Montserrat Day Trip from Barcelona: All You Need to Know
If you’re craving fresh mountain air, stunning views, and a unique cultural experience, a Montserrat day trip from Barcelona is the perfect escape.
I’ve explored this breathtaking mountain many times, testing different ways to get there and discovering the best things to do once you arrive.
From scenic hikes and panoramic viewpoints to the famous monastery and its legendary Black Madonna, Montserrat has something for everyone.
Ready to plan the ultimate day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat?
Here’s everything you need to know!
Short on time? Here are my top Montserrat recommendations:
✨ Montserrat Guided Tour ✨ – the best tour including all necessary tickets
✨ Hotel Abat Cisneros ✨ – superb hotel right next to Montserrat Monastery
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Why Visit Montserrat?
Barcelona is an incredible city, but sometimes you need a break from the crowds and the busy streets.
A Montserrat day trip from Barcelona is one of the best ways to experience Catalonia’s natural beauty, history, and culture in one place. Here’s why it’s worth adding to your itinerary:
- Breathtaking Views: Montserrat’s unique rock formations and scenic viewpoints offer some of the most stunning panoramas in Spain.
- Rich History and Spiritual Significance: The Basilica of Montserrat is home to the famous Black Madonna, a revered religious icon that attracts pilgrims from around the world.
- Fantastic Hiking Trails: From easy walks to the Sant Miquel’s Cross to challenging hikes up Sant Jeroni, Montserrat is a paradise for outdoor lovers.
- Unique Local Culture: The monastery is still active, with monks living and working there. You can also hear the world-famous Escolania Boys’ Choir perform on select days.
- Easy to Reach from Barcelona: With direct trains and multiple transport options, visiting Montserrat is simple and convenient.
The Best Time to Visit Montserrat
Montserrat is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you want to do.
- Spring (March-May): Ideal for hiking, with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Fewer tourists than in summer.
- Summer (June–August): Warm and sunny, but also the busiest time. Expect larger crowds, especially around the basilica. It might be too hot to hike in this season.
- Autumn (September–November): Cooler weather and fewer visitors make it a great time to explore the trails and the monastery.
- Winter (December–February): Fewer crowds, but temperatures can be chilly, especially at the summit. Some hiking trails may be slippery or even closed after rain.
💡 Tip: For the best experience, visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid peak crowds, especially in summer and on weekends.
How to Get from Barcelona to Montserrat
Here are all available transportation options for a day trip from Barcelona to Montserrat (from easiest to hardest to organize):
| Mode of Transport | Duration | Book via |
| Organized Tour | ~6 hours (whole trip) | GetYourGuide |
| Train and Cable Car | ~1:35 hours (in each direction) | GetYourGuide |
| Train and Rack Railway | ~1:35 hours (in each direction) | GetYourGuide |
| Train and Hike | ~3:00 hours (in each direction) | FGC |
| Car | ~50 minutes (in each direction) | Discover Cars |
| Bus | ~1:25 hours (in each direction) | Autocares Julia |
Organized Tour from Barcelona to Montserrat
The easiest and fastest way to plan a Montserrat day trip from Barcelona is by joining an organized tour.
My recommended tour starts at the bus station Barcelona Nord, which is easily reachable by the L1 (red) metro line.
From there, you’ll reach Monistrol de Montserrat by bus and catch the rack railway train to the monastery. There, the guided tour will begin. Afterward, you’ll have plenty of free time to explore Montserrat on your own.
💡 Tip: Book the entrance tickets when you book the tour as well. This way, you won’t have to worry about anything on the day of your Montserrat trip.
Train and Cable Car Montserrat Day Trip from Barcelona
If you prefer to travel by yourself, you can do so from Plaça Espanya by train and cable car.
Catch the R5 train and get off at Aeri de Montserrat train station.
From there, you’ll easily find your way to the cable car station. Aeri de Montserrat will take you just below the monastery. Enjoy the scenic ride up the mountain and don’t forget to take pictures.
Beware that if you have a fear of heights or get motion sickness, it’s better to use the next option with the rack railway.
Make sure to check the timetables so you don’t miss the last cable car and your train connection. Trains run once every hour.
💡 Tip: You can buy your combo ticket from the vending machines at the Plaça Espanya train station or book them online in advance to make your planning easier.
Train and Rack Railway Montserrat Day Trip from Barcelona
Another option to plan your independent Montserrat day trip is by train and rack railway.
It’s the same R5 train as above from Plaça Espanya. For this route, you’ll need to get off at Monistrol de Montserrat station. It’s the one after Aeri de Montserrat.
From there, follow the signs to the Cremallera de Montserrat (rack railway or sometimes translated to cogwheel train).
The green train climbs up the mountain, offering a smooth and scenic ride straight to the monastery. It’s a much more suitable option if you get motion sickness or are afraid of heights.
Make sure to check the timetables so you don’t miss the last rack railway and your train back to Barcelona. R5 runs once every hour.
💡 Tip: Combo tickets are sold at the vending machines and ticket offices at the Plaça Espanya train station. I recommend booking them in advance online to skip the lines.
Train and Hike Montserrat Day Trip from Barcelona
If your main goal is to hike in Montserrat Mountain, I recommend taking the R5 train from Plaça Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat.
This is the cheapest option to get to the foot of the mountain. From there, you can follow the well-marked hiking trail to the monastery.
Keep in mind that the ascent is very steep, with an elevation gain of about 600 m (1,970 ft.). It takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on your pace.
The trail offers stunning views, but it requires good fitness and proper hiking shoes.
Plan your time carefully if you want to take the rack railway or cable car back down, as the last departures are in the early evening.
💡 Tip: Train tickets are sold at the vending machines and ticket offices at the Plaça Espanya train station. You can also use this website to check schedules and plan your trip.
Travel by Car to Montserrat from Barcelona
If you prefer flexibility, driving to Montserrat is a great option. You can find the best prices on rental cars through Discover Cars here.
Follow the well-signed A-2 and C-55 highways. The journey takes about 1 hour from Barcelona depending on the traffic.
When you get to Montserrat, you’ll find two main parking options:
- Parking at the Monastery: Limited spaces near the basilica, and the parking lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Arrive early to secure a spot.
- Parking in Monistrol de Montserrat: A better option if you want to avoid the steep drive. Park here for free and take the Cremallera de Montserrat (rack railway train) up to the monastery.
💡 Tip: The mountain roads are narrow and winding, so drive carefully. If you’re not comfortable with steep roads, parking in Monistrol and taking the train up is the best choice.
Travel by Bus from Barcelona to Montserrat
Taking a bus is a convenient option if you prefer a direct journey without transfers.
The company Autocares Julià operates daily buses from Barcelona Nord Station to Montserrat Monastery.
The trip takes about 1:25 hours and drops you off near the monastery, making it one of the easiest ways to reach Montserrat.
However, the bus runs only once in the morning and returns in the afternoon. This makes it the least flexible option for a Montserrat day trip. I personally wouldn’t consider it.
Top 5 Things to Do in Montserrat on a Day Trip from Barcelona
💡 Insider Tip: If you want to experience Barcelona without the hassle of planning, consider my custom travel itinerary service. Together, we can craft a personalized travel plan that caters to your interests. Let’s make your next Barcelona adventure magical!
1. Discover the Benedictine Abbey and the Basilica
Montserrat’s Benedictine Abbey is the heart of the mountain and home to the famous Basilica of Montserrat. If there’s one thing you should do on your Montserrat day trip from Barcelona, it’s definitely exploring them.
This centuries-old sanctuary houses the revered Black Madonna, a wooden statue believed to have miraculous powers.
Inside, the basilica’s grand architecture and golden altarpiece create a breathtaking setting. If you want to see the Black Madonna up close, be prepared for a queue, especially in peak season.
💡 Tip: To avoid long lines, visit early in the morning or book a Black Madonna entry ticket in advance.
2. Explore Montserrat Museum
Montserrat isn’t just about nature and spirituality. It also boasts an impressive art collection.
The Montserrat Museum features works by renowned artists like Dalí, Picasso, and Caravaggio, along with ancient artifacts from Egypt and the Middle East.
The museum’s six exhibition halls showcase everything from religious icons to modern paintings, making it a great stop if you enjoy history and art.
💡 Tip: The museum requires a separate ticket, but it’s included in some Montserrat combo passes. Check ticket options in advance to save time and money.
3. Admire the Best Panorama from Sant Miquel’s Cross
For one of the best viewpoints in Montserrat, take the scenic walk to Sant Miquel’s Cross.
One of the shortest and easiest Montserrat hikes offers breathtaking views of the monastery, the surrounding mountains, and even Barcelona on a clear day.
