There are so many wonderful cities and villages on the Costa Brava that it can be very difficult to choose one where to go on vacation. Therefore, here is a selection of our favorites. This will help you decide where you want to go and what you want to see in time. Many of these cities are close to each other - you can visit several even in one day. It's worth it!
5. Blanes
The former fishing village of Blanes should definitely be on your list. Magnificent beaches, rocky coves, beautiful churches, charming Old city, a pleasant promenade, impressive monuments and landmarks, and a myriad of restaurants and bars. It also has one of the few still operating fishing ports on the Costa Brava. Relaxed atmosphere - perfect place for family holidays, which, by the way, has even received official recognition due to the quality of services and facilities provided for children on the beach.
The coastal town of L'Escala offers a wide cultural program, traditional festivals, nature reserves and of course beautiful beaches. The Gulf of Roses is its main beach area - a lovely bay with calm waters surrounded by mountains. L'Escala is also famous for the cute statue of the Little Prince Antoine de Saint-Exupery on the waterfront.
The main cultural attraction and treasure of the city is the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia, where you can see the remains of a Greek commercial port from the beginning of Western civilization and the Roman Forum, which was the center of the ancient citadel. On one of the city's beaches, Mall Grek, you can even swim next to the ancient Greek and Roman ruins. At L'Escala you can enjoy a truly amazing combination of culture and beach holiday!
Map
On the map below you can find all the cities of the Costa Brava mentioned in our list. From Blanes in the south, which is said to be the beginning of the Costa Brava, to Cadaques further north, but worth a visit for its rich heritage, including Dali's home.
When buying a tour to Spain for the first time, many beginner tourists are puzzled - where to go to the sea in Spain. Most often they are offered inexpensive tours on the Costa Brava. Let's see exactly which resorts are located in the Costa Brava and what are the features holidays in the Costa Brava.
Costa Brava means “wild, rocky coast” and, in fact, geographically, the Costa Brava is considered to be a part of the Mediterranean coast northeast of Blanes and up to the border with, and from Barcelona to Blanes the coast is called Costa del Maresme.
but travel agencies behind the scenes, more southern (and less wild-rocky :)) resorts such as Calella, Pineda de Mar, Malgrat de Mar and others have long been ranked among the Costa Brava. Well, let's not break traditions and include them in the review.
Costa Brava Map
Photo: map of the Costa Brava and Costa del MaresmeCalella (Calella) - the territory of rational recreation
In the photo: tourists love the wide beaches in the Spanish Calella Playa de Aro is the rising star of the Costa Brava
In the photo: tourists are increasingly choosing Playa d'Aro for their holidays in Spain Spanish resort Playa de Aro (Platja d'Aro) is becoming an increasingly popular holiday destination in Catalonia. And no wonder - very quickly the fishing village turned into a picturesque tourist center.
Playa d'Aro and its environs have everything you need for excellent beach sports and excursion tourism: the clear azure sea, a two-kilometer strip of beaches and wonderful trekking routes, city entertainment and colorful ancient monuments.
The only problem in Playa d'Aro is that it is inconvenient for tourists to get to Barcelona on their own.
Peaceful holiday in Roses
In the photo: Roses on the Costa Brava is not yet covered by Russian tourism Resort town Roses practically unknown for the Russian travel industry. This is a quiet and sunny abode for wealthy European pensioners and lovers of a sedentary vacation at sea for many months. Looking for a vacation in Roses? Drive there on your own, especially since
I must say that sandy beaches are more characteristic of the Turkish Mediterranean coast, if we talk about the vicinity of Belek, Alanya and Side. But on the coast of the Aegean Sea, west of Kemer, pebble beaches are more common. I must say that it has long been noticed that the water is cleaner near pebble beaches. The main advantage of Turkish beaches is that they are very clean and well guarded. In general, Turkish resorts are more suitable for lovers of idle pastime. On the territories of tourist complexes there is everything you need for entertainment and comfortable rest, and on the beaches tourists feel free and comfortable. Both night swimming and topless swimming are common here, and sun loungers are generally free here.
