Barcelona: Tour Besalu, Rupit and Vic

This 9-hour private tour from Barcelona offers a compelling journey through Catalonia’s medieval heart, visiting the historic towns of Besalú, Rupit, and Vic. Priced at $340 per person, this experience is ideal for those interested in exploring well-preserved medieval architecture, scenic landscapes, and ancient monuments. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a small group of up to 15 participants, and guided visits led by knowledgeable guides speaking Arabic, Spanish, and English.

While the tour provides a comprehensive look at the region’s history and charm, it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy walking through historic towns and are prepared for a full day of sightseeing. The 9-hour duration means there’s a good balance of exploration and scenic stops, but it’s important to wear comfortable shoes and be ready for some walking through cobblestone streets. The tour does not include lunch or snacks, so planning for meals in advance is recommended.

Key Points

• Includes hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience in central Barcelona.
• Visit three historic towns: Besalú, Rupit, and Vic, each with unique medieval features.
• Guided tours in multiple languages with a knowledgeable guide-driver.
• Scenic stop at Mirador del Santuario del Far offers stunning views of Sau reservoir and surrounding forests.
• Small group of up to 15 participants ensures a more personalized experience.
• Duration of 9 hours balances travel, sightseeing, and free time for exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Besalú’s Medieval Heritage and Roman Bridge

The tour begins in Barcelona, with a pickup included, and heads straight to Besalú, a town believed to have been established in the eleventh century. The highlight here is the Roman bridge, rebuilt in the fourteenth century after civil war damage, featuring two angled spans and a central tower with a small arch.

Walking through Besalú’s streets, you’ll notice the well-preserved facades and medieval layout. The visit includes ecclesiastical monuments like Sant Pere, Santa Maria, and Sant Vicenç churches, which blend Romanesque and Gothic styles. The Jewish quarter is also part of the visit, where you can see medieval baths used for Jewish ritual ablutions, adding a layer of historical depth to your walk. This part of the tour emphasizes the town’s layered history and architectural beauty.

Discovering Rupit’s Medieval Charm and Stone Houses

Next, the tour moves to Rupit, renowned for its medieval ambiance and stone houses built in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Despite being over 400 years old, these well-preserved buildings still exude authentic medieval charm. Visitors have the opportunity to walk along narrow, cobbled streets that showcase the town’s historical character.

A key highlight is the opportunity to stop for lunch in Rupit, allowing for a break amid the town’s picturesque surroundings. The town’s ambiance, with its old stone architecture and quaint atmosphere, makes it a favorite for those interested in seeing a true medieval village.

Scenic Views from Mirador del Santuario del Far

On the way from Rupit to Vic, the tour makes a scenic stop at the Mirador del Santuario del Far. This viewpoint offers breathtaking views of the Sau reservoir, a large natural space that rises above the Sau valley and the Osona plain. The area is rich in forests and birdlife, including birds of prey, making it a scenic and natural highlight of the day.

This stop provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the regional landscape. The views are especially striking and contribute to the overall sense of connection with Catalonia’s natural landscape.

Walking Through Vic’s Medieval City Center

The final major stop is Vic, a city known for its historic and monumental core. The medieval center is centered around Plaça Major, an attractive square lined with gothic and modern-style buildings. Among these are Casa Beuló with its gothic architecture and Casa Tolosa, showcasing more contemporary style.

The tour includes visits to the ruins of Palau dels Montcada, remnants of an ancient Roman temple from the second century A.D., and the prehistoric site of Sant Bartolomeu Sesgorgues. Using a walking tour, visitors see monumental buildings and ancient ruins that reveal Vic’s long history from Roman times through medieval periods.

More Great Tours Nearby

Transport, Group Size, and Tour Logistics

All transportation during the day occurs in a vehicle adapted to the number of participants, ensuring comfort for small groups. The private group size of up to 15 participants fosters a more intimate experience and allows for flexible pacing.

The pickup and drop-off service is arranged directly with the tour guide, making logistics straightforward. The tour includes guided commentary in Arabic, Spanish, and English, with audio guides available in German, Portuguese, Italian, and French for added language support.

Practical Tips for Tour Participants

Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, as exploring the towns involves walking on cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces. Other recommended items include sunglasses, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing depending on the season. Since lunch is not included, it’s advisable to plan ahead or bring snacks for the day.

Booking in advance is essential to secure a spot, especially given the limited group size. The tour offers a flexible cancelation policy—free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour provides a comprehensive day trip to some of Catalonia’s most picturesque medieval towns, with expert guidance and scenic views along the way. The combination of historic sites, charming villages, and natural vistas makes it appealing for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and lovers of scenic countryside.

While the tour does not include meals, the stops at Besalú, Rupit, and Vic allow plenty of time for dining in local cafes or restaurants. The small group setting ensures a more personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and explore each site at a relaxed pace.

The Sum Up: An Authentic Medieval Day Trip from Barcelona

This private tour offers a well-rounded experience of Catalonia’s medieval towns, highlighting Besalú’s Roman heritage, Rupit’s preserved stone streets, and Vic’s historic city center. The scenic views at Mirador del Santuario del Far add a natural touch, balancing history with landscape.

The 9-hour itinerary is ideal for those seeking to escape the city and discover Catalonia’s rich historical fabric in a comfortable, guided setting. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate small-group interactions and detailed guided commentary.

This tour provides a solid balance of history, scenery, and culture, making it a worthwhile choice for anyone interested in Catalonia’s medieval roots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of $340 per person?
The price covers hotel pickup and drop-off, a guided tour with a tour guide-driver, transportation in a vehicle suitable for the group size, and visits to Besalú, Rupit, and Vic.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour involves walking and visiting historic sites, it can be suitable for families with children who are comfortable with walking and exploring small towns.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides speak Arabic, Spanish, and English, with audio guides in German, Portuguese, Italian, and French.

How long is the free cancellation policy?
Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, lunch and snacks are not included, but stops are scheduled for meals or refreshments in Rupit and Vic.

What should I bring for the tour?
Participants should bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing depending on the season.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby