DayTripsBarcelona.com

Hi Steve- I haven't booked any excursions out of Barcelona with any guide companies, nor actually been to Monserrat or rafting in Spain, but for what it's worth, if you have the time and inclination, consider also visiting the town of Girona, an hour north of Barcelona by car or train.

Thanks Cyn. I have heard of Girona before but am not too familiar with it. What makes it special?

personally i would go to montserrat on your own....metro and a train or 2...gives you flexibility....thats how we did it on our first trip to Barcelona.
either why definitely go to Montserrat if you have the time.

Hi Steve,

Girona is the unofficial second capital of Catalonia after Barcelona. It's a medieval city located north, near Costa Brava. These days it's 96,000 or so but the old town is worth a visit, it has one of the best well preserved Jewish neighbourhoods in Europe dating back from the 9th century: http://bit.ly/1vS3VuR

You can reach it from Barcelona on a day trip by taking a fast train, either AVANTIA or AVE (high speed train). There are several thru the day and a return trip is around 25-30€. With these fast trains it barely takes 45' to reach Girona.

http://www.infocatalonia.eu/w/2013/11/30/ben/
http://www.girona.cat/turisme/

Also, many visitors take the opportunity to combine this visit with another one to the Dalí Museum in Figueres, which is a short train ride away from Girona: http://www.infocatalonia.eu/w/2013/12/05/museu-salvador-dali/

Thanks Enric and all. I will probably not visit Corona but I think Montserrat is a must. I agree to not do a scheduled your as time is restricted. I want time to wander and wonder here. I hear it is confusing to get there so I am posting a separate thread.