Cadaqués and Portlligat
Discover the village that inspired Salvador Dalí and visit his seaside house and studio.
The Costa Brava
Where the Pyrenees plunge into the Mediterranean, the Costa Brava unfolds a rugged coastline of rocky coves and fishing villages, a land that inspired painter Salvador Dalí and countless other artists.
Why visit the Costa Brava?
The Costa Brava charms with its wild coastline alternating rocky coves and sandy beaches, its preserved fishing villages and its rich artistic heritage tied to Salvador Dalí. The proximity of cities like Girona adds further cultural interest to the region.
What to discover on the Costa Brava?
The Costa Brava, literally 'wild coast', stretches along the Catalan Mediterranean from Cap de Creus to the outskirts of Blanes. Its rugged relief, shaped by the last foothills of the Pyrenees plunging into the sea, creates a landscape of hidden coves, cliffs and calas reachable on foot or by boat.
The region is inseparable from Salvador Dalí, born in Figueres, whose work was deeply inspired by the landscapes of Cadaqués and Portlligat. The Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres and his house in Portlligat draw many visitors. Beyond its artistic heritage, the Costa Brava charms with fishing villages like Calella de Palafrugell and Tossa de Mar, as well as the nearby medieval city of Girona, known for its remarkable heritage.
Cities to visit in Costa Brava
Featured destinations appear first.
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Costa Brava in pictures
Must-see highlights
Essential experiences to discover the Costa Brava.
Dalí Theatre-Museum
Visit this surrealist museum in Figueres, designed by the artist himself as his ultimate work.
Cap de Creus
Explore this natural park of dramatic rock formations, the easternmost point of the Iberian Peninsula.
Fishing villages
Wander picturesque towns like Calella de Palafrugell and Tossa de Mar.
Hidden coves
Reach preserved calas fringed with umbrella pines on foot or by boat.
Girona
Visit this nearby medieval city, known for its cathedral, ramparts and historic Jewish quarter.
Practical information
- Region
- Catalonia
- Main city
- Girona
- Languages
- Spanish, Catalan
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Time zone
- UTC+1
- Climate
- Mediterranean, hot dry summers
- Best season
- May to September
- Entry requirements
- ID card or passport (EU)
Frequently asked questions
Why is the Costa Brava linked to Salvador Dalí?
The artist was born in Figueres and lived in Portlligat near Cadaqués, places that deeply inspired his surrealist work.
When is the best time to visit the Costa Brava?
May to September to fully enjoy the coves and beaches, with more moderate crowds outside of July-August.
How do you get around the Costa Brava?
Renting a car is recommended for freely exploring coastal villages, which are often poorly served by public transport.
Is Girona part of the Costa Brava?
Girona is a city near the coast, often associated with the region as a cultural starting point for exploring the Costa Brava.
Which villages should not be missed?
Cadaqués, Calella de Palafrugell and Tossa de Mar are among the most picturesque coastal villages in the region.
Is the Costa Brava good for hiking?
Yes, the Camí de Ronda coastal path links many coves and villages on foot, offering remarkable panoramas.
Plan your trip to Costa Brava
Day-by-day itinerary, budget, bookings and packing in a single app.
