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

Discover Catalonia’s Highlights in Just 2 Days from Barcelona

This 2-day tour from Barcelona offers a rich taste of Catalonia’s culture, spirituality, and coastline. Priced with inclusive transportation, guided visits, and one night in a boutique hotel in Girona, it’s an ideal choice for those who want a compact yet comprehensive escape. The tour combines iconic landmarks like Montserrat Monastery, the medieval streets of Girona, and the stunning Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava.

While the tour packs in a lot, it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with some walking, as the itinerary involves guided city tours and scenic strolls. The small group experience and flexible free time allow for a personalized touch, making it both educational and relaxing. Keep in mind, meals are not included, so plan for some local dining.

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Key Points

• Highlights Montserrat Monastery with a guided visit, including the Black Madonna
• Overnight in Girona, a city famed for its medieval charm, Roman walls, and vibrant evening atmosphere
• Explore Tossa de Mar’s coastal beauty, walking along castle walls and discovering hidden coves
• Includes transportation in an air-conditioned premium vehicle with a professional guide speaking English and Spanish
• Flexible free time in Girona to explore artisan shops, museums, or simply enjoy local cafes
• 2-3 day experience with options to start on different days, ideal for short getaways

Starting in Barcelona and Reaching Montserrat’s Majestic Peaks

The tour begins at Carrer de Martí i Franquès, 15, a central meeting point accessible by metro, bus, or tram. From there, an air-conditioned premium vehicle transports the group on a 1.5-hour drive into Montserrat, famed for its needle-shaped mountains and spiritual significance.

Guided by an expert, visitors explore the Montserrat Monastery, home to the Black Madonna—La Moreneta—a revered figure in Catalonia. The guide leads a 2-hour visit through the basilica, cloister, and main square, offering insights into the religious and cultural importance of this site. The breathtaking views of the rugged mountain landscape are a standout feature, providing a dramatic backdrop for reflection and photos.

The Enchanting Medieval Atmosphere of Girona

After leaving Montserrat, the tour continues with a 1.5-hour drive to Girona, a city that seems frozen in time. Known for its Roman walls, Gothic cathedral, and labyrinthine Jewish Quarter, Girona offers a walk through history that feels both authentic and engaging.

The guided walking tour covers the most emblematic sites: the Jewish Quarter, the Cathedral, the Eiffel Bridge, and the medieval city walls. Visitors gain a sense of Girona’s past as a crossroads of cultures, with architecture and narrow streets that invite exploration. The city’s transformation after dark adds a special, quieter charm, with locals filling the terraces along the Onyar River and the scent of local cuisine filling the air.

The stay in a boutique hotel in Girona’s Old Town provides a comfortable and charming base for the night. The hotel’s selection emphasizes comfort, character, and location, making it easy to wander and enjoy Girona’s illuminated streets at leisure.

Free Time to Discover Girona’s Hidden Corners

The following morning in Girona offers free time to explore independently. Visitors can visit the Jewish History Museum, browse artisan shops, or relax with a vermut in one of the quiet squares like Plaça del Vi or Plaça de la Independència.

This period of calm mornings allows for a leisurely experience, savoring local Catalan cuisine at a traditional restaurant or cafe. The flexible schedule encourages discovering hidden gems or revisiting favorite spots, all at a relaxed pace before heading south.

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Journey to Costa Brava and Discover Tossa de Mar

Mid-afternoon, the group departs Girona for the Costa Brava, a 45-minute drive into the scenic coastal region. The highlight here is Tossa de Mar, a picture-perfect seaside town renowned for its medieval castle walls that overlook the bay.

The guided 1.5-hour tour of Tossa de Mar includes walks along the castle walls, offering stunning views of the Turquoise Coves and golden beaches. Visitors can choose to swim in the calm waters, browse artisan boutiques, or simply relax on Platja Gran. The town’s blend of wild coastline and Mediterranean charm underscores why Costa Brava remains a favorite for lovers of nature and history alike.

The Comforts of the Tour’s Logistics and Group Experience

This tour provides transportation by a comfortable, air-conditioned premium vehicle, ensuring smooth travel between sites. The professional guides are fluent in English and Spanish, delivering informative commentary that enhances each location’s significance.

The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for personal attention and flexibility. The boutique hotel in Girona is selected for its charm and comfort, and breakfast is included—a nice touch to start each day refreshed. Meals and entrance fees to additional attractions are not included, giving travelers the freedom to choose local dining options.

Timing and Pacing for a Well-Balanced Experience

The 2-3 day itinerary features a well-paced schedule: mornings are dedicated to guided visits, afternoons allow for free exploration, and evenings in Girona reveal a quieter, more intimate side of the city. The early start and late return to Barcelona ensure you get the most out of each location without feeling rushed.

While the tour covers a lot, the inclusion of free time in Girona ensures travelers can relax and enjoy at their own pace. The guided visits are informative but not overwhelming, striking a balance between education and leisure.

Accessibility and Practical Tips

The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and may not be ideal for travelers over 95 years old due to walking and uneven surfaces. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking tours, especially in Girona’s historic streets and Tossa de Mar’s castle walls.

Since meals are not included, bringing some snacks or planning to dine locally is advised. The meeting point is easily accessible, and the return to Barcelona is scheduled for around 8:30 pm on the second day, making it suitable for those with flexible evening plans.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Other Catalonia Trips

This experience emphasizes authenticity and comfort through its curated overnight stay in Girona and guided visits to iconic sites like Montserrat and Tossa de Mar. The small group size and free time in Girona create a more personalized, relaxed atmosphere compared to large bus tours.

The combination of spiritual sites, medieval streets, and coastal scenery makes this tour stand out for travelers seeking a well-rounded taste of Catalonia’s diverse appeal. The timing allows for a deeper appreciation of Girona’s evening ambiance, an advantage over day-trips that rush through.

Ticking All the Boxes for a Short Catalan Getaway

This 2-day tour from Barcelona offers a balanced mix of cultural exploration, natural beauty, and relaxed pace. The inclusion of guided visits, overnight accommodation, and free exploration time makes it an excellent choice for those short on time but eager to experience Catalonia’s highlights.

While some might wish for meals included or more accessibility options, the overall experience delivers a compelling snapshot of the region. Travelers who appreciate stunning views, historical sites, and charming coastal towns will find this tour rewarding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned premium vehicle, a professional guide in English and Spanish, guided visits to Montserrat, Girona, and Tossa de Mar, and one night in a boutique hotel with breakfast.

How long are the guided visits?
The Montserrat Monastery tour lasts about 2 hours, the Girona walking tour around an hour and a half, and the Tossa de Mar sightseeing tour takes about 1.5 hours.

Can I explore Girona at my own pace?
Yes, travelers have free time in Girona after the guided tour, allowing for personal exploration, shopping, or relaxing at local cafes.

Is this tour suitable for children or older adults?
Not suitable for wheelchair users and may be challenging for those over 95 years old due to walking requirements.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, except for breakfast at the hotel.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes for walking, weather-appropriate clothing, and some cash or card for personal expenses or meals.

How do I get to the meeting point?
The starting point is Carrer de Martí i Franquès, 15, accessible by metro, bus, or tram.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
The tour operates year-round, but weather conditions may influence the experience, especially at coastal Tossa de Mar.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience spans 2 to 3 days, depending on your chosen start date and optional extensions.

Can I cancel and get a refund?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

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