Montserrat in Spain: A Day Trip from Barcelona You Can’t Miss

Very few places in the world blend nature, history, and adventure quite like Montserrat in Spain. Rising from the Catalan landscape like something from another planet, it almost doesn’t seem real. This jagged mountain range is one of Catalonia’s top attractions, drawing crowds from all over the world. And yet, for many, it remains an unexpected travel surprise. Whether you’re a hiker, a believer, or simply looking for the best views near Barcelona, this breathtaking mountain range offers an unmissable experience.

This natural wonder is a place of legend, history, and incredible scenery. It draws hundreds of thousands of visitors, but somehow, it still feels like a hidden gem. But despite its fame, it still manages to surprise.

GOOD TO KNOW:

Don’t confuse this place in Spain with Montserrat Island in the Caribbean. This famous Catalan mountain range is a symbol of regional pride and one of Spain’s most beautiful national parks. No matter what draws you in, you’ll leave with a camera full of unforgettable views.

 

Its dramatic rock formations give it the name “saw mountain” in Catalan.

 

Is Montserrat in Spain worth visiting?

Absolutely. Montserrat is one of the most popular day trips from Barcelona. It’s just a short trip away and offers a stunning mix of nature and culture. Whether you come for the unforgettable views, the famous monastery, or the thrilling hiking trails, it delivers an experience that exceeds expectations.

The journey from Barcelona is easy, and once you arrive, the stunning views will leave you speechless. This area provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It offers an opportunity to experience Spain’s countryside at its best and explore Catalonia’s rich cultural heritage.

 

What is Montserrat in Spain known for?

Montserrat in Spain is famous for its unique rock formations, breathtaking panoramas, and rich cultural importance. Its basilica houses the miracle-working Black Madonna–one of the most sacred icons in Spain. But this isn’t just a place for prayer—it’s also an adventure destination.

Beyond its rich history and religious importance, it offers some of the best hikes in the region. With world-class hiking, climbing, mountain biking, and scenic cable car rides, it’s a perfect escape for everyone seeking beauty and adventure.

 

How much time do you need?

A visit to the monastery and its museums takes about 2–3 hours, not including travel time. If you plan to do some hiking, you will need a whole day. Try to arrive as early as possible – take the first train from Barcelona. The monastery gets crowded, and long queues for the black Madonna in the basilica are also very common, especially after 10 AM.

 

How to get there

Getting to Montserrat on a day trip from Barcelona is quick and easy. There are numerous options you can choose from—train, bus, rental car, or even a guided tour. But first, look at this map. There are two different train stations that you can use to get to the mountain, and it helps to see them on a map.

 

BY TRAIN

The most popular way  is by train. Take the regional FGC train on the R5 line towards Manresa from Plaça d’Espanya in Barcelona. The train departs every hour, with the first train leaving at 08:36 AM. The journey to the bottom of the mountain takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• Trains are not clearly marked. Look for an “FGC” sign at Plaça d’Espanya station.
• When buying a return ticket, plan ahead and decide whether you want to take the cable car or the rack railway (funicular). You can buy combined and single tickets at Plaça d’Espanya station in Barcelona or online.

 

TIP:

If you want to take the cable car, get off the train at ‘Aeri de Montserrat’. If you prefer the rack railway, get off at ‘Monistrol de Montserrat’. Always check the train timetable so you don’t miss the last train back to Barcelona.

 

1. TRAIN AND CABLE CAR – THE QUICKEST AND MOST SCENIC OPTION

From Plaça Espanya in Barcelona, take the R5 line to Aeri de Montserrat. The journey by train takes approximately one hour. It costs  €6.15 one way (€12.30 for a return ticket), as of March 2025. From Aeri de Montserrat, take the cable car to the top. The 5-minute ride costs €9.30 one way, €14 return, as of February 2025. It runs every 15 minutes but increases frequency during peak times.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• The cable car ride offers breathtaking views but may not be ideal if you have a fear of heights. The queues can be long, especially during holidays.
• Remember that the cable car doesn’t function from early January to late February for its maintenance.

