What to see on the Costa Brava
With a base in Lloret de Mar you have some of the most beautiful corners of the Mediterranean within easy reach: walled medieval villages, turquoise-water coves, cities steeped in history and wild landscapes. These are the day trips you can't miss.
Tossa de Mar
Just 20 minutes from Lloret, Tossa de Mar is one of the gems of the Costa Brava. Its Vila Vella, the only walled medieval enclosure still standing along the whole Catalan coast, crowns a beautiful beach. Wander its alleyways, climb up to the lighthouse and enjoy the views: an essential day trip.
Girona
About 40 minutes away, Girona enchants with its cathedral, the Arab baths, the colourful houses along the Onyar and the best-preserved Jewish quarter in Europe. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognise several filming locations. If you go in May, don't miss Temps de Flors, when the city fills with flower-filled courtyards.
The coves of Begur and Palafrugell
The heart of the most beautiful Costa Brava lies a little further north: Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, Tamariu and the coves of Begur (Sa Tuna, Aiguablava) are picture-postcard perfect: white houses, fishing boats and turquoise waters. They deserve a full day out.
Cadaqués and Cap de Creus
At the far north, Cadaqués —Dalí's village— and the Cap de Creus Natural Park offer one of the most spectacular landscapes in the Mediterranean. It's a fair way from Lloret (around 2 hours), but if you have a free day and love wild scenery, it's unforgettable. Nearby is the Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat.
Charming inland villages
The Costa Brava is not just coast. Pals, Peratallada and Monells are medieval stone villages among the prettiest in Catalonia, ideal for a morning stroll and a good lunch. Very close by are also the Ruins of Empúries, a Greco-Roman site by the sea.
Boat trips and the Camí de Ronda
One of the best ways to see the Costa Brava is from the sea: there are boat trips that link Lloret with Tossa and Blanes and reveal coves you can't reach on foot. And for keen walkers, the Camí de Ronda hugs cliffs and coves with spectacular views.
Day trips from Lloret
- Closest
- Tossa de Mar (20 min) and Blanes, easy by bus or boat.
- City
- Girona (40 min): cathedral, Jewish quarter and old town.
- Top coves
- Begur, Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc and Tamariu.
- Full day
- Cadaqués and Cap de Creus, the wild landscape of the north.
Frequently asked questions
Which villages should you see on the Costa Brava?
Tossa de Mar, Calella de Palafrugell, Llafranc, Begur, Cadaqués and inland medieval villages like Pals and Peratallada are among the most beautiful.
What day trips can you do from Lloret de Mar?
Tossa de Mar (20 min), Girona (40 min), the coves of Begur and Palafrugell, and boat trips along the coast are the most popular.
Is it worth visiting Girona from Lloret?
Yes. It's about 40 minutes away and its old town, cathedral and Jewish quarter make it one of the best day trips.
How do you get around the Costa Brava without a car?
With buses between towns, organised excursions and tourist boats. For the most hidden coves, a car or boat gives more freedom.
How many days do I need to see the Costa Brava?
With a base in Lloret and 4-5 days you can combine the beach with day trips to Tossa, Girona and the northern coves without feeling rushed.