things to do in Costa Brava, Spain

Located on the scenic northeastern coast of Spain is the vibrant and cultural Costa Brava, a region that encompasses well-known Spanish destinations, including the most famous cities, Girona and Lloret de Mar, and smaller and charming towns including Figueres (Salvador Dalí’s birthplace), and Blanes, amongst many!

Stretching between Blanes in the south, and Barcelona in the north, Costa Brava is in the region of Girona. This magical coast offers eager travelers who want to get off the beaten path a breath of fresh air enjoying numerous medieval towns, stunning natural parks, gardens, and cultural museums, with a tangible Mediterranean vibe.

Looking to relax on the beach? Check out some of Costa Brava’s 200+ best beaches, rent a boat to explore the hidden coves and caves, or better yet, go scuba diving to explore the vibrant sea creatures in the Mediterranean!

Enjoy letting go of stress with incredible hiking opportunities, including the Camins de Ronda, an incredible 135 miles along the coast! Bird watchers? Check out Punta de Cap de Creus for epic bird spotting!

So if this sounds like you’re vibe, let’s keep exploring all the fun things to do in Costa Brava!

1 – Visit the top three Dalí attractions

Dalí attractions, Costa Brava

Located in Girona, visit The Gala Dalí Castle, a medieval castle where Dalí moved to after the death of his wife Gala Dalí. Here, Dalí was inspired by the ruined state in which the castle was when he moved in, during the late 60s. Today, the castle-turned-museum showcases a private look into Dalí’s life with pieces from the house still left intact, from art to furniture, and other objects!

Explore the Dalí House-Museum, another one of Dalí’s residences where he lived just before the death of his wife. You can visit the museum and take a look at their private residence, with numerous objects from vases, artwork, and elegant rugs, and take note of the odd-shaped windows towards the Porlligat Bay.

Visit Figueres, the Dalí’s hometown, and explore the Dalí Theatre Museum, where he once lived, and now also rests. Discover a great collection of his works, marking the beginning of his practice with surrealism.

2 – Try some snorkeling around the Medes Islands

snorkeling in Costa Brava

Consider an exciting snorkeling trip to uncover the abundant sea life and colors just underneath the turquoise-colored waters of the Mediterranean!

Take a boat and get dropped off (literally) on the waters of the Medes Island Natural Marine Reserve near L’Estartit, and see massive schools of fish swimming near you, a few coral communities, incredible plants and underwater vegetation, and even a few dolphins!

Before going off on your sea world adventures, you’ll also receive a brief yet complete safety introduction, receive all your equipment, and then take off for the islands to go snorkeling with your guide.

Some snorkeling tours last 2 hours, with 50 minutes of that time allotted to actually being underwater. Groups can vary from 8-10 people. At the end, you’ll have time to swim leisurely or even catch up on your sunbathing on the boat’s deck, as you take in the beauty of this reserved nature spot!

3 – Catch a wide glimpse of Old Town at Murallas de Tossa de Mar

Murallas de Tossa de Mar, Costa Brava

Admire the stunning 12th-century Murallas de Tossa de Mar (Walls/Fortress of Tossa de Mar) located in the town of Tossa de Mar!

For many reasons, the Murallas de Tossa de Mar became a symbol of Costa Brava, which was built to protect the city from possible pirates arriving from Northern Africa.

Analyze the 7 walls which are still in good condition, and decorate the views from Old Town and Central Platja Gran Beach! Walk on a few walls, accessible from the Old Town, and get incredible views of the Old Town and the beach!

To get into Old Town, check out the arched entryway with a cross with Christ on one side and the Virgin Mary on the other, right beside the clock tower.

Step through into Old Town, and explore the charming streets, while getting lost in the beautiful architecture of some of the 17th-century homes and buildings!

4 – Kayak along the stunning Costa Brava

kayaking in Costa Brava

Also located in Tossa de Mar are amazing kayaking tours from Girona, and exploring the varied waterways and beautiful sights you’ll come into contact with around the coast.

Embark on a scenic journey, discovering the hidden coves and caves along Costa Brava, as you see wild sea creatures under you swimming around in the transparent waters! Whether you’ve gotten on a kayak before or not, many kayak tours offer safety and practice training, so you can confidently explore the varied routes on this 2-3 hour long experience!

Some of the routes may be a bit challenging, as you’ll pass through rocky cliffs and you may experience wavy patches of water, however, you’ll be fully equipped with your safety gear including a life jacket to keep you safe at all times.

Kayak tours start at $33 USD, and you can choose from a daytime kayak tour or a dreamy sunrise kayak tour to start your day!

5 – Smell the fresh scent of flowers in the Mediterranean air at the Jardín Botánico Marimurtra

Jardín Botánico Marimurtra, Costa Brava

Situated in Blanes, make your way to the idyllic Jadín Botánico Marimurtra for a complete introduction to the wild flora that grows on Spain’s Costa Brava.

Take your senses on a spin as you explore the over 4,000 different plant species, divided into different gardens, with extraordinary views of the coast as the garden runs along the edge of the Mediterranean.

From cacti and succulent gardens, exotic flowers, towering trees, and more, take a breather as you stroll through the park in one of the many benches, and take in the peaceful scenery of the place!

Entry tickets to the botanic garden start at 8 euros. Guided tours are available for 60 and 90-minute sessions at an additional cost.

Pro tip: Spring is one of the best times to visit just in time to see the flowers bloom, just before the summer heat rolls in!

6 – Breathe in the fresh Mediterranean breeze on a boat tour

boat tours in Costa Brava

From a peaceful boat ride along the Mediterranean to a party boat with a DJ, booking a boat tour on the Mediterranean is one of the best experiences to have in Costa Brava, no matter what you’re looking for!

Look into the several boat tours from Girona, such as a boat trip to Cap de Creus, Port Lligat, and Cadaqués, where you’ll be able to make a stop at a few of the sleepy villages to learn some fascinating local history.

Another option is a dinner or a lunch combo on a Catamaran boat, where you’ll coast along the Costa Brava, with an optional stop at the beach for some bonus water activities for a complete 4-hour-long experience! Looking for something specifically fun for kids? Check out a Catamaran tour with a submarine vision to see all the fish and sea creatures clearly from the bottom deck of the catamaran!

7 – Plan a trip to Sant Pere de Rodes

Sant Pere de Rodes, Costa Brava

Explore the immense history of Sant Pere de Rodes, an ancient Benedictine monastery that dates back to 878 AD, offering panoramic sites of Costa Brava.

Located in Girona, the Romanesque Sant Pere de Rodes has many stories swirling around it as far as explaining its existence, from runaway monks to shipwrecks and more, however, one thing is for sure, the monastery has become one of the most important religious sites in Spain in the last few years!

Due to wars and thieves over time, many of the items inside started to disappear until the 30s when the monastery was restored. Today, Christian pilgrims often make pilgrimages to the monastery, to appreciate the religious relics inside, including the potential remains of Saint Peter.

To visit the beautiful monastery and take in the coastal views, audio guides, and self-guided tours are available, including a few organized tours, depending on the season that you visit!

8 – Practice your scuba diving skills

scuba diving in Costa Brava

Dive a few feet below the surface of the Meditteranean to explore the rich biodiversity of the sea, including vegetation, and more!

When you book a scuba diving experience, you’ll be guided by a professional scuba diver, who will accompany you throughout your excursion underwater and learn how to scuba dive with the best techniques for safety and optimal fun!

Costa Brava is one of the best places in Spain to do scuba diving, so you’ll have a good list of places to experience your dive, whether that’s in Platja del Morro del Vedell in Palamos, Lloret de Mar, or even looking into other small group scuba diving tours from Girona.

Don’t have your scuba diving license? No worries! Many scuba diving activities include licensure opportunities integrated into the day’s activities themselves! Some activities do come with professional photos and videos, so you can share on your social media!

Scuba diving experiences start at $54 USD.

9 – See dormant volcanoes on a hot air balloon ride

hot air balloon ride in Costa Brava

From the depths of the Mediterranean to reaching new sky heights on a hot air balloon ride, appreciate overlooking the incredible beauty of Costa Brava, from its coastal cities and villages to its picture-perfect nature, and more!

From the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park to the sparkling Mediterranean, and the Catalan Pyrenees (a series of large mountains with hot springs and lakes), you can bet that some of the scenes you’re about to experience on your hot air balloon will become some of the best memories you’ll have while exploring Costa Brava.

Take your pick from numerous hot air balloon routes and packages, which include hot air balloon rides from Girona, crossing over the Cape of Creus, the Bay of Rosas, Dalí’s hometown, Figueras, and other small villages dotting Costa Brava!

You’ll be rewarded with a hot air balloon certificate and even take a professional photo after the experience!

10 – Enjoy a day at the dreamy Jardins de Santa Clotilde

Jardins de Santa Clotilde, Costa Brava

For a moment in nature and beauty, check out the award-winning waterfront Jardin de Santa Clotilde, a stunning garden taken straight out of a fairy tale with Renaissance-style gardens and sculptures, and even access to the Mediterranean.

Created by Raül Roviralta i Astoul, and named after his wife, Clotilde Rocamora, the park was previously a vineyard after it was acquired by Roviralta in 1917.

Located in Lloret de Mar in Girona, enjoy the romantic ivy wound up through the staircases, the sound of the fountains and waterfalls, and the historic cypress trees, and sculptures dotting the grounds of this classic Mediterranean garden.

Open all year round, from Monday to Sunday, stop by any month, but be aware of the differing time changes throughout the seasons. The hours of operation change between April to October November to January, and February to March.

Tickets to enter can be pre-booked online.

11 – Make a splash at Water World Parc

Water World Parc, Costa Brava

Refresh yourself at Water World Parc, and enjoy the numerous water activities and rides designed for children and adults to let loose, and have some cool fun in the heat!

Found in Lloret de Mar, Water World Parc features dozens of games, from the thrilling water slide Water Mountain to the chill-out area called The Bay, the exciting Storm game that challenges your balance, the fun for all Wave Pool, and more!

After all the water fun, grab lunch or a snack at the numerous restaurants and snack bars, and for the adults wanting a bit of distance from the commotion, check out the VIP sections! Lie down in a sun lounger, poolside, and enjoy the adult-only pool.

If you’re traveling with a group, make sure to inquire about the special group rates, if not, prices vary based on age/ height. Adults typically play 37 euros, while children’s tickets are 21 euros.

12 – Get epic city and sea views from the Castillo de Sant Joan

Castillo de Sant Joan, Costa Brava

In the city of Blanes, is one of the most iconic city structures on top of the Sant Joan Hill called the Castillo de Sant Joan.

Towering over the city at 173 meters above the sea, the panoramic castle was built originally to be a defense fort to look out to the Mediterranean for potential pirates and attackers, specifically when the city was under Arab rule.

In the 17th century, it was converted into a pilgrimage site for the day of Sant Joan Bautista, where today, you can still see remnants of frescos painted inside! Today, you can visit the castle and be sure to climb up the stone steps, to enjoy its incredibly scenic views from the top!

The castle is open all year round, except for January-March. Make sure to look online to see the different hours of operation that vary depending on the season. Entry is free.

13 – Jam out at the music festival at Jardíns de Cap Roig

Jardíns de Cap Roig, Costa Brava

Stop by Jardíns de Cap Roig, a picturesque medieval-style garden set on the top of a cliff, offering uninterrupted views of El Golfet beach Formigues Islands, and coves!

Reaching 17 hectares, and overflowing with 1,000+ different plant species, fall in love with the colorful plants and shady trees that decorate this garden uniquely. Stop by the sculpture park, and take frequent breaks to enjoy the scene of the San Sebastian lighthouse and idyllic islands on the horizon.

Book a tour to learn about Mediterranean plants, the different viewpoints, or numerous workshops held at the garden!

Located in Calella-de Palafrugell in Girona, If you’re visiting in July and August, plan a trip to the garden for its annual Cap Roig Festivals! Hosting numerous musical acts and concerts throughout the 2 months, enjoy the sweet sound of your favorite musicians in one of the most beautiful gardens in Costa Brava!

14 – Make some waves on a jet ski expedition

jet ski in Costa Brava

Get on an exciting jet ski, and traverse the Mediterranean and its secret caves and coves on the Costa Brava, any day of the week!

On a typically 30-minute jet ski ride, hold on tight and speed through some of the Costa Brava’s best beaches, and coastlines, with the opportunity to get off and go swimming for a little bit, or lay on the beach.

You will ride with a jet ski expert, who will guide you to the best-hidden coves and caves along the way, while also offering insight into the local sea life, and history of the sites you’ll pass by.

