Barcelona is known for its modernist architecture and bustling urban vibe, but just beyond the city limits lies one of Catalonia’s most scenic bike rides — the coastal route to Sitges.
This ride combines Mediterranean views, seaside towns, and a satisfying sense of escape, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider on a city bike, the journey offers a perfect mix of exercise, culture, and relaxation — and it’s easy to do as a day trip.
Starting in Central Barcelona
Begin your ride near Barceloneta Beach, where you can rent a bike or e-bike from one of the city’s many shops. Riding along the waterfront path is a joy — you’ll pass beaches, palm-lined promenades, and small marinas as you head toward the outskirts of the city.
Follow the marked bike lanes toward El Prat and Castelldefels, staying close to the coast whenever possible. The first part of the ride is completely flat and perfect for warming up before the more dramatic sections begin.
Castelldefels Beach Break
Castelldefels is your first major stop, and it’s worth lingering here. The long sandy beach is ideal for a coffee break or even a quick swim in summer. The town is also famous for its medieval castle, which sits on a hill overlooking the coast.
From here, the route becomes more challenging but also more rewarding. You’ll join the coastal road that winds through the Garraf Massif, offering a series of short climbs and descents with stunning views of the sea.
Riding Through Garraf
This is the highlight of the ride — a serpentine road carved into the cliffs, with the blue Mediterranean stretching out below. The climbs are manageable, especially with an e-bike, and there are plenty of pull-off points where you can stop for photos.
The village of Garraf itself is worth a short detour. Known for its charming beach with green wooden beach huts and a small marina, it’s a quieter alternative to Sitges and a great place to catch your breath.
Arriving in Sitges
After about 40 kilometers, you’ll roll into Sitges, one of Catalonia’s most beloved seaside towns. Known for its whitewashed buildings, artistic heritage, and lively beach scene, Sitges is the perfect place to spend the afternoon.
Park your bike and wander the narrow streets of the old town, visit the Cau Ferrat Museum to see works by Santiago Rusiñol and Picasso, or simply relax on one of the town’s many beaches. Sitges also has a thriving food scene — grab tapas and a glass of local wine or vermouth at a seaside bar.
Return Options
You can cycle back the same way for a round-trip adventure, but many riders choose to take the train back to Barcelona. Trains run frequently, and bikes are allowed on board, making for an easy and scenic return journey along the coast.
This flexibility makes the ride accessible even if you only want to cycle one way.
Food and Drink Stops
Cycling this route is the perfect excuse to enjoy Catalan cuisine. Have a seafood paella in Sitges, sample fresh churros in Castelldefels, or pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the many scenic viewpoints.
If you time your ride for the weekend, you might catch one of Sitges’ markets or festivals, which often feature local wines and artisanal products — an ideal reward after your ride.
Combining Cycling with Culture
This ride is more than just a workout — it’s a cultural experience. Along the way, you’ll pass modernist villas, fishing villages, and historic sites that tell the story of Catalonia’s coastal life.
Many Spain cycling tours include this route as part of a longer itinerary along the Mediterranean, combining it with inland rides through the Penedès wine region or further down the coast toward Tarragona. For those considering guided bike tours Spain, this ride is often a featured stage, offering travelers the chance to enjoy coastal scenery with expert support and curated food stops.
Best Time to Ride
Spring and autumn are the ideal seasons for this ride, with mild weather and fewer crowds. Summer is possible, but start early to avoid the midday heat and enjoy quieter roads.
Winter rides are also popular thanks to Catalonia’s relatively mild climate, though pack layers for the descents through Garraf.
Practical Tips
Bring plenty of water, especially in summer, as services along the Garraf section can be limited. A small bike repair kit is useful, as you’ll be covering some remote stretches.
If you’re using a rental bike, confirm that it’s allowed on regional trains in case you want to return that way. And don’t forget sunscreen — the Mediterranean sun can be strong even outside of summer.
A Perfect Barcelona Day Trip
The ride from Barcelona to Sitges offers the best of both worlds: the energy of a world-class city and the laid-back charm of a seaside escape. With its combination of flat coastal paths, winding cliffside roads, and a beach-town finish, this route is as rewarding for the views as it is for the ride itself.
Whether you’re a casual cyclist looking for a sunny adventure or a seasoned rider seeking a beautiful training route, this journey is one of the most memorable ways to experience Catalonia’s coast — one pedal stroke at a time.
