You may or may not have heard of a beautiful monastery in the mountain range about one hour from Barcelona. Well, we hadn’t until we looked into day trips from Barcelona and Montserrat came up.
But now the dilemma of planning how to get there, is it worth your time? What to see and do? And how to make the most of it in such a limited time?
If this has crossed your mind at any point, then take it from us, the hard task of planning and researching is over, as our complete guide to a day trip to Montserrat has it covered.
We will walk you through everything you need to know to make your day trip to Montserrat seamless, stress-free, and spectacular.
And all that planning is worth it, with the incredible views and experiences.
Let’s make your day trip to Montserrat one of the highlights of your Barcelona adventure.
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Table of Contents
How to get to Montserrat
Firstly, you need to decide upon the right transportation depending on your budget, time constraints and travel preference.
There are three main options, taking the train, driving or joining a guided tour.
Let’s take a look at each option, so you can choose what is right for you:
Train
This is probably the most popular and cheaper mode of getting to Montserrat. This is how we travelled; we took the R5 train from Plaça Espanya to the base of Montserrat mountain.
It’s then a choice of taking a cable car up to the monastery, or rack railway. Depending on which you choose, you’ll need to purchase the correct ticket in Barcelona and then get off at the correct stop.
If you choose the cable car, then you’ll need to get off at Aeri de Montserrat. If you are taking the rack railway, then get off at the last stop Monistrol de Montserrat.
Sadly, if you travel on the cable car or the rack railway on the way up to the monastery, then you can’t travel down on the other. The ticket will only cover you for the one.
We would have loved to have travelled on the cable car on the way up and then experience the rack railway on the way down.
However, we chose the cable car, it was an exciting experience, with incredible views across the mountain range.
The train runs regularly throughout the day. You can check the train timetables here.
We booked our tickets for the train from Barcelona to Montserrat and cable car tickets at Plaça Espanya train station in Barcelona.
The cost of the train and cable car or rack railway will start at €25.00 per adult. There are some concessions, such as 65s and over, children, etc.
Car
Driving is a great way to get to Montserrat from Barcelona, it offers you the freedom and flexibility that public transport or a tour can’t offer you.
It will take about one hour depending on traffic and offers the flexibility of travelling at your own speed and stopping off to enjoy the views.
There are several parking options, one at the base of the mountain and another at the top, but you’ll need to navigate the winding road.
You’ll need to factor in the cost of hiring a vehicle, the fuel and parking. While driving in an unfamiliar location could be a little stressful, which is why we chose to take public transport than navigating Spain by road.
Guided tour
If you are anything like us and prefer to leave the logistics to the experts. Then a guided tour might be the solution for a quick day trip to Montserrat.
Most tours include round-trip transportation, along with the expertise of a knowledgeable guide who can provide you with more information about Montserrat, its history, culture and significance.
If you pick the right tour, you can also include wine tasting, hiking and much more.
We use reputable tour operators like Get Your Guide. They offer a wide choice of day tours to Montserrat from Barcelona and other regions of the country.
We chose to take public transport, just for the flexibility. We could decide how long we wanted to spend there, without restrictions and explore the places that interested us.
These are the tours we would recommend:
- Montserrat Small Group Tour with Train and Cable Car
- From Barcelona: Montserrat Monastery & Scenic Mountain Hike
- Barcelona: Montserrat & Ancient Winery Tour with Tapas/Lunch
Tips for visiting Montserrat
With just a short period of time at Montserrat, you’ll want to make the most of the trip. There is some planning required such as best time to visit to avoid crowds, to what to pack in your day backpack.
Best time to visit Montserrat
Montserrat is one of the most popular day trip destinations from Barcelona, so it can get very busy, especially during peak season.
If you want to avoid the crowds, then you’ll need to time your visit.
Early morning or late evening
The ideal time to reach Montserrat is early morning. Catch the first train and cable car or rack railway up to the monastery. This will give you more space and time to explore what you want to see without the crowds.
By the time the crowds arrive, you would have explored the monastery and you can discover some hidden gems or go hiking along the trails.
During the summer months, take advantage of the long sunlight hours and explore Montserrat until the last cable car and rack railway leaves and the last train.
Weekdays are best
Montserrat is less crowded during the weekdays than the weekends. When planning your itinerary to Barcelona, plan the day trip to Montserrat during the weekday where possible.
Go off season
We travelled during the peak season of July and it was very busy and crowded.
To avoid the crowds and explore at a more leisurely pace, then consider travelling during the shoulder months of spring and autumn.
