Day trips from Barcelona?
 

Any charming towns/villages to off set the crazed scene in
Barcelona? We want the best of both.

I suggest a day trip up to Montserrat. Can be easily done by public transport, too....no need to take any sort of "organized" tour.

ditto - one of Europe's most hopping religious shrines and is set in a rugged mountainous setting a short train ride from Barcelona. Views for miles around - avoid weekends as crowds are thick and to get in to see the much venerated Black Madonna statue can be very long.

If you do go by all means be sure to visit the art museum.

The Dali Museum in Figuerss. At least I think you could do this in a day trip. If so, you won't be sorry.

Will you have a car?