Collioure to Barcelona

Puigcerda?

But it's a substantial detour.

I went to Puigcerda back in 2016. It's an attractive place but not itself in the mountains. It might still be quite hot in September. I don't know what to suggest since I've never had a rental car.

My take:

• Drive south from Collioure across the border via the Col du Perthus. The road is easy and scenic, passing through the Pyrenean foothills.
• After about an hour, arrive in Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. The main attraction is the Dalí Theatre-Museum, a surreal and unforgettable experience that impresses even those who aren’t particularly into art. Figueres is also a good place for lunch—plenty of casual local restaurants offer Catalan dishes and tapas. There are other sites worth visiting, such as the Castell de Sant Ferran or the DIY route through the historical centre.
• From Figueres, head inland to the medieval village of Besalú, around 45 minutes away. This town feels like a step back in time, with cobbled streets, a famous Romanesque bridge, and remnants of a historic Jewish quarter. It's small enough to explore in a couple of hours, and very photogenic. Don’t forget to remind your kids that this isn’t some movie set or theme park—it’s a real village that began taking shape in the 10th century around the castle of Count Miró, the Younger. For about 200 years, it remained independent until the last count died without an heir, and it was incorporated into the House of Barcelona. Its strategic importance in the region is the reason it’s so heavily fortified.
• Continue to Girona, about 35 minutes south. Girona is probably the highlight of this trip. It has a remarkably well-preserved old town, with medieval walls you can walk on, one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, and Gothic and Romanesque architecture. It was also a filming location for Game of Thrones. If you’re staying overnight, Girona is a great option with excellent restaurants and a calm but lively atmosphere.
• After Girona, drive the final stretch to Barcelona, about an hour and fifteen minutes away. Depending on your timing and interests, you might take the scenic coastal route or go straight in via the highway.
• If you have time, you can stop in Cal Rosal, a small village near Berga, and walk the Via Verda del Llobregat. It’s a pleasant 5 km trail (plus 5 km returning) that follows the river through forested areas, old textile mills, and peaceful countryside—perfect for stretching your legs and enjoying a quieter, more local side of Catalonia.

Enjoy!

Thank you for your responses. I'll check out Puigcerda and Girona. We visited Figures, Tossa de Mar and the Dali house a few years back and loved the area.