Costa Brava & Barcelona: Girona & Montserrat
This wonderful escorted tour is designed for Irish holidaymakers looking to experience the perfect blend of Mediterranean relaxation and rich cultural heritage. Based in the welcoming coastal town of Pineda de Mar, this 7-night holiday provides an excellent base for exploring the very best that Catalonia has to offer. From the architectural wonders of Barcelona to the sacred mountain heights of Montserrat, every day offers a new discovery. This region is famous for its rugged beauty and historic depth, and we have carefully organised this itinerary to ensure you see the most significant sights while still enjoying the laid-back pace of a seaside escape.
A major highlight of this Costa Brava tour is our dedicated day in Barcelona. You will have the opportunity to stand before the mesmerising exterior of Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and wander through the atmospheric Gothic Quarter, where centuries of history are etched into the stone walls. Our guided excursions also take you further afield to discover the Roman ruins of Tarragona and the colourful riverside houses of Girona. We have also included authentic local experiences, such as a Cava tasting at the famous Freixenet winery and a rack railway journey up to the stunning Montserrat Monastery, where you can see the revered Black Madonna.
At Travel Escapes, we understand that value is just as important as the experience itself. That is why this tour includes return flights, airport transfers, and half-board accommodation as standard. With two full leisure days, you have the flexibility to unwind on the beach, explore local markets, or simply enjoy a coffee overlooking the azure waters of the Mediterranean. For those with a passion for art, the optional visit to the Dalí Museum in Figueres provides a fascinating insight into one of the 20th century’s most unique minds. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of fine landscapes, or simply looking for a well-organised group holiday with like-minded travellers, this Catalan adventure offers a straightforward and rewarding way to see the best of Spain.
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Do I need a visa to travel to Spain?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights from Ireland to Barcelona or Girona including taxes and transfers
- 7 nights accommodation in the coastal town of Pineda de Mar
- Half-board basis, 7 breakfasts and 7 evening meals
- Full day guided tour of Barcelona including the Sagrada Família exterior and the Gothic Quarter
- Morning visit to Freixenet Winery for a Cava tasting experience
- Afternoon guided tour of historic Tarragona and its Roman heritage
- Half day excursion to Montserrat including a rack railway journey and monastery visit
- Guided tour of Girona including entrance to Girona Cathedral
- Visit to the seaside town of Tossa de Mar with a tourist train ride to the lighthouse
- Expert local guide assistance throughout the trip
Itinerary
1Arrival on the Costa Brava+
Your journey begins with a flight from Ireland to Catalonia. On arrival, you will be met by a local guide and transferred to your hotel in the charming seaside town of Pineda de Mar. Once checked in, you will have the rest of the day to relax, stroll along the sandy beach, or explore your new surroundings at your own pace before dinner.
2Guided Barcelona and Costa Brava Tour+
Today features a full-day excursion to Barcelona, the vibrant capital of Catalonia. The day starts with a visit to the exterior of Gaudí’s incredible Sagrada Família. You will then enjoy a panoramic coach tour through the city, passing iconic landmarks and heading up Montjuïc for stunning views. Later, a guided walk takes you through the world-famous Las Ramblas and the narrow, historic streets of the Gothic Quarter, including a view of Barcelona Cathedral.
3Cava Tasting and Roman Tarragona+
This morning, we travel to the renowned Freixenet Winery to learn about the region's Cava-making traditions and enjoy a tasting of the local sparkling wine. In the afternoon, the tour continues to Tarragona. Here, your guide will introduce you to the city’s impressive Roman heritage, where you will see the ancient walls, the Roman Circus, and the impressive amphitheatre overlooking the Mediterranean.
4Leisure Time in Pineda de Mar+
A full day is yours to enjoy the relaxed pace of the Costa Brava. You might choose to relax by the hotel pool, browse the local shops in Pineda de Mar, or enjoy a coffee at a seafront café. Your guide will be available to provide recommendations for independent exploration of the nearby coastal villages.
5The Mountain Monastery of Montserrat+
We travel to Olesa de Montserrat to board the rack railway for a scenic ascent to the Montserrat Monastery. This historic Benedictine site is set among dramatic mountain peaks. Our visit includes entry to the Montserrat Museum, time in the Basilica to see the Black Madonna, and a tasting of traditional sweet wine and local Catalan cake before returning to the hotel.
6Historic Girona and Tossa de Mar+
The morning is dedicated to Girona, where we explore the colourful old town, the historic Jewish Quarter, and the ancient city walls. Entry to the magnificent Girona Cathedral is included. In the afternoon, we visit Tossa de Mar, a beautiful coastal town where we board a tourist train for a journey up to the lighthouse to enjoy panoramic views of the rugged coastline.
7Free Day or Optional Dalí Museum Visit+
Spend your final full day relaxing on the beach or revisiting your favourite local spots. Alternatively, you can join an optional excursion to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. This optional trip includes a visit to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of paintings and sculptures by the famous surrealist artist.
8Return to Ireland+
After breakfast, we bid farewell to the Costa Brava. You will be transferred to the airport with guide assistance for your return flight home to Ireland.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 11 Mar 2027 | Twin | €1,149 Promo: €1,029 | Enquire Now |
| 15 Apr 2027 | Twin | €1,099 Promo: €1,039 | Enquire Now |
| 20 May 2027 | Twin | €1,099 | Enquire Now |
| 27 May 2027 | Twin | €1,149 | Enquire Now |
| 03 Jun 2027 | Twin | €1,179 | Enquire Now |
| 06 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,379 | Enquire Now |
| 20 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,159 | Enquire Now |
| 27 Sep 2027 | Twin | €1,149 | Enquire Now |
| 04 Oct 2027 | Twin | €1,149 Promo: €1,019 | Enquire Now |
| 21 Oct 2027 | Twin | €1,249 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: TD
