If you’re looking for a fun day trip from Barcelona that’s only a short train ride from the centre, Sant Cugat del Vallès is a great option any time of the year. From its impressive monastery to its vibrant local scene, it offers everything from history and culture to food, shopping, and more.
Plan your day trip to Sant Cugat
Here’s our comprehensive guide to spending the day in Sant Cugat.
Morning: Visit the Monastery of Sant Cugat
Photo: Vivienne Tregerthan
Start your day with a visit to the Monastery of Sant Cugat, one of the town’s most iconic landmarks. This Benedictine Monastery, founded in the 9th century, stands as a testament to the region’s rich history. Take note of the cloister, which is decorated with intricate carvings that depict biblical scenes and daily medieval life. The monastery also houses a small museum where you can learn about the site’s history and see artifacts recovered from the area. The Gothic church attached to the monastery is also worth exploring, with its impressive rose window and serene interior.
Late Morning: Explore the Mercantic
Photo: Traveler
After soaking in the history of the monastery, head to Mercantic, a vibrant flea market that specialises in antiques and vintage items. Housed in a former ceramics factory, the market is a labyrinth of stalls and shops offering everything from mid-century furniture and vintage clothing to rare books and quirky collectibles.
Make the most out of your day trip to Sant Cugat by browsing the eclectic mix of goods, and don’t be afraid to haggle with the vendors for the best deals. Even if you’re not in the mood to buy, the market’s lively atmosphere and unique items make it a fun place to explore. There's also a section dedicated to local artisans, where you can find handmade jewelry, ceramics, and other crafts. If you get hungry, the market has several food trucks and cafes where you can grab a quick snack or a coffee.
Lunch: Try the best local cuisine
Photo: Vivienne Tregerthan
When it’s time for lunch, there is no shortage of dining options that cater to all tastes. For a traditional Catalan meal, head to La Bolera, a local favourite offering dishes made from fresh, local ingredients. Make sure to try their paella and fideuà, while enjoying the cozy, authentic atmosphere of the restaurant. Another great choice is Cal Temerari, a restaurant known for its commitment to sustainability and local produce. The menu here changes seasonally to use the freshest ingredients available. Plus, the selection of vegetarian and vegan options, along with traditional Catalan dishes, means that there’s something for everyone.
For a casual long lunch on your day trip to Sant Cugat, try El Vi de Deu. This eatery offers a wide selection of tapas, along with an impressive wine list featuring local and regional wines. Their terrace or outdoor seating area is perfect for spending a breezy afternoon with a glass of wine in hand, eating patatas bravas, croquetas, and grilled seafood.
Afternoon: Stroll through the town
Photo: Vivienne Tregerthan
After lunch, walk off the bravas with a stroll around the town. The main strip is lined with cute stores and art galleries, including the Cellar Modernista, a contemporary art gallery housed in a former wine cellar. You might also stumble across the Casa Museum Cal Garrer, which is a small museum that offers insights into the history and culture of Sant Cugat, displaying a bit of everything including local art and historical artifacts.
Craving a bit of nature away from the hustle and bustle of the city? This quaint town is home to some beautiful green spaces like the Parc de Can Vernet. With its well-maintained gardens and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to reset while on your day trip to Sant Cugat. For an afternoon pick-me-up, head to Somewhere Cafè for a good cup of specialty coffee to set you up for the rest of the day.
Evening: Live music and craft beers at Bar Bocamoll
Photo: Bar Bocamoll
As the day gets on, make your way to Bar Bocamoll, a popular local spot known for its live music and craft beers. Grab a seat, order a pint of locally brewed craft beer, and enjoy a diverse range of sounds from jazz and blues to indie and rock. If you’re still full from lunch, their bravas, croquetas, and other snacks are the perfect bite to keep you going into the night. Hungrier? Bar Bocamoll also offers a menu of more substantial meals like burgers, salads, and sandwiches, all made with fresh, quality ingredients. Winding up here is the perfect end to your day trip to Sant Cugat.
Additional activities and sights
Photo: Collserola Natural Park
If you have more time to spend in Sant Cugat, there are several other activities and sights worth exploring. If you enjoy hiking, the Collserola Natural Park is just a short distance from the town centre, offering a number of trails with stunning views of the surrounding countryside and the city of Barcelona in the distance. Whether you’re an experienced hiker or just looking for an easy walk through nature, Collserola Natural Park is definitely worth planning into your day trip to Sant Cuguat.
The town also has a vibrant cultural scene, with a festivals and events taking place all throughout the year. Check the local calendar to see if there are any festivals, concerts, or markets happening during your visit. These events are a great opportunity to experience the local culture.
So, if you’re looking for day trip ideas from Barcelona, make sure you don’t sleep on Sant Cugat, a super cute town offering a blend of history, culture, and local charm. Head to the monastery, browse for antiques at Mercantic, enjoy a slow lunch at one of its many traditional restaurants, and see where the night takes you too. Less than 1 hour by train from Plaza Catalunya, it’s easy and definitely worth your while. Happy exploring!
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