Choose from the different jet ski tours you’d like to embark on, whether it’s jetting off from Lloret de Mar, or it’s jet-skiing off to Illes Medes, or I’Estarit, and many more beautiful sites around the coast.

Jet ski adventures in Costa Brava start at $52 USD.

15 – See the historical Ruins of Empuries

Ruins of Empuries, Costa Brava

Discover one of the most fascinating and important historical sites in Spain where the coexistence of Greek and Roman civilizations merged at the ruins of Empuries.

Learn about the arrival of the Greeks 2,500 years ago and the Roman’s influence later on at Costa Brava, how they transformed Empuries, into a busy economic and commercial town, and how that influenced the dominance of the Romans over the Iberian peninsula in 218 BC.

To get there and see the ruins, check out a Greco-Roman city of Empuries tour, and see the remnants of Roman baths, and the Greek structure defense walls, amongst other incredible ruins.  Visit the town of Sant Martí d’Empúries, see the Camí de Ronda l’Escala as well as El Portixol, and a few more important archaeological sites.

Afterward, step inside the museum, where you’ll see items found during the excavation, further shedding light on the history of Empuries.

16 – Stretch your legs on a walk through the Muralles de Girona

Muralles de Girona, Costa Brava

Take a walk on the Murallas de Girona, (the city walls of Girona) dating back to their construction between the 9th and 14th century and extending around 1.86 kilometers (3 miles) around the Old City!

Built by the Romans, the city walls are some of the best places to catch the golden sunset, and views of both the Old City of Girona and the newer parts. The wall is divided by north, eastern, and southern sides, and to get on the wall is easy, especially on the north and south sides.

On the north side, you’ll get views of the Girona Cathedral, the Church of St. Felix, views of the town’s brown roofs, towering cypress trees, and forests around the old town. From the south and east side, you’ll see a better view of both the new and historic sides of the city.

Walking on the wall is free.

17 – Climb the steps to get to the Girona Cathedral

Girona Cathedral, Costa Brava

Take in the details of the Baroque facade of the Girona Cathedral, dating back to the 11th and 18th centuries, and known today as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona.

Built on the highest point of the city, the church was at one point converted into a mosque, and then converted back into a church and restored completely in 1117 AD. Today, it’s known for having one of the widest Gothic naves in the world, a Gothic portrait of St. Michael dating back to the 14th century, and a 12th-century Tapestry of Creation worth checking out!

On a walking tour in Girona, you’ll get to see and learn more about the exterior of the church, while paying attention to the different architectural styles of the church, due to the length of time that it took to finish the cathedral. Your guide will point out Romanesque, Baroque, and Gothic styles, plus more!

18 – Master your skills horse riding through Girona

horse riding in Costa Brava

Trek through the stunning countryside of Girona on a 2-3 hour long horseback ride, wandering through secluded woodland areas, surrounded by wildflowers and local flora with your guide and group!

After meeting up with your guide, you’ll receive a few riding lessons to make sure to get the hang of horse riding, or simply to polish up your skills if you’ve ridden before. Next, you’ll get going on your galloping horse, discovering beautiful corners of the quiet countryside while learning more about Girona and Costa Brava from your guide!

Some tours also include professional photos included with the price of your experience, as well as a celebratory drink with snacks after your horse riding experience! Afterwards, you’ll have the choice to join the group for a later lunch or dinner for an additional cost, where you can recap the experience, and solidify the friendships you made on this epic experience!

19 – Learn how Girona was transformed for filming on a Game of Thrones tours

game of thrones tours in Girona

Any Game of Thrones out there? Check out a half-day, jam-packed Game of Thrones tour, where you’ll explore the different sites in Girona where the famous series filmed scenes for season 6!

Join other fans, hit the Old Town, and get a behind-the-scenes look at how the city was transformed, learn other on-set magic, and fun facts that not even the biggest fans out there may know!

From the Cathedral of Santa Maria to the Jewish Quarter, and the Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligans, you’ll stop by a minimum of 6 different sites with an expert tour guide to show you around.

The Game of Thrones tour typically lasts 2-2.5 hours and some tours start at $0! If you’re on a budget, consider a free 1.5-hour-long guided tour with a local guide, and if you’re looking for something more customized, consider a private tour!

20 – Take a tour of the Banys Àrabs

Banys Àrabs, Girona, Costa Brava

Tucked between the Church of Sant Felíu and the Old City Walls are the historic Banys Àrabs, which were public Arab baths that date back as far as 1194!

Known as the best-preserved Romanesque baths in Europe, the Banys Àrabs were transformed for various purposes throughout time, from Jewish mikvehs to other uses by the Catholic church and more! The Banys Àrabs officially reopened for visitors to check out the space in the 1930s, and since then, it’s been one of the most fascinating places in great condition to study a bit of Girona’s past!

Explore the 4 rooms of the baths, including the changing room, and learn about the different social activities and methods in which the baths were kept under specific temperatures back then!

The Banys Àrabs is open every day, and you can purchase tickets and tours straight from their website! Admission plus tour tickets start at 5 euros for adults.

21 – Have a romantic moment at the Village Medieval de Pals

Pals, Costa Brava

Fall in love with the charming squares and the narrow cobblestone streets of the medieval village of Pals, in Girona.

Whether you visit to enjoy a quiet stroll through the historic streets, under the dreamy ivy-covered arched ways, or you want to explore the sites including the 12th-century Romanesque Torre de los Hores (tower of the hours), prepare to peruse one of the dreamiest villages on Costa Brava!

Perched up on a hill, Pals charm undoubtedly comes from its medieval architecture, as well as the surrounding nature and cultural things to do! Check out the Museu-Casa de Cultura Ca La Pruna, where you can browse exhibits on cultural items from Catalan wines to local historical items.

Shop at the local art galleries and hand-crafted souvenir shops, then head to the main Plaça Major for some lunch! Pals is known for its incredible gastronomic offerings, mainly consisting of rice dishes, so come hungry!

22 – Plan a hike around Camí de Ronda

Camí de Ronda, Costa Brava

Explore tons of fishing villages and other quaint nature spots on your hike through the idyllic Camí de Ronda, stretching a total of 135 miles between Blanes to Portbou.

The route is divided into two parts, the southern and the northern, with the southern part stretching between Blanes to Pals, with views full of nature sites, from forests, farms, and impressive cliffs overlooking the sea.

The northern side stretches between l’Estratit to Portbou and is a bit rougher to walk, and there aren’t too many trees around. You can however see a bit of the Pyranees, which is quite the scene to see!

The walk can either be completed with a tour group, or individually, as the hike is well-marked throughout, although some of the signs consist of markings on trees and other place markers in nature to look out for. Guides are available to understand what to look for better!

23 – Take a leap of faith bungee jumping

bungee jumping in Costa Brava

Want to do something epic on your trip to Costa Brava? Why not consider bungee jumping in Lloret de Mar?

Jumping off the height of 70 meters (230 feet) – the highest possible bungee jump in Spain, take an (almost) free fall leap into the natural void below, securely geared up and with a bungee instructor with you to guide and ease any nerves that may pop up! Whether you want to jump on your own or in tandem, you can choose either option!

Some bungee jumping experiences also include professional videos and photos to be taken of you, so if this is something you want to later share on socials, ask about this and the additional cost attached.

Want to amp up the fun? Consider a joint bungee jumping activity plus some kart racing for a day of pure adrenaline!

Bungee jumping starts at $42 USD, and the minimum age to participate is 16 years old.

24 – Learn the history of the Parish Church of Sant Roma

Parish Church of Sant Roma, Costa Brava

Visit one of the most impressive churches in Lloret de Mar and see the city’s patron at the Parish Church of Sant Roma, built with 2 different architectural styles.

The church dates back to the early 1500s, however after many of the townspeople left for the Americas to seek a better life, many of the newer generations came back later on and found their town and church in poor conditions after the Spanish Civil War.

With its ruins, new renovations, and additions, today, the church is open and welcoming visitors to see the inside of the larger space, including the two side chapels. Seek out a few modern pieces of art inside, including a stone image of Our Lady of Loreto and the Holy Christ.

The church is open between 9:30 AM and 12:00 PM and then 4:00 PM to 7:30 PM.

25 – Work on your sun tan at the best beaches

best beaches in Costa Brava

Pack your SPF and beach towel and get ready to hit the best beaches on Costa Brava!

Playa de Fenals is Lloret de Mar’s most popular beach and for good reason! With over 700 meters of golden sand, impressive mountain views from a distance, several lifeguards on duty, changing facilities, water sports, and beach rentals available, the beach has everything, including the most pristine turquoise blue waters!

