Barcelona to Besalú, Rupit & Tavertet: Medieval Villages Day Trip

Summary

Walk ancient bridges, taste Catalan flavors, and hear village stories on this day trip from Barcelona

You’ll wander medieval bridges in Besalú, cross Rupit’s swaying wooden bridge, and share lunch at a local spot with tips from your guide. Hear village legends in Tavertet and breathe mountain air before heading back to Barcelona — it’s a day full of small surprises and real Catalan moments.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the sound of my shoes on the stones in Besalú — kind of hollow, echoing under that old Romanesque bridge. Our guide Marta pointed out the grooves worn by centuries of carts (she said “hundreds of years, not just a few!”), and I caught a whiff of coffee drifting from a tiny café tucked behind an archway. I wandered off for five minutes, just watching a couple of locals arguing gently over chess outside. It felt like nobody was in a hurry here.

On the drive to Rupit, we passed Castellfollit de la Roca perched right on the edge of this wild basalt cliff — honestly looked like it could slide off if you sneezed too hard. In Rupit itself, there’s this wooden suspension bridge that bounces more than you’d expect (I got nervous halfway across and some kid behind me giggled). Lunch was up to us; Marta suggested a place for botifarra sausage and beans. I tried to order in Catalan — let’s just say the waiter smiled kindly and switched to English. The air smelled like woodsmoke from someone’s fireplace nearby.

Tavertet was quieter still, almost sleepy by late afternoon. We walked along the cliffs above Pantà de Sau lake — the water was low so you could see the old church tower poking out. Sunlight kept shifting through clouds; it made everything look sort of faded but peaceful. Marta told us stories about smugglers hiding up here ages ago. I didn’t expect to feel so far from Barcelona after just a couple hours’ drive.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Medieval villages tour from Barcelona

• Meet guide near Palau de la Musica
• Depart Barcelona through Example district
• Drive 90 minutes to Besalú
• Walking tour of Besalú medieval village
• Free time to explore Besalú
• Drive past Castellfollit de la Roca
• Arrive in Rupit village
• Explore Rupit and visit Church of Sant Miquel
• Lunch at local restaurant in Rupit
• Visit Castle of Rupit ruins
• Drive to Tavertet sandstone cliffs
• Walk to cliffs and visit Church of Sant Cristòfol
• Return drive to Barcelona with forest views
• Arrive back in Barcelona and end tour

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Barcelona to Besalú, Rupit & Tavertet?

The tour lasts about 10 hours, starting around 8:15am and returning by 6:45pm.

Is lunch included on this medieval villages day trip?

No, lunch is at your own expense but your guide will recommend restaurants in Rupit.

Are there guided tours in each village?

Yes, there are guided walks in Besalú and Tavertet; you have free time in Rupit.

Does this small group tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup; you meet at the main office near Palau de la Música Catalana in central Barcelona.

What kind of vehicle is used for transport?

The tour uses an air-conditioned vehicle for all transfers between villages.

Is this tour suitable for people with limited mobility?

Travelers should have at least moderate fitness due to cobblestone streets and some walking.

Who leads the medieval villages day trip?

A local English-speaking guide accompanies your group throughout the day.

What’s included

Your day includes travel by air-conditioned vehicle from central Barcelona with a knowledgeable local guide leading small group walks through Besalú and Tavertet. You’ll have plenty of free time in Rupit for exploring or enjoying lunch at your own pace before returning to Barcelona in the evening.