Julia Travel Barcelona at Planta baja delante
Get Ready to Explore! Meet your friendly guide at Julià Travel Barcelona (Carrer d'Alí-Bei, 80 Local nº 180 - Planta baja Delante del andén 19 / In front of the Platform 19, 08013 Barcelona, Spain)
59 km
64 minutes
1
Montserrat Monastery
2 attractions
2 activities
Tickets included
Dating back to the 11th century, Montserrat Monastery perches atop distinctive rock formations, attracting visitors to its revered Black Madonna statue. With a millennium of history, the monastery showcases artistic treasures by El Greco and Caravaggio, while the Escolania de Montserrat, Europe's oldest boys' choir, captivates audiences with centuries-old melodies.
1. Ride the Rack Railway
Included in price
Get ready for a unique experience riding the rack railway uphill. You'll soak in the beauty of jagged peaks as you reach a height of over 4,000 feet.
2. Basilica of Montserrat
Tickets included
Listen to fascinating stories of miraculous apparitions as you admire the famous Black Madonna, a 12th-century Romanesque carving. Your timed entry ticket ensures a seamless visit to the Basilica of Montserrat.
3. Museum of Montserrat
Tickets included
Enjoy free time to explore the museum which is a treasure trove of Montserrat's art and history. Enjoy masterpieces by famous artists like Monet, Dali, and Picasso and explore ancient artifacts from civilizations like Mesopotamia, Persia, and Egypt. You can also enjoy locally produced liquors, crafted by the monks themselves!
4. Montserrat audiovisual exhibit
Included in price
Discover the magic of Montserrat in this open-air museum! Explore the legendary Holy Grotto, linked to the miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary. Then, step into the world of "Montserrat Portes Endins," an audiovisual journey that reveals the secrets of the monastery and its surroundings.
2
Julia Travel Barcelona at Planta baja delante
Visit Montserrat and explore its monastery and Black Madonna on a guided tour.
Visit Montserrat and explore its monastery and Black Madonna on a guided tour.
Inclusions
66 km
64 minutes
1
Montserrat Monastery
420 min
3 activities
Free Admission
Dating back to the 11th century, Montserrat Monastery perches atop distinctive rock formations, attracting visitors to its revered Black Madonna statue. With a millennium of history, the monastery showcases artistic treasures by El Greco and Caravaggio, while the Escolania de Montserrat, Europe's oldest boys' choir, captivates audiences with centuries-old melodies.
1. Rack-railway ride
Included in price
The rack-railway is one of the highest in Europe, ascending over 1,000 meters. The ride not only provides stunning panoramic views of the mountains but also gives you a taste of local history, as it has been in operation since the early 20th century.
For the best experience, sit on the left side of the train to catch the most stunning views of the Montserrat peaks.
2. Vineyard visit
Included in price
Discover a charming boutique winery set within a 10th-century castle, proudly maintained by the same family for 36 generations. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in local Catalan and Spanish traditions, starting with a guided tour of the estate, where history and picturesque vineyards intertwine.
3. Authentic Catalan lunch
Lunch
Select the lunch option that suits you best: a spread of traditional tapas or a 3-course meal made with fresh regional ingredients. Pair it with local wines for a true Catalan experience.
4. Wine tasting
Included in price
Sip on 3 distinct wines, locally produced from indigenous grape varieties unique to the region as you learn about the origin and characteristics of valley wines.
2
Explore Montserrat and enjoy a guided tasting experience paired with a local farmhouse lunch.
Explore Montserrat and enjoy a guided tasting experience paired with a local farmhouse lunch.
Inclusions
Carrer de Martí i Franquès, 15, Les Corts, 08028 Barcelona
The experience begins at Carrer de Martí i Franquès, 15, a convenient central meeting point in Barcelona. This pick-up point is easily accessible by public transport.
54 km
90 minutes
1
Montserrat Monastery
120 min
Tickets included
Stop at the breathtaking Montserrat Monastery, nestled in the Montserrat mountain range. Explore this centuries-old Benedictine abbey, home to the revered Black Madonna statue. Take in panoramic views, visit the basilica, and experience the spiritual essence of Catalonia’s most famous pilgrimage site. Enjoy free time to explore, take photos, or soak in the serene atmosphere.
138 km
1 hour 45 minutes
2
Girona
180 min
Free Admission
Stop at the historic city of Girona, known for its medieval charm and well-preserved Jewish Quarter. Walk along the ancient city walls for stunning views and explore the colorful houses lining the Onyar River. Visit iconic landmarks like the Girona Cathedral, featured in Game of Thrones. Enjoy free time to stroll through cobbled streets, discovering hidden gems and local cafés.
40 km
50 minutes
3
Costa Brava
75 min
Free Admission
Stop at Tossa de Mar, a picturesque coastal town on the Costa Brava, known for its stunning beaches and medieval charm. Explore the Vila Vella, the only preserved medieval walled town on the Catalan coast, offering breathtaking sea views. Stroll through charming cobbled streets, lined with quaint shops and seafood restaurants. Relax on the golden sands or take in the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.
103 km
90 minutes
4
Av. Diagonal, 355, L’Eixample, 08037 Barcelona
End your journey at Av. Diagonal, 355, a central location in Barcelona’s vibrant Eixample district. This area is known for its stunning modernist architecture, upscale shopping, and lively atmosphere.
Explore Montserrat, Girona & Costa Brava in one seamless day trip from Barcelona.
Explore Montserrat, Girona & Costa Brava in one seamless day trip from Barcelona.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Meeting Point
Meet your expert guide at Roger de Llúria, 117, for a warm welcome. Get ready for a scenic journey to Montserrat.
2 km
10 minutes
1
Montserrat National Park
60 min
Tickets included
Ride through Montserrat National Park on horseback for an hour, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. Enjoy a peaceful and scenic journey led by experienced guides.
Horse ride
2
Montserrat Monastery
Tickets included
Arrive at Montserrat and explore its historic Benedictine Monastery, a spiritual and cultural landmark. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria de Montserrat, learn about the monks' way of life, and take in the stunning panoramic views from the mountaintop.
3
End Point
Conclude your journey at El Corte Inglés on Gran Via de Carles III, a convenient central location. Take time to explore the area, grab a snack, or shop before heading back.
Guided monastery tour & horseback ride in Montserrat with round-trip transport from Barcelona.
Guided monastery tour & horseback ride in Montserrat with round-trip transport from Barcelona.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Meeting Point
Calle Roger de Llúria, 117, in L'Eixample, Barcelona, serves as a convenient meeting point in the city center. Easily accessible by public transport, it’s surrounded by cafes and landmarks, making it a great starting spot for your tour.
59 km
60 minutes
1
Montserrat
60 min
3 attractions
Tickets included (based on selection)
1. Montserrat National Park
75 min
Tickets included
Enjoy a scenic 75-minute walk through the stunning landscapes of Montserrat.
2. Montserrat Monastery
Tickets included
Extend your visit with an in-depth guided tour of the monastery’s art and architecture.
3. Black Madonna
Tickets included (based on selection)
Upgrade to visit the revered La Moreneta, Catalonia’s patron saint, with an expert guide.
2
End Point
Gran Via de Carles III, 100, in Les Corts, Barcelona, serves as the tour’s endpoint. Conveniently located, it offers easy access to public transport and nearby city attractions.
Guided hike in Montserrat’s natural park with monastery visit and transport from Barcelona.
Guided hike in Montserrat’s natural park with monastery visit and transport from Barcelona.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Meeting Point
Conveniently located near Plaça de Catalunya, Hotel Regina offers an easy and central meeting point. Its prime location ensures quick access to transport links for a smooth start to your Montserrat adventure.
56 km
60 minutes
Pla de Bages
Montserrat Monastery
3
Meeting Point
Soar over Montserrat in a hot air balloon, then explore its monastery with a guide.
Soar over Montserrat in a hot air balloon, then explore its monastery with a guide.
Inclusions
Exclusions
Standing high in the Montserrat mountains, this centuries-old monastery is one of Spain’s most famous spiritual sites. Inside, you’ll find the Black Madonna, a statue said to grant wishes to those who touch her. Whether you’re here for faith or fascination, walking through the monastery’s grand halls and listening to the angelic voices of the L'Escolania Boys’ Choir (if performing) is a moment to remember.
