Barcelona Full Day Private Highlights Skip the Line Tour

HIGHLIGHTS:

• No Cancellations
  
• Guided visit of inside Sagrada Familia - SKIP THE QUEUES!
• Panoramic view of Barcelona from Montjüic hill
• Drive through the Eixample, Barcelona's modernist centre
• Drive up Passeig de Gracia - Barcelona's luxury shopping area
• Walking tour of Barcelona's Gothic quarter
• Visit the Santa Maria del Mar
  
• Visit of Gaudí's Park Güell
  
• Visit to Gaudí's famous La Pedrera - SKIP THE QUEUES!

Our Barcelona Highlights Full Day tour offers a comprehensive view of the city. We visit all of the most iconic sights the city has to offer as well as introducing some of Barcelona's best-kept secrets.

We start our tour with a drive to the famous hill of Montjüic, which offers excellent views over the city and was the site of the 1992 Olympic games.

After a brief stop at the Catalunya National Art Museum (MNAC) we will make our way down to Plaça Espanya and on past the Modernist buildings of the Eixample area.

Our drive to the iconic Sagrada Famlia will take us up Passeig de Gracia, home to the famous designer stores, and the setting for two of Barcelona's most talked about Gaudï buildings: La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.

Before arriving at the Sagrda Família, we will stop at the Hospital de Sant pau I de Santes Creus, built between 1901 and 1930. Well away from the tourist route, this hospital has been declared a 'UNESCO World Heritage Site' and is one of the greatest symbols of the Modernist Architecture in Barcelona.

Finally, we will arrive at Sagrada Família, stopping there for a visit inside the building. Our 'Skip the Line' policy means entrance tickets will have been pre-purchased and there will no NO QUEUES! For many, this is the highlight of their Barcelona experience.

The group will then head to the oldest part of Barcelona, the Barrio Gótico, which, as late, the mid 19th century was still surrounded by the Mediaeval walls.

At this point, we will leave the bus and enjoy a stroll through the narrow winding streets of mediaeval Barcelona.

At the start of our short walk through the historic streets of Barcelona, we will stop for brief tour of one of Barcelona's most traditional indoor food markets: Mercat de Santa Caterina.

From there, we will travel back in time, going from the Roman era through to the early Middle Ages, when the Catalan counts were controlling the Mediterranean sea and Barcelona was the capital of an empire.

During this part of the tour, we will also visit the Jewish Quarter, the Royal palace, the original 2000 year old Roman Temple and part of the Cathedral.

The final part of the tour takes in part of the Born district, where the guide will point out a variety of restaurants and tapas bars suitable for lunch before ending the tour in the magnificent Santa Maria del Mar church - one of the most beautiful in Barcelona.

The guide will be more than happy to make some recommendations for lunch or dinner in the area, or for further sightseeing or shopping trips.

After a quick lunch, we head straight to Park Güell, the famous city garden designed by Anton Gaudí. The guide will lead the group down through the park explaining the garden concept and introducing you to some of Gaudí's most bizarre creations.

From the Park we head straight to one of the most famous Gaudíbuildings of them all: La Pedrera. We will have an hour here to visit inside the building. Our 'Skip the Line' policy means that there is no waiting in queues! The tour ends here at around 4pm.

Pyrenees Mountains Small Group Day Tour from Barcelona

Highlights:

• Full-day small group tour by minivan to the Pyrenees
• Visiting the historic town of Vic and its cathedral and market square
• Personalized small group and commentary
  
• Riding the rack railway from Queralbs to a stunning mountain valley
• Hiking, horse riding, boating and other activities
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Transport by comfortable air-conditioned minivan

The only day tour from Barcelona that takes groups into the Pyrenees mountains.

This is a wonderful chance to step foot in the spectacular Pyrenees mountains and take the mountain train up to nearly 2,000 metres (6,000 feet).

First port of call is the beautifully maintained mediaeval town famous of Vic. It's well know for it's bustling market, old quarter, and traditional way of life. 

Before lunch, we head up into the Pyrenees, first stopping at the stone-built village of Queralbs, from where we catch the rack railway high into the mountains.

Full tour description:

This is a perfect tour for anybody wanting to truly escape the city and immerse themselves in nature. Not to mention that you'll also be visiting one of the world's most famous mountain ranges.

We leave Barcelona at 8:30am from our city centre office opposite the famous Palau de la Musica moument. Very quickly, we leave the city behind us as we head north.

Our final destination may be the mountains, but on all of our day tours we try to include as much variety as possible. Just an hour from Barcelona, and half way to the Pyrenees, we stop for a short break in the ancient town of Vic.

In keeping with our philosophy of giving you as much time as possible to explore on your own, we head first for the Market Square where we will give you an introduction to the town and suggestions of what to see.

