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- Montserrat Monastery
- History
- Barcelona to Montserrat tours
- Black Madonna
- Museum of Montserrat
- Day trips from Barcelona
- Dining
- Things to do
- Sagrada Familia
- Park Güell
- Barcelona Flamenco Show Tickets
- Camp Nou Tours
- Casa Batllo
- Casa Mila
- Portaventura World
- Gaudi Tours Barcelona
- Hola Barcelona Travel Card
- Wax Museum Barcelona
- Palau De La Musica Catalana
- Erotic Museum of Barcelona
- Barcelona Zoo
- KBr Photography Center Mapfre Foundation
- Big Fun Museum
- Barcelona Aquarium
- Montjuic Cable Car
- Moco Museum Barcelona
Book Montserrat Tickets & Tours
Headout is an authorized and trusted partner of the venue, offering curated experiences to enjoy this attraction.
Design your own perfect itinerary with this bundle of tickets, audio guides, & maps.
- Visit the historic abbey of Montserrat and behold the stunning statue of Black Madonna with timed entry. The rest of your visit is yours to plan!
- Uncover how the monks of the monastery defied Franco's rule and other fascinating stories with an insightful multilingual audio guide.
- Take in scenic views, tour the basilica’s golden halls, and explore Montserrat with a map and brochure pointing to its highlights—all at your own pace!
- Access the museum and audio-visual exhibit for vivid glimpses of the Monastery's evolution and the changing symbolism of the Virgin Mary over time.
- Choose to upgrade: forget commute hassles with easy train transfers and a scenic rack railway ride, or listen to Europe’s oldest boys' choir!
Design your own perfect itinerary with this bundle of tickets, audio guides, & maps.
- Visit the historic abbey of Montserrat and behold the stunning statue of Black Madonna with timed entry. The rest of your visit is yours to plan!
- Uncover how the monks of the monastery defied Franco's rule and other fascinating stories with an insightful multilingual audio guide.
- Take in scenic views, tour the basilica’s golden halls, and explore Montserrat with a map and brochure pointing to its highlights—all at your own pace!
- Access the museum and audio-visual exhibit for vivid glimpses of the Monastery's evolution and the changing symbolism of the Virgin Mary over time.
- Choose to upgrade: forget commute hassles with easy train transfers and a scenic rack railway ride, or listen to Europe’s oldest boys' choir!
Inclusions
- Timed entry to Black Madonna
- Entry to the Museum of Montserrat
- Entry to the Montserrat audiovisual exhibit
- Audio guide for the basilica and Black Madonna in Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, and Japanese
- Map & informative booklet
- Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir performance (as per option selected)
- Train transfers from Barcelona (as per option selected)
- Rack railway ride in Montserrat (as per option selected)
- Tip: On a bright and pleasant day, plan a picnic on top of the mountain as you soak in the spiritual vibes of Montserrat.
- During booking, the time slot you select is for your timed entrance to visit Black Madonna. All other parts of your visit can be done at your own pace.
- When planning your visit from Barcelona, factor in at least 70 minutes for the commute and 20 minutes for the uphill walk to the Black Madonna.
- The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to guests with disabilities but wheelchair users won’t be able to get right up to the Black Madonna.
- Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
- Mass at the Basilica takes place Monday to Saturday at 11am and 9.30am on all holidays including Sundays.
- The Escolania de Montserrat boys sing at the basilica daily between Monday to Friday at 1pm and during Sunday Mass at 11am.
- Choir performance times may vary in accordance with special religious celebrations and the school calendar.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.1
491 ratings
261
131
38
24
37
What our guests say
Waybon
Nov 2024Verified booking
Montserrat was very moving from a spiritual and natural beauty perspective. Having all my arrangements in advance made it seamless.
Lysette
Nov 2024Verified booking
Was very beautiful. Too much for 1 day. However, train to the cave was closed Also audio did not really work fine. Unclear when to play what.
View original review in Dutch
Jhoo
Nov 2024Verified booking
It was awesome! If you visit Montserrrat, I do rercommend you to stay overnight there. Montserrat's night offers you entire different experience!
Deborah
Nov 2024Verified booking
It was great that everything was included. However, the "audio guide" was the app! No one told us that until we got there, so we were not able to do that part as wi-fi & cell signal was weak so we couldn't download it. So if you go, download the app & bring headsets!!! Other than than it was an amazing day trip that was totally worth it. We were warned because of the weather to go another day but it was our last day so we braved the rain, which eventually stopped & we had a little bit of sunshine! :).
Christine
Nov 2024Verified booking
There is so much more to do at Montserat than I thought. We were there from 9-5, and still could have stayed longer. Exchanging the vouchers for tickets was quite painless. We wanted to leave Barcelona early, so had to get the train ticket the day before, as the office only opens at 8am. We enjoyed the freedom of having an audio guide rather than traipsing after someone.
Anne
Oct 2024Verified booking
Easy to get all info, audio guide, etc. We were able to enter the Basilica about 30 min. ahead of our scheduled time for the Madonna. It was all wonderful and we're so glad we went!
ANITA
Oct 2024Verified booking
The arrangement of including the train and audio guide was a great help. The whole trip was interesting and informative.
JORGE
Oct 2024Verified booking
Everything was as offered And our speculation was fully met. It is a place of extraordinary beauty. It's a pity that one day is too little for so much to see
View original review in Portuguese
William
Oct 2024Verified booking
Having everything in one package was great. Reason a 4 rather than a 5 is instructions could have been better regarding the transfers between train to Monserrat and Monastery and which tickets are used for what activity.
Solomiya
Sep 2024Verified booking
Everything went smoothly. It’s very convenient to have all your tickets purchased online and be able to easily transfer between trains. Finding the booth to retrieve our tickets was straightforward. Montserrat is a truly beautiful place to visit, and I highly recommend setting aside an entire day for this trip. There are numerous hiking paths to explore, offering stunning views of the area. You’ll also find a few nice spots to enjoy a coffee or lunch. We definitely plan to come back to experience more of what this amazing area has to offer.
MICHEL
Sep 2024Verified booking
The visit was superb. Monserrat really is a magical place. The advantage of the e-ticket booked with Headout is that you don't have to queue to see the black virgin. Well done
View original review in French
Louise
Sep 2024Verified booking
To have all the tickets required to experience the Montserrat monastery: train tickets, cog railway tickets, museum tickets, audiovisual tickets, audio guide. Once we were there, we were able to enjoy it to the full. Thank you so much!
View original review in French
Josefina
Aug 2024Verified booking
The explanations to get the train and museum tickets were very clear, the audio guide was very useful to learn more about Montserrat and its history and with the ticket we were given a medal of the Virgin of Montserrat and a bag of cookies. It is worth buying this experience!
View original review in Spanish
Dr.
Jul 2024Verified booking
Beautiful monastry, superb landscape, excellent spiritual experience. Very informative and lengthy audio guide after initial issue with meeting time to start the experience. The tourist office only opens at 9 for picking up the audio guude, while the tour was scheduled for 8:30 and ticket said that you must not be late. Given phone numbers were easily reached and support was friendly, though the situation looked unfamiliar to them.
Kathleen
Jul 2024Verified booking
The cathedral and Black Madonna were beautiful. Our trip to Monsarat was outstanding. Enjoyed the scenery, the museum, the church and the AV show.
Shauna
Jul 2024Verified booking
I was pleased to be able to visit the Monastey, book a visit ticket with Headout, without a full tour experience, just the audio. But I was not told WHERE to get the self-guided audio. Thank goodness a Monserat security woman helped me out! Beautiful place.
Jennifer
Jun 2024Verified booking
Absolutely amazing. We were able to spend hours wandering before our Black Madonna time slot. Well worth the money and visit!
Jennifer
Jun 2024Verified booking
Valeria (Valerie was freaking amazing!!!) The food was fantastic and was such a tribute to Barcelona. Valerie was so informed and taught our whole family so much of the history of Spain and Barcelona itself. I hope Valerie stays with you for a very long time!!! Love, The Morrison's from Ohio
Kristina
Jun 2024Verified booking
Because we bought a late visit, we didn't get to visit any of the museums and everything gat closed at 6 pm. It could have been mentioned somehow He recomendaction of how long the trip to Monserat would really take. It was written 1,5 hours before the reserved time to get onto the train. But... we kad to wait 48 min. inbetween the trains. There were no working hours of museums mentioned. Some did visit the place, but would have been nice to explore whole atmosphere. A lot of places were already closed after the church and Black Madonna's visit.
Barbara
Jun 2024Verified booking
Everything was quick and easy to find and redeem, Montserrat is beautiful and worth spending a few hours in What I didn't like was having to give them my Credit card details for the audiobook deposit
Armelle
Jun 2024Verified booking
The day was extremely well organized: train, rack railway, audio tour, visit to the Black Madonna. Everything was synchronized and there was no waiting. Thank you so much!
View original review in French
Blinda
May 2024Verified booking
Loved the links to the train station and where to go once we got there!!! First time traveller to Barcelona and this made it so easy!!!!
Sonia
May 2024Verified booking
I purchased all-inclusive tickets online. Monserrat is spectacular. The view is amazing. The walking is not for the faint of heart as the climbing of stairs is steep; however, the beauty of it is worth it and it is equipped for wheelchairs. I highly recommend visiting. It's best to redeem tickets at the subtrain station downtown near the bull-fighting ring. It's a little tricky getting there but you'll need to catch R5 subtrain all the way to Massarat. Once there, you'll catch a different rail train that takes you up the mountain. These two trains are near each other.
Lee
May 2024Verified booking
Best to visit in the early morning to beat the crowd. Tourist centre only opens at 9 am so even if you book the earlier slots for visiting the basilica and black Madonna, you have to wait to collect the audio guide later. Overall smooth experience.
AUBERT
Apr 2024Verified booking
Magnificent view ... and beautiful site with the bonus of good weather. 😍😍😍😍
View original review in French
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION12 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERTrain
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Barcelona-Plaça Espanya Station
Ticket redemption takes place at the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya ticket office at Barcelona-Plaça Espanya Station.
57 km
60 minutes
1
Montserrat Monastery
2 attractions
2 activities
Tickets included
Hop on a train from Barcelona and let the journey begin! You'll soon be soaring up the mountain on a thrilling rack railway ride, offering breathtaking views at every turn. Once at the summit, explore the majestic Gothic basilica and gain exclusive access to the revered Black Madonna. Unravel the mysteries of Montserrat's history with an immersive audio guide and marvel at priceless art by Dali and Picasso at the museum.
Highlights
1. Rack railway ride
Included in price
Enjoy breathtaking views as you ascend to the stunning Montserrat mountain range. Hop aboard the Cremallera, a rack railway. This unique train ride offers a smooth and enjoyable journey, winding through rugged cliffs as it climbs toward the historic monastery. The Cremallera allows you to fully enjoy the natural splendor and serenity of Montserrat from the very start of your visit.
2. Basilica of Montserrat
Tickets included
Step into the hallowed halls of the Basilica of Montserrat and come face-to-face with the iconic Black Madonna, a revered religious relic. With timed entry, you'll have exclusive access to this centuries-old Romanesque sculpture. Don't miss the chance to attend a captivating Mass, held daily at 11am and at 9:30am on Sundays and holidays.
3. Museum of Montserrat
Tickets included
Discover a world-class museum recognized as a national treasure since 2006. See artworks by iconic artists like Monet, Dali, and Picasso. Learn about its history with significant archaeological collections from ancient civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Persia, and Egypt.
4. Montserrat audiovisual exhibition
Included in price
Explore the historic Holy Grotto, linked to the Virgin Mary. Delve into the rich history of Montserrat through the "Montserrat Portes Endins" audiovisual exhibition. See art and ancient artifacts at the open-air Museum of Montserrat.
2
END POINT
Barcelona-Plaça Espanya Station
Travel stress-free with hourly trains and convenient roundtrip access!
- In Barcelona? Hop on a train to Montserrat, ride the iconic rack railway uphill, then explore like a pro with a handy map and booklet!
- Climb up to the gothic basilica with gold accent domes and get exclusive access to Black Madonna with timed access.
- Tune into an audio commentary on the history of the monastery and the symbolism of the Virgin's orb in the language most comfortable to you.
- Stop by the museum to look at rare artworks by the likes of Dali and Picasso, then unlock the life of a monk through state-of-the-art audio-visuals.
- With a simple upgrade, be part of historic Basilica ceremonies and community prayers, serenaded by the angelic voices of Escolanía de Montserrat.
Travel stress-free with hourly trains and convenient roundtrip access!
- In Barcelona? Hop on a train to Montserrat, ride the iconic rack railway uphill, then explore like a pro with a handy map and booklet!
- Climb up to the gothic basilica with gold accent domes and get exclusive access to Black Madonna with timed access.
- Tune into an audio commentary on the history of the monastery and the symbolism of the Virgin's orb in the language most comfortable to you.
- Stop by the museum to look at rare artworks by the likes of Dali and Picasso, then unlock the life of a monk through state-of-the-art audio-visuals.
- With a simple upgrade, be part of historic Basilica ceremonies and community prayers, serenaded by the angelic voices of Escolanía de Montserrat.
Inclusions
- Train transfers from Barcelona
- Timed entry to Black Madonna
- Entry to the Museum of Montserrat
- Entry to the Montserrat audiovisual exhibit
- Rack railway ride
- Audio guide for the monastery and Black Madonna in Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, and Japanese
- Escolania de Montserrat boys' choir performance (optional)
- Map & informative booklet
- Tip: Participate in a time-honored tradition of praying by lighting a candle along the Ave Maria Path, the corridor leading up to the Black Madonna.
- During booking, the time slot you select is for your timed entrance to visit Black Madonna. All other parts of your visit can be done at your own pace.
- When planning your visit from Barcelona, factor in at least 70 minutes for the commute and 20 minutes for the uphill walk to the Black Madonna.
- The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to guests with disabilities but wheelchair users won’t be able to get right up to the Black Madonna.
- Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
- Mass at the Basilica takes place Monday to Saturday at 11am and 9.30am on all holidays including Sundays.
- The Escolania de Montserrat boys sing at the basilica daily between Monday to Friday at 1pm and during Sunday Mass at 11am.
- Choir performance times may vary in accordance with special religious celebrations and the school calendar.
- These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.2
284 ratings
158
73
19
10
24
What our guests say
Lysette
Nov 2024Verified booking
Was very beautiful. Too much for 1 day. However, train to the cave was closed Also audio did not really work fine. Unclear when to play what.
View original review in Dutch
Deborah
Nov 2024Verified booking
It was great that everything was included. However, the "audio guide" was the app! No one told us that until we got there, so we were not able to do that part as wi-fi & cell signal was weak so we couldn't download it. So if you go, download the app & bring headsets!!! Other than than it was an amazing day trip that was totally worth it. We were warned because of the weather to go another day but it was our last day so we braved the rain, which eventually stopped & we had a little bit of sunshine! :).
Christine
Nov 2024Verified booking
There is so much more to do at Montserat than I thought. We were there from 9-5, and still could have stayed longer. Exchanging the vouchers for tickets was quite painless. We wanted to leave Barcelona early, so had to get the train ticket the day before, as the office only opens at 8am. We enjoyed the freedom of having an audio guide rather than traipsing after someone.
ANITA
Oct 2024Verified booking
The arrangement of including the train and audio guide was a great help. The whole trip was interesting and informative.
JORGE
Oct 2024Verified booking
Everything was as offered And our speculation was fully met. It is a place of extraordinary beauty. It's a pity that one day is too little for so much to see
View original review in Portuguese
William
Oct 2024Verified booking
Having everything in one package was great. Reason a 4 rather than a 5 is instructions could have been better regarding the transfers between train to Monserrat and Monastery and which tickets are used for what activity.
Solomiya
Sep 2024Verified booking
Everything went smoothly. It’s very convenient to have all your tickets purchased online and be able to easily transfer between trains. Finding the booth to retrieve our tickets was straightforward. Montserrat is a truly beautiful place to visit, and I highly recommend setting aside an entire day for this trip. There are numerous hiking paths to explore, offering stunning views of the area. You’ll also find a few nice spots to enjoy a coffee or lunch. We definitely plan to come back to experience more of what this amazing area has to offer.
Elana
Sep 2024Verified booking
The overall place was great. Instructioons on which stop to get off. Where not great and when we got there it was hit difficult to navigate. Otherwise it was great. By telling clients to leave enough time to get there. You are 100 percent correct. And I appreciated that. It was also a holiday and found out the last minute. Over all was good
Louise
Sep 2024Verified booking
To have all the tickets required to experience the Montserrat monastery: train tickets, cog railway tickets, museum tickets, audiovisual tickets, audio guide. Once we were there, we were able to enjoy it to the full. Thank you so much!
View original review in French
Bonnie
Sep 2024Verified booking
Getting away from the Barcelona crowds and experiencing this stunning place was exactly what was needed, Please let your customers know that they have to get their audio guides at the Ti station! We almost missed our 1:00 slot as we didn't understand this important "must do."
Lucien
Sep 2024Verified booking
All the reservations through the purchased tickets (train tickets, cable car, site visits and return trip) were correct like clockwork. The itinerary and accompanying explanations and information were also complete and thus very helpful. The only issue that worried us was the weeks of waiting for the tickets. Although we booked quite early and immediately received the booking confirmation with booking number but for the ticktes we ended up having to contact you ourselves via chat a week before our departure because the tickets were delayed. The person at the chat immediately helped us well to download the tickets. In conclusion, organizationally everything was correct which left us with a very good feeling about our visit to Montserrat.
View original review in Dutch
Josefina
Aug 2024Verified booking
The explanations to get the train and museum tickets were very clear, the audio guide was very useful to learn more about Montserrat and its history and with the ticket we were given a medal of the Virgin of Montserrat and a bag of cookies. It is worth buying this experience!
View original review in Spanish
Jennifer
Jun 2024Verified booking
Absolutely amazing. We were able to spend hours wandering before our Black Madonna time slot. Well worth the money and visit!
Kristina
Jun 2024Verified booking
Because we bought a late visit, we didn't get to visit any of the museums and everything gat closed at 6 pm. It could have been mentioned somehow He recomendaction of how long the trip to Monserat would really take. It was written 1,5 hours before the reserved time to get onto the train. But... we kad to wait 48 min. inbetween the trains. There were no working hours of museums mentioned. Some did visit the place, but would have been nice to explore whole atmosphere. A lot of places were already closed after the church and Black Madonna's visit.
Barbara
Jun 2024Verified booking
Everything was quick and easy to find and redeem, Montserrat is beautiful and worth spending a few hours in What I didn't like was having to give them my Credit card details for the audiobook deposit
Armelle
Jun 2024Verified booking
The day was extremely well organized: train, rack railway, audio tour, visit to the Black Madonna. Everything was synchronized and there was no waiting. Thank you so much!
View original review in French
Blinda
May 2024Verified booking
Loved the links to the train station and where to go once we got there!!! First time traveller to Barcelona and this made it so easy!!!!
Sonia
May 2024Verified booking
I purchased all-inclusive tickets online. Monserrat is spectacular. The view is amazing. The walking is not for the faint of heart as the climbing of stairs is steep; however, the beauty of it is worth it and it is equipped for wheelchairs. I highly recommend visiting. It's best to redeem tickets at the subtrain station downtown near the bull-fighting ring. It's a little tricky getting there but you'll need to catch R5 subtrain all the way to Massarat. Once there, you'll catch a different rail train that takes you up the mountain. These two trains are near each other.
Cindy
Apr 2024Verified booking
Montserrat is an absolute must if you travel to Barcelona. The experience was surreal. A lot of walking and inclines, so be prepared. Folks with limited mobility might have difficulties walking around. Tickets are easy to purchase with headout and process was easy to follow. 10/10 would highly recommend.
Steven
Apr 2024Verified booking
The scenery and the monetary were beautiful. We were also pleasantly surprised by the art museum as well. It was a lot more extensive than we were expecting. Great hiking to be had as well and some incredible panoramic views. A couple tips though: if you buy the ticket and train ride from Barcelona combo pass, make sure not to schedule the morning pass. The train from Barcelona doesn't even leave until around 0800 and takes a little over an hour to get there. Though if you miss your time slot - you can still get in. You even go to the front of the line. It can just be a little confusing figuring all that out. Also, although this combo pass is great - the passes that were emailed didn't come with instructions on how to actually use it. Turns out that the one QR code is for both the train and the monetary. I did contact support and they d it s send the actual tickets to my email which cleared this up a bit.
Cherie
Apr 2024Verified booking
All this time we thought it wasn't possible to do a DIY tour for Montserrat that we had to book a bus going there. Thanks to headout for making the DIY experience possible and convenient. Just a reco on the instructions to claim your train tickets in the Place de España ticket booth.
Lisa
Apr 2024Verified booking
The direction was not clear on the ticket and the agent from headout was also reading what I am reading and can not give me extra detail. It's frustating. It was not a pleasant experience , we missed our train going there because of the unclear direction from headout and have to wait extra 1 hour and going back the train broke down so we have to wait an extra 2 hours.
Javier
Feb 2024Verified booking
The journey to the Monastery is very nice with spectacular views. The natural environment that surrounds the Monastery is unmatched and the Church with its decorated altars, walls and ceilings is just amazing...a very entertaining day!
View original review in Spanish
Tanya
Jan 2024Verified booking
The overall impression was amazing and all activities included in my ticket were perfectly done. The most georgeous was umique opportunity to touch Black Madona and to attend the service
Sonia
Dec 2024Verified booking
Well organised & wonderful place
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION4 hours 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Minibus
Timeline
Map
START POINT
Julia Travel Barcelona at Planta baja delante
Get Ready to Explore! Meet your friendly guide at Julià Travel Barcelona (Carrer d'Alí-Bei, 80 Local nº 180 - Planta baja Delante del andén 19 / In front of the Platform 19, 08013 Barcelona, Spain)
59 km
64 minutes
1
Montserrat Monastery
2 attractions
2 activities
Tickets included
Dating back to the 11th century, Montserrat Monastery perches atop distinctive rock formations, attracting visitors to its revered Black Madonna statue. With a millennium of history, the monastery showcases artistic treasures by El Greco and Caravaggio, while the Escolania de Montserrat, Europe's oldest boys' choir, captivates audiences with centuries-old melodies.
Highlights
1. Ride the Rack Railway
Included in price
Get ready for a unique experience riding the rack railway uphill. You'll soak in the beauty of jagged peaks as you reach a height of over 4,000 feet.
2. Basilica of Montserrat
Tickets included
Listen to fascinating stories of miraculous apparitions as you admire the famous Black Madonna, a 12th-century Romanesque carving. Your timed entry ticket ensures a seamless visit to the Basilica of Montserrat.
3. Museum of Montserrat
Tickets included
Enjoy free time to explore the museum which is a treasure trove of Montserrat's art and history. Enjoy masterpieces by famous artists like Monet, Dali, and Picasso and explore ancient artifacts from civilizations like Mesopotamia, Persia, and Egypt. You can also enjoy locally produced liquors, crafted by the monks themselves!
4. Montserrat audiovisual exhibit
Included in price
Discover the magic of Montserrat in this open-air museum! Explore the legendary Holy Grotto, linked to the miraculous appearance of the Virgin Mary. Then, step into the world of "Montserrat Portes Endins," an audiovisual journey that reveals the secrets of the monastery and its surroundings.
2
END POINT
Julia Travel Barcelona at Planta baja delante
Say goodbye to planning stress with this thoughtfully organized tour!
- Board a comfy AC coach in Barcelona to explore the massive complex of Montserrat Monastery with a knowledgeable guide leading your way.
- Listen to your guide spill stories of miraculous apparitions as you marvel at the famous carvings of the Black Madonna with timed entry tickets.
- Get ready for a unique experience riding the rack railway uphill, soak in the beauty of jagged peaks, and taste local liquor.
- Unravel Montserrat's thousand-year history with immersive audiovisuals, ancient monastic artifacts, and a moving Escolania choir finale.
- Tailor your tour: beat the crowds with a morning tour or catch the sunset with an afternoon tour. Choose from English and Spanish-speaking guides.
Say goodbye to planning stress with this thoughtfully organized tour!
- Board a comfy AC coach in Barcelona to explore the massive complex of Montserrat Monastery with a knowledgeable guide leading your way.
- Listen to your guide spill stories of miraculous apparitions as you marvel at the famous carvings of the Black Madonna with timed entry tickets.
- Get ready for a unique experience riding the rack railway uphill, soak in the beauty of jagged peaks, and taste local liquor.
- Unravel Montserrat's thousand-year history with immersive audiovisuals, ancient monastic artifacts, and a moving Escolania choir finale.
- Tailor your tour: beat the crowds with a morning tour or catch the sunset with an afternoon tour. Choose from English and Spanish-speaking guides.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Montserrat Monastery
- AC coach transfers from Barcelona
- Expert English and Spanish-speaking monolingual/bilingual guide (as per option selected)
- Timed entry to Black Madonna
- Entry to the Montserrat audiovisual exhibit
- Rack railway ride
- Local liquor tasting
- Radio guide system
- Tip: Treat yourself to Mató, a type of fresh cheese that is used to make a traditional dessert, meil i mató, which is made of cheese and honey.
- During booking, the time slot you select is for your timed entrance to visit Black Madonna. All other parts of your visit can be done at your own pace.
- The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to guests with disabilities but wheelchair users won’t be able to get right up to the Black Madonna.
- Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
- Be ready for a brisk walk up to the Black Madonna.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
How do we collect reviews?
Snapshots from our guests
4.5
1.2K ratings
892
195
39
16
76
What our guests say
Timothy
Nov 2024Verified booking
Billed as half day and it just squeezed into that at 4.5 hours but it felt a little rushed. But guide Sandra was excellent, funny and good English. Why the Monastery cannot implement a better queueing system is a mystery as they plenty of experience, but that's not the tour company fault.
Fagurel
Oct 2024Verified booking
Our guide, Gloria, was amazing during this experience. The stories she told us were relevant and captured the true essence of the place! Thank you!
Carissa
Oct 2024Verified booking
The tour was very smooth with our guide Julia. She was very fun, had great suggestions for our group and even got us into the monastery early for our visit.
LEROY
Sep 2024Verified booking
The organization was impeccable. The guide, Gloria, helped us with her comments and, above all, she made sure to give us information to reassure us at every stage of the visit: meeting point, timetable, tourist information and all with a sense of humour. At the start, everything we saw was just as perfect: a smiling welcome, precise information.
View original review in French
Kusenszki
Aug 2024Verified booking
The best experience with a guide! and above all Glorya cares and makes every trip a pleasant pastime😍 I recommend it 100%.
View original review in Spanish
M.
Jul 2024Verified booking
Super arranged. Pick-up location was easy to find. Good guide. Knew a lot. Told nice story. Montserrat itself is impressive. Located in a beautiful location. Especially take the little train to the top. Views are spectacular.
View original review in Dutch
Lachlan
Jul 2024Verified booking
The tour guide was great. However, we learned when we reached the monastery that we needed red tickets to do the liquor tasting, which we weren't given. It was one of the things we were most looking forward to
Dana
Jun 2024Verified booking
Everything went smoothly. I booked it the night before. It was self explanatory on where to meet and what time. Bus ride was smooth. Train ride was neat. Tour was good. Our tour operator was informative and easy to talk to. All in all a good trip.
Whitney
Mar 2024Verified booking
Our guide was wonderful. Bus ride was comfortable. It was unfortunate the headphones weren't working as it did make it hard to hear the guide at times. I wish we had just a little bit longer there so they was ample time to take the car up to the cave. We were worried about missing the bus so we didn't go up.
LIsa
Mar 2024Verified booking
Freedom to explore on my own. Enjoyed the tour guide who did a solid job of introducing this beatiful place to his guests.
AUDREY
Feb 2024Verified booking
Loved the trip to Montserrat! The Monastery is really worth visiting. For the young and fit who could still hike, tours with the hiking component would be advisable (or if you prefer to do it by yourself, you can as well, with much care of course given the steep points and winds that could get strong) - the views are amazing and it is a one-of-a-kind of experience that you won't get from just about anywhere. Our guide, Sarah, was very nice and accommodating as well.
Luis
Nov 2024Verified booking
Fantastic time would definitely recommend, all went smoothly and guide was amazing!
Zdenka
Oct 2024Verified booking
We loved Sandra ❤️. So much fun !
Lyndon
Sep 2024Verified booking
Convenient and the guide is clearly helpful
Gintarė
Aug 2024Verified booking
The best guide - Maria. Everything was smoothly planned and explained. Easy to buy tickets.
Masakimi
Aug 2024Verified booking
Everything went very smoothly and Carlos was the best!
Jeremy
Jul 2024Verified booking
Sasha our guide was awesome! Could have spent a full day exploring and wish that was an option for us that day!
Juri
Jul 2024Verified booking
Too much waiting and too much time in the bus, the amount of information provided by gude was very poor and primitive
Jennifer
Jun 2024Verified booking
Montserrat was beautiful and definitely worth seeing.
Francisco
May 2024Verified booking
Very clear instructions. Montserrat is an amazing day trip from Barcelona.
David
Feb 2024Verified booking
Excellent Guides! Loved the view and the monastery..
Mireya
Dec 2024Verified booking
Emely
Dec 2024Verified booking
Chia
Dec 2024Verified booking
Estela
Dec 2024Verified booking
Itinerary
TOTAL DURATION8 hours
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
START POINT
Starting point details will be shared along with your tickets
66 km
64 minutes
1
Montserrat Monastery
420 min
3 activities
Free Admission
Dating back to the 11th century, Montserrat Monastery perches atop distinctive rock formations, attracting visitors to its revered Black Madonna statue. With a millennium of history, the monastery showcases artistic treasures by El Greco and Caravaggio, while the Escolania de Montserrat, Europe's oldest boys' choir, captivates audiences with centuries-old melodies.
Highlights
1. Rack-railway ride
Included in price
The rack-railway is one of the highest in Europe, ascending over 1,000 meters. The ride not only provides stunning panoramic views of the mountains but also gives you a taste of local history, as it has been in operation since the early 20th century.
For the best experience, sit on the left side of the train to catch the most stunning views of the Montserrat peaks.
2. Vineyard visit
Included in price
Discover a charming boutique winery set within a 10th-century castle, proudly maintained by the same family for 36 generations. Here, you’ll immerse yourself in local Catalan and Spanish traditions, starting with a guided tour of the estate, where history and picturesque vineyards intertwine.
3. Authentic Catalan lunch
Lunch
Select the lunch option that suits you best: a spread of traditional tapas or a 3-course meal made with fresh regional ingredients. Pair it with local wines for a true Catalan experience.
4. Wine tasting
Included in price
Sip on 3 distinct wines, locally produced from indigenous grape varieties unique to the region as you learn about the origin and characteristics of valley wines.
2
END POINT
History, nature, spirituality, gastronomy, and wines—this Montserrat tour blends it all!
- Set off on a gastronomic adventure amid the historic abbey of Montserrat, complete with AC transfers, lunch, a guide, and a planned itinerary!
- Experience culinary heritage: tour a family-run vineyard, sip valley wines, and taste local liquors with sweet bread.
- Delve into gold-accented details of the Basilica and learn all about the invasion of Napoleon as your guide shares their extensive knowledge.
- Feel the mystical energy of the land while enjoying sweeping views of rugged peaks and green valleys on a cogwheel train ride.
- Indulge in a meal that suits your taste, select a traditional tapas spread or a 3-course meal made with seasonal native ingredients.
History, nature, spirituality, gastronomy, and wines—this Montserrat tour blends it all!
- Set off on a gastronomic adventure amid the historic abbey of Montserrat, complete with AC transfers, lunch, a guide, and a planned itinerary!
- Experience culinary heritage: tour a family-run vineyard, sip valley wines, and taste local liquors with sweet bread.
- Delve into gold-accented details of the Basilica and learn all about the invasion of Napoleon as your guide shares their extensive knowledge.
- Feel the mystical energy of the land while enjoying sweeping views of rugged peaks and green valleys on a cogwheel train ride.
- Indulge in a meal that suits your taste, select a traditional tapas spread or a 3-course meal made with seasonal native ingredients.
Inclusions
- Guided tour of Montserrat Monastery & vineyard
- AC coach transfers from Barcelona
- Expert English-speaking guide
- Cable-car/rack railway ride
- Wine tasting
- 3-course lunch with wine (as per option selected)
- Wine & tapas brunch (as per option selected)
- Tip: Swing by the gift shop for a range of religious souvenirs and crafts. Don’t forget to taste cookies baked by nuns at the bakery counter!
- The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to wheelchair users.
- Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
- Be ready for a brisk walk up to the Black Madonna.
- Please note that the order of your visit may be subject to change.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Reviews
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What our guests say
Paul
Oct 2024Verified booking
The booking experience was very good and the excursion was an excellent value! Isabele, our tour guide was very informative, charming and funny; the only clarification needed in the description is that the train down runs on the weekends only and during the week, the way down is via gondola.
Siddhardha
Aug 2024Verified booking
Loved the trip and Mateo was excellent. His friendly nature and knowledge was excellent. We will definitely use headout for our next holiday.
Veronique
Jul 2024Verified booking
We loved everything about this tour. The guide Trini was amazing, the food was tasty, the visit was a perfect mix between teaching and free time. We would do it again in a heartbeat.
Patricia
Jun 2024Verified booking
The tour guides were excellent, especially Javi. Very knowledgeable, friendly, and funny. Tapas lunch and wine tasting were good. Not enough time allotted to explore Montserrat and ride to the mountain top or take the cogwheel train. Basilica was as described.
Pauline
Jun 2024Verified booking
The Guided trip to Montserrat with lunch at a farmhose was a great experience. Nice, local food for lunch together with other people joining the trip.
Michale
Oct 2024Verified booking
No welcome drink on arrival. Monastery was magnificent, cable car ride was stunning
Beverley
Oct 2024Verified booking
Roger our guide was great and the place is amazing, only wished I had more time there.
Franz
Aug 2024Verified booking
The guide was very competent. The Monastery was very imposant. We liked The church. The lunch was very good.
VIRANIN
Jul 2024Verified booking
Pleasant trip. Very professional guide
View original review in French
Holly
May 2024Verified booking
Berta was a wonderful tour guide, very friendly and outgoing. She was thorough about where to meet and when.
Randi
Nov 2024Verified booking
Maria
Nov 2024Verified booking
Willermine
Sep 2024Verified booking
Viktoriia
Aug 2024Verified booking
Cemanuel
Aug 2024Verified booking
Verneta
Jul 2024Verified booking
Cynthia
Jul 2024Verified booking
Nicolae-Posescu
Jun 2024Verified booking
Daniel
Nov 2023Verified booking
Mariana
Sep 2023Verified booking
Everything was top. The travel to Monserrat, the guide Philissa, the winery and the tapas with the wine. I highly recommend to feel this experience! Thank you!
Vladyslav
Aug 2023Verified booking
There weren't ticket for train About winery , was just little bit tapas, that's all. About monsterrat, we were there only 2:30 h, that's so short.
Anne
Aug 2023Verified booking
Kamila
Aug 2023Verified booking
Perfect organisation and info about the tour. We were lucky to be guided by Tonio, who was a true professional with lots of interesting stories! Thank you - we would definitely recommend the experience :)
Kim
Dec 2022Verified booking
The guides (both) were outstanding! Great tour! soooooo worth it! Thank you
Arindam
Nov 2022Verified booking
Jennifer is just great. She is very knowledgeable and caring.
Book comfy transfers from Barcelona and get the freedom to explore your day as you wish!
- Gear up for an early morning ride in an air-conditioned bus to Montserrat Monastery, a spiritual retreat nestled on a mountain near Barcelona.
- With a tour leader by your side, enjoy hassle-free transfers. Sit back, ask about the Monastery, and get personalized recommendations.
- Bask in the golden rays of sunrise as stunning views unfold, leaving you with cherished memories and plenty of Instagrammable moments!
- Hike the trail, admire the Basilica's lavish interiors, or sip liquor made by monks—create your own adventure, made of things that warm your heart.
Book comfy transfers from Barcelona and get the freedom to explore your day as you wish!
- Gear up for an early morning ride in an air-conditioned bus to Montserrat Monastery, a spiritual retreat nestled on a mountain near Barcelona.
- With a tour leader by your side, enjoy hassle-free transfers. Sit back, ask about the Monastery, and get personalized recommendations.
- Bask in the golden rays of sunrise as stunning views unfold, leaving you with cherished memories and plenty of Instagrammable moments!
- Hike the trail, admire the Basilica's lavish interiors, or sip liquor made by monks—create your own adventure, made of things that warm your heart.
Inclusions
- AC coach transfers from Barcelona
- English-speaking guide for transfers
Exclusions
- Entry to Montserrat Monastery
- Guided tour of Montserrat Monastery
- Tip: Keep your camera ready. The picturesque drive up to the Monastery is filled with photo opportunities.
- The majority of the Monastery complex is accessible to wheelchair users.
- Strict dress code: It is mandatory to cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Flipflops aren't allowed.
- Mass at the Basilica takes place Monday to Saturday at 11am and 9.30am on all holidays including Sundays.
- The Escolania de Montserrat boys sing at the basilica daily between Monday to Friday at 1pm and during Sunday Mass at 11am.
- Choir performance times may vary in accordance with special religious celebrations and the school calendar.
- You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Top things to do in Barcelona
Why take a Barcelona to Montserrat Monastery Day Trip?
Transportation included
The best part? Montserrat Monastery is super close to Barcelona, like an easy day trip distance. You can travel there by train, funicular, or even cable car, or if you opt for a day trip, transportation is taken care of. So you can spend the morning exploring the bustling city and then chill on a mountaintop monastery by the afternoon!
Offbeat things to do in Montserrat
Explore Limestone Caves
Visit the Coves del Salnitre, an impressive limestone cave system near Collbató. This site features fascinating geological formations and archaeological significance, as neolithic tools have been discovered here. Guided tours are required, and reservations should be made in advance. The caves are open from Wednesday to Sunday.
Rock climbing
For adventure seekers, Montserrat is renowned for its rock climbing opportunities. The unique geological features of the mountains, particularly around Sant Jeroni, provide excellent routes for both beginners and experts. Guided climbing tours are available for those looking to explore this thrilling activity safely.
Wine tasting tours
Combine your visit to Montserrat with a wine-tasting tour at nearby family-owned vineyards. This experience often includes a walking tour of a boutique winery and a meal at a local restaurant, allowing you to enjoy the region's culinary delights while supporting local agritourism.
Helicopter & hot air balloon rides
For an unforgettable perspective of Montserrat, consider taking a helicopter or hot air balloon ride. These options provide breathtaking aerial views of attractions like Sant Jeroni and Montserrat museum, as well as the unique landscape, and are a thrilling way to experience the area.
