Last updated: November 2017
Heading North of Barcelona you’ll find the stunning Costa Brava beaches, which stretch along the coastline until Catalonia reaches France. The picturesque towns on the Costa Brava are popular summer holiday destinations attracting visitors from all around the world. If you’re planning a holiday in Barcelona, or a getaway in the Catalonian sun, take advantage of the Costa Brava’s close proximity and stay in one of these beautiful seaside locations. It’s also possible to go for a Costa Brava day trip from Barcelona, but you’ll be glad of the extra time if you’re able visit for a bit longer.
1. Large it in Lloret de Mar: Best nightlife in the Costa Brava
This popular Catalan seaside resort is a favourite with the British summer holiday crowd. Its sandy beaches get pretty crowded during peak season and its easy to see why. Nightlife in Lloret de Mar is varied and lively, with many bars and nightclubs staying open until the small hours. Look out for the summer program of entertainment and concerts on the beach.
Lloret’s old town is worth exploring thoroughly as there are some beautiful old buildings here. The Gothic church of Sant Romà was built between 1509 and 1522 and has some magnificent art works inside. Going even further back you’ll find the 11th century castle of Sant Joan which was used as a fortress to defend the town from pirate attacks and invasions from the Turkish, English and French forces.
2. Experience Tossa de Mar and its Medieval fortress
The long beach of Tossa del Mar is one of the most photographed images of the Costa Brava. There’s a long promenade with restaurants that specialize in seafood, paellas and local dishes, where visitors can enjoy a delicious meal in the open air terraces. Plenty of bars and cafés also offer refreshments with a great view. To the right of the beach you can see the remains of the medieval walled city, Vila Vella, which dates back to the 13th century.
Follow the path that winds up the hills and you’ll reach Tossa de Mar’s watchtower, with its panoramic views. On the other side of the medieval town there’s a smaller beach, with deep green waters surrounded by rocks. This is a great place to lay down your towel and relax.
3. Discover Begur’s hidden coves and azure waters
Continuing along the Costa Brava seafront you’ll reach Begur, a small town in the heart of the Empordà region which is surrounded by pine forests. Begur has countless little rocky coves to explore, and if you’re lucky you might even find your own private little cove!
The town also has a rich history. Most remarkable of all are the five defence towers built between the 16th and 17th centuries. There is a medieval castle near the old town centre. Summer activities and concerts are often organised here, and are a perfect way to enjoy a balmy evening.
4. Explore L’Escala’s Greek and Roman ruins
The stunning beaches of L’Escala extend on either side of the town centre. There is a tourist train that takes visitors along the coastline to some of the most popular beaches. If you’re interested in classical history you should definitely plan a visit here, as there is an important archaeological site with remains of both an old Roman town and a Greek town. Artifacts uncovered are displayed in an on-site museum, which offers a fascinating insight into the rich history of the region and its significance in the Iberian peninsula.
Make sure you sample the anchovies, a local Costa Brava speciality which is exported throughout Spain and beyond. They are best enjoyed on a slice of typical “pan con tomate,” crusty bread drizzled with olive oil and rubbed with fresh tomato.
5. Visit magical Cadaqués and discover Dalí’s legacy
This little fishing town of Cadaqués on the Costa Brava is synonymous with Salvador Dalí, who spent many summers here. Don’t miss the Casa Museu Salvador Dalí in Portligat, just above the town. Other notable artists and intellectuals who visited Cadaqués regularly include Joan Miró, Pablo Picasso and Marcel Duchamp.
Even today it retains a bohemian ambience, and its many little galleries are bursting with new talent. As you wander the narrow streets you’ll see lots of artisan workshops and pretty boutiques and of course many delightful restaurants.
Accommodation in Costa Brava
You can also rent an apartment on the Costa Brava and explore its different beaches and many historical sites along the coast. Choose a holiday apartment that meets your requirements; perhaps a large villa with a swimming pool for a group of friends, a comfortable family flat near the beach, or an intimate apartment for a romantic weekend in the sunshine. Your unforgettable summer break starts with finding the right Costa Brava holiday rental property from Apartment Barcelona!
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