Catalonia is a region bursting with diversity—from the energetic streets of Barcelona to the stunning beaches of Costa Brava, and the mystical mountains of Montserrat. During my one-week road trip, I discovered the best of Catalonia, and I’m excited to share this itinerary with you. If you’re looking for a mix of culture, history, nature, and a bit of beach relaxation, then this trip is perfect. So pack your bags, and let’s hit the road!
Day 1: Barcelona – A Dynamic Start
Morning: Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Barcelona. There are loads of landmarks to check out in Barcelona, with most requiring tickets. But my absolute can’t miss? The Sagrada Familia. Make sure to pre-book tickets well in advance, as it’s incredibly popular (and just be aware that tickets are pricey at but it’s worth every penny). I suggest starting your day early to beat the crowds. The interior of this basilica is a masterpiece—stained glass windows bathe the space in a kaleidoscope of colours.
Travel Tip: Make sure your phone is charged and you have your headphones as you can download the audio on your phone.
Afternoon: For lunch, head to El Xampanyet near the Picasso Museum for some authentic tapas and a glass of cava, Spanish champagne. Then, wander through the narrow, winding streets of the Gothic Quarter. Don’t miss La Rambla, but keep a close eye on your belongings—pickpocketing can be an issue here.
Evening: As the sun sets, make your way to the Magic Fountain of Montjuïc for a light and music show that’s a treat for the senses. For dinner, check out Bodega Biarritz 1881 in the Gothic Quarter for more tapas and a lively atmosphere.
Accommodation: I stayed at Magatzem a stylish boutique hotel in the Eixample district, starting at around €110 per night. It also has a great cafe with good coffee and pastries, a little noisy at times for working, but perfect for people watching.
Day 2: Barcelona to Sitges – Coastal Charm
Drive Time: About 40 minutes (42 km)
Morning: Drive down to Sitges, a beautiful coastal town known for its beaches and lively atmosphere. Start your day with a stroll along the Passeig Marítim, Sitges’ seafront promenade lined with palm trees and charming villas.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Fragata, located near the seafront, where you can enjoy seafood paella. After lunch, explore the Museu Cau Ferrat for a taste of local art and culture. While Sitges is lovely, it can be a bit pricey and touristy, so be prepared for slightly higher prices.
Evening: Spend your evening on the beach, perhaps at Platja de la Ribera or one of the more secluded spots further along the coast. End the day with a cocktail at El Gin Tub, a unique bar with an impressive gin collection.
Accommodation: Stay at Hotel MiM Sitges, a modern hotel with a rooftop pool and spa. Rates start at €150 per night. The other option is to spend the day here and skip on to slightly cheaper Tarragona for a night or two.
Day 3: Sitges to Tarragona – Roman Ruins and Mediterranean Views
Drive Time: About 45 minutes (65 km)
Morning: Continue your journey to Tarragona, a city famous for its Roman ruins. Start your visit at the Tarragona Amphitheatre overlooking the sea. The Roman Circus, located nearby, is also worth a visit. Entry fees for each site are around €3.30.
Afternoon: For lunch, head to El Llagut, known for its fresh seafood dishes. While Tarragona has some fantastic historical sites, I found the town itself to be a bit underwhelming. After lunch, consider driving to Platja Llarga, a lovely long beach perfect for a relaxing afternoon.
Evening: In the evening, enjoy a drink at Plaça de la Font, a lively square where you can watch the world go by.
Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Lauria, a centrally located hotel with basic amenities and reasonable prices, starting at around €70 per night.
Day 4: Day Trip to Montserrat – A Spiritual Escape
Drive Time: About 1 hour 15 minutes (90 km)
Morning: Leave Tarragona behind and drive to the breathtaking mountains of Montserrat. The winding drive up to the monastery offers stunning views, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. Once there, visit the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. If possible, time your visit to hear the famous boys’ choir, Escolania de Montserrat, which usually performs at 1 pm during the week (check the schedule ahead of time).
Travel Tip: I suggest taking a packed lunch with you on this day, as food options are few and fair between in Montserrat. Also plan to have some snacks if you decide to go hiking in the afternoon.
Afternoon: Take the Sant Joan Funicular (€13 return ticket) up the mountain for some of the best hiking trails and views over Catalonia. There are a few loops you can take, maps are available for you to decide.
