Tossa de Mar Barcelona
A medieval gem on the Costa Brava, Tossa de Mar offers a stunning walled old town, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters, just an hour from Barc...

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Tossa de Mar Barcelona
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A medieval gem on the Costa Brava, Tossa de Mar offers a stunning walled old town, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters, just an hour from Barcelona.
"This little coastal town has been one of my favorites ever since I visited for the first time 5 years ago."
🚌 Bus is the Way to Go
Take the bus from Barcelona's Estació del Nord for an easy, affordable trip.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Get lost in the charming medieval streets of Vila Vella for a truly historic experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vila Vella (Old Town)
Walled medieval town
Wander through ancient cobblestone streets within the only remaining fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast.
Platja Gran
Main beach
The iconic main beach with the medieval castle as a stunning backdrop. Perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

Cala Giverola
Secluded cove
A picturesque cove with crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine sand, and surrounding cliffs and pine trees.

Ava Gardner Statue
Castle grounds
A tribute to the Hollywood star who filmed 'Pandora and the Flying Dutchman' here.
Planning Your Visit
Getting There: Bus is Best
Timing is Key for Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚌 Bus is the Way to Go
Take the bus from Barcelona's Estació del Nord for an easy, affordable trip.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Get lost in the charming medieval streets of Vila Vella for a truly historic experience.
🏖️ Beach Bliss
Enjoy Platja Gran or discover hidden coves like Cala Giverola for a swim.
⛰️ Hike the Camino de Ronda
For stunning coastal views, hike this scenic trail towards Lloret de Mar.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚌 Bus is the Way to Go
Take the bus from Barcelona's Estació del Nord for an easy, affordable trip.
🚶♀️ Explore the Old Town
Get lost in the charming medieval streets of Vila Vella for a truly historic experience.
🏖️ Beach Bliss
Enjoy Platja Gran or discover hidden coves like Cala Giverola for a swim.
⛰️ Hike the Camino de Ronda
For stunning coastal views, hike this scenic trail towards Lloret de Mar.
📸 Capture Castle Views
The viewpoint at Cala es Codolar offers breathtaking perspectives of the castle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tossa de Mar is widely praised for its stunning medieval architecture, beautiful beaches, and crystal-clear waters, offering a picturesque escape from Barcelona. Visitors love the charming old town and the scenic coastal views. Some find it can get very crowded during peak summer months, and transportation can be a bit of a journey.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most recommended and convenient way is by bus from Barcelona's Estació del Nord. Buses run frequently and take approximately 90 minutes.
Some travelers suggest taking a train to Blanes and then a bus, but the direct bus is generally preferred for ease.The bus journey typically takes around 90 minutes, though it can vary slightly depending on traffic and the specific route.
Yes, you can take a bus from Barcelona Airport to Tossa de Mar. Look for transfer links as they are available and inexpensive, though they may not be direct.
Alternatively, you can take a bus or train into the city center and then catch the bus from Estació del Nord.Yes, it's straightforward. Buses run regularly from Tossa de Mar back to Barcelona's Estació del Nord, making it easy to return after your day trip.
Yes, there are direct bus services from Barcelona's Estació del Nord to Tossa de Mar. This is the most popular option for travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
It's highly recommended to book your bus tickets in advance, especially during peak tourist season, to ensure you get a seat and avoid disappointment.
Tossa de Mar itself is a town and its beaches are free to access. There are no general entrance fees to explore the town or its public areas.
Vila Vella, the medieval walled town, is generally accessible at all times as it's part of the town. However, individual shops or museums within the walls may have specific opening hours.
While the castle walls are part of the town's charm and accessible, there might be small fees for specific areas or museums within the castle complex. It's best to check on-site for current pricing.
There are no specific 'attraction passes' for Tossa de Mar as most of its appeal lies in its natural beauty and historic town. Enjoying the beaches, wandering the old town, and taking in the views are the main activities.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Platja Gran with the castle backdrop,
the viewpoints from Vila Vella, and secluded coves like Cala Giverola and Cala es Codolar. The narrow streets of the old town also offer charming photo opportunities.While drone photography can offer stunning aerial views, be mindful of local regulations and privacy concerns. The dramatic coastline and medieval castle are prime subjects.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the clear blue waters are still photogenic.
Absolutely! Most smartphones capture excellent photos of Tossa de Mar's beauty. Focus on composition and capturing the unique atmosphere.
Yes, Cala es Codolar offers a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the castle and coastline.
Exploring the ramparts of Vila Vella also provides elevated perspectives.🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Pizzería Bello is a well-regarded beachfront restaurant known for its pizzas and pastas.
Many visitors enjoy fresh seafood and local Catalan cuisine at restaurants within the old town and along the promenade.While seafood is prominent, many restaurants offer pasta, salads, and vegetable dishes. It's advisable to check menus or ask staff about vegetarian and vegan options.
Expect fresh Mediterranean flavors, with an emphasis on seafood, paella, and traditional Catalan dishes. Local wines are also a highlight.
Prices can vary. Beachfront restaurants and those in prime tourist spots might be pricier, while options slightly off the main drag can offer better value.
Yes, many bars and restaurants offer a selection of tapas. It's a great way to sample various local flavors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Getting to Tossa de Mar from Barcelona
For those arriving at Barcelona Airport (BCN), you can reach Tossa de Mar by taking a bus or train into the city center and then connecting to the bus from Estació del Nord. While direct taxi services are available, they are significantly more expensive than public transport. The bus is an economical and efficient choice that allows you to relax and enjoy the journey without the stress of driving and parking.
Key Takeaways for Bus Travel:
* Departure Point: Estació del Nord, Barcelona
* Duration: Approximately 90 minutes
* Recommendation: Book tickets in advance, especially in summer.
* Airport Access: Connect via city center buses/trains.
Exploring Tossa de Mar's Medieval Charm
Within the Vila Vella, you can also find the Gothic church of Sant Vicenç and the Far de Tossa (lighthouse), which provides further historical context and stunning vistas. A unique point of interest is the Ava Gardner statue, commemorating the Hollywood actress who filmed 'Pandora and the Flying Dutchman' in Tossa de Mar, adding a touch of cinematic history to the medieval atmosphere. The combination of its well-preserved architecture and stunning coastal setting makes Vila Vella a truly captivating experience for history buffs and casual visitors alike.
Highlights of Vila Vella:
* Fortified Walls: Explore the ancient defensive structures.
* Cobblestone Streets: Wander through charming, historic pathways.
* Castle Ramparts: Enjoy breathtaking views of the town and sea.
* Ava Gardner Statue: A nod to the town's cinematic past.
Discovering Tossa de Mar's Beautiful Beaches and Coves
Beyond the main beach, Tossa de Mar is famous for its calas (coves), which offer more intimate and tranquil swimming experiences. Cala Giverola is frequently highlighted for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, fine sand, and surrounding cliffs and pine trees, creating a postcard-perfect setting. Another notable spot is Cala es Codolar, which not only offers a beautiful beach but also a fantastic viewpoint overlooking the castle. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Cala Boadella is mentioned as a place where one can bathe in a more natural setting. Many of these coves are accessible by foot or a short boat trip, adding to the adventure of discovering Tossa de Mar's coastal treasures.
Beach & Cove Highlights:
* Platja Gran: Main beach with castle views.
* Cala Giverola: Turquoise waters and scenic cliffs.
* Cala es Codolar: Beautiful cove with castle viewpoint.
* Cala Boadella: Secluded spot for a natural swim.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit