14-day road trip along the Costa Brava and the gems of Empordà

Along secluded coves, medieval villages and authentic Catalan life

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Discover the Surprising North of Spain

Look beyond the well-known Costa Brava and discover a different side of Catalonia. This road trip takes you through Empordà, one of the region’s most characterful areas, where centuries-old traditions, Mediterranean landscapes and the unmistakable Catalan way of life come together. From vibrant Barcelona, you’ll make your way into the heart of Empordà. Step into the surreal world of Salvador Dalí, wander through whitewashed coastal villages such as Cadaqués and discover centuries-old towns like Pals and Rupit, where life moves at a slower pace. Along the way, it’s all about enjoying the good things in life. Taste local wines among the vineyards, discover the centuries-old craft of ceramics in La Bisbal d’Empordà, walk along the rugged Costa Brava coastline and settle into atmospheric restaurants where Catalan cuisine takes centre stage.

Highlights

Wander past the atmospheric ceramic workshops of La Bisbal d’Empordà, Catalonia’s pottery capital
Taste local wines and artisanal ciders among the orchards of the D.O. Empordà
Follow the historic Camí de Ronda coastal path past the whitewashed fishermen’s houses of Calella de Palafrugell

About This Trip

14 days (Fly & Drive)

Including unique places to stay

Starting at €2,590 per person.

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Itinerary

Road Map of Catalonia: Travel Offers in Spain

The itinerary

Days 1–3

Barcelona

Your journey through Catalonia begins in Barcelona, the region’s vibrant capital where history, architecture and gastronomy come together. Before heading into the tranquillity of Empordà, this is the perfect place to get to know Catalan culture. Admire the distinctive architecture of Antoni Gaudí, wander through atmospheric neighbourhoods such as El Born and the Gothic Quarter, and settle down at a terrace for tapas, local wines and a glass of vermouth. Barcelona is a city you don’t visit solely for its famous sights, but to soak up its atmosphere and rhythm. Be sure to explore La Barceloneta too. Stroll along the seafront promenade, sample fresh seafood and enjoy the Mediterranean pace of life that makes Barcelona so distinctive.

Days 4–5

Figueres & Cadaqués

You leave Barcelona behind and drive toward Empordà, where the atmosphere changes immediately. The landscape becomes more peaceful, with roads winding through the rolling hills. Your first stop is Figueres, the birthplace of the world-famous artist Salvador Dalí. The impressive Dalí Theater-Museum is, of course, a highlight here. The museum, designed by Dalí himself, takes you into his surrealist world full of extraordinary works of art and unexpected details. Not far from Figueres, you’ll find the vineyards and olive groves of Empordà. Visit a local winery and taste the wines from this distinctive region, where tradition and a passion for the craft take center stage. Afterward, you’ll travel on to Cadaqués, one of the most unique coastal towns on the Costa Brava. The whitewashed village is tucked away among the mountains of the Cap de Creus Natural Park and has inspired artists throughout the centuries, including Salvador Dalí. Stroll through the narrow streets, discover small galleries, and enjoy the view of the Mediterranean Sea.

Days 6–7

Castelló d'Empúries & La Bisbal d'Empordà

After exploring the rugged coastline of Cap de Creus and the Mediterranean atmosphere of Cadaqués, you’ll travel further into the authentic Empordà countryside. Here you’ll discover a landscape of vineyards, olive groves, and historic villages where traditions are still an integral part of daily life. Castelló d’Empúries is a charming medieval village with a rich history. Stroll through the old streets and admire the impressive Basilica of Santa Maria, also known as the ‘Cathedral of Empordà.’ Nearby, you’ll also find the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà nature reserve, a beautiful marshland where you can take lovely walks and spot rare birds. From there, continue on to La Bisbal d’Empordà, one of Catalonia’s most important centers for ceramics. For centuries, this village has been known for its artisanal pottery, and throughout the streets you’ll find shops and studios filled with colorful ceramics. It’s the perfect place to take home a unique handmade piece or try your hand at pottery during a workshop. In addition to craftsmanship, this region is all about enjoyment. Discover local products, taste wines from the Empordà, and dine at charming restaurants where Catalan cuisine takes center stage.

Days 8–10

Pals & Begur

You’ll continue the route through Empordà to two of the region’s most beautiful destinations: the medieval town of Pals and the charming town of Begur. Pals is one of Catalonia’s best-preserved medieval villages. Wander through the narrow cobblestone streets, admire the centuries-old stone houses, and enjoy the view of the rolling landscapes of Empordà from the highest point. In the surrounding area, you’ll find various wineries and local producers, as well as Mooma, an artisanal cider farm where you can enjoy a tasting or lunch among the apple orchards. Not much further away lies Begur, perhaps one of the most beautiful spots on the Costa Brava. The charming town center is surrounded by the ruins of a medieval castle and serves as the ideal base for exploring the idyllic coves in the area, such as Sa Tuna, Aiguablava, and Platja Fonda. Each is a beautiful beach with crystal-clear blue water, tucked away among the rocks. Put on your hiking shoes for a section of the Camí de Ronda, the historic coastal trail that winds along the rugged coastline and offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Coastal village of Calella de Palafrugell

Day 11

Calella de Palafrugell

After exploring the historic villages of the Empordà, you’ll return to the coast one last time. Calella de Palafrugell is perhaps one of the most charming seaside towns on the Costa Brava. White fishermen’s cottages, colorful boats, and cozy outdoor cafes give the town an authentic Mediterranean feel. From Calella, you can take one of the region’s most beautiful hikes: the Camí de Ronda to Llafranc. This historic coastal trail takes you past hidden coves, rugged cliffs, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.

