Travel
Top Destinations for Day and Weekend Trips from Barcelona by Train
While Barcelona remains one of Spain’s most visited cities, its growing popularity has led to concerns about mass tourism, with protests against overcrowding becoming more frequent. Fortunately, there are plenty of scenic and culturally rich destinations just a short train ride away, offering a chance to escape the crowds while enjoying Spain’s diverse landscapes and heritage.
Here are some of the best day and weekend trips from Barcelona, all accessible via public transport.
Explore Dalí’s Surrealist World in Figueres
Art lovers can take a fast train to Figueres in under an hour to explore the works of surrealist master Salvador Dalí. The Dalí Theatre Museum, home to more than 1,500 of his pieces, is a must-visit for those interested in his unique artistic vision.
For a deeper insight into Dalí’s life, visitors can explore Casa Natal Salvador Dalí, his birthplace, which opened to the public in 2023. Those with extra time can venture to Cadaqués, a picturesque coastal town where Dalí’s summer home in Portlligat is located. The surrounding Cap de Creus Natural Park offers hiking trails through landscapes that inspired his artwork.
Savor Wine and Cava in the Penedès Region
Wine enthusiasts can hop on a 90-minute train ride southwest to the Penedès wine region, known for its stunning vineyards and world-renowned cava production.
The town of Sant Sadurní d’Anoia, Spain’s cava capital, offers tours and tastings at historic wineries like Freixenet and Codorníu. For a more immersive experience, visitors can rent an e-bike from Bikemotions, located at Lavern-Subirats station, and cycle through rolling vineyards, stopping at wineries along the way.
Discover Modernista Architecture in Reus
For architecture enthusiasts looking beyond Barcelona’s well-known Modernista buildings, Reus offers a quieter and more affordable alternative. Located two hours by train from Barcelona, the town is the birthplace of Antoni Gaudí, though his architectural influence is not present there.
Instead, Reus boasts stunning works by Lluís Domènech i Montaner, including Casa Navàs with its intricate stained glass and ornate designs, and L’Institut Pere Mata, a hidden gem of Modernist architecture.
Stroll Through the Historic Streets of Girona
Just 38 minutes by high-speed train, Girona is a perfect blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy. The city’s Barri Vell (old town) features narrow streets, stone staircases, and a stunning Jewish Quarter, offering a glimpse into Spain’s medieval past.
Famous for its Game of Thrones filming locations, Girona remains a peaceful retreat even on weekends. Visitors can enjoy the colorful riverside houses along the Onyar River, explore the imposing Girona Cathedral, and walk along the city’s ancient walls for panoramic views.
Escape to the Pyrenees in Vall de Núria
For those seeking a weekend retreat in nature, Vall de Núria in the Pyrenees is an ideal getaway. A two-hour, 40-minute train ride to Ribes de Freser, followed by a historic rack railway journey, takes visitors over 1,000 meters into a breathtaking valley surrounded by towering peaks.
In winter, the area offers skiing and snowshoeing, while summer brings hiking trails through lush mountain landscapes. Accommodations are available at the sole hotel in Vall de Núria, with additional options in Ribes de Freser.
Hike Through Collserola Natural Park
For a quick escape into nature without leaving the city, Collserola Natural Park is a great option. Located just above Barcelona, it offers numerous hiking trails suitable for all levels.
Easily accessible via public transport, Collserola provides a tranquil retreat from the city, making it perfect for a half-day or full-day hike.
A Sustainable Way to Explore Catalonia
With efficient train connections to these destinations, travelers can enjoy Catalonia’s cultural and natural treasures while minimizing their environmental footprint. Whether seeking art, architecture, wine, or outdoor adventure, these trips offer the perfect escape from Barcelona’s bustling streets.
Travel
Rome Braces for Travel Disruptions Following the Death of Pope Francis

Travellers to Rome over the coming weeks should expect significant disruptions and closures at some of the city’s most iconic religious sites following the death of Pope Francis on April 21.
The Vatican confirmed that Pope Francis, born Jorge Mario Bergoglio in Argentina, died on Monday after suffering a stroke that led to a coma and subsequent heart failure. His passing has set in motion a series of deeply traditional rituals, including a funeral, public mourning, and the election of a new pope.
Among the immediate impacts is the closure of the Sistine Chapel, which will be used exclusively by the College of Cardinals for the conclave—the secretive process to elect the next pope. The Vatican announced the chapel will close to the public from April 28 and remain inaccessible until several days after the conclave concludes, likely reopening in mid-May.