The weather in Montserrat is definitely cooler and milder than down in the city of Barcelona. So, expect mild to colder climates in the shoulder months.
What to pack
A successful and enjoyable day trip to Montserrat requires some preparations. This includes packing everything you’ll need for a day of exploration:
- Comfortable shoes – A varied terrain from hiking the various trails around the monastery to pathed paths and flooring in the museums. You’ll need a comfortable pair of shoes for the activities.
- Layers – The weather is very unpredictable. We visited Montserrat during the peak summer months and Barcelona was hot, yet the moment we climbed hirer into the mountain, the cooler it got. So much so, that we arrived and the monastery was clear, yet the mountains were cloudy. Taking a jacket or jumper is a good idea, as you’ll likely need it.
- Food and drinks – There are restaurants and cafes in Montserrat, but packing a picnic, lunch, snacks and drinks will keep you to your budget. If you plan to hike some of the trails in the mountain, you’ll need plenty of fluids and food to provide you with energy and to keep you hydrated even in the cooler climates.
- Camera or smartphone – You’ll want to leave with memories and what better way, than with pictures and videos of the beautiful landscape and architecture. Make sure the camera or smartphone is fully charged and take a portable charger to recharge the devices where necessary.
- Small backpack – A lightweight backpack is recommended to keep all your essentials. We love our Osprey daylite backpack, which we take everywhere, whether we are sightseeing or hiking, it is perfect for all your needs.
- Sunscreen and hat – Although it could be quite mild in Montserrat, sunscreen and hat is still a must, as you could burn, even in cloudy conditions. Always apply the cream prior to departure and regularly during the day.
By planning your trip, visiting at the right time and packing the essentials you’ll need for the day, you’ll be able to enjoy the incredible beauty of Montserrat.
Book in advance
Due to Montserrat’s important significance, it is recommended to book accommodation or tables in restaurants in advance to avoid disappointment. Especially in the height of the peak season.
Things to see and do in Montserrat
For a monastery in the mountains, there is a lot to do in just a day trip to from Barcelona.
These are the top experiences that you can’t miss:
Montserrat monastery
The monastery is perched within the mountains and offers panoramic views of the mountain and landscape around.
The monastery was founded in the 11th century and home to around 70 Benedictine monks, who live, work and pray here.
This significant religious site has been a pilgrimage, due to the statue of La Moreneta, or the Black Madonna.
The Black Madonna, is a statue of the Virgin Mary and the infant Christ, dating back to around the 12th century.
The name derives from the colour of the statue and is said to be as a result of the aging wood from over the centuries. Although some believe it has discoloured as a result of the candle smoke.
The intricate decorations and grand interior of the Basilica is incredible to see, while the architecture is an example of gothic and renaissance.
The famous Escolania de Montserrat, is one of the oldest boys’ choirs in Europe. If you want to listen to the incredible sound of the boys’ choir, then we would recommend attending a service at around 1pm. Although times may change, always check their website for up-to-date services.
You can find out more about the services held at Montserrat here.
Montserrat Museum
If you’re interested in art history, archaeology, and religious artifacts, then Montserrat Museum is a must.
Inside the museum you’ll see over 1,300 pieces of art and artifacts, spanning from ancient times to the 20th century.
Some artifacts to look out for are medieval altarpieces, icons, and a collection of decorated chalices, vestments, and other items used in Catholic liturgical practices.
Other artifacts to look out for is the Egyptian sarcophagus, dating back to the 22nd Dynasty (around 945–715 BC), and a mummy of a young boy from the same period.
Sant Joan Funicular
Although this is a pricey affair, this was definitely worth it.
The Sant Joan Funicular offers incredible views of the monastery below as you climb higher into the mountain.
The ride will take you up over 2300 ft above sea level and just takes a few minutes ride to the top.
It was such a shame that it was cloudy on our trip to Montserrat, because had it been a clear day, we would have incredible mountain views.
There is one other funicular ride, Funicular de la Santa Cova. It is said that the image of Our Lady of Montserrat was found here.
Cross of St Michael
The cross is located on a rocky outcrop to the east of Montserrat and one of the best short walking routes to take from the monastery. It also offers some incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
The hiking route is about 1-mile round trip and should take about 30 minutes to reach depending on your pace.
This easy hike will take you through mountainous views and forests. A very popular route and one we would recommend if you are looking for something easy but rewarding.