You'll have plenty of time to stroll around the town centre taking in the cathedral (a mixture of styles ranging from Romanesque to neo-classical), and some magnificent renaissance and baroque buildings; or to simply relax while having breakfast in the heart of the town: a beautiful arched square (one of the biggest in the country) where the market and other major events are held. 

Our visits to Vic coincides with traditional market days, something which has been taking place every week for over a thousand years!

From Vic, we continue up to the Pyrenees. Before we board the train, we will briefly visit Queralbs, which, at an altitude of 1,236 metres, is the last vehicle-accessible village on the way up to our mountain valley destination.

This tiny mountain village has a population of only 200 permanent residents living in a rambling collection of traditionally built stone houses. Perched on the side of the mountain, this impossibly quaint, picture postcard beautiful hamlet is one of the most memorable parts of the day.

Here, you will also be able to see the Church of Sant Sadurní de Fustanyá, built from stones so perfectly-hewn that legend says it was built by the fairies and witches said to inhabit the surrounding caves.

From Queralbs, we take the last 6km of the impressive rack railway up to an altitude of 1,964 metres and into the stunning mountain valley of Vall de Núria. Thanks to the mountain railway, you’ll be able to get high into the mountains with no effort at all.  

If you love hiking, then ask the guide to show you some routes, there's something for everyone - from the hard and strenuous to light and easy. You'll have plenty of time to hike well away from the valley and truly experience the solitude of the mountains.

In the valley you’ll also find the sanctuary, originally built to house pilgrims to the valley, and which takes its name from the Virgin de Núria. Her image, buried in the earth, was reputedly unearthed by a very persistent ox! 

In the valley, you can enjoy the unspoiled scenery, sharing it with unusual birds and animals ranging from Gryphon vultures to chamois, and golden eagles to marmots, and take one of the many different walks, of varying levels of difficulty, or you can try horse riding, open air bowling, archery lessons, crazy golf, or boating on the lake. If that seems too energetic, another option is to enjoy some of the traditional Catalan dishes available in the valley’s restaurants.

From Queralbs, the return to Barcelona begins, arriving there at 7:30pm.

Roman Tarragona & Cosmopolitan Sitges Small Group Day Tour from Barcelona

Highlights:

• Private tour by minivan to Tarragona and Sitges
• Explore the Roman past at Tarragona's aqueduct, forum and circus
• Seaside views at tranquil Roc de Sant Gaieta
• Cosmopolitan Sitges' beaches, cafes and boutiques
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Illuminating commentary from your expert guide
• Transport by comfortable air-conditioned minivan
• Personalized small group and commentary

Mix ancient Roman Tarragona with the cosmopolitan seaside town of Sitges.

Travel back in time and retrace the footsteps of Roman gladiators. Stand on the very spot where chariots raced by, walk across the magnificent Roman aqueduct, and stroll around the ‘Old Quarter’ with its stunning cathedral. 

Then visit Roc de Sant Gaieta, a tiny Mediterranean village with its mix of Ibizan fishermen’s houses, Seville-style patios, and Roman-Greco influence. 

Finally, you travel to Sitges to discover the Mediterranean atmosphere of this old fisherman’s village with its shady streets, traditional houses, beaches, bars and restaurants.

 

Full tour description:

The tour leaves from our city centre office opposite the famous Palau de la Musica monument at 8:30am. However, on this private tour, we also offer hotel pick up and drop off. 

Leaving Barcelona, we head south past Tarragona to our first stop of the day, the breathtaking 2,000 year old Roman aqueduct, known locally as ‘El Pont del Diable’ (The Devil’s Bridge). This perfectly preserved piece of ancient Roman history is hardly ever visited by tourists, but often leaves more of an impression on our visitors than any of our other tours.

Over 200 metres long and nearly 30 metres high, it is one of the hidden jewels of the area. This is a rare chance to get completely off the beaten track and visit one of the most amazing architectural wonders of Catalunya - and one that hardly anybody knows about.

From the aqueduct we travel back to Tarragona, the ancient Roman capital of the Iberian Peninsula, quietly entering the old part of the city through a narrow gateway in the old Roman walls.

Starting at the Archaeological Walkway, you will be able to admire the surviving stone walls, wander through the historic old quarter - passing the medieval hospital - before stopping at the cathedral where you can enjoy the Sunday morning antique market.

Few tourists ever make it to Tarragona, and fewer still stumble across this traditional market. It’s a great chance to pick up something truly unique from the area. For others, there is ample time to explore the beautiful cathedral that looks down on the antique collectors.

From there, you continue down through the old town to discover the Roman Forum and the nearby Roman Circus hidden amidst the urban design. Walk along the underground passageways that held the Circus’ stands and come to one of the most popular squares within the old town: Plaça de la Font, situated inside the Roman Circus. 

If you stand very still and close your eyes, you can almost hear the chariots racing by. On this very spot, thousands of years ago on, perhaps on the very same day of the week, the Roman capital of the Iberian Peninsula came alive in all of its bloody glory.

And last, but certainly not least, enjoy the breathtaking sea-view over the Roman amphitheatre and imagine gladiators battling each other to the death! It’s a poignant moment to stand on the same dusty ground that bore witness to countless scenes of sacrifice and passion. 

If you enjoy visiting old mediaeval towns, then you might also be interested in our Girona & Costa Brava Day Tour and thePyrenees Mountain Day Tour, both of which visit two of the best 'old' towns in the region.

At 12:30pm we leave Tarragona for Sitges. On route, we stop briefly at Roc de Sant Gaieta, an intimate little village built on the rocky shoreline. Stroll between its tiny white houses and let your imagination take you away to Ibiza fishing villages built with a touch of Roman-Greco flair. 

We arrive in Sitges at 2:00pm, in perfect time for lunch. This once quiet fishing village today boasts a long and sandy beach, groovy boutiques, and a handful of interesting sights. Sitges has been fashionable since the 1890s, when it became an avant-garde art-world hang-out. Get lost in its shady side streets and enjoy the Mediterranean atmosphere with its old whitewashed fisherman’s houses. After a leisurely lunch you might want to head off to one of the seventeen beaches the town has to offer.

We meet again at 6pm and return to Barcelona for around 7pm.

Montserrat & Cava Winery Small Group Day Tour

Highlights

• Full-day small group tour by minivan to Montserrat and Codorniu winery (please note that the winery may be changed during weekends or bank holidays)
• Personalized small group and commentary
• Free time to explore Montserrat Monastery's basilica and scenic parklands
• Tour of Freixenet winery's vast cellars and wine tasting
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Illuminating commentary from your expert guide
• Transport by comfortable air-conditioned minivan

Tour Summary -

Capture the heart of Catalunya on this day tour to the iconic Montserrat and it's Royal Basilica and enjoy some sparkle in the rural cava cellars of world famous cava producer, Codorniu.

The day starts with a morning visit to Montserrat where you’ll explore the monastic centre of Catalonia, home to the famous black virgin & la Escolania (children’s boy choir). You’ll also have time to explore the magnificent natural park & mountains with spectacular views over the plains of Catalonia.

After lunch, you’ll be transported through the back roads to the wine country, where you’ll visit the renowned local winery, Codorniu for a tour in their vast underground cellars followed by a tasting of the famous Cava 'champagne'.

Full Tour Description

A day tour from Barcelona to Montserrat is a must for the majority of visitors to Barcelona. It's probably the one place that they have heard all about before they arrive.

The advantage of taking one of our small group day tours from Barcelona is that we can avoid the crowds and stay well clear of the other larger tour operators.

Our day starts at 8.30am from our office opposite the Palau de la Musica building. From here, the journey to Montserrat takes us about an hour or so. However, as this is a private your, we also arrange hotel pick up and drop off.

One of the main reasons people book with us is that they want the intimacy of a small group, but like to have somebody there to explain things.

Keeping to our philosophy of giving you plenty of free time to explore on your own, but guiding you in the right direction, the first thing we do on arrival is explain the various options.

A visit to the sanctuary where the ‘Moreneta’ is housed is a must. The sanctuary has been in use for almost 1000 years for those pilgrims and other visitors who have climbed this spectacular mountain.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the fascinating Museum of Montserrat, with its five collections, ranging from Archaeology from the Biblical East to Modern Painting and Sculpture. 

A highlight of visiting Montserrat is listening to one of Europe’s oldest children’s choirs, La Escolania de Montserrat. They usually sing at 1pm on weekdays and noon at the weekend.

Besides these cultural possibilities, there are numerous walks around Montserrat, ranging from easy strolls to serious hikes. Each trail offers a different perspective on the stunning views over the surrounding landscape, many of which are peppered with small chapels and hermitages.

You'll easily find a route to suit your taste and energy levels. But whether they're fairly strenuous treks or gentle walks, they all give you fantastic views to marvel at the unspoiled beauty of this protected natural park. 

If you'd rather not walk at all, then another option is to take one of the two rack railways, or the cable car, offering yet more views of the area. 

After a morning in Montserrat, we leave the mountain at around 2:30pm, heading for Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, home to the famous Cava champagne and, in particularly, home to Codorniu where we'll visit their vast underground wine cellars.

Sant Sadurní d’Anoia is situated in the Penedès wine-growing region, which boasts one of the widest varieties of grape of any wine-growing region in the world. 

The tour at Codorniu is a great chance to see exactly how the famous sparkling wine is produced, from the first pressing of the grapes to the second fermentation in the vast expanse of cellars. 

Of course, no winery visit would be complete without a taste of the stuff! At the den of the tour you'll get the chance to try some of the best Cava the region produces.