Other nearby attractions will also see changes. The Vatican Museums will remain open except for April 26, when they will close to honor the Pope’s funeral. However, access to the Sistine Chapel will be suspended, and security will be tight throughout Vatican City. Tours of the Vatican Gardens and the Necropolis of the Via Triumphalis are also suspended due to increased security measures as cardinals travel between the chapel and their accommodations.
St. Peter’s Basilica is currently hosting thousands of mourners, with the late pontiff’s body lying in state until April 25. Public access is possible from 7 a.m. to midnight on April 24, and from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on April 25. However, long queues and strict dress codes are in place. Parts of the basilica, including the dome, are closed to visitors, and all guided tours are suspended.
The Pope’s funeral is scheduled for April 26 at St. Peter’s Square and is expected to draw millions. Hotel and flight prices have already begun to climb in anticipation of the influx of visitors, many of whom are traveling to witness what is considered a historic and spiritual milestone.
Following the funeral, attention will turn to the election of the new pope. Tourists and faithful can witness the traditional smoke signals from the Sistine Chapel chimney—black indicating no decision, and white signaling that a new pope has been chosen. Crowds are expected to gather in large numbers in St. Peter’s Square for this moment.
While some visitors may be disappointed by limited access to key religious sites, others are embracing the rare opportunity to witness the Vatican during a pivotal moment in modern Church history.
Travel
Travel Industry Faces Scrutiny Over Website Accessibility Failures
Travel
World’s Largest Cruise Ships Set to Make Waves in 2025
The cruise industry is gearing up for a landmark year in 2025, with several colossal ships preparing to set sail, promising unprecedented scale, luxury, and innovation at sea. With 17 new vessels expected to debut, five stand out as the biggest and most ambitious, redefining what it means to cruise in style.
1. Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Leading the fleet is Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, a sister ship to the current record-holder, Icon of the Seas. Weighing in at a staggering 250,800 tonnes—slightly heavier than Icon—this floating city will embark on seven-night cruises from Port Canaveral, Florida, visiting popular Eastern and Western Caribbean destinations, including the cruise line’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay.
The ship features eight themed neighborhoods, 40 dining and bar venues, multiple pools, waterslides, and even a three-level Family Townhouse. Royal Caribbean has announced that Star of the Seas will begin full operations on August 31, with early “showcase sailings” offering shorter trips starting earlier in the summer.
2. Disney Cruise Line’s Adventure
Disney Cruise Line is launching its largest ship yet, Disney Adventure, in December. At 208,000 tonnes and 342 meters in length, it will carry around 6,000 guests. Based in Singapore, Adventure will offer three- to five-night cruises with no port calls—just immersive Disney entertainment at sea.
This ship will be the first Disney vessel based in Asia and will feature unique attractions such as a rollercoaster at sea, Marvel-themed experiences, and seven different “lands.” It is currently under construction, with a float-out planned for May and a maiden voyage scheduled for December 15.
3. MSC Cruises’ World America
Weighing 205,700 tonnes, World America is the second in MSC’s World-class series, following World Europa. From its Miami base, the ship will alternate seven-night Caribbean routes, including stops in Mexico, Puerto Rico, and the Dominican Republic.
The 22-deck ship boasts 19 restaurants, 20 bars, a Family Aventura park with over-water swings, and an onboard waterpark. World America is already completed and will be officially named in Miami on April 9, with Hollywood actress Drew Barrymore as its godmother.
4. Princess Cruises’ Star Princess
Star Princess, a 175,000-tonne vessel, is Princess Cruises’ second Sphere-class ship and the largest ever built in Italy. Slated for delivery in September, it will initially sail Mediterranean routes before heading to the Caribbean and Alaska in 2026. Amenities include pickleball and basketball courts, expanded bars, and new dining experiences.
5. TUI Cruises’ Mein Schiff Relax
Already in operation, the 160,000-tonne Mein Schiff Relax entered service in March, focusing on wellness. With a spa, yoga deck, and over 30 dining venues, the ship currently runs Mediterranean cruises and will later shift to the Canary Islands.
Despite their grandeur, such mega-ships face challenges. Port capacity, local tourism limits—like those now enforced in Santorini—and environmental concerns around LNG fuel use are reshaping the future of cruising. With passenger preferences shifting post-pandemic, it remains to be seen whether “bigger is better” will remain the industry’s guiding mantra.
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