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Mar 17, 2026 - Mar 18, 2026
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The 6 best day trips from the Costa Brava | Excursions & tips

Do you like to spend your holidays on the Costa Brava? Then we have some great tips for you! When we think of the Costa Brava, we think of wide sandy beaches, the rocky coast and the many picturesque villages. It feels like going back in time... And isn't that all you want on holiday? To make sure you get the most out of your trip to the Costa Brava, we've listed the 6 best day trips from the Costa Brava below. That way you'll be fully prepared for when you can travel that way again!

1. Barcelona

This one might seem a bit obvious, but Barcelona is and always will be a metropolis. So how nice is it that you can cross it off your bucket list during your holidays on the Costa Brava? Depending on where on the Costa you stay, you can travel by bus, train or car. Often, complete excursions to Barcelona are also offered. It just depends on what you prefer. Some hotspots in Barcelona you shouldn't miss: Casa Battló and Casa Milà (two buildings by Gaudí), Montjuïc, the quaint Gràcia district, Park Güell and Barcelona Cathedral.

2. Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is one of our favourite spots on the Costa Brava. It is everything you expect from a Spanish coastal town, but without the mass tourism. You won't find big nightlife and bars here, but cute restaurants and quaint shopping streets are plentiful! The highlight of Tossa de Mar (literally and figuratively) is Castillo de Tossa de Mar; the castle built on top of the old defensive walls. TIP: Tossa is also great to visit at night, when the castle is illuminated!

3. Cadaques

Cadaques is one of the most beautiful villages on the Costa Brava. This former fishing village in the north of the region became famous when a number of famous artists, including Dalí and Picasso, settled here. Its beautiful nature and special light was an inspiration for their work. Today, it is one of the Costa Brava's most popular seaside resorts. Cadaques has a relaxed, bohemian atmosphere and is full of white houses. It reminds us a bit of Ibiza!

4. Girona

If you want to take a city trip to Spain, cities like Valencia, Barcelona and Madrid probably come to mind first. But Girona is also a city worth exploring! Unfortunately, many people think of Girona only in terms of the airport, but the city itself also has a lot to offer. Girona has an impressive historic centre with many narrow streets, squares and lots of stairs... You will also find more than enough restaurants and nice shops.

5. Empuriabrava

Empuriabrava is also called the 'Venice of Spain'. In fact, this luxury resort has over 25 km of canals, giving it the largest marina in Europe. Different parts of Empuriabrava are connected by water. Therefore, hiring a boat is definitely recommended! You will also find several beautiful beaches and, in the evening, you can dine at a waterfront restaurant. What more could you want?

6. Calella de Palafrugell & Llafranc

We conclude the list with the lovely town of Calella de Palafrugell and neighbouring town Llafranc. Calella de Palafrugell can rightly call itself one of the prettiest villages on the Costa Brava. The many white houses leading to the beach, the cute little streets and cosy terraces make for a beautiful picture. Neighbouring town Llafranc is also worth a visit. This picturesque town located on a small bay is not yet overrun by tourists. Moreover, Llafranc has a beautiful beach!

Would you like to read more tips & blogs about the most beautiful destinations? Check out all our blogs here.