Route through the most beautiful towns on Costa Brava
The Costa Brava is much more than beautiful beaches. It’s a charming rural landscape dotted with authentic, historic villages that invite you to stroll and explore. If you’re wondering what to see on the Costa Brava, here’s a route through the most beautiful villages along the coast. Fill up the tank and pack your bags — we’re heading from north to south!
Cadaqués
What to see in Cadaqués?
We begin with the iconic Cadaqués — without a doubt, one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava, and also one of the most visited and photographed. The charm of its whitewashed houses, its fishing tradition, and the surrealist legacy of Dalí have made Cadaqués an international must-see for any traveler looking to discover the Costa Brava.
Cadaqués is located within the Cap de Creus Natural Park. Just a few minutes away by car, you’ll find Portlligat, home to the Salvador Dalí House-Museum. In the village of Cadaqués itself, right by the beach, you’ll find Hotel Playasol — the perfect place for a getaway to Cadaqués.
Hotel Playa Sol is a modern and comfortable accommodation located in the stunning bay of Cadaqués, in a quiet and sunny cove offering some of the best views in the area. This hotel is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing experience in one of the most beautiful destinations on the Costa Brava.
The hotel features a spacious garden and a refreshing outdoor pool, accompanied by a restaurant where you can savor delicious dishes while admiring the landscape. The rooms at Hotel Playa Sol are equipped with everything you need for your comfort, including a private terrace, satellite TV, air conditioning and heating.
Peralada
What can you see in Peralada?
Heading south, you’ll find Peralada, one of the medieval villages of the Costa Brava. It’s famous for its magnificent castle and for the Castell de Peralada Festival, held every summer and featuring top international artists. Its streets are also full of charm.
If you love wine, spa experiences, and fine dining, Peralada is pure indulgence. You can stay at the charming Boutique Hotel Comtal d'Empúries — a delightful spa hotel in Catalonia located in Castelló d'Empúries, just 10 minutes from Peralada — which perfectly combines all three pleasures.
Boutique Hotel Comtal Empuries offers accommodation with a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a garden and a terrace. The accommodation offers a restaurant and also has a bar and hot tub. The accommodation features a 24-hour reception, transfer to and from the airport, room service and free WiFi throughout the accommodation. There are buffet or continental breakfast options available at the hotel. Boutique Hotel Comtal Empuries offers a children's play area.
Empuriabrava
What to see in Empuriabrava?
Near Peralada, heading toward the sea, you’ll discover Empuriabrava, a village full of leisure and activity. Walking through its streets, you’ll see what makes it a special corner of the Costa Brava: its canals. It’s known as “the Venice of the Costa Brava”! Without a doubt, a stroll through Empuriabrava is well worth it.
We recommend the aforementioned Boutique Hotel Comtal d'Empúries, a charming hotel just 15 minutes from Empuriabrava.
L'Escala i Sant Martí d’Empúries
What to see in L’Escala?
L’Escala is one of the most important and well-known fishing villages on the Costa Brava, famous for its anchovies, a deeply rooted local product. Life in L’Escala revolves around the sea… and also around the Tramuntana, the typical wind of the Costa Brava.
Next to L’Escala are the historic ruins of Empúries, the site where the Greeks first arrived on the Iberian Peninsula thousands of years ago. This archaeological site is not only a treasure of history but also a place that reflects the cultural richness and commercial dynamism of ancient times. Visiting the ruins of Empúries is like taking a journey back in time to discover how Mediterranean history was shaped in a unique seaside setting.
You won’t get tired of exploring the beaches of L’Escala. One of the most beautiful is Cala Montgó, where you’ll find the peaceful and charming Hotel Can Miquel.
From this lovely corner of L’Escala, there is a very comfortable pedestrian path (part of the Camino de Ronda) that leads to Sant Martí d’Empúries. This route passes by the ruins of Empúries and its beautiful beaches, offering spectacular views of the surroundings. Whether you arrive on foot from L’Escala or by car, you shouldn’t miss a walk through this charming small medieval village, full of history and character that deserves to be discovered.
The Hotel Can Miquel is located on the Cala Montgó beach, just 4 km from the center of L'Escala, in Alt Empordà. Cala Montgó is a clear example of the authentic Costa Brava, with the Montgrí Massif abruptly ending in a cliff framing a fine sand beach.
