Montserrat with Cog-Wheel Train & Black Madonna Priority Access

Barcelona , Spain

Montserrat with Cog-Wheel Train & Black Madonna Priority Access

Active

(3381 reviews)

5h - 7h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover one of the most mystic Catalan wonders on this half-day tour. Take the cog-wheel train and enjoy a breathtaking ride up the mountain. Walk around the sanctuary and imagine the many lives lived by the monks at the site through the centuries. Visit the Black Madonna, popularly known as la Moreneta, and get a free gift.

Available options

Private Tour In English

5-hour Private Tour<br/>Pickup included

Montserrat & Video Mapping

Millennial Mapping: This tour includes Cog-wheel train up to Montserrat, acces to Black Madonna and access to the Video Mapping.

Private Tour In Spanish

5-hour Private Tour<br/>Pickup included

Montserrat Tour

What's included

Access to the Video Mapping (if option selected)

Local guide using Radio Guide System

Transportation on an air-conditioned coach

Tour operated in both Spanish and English

Access to the Basilica and the Black Madonna

Taste of 4 typical liquors of the area

Cog-wheel train up to Montserrat

Entrance to the audio-visual exhibition in Montserrat “Espai Audio visual Montserrat”

Detailed itinerary

Leave our office in Barcelona on an air-conditioned coach towards Montserrat cogwheel train station.

After a 1h drive on the highway, board the cogwheel train up the mountain and enjoy the amazing views over the area. Admire the Mountain’s peculiar morphology, which comes from the Catalan words Mont (mountain) and Serrat (serrated). World-famous for its rocky geography, Montserrat beautiful scenery was declared National Park in 1987 to protect its natural and cultural wealth.

Follow your local guide through the site and learn about the history and architectural style of the Monastery. A community of 80 monks currently lives and follow the rule of Saint Benedictin Montserrat. Fall in love with the Gothic and Renaissance details of the basilica and sanctuary.

Line up and learn about the legend of the miraculous apparition of the Black Madonna and Child in the cave of Santa Cova. To this day, their woodcarving is kept in the Church of the monastery, which you will be able to visit. The figure is popularly known as La Moreneta (The Black Madonna) as a result of a varnish reaction.

Stop 5

Besides the main area, there are a great number of small churches and trails you can follow. You will be given free time to taste the finest liquors, to visit the basilica and the Black Madonna and get a free gift, to shop for locally produced treats or to visit the audio-visual exhibition once our guided tour finishes. We would like to show you some activities that you can do during your free time. Please, bear in mind that your free time is limited so you will have to choose one of the activities. Montserrat Museum: wide variety of archeological artworks from medieval times to avant-garde style. Entrance fee not included on the tour. Hiking routes: although there are plenty of trails to follow, we recommend you to reach the cross of Sant Miquel (approximately 15 minutes from the monastery) as it offers one of the best views of the area.

Go back to Barcelona on an air-conditioned coach.

What's not included

Gratuities

Pick up & drop off not included (except if you choose the Private option tour)

Available languages

Audio guide

EN ES

Guide guide

EN ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.1

1,635 reviews

5★

796

4★

437

3★

197

2★

122

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

1,746 reviews

5★

1514

4★

154

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Duration 08:00AM Tour: 5h30min approx. Duration 10:15Am Tour: 7h approx. (The duration of the tour includes transportation).

Correct dress code is requested to enter the Basilica at Montserrat. It is not permitted to enter with tank tops, strapless shirts, short shorts or sandals.

Please note that the tour is conducted on foot upon your arrival in Montserrat, come prepared and we recommend wearing comfortable clothes and shoes.

The weather is mountainous. Depending on the season, you will need warm/rain clothing.

Check the schedules of the facilities you wish to visit during your free time before your tour.

Tour operated in both Spanish and English.

