It is quite easy to go back to many centuries ago in just 1-2 hours drive. How do we do that? For instance, visiting some of the most majestic medieval castles near Barcelona. If you like the idea, read on because we made a list of our favorite castles we have visited so far:
These are some of our favorite castles near Barcelona:
Castell de Montjuïc: a castle in Barcelona
Okay so when we say it is quite easy to time travel we mean it: this one is not among the castles near Barcelona but IN Barcelona. Castell de Montjuïc is an old military fortress built on top of Montjuïc hill which dates back to the 1640s, in the context of the war “Guerra dels Segadors” (Reapers war). Besides visiting this castle and discovering many important episodes in the history of the country, you can also explore the area since it includes many beautiful spots such as the Botanical Garden or the lookout Mirador de Montjuïc. Also, you can take the cable car to get to the top of the Montjuïc hill. A great plan for a Sunday (or any day of the week!).
Castell de Montsoriu: a medieval castle from the 10th century
One of our favorite medieval castles. Castell de Montsoriu is located within the Parc Natural de Montseny, so that means that besides exploring the story hidden in this castle from the 10th century, you can also connect with nature since you have to walk a nice path before stumbling upon this impressive castle. History+nature, a perfect combination for us.
1h 30m drive from Barcelona.
Castell de Burriac: a castle by the Mediterranean sea
Okay, this might not be the most majestic castle but it definitely has a particular beauty. Located in Cabrera de Mar (near Argentona), Castell de Burriac was built between the 12th and 15th centuries on an earlier Roman defense tower. It was an unbeatable point to control the territory back then. To get to the top, you will have to hike 1h 30min approximately (it is a nice hike though) and the views are definitely worth it: the Mediterranean at your feet.
45m drive from Barcelona (and a 2h-3h hike).
Castell de Sant Ferran: biggest fortress in Europe
This one is located in Figueres, a bit far away from the city but it still can be considered among the most impressive castles near Barcelona. If you are thinking of spending a day at Salvador Dalí’s hometown, make sure you include this stop in the itinerary: Castell de Sant Ferran. It was built in 1753 and located on top of a hill, occupying an area of 320.000m2. That fact says it pretty much all. It is the biggest monument in Catalonia!
1h 45m drive from Barcelona.
BONUS CASTLES
Why are we including this BONUS? Because maybe you are thinking of not only visiting a medieval castle but also… having a fancy lunch or even spending the night there! In that case (a more expensive option as you might have guessed), there are these two beautiful castles where you can also spend the night:
Castell de Peralada
Besides visiting this medieval castle, you can also have the fanciest lunch at the Restaurant Castell de Peralada, right next to the castle. This restaurant not only has the most privileged views but also the most important international recognition: a Michelin star.
1h 45m drive from Barcelona.
Castell de Cardona
You can not only visit this medieval castle, but also spend the night! Hotel Parador de Cardona offers the most genuine trip to the Middle Ages.
1h 30m drive from Barcelona.
How many of these castles near Barcelona have you visited already? Did we miss any of your favorites? Let us know in the comments below!