The trail starts near the monastery and takes about 30 minutes each way. Along the way, you’ll pass rocky cliffs and enjoy peaceful nature, making it a great way to escape the crowds.
💡 Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. The path is well-paved but slightly uphill.
4. Hike to the Sant Jeroni Summit
If you’re up for an adventure, the Sant Jeroni summit offers the highest and most spectacular viewpoint in Montserrat.
At 1,236 m (4,055 ft.), it provides 360-degree views stretching from the Pyrenees to the Mediterranean.
The hike takes about 3 hours (round trip) from the monastery. You can either start from the Sant Joan Funicular station (for a shorter, easier route) or hike all the way up from the basilica. Choose the best option according to how much time you have available during your Montserrat day trip.
Expect a mix of paved paths, staircases, and rocky trails.
💡 Tip: Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities along the way. The best time to hike is in the morning when the temperatures are cooler.
5. Get Unique Souvenirs and Local Delicacies
Before heading back to Barcelona, stop by Montserrat’s local market near the monastery entrance.
Here, you’ll find stalls selling artisanal cheeses, honey, fig cakes, and herbal liqueurs, all produced by local farmers and monks.
Many vendors offer free samples, so take your time tasting the local specialties before choosing your favorites.
For a special keepsake, visit the monastery gift shop, where you can buy religious icons, local wine, and artisan chocolates. These make great souvenirs or gifts from your trip to remember your Montserrat day trip.
💡 Tip: If you want to sample more amazing Catalan dishes and local wines, choose a Montserrat day trip with lunch and a winery visit.
Ticket Prices for Your Visit to Montserrat from Barcelona
If the entrance tickets aren’t included in your day trip to Montserrat option, here’s what you’ll need to pay to get in:
| Ticket | Price |
| Basilica | €7.00 (~$7.33) |
| Black Madonna (includes entrance to the Basilica) | €10.00 (~$10.50) |
| Boys’ Choir (Escolania) (includes entrance to the Basilica) | €10.00 (~$10.50) |
| Black Madonna and Boys’ Choir | €14.00 (~$14.66) |
| Museum of Montserrat | €8.00 (~$8.38) |
| Visit Montserrat Combo (includes entrance to the Basilica, Black Madonna, Montserrat Portes Endins, and the Montserrat Museum) | €18.00 (~$18.85) |
| Visit Montserrat Combo and Boys’ Choir (includes entrance to the Basilica, Black Madonna, Montserrat Portes Endins, Montserrat Museum, and the Boys’ Choir) | €23.00 (~$24.08) |
Timetables of the Train, Cable Car, Rack Railway, and Funiculars
Please note that schedules may vary based on the season and day of the week. Check the latest timetables before planning your trip to Montserrat.
| Transport | Route | First Departure | Last Departure | Frequency | Notes |
| R5 Train | Barcelona (Plaça Espanya) to Monistrol de Montserrat | 5:16 AM (Weekdays) 5:36 AM (Weekends) | 10:30 PM | Every hour | – |
| Monistrol de Montserrat to Barcelona | 6:21 AM (Weekdays) 6:41 AM (Weekends) | 10:41 PM | Every hour | – | |
| Aeri de Montserrat | Cable car to Montserrat | 9:30 AM – 6:15 PM (Nov – Feb) 8:45 AM – 7:00 PM (Mar – Oct) | – | Every 15 min | Seasonal schedule |
| Cremallera de Montserrat | Rack railway: Monistrol to Monastery | 8:48 AM | 5:48 PM | Every hour | Coordinated with R5 train |
| Rack railway: Monastery to Monistrol | 9:15 AM | 6:15 PM | Every hour | – | |
| Funicular de Sant Joan | Monastery to Upper station | 10:00 AM | 4:36 PM | Every 12 min | – |
| Upper station to Monastery | 10:12 AM | 5:00 PM | Every 12 min | – | |
| Funicular de la Santa Cova | Monastery to Santa Cova | Check in advance | Check in advance | – | Not always in operation |
- R5 train: From Barcelona’s Plaça Espanya to Monistrol de Montserrat the train operates daily. Departures start at 5:16 AM on weekdays and 5:36 AM on weekends, running every hour until 10:30 PM. From Monistrol de Montserrat, the first train leaves at 6:21 AM on weekdays, at 6:41 AM on weekends, and the last at 10:41 PM.
- Aeri de Montserrat: The cable car operates daily from 9:30 AM to 6:15 PM (November- February) and from 8:45 AM to 7:00 PM (March-October). Cabins depart every 15 minutes.
