Barcelona Turisme - Afternoon in Montserrat Tour
Barcelona Turisme - Afternoon in Montserrat Tour
Barcelona Turisme - Afternoon in Montserrat Tour
4.5
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Montserrat offers a rich and varied landscape: a unique natural park, one of Spain's foremost museums and the site of the shrine dedicated to the Virgin of Montserrat, a Black Madonna.
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Barcelona Turisme - Afternoon in Montserrat Tour
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koeslap
Carleton Place, Ontario20 contributions
Feb 2020
The tour left on time and was in Spanish and English. The drive along the mountainside was beautiful but for someone not crazy about heights I kept my gaze averted at times. We stopped and took the train up part of the way and returned the whole way by bus. The views were incredible. The Black Madonna was beautiful. More time would have allowed us to do the 35 minute hike to see the 14 sculptures...but by the time we got the overview by the guide we wanted to see the Black Madonna first and didn't feel we had enough time afterwards.Gift shops were nice.
Written February 23, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Wtraveler
Shaker Heights, OH124 contributions
I did Montserrat using public transportation. I bought a "Tot Montserrat". Basically, it is a ticket that includes a return metro ticket to Placa Espana where the train departs every hour starting st 8 : 36 am. The same ticket is used to board R5, the train to Montserrat that takes about an hour. The ticket also includes either a cable car from train station near Montserrat to the top or a rack train. If you got a Tot Montserrat with cable car option, your station is Aeri de Montserrat but if you purchased it with rack train, you descend at Monistrol. This is very important since when you reach Monistrol, the rack train is waiting and there is no way you can switch from cable car option to the rack train one. The trip to the top takes around 15 min with the train.Very scenic. Once there, get a map from information desk. The ticket included unlimited trip on 2 funiculars, the museum. Audiovisual demo and a lunch. I started with the funicular to San Joan. It runs every 20 min. Once there, a 15 min hike was very scenic. Total time, 40 min. Then I took the funicular to the cove. The hike was easy to moderate but it offered very interesting statues on the way to the chapel. Also timed to 40 min. Then off to the museum which was very interesting with paintings of Renoir, Monet, Picasso and many others. The monastery was visited last. The line on the left is to see the black Virgin! Nice! The well deserved lunch consisted of 3 course meal and a drink. I caught the return rack train " at 2:15 and then the train at 14:40. I loved the fact that with the card, I did not have to pay for anything. And an advice, be very cautious in Placa espana. Pick pockets target tourist at the ticket booth. Buy your ticket in.advance. It saves a lot of time in a tight morning.
Written November 22, 2012
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
KMAnonymous
Salisbury, UK316 contributions
Dec 2014 • Friends
We had been to Montserrat a few years ago and as we were travelling with friends and family this time, we just had to return for them to see this wonderful site. You can book lots of organised trips to go and see the Monastery but they tend to combine Montserrat with wine-tasting or just a half-day tour which really isn’t enough.
Therefore, I would strongly recommend doing this visit yourself as it is easy to do. We were staying in central Barcelona and headed towards Plaça Espanya rail station. Upon arriving, head towards R5 (Plaça España is a massive station so allow plenty of time to find this as it is a bit tricky to locate!).
Once you get there, there are automated ticket booths and plenty of people on hand to show you how to use them. You can select single or return, adult, children or senior citizen tickets BUT, please ensure that when you are selecting your ticket, you choose the correct type – going up you can go by Cable Car (Aeri) or by Rack Railway (Cremallera). These tickets are not inter-changeable so if you pick the wrong one, you are stuck with it.
We decided to go by Cable Car and the journey time from Plaça España to the Aeri Montserrat (at the foot of the mountain) took about an hour. I think if you take the Rack Railway it’s another 5-10 minutes.
It takes approximately 5 minutes to ascend to the top of the mountain in the Cable Car and you have amazing views all the way up. The lift holds about 30 people and is a smooth ride all the way.
Once there, you are greeted by a sizeable café (which is a welcome sight as there are no refreshments on the train). The café sells everything you would expect, a good variety of food (hot and cold) cakes and pastries and hot and cold drinks including beer.
After our refreshments, we walked the outer perimeter and found some stalls selling local produce (honey, jams, alcohol, cheese and more). We bought some of the local tipple (Crema Catalunya which is similar to Baileys but with a Crème Brulee taste – delicious)!! The lady who served us was extremely generous with her taster measures and gave us about 4 or 5 different varieties of the local liquor to try.
From there, we retraced our steps and then went to the Monastery itself. Upon arrival there was a service going on so we could only stand in the foyer but the interior we could see was awe-inspiring so we made note of when the service was due to finish and decided to return afterwards.
We then explored the surrounding area and took a few of the shorter walks (there are lots of signposted routes you can take, you could actually spend a couple of days exploring if you liked walking).
After we had taken lots of photographs and explored some of the mountain, we headed back down to return to the Monastery. It really was amazing and the lamps and paintings were beautiful. There was also a corridor to the side/rear of the Monastery where people lit candles and dedicated thoughts to their lost loved ones, this was an emotional and thought provoking sight and one which will stay with us long after we leave Montserrat.
Once we had explored here, half of our group decided to take the funicular ride to the top of the mountain (there was an additional charge for this which I think was about 9 Euros - there is a reduction for pensioners). This was well worth doing and afforded us more exceptional views and photo opportunities. The aerial view of the monastery really gave us an appreciation of its size and location.
Before we left, we visited the gift shop (we noticed that the Crema Catalunya was more expensive here and they charged 1.5 Euros to taste it!!). We then headed back towards the Cable Car and our descent back to the station.
Please note, the trains back are typically every hour and there is NOTHING at the station so try to coincide your cable car down the mountain with the expected train arrival time (allowing time for the fact that you might not be able to get on the first cable-car due to the amount of other passengers who want to go at the same time). If you should find you miss your train, all is not lost!! Walk to the end of the platform and follow the signs for a ‘bar’. There you will meet a wonderfully friendly bunch in a make-shift bar/pub which is more like a converted shed and outhouse! The prices are extremely reasonable it is cosy and warm inside and the food looked amazing and home-made – we didn’t order any food (just drinks) but all of the plates were going back to the kitchen - empty!!
All in all, this is an absolute MUST if you are in Barcelona. It is east to get there on your own and we left on the 8.30am train from Plaça España and returned on the 3.40pm train from Montserrat. It really was a fantastic day and although it was December, we had fantastic weather with bright blue skies and picture-postcard views. I would recommend though that you don’t make this trip if the weather is not favourable as the location is very exposed and there is not a lot of shelter from the wind/rain and it would be a shame if you couldn’t experience the views and walks to the full.
Therefore, I would strongly recommend doing this visit yourself as it is easy to do. We were staying in central Barcelona and headed towards Plaça Espanya rail station. Upon arriving, head towards R5 (Plaça España is a massive station so allow plenty of time to find this as it is a bit tricky to locate!).
Once you get there, there are automated ticket booths and plenty of people on hand to show you how to use them. You can select single or return, adult, children or senior citizen tickets BUT, please ensure that when you are selecting your ticket, you choose the correct type – going up you can go by Cable Car (Aeri) or by Rack Railway (Cremallera). These tickets are not inter-changeable so if you pick the wrong one, you are stuck with it.
We decided to go by Cable Car and the journey time from Plaça España to the Aeri Montserrat (at the foot of the mountain) took about an hour. I think if you take the Rack Railway it’s another 5-10 minutes.
It takes approximately 5 minutes to ascend to the top of the mountain in the Cable Car and you have amazing views all the way up. The lift holds about 30 people and is a smooth ride all the way.
Once there, you are greeted by a sizeable café (which is a welcome sight as there are no refreshments on the train). The café sells everything you would expect, a good variety of food (hot and cold) cakes and pastries and hot and cold drinks including beer.
After our refreshments, we walked the outer perimeter and found some stalls selling local produce (honey, jams, alcohol, cheese and more). We bought some of the local tipple (Crema Catalunya which is similar to Baileys but with a Crème Brulee taste – delicious)!! The lady who served us was extremely generous with her taster measures and gave us about 4 or 5 different varieties of the local liquor to try.
From there, we retraced our steps and then went to the Monastery itself. Upon arrival there was a service going on so we could only stand in the foyer but the interior we could see was awe-inspiring so we made note of when the service was due to finish and decided to return afterwards.
We then explored the surrounding area and took a few of the shorter walks (there are lots of signposted routes you can take, you could actually spend a couple of days exploring if you liked walking).
After we had taken lots of photographs and explored some of the mountain, we headed back down to return to the Monastery. It really was amazing and the lamps and paintings were beautiful. There was also a corridor to the side/rear of the Monastery where people lit candles and dedicated thoughts to their lost loved ones, this was an emotional and thought provoking sight and one which will stay with us long after we leave Montserrat.
Once we had explored here, half of our group decided to take the funicular ride to the top of the mountain (there was an additional charge for this which I think was about 9 Euros - there is a reduction for pensioners). This was well worth doing and afforded us more exceptional views and photo opportunities. The aerial view of the monastery really gave us an appreciation of its size and location.
Before we left, we visited the gift shop (we noticed that the Crema Catalunya was more expensive here and they charged 1.5 Euros to taste it!!). We then headed back towards the Cable Car and our descent back to the station.
Please note, the trains back are typically every hour and there is NOTHING at the station so try to coincide your cable car down the mountain with the expected train arrival time (allowing time for the fact that you might not be able to get on the first cable-car due to the amount of other passengers who want to go at the same time). If you should find you miss your train, all is not lost!! Walk to the end of the platform and follow the signs for a ‘bar’. There you will meet a wonderfully friendly bunch in a make-shift bar/pub which is more like a converted shed and outhouse! The prices are extremely reasonable it is cosy and warm inside and the food looked amazing and home-made – we didn’t order any food (just drinks) but all of the plates were going back to the kitchen - empty!!
All in all, this is an absolute MUST if you are in Barcelona. It is east to get there on your own and we left on the 8.30am train from Plaça España and returned on the 3.40pm train from Montserrat. It really was a fantastic day and although it was December, we had fantastic weather with bright blue skies and picture-postcard views. I would recommend though that you don’t make this trip if the weather is not favourable as the location is very exposed and there is not a lot of shelter from the wind/rain and it would be a shame if you couldn’t experience the views and walks to the full.
Written December 16, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MindaugasLT
Vilnius, Lithuania732 contributions
Jul 2014 • Couples
Montserrat is a MUST VISIT, when you are in Barcelona. It was one of the best experiences when we visited Spain. IT IS REALLY FANTASTIC PLACE! I suggest you don’t buy this tour, but organise trip by yourself. It’s really very easy. In the early morning, check the weather by online webcam: http://www.montserratvisita.com/en/organize-the-visit/useful-information/webcam. If it is nice, get into comfortable shoes and go to Placa Espanya metro station in the morning, you’ll find there signs pointing to FGC, “Montserrat” (or ask someone). You’ll need to find R5 Manresa train. Find R5 schedule in http://www.fgc.cat/eng/cercador.asp - Line “Llobregat - Anoia”, departure station is Pl. Espanya, and arrival - Aeri de Montserrat (if you are using cable car to get to the mountain). Don’t go to station too early, because Montserrat cable car is opening in 9:40 am. Best time to leave Barcelona – 8:36 am. You’ll find the Cable Car schedule here - https://www.aeridemontserrat.com/en/timetable-fares/.
In the R5 station you’ll find the kiosk and ticket machine selling Montserrat tickets. I suggest you to buy TRANS MONTSERRAT ticket (Includes train + underground + rack train + funiculars + audiovisual show), TOT MONTSERRAT ticket is a bit more expensive (Includes train + underground + rack train + funiculars + museum + lunch + audiovisual show). But I heard that lunch is really below the average… You can find all prices and details in https://www.fgc.cat/eng/bitllets_oci_turisme.asp . I suggest you to buy ticket TRANS MONTSERRAT AERI ticket with Cable car – you’ll get nice experience to get up into mountain :) Here you can find all information how to organise your Train Journey: http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/tour/barcelona-montserrat.html and http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/en/transport/barcelona-to-montserrat-train.html
When you’ll be in Montserrat, first thing you must do is to see famous Black Madonna in in the basilica. Better to do it in the morning, because there are big lines in the afternoon, and it is closed in the time of masses. After that, I suggest you to visit masses in Basilica. And of course- to listen to the famous Basilica choir boy. The performances can be heard free of charge in the Basilica at 13:00 daily with the exception of Christmas holidays, July and some other festive periods during the year. And of course – you must visit Santa Cova and Sant Joan Funicular. If you’ll have TRANS MONTSERRAT, both railway tickets would be free for you. Believe me, its’ really worth to visit Both: pilgrim site, Santa Cova, where an image of the Virgin Mary is believed to have been seen and Sant Joan Funicular - it offers a spectacular panoramic view of Montserrat mountain, 1000 m above sea level. The viewpoint offers a bird’s-eye view of the monastery as well as spectacular views of the surrounding area and the Pyrenees. Here’s more about both places: http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/en/activities/walks-in-montserrat.html
Some advices: Montserrat is worth an entire day. Try to go on a nice day. Get to Plaça Espanya early - the train has lots of standing room but not many seats. You don't want to stand the entire trip. Check the R5 return schedule (https://www.aeridemontserrat.com/en/timetable-fares/) and take down with the cable car 10-15 minutes until arrives R5 – you won’t need to wait train in station for an hour. Check the last run times for funiculars, rack railway, and cable car. You do NOT want to be stranded! Museum of Montserrat is not a must-see; but it has some nice paintings. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and dress in layers; esp if you plan to hike. Also bring water & power bar for the hikes.