We leave the winery at around 5:30pm, returning to Barcelona for around 6:30pm.

Montserrat & Cava Winery Small Group Day Tour

Highlights

• Full-day small group tour by minivan to Montserrat and Codorniu winery (please note that the winery may be changed during weekends or bank holidays)
• Personalized small group and commentary
• Free time to explore Montserrat Monastery's basilica and scenic parklands
• Tour of Freixenet winery's vast cellars and wine tasting
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Illuminating commentary from your expert guide
• Transport by comfortable air-conditioned minivan

Tour Summary -

Capture the heart of Catalunya on this day tour to the iconic Montserrat and it's Royal Basilica and enjoy some sparkle in the rural cava cellars of world famous cava producer, Codorniu.

The day starts with a morning visit to Montserrat where you’ll explore the monastic centre of Catalonia, home to the famous black virgin & la Escolania (children’s boy choir). You’ll also have time to explore the magnificent natural park & mountains with spectacular views over the plains of Catalonia.

After lunch, you’ll be transported through the back roads to the wine country, where you’ll visit the renowned local winery, Codorniu for a tour in their vast underground cellars followed by a tasting of the famous Cava 'champagne'.

Full Tour Description

A day tour from Barcelona to Montserrat is a must for the majority of visitors to Barcelona. It's probably the one place that they have heard all about before they arrive.

The advantage of taking one of our small group day tours from Barcelona is that we can avoid the crowds and stay well clear of the other larger tour operators.

Our day starts at 8.30am from our office opposite the Palau de la Musica building. From here, the journey to Montserrat takes us about an hour or so. However, as this is a private shore excursion, we also arrange pick up and drop off from the port..

One of the main reasons people book with us is that they want the intimacy of a small group, but like to have somebody there to explain things.

Keeping to our philosophy of giving you plenty of free time to explore on your own, but guiding you in the right direction, the first thing we do on arrival is explain the various options.

A visit to the sanctuary where the ‘Moreneta’ is housed is a must. The sanctuary has been in use for almost 1000 years for those pilgrims and other visitors who have climbed this spectacular mountain.

You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the fascinating Museum of Montserrat, with its five collections, ranging from Archaeology from the Biblical East to Modern Painting and Sculpture. 

A highlight of visiting Montserrat is listening to one of Europe’s oldest children’s choirs, La Escolania de Montserrat. They usually sing at 1pm on weekdays and noon at the weekend.

Besides these cultural possibilities, there are numerous walks around Montserrat, ranging from easy strolls to serious hikes. Each trail offers a different perspective on the stunning views over the surrounding landscape, many of which are peppered with small chapels and hermitages.

You'll easily find a route to suit your taste and energy levels. But whether they're fairly strenuous treks or gentle walks, they all give you fantastic views to marvel at the unspoiled beauty of this protected natural park. 

If you'd rather not walk at all, then another option is to take one of the two rack railways, or the cable car, offering yet more views of the area. 

After a morning in Montserrat, we leave the mountain at around 2:30pm, heading for Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, home to the famous Cava champagne and, in particularly, home to Codorniu where we'll visit their vast underground wine cellars.

Sant Sadurní d’Anoia is situated in the Penedès wine-growing region, which boasts one of the widest varieties of grape of any wine-growing region in the world. 

The tour at Codorniu is a great chance to see exactly how the famous sparkling wine is produced, from the first pressing of the grapes to the second fermentation in the vast expanse of cellars. 

Of course, no winery visit would be complete without a taste of the stuff! At the den of the tour you'll get the chance to try some of the best Cava the region produces.

We leave the winery at around 5:30pm, returning to Barcelona for around 6:30pm.

Girona & Costa Brava Small Group Day Tour from Barcelona

Highlights:

• Personalized small group and commentary
• Expert English-speaking guide
• Transported by air-conditioned coach

Travel back in time as you get lost in the medieval city of Girona, before discovering the rugged and unspoiled beauty of the Costa Brava.

Journey to the Costa Brava and visit the colourful Roman city of Girona, a melting pot of cultures. Explore the winding medieval streets of the Jewish quarter, walk along the Roman wall that surrounds the old town, or discover the Arab Baths.  

Afterwards, we visit the pristine mediaeval village of Pals before heading down the coastal route to admire the breath-taking sea-views, cliffs and coves of the Costa Brava.

We stop in Calella de Palafrugell where you can walk around the rocky coast, sunbathe and swim, or visit the  botanical gardens set on the cliff tops of Cap Roig.

Full tour description:

The tour leaves Barcelona from our city centre office opposite the famous Palau de la Musica monument at 8:30am and heads straight up to Girona, a well-established city that has survived many a siege in the course of its long history, since its founding in around 76 BC. However, as this is a private tour we also offer hotel pick up and drop off.  

