day trip in the Catalonian countryside.

What's the price range for a day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona?

The cost of a guided tour to Montserrat from Barcelona typically ranges from €40 to €100 per person, depending on the length of tour and what all you’ll see.

For a day trip to Montserrat with a wine tasting, you can expect pay anywhere from €50 to €100 per person. The final price depends on the excursion length and itinerary.

A hiking tour of Montserrat generally costs about €70 per traveler. These day trips include a guided hike through the natural park and monastery, train tickets and a pastry snack.

Private guided tours to Montserrat generally range from €180 to €600 per person, depending on group size, itinerary, additional activities (such as wine tasting) and excursion length.

What can you see and do in Montserrat?

Montserrat boasts a unique blend of natural splendor and spiritual significance, home to an active monastery revered as a crucial spiritual haven. It is a place of pilgrimage and very popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Santa Maria de Montserrat

Nestled amidst the mountains, Montserrat boasts a rich history and stunning natural beauty. The famous monastery is a must-see, surrounded by other noteworthy elements of the religious complex. The statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, in particular, offers a striking scene that is a favorite among photographers.

Santa Maria de Montserrat abbey is a favored destination for guided tours, offering a wealth of information and insights that you might miss if exploring alone. Expert guides bring the history and significance of this landmark to life with their in-depth knowledge.

Museum of Montserrat

After exploring the monastery and hiking trails, enhance your understanding of the region and gain greater context of its historical and cultural significance by visiting the local museum. The Museum of Montserrat is an impressive cultural repository, organized into three distinct sections.

Within it, you will find an array of significant artworks on display, featuring modern pieces by Catalonian artists as well as ancient masterpieces. Additionally, the museum presents fascinating archaeological finds from the Near East with biblical relevance.

Wine tastings

Spain's passion for wine permeates even its sacred sites, and Montserrat is no exception. Nearby wineries provide a range of exquisite wine tasting opportunities, showcasing both rare vintages and beloved classics that cater to diverse tastes.

Aside from sampling local wines and getting a guided tour of the cellars, you will also learn a few wine-making secrets. When visiting Montserrat from Barcelona, a wine tasting session is a delightful complement to your trip, perfect for couples or wine aficionados traveling together.

Tapas Dining

After a long day of wandering through the monastery or journeying through the natural park, you will likely work up an appetite. Before returning to Barcelona, you can change your batteries and give a gastronomic twist to your Montserrat day trip with tapas!

Tapas, the Spanish tradition of enjoying small savory dishes alongside drinks at a bar, is another culinary pleasure not to be missed. While wineries often offer tapas to accompany their selections, there are numerous bars in the area that specialize in these distinctive Spanish classics.

What are the opening times?

The Montserrat Monastery is open every day of the week, from 7 AM to 8 PM, while the Throne of Our Lady can be visited from 8 AM to 10:45 AM and then from 12 noon to 6:25 PM. The Boys’ Choir performance takes place at 1 PM, while the Museum of Montserrat operates daily from 10 AM to 5:45 PM.

What time of year should you go to Montserrat?

The best time to visit Montserrat is during spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). These seasons boast comfortable temperatures, fewer crowds, and the natural beauty of the mountain at its finest, with wildflowers blooming in spring or the warm hues of autumn foliage.

While it’s possible to visit throughout the year, the summer months tend to be hotter and more crowded, while winter can be chilly, with unpredictable weather that may affect hiking conditions and visibility.

Travel tips

• The weather on Montserrat can be unpredictable, so it is a good idea to bring along a waterproof jacket or umbrella in case there is a sudden shower.
• Sturdy and comfortable hiking shoes are essential, especially if you plan on exploring any of the trails in the natural park.
• Bringing a picnic can be a delightful option, as there are many scenic spots to enjoy a meal with a view.
• Keep in mind that the monastery is an active religious site, so it is important to respect the privacy of monks and other visitors, especially when it comes to taking photos.