Spanish resorts in general and the Costa Brava in particular differ from Turkish ones in to a greater extent their urbanization. And this, believe me, cannot but affect appearance coast. Close to the beaches of the Costa Brava, Railway and factories work. In addition, Spanish beaches are mostly public, and this entails a certain crowding. In addition, at these resorts night life more intense. The northern part of the Costa Brava is considered a more secluded and environmentally friendly place to stay.
If literally translated from Spanish the name of the Costa Brava, it will sound like - "wild coast". This heavenly place is located in the province of Girona, which is located in the northeastern part of Catalonia. Its length is about 160 kilometers, and travelers literally from all over the world come here to rest. 
This part of the Spanish coast is notable for the fact that at first glance, absolutely incompatible zones are connected in its relief. In one of them, there are rocky cliffs with a huge number of fir and Pyrenean pines growing on them. But in the other part of the coast, one after another, there are gentle bays and picturesque bays with sandy beaches, surrounded by graceful palm trees.
Quite remarkable is the fact that the slopes of the Costa Brava constantly attract great amount esotericists and scientists. And the reason for this, apparently, are dolmens - unusual monolithic monuments, consisting of boulders and having the shape of a table. According to esotericists, ancient dolmens are the places of power of the planet.
On the Costa Brava, medieval buildings are peacefully interspersed with first-class hotels that meet the most high class service. The most popular resorts these places are considered - Lioret de Mar, Roses, Blanes, Tossa de Mar and Estartit. 
The resort of Lioret de Mar is very popular among young people and among inveterate party-goers. For active and energetic lovers of noisy rest, there are many clubs, discos and bars. But a comfortable family vacation in this resort is also quite possible. There is an abundance of family fun here - great sand beach, an oceanarium, a huge (even by European standards) water park and interesting attractions "Port Aventura", created by the famous film company Universal Studios.
Vacationers on Lioret de Mar can enjoy jet skiing or parasailing. There are more than enough hotels for accommodation here, ranging from chic five-star to inexpensive hostels. Many rooms offer great view to the sea coast.
Blanes has a quieter environment. It is located 10 kilometers south of Lioret de Mar and has a more ancient history. The first inhabitants appeared here already in the 1st century BC. The main attractions of the resort are the ruins of several ancient castles, well preserved to this day. The resort has a delightful zoo and a fun water park called Marineland. Not only little visitors, but even their adult parents are not indifferent from visiting it. On the beach it is practically paradise there is a wonderful fireworks festival every year. 
The village of Tossa de Mar, tiny in size, is hidden in a very picturesque bay on the Mediterranean coast. It is known not only as a resort with a calm and comfortable rest, but also as a town with its own distinctive and unique culture. If you go out to sea by boat, you can see the amazing panorama of Tossa de Mar - a rugged coastline strewn with soft sand sparkling in the sun and surrounded by rocky hills. An old Spanish fortress is located on one of these hills. This resort seems to be a real Eden for a comfortable family vacation, because it completely lacks an active nightlife.
Perhaps, the best resort where you can practice active sports is Calella. Almost all types of water activities are represented here - diving, windsurfing, surfing, yachting and rafting. And to them you can also add "terrestrial" views - golf, mountain bikes, tennis and many other types. 
So the Costa Brava is an excellent resort for a full and comfortable rest, no less beautiful and picturesque than the Turkish resorts. Of course, the prices for accommodation here will be higher than in Turkish hotels. But, nevertheless, it is worth taking the risk and going, if only in order to feel the difference in the quality and saturation of the rest. Enjoy your trip!
Costa Brava (in the lane from the Spanish wild coast) is located in the northeastern part of the coast of Spain - the autonomous region of Catalonia, province of Girona. Among the diversity of the Mediterranean coastline, the Costa Brava unites tourism and active rest with great beach resorts.
Costa Brava on the map
The region is famous for its sandy beaches stretching from the border with France for 214 km to the famous resort of Blanes.
Since the most ancient times, the inhabitants of Greece and Rome have chosen these steep and inaccessible rocky shores, with firs, pines and pines overgrown on them, bays with white (golden) sand and pebbles, as well as picturesque bays washed by azure sea waves.
