Costa Brava
Rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and charming fishing villages — here's everything you need to plan your Costa Brava trip.
Our Review of the Costa Brava
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Flair
Rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and serious Mediterranean charm — this stretch of coastline feels nothing like the big resort strips.
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Travel season
June through September is prime time for a beach vacation. July and August are the busiest — if you prefer quieter beaches, aim for June or early September.
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Travel duration
Give yourself five to seven days to explore the coastal towns and venture a bit inland. It's totally doable, and you won't feel rushed.
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Price level
Moderate to upscale — budget-friendly spots exist, but the more exclusive restaurants and hotels do cost noticeably more.
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Food
Fresh seafood is everywhere. Don't leave without trying the famous grilled sardines right by the water — they're seriously good.
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Transport
Rent a car. It's the best way to reach the smaller coves that buses simply don't serve — and the coastal drives are stunning.
FAQ
What's the best way to get around the Costa Brava?
Honestly, public transportation on the Costa Brava is pretty limited. The train line runs inland, connecting Barcelona with Girona and Figueres — it doesn’t reach the coast again until Llança. Most towns right on the water are only accessible by bus.
For bus routes, check the Sagales website or Moventis (Spanish only). Getting to the coast from Girona is pretty straightforward — but hopping between coastal towns is where it gets tricky. Check schedules on the ground before you commit to a plan.
Our tip: Just rent a car. It’s super affordable across Spain and makes everything so much easier.
What language is spoken on the Costa Brava?
Catalonia is bilingual — people speak both Catalan and Spanish, and in the smaller villages along the Costa Brava you’ll hear Catalan more often than in Barcelona.
During peak season, though, the coast gets seriously international. Near the French border — in towns like Roses or Cadaqués — you’ll get along just fine with French. English works too, though it varies.
If you’re visiting outside of peak season and get to meet real locals, dropping a friendly “bon dia” (that’s “good day” in Catalan) will absolutely earn you some bonus points.
Do you tip at the Costa Brava?
Locals rarely leave tips, and when they do, it’s usually just a small amount. That said, staff are well aware that tourists tend to tip — so a little extra is always appreciated.
With low wages and long summer hours, most waiters and hotel staff work pretty much non-stop through the season. A small tip goes a long way.
