Compare Costa Brava holidays

What to do in the Costa Brava

The sea and coastline are the Costa Brava’s crowning glories. There are lively Blue Flag beaches where the seas buzz with watercraft and the bordering promenades hum with people. Then there are the quiet deserted coves, perfect for family picnics or whiling away the afternoon with a book.

Girona

History abounds in the beautiful walled city of Girona, whose medieval core is threaded by the Onyar River.

You can spend a pleasant day wandering through the lanes of the labyrinthine old quarter. Visit the Arab baths, cathedral and museums, and spend the afternoon shopping and the evening sampling local tapas.

Cadaqués

Islanded at the bottom of a long winding road, the unspoiled, bohemian town of Cadaqués, famed for hosting the home of Salvador Dalí, clings to small coves lapped by turquoise seas.

With its crumbly whitewashed houses, narrow lanes, sandy beaches and bobbing fishing boats, it’s nigh on impossible not to be charmed by Cadaqués.

Beaches and coves

It would be impossible to pick out just one, so we’re not going to try.

For long stretches of glorious soft sand, try Platja d’Aro, Platja de Pals, Lloret de Mar, Roses, Empuriabrava or L’Estartit. If you’d rather seek out quiet and romantic coves then head to Begur, Palafrugell, El Canadell, Cala Pedrosa, Els Canyers or Cala El Golfet.

Tossa de Mar

This popular resort is as picturesque as they come, with its maze of cobbled streets and towering medieval walls.

There is also a joyous atmosphere (probably something to do with the gorgeous setting and the fact that many people here are on holiday), huge beaches, a pretty fishing fleet, lots of shopping to be done and excellent restaurants, cafes and bars.

Dalí Triangle

The entire landscape of the Costa Brava inspired the famous surrealist painter. However, there are three top spots that Dalí devotees – or anyone with even a passing interest in art – should visit.

Number one is his home in quaint little Port Lligat, adjacent to Cadaqués, which has been converted into a museum. Number two is a castle, which also functions as a museum, in the medieval town of Púbol, which he bought for his wife Gala. Number three is Dalí’s birthplace, Figueres, another charming little fishing port. Here you’ll find the main theatre-museum dedicated to the acclaimed artist.

Costa Brava events

Girona Flower Festival; spring (usually in May):

Girona’s narrow old streets flush with colour as hundreds of blooms are crafted into elaborate displays. This is when the already camera-friendly city it as its most photogenic.

Cantada de Habaneras in Palafrugell; July:

One of the region’s most spectacular events, this musical event pays homage to its fishing ancestry. Fishermen sing habarneras (Cuban songs) from a stage erected at sea. The event attracts tens of thousands who crowd onto the beach and boats.

City festivals:

Each town has its own patron saint and each year week-long festivals are held in their honour. Dates vary from town to town so chances are your holiday will coincide with one. These events are steeped in tradition, and typically feature dancing, human pyramids, fire-running and a giant papier mâché sardine-burying ritual (honestly).