Montserrat, Girona and Costa Brava in 2 Days from Barcelona

Discover the Charm of Montserrat, Girona, and Costa Brava in Just Two Days

This 2-day small-group tour from Barcelona offers an opportunity to experience Catalonia’s cultural and natural highlights with comfort and depth. Priced at $420.32 per person, the tour includes visits to Montserrat’s spiritual sanctuary, the medieval streets of Girona, and the coastal beauty of Tossa de Mar on the Costa Brava.

What makes this tour particularly appealing is its extended itinerary, providing more time and relaxed exploration compared to shorter excursions. With a professional English-speaking guide and boutique or 4-star hotel accommodation in Girona, it caters to those who want a comprehensive yet comfortable experience of this vibrant region. However, travelers should be aware that meals (besides breakfast) and entry to additional attractions are not included, so some planning may be necessary.

This tour suits culture lovers, history enthusiasts, and those craving scenic coastal views. The group size is limited to 30 travelers, ensuring a personal touch and attentive guide service. The flexible cancellation policy adds peace of mind for those planning well in advance.

Key Points

• Two-day guided experience visiting Montserrat, Girona, and Tossa de Mar.
• Includes hotel stay in Girona with breakfast, guided visits to each location.
• Professional guides offer detailed explanations of historic and cultural sites.
• Comfortable transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with a small group.
• Free time in Girona allows personalized exploration.
• Tour departs from Barcelona at 8:30 am and returns by 8:30 pm on the second day.

Easy Access from Barcelona with Clear Meeting Points

The tour starts at Carrer de Martí i Franquès, 15, Les Corts, Barcelona, with the meeting scheduled for 8:30 am. It concludes at Av. Diagonal, 355, L’Eixample, with an estimated return between 8 pm and 8:30 pm. The nearby public transportation makes it simple to reach the meeting point, and the group size is capped at 30 to maintain a friendly, manageable experience.

The transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during long drives, especially on the second day when traveling from Tossa de Mar back to Barcelona. The professional guide accompanies the group throughout, providing insights into each stop’s significance.

Montserrat: A Mountain Monastery with Spiritual Power

The journey begins with a visit to Montserrat, renowned for its Benedictine monastery and the Black Madonna La Moreneta. The two-hour stop allows visitors to marvel at the spectacular mountain scenery and the monastery’s religious artifacts. Admission to Montserrat is free, but the guide explains the history and cultural importance of this spiritual site.

Expect to see breathtaking views from the mountain, with ample time to explore the church and surroundings. The Black Madonna is a highlight, drawing visitors seeking spiritual reflection or simply stunning photo opportunities. This stop offers a balanced mix of nature and faith, making it ideal for those interested in Catalonia’s spiritual heritage.

Girona’s Medieval Streets and Artistic Heritage

Upon arriving in Girona, the medieval atmosphere is immediately palpable. The city’s Roman walls, Gothic cathedral, and labyrinthine Jewish quarter reveal layers of history that stretch back centuries. The 10-hour stay on the first day lets you absorb the atmosphere at a leisurely pace, with some free time to wander.

The guided visit covers key sites, but the flexibility in the schedule means you can also enjoy exploring artisan shops or sampling local cuisine. The Jewish History Museum provides extra insight into Girona’s diverse past, and the charming streets are perfect for photos and discovering hidden corners.

Girona: An Evening of Personal Exploration

The second day in Girona begins with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel, followed by more free time to continue exploring. Visitors can choose to revisit favorite spots, browse local shops, or simply soak in the ambiance of this well-preserved medieval city. This extended time enhances the overall experience, allowing for more personalized discovery.

The hotel stay in a boutique or 4-star hotel ensures a comfortable night with breakfast included. The peaceful setting makes it easy to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing.

Scenic Drive to Tossa de Mar and the Costa Brava

Later in the afternoon, the tour heads to Tossa de Mar, a coastal town renowned for its medieval castle walls and seaside charm. The 1 hour and 30 minutes stop provides a chance to walk along the castle walls, which are the only ones by the sea in the region, offering dramatic views of the coastline.

Tossa de Mar’s medieval fortress, combined with its beautiful beaches, creates a perfect mix of history and relaxation. The guide shares stories about the town’s history, and the scenery makes for great photos. This stop showcases the unique blend of medieval architecture and seaside beauty that defines the Costa Brava.

Return Journey and Practical Details

Following the Tossa de Mar visit, the bus departs for Barcelona, taking approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. The return is scheduled between 8 pm and 8:30 pm, giving you a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed. The return location is conveniently positioned in the city’s central area, facilitating easy access to your accommodation or next destination.

The tour includes travel insurance and customer assistance, ensuring peace of mind. The small group setting, combined with expert guidance, guarantees a more personal and engaging experience.

The Experience Guides: Knowledgeable and Friendly

The tour is led by professional guides who speak English fluently, ensuring clear explanations throughout each stop. The review mentions Bosco and Isabel as amazing guides, praised for their knowledge and engaging storytelling. Their ability to share cultural insights and local stories enhances the overall experience, making history and scenery come alive.

The bus driver is also appreciated, with Simon specifically noted as a great driver, contributing to a smooth and comfortable ride on the busy roads.

Value and Booking Considerations

Priced at $420.32 per person, this tour offers guided visits, hotel accommodation, and transportation in a single package. The extended itinerary provides more in-depth exploration than many shorter tours, making it a good value for those wanting a richer experience.

Booking is recommended around 57 days in advance, reflecting its popularity. The full refund policy up to 6 days before adds flexibility for planning. Keep in mind that meals (besides breakfast) and additional entry fees are not included, so budget accordingly for food and any extra attractions.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals to those who want a relaxed pace with ample free time in Girona and scenic visits to Montserrat and Costa Brava. It’s perfect for history buffs, spirituality seekers, and coastal scenery lovers looking for a comprehensive snapshot of Catalonia. The small group size and expert guides ensure an engaging and personalized experience.

Final Thoughts on the Montserrat, Girona, and Costa Brava Tour

This 2-day experience offers a well-rounded look at some of Catalonia’s most iconic sites with convenience and comfort. The guided visits to Montserrat’s monastery, medieval Girona, and the coastal charm of Tossa de Mar highlight the region’s diverse appeal. The hotel stay in Girona and limited group size enhance the experience, making it more intimate and flexible.

While meals (besides breakfast) and extra attractions are not included, the overall value and quality of guides and sites make this tour a compelling choice for those eager to explore Catalonia beyond Barcelona. It’s particularly suited for culture, history, and scenery enthusiasts who prefer a relaxed yet comprehensive itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The tour includes guided visits to Montserrat, Girona, and Tossa de Mar, hotel accommodation in Girona with breakfast, air-conditioned transport, a professional English-speaking guide, travel insurance, and customer assistance.

What is not included?
Meals and drinks besides breakfast, entry to attractions not listed as included, optional activities, city taxes, and personal expenses or tips are not part of the package.

How long is each stop?
Montserrat is approximately 2 hours, Girona’s main visit lasts 10 hours on the first day, with additional free time on the second day, and Tossa de Mar is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.

What is the departure time?
The tour departs at 8:30 am from Barcelona and returns by approximately 8:30 pm on the second day.

Is this tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed for small groups. It involves some walking and sightseeing but is generally accessible.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellation is possible up to 6 days in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 6 days before are not refunded.

How do I book this tour?
Booking can be done through the provider, World Experience, with confirmation received immediately upon booking.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of cultural sites, scenic drives, and flexible free time, along with expert guides and comfortable hotel stay, creates a well-rounded experience of Catalonia’s highlights.