You’ll find the map of Monastery here: http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/en/maps/map-of-montserrat.html. All information and history of attractions you’ll find in this page: http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/ . Some tips: http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/day-trip-to-montserrat-any-tips.cfm And always check the official tourism site for the latest news: http://www.montserratvisita.com/en/index.html
In the R5 station you’ll find the kiosk and ticket machine selling Montserrat tickets. I suggest you to buy TRANS MONTSERRAT ticket (Includes train + underground + rack train + funiculars + audiovisual show), TOT MONTSERRAT ticket is a bit more expensive (Includes train + underground + rack train + funiculars + museum + lunch + audiovisual show). But I heard that lunch is really below the average… You can find all prices and details in https://www.fgc.cat/eng/bitllets_oci_turisme.asp . I suggest you to buy ticket TRANS MONTSERRAT AERI ticket with Cable car – you’ll get nice experience to get up into mountain :) Here you can find all information how to organise your Train Journey: http://www.barcelona-tourist-guide.com/en/tour/barcelona-montserrat.html and http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/en/transport/barcelona-to-montserrat-train.html
When you’ll be in Montserrat, first thing you must do is to see famous Black Madonna in in the basilica. Better to do it in the morning, because there are big lines in the afternoon, and it is closed in the time of masses. After that, I suggest you to visit masses in Basilica. And of course- to listen to the famous Basilica choir boy. The performances can be heard free of charge in the Basilica at 13:00 daily with the exception of Christmas holidays, July and some other festive periods during the year. And of course – you must visit Santa Cova and Sant Joan Funicular. If you’ll have TRANS MONTSERRAT, both railway tickets would be free for you. Believe me, its’ really worth to visit Both: pilgrim site, Santa Cova, where an image of the Virgin Mary is believed to have been seen and Sant Joan Funicular - it offers a spectacular panoramic view of Montserrat mountain, 1000 m above sea level. The viewpoint offers a bird’s-eye view of the monastery as well as spectacular views of the surrounding area and the Pyrenees. Here’s more about both places: http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/en/activities/walks-in-montserrat.html
Some advices: Montserrat is worth an entire day. Try to go on a nice day. Get to Plaça Espanya early - the train has lots of standing room but not many seats. You don't want to stand the entire trip. Check the R5 return schedule (https://www.aeridemontserrat.com/en/timetable-fares/) and take down with the cable car 10-15 minutes until arrives R5 – you won’t need to wait train in station for an hour. Check the last run times for funiculars, rack railway, and cable car. You do NOT want to be stranded! Museum of Montserrat is not a must-see; but it has some nice paintings. Wear comfortable shoes. Bring a hat, sunscreen, and dress in layers; esp if you plan to hike. Also bring water & power bar for the hikes.
You’ll find the map of Monastery here: http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/en/maps/map-of-montserrat.html. All information and history of attractions you’ll find in this page: http://www.montserrat-tourist-guide.com/ . Some tips: http://www.fodors.com/community/europe/day-trip-to-montserrat-any-tips.cfm And always check the official tourism site for the latest news: http://www.montserratvisita.com/en/index.html
Written May 30, 2015
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SkiingCyclingDave
Stockholm, Sweden451 contributions
Mar 2014 • Couples
Montserrat is a must see for anyone visiting Catalonia. The Benedictine Abbey and fantastic mountain are unique and worth a trip.
Best way to get there is by train. Take the Metro to Placa Espanya. There are signs through the station directing you to the FGC train to Montserrat. Its the Manresa train. Tickets are sold in the FGC concourse there at Espanya or at Catalunya. They actually cover the metro as well for the rest of the day. Best to buy the Cremellaras option that includes the Funiculars at Montserrat for 27euros. There is also an option with lunch for 42 euros. Train is about 1 hour journey to Monistrol de Montserrat and leaves every hour. Best to catch the 8:85 or 9:35 to ensure you have enough time to see things. There are 2 options to reach Montserrat Abbey and the Mountain from the train. The first stop takes a cable car up (from Aeri de Montserrat, runs every 15 minutes.. this is an extra charge). The second stop takes the rack railway up from Monistrol de Montserrat. The train connects to the rack railway on the same platform and takes 23 minutes. If you drive, best to park at Monistrol (the second stop on the rack railway has a big parking lot) and take the rack railway up as there is not much parking at the top so you might be in for a long walk. Overall it takes 90 minutes from Espanya by train to reach the Abbey.
At the top you have a lot of choice... really you could spend 2 or 3 days there. As there are the sights associated with the Abbey, shrines etc. and then there is the great outdoors with lots of spectacular hikes. You should definitely ride the 2 Funiculars, one to a key shrine and the other to the mountain top. Hikes range from 1 hour to all day and are well worth it. All are well maintained and doable by the whole family.. take both water and a coat as it can get quite hot, but also chilly in March as its exposed. The mountain stands separate from the rest of the nearby hills so the views are tremendous in all directions. There is a good cafeteria for food and plenty of facilities. The Basilica is spectacular and the shrines peaceful.
When you left Espanya station they will have given you a timetable for the return which is every hour and the latest varies by season but is typically 18:15, 19:15 or in full season 20:15.
A must see -> Highly recommended!
Best way to get there is by train. Take the Metro to Placa Espanya. There are signs through the station directing you to the FGC train to Montserrat. Its the Manresa train. Tickets are sold in the FGC concourse there at Espanya or at Catalunya. They actually cover the metro as well for the rest of the day. Best to buy the Cremellaras option that includes the Funiculars at Montserrat for 27euros. There is also an option with lunch for 42 euros. Train is about 1 hour journey to Monistrol de Montserrat and leaves every hour. Best to catch the 8:85 or 9:35 to ensure you have enough time to see things. There are 2 options to reach Montserrat Abbey and the Mountain from the train. The first stop takes a cable car up (from Aeri de Montserrat, runs every 15 minutes.. this is an extra charge). The second stop takes the rack railway up from Monistrol de Montserrat. The train connects to the rack railway on the same platform and takes 23 minutes. If you drive, best to park at Monistrol (the second stop on the rack railway has a big parking lot) and take the rack railway up as there is not much parking at the top so you might be in for a long walk. Overall it takes 90 minutes from Espanya by train to reach the Abbey.
