Sant Cugat del Vallès, located in Catalonia, Spain, is a charming town just 15 kilometers northwest of Barcelona’s city center. It is situated at the foot of the Collserola mountain range and boasts breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This town has a rich history, with many well-preserved monuments and buildings dating back to the Romanesque and Gothic periods. The Monastery of Sant Cugat, a stunning Romanesque monastery founded in the 9th century, is the town’s most notable landmark.
Sant Cugat is a lively town center filled with narrow streets lined with shops, restaurants, and cafes. It has a thriving cultural and artistic scene, with numerous festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions happening year-round. Sant Cugat also has many parks and green spaces, including the Parc Natural de Collserola, which is a vast natural park that provides hiking and cycling trails, as well as breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
If you’re looking for a destination to immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of Catalonia while enjoying natural beauty and vibrant ambiance, Sant Cugat is the perfect place to visit.
Things to Do in Sant Cugat del Vallès
1. Visit The Monastery of Sant Cugat
The Monastery of Sant Cugat in Sant Cugat del Vallès is a must-visit attraction for tourists. Dating back to the 9th century, this Romanesque monastery is renowned for its exquisite Catalan Romanesque architecture. It stands as a testament to the town’s rich history and cultural heritage, having been exceptionally well-preserved throughout the centuries.
Comprising various sections such as the cloister, church, and crypt, the monastery offers a captivating experience. The cloister, adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs, showcases magnificent columns and arches. Adjacent to it lies a serene garden with a fountain and fish pond, providing a tranquil environment to unwind and soak in the ambiance.
The church is another notable highlight, boasting stunning Romanesque architecture and captivating stained-glass windows. Visitors can also explore the crypt, the oldest section of the monastery, which houses several tombs of prominent historical figures associated with the town.
Moreover, the monastery houses a museum displaying a remarkable collection of artifacts and relics, including sculptures, paintings, and manuscripts that narrate its rich history. Guided tours are available, offering a deeper insight into the monastery’s architecture and historical significance.
More information :
- The Museu de Sant Cugat
- Address: Plaça d’Octavià, s/n, 08172 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona
2. The Modernist Cellar: Discover Wine Culture in Sant Cugat
Explore El Celler Modernista, a unique museum in Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona, showcasing a remarkable collection of Modernist and Art Nouveau pieces related to wine-making and vine-growing.
Discover the cellar’s fascinating history, originally constructed in the early 20th century and recently renovated to serve as a museum. It emphasizes the cellar’s architectural design influenced by Modernism and highlights the significant role of wine culture in the region.
Delve into the museum’s diverse exhibits, which include wine-making tools, machinery, an impressive collection of corkscrews, and captivating displays of Modernist-inspired artwork. The Cellar also provides educational experiences to visitors, such as guided tours, wine tastings, and workshops focused on wine-making and viticulture.
Experience the allure of Sant Cugat’s wine culture at The Modernist Cellar and immerse yourself in the captivating world of Modernism and wine-making.
More information:
- Official website
- Address: Carrer de Sant Medir, 24, 08173 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona
3. Experience the Eclectic Mercantic Market
Experience a unique shopping experience at Mercantic, an antique and vintage market located in Sant Cugat del Vallès. The market is housed in a charming old factory building and is a treasure trove of stalls selling an eclectic mix of items, including vintage clothing, antique furniture, retro toys, and vinyl records.
Mercantic is open year-round and is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists. It’s the perfect destination for a day of browsing and shopping for unique and unusual items. The market also features a variety of restaurants and cafes, where you can grab a coffee or a meal while exploring.
In addition to shopping, Mercantic also boasts a small cinema and a theater that regularly hosts cultural events and performances. The market is conveniently located near a train station, making it easily accessible by public transportation.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this one-of-a-kind market and soak up the lively atmosphere of Sant Cugat del Vallès.
More information:
- El Siglo live music schedule
- Latest news and events
- Address: Av. de Rius i Taulet, 120, 08173 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona
4. Enjoy a show at Teatre-Auditori Sant Cugat
The Teatre-Auditori Sant Cugat is a modern performance venue situated in the center of Sant Cugat del Vallès. The theater features state-of-the-art sound and lighting equipment and has a seating capacity of 834, making it an ideal location for large-scale productions such as theater performances, music concerts, dance shows, and film screenings.
Aside from the main stage, the Teatre-Auditori Sant Cugat also has several smaller rooms available for events and rehearsals, all equipped with the necessary technical equipment. With a particular focus on local and regional artists, the theater has a busy schedule of events throughout the year that visitors can check on the theater’s website or box office.
Overall, the Teatre-Auditori Sant Cugat offers a fantastic opportunity to experience the vibrant cultural scene of Sant Cugat del Vallès. With its modern facilities and diverse programming, it is a popular destination for both locals and visitors to the area. Don’t miss the chance to catch a show here on your next visit to Sant Cugat.
