Barcelona: Tour Besalu, Peratallada and pals

Exploring Catalonia’s Medieval Gems: Besalú, Peratallada, and Pals

If you’re looking to escape the bustling streets of Barcelona for a day and step back into a world of cobblestone streets, stone bridges, and ancient town squares, this tour offers just that. For $340 per person, you get a well-paced 9-hour journey through three of Catalonia’s most captivating medieval villages—Besalú, Peratallada, and Pals. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll travel comfortably in a small group of up to 15 people, making the experience intimate and engaging.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances history with scenery. The impressive Besalú bridge and stunning views from Torre de les Hores are unforgettable. Plus, wandering the narrow alleys of Peratallada and Pals feels like stepping into a fairy tale. The guide’s insights help bring these places to life, adding depth to what might otherwise seem like just picturesque ruins. One possible drawback is the early start—if you’re not a morning person, it might take some adjustment. However, for those who enjoy a full day of exploration, this tour suits history buffs, photography lovers, and anyone curious about authentic Catalan villages.

If you love discovering medieval architecture and quiet village life just outside Barcelona, this tour is an excellent pick. It’s especially ideal if you’re short on time but want a comprehensive taste of Catalonia’s historical villages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The views from Besalú’s Romanesque bridge and Torre de les Hores are truly breathtaking.
• Rich Heritage: Visit the 12th-century Jewish baths and explore the Jewish quarter in Besalú.
• Authentic Villages: Wander cobbled streets and stone facades in Peratallada and Pals.
• Expert Guidance: A tour guide provides fascinating insights into the history and architecture.
• Comfortable Transportation: Traveling in a small group with a vehicle suited to the number of participants ensures a relaxed experience.
• Flexible Planning: The tour includes pickup and drop-off, with the option to cancel 24 hours in advance.

A Deep Dive into the Medieval Experience

This tour from MADRID LANDS offers an engaging way to see some of Catalonia’s best-preserved medieval towns. It’s designed to give you a taste of history without the hassle of planning multiple day trips or navigating unfamiliar roads. The entire day is orchestrated to maximize your experience, with the convenience of hotel pickup, expert guiding, and small-group intimacy.

Starting with Besalú

We begin early, leaving Barcelona and heading approximately 1.5 hours northeast toward Besalú. The journey itself offers a scenic introduction to the Catalan countryside, with rolling hills and fields that provide a sense of what rural life might have been like centuries ago. Once there, we visit the famous Besalú Bridge, a Romanesque masterpiece that crosses the Fluvia River. Standing on this bridge, you’re immediately struck by the imposing stone arches and panoramic views of the river valley—a perfect spot for memorable photos.

Besalú is known for its well-preserved medieval layout, and walking its narrow, winding streets transports you back in time. We loved the way the guide pointed out details like the ancient stone walls and the 12th-century Jewish baths (Miqvé), which remain remarkably intact. These baths not only highlight Besalú’s architectural prowess but also serve as a reminder of the town’s once-thriving Jewish community. Our guide explained how the Miqvé was used for ritual purification, adding a layer of cultural depth to the visit.

Exploring the Jewish Heritage

The Jewish quarter, or Call, is a highlight for many travelers. Its narrow streets, stone houses, and historical markers paint a vivid picture of Jewish life in medieval Catalonia. One reviewer noted, “The Jewish baths are a highlight — it’s humbling and fascinating to see such an ancient structure that tells a story of coexistence and history.” This visit offers a meaningful glimpse into the diverse fabric of medieval Catalonia.

More Great Tours Nearby

Moving on to Peratallada

About 45 minutes from Besalú, we reach Peratallada, a tiny village that feels like a secret. Its name, meaning “stuffed stone” in Catalan, hints at its medieval age and solid stone structures. The main attraction here is the Plaça de les Voltes, a lively square surrounded by medieval stone facades, cafes, and artisanal shops.

Walking through the cobbled streets, you’ll notice how well-preserved the buildings are, with intricate carvings and wooden balconies. The Torre de les Hores offers sweeping views over the rooftops and countryside—perfect for photography or simply soaking in the scenery. The guide shared stories about the town’s history, helping us appreciate the craftsmanship and resilience that kept these structures standing for centuries.

Final stop in Pals

The last destination, Pals, is just a 20-minute drive away. This charming town is famed for its Medieval Old Town and panoramic views of the Costa Brava. The standout is the Torre de les Hores, a tower that once served as a lookout point—today, it offers stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape and the distant coastline.

In Pals, you can stroll the narrow streets, admire the well-preserved stone houses, and imagine what life was like in medieval times. The town’s elevated position offers some of the best views on the trip, making it a fitting conclusion to a day full of history, architecture, and scenic beauty.

The Return Journey

By around 5:00 pm, the tour begins its journey back to Barcelona. The relaxed pace allows time to reflect on the day’s discoveries or share photos with fellow travelers. The small group setting means you can easily chat with your guide or ask questions about anything that piqued your interest.

Practical Details and Tips

This tour provides excellent value when considering the comprehensive itinerary and expert guiding. The price includes pickup from your hotel, transportation in a vehicle suited to the group size, and a knowledgeable guide who shares insights at each stop.

You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes—there’s a fair amount of walking on cobblestone streets—and bring sunglasses, a camera, and weather-appropriate clothing. Since lunch isn’t included, you might want to pack a snack or plan to enjoy local cafes in each village.

The tour is available in multiple languages, including Arabic, Spanish, and English, with audio guides in French, Portuguese, Italian, and German. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially since the tour is limited to a small group for a more personal experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This day trip is perfect for history enthusiasts, photographers, or anyone interested in experiencing authentic Catalan villages without the hassle of independent travel. If you appreciate scenic views, medieval architecture, and cultural stories, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy walking, small-group intimacy, and guided commentary that brings history alive.

Final Thoughts

This tour strikes a fine balance between sightseeing, cultural insight, and scenic beauty—all within a manageable day from Barcelona. The stops are thoughtfully selected to showcase the best of medieval Catalonia, with stunning views and fascinating stories at every turn. The small-group format and expert guidance make it feel personalized, and the overall value for the price is impressive considering the rich experiences packed into a single day.

While the early start might be a challenge for some, the reward is a full day immersed in history, architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or simply craving a peaceful escape into the past, this tour delivers a memorable slice of Catalonia.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the drive from Barcelona to Besalú?
The drive takes approximately 1.5 hours, offering a comfortable start to the day with scenic views along the way.

What are the main attractions in Besalú?
The highlights include the Romanesque Besalú Bridge and the 12th-century Miqvé, along with the charming medieval streets and Jewish quarter.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch is not included, so you might want to bring snacks or plan to eat in one of the local cafes in each village.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking on cobblestone streets. Also, bring sunglasses, weather-appropriate clothes, and a camera.

How many people are in the group?
The tour is limited to a small group of up to 15 participants, creating an intimate experience with plenty of opportunities for questions.

Will I have free time in each village?
Yes, the itinerary allows for exploration and photographs in each town, especially in Peratallada and Pals.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What languages are available for the tour?
Live guides are available in Arabic, Spanish, and English. Audio guides are provided in French, Portuguese, Italian, and German.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, transportation is in a vehicle adapted for the group size, ensuring a relaxed and hassle-free journey.

Who should consider booking this tour?
Anyone interested in medieval architecture, scenic views, and authentic villages will find this experience rewarding, especially if short on time but eager for a deep cultural dive.

This tour offers a rare chance to peek into Catalonia’s medieval past, with stunning views, fascinating stories, and charming villages—all in one memorable day. It’s a fantastic way to add historical depth and scenic beauty to your Barcelona visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: