Montserrat Monastery, located high in the mountains of Catalonia, is one of the most stunning and spiritual destinations near Barcelona. If you're planning to visit, here are the best ways to get there.

Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona by train

Your journey typically starts in Barcelona at Plaça d’Espanya, where you will take the R5 train towards Manresa. You can choose between the Cable Car (Aeri de Montserrat), the Rack Railway (Cremallera de Montserrat), or even hiking.

Departure Station: Plaça d’Espanya, accessible via Barcelona Metro (Green L3 & Red L1 lines).
Train Line: R5 train to Manresa, running approximately every hour.

Important: Before purchasing your ticket, you must choose between the Cable Car (Aeri de Montserrat) or Rack Railway (Cremallera de Montserrat) since the train stops at different stations for each option. Once you reach Montserrat you have these options to reach the top.

By Train + Cable Car (Aeri de Montserrat)

Step 1: Take the R5 train from Plaça d’Espanya to Montserrat-Aeri station.
Step 2: Board the Cable Car (Aeri de Montserrat)
Duration: 5-minute ride offering spectacular mountain views.
Tip: Do not get off at Olesa de Montserrat. Although it has a cable car, it does not go to Montserrat Monastery. This route is the fastest and most scenic way to reach Montserrat.

By Train + Rack Railway (Cogwheel)

Step 1: Take the R5 train from Plaça d’Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat station (one stop after Montserrat-Aeri).
Step 2: Transfer to the Rack Railway (Cremallera de Montserrat), a cogwheel train that takes you up the mountain.
Duration: 15 minutes from Monistrol de Montserrat to Montserrat Monastery.
Tip: Do not get off at Montserrat-Aeri; this stop is for the cable car. Trains run every 20 minutes, and it is a slower but more comfortable ride

By Train + Hiking

Step 1: Take the R5 train from Plaça d’Espanya to Montserrat-Aeri station or Monistrol de Montserrat station.
Step 2: Get off at either Montserrat-Aeri or Monistrol de Montserrat and hike to the monastery.
Hiking duration:
From Montserrat-Aeri: ~1 hour, steep climb.
From Monistrol de Montserrat: 1–1.5 hours, moderate difficulty.

Map of getting to Montserrat Monastery

About the Montserrat Rack Railway

Cable Car vs. Rack Railway: Which one to choose

Features

Cable Car (Aeri de Montserrat)

Rack Railway (Cogwheel)

Experience

A thrilling 5-minute ascent in a hanging car, offering breathtaking views.

A scenic 15-20 minute train ride winding up the mountain

Views

Views of the River Llobregat, Monistrol village, and the Santa Cova shrine

Stunning mountain and valley views throughout the journey

Accessibility

Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with mobility issues (steep stairs at the top)

Fully accessible with lifts and designated wheelchair spaces

Capacity

Holds up to 35 passengers per trip.

Spacious train compartments with ample seating

Station

Board at Montserrat-Aeri (1st stop on the R5 train from Barcelona).

Board at Monistrol de Montserrat (2nd stop on the R5 train)

Ride Duration

5 minutes.

15 minutes from Monistrol de Montserrat

Convenience

Runs every 15 minutes (more frequently if needed).

Trains run every 20-60 minutes, depending on the season

Timings

9:30am - 7pm (depends on the season)

8:35am - 8:15pm (depends on the season)

Best For

Adventure seekers and those wanting the quickest way up

Travelers who prefer a relaxed, comfortable ride

Getting to Montserrat Monastery by hiking

There are three main hiking routes to Montserrat, each with different start points and characteristics.

Camí de les Canals i de l’Aigua (GR 5/96) – Canals and Water Path

Drecera dels Tres Quarts (GR 96) – Three Quarters Shortcut

PR-C 19 – The Monistrol Mountain Club Route

Start Point: Plaça de la Font Gran, Monistrol de Montserrat
Distance: 5 km one-way
Duration: 1.5 hours
Ascent: 525m
Trek intensity: Moderate to difficult

A historic pilgrimage route once part of the Camino de Santiago, it is a gradual but steady uphill climb. It passes key landmarks like the Pla de Sant Bernat and the Montserrat water pumping station. The trail includes sections with steps to ease the ascent. Near the top, it joins the Camí de la Santa Cova before reaching Montserrat.

