How to Get to Montserrat by Train?
Montserrat is one of Catalonia’s most popular destinations, attracting visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, historic monastery, and excellent hiking trails. The easiest and most convenient way to reach Montserrat from Barcelona is by train. If you’re planning a trip, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get to Montserrat by train.
1. Take the R5 Train from Barcelona
Your journey to Montserrat begins at Plaça Espanya Station in Barcelona. This major transportation hub is well connected by the Metro (L1 and L3 lines), making it easy to reach.
At Plaça Espanya, look for the R5 train line (operated by FGC – Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya), which runs towards Manresa. Trains to Montserrat depart every hour starting at around 8:30 AM, with the last train leaving in the late afternoon. The journey takes approximately one hour.
2. Choose Your Route Up the Mountain
Once you arrive near Montserrat, you have two main options to get up to the monastery:
Option 1: Aeri de Montserrat (Cable Car)
- Train Stop: Aeri de Montserrat Station
- Travel Time: 5 minutes
- Ticket Price: Around €8 one-way, €12 round trip
- Best For: Quickest and most scenic ride
If you want a fast and thrilling way up, get off at the Aeri de Montserrat station and take the Montserrat Cable Car. This five-minute ride provides stunning aerial views of the mountain.
Option 2: Cremallera de Montserrat (Rack Railway)
- Train Stop: Monistrol de Montserrat Station
- Travel Time: 15-20 minutes
- Ticket Price: Around €12 one-way, €20 round trip
- Best For: A slower, scenic journey
For a more relaxed ride, continue to Monistrol de Montserrat and take the Cremallera de Montserrat, a rack railway that gradually climbs up the mountain.
3. Buying Train Tickets
You can purchase a combined ticket at Plaça Espanya, which includes the train journey and either the cable car or rack railway. A round-trip ticket costs around €24-€30, depending on the option you choose.
Taking the train to Montserrat is affordable, scenic, and stress-free, making it the best way to visit this incredible mountain.