Tucked between the French border and Barcelona is the beautiful Costa Brava. This Spanish coastline with arresting scenery stretching in northern Catalonia has been a favorite among travellers since the 1960s. Some come to relish in the world from where the eccentric Salvador Dali originates, while others visit Costa Brava for the marvelous scenery.
Known as the Wild Coast, there are plenty of places to choose where to stay in Costa Brava. From charming fishing villages to stunning beaches, bays, and a rough rocky coastline, travellers mostly enjoy Costa Brava between May and October.
But before you get to pick the place to stay in Costa Brava, let’s settle one dilemma:
We know that different types of people require different advice on travel accommodations. In this guide include the best areas for
- the first time visitor
- Families
- Couples
- Luxury & Design
- Solo-Traveler
- on a budget
Are you more of a visual learner/travel planner?
Lucky for you, we’ve included a map with all of our favorite neighborhoods and handpicked hotels for all of your travel needs.
Check it out below to get a better idea of where you should stay for your first or next visit to the Costa Brava.
Read more: You can also check our comprehensive guide on 7 days in Seville.
(This guide is always up to date, the last updated April 2024.)
But, first things first:
Here is the question: Where to stay in Costa Brava for a first-time visit?
The answer is simple: Cadaqués!
Some of the major landmarks in Cadaqués include:
- Historic City Centre of Cadaqués – The center of cultural life, inspiring many famous international artists.
- Platja Gran – The main beach in town located under the famous walls of the Tossa de Mar castle.
- Cala de Portlligat – The most popular Cadaqués coves, greatly favored by Dali.
- Platja Salvador Dalí – A rocky, crystal-clear beach with stunning flora decorating the nearby shore.
Why do we recommend these areas?
Costa Brava is, without a doubt, one of Spain’s most beautiful and scenic areas. Salvador Dali created some of his best works here, and most remain in the Dali Theatre Museum.
If you are a nature lover, you’ll enjoy famous, iconic towns like Cadaqués scattered along the coastal line, creating a picture-perfect scene. But this place is also great for families since there are plenty of small but stunning beaches. Although they may be hard to reach, they are definitely worth the effort. Couples can stroll down the lovely sights, while art lovers are sure to enjoy the many Dali commemorations, from museums to monuments.
Here’s a full map for you to understand the different areas.
Please note: those might not be the exact names of the districts, neither its absolute borders. I just tried to simplify this information.
| 📍Best Area: | Lloret de Mar |
| 👨👩👧👦 Best for Families: | Golden Bahia de Tossa & Spa |
| 👩❤️👨 Best for Couples: | Hotel Playa Sol |
| 💎 Best Luxury Hotel | S’Agaro Luxury Villa |
| 🤩 Best Design Hotel: | DoubleTree by Hilton Girona |
| 😎 Best for Groups: | Luxury Villa Vista del Mar |
| 🦸 Best for Solo-Traveller: | Can Cocollona hostel |
| 💃 Best Hotel for Nightlife: | ALEGRIA Plaza Paris |
| 🤑 Cheapest Place to stay: | Fonda Can Setmanes |
| 👌 Safest Area: | Girona |
- Best areas and handpicked hotels for Costa Brava
- Families
- Couples
- Luxury Traveler
- Design Traveler
- Groups
- Solo-Traveler
- Nightlife-seeking traveler
- Budget Traveler
- Neighborhoods and its differences
- FAQs
- Map + All Sights
- Summary
1. Best areas and handpicked hotels for Costa Brava
With the above mentioned reasons, it’s no wonder why Costa Brava is a top tourist destination. You’ll find lots of accommodation options to fit any traveller’s style. So let’s see what to expect.
Continue scrolling or pick your group and travel type on the menu:
1.1 Families
1.2 Couples
1.3 Luxury Traveler
1.4 Design Traveler
1.5 Groups
1.6 Solo-Traveler
1.7 Nightlife-seeking traveler
1.8 Budget Traveler
1.1 Families
Did you know that Costa Brava is an ideal holiday destination for families? There are many beautiful vacation homes that offer endless activities for the whole family. Some are even placed near stunning family picnic spots, water, and theme parks your kids will love.