Daily Market
Now we are not talking about bustling daily markets in Montserrat, as this isn’t the kind of market here. However, we are talking about some small stalls selling local goods and souvenirs.
You can purchase local cheeses, honey, homemade crafts and more. Ideal to take a little taster of Montserrat home with you.
Some venders may only accept cash payment, consider taking some cash with you, if you wish to purchase anything from the small market stalls.
Alternatively, you can purchase some goods from the small gift shops and stores, that sell books, religious artifacts, local food and more.
Hiking
This is the ideal spot for hikers, with a number of excellent routes around the mountains for all levels.
We tried to hike a short distance of the Sant Joan to Sant Jeroni route, but due to the foggy and cool weather conditions we abandoned the trip.
These are our recommended hiking routes around Montserrat:
Sant Jeroni
This is the most iconic of all the routes in Montserrat, but is the most challenging. You’ll need to have some experience of hiking and fitness.
The route leads up to the highest point of the mountain at 4055 ft and offers some of the most amazing views.
The route starts at the monastery and you have the choice of hiking from the base or taking the Sant Joan funicular.
A round trip should take around 5 hours depending on your fitness and pace.
We only managed a small section of this and had the fog lifted, we would have been rewarded with incredible rugged mountain and landscape views.
Sant Cova Path
If you’re looking for a short and easy route, then this might be the one for you.
A round trip shouldn’t take longer than 2 hours depending on your pace.
The route will take you to Santa Cova (Holy Cave). It is said the La Moreneta (Virgin of Montserrat) was discovered. Along the way you’ll explore religious sculptures and scenic views.
The Path of Hermitages (Camí dels Degotalls)
This is a moderate to easy route and should take around 2 hours round trip.
We would love to cover this one off our list the next time we visit, as it takes you through several hermitages nestled in the mountain. This is where monks once lived in solitude.
Dining options in Montserrat
There are a few dining options available at Montserrat, from local Catalonia cuisine to picnic options in the mountain with views.
However, there are no facilities the further your trek away from the monastery. If you plan to do any hiking, then make sure you have sufficient food with you.
Here are some options on places to eat.
Restaurant Abat Cisneros
This is definitely at the pricey end, but if you’re looking for a unique experience, then this is the place to eat.
Enjoy Catalan dishes in this charming 16th century building, with serene atmosphere.
Bar de la Placa
At a more affordable spot is Bar de la Placa, with a more casual atmosphere.
The menu consists of a variety of dishes from snacks, sandwiches tapas and more. Along with hot and cold drinks.
During the peak season, seating is available outside and it’s conveniently located within the main square.
Picnic areas
Our preferred option is to bring a picnic, this keeps us to our tight budget and were spoilt for choice when it comes to picnic areas to enjoy the view from.
La Creu de Sant Miquel
Just a short hike from the monastery, it offers panoramic views of the mountain and valley.
There are benches and some shade, which is ideal location to eat.
Santa Cova Path
This is the ideal spot for a snack or lunch while you’re hiking the Santa Cova Path.
Enjoy the tranquil and relaxed atmosphere as you listen to nature buzzing around you.
Places to stay in Montserrat
Most will only have a few hours in Montserrat before returning to Barcelona or continuing your Spanish itinerary.
But what if you do have 24+ hours to spend, then you could stay in the monastery for at least 1 night if not a few.
If we had more time, we would have spent 24 hours here, exploring and hiking. So, if you can add extra time to your itinerary, then we would recommend these places to stay:
Alberg Abat Oliba
A hostel that is affordable right on the doorsteps of the monastery.
Dorm rooms and some private rooms available, with shared bathroom facilities, communal dining, Wi-Fi and common room.
Book your stay here in advance to avoid disappointment.
Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat
At the other end of the cost scale is Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat.
This historic building is perched on the mountain range in a traditional Catalan architectural style.
Each room includes a private room and bathroom facilities, Wi-Fi, TVs and some rooms include balconies.
There is a restaurant and common areas.
Book your stay in advance to avoid disappointment. You can book your stay here.
Conclusion
This day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona offers breathtaking views to a rich tapestry of history and spirituality.
With plenty to see and do, this is an unmissable gem on any Barcelona itinerary. It’s easy to reach, with just a 1-hour train ride to Montserrat, which allows you a diverse experience of Spain and its rich heritage.
This is a journey you won’t forget.
Your say
Have you been to Montserrat or planning a day trip soon? We’d love to hear about your experience or any questions you have! Share your thoughts, tips, or ask away in the comments below.
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