Where to go from Barcelona by rental car: top 5 routes

Where to go from Barcelona by rental car: top 5 routes

Renting a car in Barcelona opens up many opportunities for exciting trips around the area. Within just a couple of hours’ drive, you’ll find picturesque beaches, mountainous landscapes, medieval towns and vineyards. Here are the top 5 routes worth including in your travel plan.

1. Montserrat: sacred mountain and monastery

• Distance: ~50 km (about 1 hour drive).
• What to see:
  • Benedictine Monastery, located at an altitude of 720 meters.
  • The Black Madonna is the main shrine of Catalonia.
  • Lookouts with stunning views of the mountains.
  • Hiking trails for nature lovers.
• Tip: Take the cable car or cable car up for even more spectacular views.

2. Girona: medieval city and colored houses

• Distance: ~100 km (about 1.5 hours drive).
• What to see:
  • Old town with narrow streets and medieval architecture.
  • Onyar River lined with brightly colored houses.
  • Girona Cathedral with a huge nave.
  • The filming locations for the TV series Game of Thrones.
• Tip: Try the local sweets – “jouanes” (cream cakes) and ice cream.

3. Costa Brava: beaches and coves

• Distance: ~120 km (about 1.5-2 hours drive).
• What to see:
  • The beaches of Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar and Cadaqués.
  • Coves with crystal clear water, perfect for swimming.
  • Dali Theater-Museum in Figueres.
• Tip: Stop by small coastal villages to enjoy the authentic atmosphere.

4. Tarragona: ancient Roman heritage

• Distance: ~100 km (about 1.5 hours drive).
• What to see:
  • Roman amphitheater overlooking the sea.
  • Tarragona Cathedral.
  • Rambla Nova is the main pedestrian street of the city.
  • Blue Flag beaches.
• Tip: Visit local restaurants to sample fresh seafood specialties.

5. Penedes: vineyards and wine tasting

• Distance: ~50 km (about 1 hour drive).
• What to see:
  • Wineries where the famous Spanish cava is produced.
  • Wine and sparkling beverage tasting tours.
  • Picturesque landscapes of vineyards.
• Tip: Book a winery tour in advance to learn more about the production process.

Useful tips for traveling

• Plan your route in advance. Use your navigator or maps to avoid traffic jams and difficult roads.
• Check the car before the trip. Make sure the tank is full and the tires and engine are good.
• Bring water and a snack. This is especially helpful if you are traveling with children.
• Watch the parking lots. In smaller towns and tourist destinations, parking spaces may be limited.

Renting a car in Barcelona is your ticket to an unforgettable adventure. Choose an itinerary, plan your trip and set off to explore the beauty of Catalonia!