we arrive two days early for Barcelona/Madrid tour and want to know if we should do either or both or if we can avoid traveling into Barcelona until tour day
Altho Monserrat is a good half day tour, I thought it was worth it. I had a couple of days in Barcelona, and hired a driver for Montserrat. Was back in Barcelona by 2 or so, just in time for more wonderful Tapas. barcelona is a wonderful city, the gothic area is particularly interesting. The sea is gorgeous. Have some Tapas, walk around, enjoy a seafood lunch or dinner at Can Majo.
Monserrat was a high light of our trip to Spain, well worth the day trip. We stayed in Sitges for a few days. It is a nice town with a SAND beach, a seaside promenade, lots of restaurants, shops and galleries. A nice place to visit and wander around in. Hasta la vista!