How frequently do trains run?

Trains run frequently throughout the day, typically every hour. During peak seasons, there may be additional services, so it's advisable to check the current schedule before your visit.

How long does the train from Barcelona to Montserrat take?

The R5 FGC train from Barcelona to Montserrat takes approximately 1 hour to reach either Monistrol de Montserrat (rack railway) or Aeri de Montserrat (cable car). The rack railway adds another 15 minutes, while the cable car takes about 5 minutes.

Is the train accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Yes, both the train and the connecting rack railway are designed to be accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.

What is the difference between the rack railway and the cable car?

The rack railway offers a smooth scenic ride, while the cable car provides a fast, thrilling ascent.

What time does the first and last train leave from Barcelona?

The first train departs at 8:36am, and the last return train from Montserrat leaves at 6:41pm.

How to get from Barcelona to Montserrat

The R5 train line operated by FGC is the most popular way to travel from Barcelona to Montserrat. Depart from Plaça Espanya Station in Barcelona. Take the R5 FGC train towards Manresa. The journey takes around 1 hour. Get off at Monistrol de Montserrat (for the rack railway) or Aeri de Montserrat (for the cable car).

By rack railway

From Monistrol de Montserrat, take the rack railway up to the monastery.
The journey takes 15 minutes, and it offers scenic views.
Trains run frequently, approximately every 20-30 minutes.
Ideal for those who prefer a comfortable, gradual ascent.
Great option for photographers, as it allows more time to take in the views.
The Montserrat Rack Railway (cogwheel) is wheelchair accessible and offers comfortable seating.

By cable car (Aeri de Montserrat)

From Aeri de Montserrat station, take the cable car up.
The ride takes 5 minutes and provides a thrilling ascent with panoramic views.
The cable car departs every 15 minutes.
Offers a more adventurous experience with stunning aerial views.
Recommended for those who want a quicker, more exhilarating way to reach the top.
The cable car is not wheelchair accessible due to steep inclines.

By furnicular (Funicular de Sant Joan)

The Funicular de Sant Joan is ideal for once you've reached the Montserrat Monastery.
Use it to get stunning views of Montserrat or access some of the walks around the natural park.
You can buy one or two-way funicular tickets at the funicular station in the monastery.
It runs every 20 minutes and the journey takes 7 minutes.

Key information about Montserrat Rack Railway

The Montserrat Rack Railway, aka cogwheel train, is a unique mountain railway that connects Monistrol de Montserrat to the monastery at the top of the mountain. The railway is 5 km long, with the first 1 km using regular tracks and the next 4 km using the Abt rack system.

Departure point: Monistrol de Montserrat station
Journey time: 20 minutes
Schedule: Trains run every 20-30 minutes
Tickets: Can be purchased at the station or as part of a combined transport ticket
Capacity: Each train can accommodate approximately 200 passengers comfortably
Accessibility: The rack railway is wheelchair-accessible
Operating hours: Depends on the season
Best time to travel: Mornings and weekdays are less crowded

Don’t miss the Rack Railway ride to Montserrat!

The rack railway is the most scenic way to reach the monastery, and spots are limited each day. Book your tour now and lock in your seat on this unforgettable journey.

Best time to take a Barcelona to Montserrat train

View of the cog railway from Monistrol de Montserrat to Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey, Catalonia, Spain, Europe

Spring is one of the best times to visit Montserrat. With mild temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C, it's comfortable for outdoor activities like hiking or exploring the monastery.
The landscape is lush and vibrant, with flowers in full bloom, making it perfect for photography
As spring is not as busy as summer, you can enjoy a more peaceful experience.

About Montserrat's weather

Montserrat rack railway on a bright sunny day

Summer is the peak tourist season in Montserrat, drawing large numbers of visitors from around the world.
Temperatures can rise above 30°C (86°F), making midday travel and outdoor activities uncomfortable.
Expect long queues at train stations, ticket counters, and popular spots like the monastery and funiculars.
The Montserrat Monastery and viewpoints can feel overcrowded, especially between 10am and 3pm.
The best way to beat the summer rush is to take the first train from Plaça Espanya around 8:36am. Late afternoon visits are also a good option, as the crowds start thinning out after 4pm.

