From Barcelona: Montserrat, Girona & Costa Brava in 2 days

Discovering Catalonia in Two Days: Montserrat, Girona & Costa Brava

If you’re looking to get a taste of Catalonia’s diverse charm without spending weeks on the road, this 2-day tour from Barcelona might just be a smart choice. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, it’s designed to pack in some of the region’s most iconic spots—think breathtaking mountain views, medieval streets, and coastal beauty—all with the convenience of guided visits and a comfortable overnight in Girona.

What really draws us to this kind of trip is how it balances structured sightseeing with free time—giving you the chance to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace. Plus, visiting Montserrat’s monastery and the legendary Black Madonna is genuinely special, offering a moment of spiritual calm amid stunning landscapes. We also appreciate how Girona’s night-time transformation offers a quieter, more intimate glimpse of a city that’s often bustling during the day.

That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is quite packed, and if you’re not a big fan of early starts or a busy schedule, it might feel a little rushed. Also, since it’s a group tour, some travelers might find the pace a bit tight, especially if you prefer to explore at a slow, leisurely pace. Still, if you’re eager to see a lot in a short time and enjoy guided insights, this tour could be a perfect fit.

This experience is best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of Catalonia’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s especially good if you’re limited on time but want to see both mountain majesty, medieval streets, and seaside charm—all in just a couple of days.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with guided visits and free time
• Includes overnight stay in Girona, giving a taste of local life
• Stunning views from Montserrat and along the Costa Brava coast
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
• Cultural highlights, including Montserrat Monastery and Girona’s medieval sites
• Flexible options with reservation and cancellation policies

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the 2-Day Tour

When considering a tour like this, what truly matters is how well it balances sightseeing with your comfort. Let’s walk through each part of the trip to see what makes it tick.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour kicks off from Carrer de Martí i Franquès in Barcelona, a central location accessible by metro, bus, or tram. From there, you’re chauffeured in a premium air-conditioned vehicle, which is a relief on warm days or after long walks. The journey between stops is generally about 1 to 1.5 hours, giving you enough time to relax and enjoy the scenic views.

Montserrat Monastery: Spiritual and Scenic Wonder

The first major stop is Montserrat, famous for its needle-shaped mountains and the Benedictine monastery perched atop. The guided visit lasts around 2 hours—here, you’ll get an inside look at the basilica and the Black Madonna, La Moreneta. Seeing her up close is a highlight for many, and the guided tour ensures you don’t miss the significance of this revered figure.

What makes Montserrat truly special is the scenery—the jagged peaks and panoramic vistas are incredible. Many reviews mention the “breath-taking views,” and we agree—that’s what makes this stop worth the early start and the bus ride.

Girona: Medieval Charm in the Evening

After Montserrat, you’ll head to Girona, a city that feels like stepping back in time. Check into a charming boutique hotel in the Old Town, a rare chance to stay overnight in a place that oozes character. The guided walking tour covers the Jewish Quarter, Girona’s Gothic cathedral, and the medieval city walls—sites that are rich in history and atmosphere.

What’s particularly nice is spending the evening in Girona. As day-trippers leave, the city transforms—streetlights cast a warm glow, and the terraces fill with locals and visitors alike. You’ll have free time to wander, enjoy local cuisine, or climb the city walls under the moonlight. Several reviews praise Girona’s quiet beauty after dark, making this a memorable part of the experience.

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Day 2: Leisurely Exploration and Coastal Beauty

Morning in Girona offers a relaxed vibe—perfect for a slow breakfast and a bit of personal exploring. Some travelers enjoy visiting the Jewish History Museum or browsing artisan shops in the Old Town. It’s a great chance to really soak in the city’s atmosphere without rushing.

Around midday, the journey continues to Tossa de Mar, a highlight for lovers of seaside towns. You’ll walk along the medieval castle walls, which afford spectacular views of the bay. The town’s turquoise coves and golden beaches are perfect for a swim or just unwinding with a good book.