Make sure you check out these spots filled with family-friendly activities:
Lloret de Mar
- Plenty of family-friendly spots;
- Lloret Beach and Fenals Beach are must-visits!;
Tossa de Mar
- Breath-taking sandy beaches;
- Many areas that offer a peek into medieval history;
Handpicked accommodations for families
L’Azure Hotel 4* Sup, Lloret de Mar
L’Azure Hotel 4* Sup is a centrally located hotel in Costa Brava suitable for the whole family. Children can enjoy the splash park and play with the outdoor equipment or mingle with their peers in the indoor play area. In the meantime, you and your partner can spend some quiet time on the rooftop terrace enjoying a cocktail by the infinity pool.
Golden Bahia de Tossa & Spa, Tossa de Mar
Golden Bahia de Tossa & Spa was designed with families in mind, making it one of the best places to stay in Costa Brava. Located only 800 meters from the Tossa de Mar beach and a 10-minute drive from Lloret de Mar, this hotel has a kid’s club where your little ones can have a day full of fun.
1.2 Couples
Wondering where to stay in Costa Brava with your partner? Spain is all about romance, and Costa Brava puts a huge emphasis on that! That said, there are so many couple-centric places and activities that are unique only to the region. Walk the historic streets holding hands or enjoy the sunsets in your partner’s arms in:
Cadaqués
- Cap de Creus Natural Park is located here;
- Many museums and art galleries decorate the streets of this town;
Tossa de Mar
- The perfect place to enjoy a romantic getaway under the sun;
- Crystal blue waters that shimmer under the late night’s moon;
Handpicked accommodations for couples
Hotel Playa Sol, Cadaqués
Hotel Playa Sol is a modern-looking place to stay in Costa Brava dipped in a pastel colour palette, creating a cozy atmosphere. You can have a relaxing day with your partner under the shade of the olive trees during the daytime and go for a romantic midnight stroll under the moonlight in Cadaques.
Hotel Delfín, Tossa de Mar
Hotel Delfín is a stylish and chic holiday getaway for couples in Tossa de Mar. Take advantage of the rooftop swimming pool with a stunning view, or enjoy some private time in the modern and comfortable rooms. If you are an active couple, take the day to visit the nearby beaches.
1.3 Luxury traveler
Costa Brava has many privileged locations that allow luxury travellers easy access to everything. The area offers plenty of high-end hotels and exquisite dining experiences. We selected two areas that stand out as favourite spots for those looking for luxury:
S’Agaró
- Plenty of corners with prestigious architecture by Rafael Maso;
- Has several fine-dining restaurants with three Michelin stars;
Lloret de Mar
- Lively nightlife;
- Offers gastronomic experiences you will never forget;
Handpicked accommodations for the luxury traveler
Luxury Villa in S’Agaro, S’Agaro
The S’Agaro Luxury Villa is an excellent spot for those who appreciate refinement. The rustic decor and green gardens filled with palm trees give the property a luxurious look. Guests can spend a quiet day by the private pool, away from prying eyes, or swim at the nearby Cala Pedrosa and Sant Pol beaches.
Delamar 4*Sup-Adults only (18+), Lloret de Mar
The modern interiors and stylish rooms of Delamar 4*Sup-Adults only (18+) are reserved for adult luxury travellers only. Swim on one of Lloret de Mar’s famous beaches or relish an ultimate show-cooking experience at the hotel’s Els Americanos Restaurant.
1.4 Design-lovers
It’s no surprise that Spain is one of the trendiest countries in the world. For that reason, design travellers can easily navigate the narrow streets of charming towns and discover small independent boutiques that suit their style. And the two greatest spots filled with these shops? Obviously, that would be:
Girona
- A tranquil place with medieval architecture;
- Visit the museums, galleries, and Gothic churches for inspiration;
Cadaqués
- It’s one of the most symbolic places in Costa Brava;
- The Dali House Museum is nearby;
Handpicked accommodations for the design lover
DoubleTree by Hilton Girona, Girona
If you find yourself in Girona, definitely book DoubleTree by Hilton Girona. This modern hotel in Costa Brava boasts stylish and brightly decorated rooms and has a rooftop terrace with a breathtaking view. But what makes it perfect for design travellers is the masterful use of colour throughout the hotel, accentuating the positive and welcoming vibe.