- Cremallera de Montserrat: The rack railway train runs from 8:48 AM to 5:48 PM from Monistrol to Montserrat Monastery and from 9:15 AM to 6:15 PM the other way. The trains depart every hour and you have enough time to make the connection with the R5 train.
- Funicular de Sant Joan: From the monastery to the upper station, the funicular runs every day from 10:00 AM till 4:36 PM. On the way down, it operates from 10:12 AM to 5:00 PM. The trains run every 12 minutes.
- Funicular de la Santa Cova: This funicular doesn’t operate on all days of the year. Check in advance if it’s running on the day of your Montserrat visit.
Where to Eat in Montserrat
Montserrat has a few dining options, but choices are limited. Here’s where you can grab a bite:
- Cafeteria: A quick and affordable spot for sandwiches, pastries, and coffee. Perfect if you’re short on time.
- Restaurant El Mirador: A self-service buffet restaurant near the monastery offering a variety of Mediterranean dishes. It’s convenient but can get crowded.
- Restaurant Abat Cisneros: A sit-down restaurant with traditional Catalan dishes like grilled meats and seasonal stews. Enjoying a gourmet lunch in this historical setting is one of my favorite things to do in Montserrat.
- Picnic Areas: If you prefer a scenic meal, bring your own food and enjoy a picnic with breathtaking mountain views.
Where to Stay in Montserrat
Most visitors do Montserrat as a day trip, but staying overnight lets you experience the peaceful side of the mountain after the crowds leave. Here are your options:
- Abat Cisneros Hotel: The only hotel next to the monastery. It offers simple yet comfortable rooms with stunning mountain views.
- Alberg Abat Oliba: A budget-friendly hostel-style option with private and shared rooms. Great for hikers and solo travelers.
💡 Tip: If you stay overnight, wake up early to see Montserrat at sunrise. Without the crowds, it’s a magical experience.
FAQs About the Best Day Trip from Barcelona to Montserrat
What is the easiest way to get from Barcelona to Montserrat?
The easiest way to reach Montserrat from Barcelona is by taking the R5 train from Plaça Espanya to either Aeri de Montserrat (for the cable car) or Monistrol de Montserrat (for the rack railway).
From there, you can take the cable car or rack railway up the mountain.
If that sounds complicated and you prefer a hassle-free trip, join my recommended guided tour with transportation.
How much time do I need in Montserrat?
Plan to spend at least 4–5 hours in Montserrat to see the monastery, enjoy the views, and take a short hike. If you want to explore the mountain trails or visit the museum, a full day is ideal.
How long is a Montserrat day trip?
A Montserrat day trip from Barcelona typically takes 6–8 hours, including travel time. If you only visit the monastery and viewpoints, half a day is enough. But if you want to hike or explore more, you’ll need a full day.
Can you visit Montserrat without a tour?
Yes! Montserrat is easy to visit on your own using public transport. The train, cable car, and rack railway make it accessible, and the entry fees are included in the combo “Tot Montserrat” tickets.
How much is a train ticket from Barcelona to Monserrat?
A one-way train ticket from Barcelona to Monistrol de Montserrat costs €6.50 in 2025. Combo tickets, including the cable car or rack railway, start at €24 for a round trip. The best value for money is the combined Tot Monserrat ticket.
Do I need to buy tickets to Montserrat in advance?
It’s not required, but booking train and cable car tickets in advance can save time, especially during peak seasons. If you plan to visit the Montserrat Museum or take the funiculars, buying a combined ticket online like Tot Montserrat is a good idea.
Is it worth going inside the Montserrat Monastery?
Yes! The basilica, the only part of the monastery open to visitors, requires a ticket to enter. It’s home to the famous Black Madonna, one of Montserrat’s main attractions. The stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere make it a worthwhile stop.
Now You Know How to Plan the Perfect Montserrat Day Trip
And there you have it – everything you need to know for an unforgettable Montserrat day trip from Barcelona.
From breathtaking viewpoints and scenic hikes to the historic monastery and its famous Black Madonna, Montserrat offers a perfect mix of nature, culture, and adventure.
Whether you take the train, cable car, or hike up the winding mountain trails, this stunning destination is well worth the journey.
💡 Insider Tip: If you want to experience Barcelona without the hassle of planning, consider my custom travel itinerary service. Together, we can craft a personalized travel plan that caters to your interests. Let’s make your next Barcelona adventure magical!
