Barcelona: Tossa de Mar & Costa Brava very small group

Discover the Charm of Tossa de Mar and Costa Brava in a Small Group

This small group day trip from Barcelona offers an intimate way to explore the scenic Costa Brava and the historic town of Tossa de Mar. With only 7 participants, the tour provides a personalized experience filled with stunning coastal views, a guided walk through medieval walls, and exciting boat cave explorations. The tour is priced at $106 per person and lasts about 10.5 hours, making it an excellent choice for travelers seeking a balanced mix of sightseeing, outdoor activity, and free time.

The tour has received a warm reception, reflected in a 4.8-star rating from 78 reviews, with many praising the professional guides, well-planned itinerary, and the early access to Tossa de Mar. This is a great option for those who enjoy hiking, scenic boat rides, and exploring charming towns, though it’s important to note that the trip involves moderate physical activity and is not suitable for children under 10 or individuals with mobility challenges.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Limited to only 7 participants, ensuring a personalized experience
• Includes a scenic coastal hike with wonderful seaside views
• Sailing in a small boat that explores three caves, with options for kayaking
• Early visit to Tossa de Mar before the crowds, including a guided tour and free time
• Duration of 10.5 hours, with pickup from multiple central Barcelona locations
• Includes all activities and equipment, such as goggles, sunshades, and towels

From the Early Morning Pickup to the Coastal Hike

This tour begins with a pickup in Barcelona between 6:10h and 6:30h, giving you a head start on the day. The van ride to Costa Brava takes approximately 1.5 hours, during which the guide provides insights into the area’s history and highlights. Arriving early at Tossa de Mar—around 7:30h—means you experience the town before the majority of travelers arrive, a clear advantage noted in several reviews.

Once in Tossa de Mar, the guide leads you through a 2.5 km walk along a coastal path that offers spectacular sea views from different vantage points. The walk involves 90 meters of elevation gain, so comfortable shoes are recommended. This stretch highlights the area’s natural beauty and allows for great photo opportunities.

Exploring Tossa de Mar’s Medieval Walls and Old Town

After the coastal walk, you enter the historic old town of Tossa de Mar, surrounded by medieval walls built for defense centuries ago. This part of the tour offers a chance to walk inside the ancient walls, admiring the medieval architecture and narrow streets. The guide takes you through the main points of interest, sharing stories that add context to the town’s history, all while avoiding the crowds that arrive later in the day.

This visit provides a perfect blend of cultural insight and scenic beauty, making it a highlight for history buffs and photography fans alike. The early timing ensures a peaceful atmosphere, which is frequently praised in reviews.

The Small Boat Ride and Cave Explorations at Cala Giverola

At 10:30h, the group boards a small boat designed for up to 30 people, which heads north along the coastline. The boat ride takes about 40 minutes to Cala Giverola, during which you can enjoy views of the rugged coast and enter inside three caves—a truly memorable experience.

The boat tour is complemented by the opportunity to rent a kayak for €17, offering extra fun if you want to paddle around the beaches or explore more secluded spots. The boat’s glass bottom allows for a peek into the underwater world, and the guide often provides diving goggles, sunshades, and towels, which are lent out to guests.

You’re free to stay at Cala Giverola as long as you like, with boat departures every 30 minutes back to Tossa de Mar. This flexible schedule means you can relax, swim, or explore at your own pace before the tour’s conclusion.

More Great Tours Nearby

Enjoying Free Time at Giverola Beach and Beyond

After the boat ride, the tour provides around 3 hours of free time at Cala Giverola or nearby beaches. This period allows for swimming, sunbathing, kayaking, or simply unwinding in a beautiful seaside setting. Many reviews highlight how this free time enhances the overall experience, giving participants the chance to appreciate the stunning coastal scenery and enjoy a leisurely lunch or refreshments.

While food and drinks are not included in the price, the area offers local options, and the guide often shares tips for good eateries. The flexibility of free time is a distinguishing feature, giving you control over how you spend your afternoon.

Returning to Barcelona with a 75-Minute Van Ride

At 15:00h, the group reconvenes for the return trip to Barcelona, which takes about 75 minutes. Drop-offs are available at multiple locations, including Sants-Montjuïc, Eixample, Sant Martí, Ciutat Vella, and others, ensuring convenience for all travelers.

The early start and well-paced schedule mean you’ll arrive back in Barcelona around 16:30h, leaving plenty of time to relax or continue exploring the city. The smooth logistics and comfortable transportation are often praised, with guides and drivers ensuring everyone feels well cared for.

The Expertise and Attentiveness of Guides

Throughout the tour, professional guides lead the group, offering insightful commentary in Spanish and English. Reviews frequently mention Albert and similar guides for their friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive approach. They go above and beyond by bringing water, towels, umbrellas, and even picking up litter, showing genuine care for the environment and guests.

Guests appreciate how guides explain the history and geology of the coastal areas, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. The personalized attention is a major reason for the high ratings and positive feedback.

Practical Details and Physical Requirements

This tour involves moderate physical activity, including a 1.55-mile coastal walk with some elevation gain. It is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, people with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or individuals under 135 cm tall.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for outdoor conditions, including sun exposure. The tour provides diving goggles, towels, and sunshades for free rental, but bringing additional sun protection or personal gear is advisable.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience suits travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures, scenic views, and early access to attractions. The small group format and attentive guides make it ideal for those seeking a more personal, relaxed exploration of Costa Brava. It is particularly popular among adventure lovers and photography enthusiasts aiming to capture the best light and fewer crowds.

However, it’s important to note that the physical demands make it unsuitable for very young children or those with mobility issues. The tour’s pace, including hiking and boat transfers, suits active travelers who appreciate a well-organized day with a balance of guided touring and free time.

Final Thoughts on the Tossa de Mar & Costa Brava Small Group Tour

This $106 day trip from Barcelona offers a worthwhile combination of scenic hiking, historic exploration, and coastal boat adventures. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the early start lets you experience Tossa de Mar before the crowds. The itinerary’s focus on natural beauty, charming town visits, and fun water activities makes it stand out among similar excursions.

While not suitable for everyone—especially those with mobility issues or young children—the tour excels in delivering a well-paced, memorable day for active travelers. The professional guides and flexible free time contribute to its high ratings and strong reviews.

If you value intimate tours, scenic coastlines, and a mix of cultural and outdoor activities, this trip from Barcelona is a compelling choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour price?
Yes, the round trip by van from Barcelona is included, with pickups at several central locations.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves moderate walking along a coastal path with a 90-meter elevation gain, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor activity.

Can I rent equipment like kayaks or snorkeling gear?
Kayaks are available for €17 for one hour, and the guide provides diving goggles, towels, and sunshades at no extra charge.

Is this tour suitable for children or mobility-impaired individuals?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 10, pregnant women, or people with mobility challenges, due to the hiking involved.

What makes this tour stand out from similar options?
The small group size, early access to Tossa de Mar, and personalized guide service make this experience more intimate and flexible compared to larger tours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby