7 Towns on the Costa Brava for a Perfect Weekend Getaway

From medieval villages to hidden coves and seaside charm, discover the best towns on the Costa Brava for a perfect weekend escape.

Boats on a sandy beach in Calella de Palafrugell. Photo by Manuel Torres Garcia.

The Costa Brava is often thought of as a summer holiday destination, with visitors spending a week or more enjoying its beaches, charming villages, and Mediterranean food. But what many travellers overlook is that it’s also perfect for a weekend escape. With its proximity to Girona and Barcelona—both well-connected to the UK—it’s easy to visit for just a few days.

A weekend trip to the Costa Brava can be just as rewarding as a longer stay. Whether you’re looking for a quiet medieval village, a lively seaside town, or a mix of nature and culture, there’s a town that suits every kind of traveller. Plus, visiting in spring or autumn means fewer crowds, pleasant temperatures, and a more relaxed atmosphere.

This guide explores seven of the best towns for a short break, each offering something different—history, great food, coastal walks, or hidden beaches.

The best Costa Brava towns for a weekend escape

1. Tossa de Mar – history and coastal charm

Tossa de Mar is a great option for a weekend break that combines history, scenery, and the sea. Unlike some of the larger resort towns, it retains a more traditional feel, with its well-preserved medieval old town sitting right by the beach.

Tossa de Mar’s castle at sunset. Photo by Joshua Kettle.

Why visit for a weekend?

• The Vila Vella: Tossa de Mar’s old town is one of the most iconic sights on the Costa Brava. The castle walls, built to protect against pirates, now offer incredible views over the coastline.
• Beaches without the crowds: Unlike larger beach resorts, Tossa de Mar has quieter, picturesque coves like Platja d’es Codolar.
• Perfect size for two days: The town is small enough to explore fully in a weekend, but there’s plenty to keep you busy.

Weekend highlights

• Walk along the castle walls at sunset for panoramic sea views.
• Take a boat trip to nearby hidden coves and snorkelling spots.
• Have a seafood lunch at Can Sophia, the restaurant of Casa Granados Boutique Hotel, set in a beautifully restored 19th-century house.

Getting there

• From Girona Airport: 40 minutes by car.
• From Barcelona Airport: 1 hour 20 minutes by car, or a direct bus from Barcelona (around 1.5 hours).

2. Begur – boutique stays and coastal views

Begur is one of the most stylish and picturesque towns on the Costa Brava. Perched on a hill overlooking the coast, it offers a mix of medieval history, boutique hotels, and stunning beaches just a short drive away. It’s a great choice for a weekend break if you want a bit of everything—relaxation, great food, and scenic coastal walks.

The Catalan flag above the ruins of Begur castle. Photo by christels.

Why visit for a weekend?

• Charming old town: Begur’s streets are lined with colourful houses, independent shops, and lively cafés.
• Historic castle ruins: The Castell de Begur, a medieval fortress, provides spectacular views over the coastline.
• Hidden beaches: The nearby coves, such as Sa Tuna and Aiguablava, are some of the most beautiful on the Costa Brava.
• Boutique accommodation: Many small hotels and guesthouses offer a more intimate, stylish stay.

Weekend highlights

• Walk up to the Begur Castle ruins for breath-taking views of the coastline.
• Take a short drive to Aiguablava beach, known for its crystal-clear waters.
• Enjoy dinner at Can Kai, a popular spot for Catalan-Asian fusion cuisine.

Getting there

• From Girona Airport: 50 minutes by car.
• From Barcelona Airport: 1 hour 40 minutes by car.

3. Cadaqués – art, culture, and coastal beauty

Cadaqués is one of the most distinctive towns on the Costa Brava, known for its whitewashed houses, artistic heritage, and dramatic coastal setting. A favourite of Salvador Dalí and other artists, it has a unique atmosphere that feels more like a Greek island than a typical Spanish town. It’s the perfect weekend destination for those who love art, culture, and scenic walks.

Picturesque Cadaqúes. Photo by Leyre.

Why visit for a weekend?

• Dalí connection: The nearby Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat gives insight into the artist’s life and creative process.
• Stunning coastal scenery: Cadaqués is located on Cap de Creus, with its rugged cliffs and crystal-clear waters.
• Relaxed, upmarket vibe: The town has a mix of laid-back cafés, excellent seafood restaurants, and boutique hotels.

Weekend highlights

• Visit the Dalí House-Museum (advance booking recommended).
• Walk along the coastal path to Cap de Creus, a dramatic headland with hidden coves.
• Enjoy dinner at Compartir, a restaurant run by former chefs from the famous El Bulli.

Getting there

• From Girona Airport: 1 hour 20 minutes by car.
• From Barcelona Airport: 2 hours 30 minutes by car.
• Public transport: There’s no direct train, but buses run from Figueres, which is accessible by train from Barcelona.

4. Llafranc – a classic seaside escape

Llafranc is a small but elegant coastal town that has remained popular with travellers looking for a laid-back yet stylish beach destination. With its seafront promenade, golden sandy beach, and excellent restaurants, it’s ideal for a relaxing weekend by the sea without the crowds of larger resort towns.

Boats on the beach at Llafranc. Photo by lloydcl2.

Why visit for a weekend?

• Unspoiled seaside charm: Unlike some of the busier resort towns, Llafranc has a more upmarket, peaceful atmosphere.
• Coastal walks: The Camí de Ronda coastal path connects Llafranc to nearby Calella de Palafrugell, offering stunning sea views.
• Great food and wine: Some of the best seafood restaurants on the Costa Brava can be found here.

Weekend highlights

• Relax on Llafranc’s beach, one of the most picturesque in the region.
• Walk to Sant Sebastià Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views.
• Enjoy a meal at Casamar, a Michelin-starred restaurant with fresh local ingredients.

Getting there

• From Girona Airport: 50 minutes by car.
• From Barcelona Airport: 1 hour 40 minutes by car.

5. Roses – for beach lovers and nature explorers

Roses is one of the larger towns on the Costa Brava, offering a mix of sandy beaches, a lively seafront, and easy access to nature reserves. It’s a great weekend destination for those who want a balance of relaxation, outdoor activities, and good food.

Cala Canyelles Petita. Photo by Marta Moya.

Why visit for a weekend?

• Spacious sandy beaches: Unlike many Costa Brava towns with small coves, Roses has long, sandy beaches with shallow waters.
• Cap de Creus Natural Park: A short drive away, this rugged nature reserve is perfect for hiking and exploring hidden coves.
• Fresh seafood: Roses has a working fishing port, meaning top-quality seafood in local restaurants.

Weekend highlights

• Take a boat trip to Cap de Creus, stopping at secluded coves along the way.
• Visit the Ciutadella de Roses, a historic fortress with Roman and medieval ruins.
• Enjoy a seafood meal at Rafa’s, a no-frills but highly rated spot for ultra-fresh fish.

Getting there

• From Girona Airport: 1 hour by car.
• From Barcelona Airport: 2 hours by car.
• Public transport: Buses run from Figueres, which is accessible by train from Barcelona.

6. Peratallada – a peaceful medieval retreat

Peratallada is one of the best-preserved medieval villages in Catalonia, offering a completely different experience from the coastal towns of the Costa Brava. With stone-paved streets, ivy-covered buildings, and a quiet rural atmosphere, it’s the perfect weekend getaway for those looking to slow down and soak in history.

The narrow cobbled streets of Peratallada. Photo by Héctor J. Rivas.

Why visit for a weekend?

• Timeless medieval charm: Walking through Peratallada feels like stepping back in time, with its ancient stone houses, defensive walls, and a castle.
• Relaxed, car-free atmosphere: The village is mostly pedestrianised, making it a peaceful place to explore.
• Excellent Catalan cuisine: Peratallada is known for traditional restaurants serving local specialities in atmospheric settings.

Weekend highlights

• Wander the narrow medieval streets and soak in the history.
• Visit Castell de Peratallada, the castle that dominates the village.
• Enjoy a long, relaxed meal at Hostal Blau or El Pati, two highly rated Catalan restaurants.

Getting there

• From Girona Airport: 45 minutes by car.
• From Barcelona Airport: 1 hour 40 minutes by car.
• Public transport: Limited, so a car is recommended for easy access.

7. L’Escala – for food lovers and coastal walks

L’Escala is a seaside town with a strong fishing heritage, famous for its anchovies, seafood, and coastal scenery. It’s an excellent choice for a weekend break, especially for those who enjoy authentic Catalan cuisine, quiet beaches, and scenic walks along the coast.

View of the snow-capped Pyrenees from l’Escala. Photo by Oriol Farré.

Why visit for a weekend?

• Food and seafood culture: L’Escala is known for its salted anchovies, a regional delicacy, and has fantastic seafood restaurants.
• Greco-Roman ruins at Empúries: One of the most fascinating historical sites on the Costa Brava, offering a glimpse into ancient Mediterranean civilisations.
• Seafront and coastal trails: The town’s promenade and the Camí de Ronda coastal path provide stunning sea views.

Weekend highlights

• Explore the Empúries archaeological site, with its ancient ruins and sea-facing amphitheatre.
• Try L’Escala’s famous anchovies at a local tapas bar.
• Walk along the Camí de Ronda, stopping at quiet coves along the way.

Getting there

• From Girona Airport: 45 minutes by car.
• From Barcelona Airport: 1 hour 40 minutes by car.
• Public transport: Buses run from Figueres, which has train connections from Barcelona.

Practical tips for a weekend trip

How to get there

The Costa Brava is well connected to the UK, with frequent flights to Girona and Barcelona airports.

• Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO): The closest airport, with direct flights from London, Manchester, and other UK cities. Car rentals and bus connections make it easy to reach Costa Brava towns in 30–90 minutes.
• Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN): A larger airport with more international flights. Towns on the southern Costa Brava (like Tossa de Mar) are 1–2 hours away by car or bus.
• Train connections: Girona and Figueres are on the high-speed AVE train network, with fast trains from Barcelona, Madrid, and even France. From these cities, buses or taxis can take you to coastal towns.

Where to stay

Each town offers different types of accommodation, from beachfront hotels to guesthouses and private villas.

• Luxury & boutique stays:
  • Begur: Hotel Aiguaclara (stylish boutique hotel in a colonial mansion).
  • Cadaqués: Hotel Playa Sol (seafront hotel with great views).
  • Llafranc: Hotel Casamar (Michelin-starred restaurant with boutique rooms).
• Seaside resorts & hotels:
  • Tossa de Mar: Gran Hotel Reymar (spa, beach access, great views).
  • Roses: Hotel Vistabella (5-star beachside hotel with a rooftop restaurant).
  • L’Escala: Hostal Spa Empúries (eco-friendly hotel near Empúries ruins).
• Rural escapes & historic stays:
  • Peratallada: Hotel Aatu (charming countryside retreat).
  • Begur countryside: Mas Ses Vinyes (rural hotel surrounded by nature).

Best time to visit

While summer is the most popular season, a weekend trip outside peak months can be just as enjoyable—if not better.

• Spring (March–May): Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, fewer tourists. Ideal for hiking, sightseeing, and relaxed beach days.
• Summer (June–August): Hot weather, lively atmosphere, perfect for beach lovers but busiest time of year.
• Autumn (September–November): Warm sea temperatures, quieter towns, great for food festivals and wine tasting.
• Winter (December–February): Quietest season, good for cultural trips and cosy stays in medieval villages like Peratallada.

Finding your perfect Costa Brava escape

With its mix of medieval villages, artistic heritage, hidden coves, and seaside charm, the Costa Brava offers something for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful retreat, an active coastal adventure, or a foodie getaway, there’s a town that fits your ideal weekend.

Thanks to short flights from the UK and excellent transport connections, a trip here is easier than you might think. While summer is perfect for basking on the beaches, spring and autumn offer a quieter, more relaxed way to explore the region’s breathtaking landscapes and rich culture. Whenever you visit, the Costa Brava is ready to deliver an unforgettable escape.

Tags: Begur, Cadaques, L'Escala, Llafranc, Peratallada, Roses, Tossa de Mar