12 Coastal Towns in Girona – Brimming with Costa Brava Charm

Begin with Tossa de Mar, a perfect first stop on your Costa Brava route. camí de ronda runs along the coast, guiding you past stone-paved lanes to a beautiful harbour where boats drift beside sandy beaches. That vibe echoes in tossa and carries into the other charming destinations along the coast.

Across the coastline you’ll find massif hills, pine forests, and volcanic-toned sunsets that tint the mediterranean horizon. Each stop blends mediterranean flavors with stone architecture and lively bustling markets that fill evenings with music and scent.

In these towns you can ride trips by kayak along sheltered coves, savor wild seafood markets, and stroll the harbour promenades after a day’s river stroll. The coast offers destinations that pair historical charm with modern galleries, where a small homenaje to local crafts sits beside contemporary cafés.

Where to stay matters: pick boutique inns or a yelloh camping village near the sea for easy access to beaches and markets. Many places provide terraces that frame boats bobbing in the harbour and evenings scented with salt air.

Plan your route along the camí de ronda segments that connect towns via cliff paths, pausing to sample seafood in each of these destinations and to linger at a sunset overlook. A compact itinerary lets you cover the coast from Blanes to L’Escala in 3–5 days, balancing bustling harbours with quiet coves and letting the mediterranean vibe guide the destinations along the coast.

Costa Brava Travel Plan: Girona Towns & 11 Best Places to Visit

Rent a car in Girona and start in the Barri Vell, where the past meets today in a compact, walkable core. Choose a village vila as a base, then switch to a coastal rental for momentum along those coasts that define the Costa Brava. The northeastern segment of the Empordá region boasts exquisite scenery, vineyards, and a rhythm that invites you to relax after a day of exploration. This plan blends medieval streets, dramatic headlands, and sea-front trails across a handful of towns whose character has shaped Catalonia for centuries, seen most clearly in whitewashed houses, narrow lanes, and lively market squares.

Begin with Girona’s medieval charm, then move along the coast to coves and towns where the sea writes the story. Cap de Creus rises from the water like a natural sculpture, and Cadaqués glistens with sea breeze and white façades. Besalú and Pals reveal a different side of the same region, where centuries of craft linger in stone, stone arches, and well-preserved town walls. Valleys, olive groves, and selva pockets line the route, while vineyards tuck into gentle hills that meet the green of the coast. Those routes cross scenic routes and offer a mix of beaches, markets, and local festivals that make every stop feel locally rooted and distinctly Costa Brava.

To maximize value, plan 4–5 days with a mix of compact day trips and longer, scenic drives. For accommodations, look for rentals in small towns away from the densest beaches to soak up authentic atmosphere, then book a couple of nights in a bustling coastal town when you want nightlife and easy access to the sea. Arrive early to beat the crowds at places like Cap de Creus and the Dalí sites, and reserve a seat at a seaside festival or a wine tasting in Empordá when available–these moments feel truly regional, something you’ll remember long after you leave. The plan is designed to cover those highlights across the region, with options to extend if you wish to linger by the water or revisit a favorite cove.

Practical tips: start and end in a city with good rail links (Giron or Figueres offer connections), then use car rentals for day trips to the coastline. Pack light layers for sea breezes and a map or offline guidance for coastal lanes. In this area, the coast is never far, and even a short detour reveals a different face of the same character, whether you’re pausing for a village market or a picnic overlooking the cliffs. If you’re traveling with family, consider a longer stay in Begur or Palafrugell, where you can base in a vila and launch day trips to coves like Aiguablava or Calella de Palafrugell. For wine lovers, the Empordá wine regions offer tastings and cellar tours that pair beautifully with a sunset by the sea. Marine views, cultural sites, and natural reserves all come together in a plan that’s easy to tailor, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to rediscover a favorite in a new light.

7-Day Coastal Itinerary: Town-By-Town Highlights and Travel Pace

Begin in begur, which sits at the heart of the Costa Brava, and set a steady pace: two days here anchor the week with light coastal walks and easy beach time. Climb the medieval castle viewpoint, then wander the Sa Tuna and Aiguablava coves by foot or short taxi rides. End Day 1 with a sunset dinner along the harbor of a nearby town, where boats slip past the breakwater.

Day 2 shifts to Pals and Palafrugell, where cobbled streets lead to mansions and small plazas. In Pals, stroll the defended old town and circular plaza, then drive to Calella de Palafrugell or Llafranc for a boat ride along the coast and to explore nearby areas for more coves. Finish with a sunset walk along the harbor to cap the day.

Day 3 centers on Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, and Tamariu. Take a morning beach walk, then a short boat hop between coves or rent a kayak if possible. Cap Roig Gardens in the Calella area offer a midday stop with plantings and sea views. In Tamariu, order a seafood lunch at a family-run restaurant near the port and return along the coastal path for a well-paced afternoon.

Day 4 includes a visit to Sant Feliu de Guíxols. The Monestir de Sant Feliu sits above the town and anchors a calm morning. Afterward, explore the promenade and the port, where a small community of fishers and artists keeps the town lively. If time allows, swing by a local gallery and sample regional ceramics.

Day 5 takes you to Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar, two towns that bookend the mid-coastal stretch. In Tossa, walk the Vila Vella fortress walls and wander the casco antiguo; in Lloret de Mar, the modern beachfront and historic towers offer contrasts. Schedule a sunset drink on the promenade, with the last light over the sea reflecting on whitewashed façades.

Day 6 moves to Palamós and Calonge. Palamós port remains a working hub where you can taste the day’s catch, with a handful of seafood houses lining the shore. In Calonge, the hilltop castle and hillside mansions give you a sense of old Europe; stroll the town squares, then finish with a coastal wine at a lookout point that frames the coastline in warm tones.

Day 7 rounds off in Cadaqués and Portlligat near Cap de Creus. Cadaqués is renowned across europe as a painterly town, with white-washed lanes and a pebbled beach that feels intimate despite its fame. Consider a morning boat trip to Cap de Creus, then return to the town to trace the footsteps of artists who once came here. For a final memory, search shutterstock collections credited to franganillo or check with a friend named chris, and plan a photo at the harbor as the light fades.

Best Bases by Town: Where to Stay for Accessibility and Budget

calella de Palafrugell is the ideal first base for those prioritizing accessibility and budget. The town’s compact center keeps beaches within a short walk, while affordable guesthouses and small apartments help you manage the break without overspending. A short stroll to sandy coves and a quick hop to the marina in nearby towns keeps your options open, and a day’s plan can simply visit the coastline without long transfers.

In Tossa de Mar you’ll find a lively scene and great value. Book a guesthouse near the old walls for easy visit to the castle and a broad, sandy beach, with options that stay friendly to budgets. Those staying here appreciate a practical style of lodging that leaves room for meals along the shore and a relaxed evening break; if you’re looking for variety, this base easily fits.

Roses offers an expansive waterfront with a marina and plenty of pristine coves. Budget stays cluster near the harbor, and many apartments sit within easy reach of the beach and the bus line. For interest in coastal scenery, a day trip to Cap de Creus is a popular add-on, and creus becomes a frequent reference in guides. A tip from maría, a local host, and from chris shows that staying here keeps you close to the water and the town’s calm vibe.

Pals presents an ideal balance of cost and access to the Costa Brava’s wide coastline. The Platja de Pals is an expansive sandy stretch nearby, and the old town offers budget studios and guesthouses with a village style that suits those seeking a tranquil break. Those exploring interest in medieval layout will notice the line of white-washed walls and a calm rhythm in the streets, which were designed for slow mornings and easy strolls; if you’re looking for Cala proximity, a stay near cala Aiguablava can also work nicely.

Begur is a smart anchor for exploring coves like Aiguablava and Sa Riera. Stay in a mid-range apartment in the town center to reach the beaches with a short walk or ride, keeping costs reasonable outside peak weeks. The style here blends rustic charm with modern comfort, and the nearby coves remain within easy reach for a half-day excursion that never feels rushed.

Estartit suits families and divers who want a tranquil base with protected shores. Pick a sea-view apartment near the harbor to maximize access to the Islas Medes reserve without a big budget hit. The town’s bus line and short drives connect you to the Cap de Creus region, making day trips simple and efficient; today, this base remains popular for those seeking ease and quiet on the coast.

Cadaqués stands out for pristine scenery and a classic Costa Brava character. Budget stays exist, but they fill up in summer; look for small guesthouses near the bay to easily visit the old town on foot and to visit the Cap de Creus area. For visitors with a wide range of interests, Cadaqués remains ideal, with a compact center and a welcoming, photo-worthy street style; maría would often recommend a calm morning stroll before the crowds arrive.

Blanes provides solid value and strong transport links from Barcelona, making it a practical base for wider exploration. The old town is walkable, the long sandy strand invites quick breaks, and a marina district offers options for those who want water views without premium rates. With frequent lines to nearby towns, Blanes makes it easy to extend your visit without big transfers and lets you sample different coastal vibes in a single trip.

Palamós delivers a reliable harbor scene with fresh seafood, a range of budget studios, and a straightforward path to the Costa Brava’s northern coast. The marina area and the walkable beachfront keep everything efficient for travelers who value accessibility, while a quick ride can connect you to Cala and Llafranc for a day of additional coves and views.

Getting Between Towns: Transport Options, Schedules, and Tips

Take rail along the coast and pair with short local buses to hop between coast settlements with speed and ease. Whether youre moving between Blanes and Lloret de Mar, Platja d’Aro and Tossa de Mar, or continuing toward Cadaqués, this combo minimizes road delays and keeps schedules predictable.

Rail options connect Girona and the coastline with regular regional services. Trains run roughly every 30-60 minutes in peak season and every 1-2 hours outside peak. A typical trip: Girona to Blanes around 40-50 minutes; Blanes to Lloret de Mar about 15-25 minutes; Lloret de Mar to Tossa de Mar often via a short transfer. If barcelona serves as the starting point, take a regional service to the coast, then switch to a local bus to reach the final stop. The rail spine links historic sites and natural scenery along the route.

Bus lines along the district connect Lloret de Mar, Blanes, Platja d’Aro, Palamós, and Begur, with SARFA and Sagalés offering frequent summer services. In high season headways are 20-60 minutes; in winter, they stretch to 2-3 hours. Typical hops: Lloret de Mar to Tossa de Mar about 20-25 minutes; Platja d’Aro to Palamós around 25-30 minutes, often passing a sheltered cove. Tickets can be bought on board or online; many operators accept contactless cards or mobile wallets.

Car rental unlocks freedom to reach coves and sandy platja along the peninsula. Parking in central zones can fill up in peak months, so plan ahead and use municipal lots. Coastal roads hug cliffs and swing along coves, offering dramatic views of volcanic rock and natural scenery. A coastal bike route runs along the coast, with shaded stretches under pine canopies and occasional inland climbs toward pyrenees foothills. For a day, pair a coast ride with an inland detour toward the pyrenees for a mix of natural and historic vibes.

Along the coast, settlements reveal culture and historic architecture. fishermens boats anchor at sheltered coves while roig-painted houses line lanes. In dalí-inspired hubs near Figueres and along the peninsula you can encounter dalí-influenced art. Platja scenery and coves frame relaxed strolls; sandy shores widen into wild coastlines. The route highlights natural landscapes, volcanic rock, and panoramic views, with attractions along spains coast waiting to be explored. barcelona serves as a starting point for a loop that blends culture, art, and sea life with a hopeful cadence.

Timetables change with seasons; check online calendars at SARFA and Renfe. To maximize time, plan a two-town loop early in the day, then linger in a single settlement for lunch and a stroll. Carry water and sunscreen; prepare for sea breeze along the coast. If youre short on time, select a single leg with a midday break; otherwise enjoy a longer route that hits a sandy platja, a cove, and a historic quarter in one day. Skip busy periods by starting pre-dawn or late afternoon, and remember: some services close during siesta hours.

Must-Try Dining Trail: Signature Dishes and Local Food Stops

Begin at the Sant Feliu de Guíxols marina in Catalonia, where suquet de peix and gambas de Palamós set the Mediterranean mood. From the turquoise shore, youre walking the popular streets toward inviting harbor taverns, and you come away with a real sense of the area’s environment, beauty, and authentic Spanish flavors.

1. Sant Feliu de Guíxols, marina edge – Start with suquet de peix at a waterfront tavern, then nab fried anchovies and a scoop of alioli. If youre visiting, pick a terrace that overlooks the park and watch the bustle along the shore.
2. Palamós – Sample gambas de Palamós straight from the dockside stalls, then try arroz a banda at a sea-front restaurant where the broth carries the aroma of the harbor. Some spots offer a small tasting menu that pairs fish soups with briny notes.
3. Calella de Palafrugell / Begur area – Enjoy romesco sauce with grilled fish, pa amb tomaquet, and a light fideuà on a terrace along a triangle of narrow streets near the shore. This area is popular for sunset meals and calm sea views.
4. Cadaqués – Dorada a la sal or suquet de peix paired with a lemony alioli; finish with crema catalana as you stroll the white-washed lanes that lead toward the turquoise bay.
5. Roses – Paella marinera or fideuà beside the beach, followed by a cafe con hielo on a busy promenade. The town remains inviting for a second stop, especially for those coming from Barcelona and craving a coastal bite before nightfall.
6. Tossa de Mar – Calamars a la planxa and mussels in white wine, served at a sheltered cove restaurant near the old town walls, where the breeze keeps the flavors lively and the mood bustling.
7. Additional tip – If you have time, weave in a quick stroll along the turquoise beach paths and choose a couple of different spots on the way back to feel the full environment. Having a small tasting menu in each town lets you compare the Spanish coastal approach from one harbor to the next, and you’ll notice how the region’s coastal flavors travel from the marina to the market, then out to the shore.