The hotel has 37 double rooms, 4 of them disabled-friendly and 2 with a garden, all of them recently renovated. All our rooms are doubles that can be converted into triples, bright, with a full bathroom and have a terrace with views of the pool and the mountains that are part of the Montgrí massif or the garden area. The superior rooms are doubles that can be converted into family rooms, with capacity for up to 4 people, more spacious and bright.
Its facilities include a private pool, a heated pool (not covered), two tennis courts, a garden area, a closed garage exclusively for clients, a restaurant with a terrace facing the beach and an open-air grilled meat restaurant. right in front of the sea. A place to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of the Costa Brava.
L’Estartit
What to do in L’Estartit?
Heading further south along the coast, you’ll come across L’Estartit, one of the most popular destinations on the Costa Brava for families with children thanks to its excellent leisure options and shallow beaches.
L’Estartit is also a favourite spot for scuba divers, as just off its coast lies the natural marine reserve of the Medes Islands (Illes Medes) — a wonderful place to explore the rich underwater flora and fauna.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly hotel on the Costa Brava, Hotel Les Illes is a great choice. Located right in front of L’Estartit’s harbour, it offers comfortable accommodation and a wide range of water activities for the whole family — diving, snorkelling, kayaking, sailing, and more.
Les Illes Hotel & Diving is an establishment with over 60 years of experience, located in front of L'Estartit harbor, on the Costa Brava, and just steps away from the Medes Islands Natural Reserve. With a total of 63 modern and comfortable rooms, the hotel offers a wide range of services such as air conditioning, free wifi, satellite TV, and private bathroom, ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
This hotel is the perfect destination for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities like diving, snorkeling, sailing, kayaking, hiking, and cycling. Additionally, it is the ideal place for families, thanks to its peaceful and welcoming atmosphere, as well as its beach that is perfect for enjoying with children.
Begur
Why is Begur famous?
Begur is a lively town with a rich gastronomic scene and a charming old quarter that invites you to stroll and shop. Don’t be put off by the slope — climb to the top of its medieval castle for breathtaking views of Cape Begur and the Costa Brava.
The beaches of Begur are among the most beautiful coves on the Costa Brava. One of the most famous is Aiguablava Cove, which truly lives up to its name thanks to the brilliant blue colour of its waters. Very close by, you’ll find Hotel Aigua Blava, a seaside hotel perfectly located along the Camí de Ronda coastal trail.
Begur es un pueblo muy vivo, con mucha oferta gastronómica y un casco antiguo precioso por el que pasear e ir de tiendas. Que nos os dé miedo la pendiente: subid hasta la cima de su castillo medieval desde el cual tendréis unas vistas espectaculares al cabo de Begur y la Costa Brava.
Las playas de Begur son de las mejores calas de la Costa Brava. Una de ellas es la cala de Aiguablava, que hace honor a su nombre por el potente azul de sus aguas. Muy cerca está el Hotel Aigua Blava, un hotel situado delante del mar, en pleno Camino de Ronda.
The Hotel Aigua Blava is an exclusive accommodation in Begur, offering stunning sea views and direct access to Aiguablava Beach. Surrounded by crystal-clear coves and close to charming villages like Pals and Tamariu, it is the perfect destination to experience the essence of the Costa Brava with comfort and elegance.
Pals
What to see in the village of Pals?
Pals is considered by many to be one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava — and also one of the most visited. Its medieval walls and historic past make it a charming and carefully preserved destination. Every street, arch, stone house, and hidden corner of Pals exudes an enchanting atmosphere that captivates all who visit.
In Pals, you’ll find Hotel La Costa Beach & Golf Resort, which offers direct access to the Golf de Pals course and is just a few metres from a long, dune-lined beach. Its 120 rooms are designed to provide maximum comfort and relaxation, with views over the stunning swimming pool or the lush green fairways.
Located in the heart of the Costa Brava, La Costa Golf & Beach Resort offers direct access to Golf de Pals and is just a few meters from an extensive dune beach. Its 120 rooms feature views of the pool or the golf course greens, ensuring comfort and relaxation.