It is one of the best seasons to visit, with comfortable temperatures and stunning fall colors. The mountain is covered in beautiful autumn foliage, creating a scenic backdrop for photography
Autumn in Montserrat is an ideal time for sightseeing and outdoor activities. It's the perfect season for hiking, as the trails are less dusty and temperatures are moderate.
Temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), providing a comfortable climate for exploring.
Early afternoon trains (12pm – 2pm) provide great visibility for sightseeing and a more relaxed visit.
By late October and November, crowds decrease significantly, allowing for a peaceful experience with fewer tourists at viewpoints.

Sneak peak of montserrat rack railway on a foggy winter day

Winter is the best time to visit Montserrat to avoid large tourist crowds. The mountain feels serene, with fewer visitors at the monastery, hiking trails, and funiculars. You’ll have more space on the train, rack railway, and inside Montserrat’s cultural attractions.
Daytime temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F), so warm clothing is recommended. Occasionally, Montserrat experiences light snowfall.
Since winter has shorter daylight hours, visiting between 10am and 2pm is ideal. Arriving earlier ensures you have enough time to explore before it gets too cold. Avoid late afternoon visits, as the temperature drops quickly after sunset.

Tourists on train to montserrat monastery

Weekdays

Weekdays offer a quieter and more relaxed experience compared to weekends and public holidays. Visiting from Monday to Thursday means fewer crowds, shorter wait times for trains, funiculars, and restaurants, and more peaceful viewpoints to enjoy the stunning scenery.

Weekends

On the other hand, weekends are significantly busier, especially from mid-morning to early afternoon. If you plan to visit on a Saturday or Sunday, taking the first train at 8:36 AM is a great way to avoid the rush. Arriving early allows you to explore Montserrat’s key attractions before the midday crowds arrive, ensuring a more enjoyable experience.

Montserrat opening hours

Montserrat Monastery with cog-wheel train and scenic mountain views on guided tour.

The first train from Barcelona leaves around 8:36am
Early morning is the perfect time to enjoy Montserrat without the crowds, especially during peak tourist seasons like summer. You can experience a quieter journey to the mountain and have more space on the train.
The temperatures tend to be cooler in the early morning, making the train ride and your time spent exploring Montserrat more comfortable, especially during the warmer months.
Morning light is ideal for photography, especially for capturing the mountain views as the sun rises, casting soft and beautiful light over the landscape

The last return train from Montserrat to Barcelona departs around 6:41pm. If you miss the last train, your only option will be a taxi or an overnight stay in Montserrat.
The final rack railway and cable car rides down the mountain leave earlier, so allow time to descend.
Sunset views from Montserrat are spectacular, but ensure you catch the last train back to Barcelona.
The golden light during the evening makes for stunning landscape photography.
By late afternoon, most day-trippers are heading back to Barcelona. This means fewer crowds at the monastery, viewpoints, and restaurants. If you prefer a peaceful atmosphere, arriving in the afternoon is a great option.

Visitor tips

Decide between the Montserrat Rack Railway (Cremallera de Montserrat) or the Aeri de Montserrat (cable car) for the final ascent. If you prefer a scenic and gradual ride, choose the rack railway. For a faster, thrilling ascent with panoramic views, take the cable car.
Take the first train (8:36am) to reach Montserrat before most tourists arrive.
Allocate at least 4–5 hours to explore Montserrat fully.
Try local Catalan cuisine at Montserrat’s restaurants, such as Pa amb tomàquet (bread spread with tomato, olive oil, and salt), or Mató (fresh cheese) with honey, a regional specialty.
Note that the Barcelona to Montserrat train and Montserrat rack railway (cogwheel) are wheelchair accessible. The cable car is not. So, if you have mobility concerns, make sure to choose the Montserrat rack railway.

More Montserrat tips

Frequently asked questions about the Barcelona to Montserrat train

The train to Montserrat departs from Plaça d’Espanya station in Barcelona. This station is easily accessible via the L1 (red) and L3 (green) metro lines.