Barcelona to Montserrat by Car: Quick Routes + Parking 🚗

Planning a trip from Barcelona to Montserrat by car?

Driving is one of the most flexible and scenic ways to reach this incredible mountain destination.

You can travel at your own pace, stop for photos, and explore Montserrat without being tied to public transport schedules.

Below, you’ll find all the details on routes, parking, tolls, and insider tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

Why Consider Driving to Montserrat from Barcelona?

This isn’t high on my list of how to get to Montserrat from Barcelona, but…

It’s obvious to anybody with their own cars: driving allows for complete freedom.

You decide when to leave, how long to stay, and whether you want to explore other places along the way.

If you’re traveling to Barcelona with kids or in a big group, a car can also be a more cost-effective and comfortable option.

Plus, the scenic mountain roads leading to Montserrat offer stunning views that you won’t get from a bus or train window.

How to Get to Montserrat from Barcelona by Car​

The drive from Barcelona to Montserrat is 60 km long and you can expect it to take about 1 hour.

The most best driving route to Montserrat follows the C-58 and C-55 highways, which are well-maintained and easy to navigate.

1. Leave Barcelona via the C-58 Highway – This highway takes you northwest out of the city toward the town of Terrassa.
2. Merge onto the C-55 Highway – This road winds through beautiful countryside, leading you directly toward Montserrat.
3. Arrive at Montserrat – You can either park near the monastery or stop at the lower funicular station to take the cable car up.

Looking to get to Montserrat by car? Use the Google Maps directions to Montserrat.

Feel like it’s too much? Consider taking one of the best guided tours to Montserrat to take the hassle out of it.

Looking to rent a car? The best spot to do it is with Rentalcars.com.

Is There a Toll on the Way to Montserrat?

Yes, if you take the A-2 motorway and C-16 route, you will encounter tolls which could put a wrench in your idea to plan the best day trip to Montserrat.

The cost is usually around €7 each way.

To avoid tolls, stick to the C-58 and C-55 route, which is free and only slightly longer – well worth saving the money.

Where to Park at Montserrat

There are two main parking options:

• Montserrat Monastery Parking – Located near the monastery, this lot fills up quickly, especially on weekends. Parking costs around €6.50 per day and is open 24/7.
• Aeri de Montserrat Parking – A free parking lot near the Montserrat cable car station. From here, you can take the Aeri de Montserrat cable car for a scenic ride up to the monastery. There are 1000 spots here, and this is how I’d do it.

Scenic Stops Along the Drive from Barcelona to Montserrat

• Sant Cugat del Vallès – A charming town with a beautiful monastery if you have extra time.
• Manresa – A historic city with stunning architecture and local Catalan cuisine.
• Mirador del Serrat – A great viewpoint near Montserrat for taking breathtaking photos.

Alternatives to Driving from Barcelona to Montserrat

• Barcelona to Montserrat train: Only takes you to the foothills of the mountain, then you’ll need the Montserrat Cable Car or the Montserrat Rack Railway from there.
• Barcelona to Montserrat bus: Only one direct bus a day as most of the buses are used for organized, all-inclusive guided tours.

Final Thoughts on Driving from Barcelona to Montserrat

Driving from Barcelona to Montserrat is a fantastic way to experience the journey at your own pace.

You’ll get the chance to stop for scenic photos, avoid crowded buses, and explore more of Catalonia – that said, I wouldn’t rent a car just to do it – the rest of Barcelona doesn’t really need a car.

If you do take a car to Montserrat though, make sure to plan your parking and check for tolls!