It has been dominated by many different people, and, as a result, has a great richness of architectural heritage. 

The Cathedral, founded in 1038 on the site of a former Mosque, and the spectacular Roman walls, along which you can walk, are just two examples of this. 

There are a wide variety of museums and sites of historical interest in Girona, such as the Jewish Call and the Arab Bath house. If you prefer, the narrow streets of the old town are very pleasant just to wander around, indulge in a spot of window-shopping, or find a secluded café and sit back to watch people pass by.

From Girona, the tour heads to the impossibly charming Pals, a small medieval village that grew out of what was once a fortress. The name of the city comes from palus, the Latin word for marshlands, as this is what the fortress used to be surrounded by. 

More recently, the town’s beach became famous as the location of the masts for Radio Liberty, a US radio station used to broadcast pro-capitalist programmes into the Eastern bloc during the cold war; the masts can still be seen.

From Pals, we head to the fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell. This delightful escape has whitewashed houses that reach right down to the sea-front and a number of traditional restaurants - perfect for a leisurely lunch. You can also explore the rocky coastline, take a dip in the inviting waters, or follow the coastline round to the beautiful cliff-top botanic gardens at Cap Roig.

If the Costa Brava is what really appeals to you, then take a look at our Dalí Day Tour, which reaches even deeper into the Costa Brava.

From Calella de Palafrugell we will return to Barcelona, arriving at 7:30pm.

Pyrenees Mountains Small Group Day Tour from Barcelona

Highlights:

• Visit Dalí Museum-Theatre in Figueres
  
• Personalized small group and commentary
  
• Expert English-speaking guide
  
• Best tour for Dali enthusiasts and you'll see hidden treasures off the beaten path

The Ultimate Dalí Small Group Day Tour from Barcelona

During the summer months, the drive to Cadaques can take a long time due to the number of people wanting to visit the town and beach. For this reason, we substitute the visit to Dalí's house with a visit to the castle at Pubol he gave to his wife.

Winter Schedule 15th September - 30th June

One of the most complete Dalí tours available. Spend the morning at the unique Dalí museum in Figueres and finish the day on his beloved Costa Brava, visiting his home in Port Lligat and the magnificent Cap de Creus. 

This tour we offer you is much more than just a Dalí-Museum Tour as we visit places that other tours leave behind.

Summer Schedule 1st July - 14th September

To avoid the crowds in Cadaques during the height of the summer, we substitute the Dalí house in Port Lligat with a visit to Pubol Castle, the magnificent present he gave to his beloved wife.

Full tour description:

We depart from our city centre office opposite the Palau de la Musica monument at 8:30am, and set out for Figueres, the birthplace of Dalí and home to the world famous Dalí Museum-Theatre. However, as this is a private tour we are also able to offer hotel pick and drop off. In Figueres, you will be able to explore where he was born on Monturiol Street and visit the museum. 

Those wanting to visit, will find a museum like none other. Dalí wanted visitors to see his massive collection as a ‘whole’ work, and for this reason he wanted no catalogues and refused to have his works placed in chronological or subject order. Step inside Dalí’s world of fantasy mixed with architecture mixed with paintings and sculptures. It’s a complete surrealistic experience. 

Winter Schedule 15th September - 30th June

After our morning visit inside the mind of Dalí, we head for the beautiful coastal village of Cadaqués.

Famous for its white washed Mediterranean houses, narrow shady streets, and sandy bay, this is one of the most picturesque villages on the Costa Brava. 

But what really stands out for many people is the dramatic drive there, which offers some of the best views in the whole of Catalunya.   

For lunch, you can enjoy local seafood specialities in one of the numerous terraces facing the Mediterranean, or grab a sandwich and simply relax and appreciate why this place inspired so many artists.

After lunch we will travel just a few minutes up the coast to the even smaller village of Port Lligat, the place where Dalí sought the peace and quiet that truly inspired him. 

When the artist met the love of his life, Gala, he broke away from his parents and bought a fishermen’s hut there.

It was here that Dalí lived from 1930 onwards, gradually altering and enlarging the original dwelling he bought there and which shared the same name as the bay. 

The house of Port Lligat must be considered Dalí’s only true home. It was in this studio that he painted the majority of his great works. Every detail of the house bears his imprint, and the house still contains his original furniture and decoration. 

Finally, we will more on to Cap de Creus, the most easterly point of mainland Spain and one of the most starkly beautiful coastal landscapes in the whole of the country. 

If you like the Costa Brava and want to see more, then have a look at our Girona & Costa Brava Day Tour.

We will leave at around 5:00pm and arrive back in Barcelona at around 7:00pm. 

Summer Schedule 1st July - 14th September

Our summer schedule follows the winter schedule for the morning but follows a different itinerary after leaving the museum.

