Between ramparts bathed in light and turquoise waters, Tossa de Mar unfolds all the charm of the Costa Brava. Here, one effortlessly transitions from the medieval Vila Vella to the Platja Gran and the secret coves, before setting off on the Camí de Ronda for breath-taking panoramas. Between a pause at the municipal museum and a tasty cim i tomba, the getaway easily extends to the surroundings, from Lloret de Mar and Sant Feliu de Guíxols to Girona and Barcelona. Ready to collect marine, medieval, and gourmet gems in one trip?
Amidst golden beaches, medieval alleys, and turquoise cliffs, Tossa de Mar condenses everything we love about the Costa Brava. This getaway takes you from the ramparts of the Vila Vella to secret coves like Cala Pola, passing by the Camí de Ronda, a museum full of treasures, tables to taste the famous cim i tomba, and outings to Lloret de Mar, Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Girona, the villages of Peratallada and Pals, not forgetting Barcelona. Add practical tips, ideas for accommodations (even with a water park) and routes to get there without stress… you have the ideal plan for a stay that smells of the Mediterranean.
The Vila Vella and its Ramparts over the Mediterranean
The historic heart of Tossa de Mar, the Vila Vella, is like a medieval movie set facing the sea. One winds through cobblestoned alleys, stone houses entwined with bougainvillea, and ramparts crowned with towers that watch over the horizon. At dusk, lively terraces and lanterns make the walls shine with a golden light. Local tip: in the height of summer, aim for early morning or late afternoon to enjoy the calm and cooler air.
Platja Gran, Cala Pola, and Cala Bona: The Postcard and Secrets
With a perfect overview, Platja Gran stretches its golden sand beneath the castle. But the most beautiful surprises are hidden nearby: Cala Pola and Cala Bona, intimate little coves accessible by path or by boat, where the water is so clear that a simple mask and snorkel become a passport for wonder. Little pro tip: bring water shoes, as the rocks are part of the charm (and the topography).
The Camí de Ronda, Cinematic Panoramas
Following the Camí de Ronda between Tossa and Cala Llevadó is like unfolding an adventure movie in high definition: cliffs, umbrella pines, jade coves, and that deep blue of the Costa Brava. The walk is accessible but in full sun, shade is earned: bring water, a hat, good shoes, and a camera with a full battery. Every turn is a new balcony overlooking the sea.
The Municipal Museum: Art, Mosaics, and Refreshing Coolness
Tucked away in the Vila Vella, the municipal museum surprises with the richness of its collections: artworks by artists enchanted by Tossa’s light (yes, even Chagall), and Roman pages of local history with stunning mosaics. Human-sized, peaceful atmosphere, delightfully cool rooms: the perfect stop to enrich the visit and recharge batteries in the heart of the old town.
Eat Up! The Cim i Tomba and Flavors of the Sea
It’s impossible to leave without trying the cim i tomba, this fisherman’s dish where fish and potatoes simmer gently, served in taverns scented with kelp. Fish and seafood, simply grilled in olive oil, pair wonderfully with a light Catalan white wine. To avoid overly touristy spots, move a little away from the ramparts: gems are often hidden just two streets away.
Where to Sleep: Guesthouses, Hotels, and Campsites with Water Park
In Tossa de Mar, accommodations range from charming family guesthouses to cozier hotels, passing through campsites nestled in a natural setting. Several offer the best of camping in Spain with a water park to combine relaxation, swimming, and sliding, a winning combo for vacations in Catalonia that everyone will enjoy.
Head to Lloret de Mar: Between Fiesta and Suspended Gardens
Just 20 minutes away, Lloret de Mar plays on two fronts: large beaches and nightlife for party-goers, but also classic beauty with the Santa Clotilde Gardens, hanging over the sea. To savor the best face of Lloret, aim for the low season or morning hours: the landscapes then reveal themselves in royal tranquility.
Sant Feliu de Guíxols: Monastery and Soft Living
About thirty kilometers away, Sant Feliu de Guíxols enchants with its imposing Benedictine monastery and peaceful alleys. Take a tour of the market to bite into the gourmet Catalonia: cold cuts, cheeses, oils, and sun-drenched fruits. An ideal stop for a cultural and zen excursion, far from overcrowded beaches.
Girona, the Medieval Gem an Hour’s Drive Away
Girona is a journey through time: Roman walls, spectacular cathedral, and the maze of the Call, one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe. Cafés, creative restaurants, and shady squares punctuate the visit. Easily explored in a day from Tossa, it’s the perfect stop to combine heritage and art of living.
Villages of the Hinterland: Peratallada and Pals
Leave the coast for a moment to discover the golden-stoned villages of Peratallada and Pals: cobblestoned alleys, medieval arches, flower-filled balconies… The authentic Catalonia reveals itself here, at the tranquil pace of a lunch in a tavern and a stroll at sunset. Camera mandatory, with a near-guarantee of a crush.
Barcelona, the Must-See 1.5 Hours Away
Just 1.5 hours by car, Barcelona boasts masterpieces: Sagrada Família, Casa Batlló, and other whims of Gaudí, as well as neighborhoods with unique atmospheres, gourmet markets, and tapas terraces. To manage the summer crowd, book in advance and target mornings and evenings. Every visit holds a surprise… that’s the magic of the Catalan capital.
Smart Tips for a Successful Getaway
– Avoid the peak summer season for the most popular sites, or aim for early/evening time slots.
– Pack: water, hat, sunscreen, walking shoes for the Camí de Ronda, and water shoes for the coves.
– For snorkeling, a mask and snorkel are enough, the water is often clear around Cala Pola and Cala Bona.
– For ready-to-go vacation ideas, get inspired by the all-inclusive getaways in July 2025.
How to Get There and Itinerary Ideas
In slow travel mode, let yourself be tempted by the train and these ideas for traveling by train on the most spectacular European routes before heading to the Costa Brava. Freedom lovers may prefer a road trip on the Costa Brava to hop from cove to overlook. Looking for inspired ready-made circuit ideas? Check out this getaway to nourish your roadmap. And to dream even more, discover why Tossa is a true gem of the Catalan coast.
