The jagged tops of the Pyrenees mountains dominate the horizon for well over 400 kilometers, providing a natural border between France and Spain. Day trips from Barcelona to the Pyrenees are a great way to explore this wilderness and visit a number of delightful villages.

The Pyrenees mountain range is truly massive, encompassing most of northeastern Spain and making it ideal for lovers of the great outdoors. A visit here can include anything from hiking and bike tours, to helicopter flights, bungee jumping and ziplining.

Here's all you need to know about the Pyrenees, one of the most exciting day trips from Barcelona.

How to get to the Pyrenees from Barcelona?

The Pyrenees mountain range forms the border between France and Spain and stretches from the Mediterranean Sea to the Atlantic Ocean.

From Barcelona to the Pyrenees by car

You can easily travel to Pyrenees towns like Queralbs by car from Barcelona — allowing you to explore the large swathes of the mountains during a self-drive tour.

From Barcelona, head north on the C17, toward the medieval town of Vic. Stay on the route until it changes to the N-260, and you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Pyrenees. The entire journey is just over 130 kilometers long and will take 2 hours to complete.

Guided tour to the Pyrenees from Barcelona

A guided tour from Barcelona is one of the best ways to explore the Pyrenees, as you’ll have a qualified tour leader accompanying you. You also won’t have to worry about renting a car or navigating the myriad mountain passes.

What is the typical itinerary?

The typical itinerary of a Pyrenees day tour largely depends on the type of trip you choose — with a hiking trip markedly different than a sightseeing tour.

The latter usually starts with an air-conditioned vehicle picking you up from your hotel in Barcelona. The first stop depends on the area of the Pyrenees you’ll be visiting, with Vic and Besalú being options.

Following a stop at one of these historical towns, you’ll head into the heart of the Pyrenees mountains. Here you’ll enjoy some of the most pristine wilderness that Spain has to offer, often feeling as if you’ve been transported back in time.

The area is perfect for both sightseeing expeditions and more strenuous activities like hiking tours or bicycle tours, and you’ll visit far-flung villages as you go. Take an opportunity to try some of the local delicacies — morsels that you’ll find nowhere else apart from the most specialized of food tours.

What kinds of tours are available to go to the Pyrenees Mountains?

There are a number of day trips and tours from Barcelona to the Pyrenees, covering a range of activities and experiences.

Guided group day tour to the Pyrenees from Barcelona

A guided group day tour will visit most of the Pyrenees’ must-see attractions — making it the best option for travelers that want to save time or money. Start your tour with a visit to the central market in Vic and learn how it served as the commercial heart of the area.

Then venture into the Pyrenees’ hinterland, discovering the quaint villages nestled in their stony embrace. Finally, enjoy a local meal before heading back to Barcelona and — what will feel like — another world.

Pyrenees group tour from Barcelona with hiking

Be sure to pack your boots as you set to tame the Pyrenees wilderness during this day trip. Let your feet guide you through La Vall de Ribes, exploring one of the mountain range’s most iconic valleys in a hiking tour.

Along the way, you’ll learn more about the local fauna and flora — while your passionate guide tells you how the mountains play an essential role in daily life. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the wildlife, providing an unforgettable memory of Spain’s great wilderness.

Private day trip to the Pyrenees from Barcelona

A private day trip to the Pyrenees is a great option if you have the money to spare. You’ll enjoy unfettered access to your guide, and also be able to determine the itinerary of your trip. Make sure to bring some friends along, as this expedition becomes more affordable the more people you are.

How much does a day trip to the Pyrenees from Barcelona cost?

A trip to the Pyrenees starts from around €100 per person. A guided group day tour to the Pyrenees from Barcelona costs €110 per person in a large tour group, with up to 30 people traveling with you.

A Pyrenees small group tour from Barcelona with hiking will cost €125 per person and you’ll have a dedicated hiking guide travel with you. The trip is limited to a total of eight people, adding further value to the expedition.

A private day trip to the Pyrenees from Barcelona costs €500 per person. However, the price per person decreases as the number of participants increases, and your party will be the only people taking part.

What will you see and do?

Pyrenees mountains

The Pyrenees mountains form a natural barrier between Spain and France and even encompass the sovereign nation of Andorra. The mountain range is renowned for its vast wilderness, breathtaking vistas and secluded villages.

The Pyrenees mountains have shaped both the history of the region as well as the way of life — making it an unmissable destination when visiting eastern Spain.

Vic

The medieval town of Vic traces its history back to Roman times and remains an important Catalan city to this day. It’s known for its beautiful architecture and lip-smacking food — as anyone who’s enjoyed a cooking class in the city can attest to.

Queralbs Village

Queralbs is an unforgettable stone-crafted town perched in the midst of three of the Pyrenees’ peaks — Puigmal, Infern and Noufonts. The town offers spectacular scenes any time of the year, and it’s undoubtedly one of Spain’s most beautiful villages.

La Vall de Ribes

La Vall de Ribes is a valley formed by the meandering Freser River and is one of the most beautiful and fertile valleys in the Pyrenees. It’s also home to some of the area’s best hiking trails and a must-visit destination for lovers of the outdoors.

When is the best time to visit the Pyrenees mountains?

The best time to visit the Pyrenees is typically in the summer (June to August). This is the best time for hiking, biking and other outdoor activities. The weather is warm and the days are longer, allowing more time to explore.

However, it's also the busiest time of year. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder months when the weather is also cooler.

What other day trips can you do from Barcelona?

• Day trips to Montserrat from Barcelona
• Barcelona day tours to Costa Brava
• Day trips to Girona from Barcelona
• Figueres day trips from Barcelona
• Barcelona day trips to Sitges

Travel tips

• Dressing in layers allows you to adjust to changing temperatures and conditions. Don't forget a waterproof layer, as rain can be a common occurrence in the mountains.
• Whether you're hiking or strolling through mountain villages, comfortable and sturdy footwear is a must.
• The sun can be strong in the mountains, even in colder weather. Bring sunglasses, a hat, and sunscreen.
• The Pyrenees region is known for its delicious cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to try local dishes.