Montserrat Monastery Half Day Experience from Barcelona

Montserrat, ES
98% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (4457 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    Lunch
  • inclusion
    2 hour free time to explore montserrat on your own
  • inclusion
    Round transfer from the centre of barcelona to the monastery
  • inclusion
    "montserrat with la moreneta" option only includes ticket to la moreneta and audiovisual space
  • inclusion
    English-speaking professional guide
  • inclusion
    'montserrat + winery + lunch" option includes a ride with coghweel train
  • inclusion
    Small group
  • inclusion
    "montserrat with boys' choir" option only includes ticket to listen to the boys' choir

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drinks in the half day options
  • exclusion
    Hotel pickup and drop-off

Meeting Point

The tour guide will be waiting at the meeting point, holding a red burgundy umbrella.

Meeting point

Ciutat Vella, Barcelona , Spain

End point

End Point

The tour guide will be waiting at the meeting point, holding a red burgundy umbrella.

Meeting point

Ciutat Vella, Barcelona , Spain

End point

What to expect

1

Montserrat

Montserrat is a mountain top monastery situated on top of an unusual rock mountain. It is the highest point of the Catalan lowlands. Montserrat monastery hosts “la Moreneta”, also called Black Madonna. The legend says that the benedictine monks found the statue, and they could not move the statue to build their monastery, so they decided to construct it around the statue. Montserrat was designated as a National Park in 1987. Nowadays, it is a site of pilgrimage for people around the world. Once in Montserrat, enjoy a 45-minute small group guided tour, and then you will have 2 hours to explore on your own. You can visit the Museum, taste the monastery’s homemade liquor, go for an easy walk to Saint Miguel's cross for an incredible viewpoint, go up the Sant Joan Funicular, take wonderful pictures, buy local products from the farmer's market, and more.

Duration 180 minutes
2

Abadia de Montserrat

The origin of the monastery is uncertain, but it is believed that the Virgin of Monsterrat (La Moreneta) was found around 880. (8.30 am and 1.30 pm tours include tickets to La Moreneta). According to the legends, the monks built the monastery around the statue. The monastery still functions to this day with over 70 monks. The basilica of Montserrat began its construction in the 16th century, and now houses an art museum. It is also the place where la Escolania, one of the oldest Boys’ Choirs in Europe, performs during religious ceremonies (you can listen to them on the 9.30 am tour).

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
3

Montserrat Museum

In your free time, you can visit the Montserrat museum, which hosts six permanent art collections and two temporary. You will find pieces from famous artists such as Picasso, Dalí, Caravaggio, and also unknown but talented artists.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
4

Sant Joan Funicular Lower Station

In your free time, take the funicular and enjoy the panoramic view of the mountain. The funicular offers a view of the monastery as well as the breathtaking views from the Pyrenees. At the top, you can also visit Aula de Natura (Nature Centre), where you will learn about the history, flora and fauna of the mountain.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible (Please let us know if this is your case since we need to arrange with the bus in advance)
  • Additional information
    'Montserrat with Boys' choir' option is available from Monday to Friday. The Tour starts at 9.30am
  • Additional information
    'Montserrat + winery + lunch' option is a full day tour, available from Monday to Saturday. The Tour starts at 8.30am
  • Additional information
    'Montserrat with La Moreneta' option is available from Monday to Sunday. The Tour starts at 8.30am and at 1.30pm.
Provided by Barcelona Local Experiences

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local cheese at the farmer's market.
  • icon
    Visit the Montserrat Museum for art.
  • icon
    Take the funicular for panoramic views.
  • icon
    The Boys' Choir performs at 1pm.
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    Don't miss the view from Saint Miguel's cross.

More About this Experience

Introduction

The Montserrat Half Day Experience from Barcelona is a truly remarkable journey that takes you to the awe-inspiring mountain of Montserrat, a renowned national park and a popular place of pilgrimage for millions of people worldwide. This tour offers an unforgettable adventure, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural significance of this unique destination.

What to expect?

By booking the Montserrat Half Day Experience, you can anticipate a range of extraordinary features and benefits. Throughout the tour, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who will provide fascinating insights into Montserrat's Basilica and Monastery, the home of the revered Black Madonna. With early access, you will have the opportunity to explore the Montserrat Monastery before the crowds arrive, giving you the chance to fully appreciate its sacred atmosphere. During the guided tour, lasting 45 minutes, you will uncover the secrets and history of Montserrat. Afterward, you will have two hours of free time to explore at your own pace, which can include visiting the farmer's market, embarking on a scenic walk to the Saint Miguel cross for breathtaking views, or taking the Sant Joan Funicular.

Who is this for?

The Montserrat Half Day Experience is designed for all types of wanderers and seekers of hidden gems. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or spiritual seeker, this tour offers something for everyone. It is perfect for those who want to escape the bustling city of Barcelona and immerse themselves in the tranquility and natural beauty of Montserrat. Furthermore, the tour is suitable for all age groups and fitness levels, making it accessible to families, solo travelers, and groups of friends alike. No matter your interests or preferences, this tour welcomes all who seek a unique and enriching experience.

Why book this?

Booking the Montserrat Half Day Experience is a decision you won't regret. With its captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Montserrat is a destination that should not be missed. This tour offers the exclusive advantage of early access to the Montserrat Monastery, allowing you to explore its sacred spaces in a calm and serene atmosphere. Additionally, having a knowledgeable guide by your side ensures that you will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the history, legends, and significance of this iconic site. The freedom to explore at your own pace during the two-hour free time adds an element of personalization to the experience, allowing you to indulge in the activities that resonate most with you. From visiting the farmer's market to taking in the panoramic views from the Sant Joan Funicular, this tour provides an unforgettable and immersive adventure.

Good to know

During the Montserrat Half Day Experience, it's important to note that the total duration of the tour is approximately 300 minutes. The meeting point for the tour is easily identifiable as your guide will be waiting with a red burgundy umbrella. The tour encompasses various steps, including exploring Montserrat, visiting the Abadia de Montserrat, and enjoying free time to visit the Montserrat museum and take a funicular ride for breathtaking views. It is worth mentioning that the Montserrat museum houses impressive art collections from renowned artists such as Picasso and Dalí, making it a must-see for art enthusiasts. As the tour concludes, you will be brought back to the meeting point in Barcelona, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience.

Reviews

The Montserrat Half Day Experience has received glowing feedback from individuals who have embarked on this unforgettable journey. Visitors speak highly of the knowledgeable guides who provide intriguing insights into the history and significance of Montserrat. Many were impressed by the exclusivity of early access to the Montserrat Monastery, considering it a true privilege to explore the sacred spaces before the crowds arrived. The two hours of free time were appreciated by many, as it allowed them to customize their experience and focus on the aspects of Montserrat that intrigued them the most. Visitors also praised the breathtaking views offered by the Sant Joan Funicular and the impressive art collections housed in the Montserrat museum. Overall, the Montserrat Half Day Experience has left a lasting impression on travelers, offering them a unique and memorable journey into the heart of Montserrat's natural and cultural wonders.

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