Besalu & 3 Medieval Towns Small Group Tour with Hotel Pick-Up

Experience Catalonia’s Medieval Charm with a Small Group Tour from Barcelona

If you’re craving a day away from the bustling streets of Barcelona to explore some of the region’s most well-preserved medieval towns, this tour offers a fantastic option. For around $115, you’ll spend approximately 10 hours discovering the stone bridges, ancient temples, and cobbled streets of Besalú, Vic, and Santa Pau—each packed with stories from the Middle Ages. Led by local guides, often with impressive backgrounds in Spanish history, this guided trip delivers both depth and charm, making history come alive in a way that’s engaging and authentic.

Two aspects we particularly appreciate are the small-group size—capped at just eight travelers—which fosters a more personal experience, and the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off in Barcelona, avoiding the hassle of public transportation. The guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendly approach, making these visits both educational and enjoyable.

A possible consideration is that the tour might sometimes blend English and Spanish explanations, which could be less ideal for pure English speakers. Also, if you’re hoping to visit all three towns independently, keep in mind that some reviews mention that the itinerary may sometimes be shorter or focus on fewer towns than expected.

This tour is best suited for history buffs, small group travelers who enjoy more personalized attention, and those eager to see Catalonia’s medieval architecture without the hassle of planning. If you’re comfortable with a full day of sightseeing and want both historical insights and scenic beauty, this trip is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Authentic Medieval Towns: Visit well-preserved villages with centuries of history.
• Expert Guides: Guides with history degrees bring stories to life.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to eight travelers for a more intimate tour.
• Convenient Transportation: Hotel pick-up and drop-off from Barcelona save time.
• Flexible Options: Upgrade to a private tour for a more tailored experience.
• Taste of Catalan Culture: Opportunity to enjoy local cuisine in Vic and Besalú.

Discovering Catalonia’s Medieval Treasures

This tour offers a well-rounded introduction to some of the most enchanting medieval towns in Catalonia, all in one day. It’s designed for travelers who want to experience history, architecture, and scenic countryside without the hassle of organizing multiple transport arrangements or middle-of-the-night train connections.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting in Barcelona with hotel pickup, the journey begins early, around 8:30 AM, giving you ample time to enjoy the day. As we leave the city behind, you’ll get a brief overview of Barcelona’s highlights from your guide, passing iconic sights like Plaça de Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, and Gaudí’s famous houses, such as Casa Batlló and La Pedrera. This offers a nice glimpse of modernist Barcelona before stepping into the medieval world.

Vic: The Heart of Medieval Catalonia

Our first stop is Vic, a city that wears its history proudly. The main square, Plaça Major, is a highlight, offering a lively atmosphere with cafes and markets. The square’s architecture is a mix of styles, reflecting its long history. Here, you’ll enjoy a walking tour—your guide points out the old town hall (Casa Comella), a 19th-century modernist building, and explains the significance of the surrounding streets and buildings.

Many reviews praise the guide’s storytelling—“Ramon is wonderful, making history fun and engaging”—and the opportunity to taste local dishes in one of Vic’s traditional eateries. The cathedral is another key site, showcasing a fusion of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles, which makes it a visual treat for architecture enthusiasts.

The Roman temple of Vic, dating back to the 2nd century, is a highlight for history buffs. Its preserved columns and ancient structure remind visitors of the city’s long-standing importance through the ages.

Castellfollit de la Roca and the Basalt Cliffs

Leaving Vic, we swing by Castellfollit de la Roca, an extraordinary sight perched atop a 40-meter-high basalt cliff. Built on volcanic rock, this tiny village looks like it’s defying gravity. It’s a perfect spot for photos and a quick break, with reviews describing it as “surprising and photogenic”. The narrow streets and scenic views make it a memorable stop, especially if you love dramatic landscapes.

Santa Pau: A Volcanic Wonderland

Next, we visit Santa Pau, a medieval village set in the volcanic zone of Garrotxa. It’s a place that feels both timeless and peaceful, with cobbled streets and Gothic-Renaissance architecture. The town’s charm is palpable—“you fall in love with its authenticity at first sight,” as one traveler put it. Your walk here reveals a genuine medieval atmosphere with centuries-old buildings, surrounded by lush greenery.

The guide will share insights into Santa Pau’s significance during the Middle Ages and how its strategic location helped shape its history. The town’s preservation offers a snapshot of life centuries ago, but with all the comforts of today—like cozy cafes and local shops.