 

2. TRAIN AND RACK RAILWAY – PERFECT FOR THOSE WHO DISLIKE HEIGHTS

From Plaça Espanya, take the R5 train to Monistrol de Montserrat – it’s one station farther than Aeri de Montserrat. The journey by train takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes from Barcelona. It costs €6.15 one way or €12.30 round trip, as of March 2025. Afterwards, switch to the funicular at Monistrol which runs to the top of the mountain. The 15-minute rack railway ride costs €8.70 one way, and €14.50 return, as of February 2025. The rack railway offers beautiful scenery and is a perfect alternative if you prefer a less steep ascent.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

The price is the same whether you take the cable car or the rack railway. When buying a ticket in Barcelona, you must choose one. Don’t forget, tickets are not exchangeable.

 

3. ToT TICKET – ALL INCLUSIVE OPTION

With the ToT ticket, you’ll have the VIP experience where you can enjoy round transportation from Plaça Espanya, Barcelona. For €69.90 (as of February 2025), the ticket includes a return train and your choice of cable car or rack railway. While there, you can get unlimited rides on the Sant Joan funicular to the higher viewpoints. Admission to the museum, the audiovisual exhibit, and one meal at the self-service restaurant are also a part of the deal.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

Once purchased, you’ll receive a voucher that you must exchange for the ToT Montserrat Card at the Tourist Information Office in Plaça Catalunya. You can also purchase a ticket through GetYourGuide. Their tickets might be a little more expensive but have an easier cancellation and refund process.

 

4. TRAIN AND HIKING – THE TOUGHEST AND MOST REWARDING OPTION

This is the cheapest and most rewarding way to reach the monastery. From Barcelona, take the R5 train to Monistrol. From the train station, take one of the hiking trails up to the mountain. The hike takes about 90 minutes, with stunning views along the way.

 

BY CAR

Driving from Barcelona is easy and scenic. However, the roads have sharp turns, so drive carefully. Also, you must decide whether you want to park at the monastery or at the bottom of the mountain.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• PARKING AT THE MONASTERY: paid, open 24 hours, but has limited parking spaces. It requires only a short walk up the hill.
• PARKING AT THE CREMALLERA DE MONISTROL STATION: This car park has more parking spaces and is free of charge. From here, you need to take the rack railway to the top of the mountain. Remember, if you park here, be aware of the last rack railway departure time. If you miss it, you’ll have to walk 8 km (5 miles) back to your car.

 

TAKE A GROUP TOUR/ BUS – HASSLE FREE

If you don’t want to drive or figure out train schedules or parking, taking a guided group tour by bus is an excellent option. Several companies offer half-day and full-day tours from Barcelona. This is a stress-free way to visit if you prefer organized travel.

 

Don’t forget to bookmark this post so you can quickly find it when planning your day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona.

 

Best things to do in Montserrat Spain

 

1. Monastery

The 11th century Montserrat Monastery has a history as dramatic as the mountain itself. According to legend, a group of shepherds stumbled upon a statue of St. Mary inside a cave, leading to the creation of the monastery. Since then, pilgrims have flocked to this holy site, making it one of the most sacred sites in Spain.

For over a thousand years, Benedictine monks have lived here, and the monastery is home to seventy monks now. They strictly follow a way of life unchanged since the 6th century (rules of St. Benedict). Unlike many religious sites, this monastery remains closed to visitors. The monks live in complete devotion, separated from the outside world. They devote their lives to prayer and work, untouched by tourism and modern distractions.

 

2. Mary’s Square

St. Mary’s Square is more than just a gathering place, it’s a place to stop, look, and absorb centuries of history. Locals call it Plaça de Santa Maria. It consists of three beautifully designed squares, carved directly from the mountain. This large space has three stepped levels, designed by celebrated architect Josep Puig i Cadafalch in the 20th century.

A beautiful 15th-century Gothic cross stands in the heart of the landscaped garden in the square. The new monastery façade, built from polished mountain stone, rises in front of you. It bears an inscription in Latin: Urbs Jerusalem Beata Dicta Pacis Vsio, meaning Happy city of Jerusalem, called the vision of peace. This phrase ties the site to Jerusalem – one of Christianity’s holiest cities. To the right, an elegant row of arches completes the square, enclosing a space that has stood the test of time.