Meeting point

Please find the Julia Travel Office in Ground floor, Carrer d'Alí Bei, 80, 08018 Barcelona, Spain. It is mandatory to check-in in the counter and after we will go to platform 19

Important notes

* Duration 08:00AM Tour: 5 and a half hours (transportation included)
* Duration 10:15Am Tour: 7 hours (transportation included)
* Print your voucher and give it to your guide. E-voucher accepted.
* Please be at the meeting point 15 minutes before the tour begins.
* Contact for Julià Travel Gray Line Spain 0034 93 317 64 54 / incoming@julia.net
* Cancellation policy: a 100% cancellation penalty applies if cancelled 24 hours or less prior to the travel date or in case of no-show
* Failure to show up at the established check-in time may entail losing the tour.

About Barcelona

Barcelona is a vibrant city on the northeastern coast of Spain, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and lively atmosphere. It seamlessly blends medieval history with modernist masterpieces, making it a unique and appealing destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Sagrada Família

Antoni Gaudí's unfinished masterpiece, a stunning basilica that combines Gothic and Art Nouveau forms. It's a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit.

Architecture 1.5-2.5 hours €26-€34 (depending on access to towers)

Park Güell

Another Gaudí masterpiece, this park features colorful mosaics, whimsical structures, and beautiful city views.

Architecture 1.5-2 hours €10 (Monumental Zone)

La Rambla

A famous pedestrian street filled with shops, restaurants, street performers, and the famous La Boqueria market.

Street 1-2 hours Free (shopping and dining costs vary)

Casa Batlló

A unique building designed by Gaudí, known for its surrealist design and colorful façade.

Architecture 1 hour €35-€45 (depending on the tour)

Gothic Quarter

The historic heart of Barcelona, filled with medieval streets, ancient buildings, and hidden plazas.

Historical 2-3 hours Free (some attractions may have entry fees)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Pa amb tomàquet

Bread rubbed with tomato, garlic, and olive oil, often served as an appetizer.

Snack Vegetarian

Fideuà

A paella-like dish made with short, thin noodles, seafood, and saffron.

Main Course Contains seafood

Crema Catalana

A Catalan version of crème brûlée, made with egg yolks, sugar, and cinnamon.

Dessert Vegetarian

Patatas Bravas

Fried potato cubes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and garlic aioli.

Snack Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Montserrat Water sports in Barceloneta Rock climbing Beach lounging in Barceloneta Spa treatments Strolling through parks and gardens Visiting museums and galleries Attending festivals and events

Best Time to Visit

May to June, September to October

The peak season offers pleasant weather and is ideal for exploring the city's attractions. The crowds are manageable, and the city is vibrant with festivals and events.

20°C to 28°C 68°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Catalan, Spanish
Widely spoken: English, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+1 (CET), GMT+2 (CEST during daylight saving time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Barcelona is generally safe, but like any major city, it has its share of petty crime and scams. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation.
• Keep an eye on your belongings, especially in touristy areas and on public transportation.
• Be cautious of fake petitions or distractions to steal from you.

Getting there

By air

Barcelona-El Prat Airport • 12 km from city center

By train

Sants Station, Estació de França

By bus

Estació d'Autobusos Sants, Estació d'Autobusos Nord

Getting around

Public transport

The metro system is efficient, clean, and covers most of the city. It's a great way to get around quickly and affordably.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Free Now, Cabify

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Eixample Gràcia Barceloneta Gothic Quarter El Raval

Day trips

Montserrat

50 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A stunning mountain range with a historic monastery, offering hiking, scenic views, and religious sites.

Girona

100 km from Barcelona • Full day

A charming medieval city with a well-preserved Jewish Quarter, a stunning cathedral, and a rich history.

Sitges

40 km from Barcelona • Half day to full day

A picturesque coastal town known for its beaches, nightlife, and historic sites.

Festivals

La Mercè Festival • Late September Sant Jordi • April 23 Festa Major de Gràcia • Mid-August

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions like the Sagrada Família and Park Güell early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the city's neighborhoods on foot or by bike to discover hidden gems and local culture.
Try local specialties like pa amb tomàquet, fideuà, and crema catalana at local markets and restaurants.
Use the T-Casual pass for unlimited travel on public transportation, which is more cost-effective than single tickets.
Be cautious of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation, and keep an eye on your belongings.