Following your visit here, the tour travels to the village of Pubol, where there will be ample opportunities to eat in a traditional Catalan restaurant. 

After lunch you can visit another masterpiece of Dalí’s: Pubol Castle. Dalí gave the castle to Gala in the spring of 1970, on the condition that he himself would not enter it unless personally invited by Gala. 

He carefully restored the old Gothic Renaissance Palace and furnished it with items bought from various antique dealers around the region. Inside, he painted frescoes and later painted two water colours entitled ‘View of Pubol’.

In typical Dalí fashion, he promised his wife that he would only ever visit the castle when she invited him.

But, perhaps most lovingly and saddest of all, he also built the crypt where Gala is now buried deep in the bowels of the castle. At the end of his life, Dalí received the title of Marquis Dalí of Pubol, although Dalí only lived in the Castle for 2 years after Gala passed away.

In mid afternoon your tour will continue to Platge de Castell, one of those rare hidden corners you can still find on the Costa Brava. Dalí visited this region several times in the 1930s, especially a place called Mas Juny, owned by his friend Josep Sert, a famous Catalan painter of the time. 

This place was famous for its artistic gatherings and parties, which were attended by Dalí. Even today, the Costa Brava, with its transparent waters and pine forests, is not so different from the 1930s. This rocky coastline has been saved from high buildings and large scale tourism projects and still preserves that ‘wild aspect’ that gave the name to Costa Brava. There is no better homage to Dalí and no better way to finish the day than to enjoy the turquoise waters of the Mediterranean.

We will leave at around 5:00pm and arrive back in Barcelona at around 7:00pm.  

Barcelona Half Day Highlights Skip the Line Tour

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Average Group size just 8-15 people
• No Cancellations
• Guided visit of inside Sagrada Familia - SKIP THE QUEUES!
• Panoramic view of Barcelona from Montjüic hill
• Drive through the Eixample, Barcelona's modernist centre
• Drive up Passeig de Gracia - Barcelona's luxury shopping area
• Walking tour of Barcelona's Gothic quarter
• Visit the 2,000 year old Roman Temple
• Visit the Santa Maria del Mar

Our Barcelona Highlights Half Day tour offers a comprehensive view of the city. We visit all of the most iconic sights the city has to offer as well as introducing some of Barcelona's best-kept secrets.

We start our tour with a drive to the famous hill of Montjüic, which offers excellent views over the city and was the site of the 1992 Olympic games.

After a brief stop at the Catalunya National Art Museum (MNAC) we will make our way down to Plaça Espanya and on past the Modernist buildings of the Eixample area.

Our drive to the iconic Sagrada Famlia will take us up Passeig de Gracia, home to the famous designer stores, and the setting for two of Barcelona's most talked about Gaudï buildings: La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.

Before arriving at the Sagrda Família, we will stop at the Hospital de Sant pau I de Santes Creus, built between 1901 and 1930. Well away from the tourist route, this hospital has been declared a 'UNESCO World Heritage Site' and is one of the greatest symbols of the Modernist Architecture in Barcelona.

Finally, we will arrive at Sagrada Família, stopping there for a visit inside the building. Our 'Skip the Line' policy means entrance tickets will have been pre-purchased and there will no NO QUEUES! For many, this is the highlight of their Barcelona experience.

The group will then head to the oldest part of Barcelona, the Barrio Gótico, which, as late, the mid 19th century was still surrounded by the Mediaeval walls.

At this point, we will leave the bus and enjoy a stroll through the narrow winding streets of mediaeval Barcelona.

At the start of our short walk through the historic streets of Barcelona, we will stop for brief tour of one of Barcelona's most traditional indoor food markets: Mercat de Santa Caterina.

From there, we will travel back in time, going from the Roman era through to the early Middle Ages, when the Catalan counts were controlling the Mediterranean sea and Barcelona was the capital of an empire.

During this part of the tour, we will also visit the Jewish Quarter, the Royal palace, the original 2000 year old Roman Temple and part of the Cathedral.

The final part of the tour takes in part of the Born district, where the guide will point out a variety of restaurants and tapas bars suitable for lunch before ending the tour in the magnificent Santa Maria del Mar church - one of the most beautiful in Barcelona.

The guide will be more than happy to make some recommendations for lunch or dinner in the area, or for further sightseeing or shopping trips.

Montserrat, Gaudí and Modernsim Private Day Tour

Highlights

• Full-day small group tour by minivan to Montserrat
• Personalized small group and commentary
• Free time to explore Montserrat Monastery's basilica and scenic parklands
• Tour of Colonia Güell and the Gaudí built crypt
• Tour of Gaudí's Park Güell
• Professional English-speaking guide
• Illuminating commentary from your expert guide
• 
  

Tour Summary -

This private day trip from Barcelona combines one of Barcelona's most iconic attractions, Montserrat, with the modernist architecture of one of Spain’s most famous sons, Antoni Gaudí, You’ll enjoy stunning views of the area, see historic artifacts and admire the work of one of the world’s most legendary architects.

