7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Barcelona

Barcelona, is a vibrant city known for its art, architecture, and dynamic street life. It's a hub for digital nomads who enjoy the city's cosmopolitan atmosphere and Mediterranean climate. However, even the most dedicated remote workers need a break from their screens. For those looking to escape the city for a weekend, Barcelona offers a plethora of destinations within easy reach. From popular coastal towns to hidden gems nestled in the countryside, there's something for every type of traveler. Here are seven fun weekend getaways for digital nomads living in Barcelona.

Costa Brava

The Costa Brava is a stunning stretch of Catalonia's coastline known for its rugged beauty and charming beach towns. With its crystal-clear waters and picturesque coves, it's a perfect place for relaxation or adventure. Visitors can enjoy activities like snorkeling, kayaking, and hiking along the Camino de Ronda, a coastal path offering breathtaking views. The town of Cadaqués, with its whitewashed houses and Salvador Dalí's house-museum, is a must-visit.

How to Get There: The Costa Brava is easily accessible by car or bus from Barcelona. The journey can take between 1 to 2 hours depending on the specific destination along the coast.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Cap de Creus Natural Park, the easternmost point of mainland Spain, known for its unique geological formations and stunning sea views.

Where to Stay: Hotel BlauMar in Llafranc offers a serene atmosphere and a pool with panoramic views of the sea. For a more boutique experience, try the Hotel Aigua Blava in Begur.

Where to Eat: Enjoy fresh seafood at La Blava in Calella de Palafrugell, known for its traditional Catalan dishes and seaside terrace.

Montserrat

Montserrat is a mountain range just an hour away from Barcelona, famous for its unique pink rock formations and the Santa Maria de Montserrat Abbey. The monastery is home to the revered Black Madonna statue and offers stunning panoramic views. Hiking trails abound for all levels, and the more adventurous can scale the heights via funiculars or by foot to see hermitage ruins and natural beauty.

How to Get There: Montserrat is accessible by train from Barcelona's Plaça Espanya station, followed by a cable car or rack railway to reach the monastery.

Travel Tip: Make sure to listen to the Montserrat Boys' Choir, one of the oldest in Europe, performing during religious ceremonies and at daily prayers.

Where to Stay: The Hotel Abat Cisneros Montserrat offers a historic stay right next to the monastery, with some rooms featuring views of the mountain.

Where to Eat: The Montserrat Restaurant provides traditional Catalan cuisine with ingredients sourced from the local area and spectacular views.

Figueres

Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, is home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, a surreal experience and a must-visit for art lovers. The town itself is a blend of traditional Catalan life and artistic flair. Beyond the museum, explore the Sant Ferran Castle or relax in one of the town's many cafés.

How to Get There: Figueres is about a 1.5-hour train ride from Barcelona Sants station.

Travel Tip: After visiting the Dalí Museum, take a short walk to the lesser-known Toy Museum of Catalonia for a nostalgic experience.

Where to Stay: Hotel Duran is located in the city center and is known for its comfortable rooms and proximity to the Dalí Museum.

Where to Eat: Sidreria Txot's offers a unique dining experience with Basque-style cider and tapas, and it's a local favorite.

La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park offers a landscape unlike any other in Catalonia. With over 40 dormant volcanoes and numerous lava flows, the park is a haven for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The medieval villages dotting the area, such as Besalú and Santa Pau, add to the region's charm.

How to Get There: The best way to reach La Garrotxa is by car, which takes about 1.5 hours from Barcelona.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to float over the volcanic landscape in a hot air balloon, a truly unforgettable experience.

Where to Stay: The Les Cols Pavellons in Olot offers a unique, minimalist experience amidst nature, with each room being a glass cube set among the gardens.

Where to Eat: Can Morera in Les Preses is known for its locally sourced ingredients and traditional Catalan dishes.

Tarragona

Tarragona is a coastal city to the south of Barcelona, rich in Roman history and heritage. The UNESCO-listed Roman ruins, including the amphitheater and aqueduct, are a history buff's delight. The city's old quarter and cathedral are also worth exploring, and the beach provides a relaxing end to a day of sightseeing.

How to Get There: Tarragona is just an hour's train ride from Barcelona Sants station.

Travel Tip: Visit the Mediterranean Balcony, a viewpoint offering spectacular vistas of the sea and the perfect spot for a sunset photo.

Where to Stay: Hotel Ciutat de Tarragona offers modern amenities and a central location, making it easy to explore the city.

Where to Eat: El Llagut Tarragona serves up fresh seafood and local wines in a cozy setting near the historic center.

Siurana

Siurana is a hidden gem perched on a cliff with sweeping views of the Siurana River and the surrounding countryside. This tiny village is steeped in legends and history, with its cobblestone streets and the remains of an ancient Moorish castle. It's also a popular spot for climbers due to the challenging cliffs nearby.

How to Get There: Reaching Siurana is best done by car, as it's about a 2-hour drive from Barcelona.

Travel Tip: For an unforgettable experience, visit the nearby wineries in the Priorat region to taste some of Spain's most acclaimed wines.

Where to Stay: The rural hotel La Siuranella offers charming accommodations and stunning views of the village and valley.

Where to Eat: Restaurant Els Tallers in Siurana is known for its creative dishes that incorporate local ingredients and traditional recipes.

Cardona

Cardona is a lesser-known destination that offers a journey back in time with its impressive medieval castle and the historic Salt Mountain Cultural Park. The town's ancient streets and local market provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona. It's an ideal spot for history enthusiasts and those looking for tranquility.

How to Get There: Cardona can be reached by car in about 1.5 hours from Barcelona.

Travel Tip: Make sure to take a guided tour of the Salt Mountain, where you'll explore the interior of a former salt mine and learn about its geological importance.

Where to Stay: Parador de Cardona is a luxury hotel set in a 9th-century castle, offering panoramic views and a unique historical atmosphere.

Where to Eat: La Volta del Rector is a cozy restaurant in Cardona's old town, serving delicious local cuisine in a rustic setting.

Whether you're seeking a beachside retreat, a mountain adventure, or a historical excursion, these weekend getaways from Barcelona offer a refreshing change of pace for digital nomads looking to explore the richness of Catalonia and beyond.