The coastal scenery is what many reviews mention as the standout feature of this part of the tour: “Tossa de Mar’s wild coastline and Mediterranean charm are simply captivating.” If you enjoy scenic walks and coastal views, you’ll find plenty to love here.

Returning to Barcelona

Around 8:30 pm, the tour wraps up with the drive back to Barcelona. Expect a full, engaging two days filled with a diverse mix of nature, culture, and history. The overall pace is brisk but manageable, especially if you’re comfortable with guided tours and quick transitions.

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour offers quite a bit for its price. The transportation in air-conditioned vehicles and professional guides ensure you’re comfortable and well-informed. The overnight stay in Girona’s boutique hotel is a real plus—most reviews suggest it’s charming and well-located.

However, meals and drinks are not included, aside from breakfast at the hotel. If you’re looking to enjoy Catalan cuisine, you’ll want to budget for lunches and dinners. Entry to other monuments isn’t included either, so plan on paying extra if you want to go inside specific sites beyond the guided visits.

Value for Money

For a two-day guided experience with transportation, guided visits, and an overnight hotel, the price seems reasonable. You get to see a mix of mountain scenery, medieval streets, and coastal views—covering a lot of ground in a well-organized way. The personalized touches, like free time in Girona and Tossa de Mar, help make the experience feel less rushed.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes—there’s quite a bit of walking on cobbled streets and uneven surfaces.
• Bring a camera or smartphone for capturing those stunning views at Montserrat and along the coast.
• Prepare for some early mornings—the tour starts in the morning and involves a full day of sightseeing.
• Stay hydrated and carry some snacks—the schedule can be tight, and you might find yourself hungry between meals.
• Check the weather forecast—outdoor sites like Montserrat and Tossa de Mar are weather-dependent, and views are best on clear days.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re a traveler eager to see a mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and coastal scenery without the hassle of planning logistics, this tour hits many marks. It’s suitable if you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and like guided tours that maximize your time.

However, if you prefer slow mornings or want to explore deeply at each site, you might find this tour a bit rushed. Travelers who value stunning views and want a well-rounded introduction to Catalonia’s highlights will likely find it satisfying.

FAQ

How long is the bus ride from Barcelona to Montserrat?
It’s about 1.5 hours, giving you some time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What’s included in the tour price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned premium vehicle, guided visits to Montserrat, Girona, and Tossa de Mar, plus 1 night in a boutique hotel with breakfast.

Can I explore Girona at my own pace?
Yes, after the guided tour, you have free time to discover Girona on your own, whether that’s visiting museums, shopping, or just wandering.

Is there any free time in Tossa de Mar?
While the tour includes a guided walk along the coast, you also have about 1.5 hours of free time to relax, swim, or explore.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and some snacks or water for the day.

How does the overnight stay in Girona work?
You stay in a carefully selected boutique hotel in the Old Town, giving you a chance to experience Girona’s evening ambiance.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly mentioned, the itinerary’s pace and walking requirements suggest it’s better suited for older children or teenagers comfortable with walking and guided tours.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if plans change.

In The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Barcelona offers a smart, well-organized way to see some of Catalonia’s most captivating sights—stunning mountain views, medieval streets, and scenic coastlines. The combination of guided visits with free time makes it appealing for travelers who want a structured yet relaxed experience.

If you love picturesque landscapes and enjoy exploring charming towns, you’ll find this tour hits the right notes. It’s especially great if you’re short on time but want a taste of everything—mountains, history, and sea—packed into just a couple of days.

That said, it’s not ideal if you prefer slow-paced travel or want to spend more time inside each site. But for a full, satisfying overview of Catalonia’s highlights in a short timeframe, this tour offers good value and memorable scenery.

Happy travels, and enjoy discovering Catalonia’s beauty—whether from the mountains of Montserrat or the coast of Tossa de Mar.

You can check availability for your dates here: