
Costa Brava
Enjoy beaches with crystal-clear water
Have you ever seen those postcard pictures of Europe's Mediterranean coast? Enjoy beaches with crystal-clear water on the Costa Brava.
It starts about 75 kilometres north of Barcelona, in Blanes, and ends at the French border, in PortBou. There are over 200 kilometres of coastline with whitewashed Mediterranean villages, secluded beaches, pine forests on the edge of the sea, steep cliffs and much more wonderful scenery. You'll see why the Mediterranean is known as the bluest sea.
To get the most out of your trip, stop off in Figueres, birthplace of the painter Salvador Dalí, where we recommend the Dalí Theatre-Museum. This is one of the largest three-dimensional surrealist spaces in the world, with many of the artist's works. You can also go off the beaten track to visit Girona, one of the most romantic cities in Catalonia.
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HOW TO VISIT THE COSTA BRAVA?
You can take a guided tour starting in Barcelona. You'll find many options, such as day trips to medieval coastal villages or boat trips. You can also hire a car to explore the different beaches or use public transport. Once there, enjoy the hidden coves of one of Europe's most famous coastlines on foot along the way.
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WHAT TO VISIT IN GIRONA?
While you are staying on the Costa Brava, you can take a trip to the city of Girona, which is 45 minutes by car from Figueres and 1 hour and 15 minutes from Barcelona. You can also get there by bus. You can visit the Arab Baths, the houses on the Onyar river that can be seen from the Eiffel bridge (imagined by Gustave Eiffel, the creator of the Eiffel Tower in Paris), and the Cathedral. You can also climb up to the Wall and see the city from above. If you want to go out for a drink, you can do so on the Rambla, a boulevard full of restaurants, bars and small boutiques. In the city centre, you'll also find major brand-name shops. Generally speaking, you can visit the city in a day.
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WHAT TO VISIT IN FIGUERES?
Salvador Dalí was born in this city, which is 1 hour and 45 minutes by car from Barcelona. You must visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which is an artistic journey through the painter's life. You can also visit the Castle of Sant Ferran or the Toy Museum or the Rambla (where you can sit and have a drink in one of its bars or restaurants).
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WHICH COASTAL TOWNS ARE NOT TO BE MISSED?
Cadaqués
It is said to be one of the most beautiful villages in Spain. It still has its fishing village feel, with its whitewashed houses and narrow streets. It is also surrounded by the beautiful landscape of the Cap de Creus Natural Park.
Begur
A small village hidden away on the Costa Brava with a medieval castle from the 16th century, located in the highest part of the village, which is a must-see. You can also visit the coves of Illa Roja, Sa Tuna and Aiguablava.
Tossa de Mar
A medieval village with a castle and a magical historic centre. You can visit the famous statue of the Hollywood actress Ava Gardner, who in 1950 spent a few days in the village filming the movie "Pandora and the Flying Dutchman".
Tamariu
An urban nucleus made up of narrow streets, typical of an old fishing village, its charm makes it well worth a visit. Its beaches and coves, such as Aigua Xelida, are the town's main attraction.
Calella de Palafrugell
Still retains the charm of the coastal villages of yesteryear. It has small coves and a castle. It is an ideal place for cycling excursions.
Calonge and Sant Antoni
Calonge is about 4 kilometres inland and is the medieval centre of the town, where the old castle of the village is located. Sant Antoni, on the other hand, is the village that touches the coast, with the most visited coves of the Costa Brava.
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CAN I SWIM FOR FREE?
Yes, in most of the coves that make up the Costa Brava, although some of them have to be paid for during the summer season. If you don't want to swim, many of them have beach bars or bars nearby, so you can enjoy the sea breeze from your table.
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WHERE CAN I GO TO EAT ALONG THE COSTA BRAVA?
The province of Girona is home to some great restaurants that you can't miss out on. In the city of Girona you will find "El Celler de Can Roca", one of the best restaurants in the world with 3 Michelin stars. You can consult more dining options here.
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WHAT IF I WANT TO GO SHOPPING?
The towns and villages of the Costa Brava have small boutiques: some with internationally renowned brands and others that are more alternative, for everyone. There are also artisan businesses so that you can take home a souvenir of the Costa Brava.