Day trips from Barcelona

The CIRSE Annual Congress will bring five exciting days of scientific exchange, innovation, and networking to Barcelona. With its prime location and excellent transport connections, Barcelona is also the perfect starting point for exploring Catalonia and beyond. For those staying a couple of extra days before or after the congress, the CIRSE 2025 Local Host Committee has shared their top tips for unforgettable day trips, all within easy reach of the city.

Girona

“For sure, you should visit Girona! It is easy to get there by the fast train,” says Dr. Fernando Gómez Muñoz. Less than 40 minutes from Barcelona Sants (Barcelona’s main train station) by high-speed train, Girona offers a perfectly preserved medieval old town and a stunning cathedral with the widest Gothic nave in the world, and it was recommended by most of the Local Host Committee. Dr. Sergio Moyano recommends strolling along the ancient city walls, visiting the Jewish Quarter (El Call), and spotting filming locations from Game of Thrones. “It’s perfect for history and architecture lovers, and those looking for a slower pace,” he adds. And if you are into cycling, both road and gravel, Dr. Anna Alguersuari says Girona is the perfect city to start your adventure.

Girona – Copyright © Evgeniya Kuzmina

Costa Brava – Copyright © Vision plug

Costa Brava gems

The Costa Brava area is the coastal region around Girona. “If you have access to a car, an hour and a half from Barcelona is one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava, called Begur. The views from the castle are breathtaking, it has fantastic beaches, and the seaside trails are wonderful,” says Dr. Jimena Gonzalez Nieto.

Dr. Alguersuari suggests visiting the village of Pals in the area, and Dr. Ana Maria Fernández Martínez suggests Calella de Palafrugell for its crystal-clear coves.

Figueres

At the northernmost end of the Costa Brava is Figueres. “A must-see for art lovers, especially those fond of Salvador Dalí. Figueres is the artist’s hometown, where you can find the Dalí Theatre-Museum, a surrealist work of art designed by Dalí himself that hosts the largest collection of his works,” says Dr. Moyano.

Tarragona

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, just one hour by train southwest of Barcelona, Tarragona was one of the most important Roman cities in Hispania and was recommended by many of the local hosts. Dr. Moyano calls it “a gem for Roman history enthusiasts” with its amphitheatre by the sea, forum, and old town. Dr. Iñigo Insausti Gorbea adds that the Roman ruins here are “amazing” and not to be missed.

Sitges

Just 30 minutes from Barcelona by train, Dr. Fernández Martínez describes Sitges as having golden beaches, modernist architecture, and a bohemian, artistic atmosphere. Dr. Moyano recommends it for “a day of sun, sea, and strolling,” while Dr. Insausti Gorbea calls it “perfect for a beach day and relaxed vibes.”

Montserrat

A sacred mountain about an hour from Barcelona (via train and cable car or rack railway), Montserrat is both a spiritual and natural wonder. “Visit the monastery and basilica, see the Our Lady of Montserrat statue, listen to the boys’ choir Escolanía de Montserrat, explore the museum with artworks by El Greco, Dalí, and Picasso, and enjoy the panoramic views,” says Dr. Moyano. With hiking trails for all levels, it’s ideal for both culture and nature lovers.

Penedès wine region

“If you like wine, the Penedès region is close by and known for its cava – a tasting tour there is always a good idea,” says Dr. Insausti Gorbea. Only 45 minutes by train to Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, Dr. Fernández Martínez recommends visiting famous wineries like Freixenet and Codorníu (take a taxi from the train station), to enjoy sparkling wine straight from its source.

Pyrenees mountains

“If you’re staying longer, explore the Aragonese Pyrenees; they are especially beautiful in autumn,” says Prof. José Andrés Guirola Ortiz. “The Benasque and Tena Valleys offer stunning nature, outdoor adventures, and great mountain cuisine.” This is a longer trip (several hours by car), but it is perfect for those extending their stay.