Evening: Either head back early to Tarragona or drive down to the village of Monistrol de Montserrat for a quiet evening. Have dinner at Restaurant Roca de la Vila, which offers traditional Catalan dishes.
Day 5: Tarragona to Girona – Medieval Beauty
Drive Time: About 2 hours (190 km)
Morning: Set off early for Girona, a city steeped in history and charm. Girona is one of my favourite places in Spain. It’s old medieval town feels like stepping back in time and was the film set for many Game of Thrones episodes. Begin with a visit to the Girona Cathedral, then walk along the Passeig de la Muralla, the ancient city walls. I recommend doing this early in the morning to enjoy the sunrise and have the path almost entirely to yourself. You can easily get lost along the little paths, discovering little secret gardens as you go.
Below is a tour I recommend if you want to learn a lot more about this rich history of Girona (or if you’re a nerd like me and just want to see where GOT was filmed!)
Afternoon: After exploring the walls, get lost in the Old Town’s maze-like streets. Have lunch at Nu Restaurant, known for its innovative Catalan dishes. If your sweet tooth hits, then definitely head over to Casa Cacao, where you can get drinks, shakes and pastries—all chocolate of course.
Evening: Visit the Arab Baths and then wander around the Jewish Quarter (El Call), one of the best-preserved in Europe. End your day with dinner at Konig Sandwiches, a local favourite for casual dining.
Accommodation: Stay at Hotel Nord 1901, which combines modern amenities with historic charm. Rates start at €100 per night.
If you have time before you leave or you’re looking for a good breakfast/brunch place, Idle Hands cafe is THE best breakfast place, with great coffee and super friendly staff.
Day 6: Day Trip to Costa Brava – Beachside Bliss
Drive Time: About 1 hour (50 km)
Morning: Head towards the stunning Costa Brava coastline, known for its rugged beauty and crystal-clear waters. Start your day in Tossa de Mar, a charming coastal town with a medieval fortress overlooking the sea. Walk up to the Castell de Tossa de Mar for panoramic views.
Afternoon: For lunch, try Can Carlus for some delicious seafood. Afterward, continue your drive up the coast, stopping at small beach towns like Llafranc or Calella de Palafrugell. Spend your afternoon swimming and sunbathing on one of the many secluded beaches.
Evening: For dinner, head to La Blava in Calella de Palafrugell, which offers beautiful sea views and a delightful menu of local dishes.
Day 7: Girona to Barcelona – A Relaxing Return
Drive Time: About 1 hour 20 minutes (100 km)
Morning: On your final day, stop at Blanes and visit the Marimurtra Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis with over 4,000 plant species and stunning sea views (entrance is about €7).
Afternoon: Arrive back in Barcelona in the early afternoon. If you have time, visit the Poble Espanyol for some last-minute shopping or a relaxed stroll through this unique architectural museum.
Evening: End your trip with a celebratory dinner at Cinc Sentits, a Michelin-starred restaurant that offers an incredible tasting menu (although prices start around €75 per person, it is highly recommended).
Accommodation: If you’re flying out the next day, you could consider staying near the airport at Hotel Barcelona Airport Marriott, which offers convenience and comfort, with rates starting at €110 per night.
Must Know Tips
- Car Hire: I always rent cars from Do You Spain, which always has the best prices. You can even get cars as cheap €5 per day, but booking in advance is always recommended to get the best price.
- Stay Safe in Barcelona: Be mindful of your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas like La Rambla and around major landmarks.
- Timing Your Visit: The best times to visit Catalonia are during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are thinner.
- Packing Essentials: Bring comfortable shoes for walking, and if you’re visiting in summer, bring insect repellent for the mosquitos! And don’t forget swimwear for your Costa Brava adventure.
- Local Cuisine: Try local Catalan dishes like “pa amb tomàquet” (bread with tomato) and “escalivada” (grilled vegetables).
This one-week road trip through Catalonia offers the perfect mix of city life, historical exploration, and beach relaxation. From the bustling streets of Barcelona to the serene beauty of Montserrat and the stunning coastlines of Costa Brava, this itinerary covers the best of what this beautiful region has to offer. Pack your bags, rent a car, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Catalonia!