Full Tour Description

Leaving Barcelona in your private minivan, your private day trip from Barcelona heads first to Montserrat, a craggy mountain outside of the city that is home to a Benedictine abbey. You'll visit a sanctuary in the abbey that houses La Moreneta, a 12th-century statue of a black Virgin Mary. The sanctuary has been a destination for pilgrims and other visitors for almost 1,000 years.

You’ll also have time to visit the Museum of Montserrat, with its five collections ranging from Archaeology from the Biblical East to Modern Painting and Sculpture. Or discover the different walking paths on Montserrat – there are routes to suit all tastes and energy levels. You can also take one of the mountain’s two rack railways or the cable car, which offer different views of the area, or simply savor the views from the café, which offers panoramas of the valleys.

After lunch, you’ll visit Colonia Güell, where you’ll see an unfinished church by Antoni Gaudi. Gaudi only finished the crypt, which you can visit. 

Finally, finish your day trip back in Barcelona at Park Güell, the magical city garden designed by Gaudí that features some of his most creative designs. See the famous mosaic lizard and strange 'Gingerbread Houses' that enchant visitors of all ages. Follow the winding alleys, passing over bridges or under twisting rock pillars. Admire the fascinating ceramic benches and the fantastic view over Barcelona. Get lost in the fascinating labyrinth made up of rocks and pine trees. You can choose to stay at Park Güell after your tour ends, or return to your Barcelona hotel.

This private day trip from Barcelona is hosted by a professional guide. Please list any special interests you have (art, architecture, history, culture) at the time of booking to alert your guide, who will then prepare for your private tour.

Barcelona Full Day Private Highlights Skip the Line Tour

HIGHLIGHTS:

• No Cancellations
  
• Guided visit of inside Sagrada Familia - SKIP THE QUEUES!
• Panoramic view of Barcelona from Montjüic hill
• Drive through the Eixample, Barcelona's modernist centre
• Drive up Passeig de Gracia - Barcelona's luxury shopping area
• Walking tour of Barcelona's Gothic quarter
• Visit the 2,000 year old Roman Temple
• Visit the Santa Maria del Mar
• Visit of Gaudí's Park Güell
  
• Visit to Gaudí's famous La Pedrera - SKIP THE QUEUES!

Our Barcelona Highlights Full Day tour offers a comprehensive view of the city. We visit all of the most iconic sights the city has to offer as well as introducing some of Barcelona's best-kept secrets.

We start our tour with a drive to the famous hill of Montjüic, which offers excellent views over the city and was the site of the 1992 Olympic games.

After a brief stop at the Catalunya National Art Museum (MNAC) we will make our way down to Plaça Espanya and on past the Modernist buildings of the Eixample area.

Our drive to the iconic Sagrada Famlia will take us up Passeig de Gracia, home to the famous designer stores, and the setting for two of Barcelona's most talked about Gaudï buildings: La Pedrera and Casa Batlló.

Before arriving at the Sagrda Família, we will stop at the Hospital de Sant pau I de Santes Creus, built between 1901 and 1930. Well away from the tourist route, this hospital has been declared a 'UNESCO World Heritage Site' and is one of the greatest symbols of the Modernist Architecture in Barcelona.

Finally, we will arrive at Sagrada Família, stopping there for a visit inside the building. Our 'Skip the Line' policy means entrance tickets will have been pre-purchased and there will noNO QUEUES! For many, this is the highlight of their Barcelona experience.

The group will then head to the oldest part of Barcelona, the Barrio Gótico, which, as late, the mid 19th century was still surrounded by the Mediaeval walls.

At this point, we will leave the bus and enjoy a stroll through the narrow winding streets of mediaeval Barcelona.

At the start of our short walk through the historic streets of Barcelona, we will stop for brief tour of one of Barcelona's most traditional indoor food markets: Mercat de Santa Caterina.

From there, we will travel back in time, going from the Roman era through to the early Middle Ages, when the Catalan counts were controlling the Mediterranean sea and Barcelona was the capital of an empire.

During this part of the tour, we will also visit the Jewish Quarter, the Royal palace, the original 2000 year old Roman Temple and part of the Cathedral.

The final part of the tour takes in part of the Born district, where the guide will point out a variety of restaurants and tapas bars suitable for lunch before ending the tour in the magnificent Santa Maria del Mar church - one of the most beautiful in Barcelona.

The guide will be more than happy to make some recommendations for lunch or dinner in the area, or for further sightseeing or shopping trips.

After a quick lunch, we head straight to Park Güell, the famous city garden designed by Anton Gaudí. The guide will lead the group down through the park explaining the garden concept and introducing you to some of Gaudí's most bizarre creations.