Start Point: Plaça de la Font Gran, Monistrol de Montserrat
Distance: 5 km
Duration: 1.7 hours
Ascent: 525m
Trek intensity: Difficult

A shorter but steeper route, climbing over 525 meters and following the red and white GR signs. The path crosses multiple mountain streams and rocky sections, making it more challenging. Some stretches involve stone steps, requiring a good level of fitness. It connects with the Camí de la Santa Cova before reaching Montserrat.

Start Point: Plaça de la Font Gran, Monistrol de Montserrat
Distance: 5 km
Duration: 1.7 hours
Ascent: 515m
Trek intensity: Moderate

A scenic and historic path designed to commemorate 50 years of the local ramblers' club. It follows parts of the old Royal Road (Camí Ral) and passes landmarks like the Chapel of the Angel and the Monastery of Sant Benet. Some sections still retain their original stone paving, adding to its charm. The route merges with the Camí dels Degotalls before reaching Montserrat.

Montserrat Funiculars: Sant Joan & Santa Cova

Montserrat features two main funiculars—Funicular de Sant Joan and Funicular de Santa Cova. These funiculars improve the experience of exploring Montserrat’s breathtaking landscapes and religious sites.

Funicular de Sant Joan

Purpose: Transports visitors from Montserrat Monastery to the summit of Sant Joan Mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
History: Opened in 1918, the funicular has undergone several renovations to ensure safety and efficiency.

Experience:

Enjoy a thrilling ascent with stunning views of Montserrat’s jagged peaks and valleys.

At the summit, access hiking trails leading to various viewpoints and natural attractions.

Funicular de Santa Cova

Purpose: Descends from the monastery to the Santa Cova (Holy Grotto), the legendary site where the Black Madonna of Montserrat was discovered.
History: In operation since 1929, the funicular was developed to facilitate pilgrimages to this sacred site

Experience:

Ride down through scenic landscapes to reach the Holy Grotto.

Explore walking paths and sculptures forming the Monumental Rosary, an open-air exhibition of Catalan Modernist art.

Additional Information

Both funiculars are designed for passenger comfort and are accessible for visitors with reduced mobility.
Operating on solar energy, the funiculars contribute to Montserrat’s commitment to environmentally friendly tourism.
The funiculars integrate seamlessly with the Montserrat Rack Railway, providing a smooth travel experience from Monistrol de Montserrat to the monastery

Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona by bus

Traveling to Montserrat by bus is a convenient and budget-friendly option, offering a direct and scenic route to the mountain.

Autocares Julia: Departs from Barcelona Sants Station daily at 9:15am and drops you off right at the monastery plaza.
Bages Express: Buses leave from Plaça de la Universitat in Barcelona hourly and arrive 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.

Note: Bages Express includes a rack railway ride as well and Autocares Julia is a direct bus ride. For a more stress-free experience, a guided day trip is the best way to explore Montserrat, ensuring you get the most out of your visit without worrying about transportation logistics!

Getting to Montserrat from Barcelona by car

Driving to Montserrat is a flexible but costly option, allowing you to explore the area at your own pace. However, parking near the monastery is limited, and the winding roads can be tricky, especially in peak season.

Driving route to Montserrat

Take the A-2 highway out of Barcelona for a toll-free route or the AP-7 highway if you don’t mind a small toll.
After about 30 minutes, take the C-55 road toward Monistrol de Montserrat for stunning views of the mountain’s famous rock formations.
Follow signs to Monistrol de Montserrat, where you can either park or take the rack railway or cable car up to the monastery.

Parking at Montserrat Monastery

If you're driving to Montserrat, there are two main parking options—one at the Cremallera de Monistrol Vila rack railway station and another right next to Montserrat Monastery. Choosing the right parking spot depends on whether you want to drive all the way up to the monastery or take the scenic rack railway for an added adventure.

Parking at Cremallera de Monistrol Vila (Rack Railway Station)

Location: Aparcament del Cremallera de Montserrat (C-55 motorway, near Monistrol de Montserrat)
Cost: Free
Capacity: 1,000 cars & 70 coaches
Disabled Parking: 18 spaces (6 per floor)
Amenities: Restrooms, waiting area, ticket offices

This large, multi-story car park is one of the most popular parking options for visitors driving to Montserrat. It allows you to park for free and then take the rack railway up the mountain to Montserrat Monastery.