Besalú: A Medieval Masterpiece

The tour culminates in Besalú, arguably one of the most picturesque and best-preserved medieval towns in Catalonia. Named a National Monument in 1996, Besalú’s cobbled streets and stone walls seem frozen in time. The medieval bridge—with its characteristic arches—is an iconic symbol of the town and a favorite photo spot.

The historical significance of Besalú’s Jewish community is another focal point. Your guide explains how this vibrant community contributed to the town’s cultural and economic life during the Middle Ages. Large sections of the original town walls, dating back to the 12th century, still remain, offering a tangible link to the past.

Inside the town walls, you’ll find a maze of stone streets, ancient gateways, and the remains of a medieval castle. Many visitors note how “the town feels like a living museum,” with shops and cafes that seem unchanged for hundreds of years.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This tour is designed to combine comfort, education, and scenic beauty. The air-conditioned vehicle ensures a pleasant ride, especially in the warmer months. The small group size—max eight people—means you’re not just another face in a crowd, and your guide can tailor the experience based on your interests.

Most travelers find the three-hour stop in Vic and the two-hour visit to Santa Pau to be enough to soak in the atmosphere without feeling rushed. The four-hour visit to Besalú allows plenty of time to wander the streets and snap photos.

While reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, some note that the tour can sometimes involve a mix of English and Spanish explanations. If language is a concern, it’s worth asking about the guide’s language proficiency before booking.

The price of $115.24 per person offers good value, considering the transportation, guided insights, and access to multiple towns in a single day. It’s an efficient way to see a region that would otherwise require multiple arrangements and days of travel.

Authentic Experiences and Hidden Gems

Many travelers have shared how their guides go beyond the typical sightseeing script. From recommending local eateries in Vic where you can try Catalan tapas, to pointing out secret viewpoints in Besalú—these personalized touches elevate the experience. “Xavi was wonderful, showing us the best local restaurants and hidden corners,” one review mentions.

You’ll also love the way the towns themselves tell stories—of medieval commerce, Jewish communities, volcanic geology, and regional traditions. If you enjoy walking through history, this tour hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is ideal for those who appreciate history, architecture, and small-town charm. It’s particularly good for travelers who prefer guided experiences to explore more comfortably and learn from local experts. It’s also a practical option for those who want an efficient way to see multiple towns without renting a car or navigating public transport.

However, if you’re seeking a completely private experience or have specific language preferences, the upgrade to a private tour might be worth considering. Also, if you’re traveling with children or have mobility issues, verify if the walking distances are manageable for your group.

The Sum Up

This small group tour from Barcelona offers a well-paced, engaging, and visually stunning way to explore Catalonia’s medieval heritage. With expert guides, scenic drives, and authentic towns that seem frozen in time, it’s a fantastic choice for history lovers and photo enthusiasts alike. The convenience of hotel pickup, combined with the intimacy of a small group, makes it both easy and enjoyable.

While it might not satisfy those seeking a completely English-only explanation, most travelers find the overall experience rewarding and full of memorable sights. The opportunity to walk through ancient streets, see preserved Roman temples, and admire stone bridges makes this a day well spent.

If you’re ready to step back into the Middle Ages and discover Catalonia’s hidden gems, this tour promises a day packed with beauty, history, and local flavor—well worth the cost for a truly immersive experience.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup available for this tour?
Yes, the tour includes hotel or apartment pickup within Barcelona, starting around 8:30 AM, making it very convenient to begin your day without stress.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 10 hours, giving enough time to explore each town comfortably, with about 3 hours in Vic, 2 in Santa Pau, and 4 in Besalú.

What towns are included in the tour?
The main stops are Vic, Santa Pau, and Besalú, with a brief stop at Castellfollit de la Roca for photos and views.

Is this a private tour or a group tour?
The standard tour is a small group of up to 8 travelers, but there’s an option to upgrade to a private experience for your party.

Are meals included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the guide will suggest good places to taste local Catalan cuisine, especially in Vic.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. Verify if walking distances and terrain are manageable for young children or those with mobility challenges.

How is the transportation arranged?
You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle, with a maximum of 8 passengers, ensuring comfort and easy communication during the drive.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since the tour involves walking through historic towns and cobbled streets. A camera or smartphone for photos is a must.

In summary, this tour offers a charming, informative, and scenic journey through Catalonia’s medieval past, perfect for travelers looking for a personal touch and a deep dive into history beyond Barcelona’s city streets.