Tossa de Mar is a stunning medieval coastal town with just under 6,000 inhabitants. If you’re in Barcelona, it’s a fantastic day trip option. Moreover, it’s an excellent holiday destination in its own right, with plenty to do, making it worth staying for a few nights.
The town offers three blue flag beaches, a castle, numerous shops, bars, and charming side streets to explore.
If you’re a K-Pop fan, you might recognise this town from YooA’s music video ‘Melody’ or the Korean TV series ‘The Legend of the Blue Sea.’
Where is Tossa de Mar
Tossa de Mar is located to the north of Barcelona, in the coastal Costa Brava region of Catalonia. It is situated 86 km from Barcelona and 38 km from Girona.
How To Get To Tossa de Mar From Barcelona
The best way to get to Tossa de Mar from Barcelona is by taking the Moventis bus from Barcelona Noord bus station to Estación de autobuses Tossa de Mar. The bus station is conveniently located just a short walk from Tossa de Mar’s old town
The bus journey takes approximately 90 minutes, and prices start from €23 for a return or €15 one-way. You can book this bus on Omio.com.
What To Do In Tossa de Mar
1. Cami de Ronda Coastal Path
The best way to explore all that Tossa de Mar has to offer is on foot, using the ‘Camí de Ronda’ coastal path. This trail is well-signposted and provides breathtaking views of the town and the Mediterranean Sea.
There are several hiking options, but I recommend the Cami de Ronda between Tossa de Mar and Cala Pola, which is a 6km round trip. It’s an excellent choice for those with limited time in Tossa de Mar.
The hike commences at the castle beside Playa Grande beach and follows a cliff-edge path overlooking the ocean. Along the way, there are a few viewpoints where you can take a break and take in the scenery.
I recommend wearing proper hiking shoes rather than sandals, as some parts of the trail have uneven terrain with loose steps.
2. Walk The Castle Walls
A defensive wall once protected the old town of Tossa de Mar. Certain sections of the wall are accessible from the old town and offer incredible panoramic views of the town.
Make sure to take a picture of the ‘Forat del Dimoni‘ (devil’s hole), a small gap in the city wall that overlooks the ocean and is exceptionally picturesque.
3. Glass Bottom Boat Trip
Take a glass bottom boat trip between Tossa de Mar and Cala Giverola visiting 3 caves and 3 coves.
You can either stay on the boat or spend some time on one of the beaches and catch the next boat back. Boats depart every hour during the low season and every 30 minutes from June to September.
You can book this boat tour on the boat operators website.
4. Cap de Tossa Lighthouse
The lighthouse is visible from various points in the town and beaches, it is situated on the edge of the town beside the sea. It is also the highest point of Tossa de Mar.
5. Relax On The Beaches
There are three blue flag beaches in Tossa de Mar, all are in walking distance of one another.
Playa Grande – This is the main beach of Tossa de Mar located in the heart of the town.
Mar Menuda – 280m long and is the best beach for people with mobility issues. It is also the best option for snorkeling and diving.
Es Codolar – Small cove at 30m long and is located behind the castle walls.
Where To Stay In Tossa de Mar
Can Tort is a highly reviewed hotel in the picturesque old-town. Rooms are comfortable and bright, hotel serves a continental, Italian or vegetarian breakfast. Prices start at €55 per night.
Hotel Windsor is located just 150m from the beach, facilities include a large outdoor pool but guests can also use the facilities of nearby Hotel Marina Tossa, including 2 pools and a tennis court. Rooms are bright and spacious with air conditioning and mini bar, some rooms have a terrace. Prices start at €83 per night.
Hotel Diana is a 4 star boutique hotel with incredible sea views. Rooms are elegant with a large ensuite bathroom, safe and flat screen TV. Prices start at €148 per night.