Things To Do
in Mongat

Montgat is a small coastal town in Catalonia's Maresme region, just a short train ride from Barcelona. Its sandy beaches, palm-lined promenade, and relaxed vibe draw local families and visitors seeking a seaside escape. The town blends Mediterranean charm with easy access to cultural sites in nearby cities like Mataró and Badalona.

Montgat serves as a peaceful base for beach days, coastal walks, and day trips into Catalonia's broader coast and hills.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Historic Center
morning
:

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of Mongat, admiring the beautiful architecture and vibrant flower pots lining the balconies. Visit the historic Church of Santa Maria, where you can appreciate its stunning stained glass and serene atmosphere.

afternoon
:

For lunch, indulge in traditional Catalan cuisine at a nearby restaurant, sampling dishes like 'escalivada' and 'fideuà'. After your meal, take a stroll along the coastal promenade, where you can soak in the sun and watch local fishermen at work. Stop by the local artisan shops to pick up unique souvenirs or handmade crafts.

evening
:

As the sun begins to set, head to the beach for a picturesque view of the Mediterranean Sea. Enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where the sound of waves complements the fresh catch of the day. End your evening with a leisurely walk along the shore, relishing the gentle breeze and the twinkling lights of Mongat.

day 2
Beach and Water Sports
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast, then make your way to the beach to soak up the sun. Join a morning yoga session on the sand, where you can stretch and relax while listening to the gentle waves. Afterward, rent a paddleboard or kayak for a fun hour on the water, exploring the coastline from a different perspective.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a beachside lunch, sampling fresh seafood or a refreshing paella while enjoying the view. Spend your afternoon participating in thrilling water sports, such as jet skiing or windsurfing, guided by local instructors. As you gain confidence, challenge yourself to ride the waves or speed across the water.

evening
:

After a day of adventure, unwind with a beach bonfire, where you can roast marshmallows and share stories with fellow travelers. Opt for a casual dinner at a nearby chiringuito, experiencing the laid-back beach atmosphere. Conclude your day with a nightcap at a beach bar, enjoying live music and the starry sky.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
🚌Monthly transit pass$40-60
🏖️Beach chair rental$5-8
Coffee$2-4
🍷Glass of wine or beer$4-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Proximity to Barcelona with easy train access
  • Relaxed beach vibe and family-friendly atmosphere
  • Excellent seafood and access to Maresme produce
  • Wide range of day trips to cultural sites and parks
  • Limited nightlife compared to Barcelona
  • Seasonal crowds in peak summer
  • Parking can be challenging near the beach
  • "Bon dia" - Good morning
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Si us plau" - Please
  • "Gràcies" - Thank you
  • "On és la platja?" - Where is the beach?
  • "Quant costa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "Parles anglès?" - Do you speak English?

Places to Visit in Mongat

Visit one of these nice places.

Montgat Beach Promenade at Sunrise

Golden light along the calm Mediterranean with long sandy stretches and palm trees; perfect for wide coastal shots.

Fishing Huts and Pier Vista

Rows of colorful fishing huts and nets along the shore provide texture and a classic fishing village scene.

Coastal Viewpoint toward Barcelona

From the cliff paths or higher coastline, capture the Barcelona skyline across the sea on clear days.

Pine Forest Edge near the Coast

Shaded trails and sea-breeze backgrounds offer intimate nature photography near the beach.

Culinary Guide

Food in Mongat

Catalan coastal cuisine blends seafood with vegetables from the Maresme farmlands. Expect simple, honest flavors, generous olive oil, and seasonal produce. Classic dishes highlight the sea: fresh fish, arroz (rice) dishes, and rustic breads with tomate. Pair meals with local wines or cava for a refreshing Catalan dining experience.

Mongat Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Arrossejat de marisc

A flavorful seafood rice dish typical of the Maresme coast; look for it in coastal restaurants near Montgat, especially in summer.

Must-Try!

Esqueixada de bacallà

A shredded salt cod salad with tomatoes, onions, and olive oil; commonly found in tapas bars and seaside eateries.

Suquet de peix

A rustic fish stew brewed with garlic, tomatoes, and herbs; best enjoyed with a crusty bread and a glass of white wine.

