If you’re spending your holiday at our hotel in Blanes and want to make the most of your time on the Costa Brava, a fantastic idea is to take a day trip to Barcelona. Thanks to the excellent train connection, you can explore the highlights of the Catalan capital easily and stress-free. In this guide, we’ll show you how to get there, what to see, and share some practical tips for your visit.

The R1/RG1 commuter train line connects Blanes directly with central Barcelona (Plaça de Catalunya), with trains running approximately every 30 minutes.

• Travel time: between 1 hour 20 minutes and 1 hour 30 minutes
• First train: around 06:03 AM
• Last return train from Barcelona: usually at 10:50 PM
• Check updated schedules on the official website: Rodalies de Catalunya

Morning

Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel, or request a picnic the night before.

• Head straight to the iconic Sagrada Família, Gaudí’s most famous architectural masterpiece.
• Then, choose one of these two great options:
  • Park Güell: ideal if you enjoy nature and panoramic views over the city.
  • Passeig de Gràcia & the Eixample district: perfect for discovering modernist architecture, including Casa Batlló and La Pedrera by Gaudí.

Midday

• Enjoy some delicious tapas in the Gothic Quarter or El Born, two of Barcelona’s most charming neighborhoods, known for their rich history and excellent food scene.

Afternoon and Evening

• Unwind with a relaxing walk along La Barceloneta and its scenic seafront promenade.
• Cultural option:
  • Visit the Picasso Museum or the Born Cultural Centre, depending on your interests.
• Enjoy a light snack or dinner at the Olympic Port or in the modern district of Poblenou, known for its vibrant food scene.
• End your day with a stroll down Las Ramblas all the way to Plaça Catalunya.

Return to Blanes

We recommend taking the return train between 8:00 PM and 9:30 PM, which will get you back to Blanes between 10:20 PM and 11:13 PM, depending on the schedule.

Practical Tips for Your Day Trip

• Buy a round-trip ticket directly at the Rodalies de Catalunya train station.
• Book tickets in advance for the Sagrada Família or Park Güell, and arrive at least 30 minutes early.
• Walking is the best way to explore Barcelona – wear comfortable shoes.
• If you get tired, the metro is a fast and safe alternative. Check the metro map: mapametrobarcelona.com
• Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Is It Worth Visiting Barcelona from Blanes in One Day?

Yes, definitely! This day trip is totally doable thanks to the convenient train connection. In just one day, you can explore some of Barcelona’s most iconic landmarks without needing to stay overnight. It’s perfect for families, couples, or curious travelers looking to combine beach and city during their Costa Brava holiday.

Ready to discover Barcelona from Blanes? An unforgettable day awaits you!