Catalonia’s medieval villages offer a captivating escape from Barcelona’s bustling city life. This highly-rated day tour whisks travelers through picturesque landscapes to uncover the region’s historic gems. Enjoy the charming streets of Besalú, Rupit, and Tavertet, where ancient synagogues and churches showcase the area’s rich cultural heritage. With ample free time and a small group setting, the experience promises an intimate glimpse into Catalonia’s enchanting past – one that just might leave you yearning for more.
Key Points
- A 10-hour day tour from Barcelona that visits the medieval villages of Besalú, Rupit, and Tavertet.
- Explore the preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and historical sites of these Catalan villages.
- Enjoy ample free time to wander and learn about the authentic local atmosphere.
- Tour includes guided walks and transportation, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
- Overall customer rating of 4.8/5 indicates a highly rated and memorable medieval village experience.
Tour Overview

The Medieval Villages Day Tour from Barcelona offers a captivating exploration of well-preserved medieval towns, immersing visitors in the rich history and architectural charm of the region.
A captivating exploration of well-preserved medieval towns, immersing visitors in the rich history and architectural charm of the region.
Priced from €99 per person, the 10-hour tour takes travelers to destinations like Besalú, Rupit, and Tavertet.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, the tour provides flexibility. Visitors can reserve their spot without upfront payment, paying later.
Given the tour’s popularity, it’s advisable to check availability for starting times.
Looking for more options in Barcelona? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Visiting Besalú

Besalú, a beautifully preserved medieval village, marks the first stop on this captivating day tour.
Guests will explore the town’s arcaded streets and marvel at the restored 12th-century mikveh, a Jewish ritual bath, as well as the remains of a medieval synagogue.
The village’s quaint charm and well-preserved architecture transport visitors back in time, offering a glimpse into Catalonia’s rich history.
With ample free time to wander, travelers can enjoy the authentic atmosphere, discover hidden corners, and savor the local ambiance before continuing on to the next enchanting destination.
Exploring Rupit

After exploring the medieval charm of Besalú, the tour continues on to the quaint village of Rupit. Visitors are treated to 2 hours of free time to wander the picturesque cobblestone streets, cross the hanging wooden bridge, and admire the Baroque-era Church of Sant Miquel. Local restaurants offer opportunities to savor regional cuisine. The village’s well-preserved architecture and tranquil atmosphere provide a glimpse into the area’s storied past.
| Rupit Highlights | | | | |
| — | — | — | — | — |
| Cobblestone Streets | Hanging Wooden Bridge | Church of Sant Miquel | Local Restaurants | Preserved Architecture |
Discovering Tavertet

What makes Tavertet so captivating? This picturesque village is known for its remarkably well-preserved 17th and 18th-century houses.
Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets and admire the 11th-century Romanesque Church of Sant Cristòfol.
Visitors can explore the cobblestone streets and admire the 11th-century Romanesque Church of Sant Cristòfol.
But the real highlight is the stunning Cingles de Tavertet cliffs, which offer panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
During the tour, guests will have free time to wander through Tavertet, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and taking in the scenic vistas.
With its charming architecture and breathtaking natural setting, Tavertet is a truly captivating destination on the Medieval Villages Day Tour.
More Great Tours NearbyScenic Highlights

Though the medieval villages themselves offer captivating charm, the scenic highlights of the day tour truly elevate the experience. Along the route, guests are treated to breathtaking vistas:
| Scenic Highlight | Description |
| — | — |
| Castellfollit de la Roca | A small town perched atop a dramatic basalt cliff. |
| Cingles de Tavertet | Sandstone cliffs providing sweeping countryside views. |
| Panta de Sau Lake | A scenic viewpoint offering panoramic perspectives. |
| Besalú | The village’s medieval bridges and buildings reflect the area’s rich history. |
| Rupit | The hanging wooden bridge and Baroque church create picturesque scenes.
- Barcelona in 1 Day: Sagrada Familia, Park Guell,Old Town & Pickup
- Barcelona Tipsy Tapas Guided Food Tour With Dinner
- Barcelona Small Group Sailing With Snacks and Cava
- Flamenco Night at Tablao De Carmen With Tasting Menu or Dinner
- Barcelona Segway Tour
- Gaudi’S Casa Vicens Skip the Line Ticket With Audioguide
The Tour Experience
The tour experience combines guided walks and free time, allowing visitors to enjoy the medieval charm of the villages.
The small group size ensures a personalized experience with an English-speaking guide who brings the history and culture of the region to life.
A personalized experience with an English-speaking guide who brings the history and culture of the region to life.
Highlights of the tour include:
-
Strolling through the picturesque streets of Besalú, admiring the 12th-century mikveh and medieval synagogue.
-
Exploring the quaint town of Rupit, with its hanging wooden bridge and Baroque-era church.
-
Marveling at the stunning Cingles de Tavertet cliffs and the 17th-18th century houses in Tavertet.
-
Enjoying panoramic views of the Panta de Sau Lake during the scenic drive.
With an overall customer rating of 4.8/5, this tour offers an unforgettable glimpse into the medieval past of Catalonia.
What’s Included