 

3. Basilica Santa Maria de Montserrat

Santa Maria de Montserrat is one of the most famous attractions in Spain. Though originally built in the 16th century, the basilica we see today is a reconstruction from the 19th century after Napoleonic troops left it in ruins. The basilica is not large. The central nave stretches 58 m long, 15 m wide, and 23 m high. The architecture blends Gothic and Renaissance styles. It features wood-carved central columns, representing the prophets Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, and Daniel. The main altar, decorated with 1928 enamel, portrays biblical scenes such as The Last Supper, The Wedding at Cana, and The Multiplication of Loaves and Fishes.

Leo XIII granted it the title of minor basilica in the 19th century.

 

THE HOLY GRAIL CONNECTION:

Did this mountain once guard Christianity’s most sacred relic? Some believe so. The Benedictine Abbey may have once hidden the Holy Grail, which is why Napoleonic troops destroyed it. The legend grew so strong that in 1940, Heinrich Himmler, one of Hitler’s top leaders personally visited this place, searching for the Grail. Despite his efforts, he left empty-handed. But many believe the Grail is still hidden somewhere in the mountain.

Visiting this pilgrimage site is one of the best things to do in Montserrat Spain because many believe the Benedictine Abbey may have once hidden the Holy Grail.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

• ENTRY FEE: As of March 2025, prices to visit only the basilica start at €7 online, and €8 at the ticket office. You can also book a ticket to hear the Montserrat Boys’ Choir and see the Black Madonna.
• PHOTOGRAPHY: Allowed, but no flash and no photos during services.

 

4. Black Madonna

 

5. The famous boys’ choir

Did you know that Montserrat’s Boys’ Choir is one of the oldest in Europe? Founded in 1223, L’Escolania has been a symbol of Catalonia’s musical heritage. It’s also an essential part of the spiritual and musical life. Their music has echoed through the basilica for over 800 years. This internationally famous choir consists of about 55 boys, all of whom are  around 14 years old. They dedicate their lives to this choir, training to perfect their craft. The elite group uses extraordinary vocal technique and their pure, celestial voices create an unforgettable atmosphere. They don’t just sing here; they have performed in some of the world’s most prestigious venues.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

The boys’ choir performs twice daily at the basilica, usually at 1 PM and 7:10 PM. Their performances are one of the highlights of the trip. The experience is deeply moving. Attending their live performance is one of the best things to do in Montserrat, Spain. As of March 2025, a ticket to the Boys’ Choir (Escolania) costs €11 online or €12 at the ticket office.

 

DID YOU KNOW?

Many visit this place to hear the famous Boys’ Choir, but they are not always there. You won’t see them in summer, Christmas, Easter holidays, or on Saturdays. Plan accordingly, or you might leave disappointed.

 

6. Montserrat Museum

Just around the corner from the monastery, the Montserrat Museum is one of the best museums in Catalonia, Spain. If you expect to see historical treasures from the monastery, you may be disappointed. In the 19th century, Napoleon’s troops burned everything. Instead, this museum holds an impressive collection of artworks. You’ll find paintings by Salvador Dalí, Pablo Picasso, and Caravaggio, alongside ancient Egyptian artefacts.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

As of March 2025, the museum is open daily between 10 AM and 5.45 PM. Adults pay €8 and Children (8-16) €4. Free entry on April 27 (Feast of the Virgin of Montserrat).

 

 

7. Espai Audio Visual

Step inside the monastery’s bookshop and discover the Espai Audio Visual. This fascinating exhibition reveals the national park’s geology, the Black Virgin’s legend, and the daily lives of monks. If you miss the Boys’ Choir, you can even watch past performances here.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

The entry ticket for adults costs €5.50 and seniors and students pay €4, as of March 2025.

 

8. Market

Just a few steps from the Mirador dels Apostols building you will find a row of stalls of local suppliers selling regional specialities. Here, vendors sell creamy local cheese, golden honey, and the finest olives. Whether for a picnic with a view or a tasty gift, this is the place to shop. Skip the usual souvenirs and take home the real flavours.

 

9. Hiking in the National Park

Montserrat in Spain isn’t just about a monastery and museums; it’s an outdoor paradise. Declared a natural park in 1987, it is home to over 1,250 species of plants, thriving in a unique mix of damp and dry climates. With five hiking trails leading from the monastery, you’ll see breathtaking landscapes and rare plants that thrive in this national park. Some trails are short and easy, while others push you to your limits.

