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<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nCosta Brava<\/strong> \u2013 translated as Wild Coast<\/strong>, is a coastline stretching from the town of Blanes<\/strong> (around 60 km northeast of Barcelona) all the way to the French border. Geographically, it belongs to the province of Girona, which is part of Catalonia \u2013 capital, Barcelona. From Barcelona to Costa Brava is just 1-2 hours of travel (depending on the type of transport chosen \u2013 bus or rented car, and the selected town).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here, white fishing villages descend to turquoise bays, and narrow pedestrian dirt paths wind through shrub forests scented with salt and rosemary. Costa Brava is very popular and lively during the peak season, but most of the towns still preserve tranquility and Spanish beauty without the extensive tourism development seen along other parts of Spain\u2019s coastline (like Costa del Sol near Malaga or Benidorm on the Alicante coast).<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is a very beautiful coastline thanks to its many rocky coves covered with pines and hidden beaches. There are no hundred-meter-long beaches along which trains from Barcelona run. It’s easier to travel by car to reach the various charming towns, rather than by bus circling the roads among the cliffs, small villages, and ruined castles gazing out to sea. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Note<\/strong>: towns from Barcelona to Blanes are often included in the Costa Brava list, but that’s not correct. The coastline there is different \u2013 sand, long beaches along which trains run to Blanes. And it all looks completely different \u2013 no cliffs or small beaches in coves. Mostly, these are modern towns with hotels and apartments, very convenient for a holiday, but they lack the beauty and coziness of the Costa Brava villages.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n The best time to visit Costa Brava is late May, before the start of the busy summer season<\/strong>. At this time the weather is warm, the water is still cool for swimming, but many people are already swimming. At the same time, there are still not huge crowds of tourists on the beaches. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Also the beginning and middle of September<\/strong>, when the tourist peak has already subsided, but the water has not yet had time to cool down. However, as the season progresses, the likelihood of rainy days and winds increases. Water temperatures also start to drop, which may make it too cold for swimming.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In winter<\/strong>, most of the coastline is closed, since it\u2019s the off-season. However, some infrastructure may still be open, and it’s a great time to find some accommodation deals. And in the restaurants, no need to book a table (provided it’s open, of course).<\/p>\n\n\n\n Winter days in Catalonia are also very sunny, and afternoons are best spent either hiking along the coast or simply basking in the midday sun on a sunny terrace. We went to Barcelona and Costa Brava in January \u2013 it’s very beautiful, especially for walking the paths along the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Remember<\/strong>: Costa Brava is the northernmost Mediterranean coastline of Spain. As a result, the sea here warms up later than farther south in Alicante.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n The best way to travel around Costa Brava is by car, since there are no trains from Barcelona (or elsewhere) that go that far along the coast. By renting a car<\/strong> you can also explore the coast at your own pace and not depend on buses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But if you plan to stay only in one of the seaside towns of Costa Brava, then you probably won\u2019t need a car. So, it\u2019s up to you \u2013 as I mentioned above, it depends on your travel style. For example, if you\u2019re traveling with children and are only interested in the sea and beach relaxation \u2013 of course, it\u2019s much easier and cheaper to arrive by bus to your holiday destination.<\/p>\n\n\n\n But in order \u2013 how tourists can get to Costa Brava:<\/p>\n\n\n\n Girona<\/strong> is the closest international airport, making it easy to get to any place along the coast you decide to visit. The first time, we flew through Girona, so after three days in Barcelona we went to explore the Costa Brava. It made perfect sense.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Ryanair<\/strong> flies to Girona from Wroclaw and Poznan, Nuremberg, Dusseldorf and Memmingen, from many cities in the UK and Ireland, from Paris-Beauvais, Pisa and Bari, and other European cities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Barcelona Airport<\/strong> is located in the opposite direction from Costa Brava and is also an option, although you will be driving 2\u20133 hours. But there\u2019s a much wider choice of airlines here, not only from Europe, but also from the US, Canada, and other destinations. Budget airlines Ryanair, Wizzair, EasyJet<\/strong> also fly here.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Buses<\/strong> are also available from Barcelona and Girona. But note that they are slow because they stop in many small villages along the way. Also, for some places you need to transfer. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Buses from Barcelona mainly depart from Estaci\u00f3 Nord<\/strong> bus station (some routes depart from Barcelona Airport). The company serving this region is Moventis Sarfa<\/a><\/strong>. Tickets for Moventis Sarfa Bus must be bought at Moventis Sarfa Bus counters (they cannot be purchased on the bus). The Estaci\u00f3 Nord counters are on the first floor of the station building. Moventis Sarfa Bus tickets are sold at offices 2 and 3 \u2013 Hall C. Online tickets \u2013 on the bus company website.<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Trains from Barcelona only go as far as Blanes \u2013 further on, transfer to buses (I will write in more detail below for each specific town on how to get there).<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s convenient to check route schedules on Omio<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 a public transport aggregator site for different countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Having a car for your visit to Costa Brava is practically a necessity. You\u2019ll be able to see much more and visit places you simply can\u2019t get to by bus. The roads are also in very good condition, so driving is easy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you plan to rent a car, I also recommend checking prices in Economybooking<\/a>.<\/strong> This is a car rental website which compiles offers from all major international rental companies. And also from many small local agencies that often have better prices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Recommended reading: How to rent a car in Spain \u2013 personal experience<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n Read the reviews carefully!<\/strong> That time, we had not the best experience with the rental company \u2013 we rented from GoldCar<\/strong> \u2013 this is a well-known Spanish rent-a-car, but the service quality, aggressive management (pushing full insurance), and fuel policy (with fuel charged at the rental company’s price) we really didn’t like. I try not to rent from them anymore.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The choice of where to stay along the coast depends on your interests and travel style. Here you can find everything from classic seaside resort towns like Lloret de Mar<\/strong> to quieter, calmer, and more authentic villages nestled in peaceful coves. There are family beaches and rocky coves, places with rich history and towns known for their fine restaurants and artistic heritage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It\u2019s important to note that although some towns have bus connections to Barcelona<\/strong> and Girona<\/strong>, public transport on Costa Brava has certain limitations, such as fewer services on weekends and holidays (just like in other regions of Spain). That’s why we decided to rent a car to see as much as possible \u2013 explore remote coves, small villages, famous towns, as well as nature parks where buses almost never go.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Costa Brava stretches all the way to the French border, but there is an optimal \u201ctop five\u201d towns suitable for different types of travelers. Here\u2019s a list from the closest to Barcelona, with a brief description and what to see or do nearby during your vacation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Blanes<\/strong> is the town closest to Barcelona and is officially the starting point of the Costa Brava coast. It\u2019s the only place along this coast that is served by a commuter train from Barcelona. And this is a great advantage of Blanes \u2013 it\u2019s the easiest to reach without a car. <\/p>\n\n\n\n But there\u2019s another side \u2013 many more people come here for holidays at the height of the season<\/p>\n\n\n\n Blanes is a place with a charming old town worth exploring, and there\u2019s an active fishing port here as well. But this is just the beginning of the rocky coastline, so here wide beaches, capable of accommodating lots of people in season, alternate with cozy coves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Playa de Blanes<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 the centrally located city beach,<\/strong> next to the port and to the right of Sa Palomera. In fact, this is the beginning of the Costa Brava. Thanks to its amenities, sand quality, and excellent water, this beach is one of the most popular with visitors. Sant Joan Castle, located on the top of the hill, offers a stunning view of this top-class beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Sa Palomera<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 This is the iconic rock of the town, located between the beaches of Blanes and S\u2019Abanell. <\/strong>It marks the start of La Costa Brava. This is also a natural viewpoint over the town’s beach area. The characteristic silhouette of Sa Palomera is inseparable from the town\u2019s two largest beaches.<\/p>\n\n\n\n S\u2019Abanell<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 the biggest beach in Blanes,<\/strong> to the left of Sa Palomera rock. It stretches for 2 km to the mouth of the Tordera River, where the most touristy part of Blanes is located. Its large size makes it possible for everyone to feel comfortable, especially during the peak tourist season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cala Sant Francesc \/ Cala Bona<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 This cove, also surrounded by pines, is considered a great family beach due to its size and easy access. You can reach it from the botanical garden Marimurtra and Sant Joan<\/strong>. The surface of the large cove is made up of sand. Moreover, the cove is between cliffs that shelter it from the wind. Also a good place for snorkeling \u2013 there\u2019s a rich underwater world that you can see with your own eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Punta de Santa Anna<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 this is a very small beach, <\/strong>made up mostly of pebbles rather than sand.<\/strong> It is located just beyond the harbor beneath El Convent. Its small surface is open to the sea and the rocks, making it an ideal spot for diving.<\/p>\n\n\n\n There is a direct train connection between Blanes and Barcelona. Trains also run from Girona \u2013 you just need to transfer at Ma\u00e7anet-Massanes station. This is a good option if you don\u2019t want to rent a car (if you don\u2019t drive, or don\u2019t want to travel further along the coast). Check train schedules at the railway company website<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To use buses, it\u2019s better to go to the Moventis bus company website<\/a><\/strong> and check directions and schedules for bus routes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The next town is Lloret de Mar<\/strong>, which is a well-developed tourist resort. It is famous for its nightlife and \u201cpackage tourists\u201d \u2013 the vibe of this city is very reminiscent of towns located near Malaga Costa del Sol in Andalusia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Lloret de Mar is actually the main party town on the Costa Brava coast. Here you can visit casinos, pubs, clubs, and even party boats. So there is an opportunity (if you have the energy) to have fun all day and all night. The main \u201cstrip\u201d for nightlife is Av. Just Marl\u00e9s Vilarrodona avenue, which leads down to the city\u2019s seafront. But at the same time, there are also great beaches and infrastructure for a good seaside vacation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Playa de Lloret de Mar<\/a><\/strong> – the main beach, which consists of a mix of sand and fine pebbles. Along it stretches the city promenade, lined with towering palm trees. In addition, it is the largest beach in the city. Being long and very wide, the beach has plenty of space to accommodate everyone who wants to relax here. There are sunbeds that you can pay for if you want a more \u201ccomfortable\u201d beach vacation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Playa de Fenals<\/a><\/strong> – a stunning beach located in a bay. It is the second largest beach in Lloret de Mar. The sand here is also a bit coarse, as is usual on the Costa Brava. Like the main beach, it also has sunbeds and umbrellas available for rent. Here you can do some water sports, enjoy a wonderful promenade for walks, nearby bars and cafes, public toilets, etc. \u2013 everything you might need.