The Best Medieval Villages to Explore Near Barcelona
The medieval villages in the Catalan region offer a journey back in time with their ancient streets, castles, and historical charm. For motorcycle travelers, these villages provide a perfect mix of scenic routes, historical exploration, and beautiful views. Below are five standout medieval villages near Barcelona that are ideal stops on your motorcycle journey. We also offer guided tours that feature these medieval towns within a curated route through the different geographies of the region.
Road Conditions in this area: Spain's road conditions are generally very good, partly because the temperature rarely dips below freezing, so no need to worry about deep potholes or loose tarmac when turning in hard.
Ideal time to visit and climate considerations: Most of these villages are located in the interior of the region in mountainous geography, so it has a different climate profile than the towns and areas along the coast, where it is more temperate - dry heat during the summer, colder nights during the winter.
It is wise to consider the amount of daylight you will have if you plan your trip between October and March. The sunsets below 5:30 (17:30) in December, and if you’re riding on the northern or eastern side of a mountain, it gets dark and cold around 4:00 (16h).
April to Early November
October and November you get the autumn effects in the foliage - it’s not as expressive as in other countries like in the Northeast, U.S.
What riding gear is recommended:
Jacket
Summer: a summer jacket between June and August is advisable as temperature can reach 33-35 degrees, but it’s a dry heat in the interior. Evenings can get cooler than the coast during the tail ends of the high season.
Winter: the temperature swings are greater the further out from the summer months we are. Have a winter coat and layers if planning a winter or late autumn ride
Gloves: key during the colder months, especially if you don’t have heated grips.
Sunglasses or tinted visor: I prefer sunglasses to tinted visors, it offers greater flexibility to ride comfortably at any time of day, whether in bright daylight or low-light conditions. The sun sits closer to the horizon during the colder months, making sunglasses a necessity.
1. Vic
Vic is a vibrant medieval town known for its well-preserved historic center, with highlights including Plaça Major and the Roman Temple. Vic’s winding streets and mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture offer a rich cultural experience for riders.
Why it's worth going: Vic is a perfect stop for history enthusiasts with its medieval layout, bustling market square, and striking religious monuments.
Best Roads: The main roads leading from Barcelona to Vic are uneventful motorways, however, there are many country roads to go out from Vic that are fantastic rides.
Towards Girona: GL-542, stop in Osor for a coffee if you're at a good break point, it is not a ‘must-stop’.
Towards the north, Besalú, C-153
Top Activities:
Visit the Roman Temple: A well-preserved structure from the 2nd century.
Explore the Plaza Major: The heart of the town, often hosting markets.
See the Episcopal Museum of Vic: Featuring medieval art and artifacts.
Recommended Restaurants:
Bar Restaurant L'estudiant: sitting on their terrace is a must, the tranquility of the triangular-shaped square of Plaza de Don Miquel de Clariana is the only way you are meant to enjoy their home-made Vermouth. If you come for lunch, be sure to get their Menu del Dia special. This unassuming little
El Clot dels Romans: An extensive list of Vermouths, this restaurant also has a great terrace. It’s a little on the ‘hip’ side, but not to an insufferable degree
Distance from Barcelona: 70 km
2. Girona
Girona is one of Catalonia’s most famous medieval cities, with a beautifully preserved Old Town. Known for its Jewish Quarter and Gothic Cathedral, Girona’s ancient walls and cobblestone streets offer an immersive medieval experience.
Why it's worth going: The well-preserved medieval architecture, ancient city walls, and rich history make Girona a must-visit for riders.
Best Roads:
Take GL-664 or GIV-6703 if you’re heading towards the other medieval towns like Pals and Peratallada, or further down to the coast to check out Calella de Palafrugell.
Towards Besalú, GIV-5312, then turn right at the intersection of GIV-5312 and GV-5313 to the unnamed road.
Top Activities:
Walk the medieval walls: Offering panoramic views of the city.
Visit the Cathedral of Girona: Already a famous landmark of the city, but receives greater attention after it was the setting for a key scene in the Game of Thrones series “Shame! Shame! shame!”
Explore the Jewish Quarter (El Call): One of the best-preserved in Europe.
Distance from Barcelona: 100 km
3. Pals
Pals is a beautifully restored medieval village perched on a hilltop, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. With its narrow, cobbled streets, stone houses, and medieval towers, Pals is a tranquil escape for motorcycle travelers.
Why it's worth going: Pals’ medieval charm, quiet streets, and breathtaking views make it a peaceful and scenic stop. It is also very near the medieval towns of Peratallada and Girona and the coastal town of Calella de Palafrugell of Begur. You can easily include some of the old fisherman villages in Costa Brava into a tour if you fancy a Mediterranean injection into your travels.
Best Roads:
The C-31 is the best route to Pals, providing a smooth ride with rolling countryside views.
Top Activities:
Visit the Torre de les Hores: A 12th-century watchtower offering panoramic views.
Stroll through the old town: Explore the well-preserved stone buildings and arches.
Relax in Plaza Major: The town’s picturesque square.
Distance from Barcelona: 130 km
4. Peratallada
Peratallada is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Catalonia. Its name means "carved stone," referencing the way the town’s buildings are integrated into the rock. With winding stone streets and a fortified castle, this small village offers an authentic medieval experience.
Why it's worth going: The village’s medieval authenticity and stone-carved architecture make it feel like stepping back in time.
Best Roads:
The GI-644 road offers a scenic countryside route to Peratallada, winding through the rolling landscape.
Top Activities:
Visit the Castle of Peratallada: Dominating the town with its impressive walls.
Explore the medieval streets: Perfect for wandering and enjoying the historic atmosphere.
See the Church of Sant Esteve: A beautiful example of Romanesque architecture.
Distance from Barcelona: 130 km
5. Besalú
Besalú is one of the most iconic medieval towns in Catalonia, famous for its stunning Romanesque bridge that spans the Fluvià River. The town’s narrow streets, Jewish quarter, and impressive architecture make it a fascinating stop for riders.
Why it's worth going: The unique Romanesque bridge and well-preserved medieval center make Besalú a highlight of any trip.
Best Roads:
The route to Besalú via the C-66 offers scenic views and a peaceful countryside ride as you head north from Girona.
Top Activities:
Cross the Pont Vell (Old Bridge): An iconic 12th-century bridge that’s a symbol of the town.
Explore the Jewish Quarter: Including the remains of a medieval synagogue.
Visit the Monastery of Sant Pere: A striking Romanesque building dating back to the 10th century.