Days 12–13

Girona

After visiting the coast, you’ll travel inland to Girona, a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and gastronomy. Stroll through the charming historic center, pass by the colorful houses along the Onyar River, and explore the narrow streets of the Jewish quarter, one of the best-preserved in Europe. Climb the centuries-old city walls for a panoramic view of the city, or grab a table at one of the many restaurants specializing in Catalan cuisine. Visiting Girona in May? During Temps de Flors, the city transforms into a colorful open-air museum filled with floral art.

Day 14

Rupit & the Return Trip

Before driving back to Barcelona, make one final stop in Rupit, a hidden mountain village in the heart of the Collsacabra nature area. Stone houses, narrow streets and flower-filled façades give the village an almost fairytale-like charm. Take a short walk to the impressive Salt de Sallent, the highest waterfall in Catalonia, or simply settle down with a coffee on a cosy terrace before bringing your road trip to an end. From here, follow a scenic route through the Catalan countryside back to Barcelona, where this varied journey filled with nature, gastronomy, culture and special places comes to a close.

Beautiful stays

Barcelona

Yurbban Passage Hotel & Spa

Ready for Barcelona? This stylish boutique hotel in Ciutat Vella is within walking distance of El Born and the Gothic Quarter. After a day of tapas and boutiques, relax by the rooftop pool with skyline views. There’s also a private underground car park.

Cadaqués

Horta d'en Rahola Boutique

Enjoy a glass of local wine under the olive trees in the sheltered garden of this small hotel. This historic mansion with a saltwater pool is just a few minutes’ walk from the beach and the picturesque alleyways.

Castelló d'Empúries

Hotel Palau Macelli & Spa

In this elegant 17th-century palace, historic architecture blends with serene, modern luxury. Relax in the pool or unwind in the intimate spa. Here, you’ll be staying right in the medieval heart of Castelló d’Empúries.

Begur

Hotel Galena Mas Comangau

Enjoy the panoramic views of the hills from the sunny terrace of Hotel Galena Mas Comangau. This restored 18th-century Catalan farmhouse combines excellent local cuisine with rustic and charming rooms.

Girona

Hotel Nord 1901

A fairytale-like courtyard with a refreshing pool forms the heart of this grand 19th-century mansion in Girona. Enjoy intimate luxury and classic elegance right in the city centre, complete with a private garage.

Practical information

This road trip through Catalonia and Empordà is all about enjoying the journey. We take care of everything, from your flights and rental car to characterful places to stay along the way. All that’s left for you is to explore this authentic region of Spain at your own pace and enjoy the freedom of the open road.

Included

Round-trip flights to Barcelona, including carry-on and checked baggage
All-inclusive rental car (including damage and theft coverage)
All overnight stays in centrally located hotels, charming apartments, or cozy accommodations
Daily breakfast included with all stays
A personal digital travel guide packed with insider tips for scenic hiking routes, ceramic shops, local wineries, beautiful beaches and authentic tapas bars

Arrange it yourself

Fuel, tolls, and any parking fees for the rental car
Lunches, dinners, and other meals
Travel and Cancellation Insurance
Optional excursions, admission fees, and wine tastings (unless booked as an add-on)

The best time for this road trip through Catalonia is from April to June and September to October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant, nature is at its best and the coastal towns and historic villages are generally much quieter than during the peak summer season.

July and August are also great options, especially if you’d like to combine the road trip with a few beach days along the Costa Brava. Keep in mind that temperatures are higher and coastal areas can be considerably busier during these months.

Spring and early fall are ideal for hiking, visiting local markets and vineyards, and fully enjoying the cuisine and relaxed atmosphere of the Empordà.

During this road trip through Catalonia and Empordà, you'll stay in charming boutique hotels and historic mansions. All stays include a delicious daily breakfast, so you can start each day off right. The starting price for this sample itinerary is based on two people sharing a standard double room (room upgrades or extensions are available upon request).

Good to know: Our trips are custom-designed and subject to current availability. If any of the suggested accommodations are fully booked during your travel dates, we will, of course, find you an equivalent and equally charming alternative. Any local tourist taxes or parking fees are to be paid on site at the accommodation.

Is it possible to extend or modify this trip?

Absolutely! Since all our trips are custom-designed, we’ll tailor the itinerary entirely to your preferences. Would you like to spend a few extra days on the beaches of the Costa Brava? We’ll make that happen. Or would you prefer to spend more time in the medieval villages of Empordà? That’s possible, too. Just let us know, and we’ll tailor the itinerary, hotels, and rental car entirely to your preferences.

How does parking a rental car work in cities and historic villages?

The selected boutique hotels in larger cities such as Barcelona and Girona offer secure private parking (for a fee). In small villages such as Cadaqués and Begur, you’ll often park in a private parking lot or a public parking lot near the hotel. Of course, we’ll provide you with specific information about this for each hotel.

Can you book excursions and tastings for us in advance?

Absolutely! We’d be happy to take care of the reservations to ensure a hassle-free experience. Think of tickets to the Dalí Theatre-Museu in Figueres, an artisanal cider tasting at Mooma, an exclusive wine tasting in the D.O. Empordà region, or a creative workshop at one of the pottery studios in La Bisbal d’Empordà.

Is this route mountainous or difficult to drive?

No, the route is generally very easy to drive. You’ll mainly be driving on quiet country roads and scenic routes through the rolling countryside. Only the scenic coastal road through the Cap de Creus Nature Park toward Cadaqués has a few winding turns, but that’s exactly what makes for breathtaking views.

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A trip that truly suits you starts with listening to your wishes and travel dreams. Together, we’ll map out your ideal route, filled with special places and memorable experiences. We’ll take care of all the practical details, from flights to excursions. Sounds good, right?

Travander is affiliated with Personal Touch Travel, a member of ANVR and SGR.

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