Seasonal Planner: Weather, Crowds, and Active Activities by Month

January recommendation: base in lloret for a tranquil, off-season escape where the platja are peaceful, protected botanical corners invite quiet strolls, and the view of the coasts feels magnificent. Daytime highs hover around 12–15 C, with brisk sea winds keeping evenings cool. Crowds shrink to a fraction of summer, letting you map a right balance of movement and rest among nearby points of interest. Add a scenic river walk inland, then join local artists for a morning gallery stroll in the heart of the province.

February keeps crowds low and offers comfortable hiking conditions along cliffs and forested paths near the coast. Expect 11–14 C by day and misty mornings that clear by late morning. Where the wind shifts, you’ll find sheltered spots for a quiet view from viewpoints above the coasts. There’s time to explore botanical collections in protected parks, and you can plan a winter trip with Chris, a local guide who knows hidden viewpoints and the best spots to avoid crowds.

March warms gradually, bringing longer days and the first hints of spring color. Temperatures move into the 14–18 C range, and you’ll notice ore of the famous scent of wild herbs along the coastal trails. Nearby towns like tossa and lloret awaken with small, right-sized gatherings–perfect for a relaxed stroll between viewpoints and centuries-old walls. Plan a day trip along the river valley and add a visit to a small painting studio where artists share stories of the heart of coast life.

April opens ferrata routes with cautious enthusiasm, as rock faces become more accessible and weather stays mild. Daytime temps climb to 15–20 C, ideal for active days that mix cliff routes with sheltered botanical gardens. You’ll find fewer crowds than summer, but plenty of photo-worthy moments along the coasts and protected promontories. Choose a guided climb with a local firma that offers safe routes and a scenic view of nearby towns and the sea.

May signals the sweet spot: more sun, comfortable heat, and a gentle uptick in visitors. Expect 18–24 C during the day; evenings feel pleasant for waterfront strolls. The famous coasts host more activity, yet you can still find tranquil corners near platja where the water sparkles and the air smells of pine. Plan a multiple-stop trip to tossa and lloret, checking out points of interest, a quick river-side walk, and a small art show that highlights local chris-named guides.

June marks the start of peak shoulder-season crowds, but you can still pace your days with early starts. Day temperatures range 22–28 C, perfect for long beach walks and cliff-top hikes. Book a ferrata session for the first week to catch the best light on the rocks, then cool off with a dip at a sheltered platja. The province comes alive with markets and music, yet it remains easy to find tranquil nooks where you can watch the view unfold along the coasts and listen to the ocean’s rhythm.

July brings clear skies, heat, and lively beaches. Plan sunrise runs along the water before the crowds arrive, then switch to gentle afternoons exploring nearby towns and protected parks. Expect 26–32 C; plan shade and hydration, and consider a family-friendly river trip or a boat glide to see the coastline from the water. Whether you stay in lloret or head to tossa, you’ll discover that the coast offers many points of interest with a right mix of energy and relaxation.

August concentrates the highest tourism, so start days early and explore away from the busiest plaja hours. Temperatures stay hot, 28–34 C, and crowds peak on weekends. If you need relief, choose ferrata routes with early starts or switch to water-based activities around sheltered coves. There’s plenty of culture in nearby towns, and you can enjoy performances by local artists in open-air spaces, keeping the heart of the coast vibrant without overloading your schedule.

September temperatures ease to a comfortable 22–28 C, and crowds thin enough to enjoy longer stays with more spontaneity. It’s an ideal time for a relaxed trip that pairs a botanical garden visit with a ferry ride along the coastline. There’s more time to savor view-heavy walks in the protected green belts and to base yourself in lloret or tossa for day trips to nearby coasts and plateaus. Add a sunset trip with a guide who highlights less-known viewpoints–the additions to your itinerary feel effortless.

October settles into mild days and breezy evenings, perfect for cycling along flat courses and wind-swept trails. Daytime temperatures hover around 18–22 C; crowds are gentler, making it easy to visit coasts, riverside paths, and the medieval lanes of nearby towns. You’ll enjoy longer museum hours, a few autumn art shows, and chats with artists about seasonal landscapes, which enrich any coastal plan in this province.

November turns quieter still, with cooler mornings and occasional rain. Expect 12–16 C during the day, and use this month to collect warm-weather memories from indoor studios and outdoor botanical pockets. If you’re chasing fewer people, this is the time to revisit tossa, lloret, and platja without pressure while planning a serene river walk and a short, scenic drive to viewpoints overlooking the sea. There’s a steady trickle of cultural events that can synchronize with a relaxed trip routine.

December closes the year with festive touches and cooler, comfortable days–great for a restorative coastal escape. Day temps about 12–15 C, evenings crisp but manageable with a light jacket. The coasts feel intimate, and you’ll find a slow pace that suits long view sessions from protected terraces and harbor viewpoints. An addition to your plan could be a short year-end trip with a local guide chris to map out a favorite route across tossa and lloret, ending with hot chocolate beside a softly lit platja.