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From happy customers

Loved by 35 million+
Christopher Davies

Christopher

Mar 2025
The location was great and our guide was very knowledgeable, answered questions and guided us through the experience. It started off a little confusing because of the 3 groups but we worked it out. The meal was excellent. The only down side, the rack-railway? Was this the funacular as we paid for this ourselves. Also not really a full day with just 1hr45 free time. I would have loved to do the walks but time was limited, I would describe this trip as more of a 2/3 of a day.
Gudmundur Otti Einarsson
IS

Gudmundur

Iceland
Jun 2025
Montserrat is a wonderful and a peaceful place. It was easy to book online with Julia travel. Our guide (Ivan) was absolutely fantastic - he was fun, lively and informative.
Keila Fontanez
US

Keila

United States
Apr 2025
My tour guide MK was super engaging, we learned so much from him. He was super attentive making sure the group stayed together before breaktime, which made the whole experience seemless for us.
Victoria Leontieva

Victoria

Mar 2025
Montserat is impresive plsce,Great for lovers of active recreation in nature.if you come with car,then I recommended to buy tickets for early hours .
Waybon Wells
US

Waybon

United States
Nov 2024
Montserrat was very moving from a spiritual and natural beauty perspective. Having all my arrangements in advance made it seamless.
Lily Lin
US

Lily

United States
Jun 2025
Site visit was good, the train was a mess and the small tot train also had limited seats! I did NOT like to fight for a seat both up and down to Monserrat! Don't oversell!
John Barratt
NZ

John

New Zealand
May 2025
Easy access to tickets, process was very well documented and easy! If anyone has time on their visit to Barcelona, I'd highly recommend getting out of the city for the day to experience this amazing place, the views are incredible, we spent a good 2-3 hours wandering in the hills of Monserrate.

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Why take a Barcelona to Montserrat Monastery day trip?

Black Madonna statue inside Montserrat Monastery, Catalonia, Spain.
Horse riding tour with scenic views of Montserrat mountains, Spain.
Montserrat monastery with funicular railway in the foreground, nestled in the rugged Catalonian mountains.
Holy Cave of Montserrat near Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey in Montserrat mountains, Spain
Visitor woman smiling on art gallery collection in front framed paintings pictures on white wall
Tourists hiking with guide towards Montserrat Monastery in Spain.
Cableway, Montserrat monastery on mountain in Barcelona, Catalon.
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See the Black Madonna

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.

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Enjoy unique experiences

Why stick to the usual when you can experience Montserrat in a completely new way? Saddle up for a horseback ride through the peaceful Catalan countryside, where rolling hills and gentle landscapes create the perfect backdrop. Or, if you’re feeling extra adventurous, take to the skies in a hot air balloon for a flight over Montserrat’s jagged peaks. Watching the sun light up the mountain from above is nothing short of magical.

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Scenic transport options

Getting to Montserrat is part of the fun! The cogwheel train winds its way up the mountainside, offering incredible views as you ascend. Once there, hop on the Sant Joan Funicular to go even higher for jaw-dropping views of the monastery and beyond. Prefer a stress-free ride? Many guided tours offer private transport, so you can sit back, relax, and soak in the views without worrying.

Discover hidden chapels

Step away from the main paths and visit the Santa Cova Chapel, a sanctuary built into the cliffs, believed to be the original resting place of the Black Madonna. Another lesser-known gem is the Sant Benet Monastery, a quiet retreat with stunning views, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the crowds.

Explore Montserrat Museum’s collection

While most visitors come for the monastery, few realize that the Montserrat Museum houses an unexpected treasure trove of artwork. Beyond religious artifacts, you'll find pieces by Dalí, Monet, Caravaggio, and even ancient Egyptian relics. It’s a fascinating detour for art lovers looking for something beyond the spiritual history of Montserrat.

Hike to secluded viewpoints

Take a scenic hike to St. Michael's Cross from the abbey grounds. The trail starts near the Santa Cova funicular station and takes about 20 minutes each way. It's a bit hilly but totally worth it for the views, especially of the abbey snuggled among towering mountains. If you're up for a challenge, trek to Cavall Bernat, a rock formation popular among climbers. The trails leading to these spots are quieter, making them perfect for those who want to experience Montserrat’s beauty in solitude.

