easy
10–12 hours
Basic fitness for walking city streets and train travel is required.
Take a high-speed train from Madrid to discover Barcelona’s Gothic Quarter, ancient Roman ruins, and Gaudí’s iconic Sagrada Família—all in one day with World Experience.
Explore Barcelona's iconic landmarks on a day trip from Madrid aboard a high-speed train.
Embark on a captivating journey from Madrid to Barcelona aboard a high-speed train, where an expert guide reveals the city's architectural wonders. Explore the Gothic Quarter, visit the Museum of Ancient Ruins, and admire iconic landmarks like Sagrada Familia. Experience a day filled with history, culture, and unforgettable memories.
Have fun and feel unique in your experience on a Premium Small Group tour.
DURATION 13 hours
ABOUT
Begin your journey in Madrid and brace yourself to uncover the wonders of Barcelona aboard a high-speed train. In just 2.5 hours, the cosmopolitan Catalan city beckons, inviting you to explore and admire its architectural and cultural gems.
Upon arrival, an expert guide will lead you in unveiling Barcelona's hidden treasures and iconic landmarks. Start your day with a brief walk to Plaza España, from where you’ll then follow to Colon to relish the sea breeze at Barcelona’s harbor, where urban life meets Mediterranean serenity.
From there, embark on a walking tour through The Gothic Quarter. Feel the past come alive as you wander through the labyrinthine streets of the neighborhood, with every corner revealing ancient stories and secrets.
You’ll end at Plaza Cataluña, where you’ll have free time to savor lunch on your own. The tour then takes you down the illustrious Passeig de Gràcia, where masterpieces like Casa Batlló and La Pedrera await your admiration. Dive into history and art as you stand in awe of the Sagrada Familia, Antoni Gaudi’s unfinished masterpiece.
There, your guide will share intriguing facts about the monument as you marvel at its exterior and enjoy free time to take the best pictures (Option to purchase entrance tickets to explore its interior during your free time).
As the sunset paints the horizon, return to Madrid aboard the high-speed train, carrying memories of a day brimming with discoveries.
INCLUDES
• Round-trip high-speed train tickets between Madrid and Barcelona. • Expert guide fluent in English. • Walking tour of Barcelona's main points of interest.
NOT INCLUDED
• Tips (optional) • Meals and drinks • Hotel pick up • Sagrada Familia tickets (Optional purchase 48 hours in advance)
Reserve your spot in advance to secure seats on the high-speed train and guarantee entry to popular sites like Sagrada Família.
This trip requires walking on uneven cobblestones and navigating narrow streets—sturdy, comfortable shoes are a must.
Keep hydrated as you walk through sun-exposed city streets, particularly if visiting during warmer months.
Free time is limited—plan your food stops and photo ops to maximize the day without rushing.
MUHBA covers Roman Barcino remains, established as a Roman colony in the 1st century BC, showcasing Barcelona's deep historical roots.
Barcelona actively promotes sustainable tourism to preserve its historic sites and urban green spaces amid increasing visitor numbers.
Critical for navigating cobblestone lanes and stairs comfortably throughout the day.
Handy for carrying essentials like water, snacks, and a jacket without weighing you down.
Protect yourself from UV rays while walking exposed streets and plazas.
spring|summer|fall specific
Temperatures vary throughout the day; layering allows adaption to changing weather.
fall|winter|spring specific