Costa Brava Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps

Google Maps
For navigation; download offline maps for limited signal areas.
Google Translate
Offers offline translation for language barriers.
Sagalés / Sarfa (Moventis) apps
Check bus timetables and routes for inter-town travel.
TheFork (ElTenedor)
Find restaurants, read reviews, and make reservations.
Cabify / Free Now
Ride-hailing apps; availability varies in smaller towns.

Useful Websites

Costa Brava Tourist Board
Costa-brava.org - Official regional tourism information.
Girona City Tourist Board
Girona.cat/turisme - Specific information for Girona city.
Renfe (Spanish Trains)
Renfe.com - Train schedules and bookings.
Dalí Museums
Salvador-dali.org - Official site for ticket booking.
AccuWeather / The Weather Channel
Up-to-date local weather forecasts for daily activities.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

Reputable guidebooks covering Spain contain sections on Catalonia and the Costa Brava. Detailed Road maps of Spain covering Catalonia are useful for self-driving.

Lonely Planet Spain

Books on Destination

"Homage to Catalonia" by George Orwell provides historical context. Salvador Dalí's works or biographies illuminate his connection to the region.

Homage to Catalonia

Local Publications

Free local newspapers or tourism magazines are often at tourist offices or newsstands. They list current events and festivals.

CatalunyaPress Girona Noticies

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

All Emergencies (Police, Ambulance, Fire): 112.
National Police: 091.
Local Police (Policía Local): Often 092.
Ambulance (SAMU): 061 (alternative for medical emergencies).

Lost Documents & Natural Disasters

Report lost passports to local police for a report.
Call your bank immediately to cancel lost credit cards.
For forest fires or severe weather, follow local authorities.
Monitor local news and official alerts for updates.

Safety & Well-being

Medical Services

Hospitals

Major hospitals are in Girona.
Example: Hospital Universitari de Girona Doctor Josep Trueta.
For serious medical events.
Look up locations beforehand.

Clinics & CAPs

Smaller clinics and health centers (CAP) are common.
These suit non-emergency needs.
Available in most towns.
Check opening times.

Pharmacies & Embassies

Pharmacies are widely accessible for minor ailments.
Most national embassies are in Madrid.
Consulates general are closer in Barcelona.
Keep embassy/consulate contact details handy.

Family-Friendly Travel

Kids' Activities

Many beaches are calm for children.
Water parks, like Water World, entertain children.
Vacation rentals offer space and kitchens.

Travel with Children

Adjust meal times for younger children.
Look for restaurants offering earlier dinner service.
Consider childcare options if needed.

Group Travel

Booking for Groups

Book accommodation well in advance for groups.
Book transportation early, especially during peak season.
Consider private transfers or renting a large van.

Group Benefits

Group discounts may appear for attractions.
Inquire about group rates for tours.
Some tour operators custom-build group experiences.

Required Advance Bookings

Reservations

Flights.
Accommodation (especially during high season).
Dalí House-Museum (Portlligat) tickets are mandatory well in advance.
High-speed train tickets for specific times.
Popular fine-dining restaurants.

Important Reminders

Check passport validity.
Research visa requirements.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Arrange car rental and International Driving Permit.
Inform your bank of travel dates.

First Steps Upon Arrival

Immigration & Customs

Clear immigration and customs procedures efficiently.

Cash & Connectivity

Locate an ATM for cash. Purchase a local SIM card for mobile connectivity.

Transport to Lodging

Find your pre-booked transportation to your accommodation.

Emergency Numbers

Dial 112 for all emergencies (Police, Ambulance, Fire) across Spain and the EU. Operators speak multiple languages.

Further Journeys

Regional Connections

Nearby Extensions

Barcelona
A natural extension for urban exploration, accessible by high-speed train or bus.
Catalan Pyrenees
For mountain adventures, hiking, skiing, and charming mountain villages.
Southern France (Occitanie)
Just across the border, a blend of French and Catalan culture.

Cities to Explore

Collioure
A picturesque town in Southern France.
Perpignan
A city with rich history and culture in Occitanie.
Travel by Train
Efficient train connections exist to these neighboring regions.

Similar Destinations

Amalfi Coast, Italy

For dramatic coastlines and charming villages, similar to the Costa Brava.

Provence, France

Similar picturesque landscapes, history, and culinary delights as inland Empordà.

Basque Country, Spain

For unique culture, world-class gastronomy (San Sebastián), and a rugged coastline.

Return Visit Ideas

Seasonal Exploration

Return during shoulder season (spring or autumn).
Weather is mild for dedicated hiking and cultural exploration.
A low-season (winter) visit offers an authentic, quiet experience.
Focus on local life and gastronomy in winter.

Specialized Journeys

Explore specific interests like a culinary tour.
An art-focused journey following Dalí's footsteps.
An active outdoor adventure on a return trip.
See a different side of this versatile region.

Responsible Travel

Support Local & Sustain

Support local artisans and businesses.
Minimize your waste by using Reusable water bottles.
Use Reusable shopping bags.
Conserve water, especially during dry periods.

Cultural Sensitivity

Practice cultural sensitivity with basic Catalan or Spanish phrases.
Observe local customs and traditions.
Be mindful of noise levels in residential areas.
Engage with locals politely and with an open mind.

A Lasting Impression

The Costa Brava offers diverse and enriching experiences. Its sheer beauty and cultural depth create profound moments and new perspectives.

Costa Brava Travel Resources