At the top you have a lot of choice... really you could spend 2 or 3 days there. As there are the sights associated with the Abbey, shrines etc. and then there is the great outdoors with lots of spectacular hikes. You should definitely ride the 2 Funiculars, one to a key shrine and the other to the mountain top. Hikes range from 1 hour to all day and are well worth it. All are well maintained and doable by the whole family.. take both water and a coat as it can get quite hot, but also chilly in March as its exposed. The mountain stands separate from the rest of the nearby hills so the views are tremendous in all directions. There is a good cafeteria for food and plenty of facilities. The Basilica is spectacular and the shrines peaceful.
When you left Espanya station they will have given you a timetable for the return which is every hour and the latest varies by season but is typically 18:15, 19:15 or in full season 20:15.
A must see -> Highly recommended!
Written March 8, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marie S
Boston, Massachusetts, United States12 contributions
Nov 2015 • Friends
We took the train from Barcelona (Plaza Espana) to Montserrat. The ticket that we bought includes the train, cable car, and 2 rides on the funicular which will take you to a higher point on the mountain or a lower point. It takes about an hour by train, and the ride is lovely, not boring at all. The cable car is located right at the train station, and takes you to where the monastery, cafeteria and shops are. It was beautiful, with amazing views. If you're apprehensive about going up the side of a mountain in a cable car, there is a train that will take you there also. By going on our own, we were able to spend as much time as we wanted.
Written January 23, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ttaf
Rochester Hills, MI65 contributions
Aug 2014 • Family
We went there early in the morning and I think the timing was perfect. The place is beautiful and it evokes a wonderful feeling of serenity and sanctity. It is much cooler (in Aug it was quite chilly up there) than in Barcelona, so dress appropriately.
Getting around:
- At the Catalunya station, you can buy to and fro tickets from the kiosk next to the platform. The station has clear signs of Montserrat platform. You can select return train + Funicular tickets.
-Train leaves promptly at 7:36am. Catch the 8:48 rack rail(as you get off, follow the crowd to the funicular stop.) which takes you up to the monastery, arriving about 9:08. If you want to take the cable car, you need to get off at the previous train stop. This selection must be made while buying the tickets.
- As you get off, head to the Monastery and then line up to see the Black Madonna. This line is small in the mornings. Later in the day we saw very long lines to this.
- Once you exit the Monastery, you can do the audiovisual presentation (explains about Montserrat) and displays (ask anyone there and they will direct you it)
- After this, you can take the Sant Joan funicular. This again has long lines later in the day and is the popular one. Once you go up, you can trek up the mountains. The pathways are steep.
- Once you return, you can have lunch at the cafe shops or restaurant (which I believe needs to be booked ahead since we were turned down with no reservation). If you are before 1pm, head to the Monastery for the choir at 1pm (this is not there in Aug during summer vacation)
- Following lunch, you can take the Santa Cova funicular. This is a must as this takes you to the actual place where Mother Mary appeared to the shepherd kids. I liked this place than the Sant Joan funicular. There are many stations along the way. The funicular to this takes you down whereas Sant Joan takes you up the mountains. The funicular runs once in 20mins. Check the times. The last one heading back is at 4pm I think. The trek to the cave/chapel 40mins trek is about 40mins. The path is steep...watch your kids. We had a young one who could trek along fine but we were very cautious.
- On your return, take the funicular to the train station. There will be a connecting train to Barcelona. If you don't get to sit, prepare to stand the entire way back. We returned around 5pm to Barcelona. So prepare for an entire day to this place.
Getting around:
- At the Catalunya station, you can buy to and fro tickets from the kiosk next to the platform. The station has clear signs of Montserrat platform. You can select return train + Funicular tickets.
-Train leaves promptly at 7:36am. Catch the 8:48 rack rail(as you get off, follow the crowd to the funicular stop.) which takes you up to the monastery, arriving about 9:08. If you want to take the cable car, you need to get off at the previous train stop. This selection must be made while buying the tickets.
- As you get off, head to the Monastery and then line up to see the Black Madonna. This line is small in the mornings. Later in the day we saw very long lines to this.
- Once you exit the Monastery, you can do the audiovisual presentation (explains about Montserrat) and displays (ask anyone there and they will direct you it)
- After this, you can take the Sant Joan funicular. This again has long lines later in the day and is the popular one. Once you go up, you can trek up the mountains. The pathways are steep.
