Costa Brava Spain Travel Guide
Girona City: Easily reached by train (high-speed from Barcelona) or bus from most Costa Brava towns. Explore its Old Quarter, the striking Cathedral, the historic Jewish Quarter, and walk along the ancient city walls. It has a rich historical and cultural experience.
Figueres: Houses the world-renowned Dalí Theatre-Museum. Accessible by train or bus. A visit for art enthusiasts. Barcelona: A major city (approximately 1.5-2 hours by bus or train from the central Costa Brava). A full day trip is long, but it offers a taste of its symbolic attractions like Sagrada Familia, the Gothic Quarter, Park Güell, and its urban beaches. It is possible for a single day, though multiple days are better. Cadaqués & Portlligat: The iconic whitewashed village of Cadaqués and Dalí's house in Portlligat offer an special artworkistic and scenic experience. Best accessed by car, or by bus from Roses or Figueres, due to the winding roads. Medieval Villages (Pals, Peratallada, Monells): These charming, well-preserved villages located inland present a peaceful experience the past. They are best explored with a car for flexibility, allowing visits to multiple villages in one day.
Beyond the coastal paths, the Costa Brava's surroundings hold stunning natural areas for day trips.
Cap de Creus Natural Park: A rugged coastline with special geological features, excellent for hiking, photography, and exploring secluded coves. Medes Islands Marine Reserve: Located off L'Estartit, ideal for boat trips, snorkeling, and scuba diving in its protected waters. Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park: Wetlands, an important site for birdwatching, especially during migration periods.
Volcanic Zone of La Garrotxa (Olot): Located further inland (1.5 hours' drive), this stunning volcanic landscape features dormant volcanoes and lush forests. It offers opportunities for hiking and exploring unique geological formations. The interior Empordà region features rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards, creating picturesque scenery for scenic drives or cycling. Discover numerous quiet beaches and coves away from the main resorts. The pre-Pyrenees foothills offer mountain landscape and opportunities for hiking and exploring traditional villages.
Extend your cultural exploration beyond the immediate coast with these historical and rural excursions.
A remarkably well-preserved medieval town with a magnificent Romanesque bridge, a well-preserved Jewish quarter, and a monastery. It offers a deep dive into medieval history.
A scenic medieval village perched on a cliff, accessible via a charming wooden suspension bridge. Located further inland, it provides an unique and memorable experience.
Explore lovely medieval hamlets like Monells and Cruïlles, offering authentic rural life and architecture. Alternatively, visit the Empordà wine region to sample local wines and experience the agricultural heartland.
Explore sites outside the main destination, each with unique historical value.
Discover the authentic rural life and spiritual sites of the region.
Consider adding extra days to your trip to explore nearby regions or combine your Costa Brava visit with other charming destinations.
Extend your trip north to the Catalan Pyrenees for hiking, skiing (in winter), and experiencing traditional mountain village life.
Cross the border into Southern France (e.g., Collioure, Perpignan) for a taste of French culture and seaside charm, easily accessible from the northern Costa Brava.
Valencia for more Spanish coastal culture and gastronomy, or Andorra for mountain activities and duty-free shopping.
Start in Barcelona, then journey along the Costa Brava.
Explore Girona city and the Dalí Triangle.
Visit La Garrotxa volcanic zone, possibly extending to the Pyrenees.