Relish Platja de Treumal’s 400 meters of golden sands in Blanes, shared by other beachgoers, wellness groups, and more, and then head to the nearby botanical garden to enjoy the colorful gardens and stunning succulents!

Fall in love with Platja del Canadell, surrounded not by nature, but by an idyllic fishing town, offering a local neighborhood vibe you can’t get anywhere else! After a dip in the turquoise blue waters of the beach, head into town for a traditional dish!

26 – Visit the site of Ciutadella de Roses

Ciutadella de Roses, Costa Brava

Learn about the different uses of the seaside Ciutadella de Roses in the last 13 centuries, with Greek, Roman, and Romanesque influences amongst many leaving their mark.

The Ciutadella de Roses was a fortified space that protected the Romanesque monastery of Santa Maria de Roses, and today, it’s still one of the best-conserved fortifications on the Costa Brava.

On a guided tour of the Ciutadella de Roses, you’ll get a better idea of the history that you’ll be looking at as well as visiting the museum which shares the reason for the name including roses, to walking through the exhibition hall, and taking a look the different military buildings!

Explore the details of the site’s 17 hectares (42 acres), and don’t forget to check out their official website to seek out the different activities, primarily aimed at family and friend groups.

Admission into the Ciutadella de Roses is 4 euros.

27 – Do some Windsurfing in L’Estartit

windsurfing in Costa Brava

Whether it’s windsurfing or kitesurfing, participating in a fun water sports activity is hands down one of the most fun things to do in Costa Brava for a little adventure in the water!

Check out the seaside resort town of L’Estartit in Girona, and take up some kitesurfing lessons with a professional! Learn how to put together the equipment, and then hit the water, learning how to balance and use the power of the Mediterranean wind to guide you around! The whole experience typically takes around 2.5-4 hours.

Want a change of pace? Consider a scenic L’Estartit tour in Costa Brava, whether that’s underwater on a dive and snorkeling expedition to Montgrí National Park, exploring the depths of the water and uncovering sea vegetation and animals, or a scenic boat tour!

Enjoy a boat tour with optional swimming in Montgrí Park, allowing the soft breeze to relax you as you look towards the Medas Islands Marine Reserve!

28 – Surround yourself with abundant nature at Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park

Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, Costa Brava

See reptiles, amphibians, and numerous fish and mammals at the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park, the 2nd most important wetland area in Catalonia.

Covering 4,866 hectares, the park has three nature reserves including the Island of Caramany, the Llaunes (saltwater lagoons), and Estanques, in which various other animals including deer, rabbits, weasels, and a great number of exotic birds live in!

Following its declaration as a protected Area of National Interest, you can now enjoy the scenic trails to give you a view of the impressive wetland yourself, coming across wildlife, flourishing vegetation, and more!

Access to the park itself is free, however, a 5 euro fee is charged if you decide to park your car. The park is open all year around, but be sure to check out their official website to get updated on hours of operation, as they vary from season to season.

29 – Capture memorable views from the tops of Montgrí Castle

Montgrí Castle, Costa Brava

Visit the historical Montgrí Castle, a fascinating castle that was built in Torroella de Montgrí between 1294 and 1301, as a defense against the tension between Empuries and the powerful Barcelona.

Set at the top of Montrgrí Mountain, the castle was never fully completed, and today, the castle is seen as a symbol of the region, rather than as an actual structure that was used as a defense.

To visit the castle, take a walking route starting at Torroella de Montgrí, and then follow the hiking trail to the castle, following the visible signs. On your way, enjoy many beautiful sites nearby! As the castle is set on a hill, the city below will start to appear in all its beauty!

The walk takes around 1.5 hours, and you’re allowed to go inside if it’s open, and climb up to the castle walls and towers for even better views!

30 – Try locally made products at the Solés Anchovy Factory-Museum

Solés Anchovy Factory-Museum, Costa Brava

Visit the oldest salt preservation and anchovy factory in L’Escala, Girona, run by the Solés family for the past 130 years!

With your Solés Anchovy entry ticket, you’ll have access to a guided tour throughout the factory, access to different language audio guides, including English, and a complete history breakdown behind the Solés family and the factory, as well as a tasting at the end!

