Costa Brava, Spain Travel Guide

Discover Costa Brava: A stunning Spanish coastline with rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, medieval villages, and rich cultural heritage. Ideal for both relaxation and adventure.

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Costa Brava

Costa Brava, located in the northeastern part of Spain, is a stunning stretch of coastline that captivates visitors with its natural beauty. Known for its rugged cliffs, golden sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters, Costa Brava offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure. The region stretches from Blanes to the French border, providing a variety of landscapes and experiences for every traveler. The region is also steeped in history and culture, with charming medieval villages like Tossa de Mar and Pals. These picturesque towns offer narrow cobblestone streets, ancient castles, and traditional Spanish architecture. Costa Brava is also famous for its culinary delights, with fresh seafood and Catalan dishes that tantalize the taste buds. Each town and village has its own local markets, where you can sample regional products and immerse yourself in the local lifestyle. Costa Brava's natural parks and reserves, such as Cap de Creus and Aiguamolls de l'Empordà, are perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. These areas offer hiking trails, bird-watching spots, and breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea. For art lovers, the region is closely associated with Salvador Dalí, and you can visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres, his house in Portlligat, and the Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol. Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a cultural experience, or an adventure in nature, Costa Brava has something to offer everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Costa Brava.

Visit in the shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) for fewer crowds and pleasant weather.
Renting a car is recommended to explore the region's hidden gems and remote beaches.
Don't miss the local markets for fresh produce and authentic Catalan products.
Pack comfortable shoes for exploring the medieval villages and hiking trails.
Try the local seafood dishes, especially in coastal towns like Palamós and L'Escala.

Explore Costa Brava: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Costa Brava

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Muralles de Tossa de Mar

Discover the Muralles de Tossa de Mar, a historical fortress with breathtaking views and rich Catalan heritage, perfect for every traveler.

4.7

Ruïnes d'Empúries - Museu Arqueològic

Uncover the rich history of the ancient Greeks and Romans at the Ruïnes d'Empúries, a must-visit archaeological site in L'Escala, Girona.

4.6

Water World Parc

Experience the ultimate aquatic adventure at Water World Parc, a captivating water park in Lloret de Mar for all ages.

4.2

Gardens of Saint Clotilde

Explore the serene beauty of the Gardens of Saint Clotilde in Lloret de Mar, where nature and artistry create a tranquil escape with stunning Mediterranean views.

4.5

Best landmarks in Costa Brava

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Best Landmarks

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Muralles de Tossa de Mar

Discover the history and stunning views at the Muralles de Tossa de Mar, a captivating medieval fortress along the beautiful Costa Brava.

4.7

Gardens of Saint Clotilde

Explore the Gardens of Saint Clotilde in Lloret de Mar, where lush landscapes meet stunning Mediterranean views, creating a serene retreat for every traveler.

4.5

Pont de les Peixateries Velles

Discover the stunning beauty of the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, an iconic Girona bridge offering picturesque views and rich cultural heritage.

4.5

Begur's Castle

Experience the historical charm and breathtaking views of Begur's Castle, a captivating attraction in the heart of Catalonia's Costa Brava.

4.4

Best restaurants in Costa Brava

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Mooma

Experience authentic Catalan cuisine at Mooma - your gateway to local flavors and refreshing ciders in beautiful Girona.

4.7

El Celler de Can Roca

Experience innovative Catalan cuisine at El Celler de Can Roca in Girona – where tradition meets modern gastronomy.

4.8

Restaurant Solimar (platja del Racó)

Discover Mediterranean delights at Restaurant Solimar in Platja del Racó – where culinary tradition meets stunning coastal views.

4.3

Restaurant Fiego

Discover the best Mediterranean dining experience at Restaurant Fiego in Calella de Palafrugell, featuring fresh seafood and traditional Spanish flavors.

4.5

Best bars in Costa Brava

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Cala Banys

Experience the perfect blend of vibrant cocktails and stunning coastal views at Cala Banys in Lloret de Mar.

4.5

Hôtel Costa Brava

Experience authentic Spanish flavors and a vibrant atmosphere at Hôtel Costa Brava, your go-to bar and tapas restaurant in Platja d'Aro.

4.2

McKiernans

Discover the lively atmosphere and traditional charm of McKiernans, Girona's favorite Irish pub for locals and travelers alike.

