Have you ever wanted to visit a beautiful place by the sea? Costa Brava is a great choice. It has old Roman buildings, clean beaches, and pretty villages. There's something for everyone here. In this article, we'll take you on a journey to the top 9 towns to visit in Costa Brava, each one a gem in its own right.
Imagine a beautiful coastline that stretches from the famous rock of Sa Palomera to the French border. This is the Costa Brava and Girona coast, a 200km stretch of stunning beaches, quaint fishing villages, and amazing natural scenery. It's a place where you can relax, explore, and soak up the local culture.
The name "Costa Brava" has been used by sailors for a long time. It means "wild coast" in Spanish, and it was given to this area because of its rocky shoreline.
The Costa Brava region is home to a rich history, with many historical sites that tell the story of its past. From Arab baths to medieval cemeteries, and from archaeological sites to churches and shelters, there's no shortage of fascinating places to explore.
The region has been inhabited by many different cultures, including the Indo-European peoples, who left behind Neolithic tombs dating back to 2500 BC.
This area was also an important stage for war operations, including the Punic Wars between the Carthaginians and Romans, and the conquest of Girona by the Muslims.
The Costa Brava is a treasure trove of medieval towns, stunning beaches, and delicious seafood. This beautiful region in Spain is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of the Mediterranean.
With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and warm climate, the Costa Brava is the perfect place to relax and unwind.
Begur is a charming coastal town in the Baix Empordà region of Girona, Catalonia. The town has a population of 4,309 inhabitants, but swells to 40,000 in the summer season.
Visitors can explore the town's historic center, which features five defense towers built in the 16th and 17th centuries, as well as colonial-style Indian houses and heritage buildings.
You can visit the historic center, including the parish church of Sant Pere de Begur, the Plaça de la Vila, and the municipal market.
The town also features several coves and beaches, such as Racó, Sa Tuna, and Sa Riera, which offer breathtaking views of the Medes Islands.
Visitors can also hike along the Caminos de Ronda, take a viewing point route, or explore the town's many water activities, such as kayaking, diving, or swimming from cove to cove.
In addition to its many attractions, Begur offers a range of activities and experiences. Visitors can take a hot air balloon ride over the Costa Brava, explore the town's medieval villages, or enjoy the local cuisine and wine.
One of the most beautiful towns on the Costa Brava is Blanes. Located near Barcelona, Blanes is a charming town that offers a glimpse into the region's rich history.
The town has the Castell de Sant Joan, which stands over 150 meters high. This is a must-visit attraction that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Visitors can also explore the Hermitage of San Juan de Blanes, a beautiful church that dates back to the 14th century.
Blanes is also famous for its stunning beaches and coves, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Some of the most popular beaches in Blanes include Forcanera, Cala Bona, S'Abanell, and Punta de S'Agulla.
These beaches offer crystal-clear waters, soft sand, and a picturesque backdrop that's perfect for relaxation and recreation.
Located in the rugged Cap de Creus, Cadaqués was isolated until the end of the 19th century, which has helped preserve its original layout and charm.
Today, Cadaqués is a protected historical area and a Cultural Asset of National Interest, making it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Walking through the town's historic centre is a delight, with its unique architecture and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The town's isolation has helped preserve its original character, making it a truly unique and authentic experience for visitors.
Cadaqués is also famous for its stunning beaches and coves, which were a source of inspiration for the brilliant painter Salvador Dalí. The town's rugged coastline, sculpted by the Tramuntana wind, has created a series of breathtaking natural formations that are a sight to behold.
Dalí himself took up residence in the neighbouring town of Portlligat, where he drew inspiration from the stunning natural beauty of the area. Today, visitors can explore the town's beaches, coves, and scenic views, and experience the same inspiration that drove Dalí to create some of his most famous works.
Despite being a popular tourist destination, Calella de Palafrugell has managed to retain its authentic fishing village charm. Its quiet atmosphere and picturesque streets make it a perfect place to relax and unwind.
Walking through the town's cobbled streets is a delight, with small white houses and quaint facades that evoke the feeling of being on a small island.
The town's beautiful beaches are the perfect place to end a leisurely stroll, and in the summer, the popular Cap Roig Music Festival brings the town to life with great music and lively atmosphere.
Calella de Palafrugell is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a tranquil and authentic coastal experience.
The Medes Islands are a popular tourist attraction in the area of L'Estartit and Baix Empordà. This archipelago is located in the middle of the sea, just a few kilometers away from the beach and coast of L'Estartit.