- Once you return, you can have lunch at the cafe shops or restaurant (which I believe needs to be booked ahead since we were turned down with no reservation). If you are before 1pm, head to the Monastery for the choir at 1pm (this is not there in Aug during summer vacation)
- Following lunch, you can take the Santa Cova funicular. This is a must as this takes you to the actual place where Mother Mary appeared to the shepherd kids. I liked this place than the Sant Joan funicular. There are many stations along the way. The funicular to this takes you down whereas Sant Joan takes you up the mountains. The funicular runs once in 20mins. Check the times. The last one heading back is at 4pm I think. The trek to the cave/chapel 40mins trek is about 40mins. The path is steep...watch your kids. We had a young one who could trek along fine but we were very cautious.
- On your return, take the funicular to the train station. There will be a connecting train to Barcelona. If you don't get to sit, prepare to stand the entire way back. We returned around 5pm to Barcelona. So prepare for an entire day to this place.
Written August 28, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Edwin R
The Hague, The Netherlands86 contributions
Mar 2014 • Couples
We took the train and both the aerial cable car and train from the railway station up to Montserrat. The cable car was by far the fun way to go and fastest way too! Great ride with incredible views up to the top- but definitely something not for the faint of heart if fear of heights is something you suffer from.
We arrived in time to hear the church bells calling people to the chapel for service and performance of the boy's choir. The sound of the bells ringing off the nearby mountain and rock cliffs was incredible- truly something to try and hear while you are there.
Lots of trails to take so be sure to go early to get to walk around. The sound of the boys choir was great and I'd recommend making it for their afternoon or evening performances.
We didn't visit the smaller chapels with the funicular as it was out of service during our visit.
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We arrived in time to hear the church bells calling people to the chapel for service and performance of the boy's choir. The sound of the bells ringing off the nearby mountain and rock cliffs was incredible- truly something to try and hear while you are there.
Lots of trails to take so be sure to go early to get to walk around. The sound of the boys choir was great and I'd recommend making it for their afternoon or evening performances.
We didn't visit the smaller chapels with the funicular as it was out of service during our visit.
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Written March 28, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
piratenell
Barcelona, Spain18 contributions
Jan 2016 • Solo
If you have more than a weekend in Barcelona, Montserrat is a MUST. I take all my friends and family who come to visit, and it is unfailingly one of their highlights. It really has something for everyone, whether you are addicted to mountains or museums, hiking or eating.
Without wanting to come across as gushy or make you suspicious that this is a paid review, it is difficult to put into words what makes Montserrat such a magical, special place.
Firstly, it is roughly one hour from Barcelona, you take the train from Plaza Espana (which you can reach on the red or green metro lines), and you have the option to buy a combined ticket for the train to Monistrol at the bottom of the mountain, and for the cable car or cog train which takes you right to the Monastry. Alternately you can climb to the Monastry from Monistrol (around one hour, fairly easy walking, but walking shoes needed). What everyone will share however, is the moment when the train turns around a corner and you see the mountains of Monsterrat, their surreal rocky formation crisp in the sunlight, and the Monastry itself nestled high in their nooks.
Once in Monistrol, the disembarking passengers divide into hikers and eaters, the latter climbing directly into the cog train which is waiting to take them up. The former start their gentle hike, which begins by walking through the quaint little village of Monistrol. At this point it is recommended you buy any water and snacks you may need, as there will be nothing on the way! Once you reach the Monastry however, there is a big cafeteria, a couple of cafes, and every weekend there is a wonderful open air market where you can buy a range of local goats cheeses, chutneys or sweets, as presents to others or a mountain snack! Or you can be me and just shamelessly sample them all.
The Monastry itself is spectacular, with beautiful stained glass windows and an especially impressive altarpiece. What is most striking about this place however, is the setting itself. That this incredible example of architecture was built hundreds of years ago, and carried manually up a rocky mountain, is mind boggling. There is a reason why every year many Catalan people will make a pilgrimage-by foot!-from Barcelona to the Monastry of Montserrat. It is a very special place, with an atmosphere that is both spiritual and religious, and very calming.
Should you have the energy, i highly recommend that you continue to climb after visiting the Monastry, and follow one of the guided paths to the top of the mountain. You have many routes available, where you can see other small churches, sculptures, or go to the peak and see magnificant views stretching for miles around.
Without wanting to come across as gushy or make you suspicious that this is a paid review, it is difficult to put into words what makes Montserrat such a magical, special place.
Firstly, it is roughly one hour from Barcelona, you take the train from Plaza Espana (which you can reach on the red or green metro lines), and you have the option to buy a combined ticket for the train to Monistrol at the bottom of the mountain, and for the cable car or cog train which takes you right to the Monastry. Alternately you can climb to the Monastry from Monistrol (around one hour, fairly easy walking, but walking shoes needed). What everyone will share however, is the moment when the train turns around a corner and you see the mountains of Monsterrat, their surreal rocky formation crisp in the sunlight, and the Monastry itself nestled high in their nooks.
