Things To Do
in Montornés del Vallés

Montornès del Vallès is a peaceful Catalan town lying in the Vallès Oriental just north of Barcelona. It blends green spaces with a modern village vibe, offering an easy base for exploring both the city and the countryside. The town center is walkable and sprinkled with cafés, markets, and charming streets.

It serves as a convenient gateway to nearby natural parks and the cultural richness of the Barcelona area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Exploration
morning
:

Arrive in Montornés del Vallés and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll around the town center, soaking in the local architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Stop by a café for a traditional Spanish breakfast of tostada with tomato and olive oil.

afternoon
:

Visit the Montornés del Vallés Town Hall, a beautiful building filled with local history and cultural significance. Explore the local shops to purchase handcrafted goods and souvenirs. Later, enjoy a lunch of tapas at a nearby restaurant, sampling various Spanish delicacies.

evening
:

Head to a local bar and enjoy a refreshing drink with the residents as you mingle and experience the genuine hospitality of the town. Indulge in a hearty dinner of paella at a family-owned restaurant known for its authentic cuisine. Wrap up the evening with a leisurely walk through the plaza, admiring the lights and sounds of the night.

day 2
Nature and Hiking
morning
:

Start the day with a hike in the nearby Montseny Natural Park, famous for its beautiful flora and diverse landscapes. Breathe in the fresh mountain air as you traverse trails that lead to stunning viewpoints. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy amidst the greenery.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to Montornés del Vallés and refresh yourself with a light lunch at a local bistro. Spend your afternoon visiting the Museu Municipal, where you can learn about the local history and heritage. Don't miss the chance to enjoy the art exhibitions that often feature local artists.

evening
:

Experience an evening of live music at a local venue, where you can listen to a variety of genres, from traditional Spanish to modern tunes. Savor a dinner of grilled meats and local vegetables in a cozy restaurant known for its rustic charm. End the night by trying some delicious churros with chocolate at a well-loved dessert shop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🧃Bottle of water (0.5L)$1-2
🚇Public transport ticket (one-way)$2-3
🏨Hotel room per night (mid-range)$90-140
Cup of coffee$2-4

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Close to Barcelona, easy day trips, gentle pace, good food and markets, family-friendly environment
  • Limited nightlife compared to Barcelona, smaller selection of international cuisine, busier in peak tourist seasons nearby
  • "Catalan: Bon dia" - Good morning
  • "Catalan: Si us plau" - Please
  • "Catalan: Gràcies" - Thank you
  • "Catalan: On és el bany?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Catalan: Què recomaneu?" - What do you recommend?

Places to Visit in Montornés del Vallés

Visit one of these nice places.

Historic town center viewpoints

Photos from cobbled streets and the town square capture traditional Catalan life with colorful façades.

Church and square with lighting

Evening or golden hour shots around the local church or main square, with warm street lighting.

Hilltop or park viewpoints

Scenic overlooks on the town’s outskirts provide views over the valley and surrounding hills.

Culinary Guide

Food in Montornés del Vallés

Catalan cuisine in Montornès del Vallès centers on fresh produce, simple preparations, and seasonal dishes, with easy access to Barcelona's culinary influences.

Montornés del Vallés Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Escalivada

A smoky medley of roasted peppers, eggplant, and onions, often served with olive oil and bread.

Must-Try!

Calçots amb romesco

Winter-special grilled onions with romesco sauce; best enjoyed in late winter to early spring at local taverns.

Butifarra amb mongetes

Grilled or fried Catalan sausage served with white beans; hearty and comforting.

Pa amb tomaquet

Toast rubbed with tomato and garlic, olive oil, and salt; a staple starter in bars and homes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat Municipal de Montornès del Vallès

Traditionally calm markets with fresh produce, cheese, and local specialties; look for seasonal fruit, vegetables, and regional snacks.

Market stalls and casual street bites

Tapas, patatas bravas, bocadillos, and seasonal snacks available around town squares and casual eateries.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters; spring and autumn are pleasant with cooler nights; sun is common most of the year.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake or a light kiss on the cheek is common among friends; farewell greetings are polite.

Language and politeness

Using basic Catalan phrases is appreciated; Spanish is widely understood.

Meal culture

Meals are often social and lengthy; allow time for conversation and avoid rushing meals.

Safety Guide

Safety

General safety is good; usual precautions apply: keep an eye on personal belongings in crowded places, use licensed taxis or rideshares late at night, and be mindful of traffic when walking near roads.

Tipping in Montornés del Vallés

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping in Spain is optional; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted; cards are common in most places; some smaller venues may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Hot days and dry conditions; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan activities for early mornings or late afternoons.

Autumn

Mild weather with changing leaves; great for outdoor walks and photography with softer light.

Winter

Mild to cool, possible rain; calçots are seasonal in late winter; layer clothing.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for strolling and outdoor markets.

Nightlife Guide

Montornés del Vallés at Night

Montornès del Vallès offers a low-key, village-style nightlife with casual bars and tapas spots; for a broader nightlife scene, locals often travel to nearby Granollers or Barcelona for live music and more venues.

Hiking in Montornés del Vallés

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Montseny foothills trails

Various short to moderate hikes with pine forests and views; accessible within a short drive.

Local hill walks around Montornès

Gentle loops offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding towns.

Airports

How to reach Montornés del Vallés by plane.

Barcelona–El Prat (BCN)

Major international airport; 25-30 minutes by train or car to Montornès.

Girona–Costa Brava (GRO)

About 45-70 minutes by car or rail; useful for low-cost flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and walkable, with most essentials within a short stroll and pedestrian-friendly streets in historic areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Local families and expatriates with a mix of native Catalan/Spanish speakers and visitors.

Commuters

Residents who travel to nearby cities for work, including Granollers and Barcelona.

Students and young professionals

A growing portion of residents due to proximity to educational and employment hubs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular across Catalonia; local clubs and matches in nearby towns.

Cycling

Hilly routes and quiet roads make cycling a common activity for locals and visitors.

Hiking

Nearby hills and regional parks offer easy to moderate trails with scenic views.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic is generally light in the town; Barcelona-bound trains and roads can be busier during peak commuting hours, but public transit connections are reliable for day trips.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Montornés del Vallés.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Catalan and Spanish menus naturally include veggie options like escalivada, pa amb tomaquet, salads, and seasonal vegetables; look for dishes with vegetables, legumes, and cheese.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare is accessible locally via the Montornès del Vallès health center or nearby Granollers hospitals; emergency services can be reached by calling 112.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

Spain Travel Guide