Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and majestic mountains, Catalonia is known for its beautifully diverse landscape and rich history. In Catalonia, Barcelona is one of the most visited tourist destinations in Spain. The mesmerizing coastline of Catalonia is also perfect for beach lovers. This beautiful and colourful region is full of many historic attractions and things to do. With a rich medieval history, stunning modernist architecture, and vibrant urban culture, Catalonia is a must-visit region when you are in Spain.
The best way to check out the stunning views of Catalonia is to rent a car and drive across the beautiful landscape. There are many car hire companies in Catalonia, and a quick search online will help you compare car hire prices in this major tourist destination of Spain. Many tour operators can also help you with a car hire comparison so that you can have a cheap car rental waiting for you once you arrive at this paradise. Compare companies such as Nomadcar, InterRent, Flizzr, Alamo, Hiper Rent a car, Hertz, Europcar, Drivalia, AutoReisen, Maggiore, Firefly, Solmar, Faycan, National, TopCar, Record, Autoclick, Wiber, Budget, Niza, Rhodium, Delpaso, Atesa, Enterprise, Centauro, Dollar, Marbesol, Avis, Goldcar, CICAR, Malco Rent a Car, Owners Cars, Sixt, Surprice, Thrifty and Orlando
Here are the top things to do in Catalonia in your rental car.
1. Check out the Sagrada Familia
The Sagrada Familia, or the Basilica de la Sagrada Familia, is a famous UNESCO World Heritage Site and the magnum opus of Antoni Gaudi. This is one of the biggest iconic structures located in the city of Barcelona in Catalonia, and over three million visitors visit this place every year. It is said that construction work has been going on here for over 135 years, and it is expected to be completed in 2026. This unfinished Roman Catholic minor basilica is one of the most stunning cathedrals you will ever see in your lifetime, and if you are in Catalonia, you must take out the time to check it out.
2. Exploring the village of Besalu
Drop everything to explore and discover this 12th-century fortified medieval village of Besalu in Catalonia. Besalu is one of the very well preserved medieval villages in Spain, and it is especially famous for its purification baths and stone bridge. The seven famous arches and two towers of the Old Bridge of Besalu cross the River Fluvia, and it is the most recognized landmark of the town even today.
3. Cable Car Ride to the Montserrat Monastery
One of the most incredible things to do while in Catalonia is to take a cable car ride up to the Montserrat Monastery. You get to see some stunning views of the landscape all around as you travel up to the splendid complex. The monastery itself dates back to 1025, and it is a famous pilgrimage spot for people from all over the world. Pilgrims come here to see the Black Madonna or La Morena. It is believed that St. Luke himself carved this statue before it was brought to Spain. The statue remained hidden inside a cave and was discovered nearly 800 years later.
The museum at the monastery is home to works by some of the most renowned artists in the world, including Monet, Dali, and El Greco.