Casa del Capitan, Canaques
Cadaques’ Casa del Capitan is located on an isolated cliff overlooking the horizon, making it great for aesthetic lovers who enjoy privacy. The blend of rustic and modern styles, infused with bold-coloured touches, adds charm to the villa, and the infinity pool gives it a tranquil atmosphere. For design travellers who need inspiration, this is the spot!
1.5 Groups
Where to stay in Costa Brava if you are travelling as a group? Don’t worry, we got you! Group vacation in Costa Brava equals excellent restaurants, fantastic beaches, and lively nightlife. Could you ask for a better travel destination with your buddies?
If you go to Costa Brava as a group, these two spots are where you should stay:
Lloret de Mar
- Lively nightlife, perfect for group outings;
- Many beaches with big shades where groups can have a fun day under the sun;
Calella
- Stunning natural beauty with plenty of places groups can adventure at;
- Wide restaurant terraces giving way to stunning views with tables for four or more
Handpicked accommodations for groups
Luxury Villa Vista del Mar, Lloret de Mar
Tucked in the hills near Lloret de Mar, Luxury Villa Vista del Mar is the best place to stay in Costa Brava as a group. Why? It has a garden with a pool and barbeque, which means you can flip some burgers while blasting tunes. Plus, it all comes with a view! In the evenings, you can also have a karaoke night without disturbing the neighbours.
Hotel Haromar, Calella
Prefer cozy hotels on the beach? Hotel Haromar near Calella is a perfect option! Join group activities like beach volleyball and aerobics during the day and party in one of the nearby nightclubs at night. The hotel is in a convenient location for groups travelling by train, as the train station is a walking distance away.
1.6 Solo-travelers
Solo travellers can get around Costa Brava easily using an offline map. Since the coastal area is filled with tourists, there is no need to worry about safety. Although we recommend every place in Costa Brava, solo travellers should explore these towns in detail:
Lloret de Mar
- Friendly locals willing to help all solo travellers;
- The city is intentionally structured toward “younger” travellers;
Girona
- Wonderful cobbled lanes for travellers to explore;
- Cool sights and places to visit;
Handpicked accommodations for a solo traveler
Can Cocollona, Girona
Once you get off the train in Girona, the Can Cocollona hostel is only a walking distance away. Many solo travellers call this place home when on their trip. Since you’re alone, this is also the perfect place to meet new people. You can mingle with the other guests in the shared room or join them for a continental or vegan breakfast.
1.7 Nightlife Traveler
If Latin music doesn’t get your hips moving, I don’t know what will! If love to dance the night away and want to explore the nightlife scene, Costa Brava offers endless exciting partying opportunities. For the best fun ever, we suggest you head to:
Lloret De Mar
- Golden beaches with bars;
- Vibrant nightlife;
Blanes
- Diverse entertainment options;
- Young crowds;
Handpicked accommodations for nightlife
ALEGRIA Plaza Paris, Lloret de Mar
Lloret de Mar is known for its lively nightlife, which is why ALEGRIA Plaza Paris is almost always booked. It is in a central location and well-connected, which is important if you wish to do some bar hopping. At the same time, you can stay in and enjoy the Mediterranean cuisine at the buffet restaurant or listen to live music at the café.
Petit Palau – Adults Only, Blanes
Ranked among the top 3 hotels in Blanes, Petit Palau – Adults Only is right in the center of the nightlife in the region, making it an ideal place to stay in Costa Brava. This stylish adults-only hotel offers not only a great location but also a modern spa where you can relax after a night of partying.
1.8 For the Budget Traveler
When deciding where to stay in Costa Brava, you’ll find many places for budget travellers, offering fine dining for a low price or a free tour around town. If you have a preset limit to your spending, then you’d love the place around:
Tossa de Mar
- Array of free and low-cost activites;
- Lush flora, with vast mountains and long sandy beaches;
Blanes
- Rocky coves that are great for exploring;
- Free beach access;
Handpicked accommodations for budget traveler
Fonda Can Setmanes, Blanes
Who said that you have to spend thousands to stay at a nice hotel? Fonda Can Setmanes in Blanes is a portrayal of simplicity and elegance. It’s close to all attractions and you don’t have to pay to move around town.