Get a behind-the-scenes look at the stages of their production, as well as learn about a few ways the anchovies add to the regional culinary scene in Costa Brava, and Spain as a whole, through traditional recipes and more! After your informative experience, you’ll get to enjoy the unique and recently added “Solés chill-out” terrace.

If you’re a foodie traveler, and you especially like anchovies, this museum has to be on your list of the best places to visit in Costa Brava!

Tickets start at $6 USD.

31 – Do some bird watching at Punta de Cap de Creus

Punta de Cap de Creus, Costa Brava

Make it to the northeasternmost point of the Iberian peninsula at the Punta de Cap de Creus, and enjoy the beautiful landscape of wild animals and natural vegetation with the natural parks on the peninsula!

Bring snacks and enjoy the beautiful scene of seabirds gliding through the sky, and bring binoculars (and maybe a bird-watching book) to spot out the Pardela Mediterránea, the Cormorán Moñudo, and the Alcatraz Atlántico amongst many other types of seabirds!

Stop by the beautiful natural parks, including Cap de Creus Natural Park, and its natural reserves, or stop by little towns like Cadaqués or Portlligat, and the nearby beach of Sant Lluís and la Guillola!

Hungry? Stop to fuel up at the idyllic Restaurant Cap de Creus, for a delicious Catalonian meal, from Gazpacho to Cape de Creus anchovies on toast, and more! Just make sure to reserve a table ahead of time.

Where to stay in Costa Brava?

Have all amenities at your disposal when you book a few nights at Aparthotel Costa Encantada, in Lloret de Mar. Perfect for families and friend groups looking for a relaxing time of sun, sea, and pool, enjoy the accommodations including an in-house spa, 4 swimming pools, state-of-the-art fitness room, plus free, fresh daily breakfast!

Wake up to views of the Mediterranean Sea when you book a stay at Eden Roc Hotel & Spa by Brava Hoteles! Enjoy the Meditteranean-inspired decor of the hotel and rooms, walk in the hotel’s stunning gardens daily, or simply relax poolside!

Lastly, Hotel Montjoi by Brava Hoteles in Sant Feliu offers a bright, and airy clean room with both ocean and garden views! If you’re traveling with pets, this hotel is a great option for those traveling with a furry friend. Enjoy gorgeous sea views, especially considering that this hotel is located on a cliff.

Visiting Costa Brava on a budget?

Get to know the stunning medieval town of Pals in one of the free walking tours in Costa Brava, and dig deeper into the history of this beautiful coastal town! Visit the main sites like the Plaça Major and the Church of Sant Pere on foot, while also getting to ask your local guide for the best food recommendations!

Where to go next?

After exploring the Costa Brava, travel to other regions nearby, starting with nearby Barcelona!

From exploring the beautiful architecture of Gaudí at Casa Batllo and Parc Guell to walking the ever-famous Las Ramblas to see where the action is, a trip to Barcelona should be on everyone’s list at one point! After all that sightseeing, check out a food tour to complete your Barcelona itinerary!

Next, head to Zaragoza, and cross the stunning Puente de Piedad to get to the city’s historic center, and see the city’s main highlights, from the Goya Museum, the Plaza del Pilar, and the historical market hall, La Lonja!

Jump the border to France, and explore the magic in Toulouse! Take a scenic walk along the Grand Rond, brimming with stunning manicured gardens, and fancy water fountains! For those looking to get nerdy, head to the Musée Aeroscopia, to learn more about the world of aircrafts!

Final thoughts

We hope you’re as pumped as we are for all the incredible things to do in Costa Brava! From beautiful small towns like Tossa de Mar and Pals to the abundant nature opportunities to take advantage of like visiting Punta de Cap de Creus, Costa Brava has something for everyone!

Is there something you’re looking forward to in Costa Brava? Share below!

Happy travels!

Maritza Chavez is a travel writer from the U.S., passionate about travel and culture. Her curiosity for traveling began after her first few trips to Mexico to visit family, and then studying abroad in Greece during college. After living in Spain as an English teacher, and more traveling, she decided to start her blog, Travel Notes and Things, to help fellow Latinas travel to their dream destinations while touching on other topics including reverse culture shock and transformative travel. Further expanding her horizons, Maritza frequently travels the globe to pen down exquisite articles for the TourScanner blog, bringing her unique perspective and insights to a wider audience.