Day Trips From Barcelona- Coastal Edition

Some of the most memorable places we visited during our time in Barcelona weren’t actually in the city.

While staying with friends, the idea of venturing a little farther out slowly started to form. We didn’t have much of a plan, and truthfully, we didn’t know what to expect — but we’re so glad we said yes to the unexpected.

These two day trips gave us a completely different side of Catalonia: coastal towns, slower rhythms, warm sunshine, and moments we’ll always remember.

Sitges

A charming seaside town just outside the city

We took the train from Barcelona to Sitges, and honestly, I’m so glad we arrived without expectations — because it exceeded anything we could have imagined.

Sitges is a coastal town in the Catalonia region of Spain, southwest of Barcelona, and it’s both breathtaking and incredibly charming.

The first order of business? A bakery stop. Sandwiches, baked goods, and coffee.

After that, we began walking toward the water, with old buildings flanking us on both sides, narrow streets above, and cobblestone paths beneath our feet.

Along the way, we passed through one of the smallest and narrowest streets in the area — absolutely adorable. Our favorite part was that from one end, you could see the ocean waiting for you on the other side.

Sitges truly has so much to offer: quiet streets surrounded by beautiful architecture, open ocean with crystal-clear teal waters, delicious snacks, and a beach that completely takes your breath away. The sunshine warming your skin, the water cooling you the moment your feet touch it.

Sitges gave us a day full of beauty, love, friendship, delicious bites, and fun — and we will always be grateful for it.

Getting to Sitges from Barcelona

• Train: ~40 minutes
  
  

• Why it’s perfect: Easy, affordable, walkable once you arrive
  
  

• Best for: Relaxed beach day, wandering, food stops, slow travel

Tossa de Mar

A medieval coastal town straight out of a storybook

A place that feels like a fairy tale — or straight out of Game of Thrones.

The medieval walls and coastal location give you the feeling of stepping into another time, almost like you’re walking through one of the show’s seasons. The cobblestone streets and fortress rising above this incredible town make it a place absolutely worth exploring.

Tossa de Mar is walkable and perfect for travel photography. The restaurants, bakeries, ice cream shops, coffee spots, and little boutiques turn this town into an enchanted paradise. The beach and open ocean can be admired from the top of the fortress or right at the edge of town, where cliffs flank both sides and create a natural barrier.

During the summer, this place feels like pure paradise and makes for a worthwhile day trip from Barcelona.

We had a wonderful time walking every little corner, chasing the sun, and tasting small bites along the way.

Getting to Tossa de Mar from Barcelona

• Drive: ~1h 15m
  
  

• Bus: ~$17 one way, ~1h 20m
  
  

• Train: ~$10 one way, ~55m

Things to Know Before You Go

• Bring your own beach gear if you plan to spend time by the water
  
  

• Comfortable walking shoes are a must — cobblestones and uphill streets
  
  

• Food can be a bit pricey if you’re not bringing snacks or lunch
  
  

• Summer gets hot — carry water, wear a hat, and bring sunglasses

Why We Loved These Day Trips

Both Sitges and Tossa de Mar reminded us why we love traveling the way we do — without rigid plans, open to what unfolds, and willing to say yes to places we didn’t expect.

If you’re visiting Barcelona and have the time, stepping outside the city — even just for a day — can completely change the way you experience the region.

Sometimes, the best moments happen just beyond the itinerary.

Gallery

More pictures from this amazing day trip adventure