Pa amb tomaquet

Bread rubbed with ripe tomato and aceite de oliva, often served with olive oil and a pinch of salt; a staple accompaniment to fish dishes.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat de Mataró

A bustling market offering fresh seafood, local produce, cheeses, and prepared foods; a good place to taste seasonal Maresme flavors.

Mercat Municipal de Premià de Mar

Nearby market with fresh catches, fruit stands, and ready-to-eat bites from stall vendors.

Xiringuitos y puestos de playa

Seasonal beach shacks along the Montgat coast offering quick seafood bites, fried fish, and refreshing beverages.

Climate Guide

Weather

Montgat enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Average summer highs are around 28-30°C (82-86°F), with sea breezes providing relief. Winter temperatures typically range from 6-12°C (43-54°F), with rainfall and occasional storms. Spring and autumn offer pleasant, moderate conditions ideal for outdoor activities and day trips.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Catalan salutations

Greet with a friendly 'Bon dia' (Good day) or 'Hola'; use 'si us plau' (please) and 'gràcies' (thank you).

Language respect

Catalan is widely spoken; attempt basic phrases and address elders politely; avoid loud conversations in public spaces late at night.

Safety Guide

Safety

Montgat is generally safe, with typical coastal-town precautions. Watch for petty theft in crowded areas and on trains; keep valuables secure on the beach. Swim in designated areas and follow lifeguard instructions; ensure children are supervised near the water. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 112 in Spain.

Tipping in Mongat

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

In Spain, service is often included; if not, leaving 5-10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants and bars.

Payment Methods

Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small shops may prefer cash.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Peak tourist season with crowded beaches; bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and book waterfront spots early.

Autumn

Milder temperatures, fewer crowds; ideal for hiking, cycling, and day trips along the Maresme coast.

Winter

Cooler and often rainy; many beach bars close while some restaurants remain open for locals and weekend visitors.

Spring

Pleasant temperatures and blooming flora; perfect for coastal walks, markets, and outdoor dining.

Nightlife Guide

Mongat at Night

Montgat's nightlife is relaxed and beach-focused, with seasonal chiringuitos (beach bars) and casual tapas spots. In summer, the coastline comes alive with live music, sunset drinks, and family-friendly events, while nearby towns like Badalona and Mataró offer additional bars and venues. Expect a laid-back scene rather than a pulsing club culture; most venues close by midnight. For a more energetic night out, easy day trips to Barcelona provide a wide range of clubs, bars, and late-night options.

Hiking in Mongat

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Parc Natural del Montnegre i el Corredor

Forest trails with coastal views, wildlife, and varied elevations.

Airports

How to reach Mongat by plane.

Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN)

Main international gateway; about 30-40 minutes by train or car to Montgat.

Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO)

A longer drive or connections to Barcelona; useful for budget flights.

Reus Airport (REU)

Farther away, mainly for certain carriers; not typically used for Montgat trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Montgat is walkable along the beachfront and town core, with pleasant pedestrian zones. Short trips to nearby towns are easy by train or bike, but some hillier routes inland are less walkable for casual visitors.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families visit Montgat for safe beaches and playgrounds.

Local residents

Catalan-speaking residents who maintain a quiet, community-oriented town.

Tourists

Seasonal visitors attracted to the beach and day trips to Barcelona and Maresme towns.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular across Catalonia with local clubs and informal games along the coast.

Water sports

Sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding available in season along the Maresme coast.

Transportation

Traffic

During peak hours, traffic on the coast can slow near Barcelona; rail lines (Rodalies) offer efficient connections to the city. Parking near the beach is limited in high season; using public transport or bikes is often easier.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Mongat.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarian travelers can enjoy escalivada, grilled vegetables, patatas bravas, and tomato-topped bread; many restaurants can adapt fish dishes to skip meat and offer dairy-free options when requested.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Primary care centers are available in Montgat or nearby towns; for more advanced care, hospitals in Badalona and Mataró offer faster emergency services. Spain provides universal healthcare; carry your EU health card if applicable and travel insurance for additional coverage.

Discover Spain

Read more in our Spain 2025 Travel Guide.

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