From the Park we head straight to one of the most famous Gaudíbuildings of them all: La Pedrera. We will have an hour here to visit inside the building. Our 'Skip the Line' policy means that there is no waiting in queues! The tour ends here at around 4pm.

Small- Group Medieval Villages Trip from Barcelona

Highlights

• Small-group day trip to Catalonia medieval villages from Barcelona
• Visit the charming medieval villages of Besalú and Tavertet with your guide
• Enjoy free time in Rupit to visit medieval locations and have a traditional lunch at a local restaurant (own expense) 
• Take in stunning views of the countryside from the Cingles de Tavertet
  sandstone cliffs
• See the beautiful Castellfollit de la Roca village located at the edge of a
  basalt cliff
• Small-group tour ensures a more personalized experience 

Overview

Travel back to Medieval age on this small-group tour. Visit the beautifully
preserved villages of Besalú and Tavertet and learn interesting facts about
these historical locations from your guide. Have free time in Rupit village to see
the Baroque-era Church of Sant Miquel and have a traditional Catalan lunch
(own expense) at a local restaurant. Take in views of the remains of the Castle
of Rupit, Castellfollit de la Roca and the Cingles de Tavertet sandstone cliffs.
This small-group tour ensures you’ll receive personalized attention from your
guide.


Detailed Description

Meet your guide in central Barcelona and relax in a comfortable minivan as you
take in views of the green countryside on the 1.5-hour drive to Besalú.


When you arrive, enjoy a guided walking tour of this beautifully preserved
village from the Middle Ages. See the town's arcaded streets, visit a restored
mikveh (an old Jewish bath from the 12th century), and see the remains of a
medieval synagogue.


Continue by minivan toward the village of Rupit. On the way, pass by
Castellfollit de la Roca, one of the smallest towns in Catalonia with 1,000
habitants in just 3,280 square feet (1,000 square meters), located on the edge
of a basalt precipice.

When you arrive in Rupit, enjoy two hours of free time to
visit this beautiful village at your own leisure. Wander along the cobblestone
streets lined with 16th-century country houses, stop by the hanging wooden
bridge, and visit the Baroque-era Church of Sant Miquel. Have lunch at a local
restaurant (own expense) and see the remains of the Castle of Rupit on a rocky
peak.


Next, enjoy a scenic drive to the top of the Cingles de Tavertet sandstone cliffs,
located by the Ter river valley. Pass by a megalithic tomb -- a field of funerary
urns -- and the Iberian Wall until you reach the village of Tavertet.

With your
guide, visit this charming village, declared a National Property of Cultural
Interest due to its 48 preserved houses from the 17th and 18th centuries. Learn
interesting facts about this village as you admire the houses and the 11th century
Romanesque Church of Sant Cristòfol.

Enjoy a short break to grab a
coffee at a local café (own expense) or walk to the viewpoint to admire stunning
views over the Panta de Sau lake.
Then, relax on the drive back to Barcelona and take in views of El Magatalls, a
beautiful lush forest, and El Montseny, a UNESCO Man and Biosphere-listed
natural park. 

Climb aboard a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, with a guaranteed maximum of just 8 other travellers, at a centrally located pickup point in Barcelona, and admire the picturesque Catalan countryside as you travel toward your fist stop, the ancient city of Girona. 

Listen as your guide regales you with tales dating back to Girona’s 76 BC origin, and then embark on a tour of the medieval metropolis’ rich architectural tableau.  During some leisurely free time, see the great Cathedral, founded in 1038 on the site of a former Mosque, admire the spectacular Roman walls that defended the city from attackers, or travel back in time at one of Girona’s comprehensive museums.  

Return to the vehicle and then head to Pals, a small city that grew from the foreboding fortress at its center. Continue to the charming fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell, and gaze at the dramatic hillside scenery as you travel past Begur, site of ancient castle ruins.  

On arrival in Calella de Palafrugell, relish the picturesque tableau of whitewashed houses and pristine sandy beaches, and set off to explore the rugged coastline. Sink your toes into the soft sands of the beach, take a dip in the refreshing waters of the ocean, or absorb the botanical beauty of the cliff top gardens at Cap Roig.  

Your guide will give you free time to explore, but they will also treat you to a delicious, typical lunch with local wine at one of the charming restaurants at the edge of the sea.   After a leisurely lunch and some free time, you'll reconvene with your guide and group at a prearranged time, and relax during the journey back to Barcelona, where your tour concludes. 

Read more about VIP Small Group Guided Tour: Girona and Costa Brava with Lunch 2019 - Barcelona - https://www.viator.com/tours/Barcelona/VIP-Small-Group-Guided-Tour-Girona-and-Costa-Brava-with-Lunch/d562-3142P32?mcid=56757