More information:
- Book a show Here
- Address: Avinguda del Pla del Vinyet, 48, 08172 Sant Cugat del Vallès, Barcelona
5. Walk around the Old Town
Step into history and explore the charming old town of Sant Cugat del Vallès. Walking through its narrow streets and historic buildings is a delightful experience that allows visitors to immerse themselves in the town’s rich past. With a variety of shops and restaurants, it’s also a great destination for shopping and dining.
Make sure to visit Plaça Octavià, a picturesque square surrounded by historic buildings and hosting a weekly market on Thursdays. Another must-see is Carrer Major, the town’s main shopping street, lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants.
As you stroll through the old town, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of daily life in Sant Cugat. Enjoy the bustling outdoor cafes, catch street performers in action, and browse artisanal shops offering local products such as ceramics, textiles, and delectable food items. Note that Sant Cugat is a traditional Catalan town that most most shops open between 09.30 and 13.30h in the morning and 17.00 to 20.00h in the afternoon on weekdays and Saturday.
6. Casa Museu Cal Gerrer: Unveiling the Daily Life of Catalan Families
Discover the captivating Casa Museu Cal Gerrer, a unique museum in Sant Cugat del Vallès that provides a window into the daily life of Catalan families during the 19th and 20th centuries. Housed in a meticulously preserved 19th-century farmhouse, this charming museum showcases original furniture, household items, and decor, offering a captivating glimpse into the customs and routines of the era.
Step into different rooms, including the kitchen, dining room, bedrooms, and living room, each lovingly recreated with period furniture and decorations. The museum boasts an extensive collection of household artifacts such as ceramics, glassware, textiles, as well as antique tools and farming implements, painting a vivid picture of daily life in the region.
Casa Museu Cal Gerrer also hosts a range of engaging exhibitions and events throughout the year, from concerts to workshops and cultural activities. It even features exhibitions such as Marilyn Monroe. Nestled in a picturesque area of Sant Cugat, nearby the Monastery of Sant Cugat mentioned above, the museum offers a delightful setting for a leisurely afternoon visit.
7. The Mercat Vell
The Mercat Vell, or Old Market, is a historic market located in the heart of Sant Cugat del Vallès. The market was built in 1890 and has been an important commercial hub in the city ever since
The Mercat Vell features a beautiful neoclassical facade and a spacious interior that houses a variety of vendors selling fresh produce, meats, seafood, baked goods, and other local products. Visitors can stroll through the market’s bustling aisles and enjoy the sights and sounds of local merchants selling their wares.
In addition to its role as a marketplace, the Mercat Vell also serves as a cultural center and a venue for community events. The market hosts art exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and other events throughout the year, making it a vibrant gathering place for locals and visitors alike.
Visitors to the Mercat Vell can also enjoy the surrounding area, which is filled with shops, cafes, and restaurants. The market is located in the heart of Sant Cugat’s old town, a charming and picturesque neighborhood that is well worth exploring.
8. Hípica Can Caldés Outings On Horseback
Can Caldés is a charming equestrian center located in the heart of Sant Cugat del Vallès, making it a popular destination for horse lovers and visitors looking to explore the beautiful Catalan countryside on horseback.
At Can Caldés, visitors can choose from a variety of horse riding experiences, ranging from beginner-friendly pony rides and lessons to more advanced trail rides and excursions. The center offers horses for riders of all levels and ages, making it a great destination for families with children.
The equestrian center is set in beautiful surroundings, with acres of rolling hills, forests, and fields to explore on horseback. The center’s experienced guides can take visitors on scenic rides through the nearby natural parks and countryside, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
More information:
- Book a class
- Address: Av. Corts Catalanes, s/n, 08173, Barcelona
9. Admire the architecture at Casa Aymat
Casa Aymat in Sant Cugat del Vallès is a remarkable modernist-style building designed by Jaume Torres i Grau, a renowned Catalan architect. Built in 1904, this building is considered one of the most important examples of modernist architecture in the town.
The colorful façade of the building is adorned with intricate decorative elements and a mosaic featuring floral motifs. The interior of the building boasts a grand staircase and a beautiful stained-glass window. Visitors can also explore the large garden with a fountain and a pond.
10. Pi d’en Xandri
Pi d’en Xandri is a famous tree located in Sant Cugat del Vallès. This majestic tree is estimated to be over 230 years old and is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The Pi d’en Xandri is an impressive Mediterranean pine tree that stands at over 20 meters tall, with a wide trunk measuring over 3 meters in circumference. The tree is believed to have been named after a local farmer, Xandri, who used to bring his animals to graze in the area.
Visitors to Sant Cugat can explore the Pi d’en Xandri and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the surrounding forest. The tree is located in the Parc de la Pollancreda, which is a beautiful park with plenty of hiking trails, picnic areas, and playgrounds for families with children.
The Pi d’en Xandri holds great significance as a symbol of the natural beauty and history of Sant Cugat del Vallès. Visitors can learn more about the tree and its significance at the nearby environmental education center, El Cèntric.
