5 Funicular and Mountain Railway Rides in Spain Worth Booking

1.Montserrat & Cogwheel Train, Gourmet Wine Tasting & Tapas/Lunch

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 6,290 reviews · 7 to 8 hours (approx.) · from $81Our pick

Travel from Barcelona to Montserrat by air-conditioned bus and cogwheel train, tour the Basilica with an English-speaking guide, then choose wine and tapas or a full lunch at a centuries-old winery. Guides such as Thais, Toni, Mariana, and Lesly are praised for clear explanations and warm humor.

“The tour and our tour guide Vince was absolutely amazing and super knowledgeable!! Beautiful experience!”

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2.Montserrat, Black Madonna, Rack Railway & Liquors

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 679 reviews · 5 hours · from $28Best value

Travel from Barcelona to Montserrat by comfortable coach and scenic rack railway. Depending on your option, your English or Spanish guide leads you into the basilica, the Throne of the Virgin, audiovisual rooms, and a monk-made liqueur tasting. Guides have included Laura, Blanca, Enrique, and Anna.

“A gentle, slow-paced tour. Perfect for anyone looking for something more reflective than fast-paced sightseeing.”

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3.Montserrat by Train, Cable Car and Cogwheel

★★★★★★★★★★4.9 · 471 reviews · 55 minutes - 6.5 hours · from $34

Travel from Barcelona to Montserrat by electric train, ascend by cable car, and return by cogwheel railway. Your English-speaking guide, often Marcelo or Monica, leads a small group through the monastery, Basilica, and Black Madonna visit, with about 1.5 hours to explore on your own.

“Monica deserves more than a five star rating. She instantly became our friend well before the tour started by leaving feedback and instructions which was very helpful. She was prompt with everything and looked after us like we were her brothers and sisters or her family. In fact, if we lived in Barcelona, we would definitely be friends with her. She’s such a great person, very knowledgable and made the whole day more than we expected. We hated to see it end. She is one very special person that made our trip very extra special. Above and beyond!”

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4.Montserrat Tour by Train with Cable Car and Cogwheel

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 254 reviews · 6 hours 35 minutes (approx.) · from $87

Travel from Barcelona to Montserrat by electric train, mountain railway, and cable car with a small English-speaking group. Guides Monica and Marcelo lead the visit, explain the monastery’s story, and leave about 2.5 hours for viewpoints, walks, local foods, and the basilica.

“This tour to Montserrat was outstanding. Our tour guide Marcelo was at our meeting point early, and was extremely friendly. He was able to point out a place to grab a quick coffee before we left. Through out our journey, Marcelo was extremely knowledgeable and gave us a historical tour of the Basílica and provided free time to explorer on our own. Marcelo is a good conversationalist, and spent time equally with all guests. He also bought us sweets during our trip. Upon our return to Barcelona, Marcelo recommended a local restaurant that specializes in local food. The entire day was outstanding, and Marcelo was the most professional and thoughtful…”

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5.Semi-Private Montserrat Monastery, Funicular & Scenic Nature Walk

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 172 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $89

Join a maximum of eight people for a six-hour escape from Barcelona to Montserrat. Guides such as Jordi, Frank, Juan, and Jesus lead you through the basilica, up the Sant Joan Funicular, and along a mostly downhill nature walk with mountain views.

“Beautiful scenery with history from our guide Frank. Frank was prompt, courteous and knowledgeable. Tram up and a downhill walk back to monastery.”

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