Why stop at just Montserrat? Extend your adventure with a tour that includes Girona and Costa Brava, two of Catalonia’s most stunning destinations. Walk through Girona’s medieval streets, spot Game of Thrones filming locations, and explore one of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish Quarters. Then, unwind on Costa Brava’s golden beaches, take in the dramatic cliffs, or dive into its crystal-clear waters. It’s the ultimate way to experience Catalonia in one unforgettable day.
Montserrat isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a treat for the taste buds, too! Stop by the local farmers’ market to sample handmade cheeses, honey, and herbal liqueurs, or try the famous “Coca de Montserrat” pastry for a sweet local delight. If you’re a wine lover, take your experience up a notch with a wine-tasting tour, where you’ll sip on exquisite Catalan wines at a beautiful vineyard while enjoying delicious tapas.
Montserrat restaurants
Montserrat has long been a place of pilgrimage and introspection. If you’re looking for a deeper connection, consider joining a meditation or spiritual retreat led by local monks. Some retreats offer guided silent walks, allowing you to experience the mountain’s mystical energy in a truly unique way.
For an unforgettable view, take a hot air balloon ride over Montserrat at sunrise. As you float above the jagged peaks and rolling countryside, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the monastery, the winding trails, and the stunning Catalan landscape. It’s a magical experience perfect for photographers, couples, or anyone looking for a truly unique way to see Montserrat.
Swap traditional sightseeing for a horseback riding tour through Montserrat’s scenic countryside. Guided rides take you along peaceful trails with stunning views of the mountains, allowing you to explore the region at a relaxed pace while connecting with nature. It’s an offbeat way to enjoy Montserrat’s beauty beyond the usual monastery visit.
The three primary modes of transportation are:
Once in Montserrat, visitors can ascend to the monastery via two main options Cable Car and Rack Railway (cogwheel train)
Not satisfied with the options? Click here for more transportation options from Barcelona to Montserrat to ensure a hassle-free journey!
Lunch break: Have a meal at Restaurant Abat Cisneros for Catalan cuisine or enjoy a picnic with local cheese, honey, and pastries from Montserrat’s farmers’ market.
Visit Santa Cova (Optional): Take the Santa Cova Funicular and walk to the Santa Cova Chapel, where legend says the Black Madonna was discovered.
Offbeat Montserrat experiences: Try an adventure activity like:
Free time & souvenir shopping: Browse the artisan market for monastery-made honey, cheese, and unique gifts.
Montserrat is approximately 60 km (37 miles) northwest of Barcelona, and it takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach by train, car, or guided tour.
You can travel to Montserrat by train (R5 from Plaça Espanya), car, or guided tour. If taking the train, you’ll need to choose between the rack railway (Cremallera) or cable car (Aeri de Montserrat) to reach the monastery.
The best time to visit is early in the morning (before 10am) or late afternoon (after 3pm) to avoid crowds. Spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer the most pleasant weather for sightseeing and hiking.
A half-day trip (4–5 hours) is enough for the monastery, Black Madonna, and short hikes. A full-day trip (7–9 hours) allows time for museum visits, longer hikes, and adventure activities like rock climbing or horseback riding.
No, the Escolania Boys’ Choir performs Monday to Friday at 1pm and Sundays at 12pm. They do not perform on Saturdays or school holidays.
Yes! Montserrat offers hikes of varying difficulty, from the Santa Cova trail (45 minutes round trip) to the Sant Jeroni peak (3-hour round trip) with panoramic views.
Wear comfortable walking shoes for exploring. If visiting the monastery, modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) is recommended. Layers are advised due to changing mountain weather.
Comfortable clothing is the way to go here. Having said that, no trip to Montserrat is complete without a visit to the monastery. There is a dress code in place- Shirts or blouses should cover your shoulders. Sleeveless shirts are acceptable as long as the neckline isn’t too deep. Shorts and skirts should at least reach mid-thigh. Avoid ripped jeans or anything too revealing (showing too much skin).
Yes, most areas of Montserrat, including the monastery, Black Madonna, and museum, are wheelchair accessible. However, some hiking trails and funiculars may be challenging.
Yes! Montserrat is family-friendly, with funicular rides, short hikes, and open spaces for kids to explore. The Montserrat Rack Railway is a scenic and enjoyable way to reach the monastery.