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Ride the Funiculars

To reach the monastery, you can take either the cable car from 'Aeri de Montserrat' or the rack railway from 'Monistrol de Montserrat.' Once there, you can hop on the 'Sant Joan' funicular for an even higher viewpoint or the 'Santa Cova' funicular to visit the Holy Cave of Montserrat, where the Virgin of Montserrat was said to have appeared.

Know before you book: Choosing the right Montserrat day trip

  • Enjoy a hassle-free visit with a tour that includes round-trip transport and a guide!
  • Want something beyond the usual? Opt for a horse ride, through Montserrat’s trails or a breathtaking hot air balloon flight over the Catalan countryside for a once-in-a-lifetime perspective.
  • If scenic views are a priority, book a tour with a cogwheel train transfer —the ride up the mountainside is breathtaking.
  • Want to pair your adventure with local flavors? Choose a tour with a Catalan food experience, such as a traditional farmhouse lunch or tapas brunch with wine—perfect for food and wine lovers.
  • Do you love to hike? Book a scenic hike ticket to explore Montserrat’s scenic trails with a professional mountain guide, taking in breathtaking views and unique rock formations!
  • Maximize your Montserrat experience and visit three places with one ticket! Discover the majestic Montserrat Monastery, wander through Girona's enchanting medieval streets, and unwind along the breathtaking Costa Brava coastline.

​Plan your visit to Montserrat

Offbeat things to do in Montserrat

Costa Brava Barelona

Combine Montserrat with Girona & Costa Brava

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 street vendor preparing local delicacy on a bustling market street.

Taste local food at the farmers’ market

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 Monastery with tourists on a guided tour, surrounded by mountain views, Barcelona, Spain.

Join a spiritual retreat or meditation session

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.

Tourists in a hot air balloon over Montserrat, Spain, with mountain views.

Soar over Montserrat in a hot air balloon

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.

Horse riding tour with guide in Montserrat, Spain, showcasing scenic mountain trails.

Experience Montserrat on horseback

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.

Barcelona to Montserrat day trip map

The three primary modes of transportation are:

  • Car: Driving is a scenic option that takes about an hour along the A-2 motorway. 
  • Bus: A direct bus service from Estació Sants takes approximately 90 minutes, 
  • Train: The most popular method is taking the R5 train from Plaça España, which takes around an hour to reach the foot of Montserrat.

Once in Montserrat, visitors can ascend to the monastery via two main options Cable Car and Rack Railway (cogwheel train)

How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona?

View of the Montserrat Rack Railway leaving the station and heading towards the mountain-top Monastery

Train and Rack Railway (cogwheel)

  • Who’s this for: This is the most popular and convenient option, offering a scenic journey with good travel times.
  • Take the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) R5 line from Barcelona's Plaça Espanya station to Monistrol de Montserrat (around 1 hour). Here, transfer to the Cremallera cremallera train, a rack railway that takes you up the mountain to the monastery (20 minutes).
More about the Montserrat Rack Railway
Montserrat Monastery nestled in rocky mountain landscape through cable car, Catalonia, Spain.

Train and Cable Car (Aeri)

  • Who’s this for: Great choice for those who want a more exciting ascent with scenic views. Fear of heights? Um, maybe, sit out of this?
  • Similar to option 1, take the R5 line to Barcelona's Plaça Espanya station to Aeri de Montserrat (around 1 hour). Here, transfer to the Aeri cable car, which whisks you up the mountain to the top (5 minutes).
Couple getting onto the bus

Bus

  • Who’s this for: This is a budget-friendly option, but it's also the slowest and requires transfers.
  • Take either Autocares Julia which departs from Barcelona Sants Station daily at 9:15am and drops you off right at the monastery plaza or Bages Express which drops you off at Monistrol de Montserrat, where you can transfer to the rack railway for the final ascent. This is a good option if you want to enjoy a combination of bus and mountain train travel.
Montserrat mountain view with historic monastery and scenic landscape.

