Medieval Three Villages Small Group Day Trip from Barcelona
5
Medieval Three Villages Small Group Day Trip from Barcelona
By Explore Catalunya
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About
Discover history hidden in medieval, countryside villages surrounding Barcelona during this full-day tour with guide and transportation from a central meeting point. Visit an ancient Jewish bath and medieval synagogue in Besalú, see castle ruins and the baroque church of Sant Miquel in Rupit, and savor Catalan cuisine over lunch (own expense). End the day with a view from the sandstone cliffs in Cingles de Tavertet.
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation
Ages 0-99, max of 20 per group
Duration: 10h 30m
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
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Highlights
- Guided day trip to scenic medieval villages in Catalonia
- Explore ancient buildings and views in Besalú, Rupit, and Tavertet
- Guide clues you in on the area's fascinating history, Jewish and gentile
- See Castellfollit de la Roca village, built on a basalt cliff’s edge
- Local guide
- Air-conditioned vehicle
What's not included- Gratuities
- Food and drinks, unless specified
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Meet your guide in the morning and board an air-conditioned vehicle for a full-day tour of the medieval villages surrounding Barcelona. After driving through the countryside, arrive in the village of Besalu to explore its history and architecture on foot. See the 12th-century Jewish bath and visit the medieval synagogue. Carry on to Castellfollit de la Roca to see a tiny town inhabited by 1,000 people and perched on the edge of a basalt cliff. Next, stop in Rupit to wander along stone streets and snap photos of 16th-century homes and baroque-era Church of Sant Miquel, and cross a hanging wooden bridge before a local lunch (your expense). Stand on the sandstone cliffs at Cingles de Tavertet overlooking the Ter River Valley, and visit the town’s 16th- and 17th-century preserved homes and 12th-century Church of Sant Cristòfol before returning to the departure point in Barcelona.
- Start:
- Explore Catalunya, C/ Palau de la Música, 1, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, SpainExplore Catalunya Office. We are located in a little alley between the Palau de la Música building and Via Laietana, opposite the Palau de la Música's cafeteria.
End:- Arc de Triomf, Ciutat Vella, 08018 Barcelona, Spain
- Not wheelchair accessible
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3142BCNMEDIEVAL- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This tour operates only in English
- This experience requires a minimum number of travellers. If it’s cancelled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 20 travellers
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
- If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 3142BCNMEDIEVAL
From
₹8,818.78
per adult
Select date and travellers
Similar experiences
Itinerary
- C/ Palau de la Música, 1, Ciutat Vella, 08003 Barcelona, SpainExplore Catalunya Office. We are located in a little alley between the Palau de la Música building and Via Laietana, opposite the Palau de la Música's cafeteria.
- 1Pass byEixample
- 2Pass byCastellfollit de la Roca
- 3
- 4Pass byMontsenyPlaza de Catalunya
- Arc de Triomf, Ciutat Vella, 08018 Barcelona, Spain
About the operator
Don’t take it from us – here’s what people have to say about this operator:
- spider20200 contributionsNot to be missed experienceRob was an amazing guide in our tour today as he not only showed us the incredible landscapes and towns but also expertly and humorously enlightened us about their history. Couldn’t have asked for a better experience to the Pyrenees because of him as well as the group with which I shared it.Written 7 November 2024
- kaneb3700 contributionsPyrenees mountain day trip from Barcelona.The trip was really insightful and fun. The tour guide Rod was very friendly and kind with a great understanding of everything he was showing us. I would highly recommend this trip and advise you to ask for Rod as your tour guide!Written 7 November 2024
- S6992TAsusanm0 contributionsFun day trip out of BarcelonaI really enjoyed this day trip out of Barcelona. It was a small, friendly group and our guide was very informative. If you want a day away from the city, this is a perfect trip.Written 7 November 2024
- 559summerw0 contributionsThank you Rod!!!!Rod was very knowledgeable, fun, and easy to travel along with! Beautiful views and he had great recommendations for us both in Barcelona and around our stops. A professor of culture!Written 7 November 2024
- B8528UQalexw0 contributionsSplendid experienceWonderful experience. Experienced rich culture and saw places I would have never otherwise had the opportunity to see. Thank you to Rod my friends and I had an amazing time.Written 7 November 2024
- feeb4540 contributionsAnrorra day tripVery interesting trip. A refreshing change from the cathedrals of Spain. Beautiful mountains and a chance to understand how one of these tiny European countries work. Tour company firsr class.Written 6 November 2024
