Public Transportation: Tossa De Mar

Local & Regional Bus Network

Tossa de Mar has no extensive internal public transport system like a metro or tram. Its public transport focuses on inter-town bus services. The town center, Vila Vella, and main beaches are easily accessible on foot.

The bus system mainly serves routes connecting Tossa de Mar to other Costa Brava towns and larger cities like Girona and Barcelona. The main bus station in Tossa de Mar situates centrally, making it a convenient hub for arrivals and departures.

Routes & Hubs

Sarfa (Moventis) is the main bus operator.
Services link Tossa de Mar to Lloret de Mar, Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Girona, and Barcelona.
A small tourist train operates seasonally, offering a scenic loop around town and to Vila Vella.
The main bus station in Tossa de Mar serves as a central hub.

Ticketing & Fares

Tickets can be purchased directly from the bus driver for shorter journeys or at the ticket office for longer routes. Fares remain fixed based on distance.

Hours & Frequency

Bus services operate throughout the day, with schedules varying by season. Peak summer periods see higher frequency; low season may have reduced services.

Accessibility

Buses generally have steps, which may present challenges for travelers with mobility issues. Newer buses may offer better accessibility. Cobblestone streets in Vila Vella also pose a challenge.

Efficient Navigation Tips

Within Town

Walking is the fastest and most enjoyable way to explore the town.
The tourist train provides a scenic overview, useful for orientation.
Use local maps obtained from the tourist office.

Inter-Town Travel

Check bus schedules in advance, especially for evening or weekend travel.
Use online navigation apps for routes and real-time schedules.
Purchase tickets from the bus station office for longer journeys to avoid delays.

Walking & Cycling Zones

Vila Vella Old Town

Narrow, cobbled streets closed to vehicles, ideal for walking.

Beachfront Promenade

Pleasant, flat area for leisurely strolls.

Central Streets

Many pedestrianized zones encourage foot exploration.

Camí de Ronda

Sections suitable for cycling and hiking.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Taxis present a convenient option for direct travel, especially when carrying luggage or traveling outside bus operating hours. Uber and Cabify are not widely available for local travel within Tossa de Mar, finding prevalence more in larger Spanish cities.

Taxi Identification & Fares

Taxis in Spain are typically white with a green light on the roof indicating availability.
Find them at designated taxi stands (bus station, main squares, hotels) or hail them on the street.
Taxi fares are metered. A short ride within Tossa de Mar generally costs between €5 and €10.
Cash often remains preferred, but many taxis accept credit/debit cards. Check for a card machine.

Safety & Airport Arrangements

Licensed taxis operate safely and under regulation. Confirm the meter use or agree on a fare for longer journeys.
Look for official identification and meters when hailing a taxi.
Taxis are readily available at Girona-Costa Brava (GRO) and Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) airports.
At bus stations, taxi stands usually situate nearby.

Taxi & Ride-Share Summary

Taxis remain the reliable local option for direct transport.
Fares are transparent via meters.
Available at transport hubs.

Uber/Cabify not for local Tossa de Mar travel.
Check for card payment option before starting.
Always use licensed taxis.

Taxi Facts

Cost

Short rides €5-€10, airport transfers €50-€180.

Availability

Taxi stands in town, airports, and bus stations.

Regulation

Licensed and metered for fare transparency.

Rental Options

Renting a car presents flexibility for exploring the Costa Brava. Several local shops in Tossa de Mar offer motorcycle, scooter, and bicycle rentals, especially during the high season.

Car Rental Information

Valid driver's license. IDP needed if not from EU/EEA.
Minimum age usually 21 (sometimes 25 for certain car categories).
Credit card in main driver's name for security deposit.
Major international companies (Avis, Hertz, Europcar, Sixt, Enterprise) at airports.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Local shops in Tossa de Mar offer rentals.
Valid driving license with appropriate category for motorcycles/scooters.
Experience often expected; helmets are mandatory.
Scooters facilitate navigation in crowded areas and parking.

Car Rental Companies Comparison

Sixt

Wide car selection, often newer models, good service.

Higher pricing, strict insurance/mileage rules.

Avis/Hertz

Global presence, reliable fleets, varied options from economy to luxury.

Long queues possible, complex insurance, higher deposits.

Europcar

Good coverage across Spain, competitive pricing.

Customer service quality varies, older vehicles in fleet.