2. Best Neighborhood to Stay in Costa Brava
Now that you know where to stay in Costa Brava, let’s check out some of the most iconic places in the region, all of which are absolutely worth visiting during your stay!
Lloret de Mar
Lloret de Mar is an excellent destination for those looking for an active holiday. Solo and night-seeking travellers will love this area for its lively nightlife, numerous bars, clubs, and attractions.
On the other hand, families enjoy Playa de Lloret, the long golden sand beach with crystal-clear waters, where the whole family can have a blast. In the meantime, luxury travellers can have a fine dining experience with a glass of refreshing sangria.
Girona
Girona is a city loved by many but mostly preferred by families. For one, the Blue Flag beaches are perfect for families with children. In fact, many of the resorts in this area are awarded the Family Tourist Destination seal!
Other types of travellers can enjoy Girona’s lively markets, stunning panoramic views, historic gems, and famous museums. In a nutshell, this safe and lively town has a lot to offer within everyone’s budget – yes, it’s perfect even for budget travellers.
Tossa de Mar
Couples, families, and budget travellers greatly enjoy this historic fisherman’s village. Visiting Tossa de Mar and not dipping in the calm, clear waters underneath the centuries-old castle is unimaginable. Or maybe you’d prefer the Tossa Lighthouse, which offers a spectacular view of the coast.
Even if it gets crowded during the annual Festa Major D’Estiu at the end of July, Tossa de Mar is where visitors can feel safe any time, day or night.
Blanes
This charming town offers a blend of the mountainous natural landscape and the Mediterranean Sea, suitable for almost any traveller. Those coming with a budget will love the Cami de Ronda, since they can walk along the 217 km footpath near the coast, with leisurely footpaths and hill-walking areas – all without paying a cent. And if you are not into hiking, visit the Marimurtra Botanical Garden for a very low price.
3. FAQs
What is the best neighborhood to stay in Costa Brava?
The article suggests that Cadaqués is an ideal choice for a first-time visit to Costa Brava. It highlights major landmarks, such as the Historic City Centre, Platja Gran, Cala de Portlligat, and Platja Salvador Dalí, making it a charming and culturally rich destination.
Where should you not stay in Costa Brava?
The article doesn't explicitly mention areas to avoid, but it provides recommendations based on different traveler types and preferences. To make an informed decision on where not to stay, it's advisable to consider personal preferences, such as proximity to attractions, budget constraints, and preferred activities.
What should I avoid in Costa Brava?
While the article doesn't list specific things to avoid, travelers are encouraged to plan according to their preferences and priorities. It's advisable to research individual preferences, such as avoiding crowded areas during peak tourist seasons or steering clear of certain activities that may not align with personal interests.
Where should I stay in Costa Brava for the first time?
The article strongly recommends Cadaqués as the ideal choice for first-time visitors to Costa Brava. It highlights the town's cultural significance, scenic beaches, and the influence of renowned artist Salvador Dalí. The provided landmarks and attractions make Cadaqués an appealing option for those looking to experience the beauty and culture of the region for the first time.
4. Map + All Sights
Costa Brava is a beautiful coastal region in Catalonia, Spain, that offers a variety of attractions and activities for travelers. To help you plan your trip, we have created a map that shows the best areas to stay in Costa Brava, based on your preferences and budget.
Whether you want to stay in a luxury hotel, a cozy apartment, or a budget hostel, you will find the perfect place to stay in Costa Brava with our map. Enjoy your stay in this amazing region and discover its beauty, culture, and nature.
5. Summary of where to stay in Costa Brava
No matter what type of traveller you are, Costa Brava is a destination everyone enjoys. So use this guide on where to stay in Costa Brava and find the right accommodation for your next trip!
If you have any questions regarding this fabulous destination, feel free to contact me!
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Any Questions?
There you have it. I hope you have no questions and found your home in my home town.
However, please remember: I am not perfect, and it is likely I missed a few things to point out.
Therefore: Do you have questions? Is anything not clear?
Please please please drop me a comment below with your email! I will reply to you ASAP via email and here in the comments.
In fact, your questions help me to make this article better. So I help you to help me.
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