Costa Brava was the first Spanish resort to receive tourists from Russia. The Russians chose this region, which was facilitated by more low prices on tour packages than other destinations in Spain.
How to get to the Costa Brava
For a trip to the Costa Brava, one of the three international airports of Catalonia is most convenient: Reus (8 km from Tarragona), Costa Brava (12 km from Girona) and El Prat (10 km south-west of the center of Barcelona). The most popular is Barcelona Airport - you can fly from Moscow in 4 hours.
Further there are different ways to get to the coast: this is both a bus and an electric train (the railway track is 65 km long and allows you to get only to Blanes, then automobile transport), or you can take a rental car or hire a taxi in Barcelona right away.
Costa Brava climate and weather
Costa Brava is the coast of Spain, with the coldest climate, which is distinguished by its special mildness all year round. The beach season lasts from June to October with an average summer temperature of + 25 ... + 28 ° С, in winter months the column drops to + 10 ° С. Not all tourists know that the Costa Brava is a tourist destination. all year round, and besides summer vacation on the coast, in winter period here you can visit the ski slopes in the Girona Pyrenees.
Costa Brava beaches
The environmental friendliness and service of the beach holiday is ensured by strict control by the local authorities. Most of the beaches have been awarded the Blue Flags of the European Union (an award for sustainability and cleanliness). Per high level for professionalism in the organization of the tourism sector, the I C T E institute's Q insignia are awarded to the beaches of Fanals and Lloret de Mar. Protection signs environment the beaches of Calonge and Roses possess.
Costa Brava resorts and attractions
A large number of small resort towns on the Costa Brava from year to year attracts here a large number of tourists. The most famous are Blanes, Tossa de Mar, Lloret de Mar.
Lloret de Mar has earned its reputation as the tourist capital of the Costa Brava. There are only two beaches in the city: Lloret and Fenals Beach, but there is the Water World water park, which, due to huge number attractions are also called "the city of entertainment". Tourists with children will be interested in visiting the mini-zoo "Aqualeon" and the water park "Marineland". Lovers of noisy and have fun numerous discos, nightclubs and bars await. Lovers of antiquity will not stand aside either. The cultural center "Verdakier" is famous for the relics of the Iberian region from 250 BC. NS. Connoisseurs of outdoor activities can be offered horseback riding, playing golf or tennis, or exploring the beauty of the underwater world by diving or snorkelling.
Tossa de Mar is considered to be one of the most beautiful places Costa Brava. Unlike Lloret de Mar, this is a more "family" and calm resort. Its adornment is the very ancient fortress Villa Vella (in the lane Old Village), erected in the 12th century high on a rocky shore to protect it from pirates. Fans of historical excursions will be interested in: a lighthouse with a museum, several ancient churches, the ruins of an ancient Roman villa, also located on the shore historical Museum... Sandy beaches of the resort abut against rocky shores, and sheer sea cliffs form narrow straits, beautiful bays and deep grottoes. Admire underwater beauty It is possible from a leisurely sailing boat with a transparent bottom, and those who like to actively relax can rent diving equipment or go snorkelling.
Blanes
The southernmost resort of the Costa Brava Blanes is a favorite vacation spot for tourists with children, because there is a water amusement park and the Marineland water park. In addition to the usual slides in the water park, you can see a zoo with sea animals and a dolphinarium. The ruins of the ancient castle of San Juan, buildings of the X century and the Church of Santa Maria of the XIV century are interesting for viewing. Most big market Costa Brava seafood is set in Blanes every week, while nature lovers will be amazed by the most beautiful botanical garden in Europe.
In the north of the Costa Brava, the cozy resort of Playa d'Aro is located. It has everything you need for good and unforgettable vacation: gorgeous beaches, tons of great hotels and a huge number of restaurants.
The resort of Palamos is also worth mentioning. For many decades, it was just a small coastal village, whose inhabitants fished and traded in the bark of cork trees. Status resort town he received it only in the mid-50s of the last century, during the rapid development of tourism infrastructure.