Driving & Parking in Tossa de Mar

Driving Laws & Roads

Drive on the right side of the road. Seatbelts mandatory for all.
Speed limits clearly marked: 120 km/h motorways, 90 km/h major roads, 50 km/h urban.
Roads generally well-maintained. Coastal roads are scenic but winding.

Parking Information

Parking can present challenges and be expensive, especially in town center and near beaches.
Look for paid parking lots ("aparcament") or underground garages.
Many hotels offer private parking; consider this amenity when booking accommodation.

Rental Safety Considerations

Always inspect the vehicle for existing damage before driving.
Understand insurance coverage details and deductible.
Mobile phone use while driving is prohibited unless hands-free.
Strict rules apply for driving under the influence.

Motorcycle riders must wear helmets; passengers also.
Be mindful of pedestrians, especially in town centers.
Know the emergency contact number (112) for accidents.
Secure your rental vehicle when parked.

Walking & Cycling

Exploring Tossa de Mar on foot or by bicycle presents intimate access to its charm and natural beauty. Many areas remain pedestrian-friendly.

Pedestrian Zones

Tossa de Mar is highly pedestrian-friendly.
Vila Vella (Old Town) features narrow, cobbled streets closed to vehicles.
The beachfront promenade presents a pleasant, flat area for strolls.
Many central streets are pedestrianized.

Walking Tour Options

Self-guided walks thrive through Vila Vella and along Camí de Ronda sections.
Local guided tours depart from the main square or tourist office.
These tours offer historical and cultural insights into the town.
Explore hidden gems with expert local guidance.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

Bike Lanes

Tossa de Mar has limited dedicated bike lanes within the town itself.

Cycling is popular on certain Camí de Ronda sections.
Quieter roads in surrounding countryside.
Cadiretes mountains suitable for experienced riders.

Safety Concerns

When cycling on roads, always be aware of vehicle traffic.

Wearing a Helmet is required for safety.
Be visible to drivers, especially at dusk.
Adhere to Spanish traffic laws.

Rental Programs

Tossa de Mar lacks formal bicycle sharing programs.

Several local shops offer bicycle rentals.
Rent road bikes, mountain bikes, and electric bikes.
Hourly or daily rates available.

No-Go Areas & Caution Zones

General Precautions

No specific "no-go" areas exist for pedestrians and cyclists.
Exercise caution on busy roads outside the town center.
Some Camí de Ronda sections are rugged, better suited for experienced hikers.

Specific Challenges

Dedicated pedestrian or cycling paths may be absent on some routes.
Always remain vigilant of traffic, even on smaller roads.
Follow all local signage for safety and permissible access.

Specialized Transportation

Beyond standard options, Tossa de Mar presents unique ways to experience its coastline. While no internal hop-on-hop-off services exist, regional tour buses and boat taxis offer distinct perspectives.

Tour Buses & Day Trips

Tossa de Mar typically lacks internal hop-on-hop-off tour buses.
Regional tour buses bookable for day trips to larger cities like Barcelona or Girona.
Organized transport for major attractions in nearby cities.
Convenient for structured explorations beyond Tossa de Mar.

Boat Taxis & Water Transport

Local boat tours offer a popular way to explore Tossa de Mar's coastline.
Trips to nearby coves like Cala Giverola or Cala Futadera.
Often feature glass bottoms for marine life viewing.
Connections available to Lloret de Mar via water taxi.

Unique Transport

Tossa de Mar lacks cable cars, funiculars, or other unique local transport systems like tuk-tuks or jeepneys.

Coastal Charters

Private boat charters are available for personalized coastal tours or fishing trips.

Accessibility Services

Tossa de Mar's historic cobblestone streets pose challenges for mobility needs; newer areas are flatter.

Local Water Transport Details

Excursion Types

Glass-bottom boat tours for marine observation.
Leisurely coastal cruises for scenic enjoyment.
Direct transport to secluded beaches not accessible by road.

Departure & Bookings

Boats depart regularly from Platja Gran during tourist season.
Tickets purchased at kiosks along the beachfront.
Schedules vary by season and weather conditions.

Navigating Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar's compact nature means walking remains ideal for exploring the town's core. For journeys further afield, a well-developed bus network connects you efficiently to surrounding areas and major cities.

Consider local bicycle rentals for coastal paths, and boat excursions for unique sea views of the stunning coastline. Plan your transport around desired activities and seasonal availability for optimal convenience.

Public Transportation