Barcelona in a Day

Barcelona city tour

Barcelona continually tops Europe's city break charts – it's a buzzing metropolis with enough wow-factor sights to bowl any visitor over. Discover Poble Espanyol, Sagrada Familia, Las Ramblas, Plaça Espanya and Montjuïc hill. Martina, one of our expert local guides, says ‘Originally built for an exhibition almost 100 years ago, Poble Espanyol is a ‘village' which is home to 117 replicas of some of Spain's most celebrated architectural gems. The onsite fine art museum has works by Picasso, Dalí and Miro on display, and lots of local artisans make and sell their handicrafts here.'After a look around Poble Espanyol, the next stop offers the chance to see the striking exterior of the Sagrada Familia, a church resembling a wave-worn sandcastle – the most famous legacy of legendary local architect Antoni Gaudi. Martina adds, ‘Construction began on the Sagrada Familia way back in 1882. The current estimated completion date is 2026 – meaning that the building will be completed 100 years after Gaudí died. I think he would be proud to see how well his ideas have been realised.'You'll then have plenty of free time to explore Barcelona under your own steam. Maybe take a stroll along the pedestrianised Las Ramblas and visit La Boqueria indoor market where you could opt to try some of the tasty treats on offer. A panoramic drive through Plaça Espanya and over Montjuïc Mountain, with its bird's-eye views of the city and waterfront, round off the day before heading back to base.

Monastery of Montserrat Skip-the-Line Guided Tour

As the spiritual heart of Catalonia, Montserrat is one of Europe's top pilgrimage sites. This famous Benedictine abbey occupies a striking location at the foot of towering rock formations in the Montserrat mountain range near Barcelona, Spain. You'll have the chance to visit the Vestry and see the statue of La Moreneta. Hugo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Thought to have been carved in Jerusalem in the early years of Christianity, the famous ‘Moreneta' or Black Madonna is a sacred wooden statue of the Virgin Mary and the infant Jesus. The Black Madonna is one of the most important pilgrimage sites in Spain.'Firstly, a train will take you more than 700 metres up to Spain's largest Benedictine monastery. You'll enjoy exclusive access to the beautifully decorated vestry and skip the line to see the statue of La Moreneta. The monastery complex consists of several buildings, including the basilica, the sacristy, the choir stalls, the library, and the museum. The basilica was built in the 19th century and it's a prime example of neo-Gothic architecture. The monastery is also served by a renowned boys' choir, the Escolania de Montserrat, which dates back to the 14th century, making it one of the oldest in Europe.As you look around, you can sample the herb liqueur made by the monks and watch the brand new, interactive audio-visual presentation on Montserrat's history. And don't miss the chance to buy tickets for the funicular to the summit – the views of the Llobregat valley from the top are phenomenal.

Rural Catalonia bike and wine tour

An exclusive cycling tour in the heart of the Catalan countryside, this half-day bike route takes you through the wine-producing region of Montsant. And after pedalling your way through some spectacular scenery, you're rewarded with a tasting of local vino at a family-run winery.

Costa Dorada Catamaran Cruise

It is the golden-sand beaches of the Costa Dorada that give it its name of the golden coast – and the coast's vivid beauty is best appreciated from at sea. Drink in the views from a different perspective whilst fully relaxing aboard a catamaran on this afternoon of maritime indulgence.

Bonavista Market shopping tour

Sunday mornings near Salou were made for strolling around the local market and soaking up all the sights, smells and life around the busy stalls. This morning excursion takes you to the largest market in the Costa Dorada where rows of stalls are piled high with everything you could imagine.

Half-day Trip to Tarragona

Tarragona is dripping in history, yet you'll find a place that's buzzing with eateries and a great vibe. This half-day trip gives you the lowdown on the city's history and sights with a trolley train tour, then free time to weave your way around the alleys crammed within the ancient walls.

Barcelona Aquarium

Barcelona Aquarium is considered the most important marine life visitor attraction on the Mediterranean. On this ticket-only excursion you'll get to witness its hundreds of species in their natural habitat, and enjoy all the amazing interactive features at your own leisure.

Cambrils-Salou - Salou-Cambrils mini cruise

With its lure of Blue Flag beaches and old-world charm, the fishing village of Cambrils is a worthy day trip from Salou. But instead of the hassle of catching public transport, you'll have a return ticket on the boat that'll get you there and back in a breeze.Step aboard the boat in Salou and venture south along the Costa Dorada towards Cambrils, getting there the most relaxed way possible. There are multiple departures throughout the day so you can arrive for your mid-morning coffee on a pavement-side café, or in time for lunch and an afternoon stroll.Enjoy getting lost among the cobbled lanes, pick your favourite eatery for a delicious seafood meal and walk it off along the promenade. There are lots of Blue Flag beaches to take your pick from, too, or time it right for the local market to select some goodies for home. You can also choose your ticket to depart from Cambrils to head to Salou for the day – the choice is yours.

Costa Dorada Catamaran Cruise with BBQ

The first-class beaches of the Costa Dorada have given it the nickname the 'golden coast'. The picture-postcard beauty here is no better appreciated than from the sea, and you can drink in those views whilst relaxing aboard a sleek catamaran. This afternoon of maritime indulgence gets underway as your super-comfortable catamaran sailboat pushes out to sea. Gliding through the waves you'll bask on the netted deck, topping up your tan in style. As things heat up we'll drop anchor at a secluded cove where a dip in the Med and some snorkelling really cool things down. Back on board, a barbecue lunch is washed down with beer, wine and soft drinks all included. Setting sail back towards port, you'll still have time to catch some rays out on deck as your day draws to a close.

4x4 Tours Salou

The golden sands of the Costa Dorada's beautiful beaches are what give the coast its name – but there is so much more of the region to be explored than just the beaches. This full day 4x4 safari is an exciting way to enjoy the stunning, less travelled part of the region.