Barcelona may be Catalonia’s headline star, but don’t dismiss the rest of the region as supporting acts. North, just shy of the French border, the wild Costa Brava coastline was the creative fuel for Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalí, and Truman Capote. Here, Cadaqués remains a hypnotically beautiful waterside address, while colorful Begur is a gateway to the arts, and to the art of splashing in sparkling rockpools. In Girona, you’ll likely recognize the architecture from Game of Thrones, but its exceptional gastronomic scene, heaving in Michelin stars, continues to release new chapters. Those hungry for the great outdoors will be intrigued to learn that the Catalan Pyrenees make skiing in Spain a realistic offering in winter, as well as cycling year-round.
Venture south, and the region of Tarragona pairs Roman history (UNESCO-honored, no less) with access to wineries and the luxurious wine-focused hotels of Priorat and Montsant. If you’d prefer to stay local, Sitges serves up beaches and a fun, liberal-minded spirit. Spoiled for choice? This comprehensive guide to Barcelona’s best day trips will direct you where to go, where to stay, and what to do in each.
Read our complete Barcelona travel guide here.
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