MileHacker Logo
Day Trips from Figueres

Day Trips from Figueres

Figueres Spain Travel Guide

Cadaqués & Portlligat

These two iconic coastal villages are inextricably linked to Salvador Dalí. Cadaqués is a picturesque white village with a bohemian past, nestled in a bay. Portlligat, a small cove nearby, is home to Dalí's former residence, now a house-museum.

Approximately 40-minute drive from Figueres, navigating winding roads. Bus services (Sarfa) operate but can be infrequent, especially outside peak season.

Exploring Cadaqués & Portlligat

  • Morning: Drive to Portlligat for your pre-booked visit to Dalí's House-Museum (book well in advance, often months ahead). For trips that include Dalí'the House of-Museum, explore options on GetYourGuide.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a fresh seafood meal in Cadaqués.
  • Afternoon: Explore the charming streets, art galleries, and seafront of Cadaqués.
  • Consider a short stroll to the lighthouse for scenic views.

Discovering Girona, Roses & Collioure

Explore more gems easily reachable from Figueres.

Girona

A beautiful a historic medieval city, Girona boasts a well-preserved Old Quarter (Barri Vell), a magnificent cathedral, and a historic Jewish Quarter. The Onyar River, flanked with colorful houses, adds to its charm.

Girona Highlights

  • Midday: Wander through the narrow, meandering roads of the Jewish Quarter (Call), one of Europe's best-preserved. Consider a walking tour available on GetYourGuide.
  • Lunch: Savor a meal in the Old Quarter or by the river.
  • Afternoon: Wander down the ancient city walls (Passeig de la Muralla) for panoramic city views.

Roses

A popular coastal town on the Costa Brava, Roses features wide sandy beaches, a lively marina, and a significant historical citadel.

Roses Activities

  • Morning: Visit the Ciutadella de Roses, an archaeological site featuring Greek, Roman, and from the middle ages ruins. Find tours and entry fees on GetYourGuide.
  • Afternoon: Relax on the beach, enjoy water sports, or explore the lively marina.
  • Accessibility: Approximately 20-minute drive or bus ride from Figueres.

Collioure France

Highlights

  • Morning: Explore the Regal Castle of Collioure, wander through the old town's narrow streets, and visit the Notre-Dame-des-Angethe Cathedral of.
  • Lunch: Indulge in a French seafood meal by the harbor.
  • Afternoon: Discover local art galleries or enjoy the beaches.
  • Time needed: A day-long outing offers ample time.

Accessibility

  • Around 45-minute drive from Figueres across the border.
  • A direct train from Figueres-Vilafant to Collioure (via Perpignan) provides an alternative.
  • Organized cross-border tours simplify travel.
  • Access to France on GetYourGuide.

Connections

  • Girona Train Travel:High-speed train to Girona approximately 15 minutes.
  • Roses Transport:Roses is about 20 minutes by car or bus from Figueres.
  • Cadaqués & Portlligat Roads:Winding roads lead to this group coastal gems.
  • Collioure Border Crossing:Cross into France for Collioure.
  • Barcelona High-Speed Rail:Barcelona is quickly reachable by high-speed train.
  • Costa Brava Buses:Local buses connect Figueres to many coastal towns.
  • Pyrenees/South of The french republic Access:Accessible by car or regional trains.
  • Flight Emissions Offset:Consider carbon offsetting for your flights via Terrapass.

Pre-booking Recommended

For popular spots like Dalí's House-Institution in Portlligat and the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, reserving tickets online well in advance is advisable, especially during peak season.

Natural Escapes

The Figueres area provides access to stunning natural parks and landscapes for those seeking outdoor experiences.

Cap de Creus Natural Park

This rugged peninsular landscape is the easternmost point of mainland Spain, distinguished by wild, wind-sculpted rock formations, unique flora, and secluded coves.

Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park

A significant wetland area, this preserve is a haven for diverse birdlife. It consists of lagoons, marshes, and dunes.

La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park

Located inland, this unique landscape features ancient, dormant volcanoes and lava flows, with lush forests and charming medieval villages.

Cap de Creus Activities

Ideal for hiking along well-marked trails, swimming in crystal-clear waters of secluded coves, and nature photography.

Park Highlights

  • Hiking trails lead to breathtaking viewpoints.
  • Discover secluded coves for bathing or relaxation.
  • The light tower at Cap de Creus offers unmatched scenery.

Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Activities

Great for bird watching, specifically during migration seasons (spring and autumn). Flat terrain and easy walking trails.

Park Features

  • Chances for birdwatching abound.
  • Accessible trails suit all fitness levels.
  • Observation hides provide discreet viewing.

La Garrotxa Exploration

Activities

  • Enjoy pleasant hiking paths through wooded areas.
  • Explore trails around volcanic cones.
  • Ideal for nature walks.
  • Accessibility: Approximately 1-1.5 hours drive from Figueres.

Charming Villages

  • Visit medieval Besalú, known for its Romanesque bridge.
  • Discover Castellfollit de la Roca, perched on a basalt cliff.
  • Check out unique architecture.
  • Find sustainable outdoor gear at Patagonia.

Respect Natural Spaces

  • Stay on marked trails to protect fragile ecosystems.
  • Don't drop trash; carry out all waste.
  • Avoid disturbing wildlife.
  • Consider offsetting your travel emissions via Terrapass.
  • Explore eco-friendly accommodations at Ecobnb.

Cultural Excursions

Deepen your cultural understanding with excursions to from the past and culturally rich sites outside Figueres.

Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes

A grand Benedictine monastery, built in the Romanesque style, perched on a mountainside with a view of the Cap de Creus peninsula and the Bay of Roses.

Monastery Details

  • A legacy and architectural marvel.
  • Represents Catalan Romanesque art.
  • Approximately 1-sixty-minute drive from Figueres.

Peralada

A charming medieval village close to Figueres. Home to Peralada Castle, which houses a casino, a gallery with a renowned library, and a famous wine cellar.

Peralada Activities

  • Enjoy wine tasting at the Peralada winery.
  • Explore the castle grounds and museum.
  • Hosts a celebrated international music festival in summer.

Empúries

An ancient archaeological site located directly on the coast, comprising the ruins of a Greek city (Emporion) and a later Roman city (Emporiae).

Site Significance

  • One of Spain's most important archaeological sites.
  • Greek and Roman cultures converged here.
  • Features a museum and well-preserved ruins with sea views.

Cultural Enrichment

Enhance Your Visit

  • Consider a guided tour for deeper insight into historical sites. Book tours on GetYourGuide.
  • Visit local artisan shops to support cultural heritage.
  • Attend local festivals for an immersive experience.

Cultural Insights

Explore the distinctive mix of history, art, and tradition.

Romanesque Art

The region is rich in Romanesque architecture, notably monasteries.

Medieval Legacy

Girona and Besalú showcase preserved medieval quarters.

Catalan Identity

Experience the distinct cultural heritage of Catalonia.

Plan Historical Visits

Check the official websites for accessibleing hours and any guided tour accessibility for these cultural sites. Numerous provide specific times for tours.

Multi-Day Extensions

Figueres' excellent connectivity sets a good starting point for longer regional explorations.

Extension Ideas

1

Costa Brava

Coastal exploration and charming towns.

2

Pyrenees Foothills

Mountain adventures and natural parks.

3

Barcelona & France

City and cross-border discovery.

Costa Brava Extension

  • Drive or take buses along the beautiful Costa Brava coastline.
  • Explore charming towns like Begur (with its medieval castle).
  • Visit picturesque fishing village Calella de Palafrugell.
  • Discover A municipality In catalonia (with its walled medieval town).
  • Experience the lively Lloret de Mar.
  • Each town offers a distinct character and beautiful beaches.

Pyrenees Foothills

  • Head north towards the Pyrenees ranges for cooler climes.
  • Enjoy mountain activities and scenic hamlets.
  • Visit Ripoll, known for its monastery.
  • Explore Camprodon and its natural surroundings.
  • Enjoy hiking in the mountain parks.
  • A taste of mountain scenery.

Strategic Next Steps

Art & History

Continue to Barcelona or Tarragona (Roman ruins). Find booking options on GetYourGuide.

Nature Escapes

Explore the Pyrenees mountain range or Parc Natural del Montseny near Barcelona.

Beach Getaways

Discover more of the Costa Brava region or Maresme coast south of Barcelona.

Plan Extended Travel

When planning multi-day trips, consult train and bus schedules in advance, especially for cross-border travel.
← Previous
Things to Do in Figueres
← Back to Figueres
Next →
Figueres Travel Tips

Next Up: Figueres Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

Continue to Figueres Travel Tips