11. Sant Medir Hermitage Trail
The Sant Medir Hermitage Trail is a scenic hiking trail located in the hills above Sant Cugat del Vallès. The trail leads visitors through a beautiful forested landscape, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The highlight of the trail is the Sant Medir Hermitage, a charming 10th-century chapel that is well worth a visit.
The trail begins near the Plaça de Llucanes in the old town of Sant Cugat and is well-signposted, making it easy to follow. It is a moderate difficulty trail that takes around 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you choose to spend at the hermitage.
12. Parc Central Sant Cugat
Parc Central Sant Cugat is a large park located in the heart of the city, making it a popular destination for families with kids looking to enjoy some outdoor fun and relaxation. The park covers over 17 hectares and features a wide variety of activities and amenities for visitors of all ages.
For kids, Parc Central Sant Cugat offers a large playground area with a variety of swings, slides, and climbing structures. There’s also a sand play area and a zip line, providing hours of fun and adventure for children of all ages. In addition to the playground, the park also features a mini-golf course, a skatepark, and a basketball court, offering plenty of options for active play.
For families looking for a more relaxed pace, Parc Central Sant Cugat is perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The park’s many benches and shaded areas also make it a great spot for a family picnic.
In addition to its many activities and amenities, Parc Central Sant Cugat also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, including outdoor movie nights and concerts. It is a great destination for families with kids seeking outdoor fun and relaxation.
13. Taste the local cuisine
Sant Cugat del Vallès offers a rich culinary scene characterized by fresh, locally sourced ingredients and a focus on traditional Catalan cuisine. Visitors to the city can enjoy a variety of dishes and flavors unique to the region.
One of the best ways to experience the local cuisine in Sant Cugat is by trying the restaurants and tapas bars. These establishments offer a range of traditional Catalan dishes, such as paella, fideuà (a type of seafood stew), and botifarra (a type of sausage).
Visitors can also sample the local cuisine by visiting the city’s markets, such as the Mercat Municipal and the Mercat Vell, which offer a variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and other products essential to Catalan cuisine.
14. Visit the Can Borrell Restaurant
Can Borrell Restaurant is a popular dining spot located within the Can Borrell Agricultural Park in Sant Cugat del Vallès. The restaurant offers visitors the opportunity to taste traditional Catalan cuisine made from local, organic ingredients sourced directly from the park’s own farm.
The restaurant’s menu is based on the seasonality of ingredients and features a variety of dishes that showcase the rich flavors and culinary traditions of the region. Some of the popular dishes include grilled meats, seasonal vegetables, stews, and soups.
In addition to the delicious food, the restaurant’s location in the beautiful Can Borrell Agricultural Park makes it a unique and enjoyable dining experience. Visitors can enjoy their meal while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding natural landscape.
Can Borrell Agricultural Park features a variety of walking and cycling trails that allow visitors to explore the beautiful natural landscape of Sant Cugat. Along these trails, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the mountains, forests, and fields that surround the city.
15. Explore Parc Natural de Collserola
Looking to escape the city and enjoy some outdoor recreation? Parc Natural de Collserola, located just outside of Barcelona, and a few stations away from Sant Cugat, is a beautiful natural park and a popular destination for visitors.
Covering over 8,000 hectares, it is the largest metropolitan park in the world, it offers plenty of walking and cycling trails with stunning panoramic views of the city. With over 1,000 species of plants and a variety of animals, including wild boar, foxes, and birds of prey, the park boasts a diverse flora and fauna. In addition to its natural beauty, the park also offers several cultural and historical attractions, including the Romanesque monastery of Sant Pere de les Maleses and the 16th-century Torre Baró Castle.
For cultural exploration, visit the Museu de Ciències Naturals de Barcelona, which offers exhibits on the natural history of the region. Don’t miss out on experiencing the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Barcelona area – visit Parc Natural de Collserola today!
More information:
- Official website
- Information points
- Address: Consorci del Parc Natural de la Serra de Collserola Ctra. de l’Església, 92 08017, Barcelona.
How to Get to Sant Cugat del Vallès from Barcelona
Sant Cugat del Vallès is located approximately 15 kilometers northwest of Barcelona, and there are several ways to get there:
By train:
The easiest and most convenient way to get to Sant Cugat from Barcelona is by train. There are several trains departing from Barcelona to Sant Cugat every day, and the journey takes about 20-30 minutes. You can take the S1 or S2 lines of the Ferrocarrils de la Generalitat de Catalunya (FGC) train network from Plaça Catalunya or other FGC stations in Barcelona.
By bus:
There are also several buses that run between Barcelona and Sant Cugat, operated by the company Sagalés. The journey takes approximately 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic.
By car:
You can also rent a car or take a taxi from Barcelona to Sant Cugat. The journey takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic.
Taking the train is the most recommended and convenient option to get to Sant Cugat from Barcelona, as it is fast, frequent, sustainable, and affordable.
