Besalú, Rupit and Tavertet by minibus
If you’re spending a few days in Barcelona and feel like swapping the city noise for something quieter and more historic, a day trip to the villages of Besalú, Rupit and Tavertet is a great option. You can rent a minibusand take your group on a relaxed journey through medieval streets, stone houses and some stunning natural scenery.
The whole route can be done in a day. If you’re already in Girona, it’s even easier.
What makes this route special?
- Besalú is known for its impressive 12th-century bridge and well-preserved Jewish quarter. Walking through its narrow streets feels like stepping into another time.
- Rupit is a small village built into a hillside, full of stone houses and wooden balconies. It’s quiet, scenic, and great for a slow walk.
- Tavertet offers wide views over cliffs and forests. It’s the spot for nature lovers and a perfect place to take a break before heading back.
Things to know
- A minibus hire from Barcelona makes the whole trip easy. No need to worry about public transport or parking.
- It’s a full-day trip, so leave early to make the most of it.
- Wear comfortable shoes — all three villages have cobblestone streets.
- Bring water, snacks, and maybe a jacket, depending on the season. The weather can change quickly in the hills.
This is one of those quiet days that stays with you: good views, good company, and a glimpse of life at a slower pace.
Planning a Trip?
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How to move your group from Barcelona?
Here are three transportation options, depending on your group size and budget.
By car
If you’re a small group of max 4-5 people, renting a car offers flexibility and comfort. Given that some roads between Besalú, Rupit, and Tavertet pass through mountainous areas, I’d recommend having an experienced driver familiar with rural and mountainous terrain.
Minibus with driver
Hiring a minibus in Barcelona with a driver from the area is a luxurious choice. This option allows everyone in the group to relax, nap, or take in the views without worrying about driving on winding roads. Your only task is to enjoy the day trip to the fullest.
Public bus
Another option is to take public buses. While it’s not the most comfortable alternative, it has its charm. However, it requires good planning to match schedules. If you attempt to visit all three towns in one day, it might be worth staying overnight in Girona and taking the bus with Teisa from there. Note that there is no direct bus connection from Besalú to Rupit.
Map of your bus tour starting in Barcelona
Here’s a map of the route. We recommend starting early, and leave Barcelona around 8:30 am, dedicating about two hours to Besalú and Rupit, and roughly 40 minutes in Tavertet to enjoy the panoramic views. Including travel time, this day trip takes approximately eight hours.
Besalú: A medieval town in Catalonia
Besalú is a medieval town in the La Garrotxa region, famous for its well-preserved Romanesque bridge, Jewish quarter, and narrow streets steeped in history.
Upon arrival, you’ll see a 12th-century stone bridge crossing the Fluvià River, welcoming you to the town. Across the bridge, you’ll find a network of cobblestone streets perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss visiting the Jewish quarter and the remains of the 12th-century mikveh (ritual bath), one of the few in Europe, as well as the Romanesque Church of Sant Pere.
If you want to make the most of your visit, consider booking a private tour, perfect for groups. With an exclusive guide for two hours, you’ll explore the main points of interest, including the Jewish quarter.
How to get to Besalú from Barcelona?
To reach Besalú from Barcelona, take the AP-7 highway toward Girona and then continue on the C-66, following the signs to Besalú. The drive is about 1.5 hours.
Parking for cars and minibus
Besalú has several parking areas for cars and minibus outside the historic center, as vehicle access is restricted in the old town. The most commonly used parking is at Plaza Sant Pere, a short walk from the bridge and town center.
Rupit: A clifftop village
After Besalú, the next stop is Rupit, a small medieval town known for its clifftop location, hanging bridges, and beautiful mountainous surroundings.
In Rupit, you’ll have free time to explore its steep, cobbled streets. Be sure to cross the wooden hanging bridge and visit the Baroque Church of Sant Miquel, as well as the artisan shops selling local crafts.
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How to get to Rupit from Besalú?
To reach Rupit from Besalú, take the C-66 to the C-63 intersection, which will lead you to the C-153 toward Rupit. The drive takes about one hour.
Parking for the minibus in Rupit
There is ample parking at the entrance to Rupit for both cars and minibuses. Although it is paid parking, it’s the best option as it provides direct access to the town on foot and avoids driving through the narrow streets of the center.
A Catalan lunch in Rupit
If the steep streets of Rupit whet your appetite, what better way to satisfy it than by stopping for lunch? The dishes here feature game meats and fresh produce from local gardens.
Two recommended restaurants are Hostal Estrella (Plaça del Bisbe Font, 1), where you can try dishes like onion soup, beef tenderloin, and rib-eye steak, and Restaurante Albert (Sant Joan de Fàbregues, 4), a spacious place ideal for groups and fans of Catalan cuisine.
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Tavertet: a lookout over the Sau Reservoir
The final stop is Tavertet, a small village perched atop a cliff with stunning views of the Sau Reservoir. It’s the perfect place to wrap up the excursion with a panoramic view of the reservoir and surrounding hills. Don’t miss the 11th-century Romanesque Church of Sant Cristòfol.
How to Get to Tavertet from Rupit?
To reach Tavertet from Rupit, follow the C-153 until you reach the local road leading to Tavertet. This scenic drive takes about 25 minutes.
Parking the minibus in Tavertet
Tavertet has several parking areas at the town’s entrance suitable for cars and minibuses. From these parking lots, you can easily explore the town on foot.
After a day immersed in medieval Catalan life, it’s time to ask your minibus driver to take the group back to the 21st century and head back to Barcelona. With fresh air in your lungs and images of the Catalan countryside in your mind, you might find yourself rethinking what big city life really means to you—and maybe even consider moving to a quieter place one day.
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Last Updated on May 16, 2026