Farmer's market
Experience local culture by visiting a farmers market in Montserrat, where you can find fresh produce, cheeses, and honey from local farmers. This is a great way to taste the region's offerings and support the community.
Off the beaten path
While many tourists hike popular trails, consider venturing onto lesser-known paths. Guided hikes can take you through beautiful landscapes, allowing you to learn about the local flora and fauna while avoiding the crowds
Your Barcelona to Montserrat day trip options explained
Tour
Duration
Access to Black Madonna
Audio Guide+Languages
Museum Entry
Food Inclusions
Attractions Included
Transfers
Price
Montserrat Monastery Experience Tickets with Audio Guide
Flexible
✓
Multiple Languages (Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, Japanese)
✓
X
Monastery, Museum
X (Optional Purchase)
Montserrat Monastery Experience Tickets with Train Tickets
Flexible
✓
Multiple Languages (Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, Japanese)
✓
X
Monastery, Audiovisual Space
✓ (Train)
Montserrat Monastery Guided Tour with Bus Transfers
5 hr.
✓
English, Spanish
✓ (Basilica)
Optional Culinary Tasting
Monastery, Basilica, Culinary Tasting
✓ (Bus)
Montserrat Monastery Guided Tour with Transfers and Cog-Wheel Train
4 hr. 30 min. - 5 hr. 30 min.
✓
Multiple Languages (Catalan, Spanish, English, French, German, Dutch, Russian, Japanese)
✓ (Basilica)
X
Monastery, Basilica, Liquor Tasting, Audiovisual Space
✓ (Bus, Cogwheel Train)
Montserrat Guided Tour with Optional Lunch
8 hr.
✓
English
✓ (Basilica)
Lunch/Tapas Brunch with Wine (Optional)
Monastery, Basilica, Lunch/Tapas Brunch with Wine
✓ (Bus)
Montserrat Monastery Guided Tour with Farmhouse Lunch
7 hr. 30 min.
✓
English, Spanish
✓ (Monastery)
3-Course Farm-to-table Lunch, Petting Farm
Monastery, Farm-to-table Lunch, Petting Farm
✓ (Bus)
Barcelona to Montserrat Day Trip map
How to get to Montserrat from Barcelona?
Train and Funicular (Cremallera)
- Who’s this for: This is the most popular and convenient option, offering a scenic journey with good travel times.
- Take the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) R5 line from Barcelona's Plaça Espanya station to Monistrol de Montserrat (around 1 hour). Here, transfer to the Cremallera cremallera train, a rack railway that takes you up the mountain to the monastery (20 minutes).
Train and Cable Car (Aeri)
- Who’s this for: Great choice for those who want a more exciting ascent with scenic views. Fear of heights? Um, maybe, sit out of this?
- Similar to option 1, take the R5 line to Barcelona's Plaça Espanya station to Aeri de Montserrat (around 1 hour). Here, transfer to the Aeri cable car, which whisks you up the mountain to the top (5 minutes).
Bus
- Who’s this for: This is a budget-friendly option, but it's also the slowest and requires transfers.
- Take the Barcelona Metro to Espanya station. From there, catch the Montserrat bus, line eTour Montserrat. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours.
Car
- Who’s this for: If you prefer flexibility and control over your journey, driving to Montserrat is an option.
- Take the A-2 or AP-7 motorways, exiting at Martorell and following the C-55 to Montserrat. The drive takes about an hour.
Hiking
- Who’s this for: Active travellers seeking a budget-friendly adventure with stunning scenery.
- Take the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) R5 line from Barcelona's Plaça Espanya station to Monistrol de Montserrat (around 1 hour). Once there, explore the town and follow marked trails leading up the mountain towards the monastery. The hike takes approximately 1.5 hours and offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Take a tour that includes your transportation to Montserrat
- You can also visit Montserrat on a day trip from Barcelona by tour. This takes out the hassle of arranging your transportation and you can visit the monastery with an experienced guide. Some tours also include Farmhouse Lunch.
- Choose the one best suited for your needs!
Not satisfied with the options? Click here for more transportation options from Barcelona to Montserrat to ensure a hassle-free journey!
Montserrat Monastery explained
How to enter
Entering the Montserrat Monastery can be a bit tricky. Entry to the basilica and the famous Black Madonna statue is often timed, with limited tickets available. However, if you book a guided tour, you'll bypass the lines and get direct access to the monastery, ensuring a smooth and efficient visit.
How long to spend
Well, you'll need at least half a day. The travel time alone is about 3 hours (1.5 hours each way), and you should budget at least an hour for your visit to the Montserrat Monastery. If you want to explore a bit more around the area and walk to St. Michael's Cross, add another half hour to an hour to your trip.
And if you're thinking of taking one of the funiculars and doing more hiking, plan for a full day for your visit.
Detailed breakdown of how to spend your time visiting Montserrat Monastery!Best time to take a Barcelona to Montserrat day trip
Weather and climate
Spring and fall provide the best climate for exploring Montserrat comfortably, with mild temperatures and clear skies.
Read more
Sights covered on Barcelona to Montserrat Day Trip
Explore the Abbey, Basilica, and Museum
The main attraction at Montserrat is the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. It's still an active monastery with about 80 Benedictine monks. While you won't be able to see all areas due to it being active, you can check out the basilica and the museum. The basilica houses the famous statue of the Virgin of Montserrat, and the museum showcases over 1300 pieces of art by famous painters like Dali, Monet, and Picasso.
How to get around Montserrat
Public transport
Train: The most popular way to reach Montserrat from Barcelona is by train. You can take the R5 line from Plaça Espanya to either Aeri de Montserrat or Monistrol de Montserrat. The journey takes about 1 hour and costs approximately €6.15 one way.
Cable Car/Rack Railway: From Aeri de Montserrat, you can take a cable car to the monastery, which costs about €8.95 one way. Alternatively, from Monistrol de Montserrat, you can take the Cremallera (rack railway) to the monastery, which costs around €12 round trip.
Taxi and ride-sharing
- Taxis: You can hire a taxi from Barcelona to Montserrat, which is the most direct but also the most expensive option. The ride takes about 1 hour.
- Ride-Sharing: Services like Uber may be available, providing another option for direct travel to Montserrat.
Other means
Biking
- While biking is an option, the mountainous terrain makes it more suited for experienced cyclists. There are trails around Montserrat, but biking directly from Barcelona is not common due to the distance and elevation.
Walking and hiking
- For the adventurous, hiking from Monistrol de Montserrat to the monastery is possible and offers beautiful views. This hike takes about 1.5 hours and is a rewarding way to arrive at the monastery.