Once in Monistrol, the disembarking passengers divide into hikers and eaters, the latter climbing directly into the cog train which is waiting to take them up. The former start their gentle hike, which begins by walking through the quaint little village of Monistrol. At this point it is recommended you buy any water and snacks you may need, as there will be nothing on the way! Once you reach the Monastry however, there is a big cafeteria, a couple of cafes, and every weekend there is a wonderful open air market where you can buy a range of local goats cheeses, chutneys or sweets, as presents to others or a mountain snack! Or you can be me and just shamelessly sample them all.
The Monastry itself is spectacular, with beautiful stained glass windows and an especially impressive altarpiece. What is most striking about this place however, is the setting itself. That this incredible example of architecture was built hundreds of years ago, and carried manually up a rocky mountain, is mind boggling. There is a reason why every year many Catalan people will make a pilgrimage-by foot!-from Barcelona to the Monastry of Montserrat. It is a very special place, with an atmosphere that is both spiritual and religious, and very calming.
Should you have the energy, i highly recommend that you continue to climb after visiting the Monastry, and follow one of the guided paths to the top of the mountain. You have many routes available, where you can see other small churches, sculptures, or go to the peak and see magnificant views stretching for miles around.
Written January 15, 2016
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TheBlitz
Washington270 contributions
May 2014 • Family
I'm not sure why this category is called "Afternoon in Montserrat" since you can visit in the morning; there are guided tours that leave from Barcelona called Afternoon in Montserrat but the page now seems to reflect opinions about the whole experience and a variety of methods of getting there.
Just to chime in on that then, this is indeed an amazing place, a huge religious complex that dates back to a holy statue that history says was found in 808. So settlement here goes back aways!
Pros:
- It gets you into the scenery outside of Barcelona, both during the trip and then with the amazing view from a dramatically carved mountain.
- The 'getting there' is pretty cool. Even a lame transit user like me who read up on a couple of FAQs from the Internet could figure out how to buy the combined train/cable car ticket at the automated kiosks at the Espanya station. As a bonus, when you wait for a return train, you have the most amazing view anyone could want from the station, of the mountain and the Monastery complex. You can also take a guided tour, but it sounds like people often complain about how much time they get on the mountain. That's a real issue, because there's great stuff to see up on the mountain, but also some junk. You want to control where you spend your time IMHO.
- Read up first to make sure whether you want to take the cable car or a small train up to the mountain. We did the cable car, and found it stable and fun and short. This is one of those unique experiences that you go to Europe for in the first place.
- The church is awesome, and you get to touch a revered statue of Mary. I'm sure that experience is different for everyone, but for this recovering Catholic, there was a great sense of spirituality and history placed in the context of many centuries.
Cons:
- The Disneyland effect kicks in here in a couple of ways: food is expensive, though there's a lot of variety, which is great. In the gift store, they've got the Black Virgin statue on anything you can think of, from fine jewelry to household goods. If you're a believer and want a Black Virgin on a trivet or pen, that's great, but I can see why people who take guided trips up here might get a bit tired of spending too much time in the store.
- We got chased out of an exhibit on the monks themselves, apparently because you're supposed to know you have to pay. It was a bit unsettling, and my family outvoted me on paying because we had spent too much time at the temporarily gutted museum ...
- In the appropriate category, I already ripped the monastery for false advertising in its museum, which I would skip until the fine art returns. http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g187501-d2209735-r205413234-Montserrat_Museum-Montserrat_Catalonia.html#REVIEWS Spend the time instead walking around the complex, and instead of spending your standing time and foot energy on mediocre art, take advantage of the other attractions.
Overall, it was definitely a unique experience, a pilgrimage to history or for religion, or both.
Just to chime in on that then, this is indeed an amazing place, a huge religious complex that dates back to a holy statue that history says was found in 808. So settlement here goes back aways!
Pros:
- It gets you into the scenery outside of Barcelona, both during the trip and then with the amazing view from a dramatically carved mountain.
- The 'getting there' is pretty cool. Even a lame transit user like me who read up on a couple of FAQs from the Internet could figure out how to buy the combined train/cable car ticket at the automated kiosks at the Espanya station. As a bonus, when you wait for a return train, you have the most amazing view anyone could want from the station, of the mountain and the Monastery complex. You can also take a guided tour, but it sounds like people often complain about how much time they get on the mountain. That's a real issue, because there's great stuff to see up on the mountain, but also some junk. You want to control where you spend your time IMHO.
- Read up first to make sure whether you want to take the cable car or a small train up to the mountain. We did the cable car, and found it stable and fun and short. This is one of those unique experiences that you go to Europe for in the first place.
- The church is awesome, and you get to touch a revered statue of Mary. I'm sure that experience is different for everyone, but for this recovering Catholic, there was a great sense of spirituality and history placed in the context of many centuries.
Cons:
- The Disneyland effect kicks in here in a couple of ways: food is expensive, though there's a lot of variety, which is great. In the gift store, they've got the Black Virgin statue on anything you can think of, from fine jewelry to household goods. If you're a believer and want a Black Virgin on a trivet or pen, that's great, but I can see why people who take guided trips up here might get a bit tired of spending too much time in the store.
