Barcelona is one of the few cities in Spain that can boast of having it all: beaches, gastronomy, the best of a big city and an incredible cultural offering. And, of course, there are also lots of places near Barcelona that are worth a road trip.
If you are visiting Barcelona, you should know that there are many more interesting spots just a short hop from the Catalan capital. In any case, the most comfortable way to get there is by car, either because there aren't great public transport connections or because they are best enjoyed at your own pace.
Sitges, one of the best places near Barcelona to visit by car
Just 25 miles from Barcelona, Sitges is a town with sea, leisure activities and a modernist aesthetic. This coastal paradise is home to a beautiful old town, a promenade full of mansions and more than 15 beaches.
It is one of the top places near Barcelona to reach by car, especially if you want to visit the most beautiful coves, like Cala Morisca or Playa del Garraf.
Montserrat
Montserrat is one of the great symbols of Catalonia, and is less than 40 miles from the capital. Its mountainous landscape and Benedictine monastery attracts thousands of visitors every year.
Taking the car is the most comfortable way to get there, because you can drive through the different access points to the mountain, park in the areas closest to the trails and climb up to the viewpoints.
Rupit i Pruit
About 60 miles from Barcelona lies this small medieval village that looks like something straight out of a fairy tale. Its cobblestone streets, stone houses and the famous suspension bridge will take you back in time.
Public transport is not really an option here, so you can only really enjoy it if you take the car. What's more, the journey (with a road that winds through mountains and forests) is all part of the experience of visiting Rupit i Pruit.
Cardona
The town of Cardona is home to two gems: the medieval castle and the Montaña de Sal Cultural Park. You can visit both places in the same day if you go by car.
Located inland, this place is difficult to reach by public transport. A climb to the top of its fortress is well worth the effort, because the panoramic views are spectacular.
Costa Brava
The Costa Brava is simply one of the places near Barcelona that you must visit. Some towns are almost 75 miles away, but it is one of the most recommended destinations. Visit Calella de Palafrugell or Tamariu, with its seafaring past and white houses facing out to sea.
Also worth a trip are Cadaqués and Empuriabrava. The car's greatest benefit is that you can easily visit the coves, which are far from the main beaches and less crowded.
Vic, another of the most beautiful places near Barcelona to reach by car
Located a little over 40 miles from Barcelona, Vic is famous for its porticoed main square and its medieval market. The cathedral, for example, mixes Gothic and Baroque styles. And you cannot miss out on the gastronomy, following the tradition of cured meats.
Getting there by car is a breeze and, in addition, you can take advantage of the visit to go to nearby towns and villages in the Osona region.
Besalú
Besalú is renowned for being one of the most beautiful medieval villages in Spain. Its Romanesque bridge over the Fluvià river and its well-preserved historic town centre are certainly imposing.
You can reach it by car without too much hassle, as it is situated only 80 miles from Barcelona. You can also visit other nearby destinations in La Garrotxa, such as the volcanic area of Olot.
Montseny Natural Park
About 40 miles from Barcelona, Montseny is a protected area that has been declared a Biosphere Reserve. In fact, its beech and oak forests are a paradise for hiking and picnicking.
There are several access points and routes, as well as mountain villages along the way that you will love, such as Viladrau. The best way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the big city in less than an hour.
Llobregat Delta
This protected natural area is about 10 miles from the centre of Barcelona. There you will find lagoons, dunes and viewpoints that are perfect for watching migratory birds.
Although it is very close to the city of Barcelona, going by car is the best way to discover different areas of the delta and access less popular areas. It is definitely one of the best places near Barcelona to visit by car.
Tarragona
Finally, a little over 60 miles to the south lies the city of Tarragona. Not everyone knows about its stunning Roman legacy, with its amphitheatre, circus and walls recognised as a World Heritage Site. Stroll around the old town, visit the cathedral and rest at a nearby beach on the Costa Daurada.
The best way to discover the city and the surrounding area is to rent a car with in Barcelona, either at the Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, at Sants train station or on Passeig de Gracia.
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