With an outstanding gastronomic offer, facilities for conventions and special events, and a wide range of sports and leisure activities, this resort is the ideal destination in the Baix Empordà.
Peratallada
Like Pals, Peratallada is one of the most charming medieval villages from Girona. Moreover, the two are located very close to each other. Peratallada is smaller, but it captivates visitors with its charming corners, delightful restaurants, its castle, and the arches and balconies beautifully decorated with flowers.
Monells, Palau-Sator, Cruïlles, Sant Martí Vell y Madremanya
In addition to Pals and Peratallada, there are other medieval villages in the Empordà – Costa Brava that, although truly tiny, are absolutely beautiful and well worth a visit. We recommend Monells, Palau-Sator, Sant Martí Vell, Cruïlles, and Madremanya. All five are full of charm and have far fewer tourists, as they are less well known.
These villages are so small that you can explore them in about half an hour. But during that short stroll, you’ll experience their authentic medieval atmosphere and timeless charm.
Calella de Palafrugell
What to see in Palafrugell?
Calella de Palafrugell is considered by many artists one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava — it even inspired Joan Manuel Serrat to write his famous song “Mediterráneo.” Calella is truly spectacular, especially when seen from the viewpoint just past Port Bo Beach.
The first Saturday of July is always a special night for Calella and the Costa Brava: the traditional “Cantada de Habaneras” takes place on Port Bo Beach — a unique spectacle that you should experience at least once in your life!
If you’re looking for a charming hotel in Calella, here are three options you’ll love: Hotel Alga, Hotel Garbí, and Hotel Sant Roc.
From Calella, you can walk to Llafranc along an easy and well-maintained Camino de Ronda (coastal path). Just be prepared — when you arrive in Llafranc, there are quite a few steps!
Hotel Alga de Calella de Palafrugell is an elegant establishment located just 200 meters from the beach, in the middle of the Costa Brava. It offers a relaxed atmosphere with more than 7,000 m² of lush gardens, two swimming pools, and tennis courts. With 59 comfortable rooms, it combines the tranquility of the Empordà landscape with services such as a local cuisine restaurant, bar, banquet rooms and parking. It is ideal for romantic getaways or family holidays, in an environment that invites calm and rest.
Cozy hotel in Calella de Palafrugell, one of the most iconic destinations on the Costa Brava. Hotel Garbí is perfect for families and for those looking to unwind in a privileged natural setting, just minutes away from the region’s best beaches and coves.
After a day exploring the Costa Brava or enjoying the sea, relax in our outdoor pool with hydromassage, stroll through the hotel's spacious gardens, or discover our open-air restaurant, where you can savor the best of local cuisine.
Hotel Sant Roc in Calella de Palafrugell, in the heart of the Costa Brava, offers stunning sea views from its privileged location. With comfortable rooms, a Mediterranean cuisine restaurant, and panoramic terraces, it is the perfect destination for a romantic or family getaway, combining relaxation, nature, and gastronomy.
Llafranc
What to see in Llafranc?
Just like Calella, Llafranc is one of the beaches of Palafrugell. It still preserves much of its seafaring tradition, and it’s common to see fishing boats docked in the small harbor right in front of the beach. Its bay is stunning, and it’s no wonder that Llafranc is one of the most beloved destinations on the Costa Brava for many families.
In Llafranc, you’ll find the Sant Sebastià Lighthouse, located at the top of a hill. You can reach it either by car or by continuing along the Camino de Ronda. The views from the top are truly breathtaking — especially at sunrise.
There are two charming hotels right on Llafranc’s seafront promenade, both facing the beach: Hotel Terramar and Hotel Llafranc. Both offer magnificent sea views, perfect for enjoying the beauty of the surroundings.
Hotel Terramar in Llafranc, a charming village on the Costa Brava, offers sea-view rooms and direct beach access. It stands out for its Mediterranean cuisine, as well as its gym and terraces perfect for relaxation. Llafranc, known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty, is the ideal destination for a couples’ or family getaway.
Located on the seafront promenade of Llafranch, Hotel Llafranch is a landmark establishment on the Costa Brava, perfect for those seeking to enjoy spectacular sea views and a high-quality stay. With 28 elegant and well-equipped rooms, this hotel provides the necessary comfort to make your stay a memorable experience.