 

Consider your fitness level and how much time you have for exploring the area.

 

THE CHALLENGE:

Forget the easy way up with a funicular or a cable car. The most challenging trail starts in the valley and takes you to the monastery. It’s one of the hardest routes, taking 2-3 hours of steep climbing, but the views from the top are unforgettable.

 

10. Cross of Saint Miquel

Before roads and railways, pilgrims reached the mountain on foot, and the Cross of Saint Miquel marked their first view of the monastery. Standing at 762 m (2,500 ft), the cross is one of the best viewpoints in the area. This short but rewarding 45-minute hike offers unbeatable panoramic views over the Catalonian valley and the famous monastery.

 

11. Santa Cova

For a spiritual experience, visit Santa Cova, where the legend says that the image of the Virgin Mary was sighted inside the cave. To visit this ‘Holy Grotto’, take the Santa Cova funicular, then walk a stunning cliffside path leading to the historic chapel. The hike is short and easy, but the spiritual energy and breathtaking scenery make this a one-of-a-kind experience. If you’re short on time, this is one hike you don’t want to miss even if you are a non-hiker.

 

12. Sant Joan Chapel

The hike to Sant Joan Chapel offers breathtaking panoramic views of the region. The 1 hour and 15-minute hike is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the wildest landscapes in the area. There are three ways to reach it:

• Hike up St Michael’s Path (Cami de Sant Miquel): It’s not a difficult hike but requires more time.
• Take the Stairway of the Poor
• Ride the Sant Joan Funicular: This is the fastest and easiest way, with a 7-minute ride featuring stunning monastery views! The lower station of the rack railway to St. John’s is to the right of the beginning of the St. Michael’s Path.

 

 

 

At the top, you’ll find Tarantula Square, where multiple hiking trails lead deeper into the mountains, including one to the cave where Sant Joan and Sant Onofrius once lived.

 

13. Stairway to Heaven

Once a hidden gem, and later all over social media, the Stairway to Heaven turned into a dangerous tourist attraction. Originally an art installation, this nine-block staircase near the Mirador Restaurant became famous for its risky climbs. But now, guards and security patrol it constantly, and climbing the Stairway to Heaven is illegal. The block staircase is now fenced off and breaking the rules could cost you more than just a fine.

 

GOOD TO KNOW:

If you’re looking for epic views, there are plenty of better and legal spots, explore hiking trails instead.

 

14. Rock climbing

Did you know that this national park is one of Spain’s top climbing destinations? If you love heights and adrenaline, the national park’s steep peaks are an ideal challenge, but not for beginners. While there are no climbing facilities at the monastery, El Bruc has a company that provides equipment and guided climbs. Serious climbers head to Sant Salvador and Santa Magdalena, but their breathtaking views come with challenges.

 

Now you know what to do in Montserrat in Spain!

What to wear

Montserrat’s weather isn’t what you expect. Even on a hot day, it’s colder and windier up the mountain. Expect a big temperature drop from Barcelona, with cool breezes year-round. Always wear layers, even in summer. If you plan to hike, bring sturdy shoes—the trails can be steep in places and rocky. Don’t forget to cover your shoulders when entering the basilica.

 

The best time to visit

• Avoid weekends and Sundays— it gets packed with tourists and locals.
• If visiting in summer, arrive early before the tour buses flood in.
• Keep in mind sunlight hours and timetables as they change seasonally.
• If you don’t plan to hike, visit in the afternoon for a more peaceful experience.

 

Where to eat

When visiting this pilgrimage site, it’s worth mentioning that food options are limited. Expect basic meals at reasonable prices, but don’t expect fine dining. La Cafeteria and Self-Service restaurant offer more affordable fast food, while Bar de la Plaça sells sandwiches or hamburgers. If you prefer a sit-down meal, Restaurant Montserrat and Abat Cisneros are your best (and only) choices. Short on time? Bring snacks or grab food at the market stalls.

 

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Have you been here before? Which trail did you hike during your visit? 

 

 

 

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Last updated: 01/03/2025