- tammykS9496SQ0 contributionsWonderful day trip!It was a fantastic trip with three great stops throughout the day! Pablo was an excellent your guide! I would highly recommend it!Written 4 November 2024
- dpcough0 contributionsGreat day spent with familyWe had a great time touring Costa Brava and Girona. Girona was rich with history and Costa Brava with natural beauty. The tour guide Nu was very knowledgeable about the places as well. Recommend to all!Written 2 November 2024
- jilllc20240 contributionsThe Original Girona & Costa Brava Small Group TourNu was fabulous. She was a great tour guide and knowledgable! Restaurant she recommended Tony’s was great. All in all, a wonderful day!Written 2 November 2024
- P9219YDgeorgea0 contributionsMarvellous Trip, Marvellous Tour GuideWe loved our trip! Pablo was absolutely superb, he was kind, funny and took excellent care of us. His hospitality shone throughout the day and made the trip extra special. We have made great memories today, highly recommended 😀Written 1 November 2024
- shilpa19690 contributionsAwesomeNur was an excellent guide and showed us around, we enjoyed our day and the scenic beauty. Climate was a plus point, We are to see you soon guys for our next trip till then GraciusWritten 31 October 2024
- traveltotheworldnow0 contributionsGreat tourThe tour started well, smooth drive out of Barcelona to our first stop, a medieval town Baga, where our guide gave us local bread, delicious. The town was very quiet but worth a visit. The next stop Aix le Termes in France, the view was incredible, we had a lunch stop before heading to Andorra, drive going up mountains with so many switchbacks must be so difficult but the driver Jonathan managed so well. We stopped at the border, our guide took a group photos, later he sent us a few group photos, a very nice gesture. Andorra had a wonderful view of mountains but the capital was a bit of disappointment, a shopping paradise if one is so inclined. On our back to Barcelona was smooth and arrived back earlier than expected. Over all the guide Pablo was excellent, the driver Jonathan did a great drivr. Highly recommendedWritten 30 October 2024
- jhillflorida0 contributionsBarcelona tour guide Rod was just amazing.Our tour guide was Rod. He shared over seven hours of not just knowledge of the sites but also love of them. Our tour was a real joy. Rod was very knowledgeable and friendly. Would recommend this tour and guide to anyone visiting the area.Written 30 October 2024
- M6874XNclaudiah0 contributionsThe tour was amazing!The tour was amazing! Our tour guy Pablo was great ! Very knowledgeable of the places we visited and He was friendly, very kind always making sure everyone was comfortable on the bus.Written 29 October 2024
- rcgustafson0 contributionsPremium Dali experienceRodrigo is a fantastic guide. He is very knowledgeable, well-organized and interesting. He guided us to the Dali museum and house with good humor and also with an artist’s eye for art. Lydia, our driver, was excellent as well. This is the best tour we took in Barcelona and environs.Written 29 October 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinions of Tripadvisor members 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.
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
279 reviews
Excellent
248
Very good
23
Average
4
Poor
1
Terrible
3
Jodi F
Hangzhou, China9 contributions
Apr 2023
Rod and the crew from Explore Catalunya were amazing. The tour group was very small and intimate, which allowed for a lot of fun, sharing of information and VIP feeling for the day. The locations of the 3 medieval villages were wonderful. Each village was stunningly different, bringing a unique and alternative experience of old world charm. Rod was extremely knowledgeable with a great sense of humour. He made the day fun and engaging, with special 'side trips' to some amazing views. I would highly recommend this tour to anyone who would like to see the delights of historic villages that are outside of beautiful Barcelona.
Written 30 April 2023
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.
Hello,
I've just read your review. Thank you so much. Rod is one of our best, I'll pass on your comments.
Rob
Written 1 May 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Yael H
Colorado Springs, CO110 contributions
Jul 2023 • Solo
A very long day in the car for a few hours in a total of three small villages. Estimate 6 hours of driving versus 4 hours out of the car.
Whilst two of the villages offered some historic sights, Besalú and Repit, much of the trip involved driving through the mountains and seeing scenery. The guide, Enrico, was informative if a bit odd.
Is it worth over $100 per person? I didn’t think so. Especially after being “encouraged” to eat in a particular restaurant with which the guide clearly had a connection. The food was ok, but nothing special.
Whilst two of the villages offered some historic sights, Besalú and Repit, much of the trip involved driving through the mountains and seeing scenery. The guide, Enrico, was informative if a bit odd.