The gastronomic offering at Hotel Llafranch is focused on traditional Catalan cuisine, with dishes that stand out for their freshness and authentic flavor.
çWhether you are looking for a peaceful getaway or an experience full of natural beauty and local culture, Hotel Llafranch is the perfect destination to disconnect all year round, surrounded by the magic of the Costa Brava.
S’Agaró
What to visit in S’Agaró?
S’Agaró is a charming seaside village that features one of the most beautiful coastal paths (Caminos de Ronda) on the Costa Brava — the one that runs from Sant Pol Beach to Sa Conca Beach. It’s an easy and well-maintained walk that takes about 25 minutes, with both beaches offering crystal-clear, shallow waters and stunning scenery.
The village of S’Agaró itself is also perfect for a relaxing stroll. There, you’ll find the Hotel S’Agaró Wellness & Spa, where you can not only enjoy a restful stay but also unwind and rejuvenate in its wonderful spa.
The nature and good climate of S'Agaró guarantee the customer of the Hotel S'Agaró Wellness & Spa, a warm stay, while its wide gastronomic offer makes it appropriate for both family and professional celebrations. Its facilities, suitable for seminars and presentations, make it ideal for business actions.
Sant Feliu de Guíxols
What to see near Sant Feliu de Guíxols?
Sant Feliu de Guíxols is one of the most famous and beloved towns on the Costa Brava. It’s a mix of seafaring tradition, beautiful beaches, stunning Caminos de Ronda, and a passion for culture. Don’t miss watching the fishing boats arrive at the harbor in the morning!
Sant Feliu offers a wide range of leisure activities, and you’ve probably heard of the famous Porta Ferrada Festival, held here every summer. The renowned Sant Pol Beach is one of the most beautiful on the Costa Brava, and right on the beach you’ll find Hotel Sant Pol.
If you want to explore charming villages near Sant Feliu de Guíxols, be sure to visit S’Agaró, Calonge, Sant Antoni, Palamós, Tamariu, and Llafranch.
The Hotel Sant Pol is located in Sant Feliu de Guíxols, right in front of Sant Pol Beach, on the Costa Brava. It has 22 rooms, all of them with a terrace, of which 12 have wonderful views of the Sant Pol bay, and five are called superior because they have a large whirlpool bathtub. All of them equipped, among other services, with air conditioning, heating, satellite TV, free Internet access (WIFI), safe, direct telephone, minibar and full bathroom with hairdryer.
Due to its location, right in front of the beach, the Hotel is presented as a place of charm with privileged views, in addition to offering an exceptional location for lovers of the beach and water sports. Likewise, due to its proximity to the Green Routes and the Via Ferrata, it makes it a good stopover for cyclists, hikers, and people who like to climb, with the added bonus of being able to enjoy views near the sea very appreciated.
In the hotel restaurant you can enjoy cuisine specializing in rice, fish and seafood. It is a Restaurant with great tradition in the area and has large rooms for banquets or business meetings.
Tossa de Mar
Why is Tossa de Mar famous?
We couldn’t finish this route through the most beautiful villages of the Costa Brava without stopping at Tossa de Mar, a charming town with a rich medieval past. Tossa is unique thanks to its spectacular walls and castle, which can be seen right from the beach as you take a swim or stroll along the sand.
If you want to stay in Tossa, there’s the Hotel-Restaurante Granados, a charming boutique hotel that once belonged to the family of the musician Enrique Granados.
Enjoy your getaway!
Casa Granados Boutique Hotel is perfectly located in a 200 years old mansion house in the village of Tossa de Mar. Surrounded by the Mediterranean Sea and forests of pines and oaks, the hotel will offer you a warm welcoming.
Casa Granados Boutique Hotel is a unique and exclusive place, consisting of seven rooms that surround the swimming pool, designed by Adam Martí, and romantic gardens around. Inside these gardens there is a spa where you will be able to relax in the sauna or the treatments area.
Every corner of the Costa Brava has its own charm: medieval villages full of history, hidden coves, and a cuisine that will win your heart. These Costa Brava villages are the perfect setting for a romantic getaway, a few days of relaxation, or a family holiday by the sea.
Discover the best hotels on the Costa Brava and enjoy a unique experience between the sea and the tranquility of the Empordà.