Car

  • Who’s this for: If you prefer flexibility and control over your journey, driving to Montserrat is an option.
  • Take the A-2 or AP-7 motorways, exiting at Martorell and following the C-55 to Montserrat. The drive takes about an hour.
Woman hiking on Montserrat mountain trail, Spain, with scenic rocky landscape.

Hiking

  • Who’s this for: Active travellers seeking a budget-friendly adventure with stunning scenery.
  • Take the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) R5 line from Barcelona's Plaça Espanya station to Monistrol de Montserrat (around 1 hour). Once there, explore the town and follow marked trails leading up the mountain towards the monastery. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Montserrat mountain hike
Tour bus parked at Montserrat, Spain, with scenic mountain backdrop.

Take a tour that includes your transportation to Montserrat

  • You can also visit Montserrat on a day trip from Barcelona by tour. This takes out the hassle of arranging your transportation and you can visit the monastery with an experienced guide. Some tours also include Farmhouse Lunch or a winery visit!
Montserrat winery tour

Not satisfied with the options? ​Click here for more transportation options from Barcelona to Montserrat to ensure a hassle-free journey!

Rules to keep in mind while visiting Montserrat Monastery

  • You should avoid wearing shorts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Shoulders and knees should be covered, especially if you plan to enter the Basilica or visit the Black Madonna.
  • Photography is allowed in most areas of Montserrat, but it is restricted inside the Basilica, particularly near the Black Madonna. Always check for signs indicating photography rules before taking pictures.
  • Please do not take pictures while visiting the Virgin's throne to avoid disrupting the queue or congregation.
  • If you do not wish to participate in religious ceremonies, kindly avoid entering the basilica while they are ongoing and wait until they conclude.
  • Access to the virgin's throne is restricted during mass.
  • The Crypt, the Chapel, and the area of the Holy Sacraments are designated for devotion and prayer. Please enter these areas only if you are willing to spend a few moments in reflection.
  • Eating and drinking are not permitted inside the monastery, the Basilica, or the museum. If you plan to have a meal, use the designated picnic areas or visit the on-site restaurants.
  • For those exploring Montserrat’s hiking trails, it’s important to stay on marked paths to protect the environment. Avoid picking plants, carving into rocks, or leaving any waste behind.

​More Montserrat Monastery tips

How to get around Montserrat

Hikers on a trail with Montserrat mountain range in the background, Spain.

Walking and hiking

  • For those who enjoy a more adventurous approach, hiking is one of the most rewarding ways to explore Montserrat.
  •  A popular route is the hike from Monistrol de Montserrat to the monastery, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. 
  • The trail winds through breathtaking natural landscapes, offering incredible views of the surrounding mountains. 
  • The ascent can be steep in places, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the monastery makes it worthwhile. 
  • Once at Montserrat, you’ll find several well-marked trails leading to scenic viewpoints, historical sites, and hermitages hidden in the rugged cliffs.
The Funicular Sant Joan at the Montserrat mountain in Catalonia, Spain.

Funiculars

  • Once you’ve arrived at the monastery, the Sant Joan and Santa Cova funiculars offer a convenient way to reach higher points of Montserrat with ease.
  •  The Sant Joan Funicular ascends steeply up the mountain, providing access to spectacular panoramic views and several hiking trails that lead to remote parts of the Montserrat Natural Park.
  •  It’s a must for those looking to experience Montserrat’s stunning vistas from above. The Santa Cova Funicular, on the other hand, takes visitors down to the sacred Santa Cova (Holy Cave), where legend says the Black Madonna was discovered. 
  • The short walk from the funicular station to the cave is dotted with artistic sculptures and religious monuments, making it a peaceful and reflective journey.