Every town on the Costa Brava celebrates the annual feast of the patron saint - fiesta mayor. At this time, craft fairs and concerts are held, fireworks are arranged and attractions for children are put on. The duration of the holiday is several days, and it ends with a parade of sparklers. In Tossa de Mar, fiesta mayo takes place from 28.06 to 1.07, in Blanes from 24.07 to 28.07, and in Lloret de Mar from 24.08 to 30.08.
Nine ways to make your Costa Brava holiday unforgettable
- Arrange a car ride along the coast in a rented car.
- Diversify your trip by reaching France or by taking a day trip to neighboring Andorra.
- For outdoor enthusiasts, get to Roses Bay and get kitesurfing lessons.
- Without missing an evening, enjoy seafood dishes in the many local restaurants.
- Visit the Botanical Garden in Blanes using a cute little train as a means of transportation.
- Be sure to visit the mind-blowing Barcelona.
- Dance all night in one of the many nightclubs in the capital's Lloret de Mar.
- Use all your patience and endurance and climb Montserrat.
- Experience the beauty of the underwater world by scuba diving in Tossa de Mar.
Popular activities on the Costa Brava
There is something to do in the Costa Brava and active tourists: the resort has several water parks, there are golf courses, for fans of water sports on the coast there are more than 30 windsurfing and scuba diving centers, canoeing, canoeing and rafting on mountain rivers. Excursions on bicycles, horseback riding or hiking can help diversify your vacation.
Costa Brava.
Costa Brava is considered to be one of the most picturesque places on the Spanish coast. The resort covers the northeastern coast of Catalonia, and stretches from the city of Blanes to the French border for 162 km. The coast here is indented with small coves, and steep cliffs stretch for 80 miles along the coast, and since the construction of ports was difficult here, nature here remained in its original form.
Sharp cliffs here are interspersed with beautiful semicircular coves with small beaches. The air here is not only pleasant, but also healthy, which is facilitated by pine forests. The local coastline is cool compared to other Spanish resorts, which attracts tourists here in the summer, who do not want to sweat from the excessive heat.
Costa Brava notable for the fact that this is where the first stream went Russian tourists, and usually a tour package here is cheaper than in other parts of Spain.
You can choose a good hotel. Choose the number of stars, price, dates and choose what you like.
How to get to the Costa Brava.
Airplane.
Most often, tourists choose Barcelona for arriving here, but international airports are also located in Gerona and Reus. The flight from Moscow takes about four hours.
You can pick up plane tickets. You drive in Barcelona and choose the desired flight for the required dates.
By bus from Barcelona you can get to any resort on the coast, in addition, there is a railway line to Blanes (65 km).
Naturally, you can get anywhere by taxi. In order to get there to the right place, you can rent a car, which will be cheaper than a taxi, and will also expand your freedom of action. Find the best way can be on this.
Towns and resorts of the Costa Brava.
Being on this coast, it is unforgivable not to visit the surrounding sights, to see authentic Spain. First of all, of course, Barcelona.
(Barcelona) .
The city that everyone, young and old, has heard about, the capital of Catalonia, with a rich historical and cultural heritage... The local architecture amazes even seasoned tourists, which are only the creations of Gaudi, the ancient Gothic Quarter, for more details about this famous city, see the article about Barcelona.
(Lloret de Mar).
The tourist capital of the coast, located 65 km from Barcelona. Any tourist with any requests will find something to their liking. Nature lovers will love the beautiful Mediterranean landscapes, fans of antiquities will see the ruins here. ancient city Loredo, in the center of the city, the 14th century monastery of St. Cristina.
Fans of party rest will find here wonderful water parks (Water World water park and the very popular Marineland water park), bars, clubs, discos, music halls who want to aquatic species sports, too, will not remain offended. Children will love the Aqualeon mini-zoo.
TossadeMar(Tossa de Mar) .
Located 12 kilometers north of Lloret de Mar. Thanks to the amazing the surrounding nature considered the pearl of the Costa Brava, and not to be unfounded, the famous Chagall was inspired by the beauty of the local landscapes, as evidenced by his work in the local museum.