4.2

Sunset Jazz Club

Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of live jazz while enjoying gourmet cheese and exquisite cocktails at Sunset Jazz Club in Girona.

4.5

Best nightclubs in Costa Brava

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Disco Tropics

Experience the electrifying nightlife at Disco Tropics in Lloret de Mar, where vibrant beats and dazzling lights create unforgettable memories.

4.2

Passarel·la Empuriabrava

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Passarel·la Empuriabrava, where dance, music, and unforgettable experiences await.

3.9

Alcatraz

Discover Alcatraz, a premier disco club in Lloret de Mar, where unforgettable nights and vibrant experiences await party enthusiasts and tourists alike.

4.2

Revolution Disco

Dive into the vibrant nightlife at Revolution Disco, Lloret de Mar's premier disco club with electrifying music and unforgettable parties.

3.9

Best shops in Costa Brava

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Espai Gironès

Discover the ultimate shopping experience at Espai Gironès, Girona’s top shopping mall with diverse brands, dining, and family-friendly entertainment.

4.2

Mercat Blanes

Discover the vibrant Mercat Blanes, a fresh food market in Girona, where local flavors and culinary delights await every visitor.

4.0

Costa Brava Bulevard

Explore Costa Brava Bulevard, a shopping paradise in Palafrugell, Girona, offering diverse shops, dining, and entertainment for an unforgettable experience.

4.2

JYSK

Explore stylish furniture and home essentials at JYSK, the premier destination for decor in Vilatenim, Girona.

4.2

Explore Costa Brava on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Costa Brava, mapped for you.

Costa Brava Essentials

Costa Brava is located in the northeastern region of Spain, along the coast of Catalonia. The nearest major airport is Girona-Costa Brava Airport, which is well-connected to various European destinations. Alternatively, you can fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which is about 1.5 to 2 hours away by car or train. From these airports, you can rent a car, take a bus, or use a train to reach your destination within Costa Brava.
Costa Brava offers a variety of transportation options. Renting a car is a popular choice for exploring the region at your own pace. There are also reliable bus services that connect the major towns and tourist attractions. Trains are available for travel between larger towns and cities. For shorter distances, taxis and bicycles are convenient options.
The official currency in Spain is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller towns or rural areas. Keep in mind that some smaller businesses may prefer cash payments.
Costa Brava is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is important to take standard precautions to avoid petty crimes like pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as markets and tourist attractions. Avoid displaying expensive items and keep your belongings secure. While there are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.
In case of emergency, dial 112 for immediate assistance. This number connects you to police, fire, and medical services. Hospitals and medical facilities are available in the major towns and cities of Costa Brava. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are common and can provide over-the-counter medications for minor health issues.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably but modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'Hola' and a handshake. A kiss on both cheeks is a common greeting among friends. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and specialties. Don't rush through meals; dining is often a leisurely activity in Spain.
To experience Costa Brava like a local, visit the weekly markets in towns like Palafrugell and Tossa de Mar, where you can buy fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional foods. Engage with locals and don't hesitate to ask for recommendations. Explore hidden coves and beaches that are less frequented by tourists. Don't miss the opportunity to try 'pa amb tomàquet' (bread with tomato) and fresh seafood from local restaurants.

When is the best time to visit Costa Brava?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Costa Brava

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Costa Brava. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHola
  [oh-lah]
- GoodbyeAdiós
  [ah-dyohs]
- YesSí
  [see]
- NoNo
  [noh]
- Please/You're welcomePor favor/De nada
  [por fah-vor/de nah-dah]
- Thank youGracias
  [grah-thyas]
- Excuse me/SorryPerdón/Lo siento
  [pehr-dohn/loh syehn-toh]
- How are you?¿Cómo estás?
  [koh-moh ehs-tahs]
- Fine. And you?Bien. ¿Y tú?
  [byen. ee too]
- Do you speak English?¿Hablas inglés?
  [ah-blahs een-glehs]
- I don't understandNo entiendo
  [noh ehn-tyen-doh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMe gustaría ver la carta, por favor
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah vehr lah kahr-tah, por fah-vor]
- I don't eat meatNo como carne
  [noh koh-moh kahr-neh]
- Cheers!¡Salud!
  [sah-lood]
- I would like to pay, pleaseQuisiera pagar, por favor
  [kee-syeh-rah pah-gahr, por fah-vor]
- Help!¡Ayuda!
  [ah-yoo-dah]
- Go away!¡Vete!
  [veh-teh]
- Call the Police!¡Llama a la policía!
  [yah-mah ah lah poh-lee-see-ah]
- Call a doctor!¡Llama a un médico!
  [yah-mah ah oon meh-dee-koh]
- I'm lostEstoy perdido
  [ehs-toy pehr-dee-doh]
- I'm illEstoy enfermo
  [ehs-toy ehn-fehr-moh]
- I'd like to buy...Me gustaría comprar...
  [meh goo-stah-ree-ah kohm-prahr...]
- I'm just lookingSolo estoy mirando
  [soh-loh ehs-toy mee-rahn-doh]
- How much is it?¿Cuánto cuesta?
  [kwan-toh kwehs-tah]
- That's too expensiveEs demasiado caro
  [ehs deh-mah-syah-doh kah-roh]
- Can you lower the price?¿Puedes bajar el precio?
  [pweh-dehs bah-har ehl pree-thyo]
- What time is it?¿Qué hora es?
  [keh oh-rah ehs]
- It's one o'clockEs la una
  [ehs lah oo-nah]
- Half past (10)Y media (10)
  [ee meh-dee-ah (dee-ehs)]
- MorningMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- AfternoonTarde
  [tahr-deh]
- EveningNoche
  [noh-cheh]
- YesterdayAyer
  [ah-yehr]
- TodayHoy
  [oy]
- TomorrowMañana
  [mah-nyah-nah]
- 1Uno
  [oo-noh]
- 2Dos
  [dohs]
- 3Tres
  [trehs]
- 4Cuatro
  [kwah-troh]
- 5Cinco
  [theen-koh]
- 6Seis
  [says]
- 7Siete
  [syeh-teh]
- 8Ocho
  [oh-choh]
- 9Nueve
  [nweh-veh]
- 10Diez
  [dyehth]
- Where's a/the...?¿Dónde está...?
  [dohn-deh ehs-tah]
- What's the address?¿Cuál es la dirección?
  [kwal ehs lah dee-rehk-syon]
- Can you show me (on the map)?¿Puedes mostrarme (en el mapa)?
  [pweh-dehs mohs-trar-meh (ehn ehl mah-pah)]
- When's the next (bus)?¿Cuándo es el próximo (autobús)?
  [kwan-doh ehs ehl proh-ksy-moh (ow-toh-boos)]
- A ticket (to ....)Un billete (a ....)
  [oon bee-yeh-teh (ah ....)]

History of Costa Brava

The history of Costa Brava dates back to ancient times when the Iberians first settled in the region. Around the 6th century BC, Greek traders founded the colony of Empúries, which became a significant trading post. The remnants of this ancient city can still be explored today, offering a glimpse into the early interactions between local tribes and Mediterranean civilizations.
In the 2nd century BC, the Romans conquered the Iberian Peninsula, including the Costa Brava region. They expanded Empúries into a thriving Roman town, which served as a crucial point for trade and military operations. The Roman influence is evident in the well-preserved ruins, including a forum, basilica, and mosaic floors that provide insights into Roman urban planning and daily life.
During the medieval period, Costa Brava was characterized by the construction of numerous castles and fortresses to defend against pirate attacks and invasions. The coastal towns of Tossa de Mar and Begur are notable for their medieval walls and towers. These fortifications were essential in protecting the inhabitants and maintaining control over the strategic coastline.
From the 16th century onwards, Costa Brava saw the growth of small fishing villages along its rugged coastline. Communities like Cadaqués and Calella de Palafrugell developed around the fishing industry, which became a cornerstone of the local economy. These villages have retained much of their traditional charm, with whitewashed houses and narrow, winding streets.
In the early 20th century, Costa Brava became a haven for artists and intellectuals. Salvador Dalí, one of the most famous surrealist artists, spent much of his life in the region. His house in Portlligat and the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres are major cultural attractions that celebrate his work and the artistic heritage of the area.
The mid-20th century marked the beginning of Costa Brava's transformation into a popular tourist destination. The development of resorts and infrastructure brought economic growth but also posed challenges for preserving the region's natural beauty and historical sites. Efforts have been made to balance tourism with conservation, ensuring that Costa Brava remains a place of both historical significance and natural splendor.