The islands are part of a Natural Park called Parc Natural del Montgrí, de les Illes Medes y del Baix Ter. If you've been to the area, you may have seen the islands up close or even sailed around them with a boat.
The Medes Islands are made up of two main islands, five islets, and other smaller islets. The largest island is Meda Gran, which is easily recognizable due to its size and the presence of a lighthouse, Faro de la Meda.
The second-largest island is Meda Petita, which has a number of caves and grottos on its eastern side. The other islets in the archipelago include Carall Bernat, Tascons Grossos, Tascons Petits, Medallot, and Ferranelles. Each of these islands has its own unique characteristics and features.
The Medes Islands are one of the most important sites of natural interest in the Mediterranean Sea and are a large reserve of marine flora and fauna.
The islands are home to a diverse range of plants and animals, including many species that are found nowhere else in the world. The islands are also a popular destination for scuba diving enthusiasts, who come to explore the underwater caves and grottos.
Figueres is a city located in the northern part of the Costa Brava, near the border with France. It's a must-visit destination for art lovers, foodies, and nature enthusiasts.
The city is home to the famous Dalí Museum, which showcases an impressive collection of works by the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí.
Figueres has a lot to offer, from its charming old town with narrow streets and historic buildings to its 18th-century fortress, the Sant Ferran Castle.
Visitors can explore the castle's underground tunnels and walls, learning about its military history.
The city is also surrounded by beautiful vineyards, which produce some of Catalonia's best wines. You can enjoy wine tours, wine tastings, and outdoor activities like hiking and cycling.
Pals is a charming medieval town located in the Baix Empordà region of Girona, Catalonia. The town is situated on a small hill, about 5 km from the Costa Brava, and is known for its beautiful medieval architecture and panoramic views of the area.
The old town center is a labyrinth of narrow cobbled streets, stone houses, and buildings of great historical and architectural value.
Pals is a treasure trove of history and culture, with many attractions to explore. Visitors can start their visit at Ca la Pruna, a fortified house in Gothic and Renaissance style, which now serves as a cultural center.
From there, they can walk up to the Plaça Major, the main square, where they can see several well-preserved buildings, including the Casa de la Vila from the 13th century.
The medieval core of the town is located in the upper part of the town, where visitors can see the Torre de les Hores, a 15-metre-high Romanesque tower, and the Església de Sant Pere, a church built with the stones of the old castle.
There is a tourist train that offers different route alternatives, and literature lovers can follow an itinerary through the author Josep Pla's readings that were inspired by corners of the town.
Visitors can also enjoy adventure activities such as Segway tours, water sports, and an adventure park with zip lines and walkways.
The town is also a great base for exploring the Empordà and Girona regions, with many cycling and hiking routes to discover. And if the weather is nice, visitors can drive to the coast and enjoy the large beach of Pals, with its urbanized area and privileged views of the Medes Islands.
Roses, a city located in the Costa Brava region of Spain, owes its origin to the Greek colony of Rhode. This founding nucleus took advantage of the privileged location of this territory, which has become a setting for water sports and a home to the fishing port and marina.
In Roses, nature and culture come together in a unique way. The city is surrounded by natural parks such as Cabo de Creus and Aiguamolls del Empordà, which offer stunning views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
The urban centre of Roses is also home to several cultural attractions, including the Visigothic Castrum of Puig Rom and the impressive Citadel of Roses.
The city is also known for its rich culinary tradition, which has given rise to internationally renowned chefs such as Ferran Adrià. The local cuisine is heavily influenced by the sea, and visitors can enjoy a variety of seafood dishes in the many restaurants and bars in the city.
Tossa de Mar is one of the most iconic and photographed towns on the Costa Brava. Its stunning fortified medieval centre, declared a National Historic-Artistic Monument, is a major draw for visitors.
The town's unique location, perched on a hilltop and surrounded by cliffs and coves, makes it a breathtakingly beautiful destination.
You can explore the medieval centre, visit the Roman Villa of Els Ametllers, and enjoy the town's many cultural attractions.
Tossa de Mar offers a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike or mountain bike through the town's scenic trails, while water sports enthusiasts can dive or snorkel in the crystal-clear waters.
Overall, Costa Brava is a coastal paradise that will leave you enchanted and inspired. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, this incredible region has something for every kind of traveler. From the picturesque towns to the beautiful beaches, every moment in Costa Brava is a chance to experience the authentic charm of Spain.
If you're eager to explore more of what Costa Brava has to offer, stay tuned for our next article, where we'll delve deeper into the region's hidden gems, secret beaches, and local traditions.
Follow us for more travel inspiration, insider tips, and stunning photos of this incredible region!