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The difference between these beaches is that Playa de Fenals<\/strong> is a quieter, more relaxed, laid-back beach. This place is more suitable for a family vacation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n These are the three sandy beaches that are the easiest to reach from the main city. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you like a sandy, smaller, and quiet beach, Cala Sa Caleta<\/a><\/strong> is a great choice. It is located next to Playa de Lloret de Mar and feels more secluded because it\u2019s in a bay. The place is beautiful, with Castell de Lloret castle overlooking the beach, adding a special touch to this spot.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cala Treumal<\/a><\/strong> – a cove located at the far southern tip of Lloret de Mar. This is a small but beautiful beach with golden sand, surrounded by stunning landscapes. Treumal is Costa Brava in its purest form: with fine sand, pines, and rocks that disappear as you move away from the coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Cala Sa Boadella<\/strong><\/a> – a stunning beach with fine sand and crystal-clear water. It is located in Lloret de Mar and lies between Cala Santa Cristina and Fenals beach. Set in a natural environment, it has a nudist area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tossa de Mar<\/strong> is a mid-sized town that offers a wonderful combination of history, beaches, and a charming Mediterranean atmosphere. It is best known for its stunning castle<\/strong>, nestled on one side of the bay. From it, you get views of the sandy bay with a beach and the medieval old town below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This is an ideal choice for travelers who prefer not to rent a car. Also perfect for families with children \u2013 especially if you do not plan to travel a lot along the coast. Thanks to its transport accessibility \u2013 buses run here from Barcelona and Girona \u2013 in summer there are bigger crowds. So, if choosing a holiday in Tossa de Mar during peak season, book your accommodation in advance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The main beach in Tossa<\/a><\/strong> is sandy, crescent-shaped, and one of the most spacious on the Costa Brava coast. It is perfect for a family vacation or for anyone who wants to relax by the sea. The beach is well serviced by seaside cafes, seafood restaurants, and ice cream shops where you can enjoy a leisurely seaside lunch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Also next to the main beach is Platja Mar Menuda<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 also sandy, but smaller and not as wide, surrounded by rocks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Tossa de Mar<\/strong> also offers easy access to hidden coves and secluded beaches in both directions along scenic coastal trails. If you love hiking, you\u2019ll enjoy the picturesque walking routes along the coast leading to rocky small coves \u2013 Cala Pola <\/strong>and Cala Giverola<\/strong><\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n On or near the beachfront, as well as through the labyrinth of narrow streets, there are many restaurants serving seafood. On the main street you\u2019ll find small shops with souvenirs and clothing \u2013 this is standard for a seaside town, as well as boutiques featuring handmade jewelry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Within the walls of the castle lies a small historic district known as Vila Vella – a wonderful labyrinth of cobblestone streets, stone walls, and watchtowers. Take a walk here, and you’ll hear the clinking of glasses from cozy tapas bars, the chatter of locals socializing over vermouth as the castle’s shadow lengthens in the midday light.<\/p>\n\n\n\n One of the biggest advantages of Tossa de Mar is its accessibility, primarily thanks to regular bus connections from Barcelona and Girona.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
When to go to Costa Brava<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
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How to get to the Costa Brava coast<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nFlights to the nearest airports near Costa Brava<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
By bus and train<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBy car<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Where to stay on the Costa Brava coast<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBlanes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBeaches in Blanes<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to see in Blanes<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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How to get to Blanes: <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Where to stay in Blanes:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Lloret de Mar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBeaches in Lloret de Mar<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nSandy beaches<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Things to do in Lloret de Mar:<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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How to get to Lloret de Mar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Where to stay in Lloret de Mar:<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Tossa de Mar<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nBeaches of Tossa de Mar<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to see in Tossa de Mar and nearby<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
<\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\nHow to get to Tossa de Mar<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\n
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