A Coastal Town Too Good to Skip: Why I Took a Half-Day Solo Trip to Sitges from Barcelona
It’s easy to stay in Barcelona and never leave—but you’d be missing something. On a quiet afternoon, I hopped on the R2 train and took a solo half-day trip to Sitges, a small beach town just 40 minutes away.
No grand plans. Just the kind of escape where you carry only what you need—a 20L outdoor backpack with a capacity expander, a towel, sunscreen, and a camera. That’s all it took.
Getting There Was the Easiest Part
I left from Estació de Sants in the city center. The Renfe train ride was quick, direct, and brought me right to the coast. If you're driving, it’s about 40 minutes; a bus takes slightly longer, but still under an hour. Either way, it’s close enough to make the journey feel light.
A Beach Town That Doesn’t Try Too Hard
Sitges gives you more than you expect. I walked straight to Playa de Sant Sebastià, a quieter beach with space to stretch out and clear views of the sea. It’s close to the center but feels relaxed. No crowds, no rush—just swimmers, a few local families, and the sound of the waves.
Even if you skip the beach, the town itself invites you to wander. The Casco Antiguo—Sitges' old town—is full of narrow lanes and pale stone facades. I didn’t plan a route. I just let the streets decide. A few steps later, I was standing outside a museum by the sea.
Corners Worth Slowing For
· Museu de Maricel sits right above the water, filled with modern and medieval art, but honestly, the view outside the building is its own exhibit.
· The Arxiu Històric turned out to be more than a historic site—it’s one of the best photo spots in town.
· The Sant Bartomeu Church sits on a cliff above the beach. Big, old, and unshakably beautiful.
I didn’t go inside every museum. I didn’t need to. Just standing still for a while was enough.
If You Like Wandering and Local Finds
Before heading back, I stopped by La Ruta de los Arteanos, where local artisans sell handmade crafts. It wasn’t a tourist trap. Just a few tucked-away shops and market stands with real things—wooden toys, ceramics, woven bags.
Sitges wasn’t loud. It wasn’t busy. But that’s what I liked about it.
If you’re looking for a slow escape close to the city, this is a town that asks very little of you—but gives you a lot back.
And yes, everything I brought fit into a single outdoor backpack capacity expander. No luggage. No stress.