Is it worth over $100 per person? I didn’t think so. Especially after being “encouraged” to eat in a particular restaurant with which the guide clearly had a connection. The food was ok, but nothing special.
Written 17 July 2023
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.
RayJ442
Winnipeg, Canada47 contributions
Sept 2022
We booked this through Get your Guide, who we found to be an excellent booking company. Very easy to deal with, with excellent policies. Our Guide, Cam, was probably the best guide we have ever had. We are seniors and have taken dozens of tours in various countries. The Ancient Villages, Rupit, Besalu and Tavertet were indescribable. Houses going back hundreds of years, still being lived in incredible All three were in mountains and the scenery was amazing. Without question, the best ancient areas we have ever experienced. If you only have time for one tour in Barcelona, i would highly recommend this one. Wear good footwear, flip flops is asking for trouble
Written 6 October 2022
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.
John F
San Francisco, CA6 contributions
Dec 2019
Martha was well versed in the history of Barcelona, from the Roman Empire to the present situation of Catalunya. The scenery was just as beautiful as the history, life and practical lessons that Martha shared with us.
A thousand thanks to Rafa, the driver, who drove us to three gorgeous cities and back to Barcelona in a safe, pleasurable, and relaxed manner.
Also, when the tour guide (Martha) recommends a place to eat, drink or see, make sure you follow her tips and suggestions, such as making a reservation first, or getting tickets in advance.
A thousand thanks to Rafa, the driver, who drove us to three gorgeous cities and back to Barcelona in a safe, pleasurable, and relaxed manner.
Also, when the tour guide (Martha) recommends a place to eat, drink or see, make sure you follow her tips and suggestions, such as making a reservation first, or getting tickets in advance.
Written 10 January 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.
Hello,
A big thank you from the team here.
Regards,
Robert
Written 13 January 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Gill G
Liverpool, UK30 contributions
Had a wonderful day visiting the three villages with Stephen . He was an excellent guide who was keen to impart as much information to the group as possible . He was helpful and ensured the group had an excellent day . His recommendation for lunch was really inspiring and most of the group ate at the place he recommended and no one was disappointed. Would highly recommend this trip was fabulous to see the Catalan countryside and get away from the hustle and bustle of Barcelona . I give the trip and Stephen 5 stars
Written 9 March 2024
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.
Nickey
1 contribution
Jun 2023 • Family
It was great traveling with Xavier! We were a small group, so we took the car, and he was a great guide and driver overall. It was relatively empty in all the areas we traveled to, and he did great carrying conversation and joking around, while also providing information. Would love to travel with Xavier again!
Written 28 June 2023
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.
sschmitz01
Roland, Arkansas38 contributions
Apr 2024 • Couples
This was an outstanding tour! David, our guide, did a great job giving interesting historical information and making suggestions for the use of our free time in
each place. Each village was unique and had its own significant points of interest. Besalu was really charming, with a beautifully preserved bridge and buildings. David gave us excellent explanations about the history of the village, the Jewish quarter, and other details of the buildings. He also got us there early so we could enjoy it without the crowds. Rupit was much smaller and was beautiful and unique. It is much more “off the beaten path” and had a scenic path with lots of birds singing and pretty flowers. Travertet and the cliffs offered spectacular views. David’s driving was very skilled on the roads, which were narrow and curvy. It was a really enjoyable day. I highly recommend this tour!
each place. Each village was unique and had its own significant points of interest. Besalu was really charming, with a beautifully preserved bridge and buildings. David gave us excellent explanations about the history of the village, the Jewish quarter, and other details of the buildings. He also got us there early so we could enjoy it without the crowds. Rupit was much smaller and was beautiful and unique. It is much more “off the beaten path” and had a scenic path with lots of birds singing and pretty flowers. Travertet and the cliffs offered spectacular views. David’s driving was very skilled on the roads, which were narrow and curvy. It was a really enjoyable day. I highly recommend this tour!
Written 16 April 2024
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.
Alex
Miami, FL16 contributions
Excellent itinerary that visits 3 charming and ancient towns. Our guide Enrique was enthusiastic and knowledgeable . The driver was very professional and skilled since it does cover a lot of miles and challenging mountain roads.
Written 15 September 2022
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 D
3 contributions
Jan 2022
This was a great experience, all three town had their own character and great views. Our guide Sergio was very knowledgeable about all of them and Spain as a whole.
The only downside is that it takes a bit of driving to move from one place to the next but all worth it.
If you decide to go I'd recommend seeking the high vantage point to the right of Besalu's entrance the view of the bridge and river are great.