The tour includes a knowledgeable local guide who provides commentary on the history and culture of the medieval villages. Transportation to and from the destinations is provided, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic countryside views. While food and drinks are not included, you’ll have ample free time to explore the charming towns and find a local restaurant for lunch.
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
| — | — |
| Local guide | Food and drinks |
| Transportation | Optional gratuities |
The overall experience is highly rated, with guides and transportation scoring 4.9/5 and 4.7/5, respectively, based on 400 reviews. This Medieval Villages Day Tour offers a chance to learn about the captivating history and beauty of Catalonia.
Meeting Point and Logistics

The tour meets at the Explore Catalunya office, located across from Palau de la Musica, off Via Laietana.
The Explore Catalunya office, situated across from Palau de la Musica, off Via Laietana, serves as the meeting point for the tour.
From this central starting point, the day’s adventure begins. The logistics are as follows:
-
Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
-
Board the comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for the scenic drive to the medieval villages.
-
Relax and enjoy the guided commentary as the guide shares insights about the history and culture of the destinations.
-
At the end of the tour, the vehicle will return you to the original meeting location.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum group size requirement. It’s a small group experience, allowing for a more personalized and intimate exploration of the medieval villages.
Can Children Participate in the Tour?
Yes, children are welcome to participate in the tour. The tour is suitable for all ages, offering a mix of guided walks and free time to explore the medieval villages at a relaxed pace.
Are There Any Accessibility Accommodations Available?
The tour provides accessibility accommodations, including wheelchair-accessible vehicles. Travelers with mobility needs should contact the tour operator in advance to discuss their requirements and ensure the tour meets their needs.
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to My Preferences?
Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. While the standard itinerary visits Besalú, Rupit, and Tavertet, the tour operator can accommodate requests to modify the destinations or focus areas based on your interests.
Are There Any Additional Options or Upgrades Available?
There are no mentioned options to customize the itinerary, but the tour offers additional upgrades like a private tour or a lunch package at local restaurants. Customers can inquire about these during booking.
The Sum Up
This medieval villages day tour from Barcelona offers an immersive look into Catalonia’s rich history. Visitors can explore well-preserved streets, historic sites, and savor local cuisine in charming towns like Besalú, Rupit, and Tavertet. With a small group setting and ample free time, the tour provides an enchanting and highly-rated experience for those seeking to experience the region’s medieval charm.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Tours in Barcelona
- Christmas Magic in Barcelonas Gothic Quarter – Private Tour
- Barcelona: Guided Tour of Sagrada Familia
- Barcelona: Food Walking Tour with Tapas and Wine
- Barcelona: Park Güell Guided Tour with Skip-The-Line Entry
- Barcelona Tapas Tastings Food Crawl Walking Tour & VIP Entry
- Barcelona: Hidden Corners and Instagram Walking Tour
More Tour Reviews in Barcelona
- Christmas Magic in Barcelonas Gothic Quarter – Private Tour
- Barcelona: Guided Tour of Sagrada Familia
- Barcelona: Food Walking Tour with Tapas and Wine
- Barcelona Pass: White Rabbit & House of Candy Combo Ticket
- Barcelona: Park Güell Guided Tour with Skip-The-Line Entry
- Votre voilier avec capitaine pour naviguer et vous baigner
Still browsing? Here are more Barcelona experiences we've covered recently
- 12 Of The Best Walking Tours In Barcelona
- You’ll Love These 13 Workshops & Classes In Barcelona
- What Are The Best Helicopter Flights & Tours In Barcelona? Our Top 4 Picks
- Barcelona’s 14 Best Sailing Experiences
- 3 Best Spa & Hot Springs Experiences In Barcelona
- The 13 Top Wine Tours In Barcelona: Which Is Best?
- Which Barcelona Historical Tours To Choose? We Rank The 14 Best
- The Top 6 Shopping & Market Tours In Barcelona
- 11 Best Tours In Barcelona (With Reviews & Prices)
- Barcelona’s 5 Top Dining Experiences (With Prices)
- Barcelona’s 13 Best Photography Experiences (With Prices & Reviews)
- Barcelona’s 7 Best Lunch Experiences (With Prices & Reviews)