Parking at Montserrat Monastery

Location: Right next to the Monastery
Cost: Paid parking (Price varies)
This allows direct access to the monastery without needing to take any public transport. However, there are a few things to keep in mind:
The parking lot is small and fills up quickly, especially during peak season.
The lot is located on a hill, which means some walking is required. If you’re traveling with elderly visitors or people with mobility issues, consider whether this will be comfortable.

Visitor tips for getting to Montserrat from Barcelona

If you're traveling in a group, paying for parking at the monastery may be cheaper than purchasing multiple rack railway tickets.
For free parking, leave your car at Monistrol-Vila Rack Railway Station and take the scenic train up.
The parking at Montserrat Monastery is open 24/7, so no worries about missing transport back but the rack railway parking follows the operating hours of the rack railway.
The first trains and buses leave Barcelona around 8-9am—taking an early ride means fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
For the rack railway, sit on the right side. You’ll get the best views of Montserrat’s peaks as you ascend.
The cable car is safe but can be a little unsettling if you're afraid of heights, especially since it sways with the wind.
Montserrat has trails for all levels – from easy walks to challenging hikes. Research routes like Sant Jeroni (most panoramic), Santa Cova (spiritual), or the St. Michael’s Cross trail (short & scenic).
There are few refill points on the hiking trails, so carry enough water & energy snacks.
If you want a hassle-free experience, book a guided day trip—it covers all transport and ensures you make the most of your visit!

More Montserrat tips

Frequently asked questions about getting to Montserrat from Barcelona

What’s the best way to get to Montserrat?

The best way depends on your preference. Driving is the fastest option, but you’ll need to find parking. Taking the train combined with the rack railway or cable car offers a scenic journey. A guided tour is the most convenient choice, as it includes transport, tickets, and sometimes even a meal.

Should I take the rack railway or the cable car?

The cable car is the quicker option, taking just five minutes, and provides breathtaking aerial views of the mountain. The rack railway, while slower at around 15 minutes, offers a smoother, more comfortable ride with large windows for scenic views. The rack railway is the better choice if you're afraid of heights.

Is there a direct train from Barcelona to Montserrat?

No, there isn’t a direct train. You need to take the R5 train from Plaça d’Espanya to either Aeri de Montserrat (for the cable car) or Monistrol de Montserrat (for the rack railway). From there, you’ll transfer to your chosen transport up the mountain.

Can I drive to Montserrat?

Yes, you can drive to Montserrat via the A-2 or AP-7 highways. There are parking options at Monistrol de Montserrat, where you can transfer to the rack railway, or at the cable car station. There’s also limited parking near the monastery itself, but spaces fill up quickly, especially in peak season.

Are there direct buses from Barcelona to Montserrat?

Yes, there are direct buses operated by companies like Julià that run daily from Barcelona (e.g., from Sants station) to Montserrat. Buses leave at 9:15am and return in the late afternoon or evening

How do I get back to Barcelona from Montserrat?

Simply take the rack railway or cable car back down to the train stations at Monistrol or Aeri de Montserrat. From there, board the R5 train back to Barcelona. Make sure to check the last departure times to avoid getting stranded.

What time do the last trains and cable cars leave?

The last rack railway departs Montserrat around 6:15pm while the last cable car usually leaves at 6pm. The final train from Monistrol de Montserrat back to Barcelona is around 7pm, but times can vary, so always check the schedule to avoid getting stranded.

Is the journey to Montserrat accessible for people with mobility issues?

Yes, the rack railway is fully accessible, with step-free boarding and space for wheelchairs. The cable car, however, requires stepping into a moving cabin, which may be challenging. Around the monastery, some paths have steep inclines, but there are accessible routes.

Can I visit Montserrat and another destination in one day?

It’s possible but not ideal. Montserrat has enough to see for a full day, but if you're short on time, some tours combine Montserrat with destinations like Girona or a wine region. Leaving Montserrat by mid-afternoon would allow time for another short excursion.