Tips for your Barcelona to Montserrat day trip

  • The best time for you to visit is when the famous Boys Choir (the Escolania) performs - usually at 1pm and 6:45pm from Monday to Friday. The monastery is open on weekends too, but the Boys Choir doesn't sing then.
  • Keep in mind that the Black Madonna has two queues, one to enter the basilica and another long one to get close to the Black Madonna for wish-making. Make sure you choose the right line because the Black Madonna line can be really long!
  • Next to the Mirador restaurant, there's the Stairway to Heaven. It's a stack of concrete blocks that used to be climbed by influencers for Instagram pics. Now, it's fenced off for safety. While it might look cool in photos with the right angle and editing, it's not that impressive in person. For better (and safer) pictures, head to the open circular courtyard with arches next to the parking lot, where you can capture yourself with the mountains in the background.
  • While there are restaurants and cafés at Montserrat, packing some snacks and water is a great idea, especially if you plan to hike. The monastery’s farmers’ market is also a great place to buy honey, cheese, fig cakes, and herbal liqueurs.
  • Montserrat has limited mobile signal in some areas, especially on hiking trails. Download Google Maps offline or carry a physical map if you plan to explore beyond the main monastery area. Some guided tours also provide mobile apps with audio guides.
  • Most visitors take the main hiking paths, but if you’re looking for something quieter, try the Cami de les Aigües trail, which offers scenic views with fewer crowds. If you enjoy a challenge, the hike from Santa Cova to Sant Jeroni is a rewarding option.
  • Most day-trippers leave by late afternoon, but staying until sunset offers a magical, less crowded experience. The golden light over the mountains is stunning, and the monastery feels more peaceful as the crowds disappear.

Need a little help planning your visit? Here’s an itinerary for you!

Placa de Espanya Barcelona with view of Venetian Towers and Magic Fountain.
  • Depart from Barcelona: Take the R5 train from Plaça Espanya, drive, or join a guided tour for a hassle-free journey.
  • Arrive at Montserrat Monastery: Take in the breathtaking mountain views upon arrival. If traveling by train, take the rack railway (Cremallera de Montserrat) or cable car (Aeri de Montserrat) to reach the monastery.
  • Visit the Black Madonna: Head straight to the Basilica of Montserrat to see La Moreneta, the Black Madonna, before the crowds arrive.
  • Escolania Boys’ Choir Performance (Optional): If visiting on a weekday, enjoy a performance by the famous Escolania Boys’ Choir in the basilica.
View of the Sant Joan Funicular car leaving the station
  • Explore the Montserrat Museum: See works by Dalí, Picasso, Caravaggio, and El Greco, alongside religious artifacts.
  • Take the Sant Joan Funicular: Enjoy a funicular ride to Montserrat’s highest viewpoints for stunning panoramic views.
  • Short hike in Montserrat Natural Park: Choose a soft hiking trail like Sant Jeroni (1.5–2 hours round trip) or Santa Cova (45 minutes round trip) for a closer look at Montserrat’s unique rock formations.
Montserrat rock climbing experience in Catalonia, Spain, showcasing climbers on rugged mountain terrain.

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:

  • Horseback Riding: Ride through Montserrat’s scenic trails.
  • Rock Climbing: Challenge yourself on the mountain’s iconic jagged peaks.
  • Hot Air Balloon Ride: Soar above Montserrat for breathtaking aerial views.

Free time & souvenir shopping: Browse the artisan market for monastery-made honey, cheese, and unique gifts.

Montserrat cable car ascending mountain in Catalonia, Spain, with scenic views of rugged peaks.
  • Depart Montserrat: Take the rack railway or cable car back down. The train ride back to Barcelona takes about an hour, alternatively, you can board your tour bus back to Barcelona.
  • Arrive in Barcelona: End your trip with a relaxing evening in the city, reflecting on Montserrat’s stunning landscapes and cultural heritage.

Frequently asked questions about Barcelona to Montserrat day trip

How far is Montserrat from Barcelona?

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.

What is the best way to get to Montserrat from Barcelona?

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.

What is the best time to visit Montserrat?

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.

How much time do I need to explore Montserrat?

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.

Is the Escolania Boys’ Choir performance available daily?

No, the Escolania Boys’ Choir performs Monday to Friday at 1pm and Sundays at 12pm. They do not perform on Saturdays or school holidays.

Can I hike in Montserrat?

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.

What should I wear when visiting Montserrat?

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.

What should I wear on my day trip to Montserrat?

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).

Is Montserrat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, most areas of Montserrat, including the monastery, Black Madonna, and museum, are wheelchair accessible. However, some hiking trails and funiculars may be challenging.

Can I visit Montserrat with children?

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.

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