The resort is considered to be more relaxed and family-friendly.
O ancient history here are reminiscent of the ruins of the powerful fortress Villa Vella, built in the days of the Iberians and Romans to protect against pirates.
(Cadaques) .
A small tourist town in the north of the coast, famous for the Perro-Mura Center for the Arts, where you can see the paintings of the great Salvador Dali.
The local embankment will delight you with cozy fish restaurants and shops.
(Blanes) .
Located 60 kilometers from Barcelona. Per a short time a small fishing village turned into modern resort with great developed infrastructure... There are rather gentle beaches, which is convenient for families with small children. Tired of doing nothing on the beach, you can visit the best Botanical Garden in Europe, with three thousand species of plants, visit the ruins of the 11th century castle of San Juan or a medieval church.
In addition, you can visit the beautiful water park "Marineland", where you will see a show with dolphins and seals, and connoisseurs of seafood can visit the largest fish market on this coast.
Roses ).
Famous for its beautiful sandy beaches framed by the rocky foothills of the Pyrenees Mountains, the nicest water park in the Costa Brava. The town is favored by kite and windsurfers due to the very suitable winds for this hobby.
Emporda (Alt Emporda).
A historical area made famous by Salvador Dali. Tourists can visit the museum and the house where the great artist lived and worked.
Monuments of ancient and medieval Catalonia harmoniously fit into the beautiful landscapes.
Every town on the coast is celebrating fiesta mayor dedicated to the patron saint, and since the Spaniards know how to celebrate and do it on a grand scale, it is worth attending this event if you find yourself on vacation at this time. The holiday usually lasts several days with fairs, fireworks, concerts, entertainment for children.
The beaches of the Costa Brava.
All the beaches of the resort are municipal, equipped, with sun loungers and umbrellas rental. In Lloret de Mar, the longest one and a half kilometer sandy beach is located right in the center of the city, there are also quieter, but no less clean and comfortable beaches. Fenals and Santa cristina .
The central beach of Tossa de Mar with its dark sand is famous for its bustling life, beach bars and restaurants. Lovers more quiet rest prefer the beach Kodolar .
In the town of Roses, tourists will appreciate the beach Almadrava, repeatedly awarded the Blue Flag, located next to the reserve Cape Creus... There is also a quiet calm beach La Perola perfect for families.
L "Estartit will delight vacationers with a four-kilometer beach Pals surrounded by pine trees and a beach reserve Montgo .
Sand beach San Francesc , in the resort, is very gentle, which will delight not only families with small children, but also those who simply cannot swim.
Attractions and excursions of the Costa Brava.
. The main attraction of the coast.
MonasteryMontserrat (Monasterio de Montserrat).
The famous monastery of Benedictine monks, built in the 11th century on the top of the mountain. Local celebrity is the sculpture of St. Mary made of wood. Thousands of pilgrims and tourists flock to the monastery to see the sculpture and the monastery itself. Here you can also listen to the boys' choir, where Jose Carreras once sang.
You can get here by cable car or by the recently opened rack railway.
Located in the city of Tossa de Mar.
Emporion... Ruins of the most ancient Greek city in Spain.
. Located in Figueres. There are no guides in the museum, because the great artist so wished. Admirers of his talent can visit the Gala Dali castle, which he donated to his beloved, and the house-museum in Cadaqués.
Close to the coastal town of L "Estartit, a popular destination for divers and amateurs. boat trips... Here you can get acquainted with the rich Mediterranean underwater world with scuba diving or simply ride a boat with a transparent bottom. The flora and fauna of these six islands is so diverse that even ichthyologists are surprised.
National parks Garrocha, Creus, L "Albert, Montseny, Empora. Picturesque places for lovers of virgin nature. In Garroch you can admire several extinct volcanoes.
Diving center in the town of L "Estartit. There is also a marine reserve near the Medes Islands.
The climate of the Costa Brava.
The coast of the resort is relatively cool, the average monthly temperature does not exceed 28 o C, and the water temperature in summer is usually 21-23 o C.