Funiculars
- Once at the monastery, you can use the Sant Joan and Santa Cova funiculars to explore higher areas of Montserrat. These funiculars provide access to stunning viewpoints and hiking trails, although they require separate tickets that can be purchased on-site.
Need a little help planning your visit? Here’s an itinerary for you!
Morning-Mid morning
Afternoon
Evening
- Morning: Take the FGC train from Plaça Espanya in Barcelona to Montserrat. The journey takes about an hour. You can also take the cremallera, a rack railway, which is a more scenic option but takes a little longer.
- Mid-morning: Once you arrive at Montserrat, you'll be greeted by stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Visit Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. The Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey is the highlight of any trip to Montserrat. The abbey is home to the Black Madonna, a statue of the Virgin Mary that is said to have miraculous powers. You can also visit the basilica, the cloisters, and the museum.
- Tip: Be sure to dress modestly when visiting the abbey. Shoulders and knees should be covered.
After lunch, you have a few options. You can take a hike to the top of Sant Joan Peak for even more incredible views. Have lunch at one of the restaurants in Montserrat. There are a variety of restaurants to choose from, serving both traditional Catalan cuisine and international fare.
- Nearby restaurants: Restaurant Abat Cisneros, Montserrat Buffet, La Barca Restaurant
Explore the Montserrat Museum. The Montserrat Museum is home to a collection of religious art, including paintings, sculptures, and goldwork. There are also exhibits on the history of Montserrat and the surrounding area. - Hike or take a cable car to the top of the mountain. There are a number of hiking trails that lead to the top of Montserrat. The views from the top are even more spectacular than the views from the monastery. If you're not up for a hike, you can take the cable car or the funicular railway to the top.
You can either conclude your trip here or explore further.
- Attend the Montserrat Boys' Choir performance. The Montserrat Boys' Choir is one of the oldest boys' choirs in Europe. They sing every afternoon (Mon-Fri) at the basilica.
- Do some souvenir shopping. There are a number of shops in Montserrat where you can buy souvenirs, such as religious items, food products, and handicrafts. Some shop options near Montserrat monastery are: La Botiga, De Moi à Toi - Online.
- Depart from Montserrat and return to Barcelona. The train ride back to Barcelona takes about an hour.
Frequently asked questions about Barcelona to Montserrat Day Trip
What types of Barcelona to Montserrat day trips are available?
There are several types of day trips available to Montserrat from Barcelona based on your preference. If you’re an independent traveller, you can explore at your own pace with a skip-the-line ticket. There are numerous guided tours available for you to choose from- some tours have transportation available, while there are others with lunch inclusions and more. Choose the one according to your preferences.
How do I choose the right Barcelona to Montserrat day trip for me?
If this is your first time visiting Montserrat with your family, a guided tour will save you time and stress over things like getting around and finding places for meals. You can discover more with the help of your guide! These tours offer bus, train, or cogwheel transportation facilities (to and from Montserrat), and you don’t even have to worry about finding a restaurant nearby as you can choose a tour with an optional lunch. If you like to fly solo, however, choose an entry ticket with the added convenience of skip-the-line access and a multilingual audio guide. Catch the R5 train from Plaça Espanya to Montserrat-Aeri for the cable car or Monistrol de Montserrat for the cremallera (rack railway).
How do I get there?
The train is definitely the easiest and most common way to get to Montserrat from Barcelona. While there are bus tours, they can take longer because they typically make stops to pick up passengers at other hotels. The train is a direct shot from Barcelona to Montserrat, and the journey itself is pretty scenic. You'll catch the train from the España station in Barcelona (The ride takes about an hour). It's conveniently located right on the metro line, so easy to get to from anywhere in the city center. Once you arrive at the mountain base, you can either take a cable car or a cremallera (rack railway) up to the top.
Is there a big difference between the cable car and the cremallera (rack railway)?
For the Rack Train ride, you will need to get off one stop after Aeri de Montserrat (Cable car) called Monistrol. The Rack Train ride will take 15 minutes to the Monastery and is a more comfortable ride than the cable car. However, you won't have as good views as you would from the cable car, which covers the 1,350-metre journey comfortably within 5 minutes). Note: The cable car is not ideal for wheelchairs due to potential steps at arrival stations.
How long does the whole Barcelona to Montserrat day trip take?
A Montserrat day trip from Barcelona takes a good part of the day, with travel time taking about 1.5 hours one way (roughly one hour for the train and 30 minutes for the rack railway). Once in Montserrat, you can visit the main sites and viewpoints in just a few hours, approximately 3-4. Expect to spend more time here if you want to hike the trails and/or sit down for lunch or dinner.
Is the day trip manageable with young kids?
A day trip to Montserrat from Barcelona is totally doable with young kids. The train ride from Barcelona to Montserrat takes about an hour, and then you can either take a cable car or a cremallera (rack railway) up the mountain. The cable car ride is especially exciting for kids. However, there can be really long queues for the cable car, which might take away a lot of time from your itinerary. Thankfully you can also drive and park relatively close to the monastery (right next to Aeri de Montserrat station. You can park your car there for free).
What's there to do besides the monastery?
Besides the monastery, there's a bunch of cool stuff you can do on a Montserrat day trip from Barcelona. Montserrat is a hiker's paradise with trails for all levels. The highest peak is Sant Jeroni, which takes about 2-3 hours to reach. On clear days, you can see most of Catalonia and even spot Mallorca island, but the view of the monastery isn't as great as from St. Michael's cross. You can also visit the Montserrat Museum which houses a collection of Catalan art, including works by El Greco and Picasso.
What should I wear on my day trip to Montserrat?
Comfortable clothing is the way to go here. Having said that, no trip to Montserrat is complete without a visit to the monastery. There is a dress code in place- Shirts or blouses should cover your shoulders. Sleeveless shirts are acceptable as long as the neckline isn’t too deep. Shorts and skirts should at least reach mid-thigh. Avoid ripped jeans or anything too revealing (showing too much skin).
How can I see the Black Madonna on the Barcelona to Montserrat day trip?
To reach Montserrat monastery, take the FGC train from Plaza España station or drive on the A2 highway towards Lleida, following the signs. Free parking is available near the monastery. Inside, the Black Madonna is enshrined on a gold altar in the chapel. Expect two lines: one for the basilica and a longer one for close access to the Black Madonna for wish-making. Choose wisely, as the Black Madonna line can be lengthy. Alternatively, you can admire the statue from afar at the base of the stairs. You can also view the Black Madonna from a distance at the bottom of the stairs leading up to the statue.