In Rupit find the walkway that leads up to the top of the town- toward the end you'll find an amazing spot in which you can see the village from a unique vantage point.
and the views from Tavertet are simply breathtaking.
The only downside is that it takes a bit of driving to move from one place to the next but all worth it.
If you decide to go I'd recommend seeking the high vantage point to the right of Besalu's entrance the view of the bridge and river are great.
In Rupit find the walkway that leads up to the top of the town- toward the end you'll find an amazing spot in which you can see the village from a unique vantage point.
and the views from Tavertet are simply breathtaking.
Written 31 January 2022
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.
Hello,
Thank you for joining us on this tour, and an even bigger thank you for the lovely review. I'm really happy you like the three towns we have put together for this tour.
Best regards,
Robert
Written 7 February 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Poulami Biswas
Gurugram (Gurgaon), India18 contributions
It was a fantastic experience taking the tour to the three medieval villages of Spain. Besalú was the first stop. It was a moderately small village which houses around ~2k people. It was extremely picturesque and had awesome cafes. The next stop was Rupit. We had our lunch there. There’s a good scope of small hikes which can take you to the higher points of this village and offer you great views of the adjoining mountain ranges. The last village was Tavertet which was a bit of like a ghost town given that the approximate population was 100.
Our guide Sergei (hope that’s how he spells his name) was the best. He explained everything in an impressive way. Was very courteous. Took care of his passengers needs and definitely made the tour all the more fun. Highly recommended.
Our guide Sergei (hope that’s how he spells his name) was the best. He explained everything in an impressive way. Was very courteous. Took care of his passengers needs and definitely made the tour all the more fun. Highly recommended.
Written 28 February 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.
Hello,
First of all, thank you for the great review, we are happy you had such a wonderful time. We will let Sergi know about your review.
Kind regards,
Ester
Written 10 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Is it allowed to bring a stroller? I wonder if there's room for it in the vehicle that picks us up. In addition, I want to ask if the vehicle can bring a car seat for a child of 14 kg (1.5 years)?
Written 15 February 2022
Does this tour run on Xmas or Xmas eve?
Written 5 November 2021
Hello,
What time does the tour end? Need to see if we have enough time to freshen up for dinner in Madrid.
Written 17 February 2020
As I recall we returned to Madrid between 5-6PM. Since dinner is generally eaten later in Spain you should be able to freshen up. To be certain though I would ask the tour company or the guide to be certain.
Written 18 February 2020
I agree with the other respondents to this question. We did this tour and it was via a bus with plenty of space. Just be sure to check with the tour operator several months in advance to ensure availability for the date that you want. A very enjoyable tour! Good luck!
Written 17 February 2020
Hello All,
We are getting ready to visit Spain this holiday break. Our first destination is Barcelona. For one day, we are trying to make a decision whether we should go for three medieval villages tour or half-day Park Guell and few other Barcelona place tour? We will be spending a day with Sagrada, Gothic quarters, Monsarret tour already.
Please help with your suggestion.
Thanks.
Written 17 December 2019
I did the 3 villages tour and really enjoyed. Only 5 of us on the tour so we were really able to enjoy the experience. I also toured Park Guell but not on a tour. The park conducts tours on a first come, first served basis and you sign up/pay when you buy your ticket. We had to wait a few minutes but it wasn't a problem. They provide the tours in English (other languages too). So I would say if you're interested in Medieval Villages go ahead and take it. You can tour Park Guell with their tour guide and it's less expensive.
Also don't take the hop on/hop off to Park Guell unless you're in really good shape. There's a long steep climb from where the hop on/hop off drops you off. There is a local bus that takes you right to the park entrance. Ask at your hotel for the bus number and where to catch it. You'll save your legs.
Written 18 December 2019
We will be in staying at the Hotel Sagrada Familia
Carrer de Corsega 541
How far is the departure point from this hotel?
Thank you
Written 1 July 2019
I think I answered in the incorrect place. I answered in the “ Reviewed this Property. “. Hope you find the reply.
Written 2 July 2019
Yes, I would like to see a map of the tour route in relation to Barcelona.
Written 29 April 2019
Go to Google maps and select option how to go.
Your 2 locations are Barcelona and Besalú. 131km
You'll see the AP-7 route, 1h37minutes and the C-17, 1h47m.
Written 30 April 2019
Carmen U
Barcelona, Spain
Quisiera saber el horario de la excursion por los pueblos medievales, el medio de transporte y el punto de recogida para 2 personas, el 20 de abril.
Written 17 April 2019
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