- We got chased out of an exhibit on the monks themselves, apparently because you're supposed to know you have to pay. It was a bit unsettling, and my family outvoted me on paying because we had spent too much time at the temporarily gutted museum ...
- In the appropriate category, I already ripped the monastery for false advertising in its museum, which I would skip until the fine art returns. http://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/ShowUserReviews-g187501-d2209735-r205413234-Montserrat_Museum-Montserrat_Catalonia.html#REVIEWS Spend the time instead walking around the complex, and instead of spending your standing time and foot energy on mediocre art, take advantage of the other attractions.
Overall, it was definitely a unique experience, a pilgrimage to history or for religion, or both.
Written May 15, 2014
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kmack112017
Lijiang, China4 contributions
I am taking a cruise and will be docked in port on a Friday. We have plans till 13:00 and don't leave port until 17:00, would that give us enough time to visit this? Should we join a tour or just take the trains/bus and visit by ourselves?
sousoucat
Cary, NC191 contributions
Train ride each way is one hour. Train leaves every hour. Too risky. However, it is a much better option than going to Gaudi church or even Picasso 's museum. All nice but this is special. Have a lovely trip!
cswgib
Glen Ellyn, IL6 contributions
We are arriving to Barcelona on 3/25. The weekend market sounds interesting, would it be worthwhile for us to visit on that first Saturday before Easter? I understand it is a holiday weekend, and things may be closed. Alternatively, could we visit on Monday 3/28?
Thank you!
Marie S
Boston, Massachusetts, United States12 contributions
I'm sorry, but I don't know anything about the weekend market. We were there for 2 nights during the week.
Blonditraveler
San Diego, CA130 contributions
Would the walking be easy for elderly people? Is there mass and where can I find times? is this a day trip from Barcelona? Meaning, do I need an entire day to comfortably see everything?
thanks!
900sara
Belleville, MI16 contributions
I think it would be okay for elderly persons if you know your arrangements in advance. We went with a tour guide who put us on the tram to go up and back down by car. If you don't have a guide you would probably have to go by tram both ways. You can walk around as much or as little as you want. There are a few street vendors selling cheese, honey, and cheesecakes. Also a cafeteria where there are bathrooms and a small gift shop. There are also a few benches and a few gift shops on the street, so take your time and rest if you need to do so. I don't know if there is mass, but I don't think so. We were there for half of the day.
Paris B
Greater London, UK
hello there! incredible pictures by the way. just a query about the steps of knowledge...how do i get there from the monastery? thanks for your help!
-Paris!
755lucky22
London, UK253 contributions
Hi
From memory, once you get to Montserrat on the cable car, there's a small funicular that takes you some of the way to the top of the mountain, the rest you have to do on foot. It's pretty steep, so wear walking shoes, but the views are incredible so it's worth the exercise.
hipstercyclist
Cirencester, UK20 contributions
Where is the best place to buy tickets for Montserrat?
malkum
Bonn, Germany83 contributions
which tickets do you mean..
you can buy them on site...
JamesTheH
Johannesburg, South Africa8 contributions
Hi.
Where can we catch a train to Montserrat from the city?
Can you walk up or do you need to take the cable car? Is there an additional cost?
Do you need to decide between the funiculars and the cable car?
Thanks
:j
Justin W
Chicago, IL1 contribution
Planning a visit to the monastery on Sept 11, Friday.
1. Do we have to buy tickets online for the entrance? If so, can you direct me where?
2. Will there be a boys choir that day? What time does it start?
3. Trans Montserrat (€ 26.60) and Tot Montserrat (€ 42.65) tickets at the Barcelona --- does that include entrance to monastery?
Netti S
Barcelona, Spain341 contributions
Hi,
1. Do we have to buy tickets online for the entrance? If so, can you direct me where?
look at: web:
montserratvisita
46.20 € is the price for all, BUT I would go for the train and the both funiculars, having a look around and spare 2 h for sure for the top - those mountains are really unique! And leave the Buffet Lunch - bring your own lunch ;-)
2. Will there be a boys choir that day? What time does it start?
You have to ask or look online, I am spending my time for hiking and climbing mainly.
I hope you will have a great time - sometimes, if the weather is good, you may see the sea!
roamingprofessor
Sault Ste. Marie494 contributions
I get tired walking and stop often. Do you think that this is an attraction that I should visit considering that I do need to stop often for a brief (2 minute) stop?
Kaylexa
Nashville, TN87 contributions
You should still go. There are some steps up to the church but if you take your time you will be fine.
Dee
Dublin, Ireland45 contributions
hi can we explore this mountain on our own or would a tour be recommended ,
Christinemayberry
Sydney, Australia130 contributions
Definitely explore it on your own. Do not need a tour. Everything is easily accessible and easy to wander around.