Costa Brava Day Tour with Boat Trip from Barcelona

Explore Costa Brava in a Day with Guided Tours and a Scenic Boat Ride

The Costa Brava Day Tour from Barcelona offers a convenient way to experience some of Catalonia’s most picturesque seaside towns in just one day. Priced at $67.94 per person, this 9-hour tour includes visits to Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar, two vibrant fishing villages renowned for their character and natural beauty. This trip features a boat cruise between the two towns, giving travelers a chance to enjoy the coast from the water, alongside guided explorations and free time for lunch and relaxation.

The tour departs from a centrally located meeting point in Barcelona, and uses an air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, making the journey comfortable and connected. With over 280 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the tour is praised for its professional guides, stunning scenery, and overall good value. While the trip is well-organized, travelers should note that food and drinks are not included, so planning for meals is advised.

Key Points

• Full-day experience lasting approximately 9 hours from Barcelona
• Visits to Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar, two of Costa Brava’s most charming villages
• Boat cruise from Lloret de Mar to Tossa de Mar, about one hour long
• Guided walking tour of Tossa de Mar’s Vila Vella (Old Town)
• Travel in air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, with pickup from Carrer de Nàpols, 68, Barcelona
• Cost: $67.94 per person, making it a good value for a full day of sightseeing

Starting Point and Transportation Details

This tour begins promptly at 8:30 am at the Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord. The coach provides comfortable seating with Wi-Fi, making the roughly 1 hour and 15 minutes drive to Costa Brava a relaxed start to the day. The group size is capped at 60 travelers, ensuring a friendly and manageable experience.

Visiting Lloret de Mar: The Coastal Hub with a Colorful Atmosphere

The first stop is the lively town of Lloret de Mar, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes after departure. Here, visitors have about one hour to explore its streets, beaches, and shops. Known for its beach promenade, Lloret de Mar offers scenic views of the beach and coastline. The town retains signs of its maritime past, with narrow streets lined with shops selling everything from latest brands to beach bazaars.

One of the notable architectural sights is the Saint Roma church, situated on the town’s most famous shopping street. Its vibrant atmosphere and seaside charm make Lloret de Mar a worthwhile stop, especially for those interested in a quick taste of local life and scenery before heading to the next destination.

Tossa de Mar: The “Pearl” of Costa Brava with a Medieval Twist

The second major stop is Tossa de Mar, arriving around 12:15 pm. Tossa de Mar is celebrated for its combination of stunning beaches, historical sites, and spectacular views from its lighthouse. Listed as an artistic-historic monument in 1931, the fortified Vila Vella (Old Town) is the highlight of the guided walk.

Tour participants walk along the beachfront, then follow the fortified perimeter up to the lighthouse, where panoramic vistas of the coastline unfold. Descending from the heights, visitors pass through the historic walls and streets of Tossa, gaining insight into its Roman origins and medieval fortifications.

This village is characterized by its medieval walls, narrow cobblestone streets, and seaside charm. Free time after the guided tour allows for lunch and relaxation on the beach, with plenty of local eateries offering Catalan cuisine. The guided walk in Tossa provides a thorough look at its history and architecture.

Boat Cruise Between Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar

The boat trip is a key feature of this tour, providing about an hour of scenic cruising along the coast. Departing from Lloret de Mar, the boat offers stunning views of the coastline, cliffs, and inlets. The boat staff are praised as great, and the ride is described as fun and relaxing.

Travelers often mention the warm, clean water and enjoy a swim during free time or while on board. The boat ride is highly regarded as a highlight of the day, offering an excellent perspective of Costa Brava’s rugged beauty from the water.

Guided Exploration of Tossa de Mar’s Historic Sites

In Tossa de Mar, the guided visit focuses on the Vila Vella, the ancient fortified town that has earned its place as a protected artistic-historic monument. The guide leads visitors through the medieval walls, narrow streets, and lighthouse, emphasizing the town’s Roman roots and medieval architecture.

The walk is complemented by stunning coastline views, perfect for photo opportunities. The tour’s guide provides helpful commentary, making the history and significance of Tossa de Mar accessible and engaging.

Free Time and Lunch Options in Tossa de Mar

After the guided tour, ample free time allows visitors to enjoy Tossa’s beach, explore additional shops, or sample local Catalan dishes. Since food and drinks are not included, it’s advisable to bring snacks or plan to visit local cafes or restaurants. The town’s vibrant atmosphere makes it easy to find a spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Return Journey to Barcelona: Relaxed and Organized

The journey back to Barcelona concludes the tour, with a relaxed bus ride that allows for reflection on the day’s highlights. The return trip is smooth, ensuring travelers arrive at the starting point around 5:30 pm. The organized schedule helps keep the day on track, with punctual pickups and drop-offs.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Costa Brava tour suits those looking for a full-day escape from the city, with a mix of coastal scenery, historic sights, and relaxed seaside towns. It’s ideal for history enthusiasts, beach lovers, and boat ride fans. The guided walks provide context and depth, while the free time invites personal discovery.

Travelers should be prepared for walking and some uneven terrain in Tossa de Mar, along with no included meals, so planning for lunch is recommended. The cost offers good value, especially considering the boat cruise and guided exploration.

The Sum Up: A Scenic Day Trip with Rich Highlights

The Costa Brava Day Tour from Barcelona delivers a well-organized, engaging experience of two iconic villages, Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar. The scenic boat ride adds a special touch, providing breathtaking views of the coast. With knowledgeable guides and ample free time, visitors can enjoy both guided insights and personal exploration.

While some may find the lunch arrangements to be self-organized, the overall value for money and beautiful scenery make this tour appealing to a wide range of travelers. It is especially suited for those who want a comprehensive, yet manageable**, day trip to Costa Brava’s most photogenic spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour features transport by air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, live commentary, a boat trip from Lloret de Mar to Tossa de Mar, and a guided walk in Tossa de Mar. Food and drinks are not included.

Where does the tour depart from?
The tour starts at Carrer de Nàpols, 68, Barcelona, from the Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord.

How long is the boat trip?
The boat cruise lasts about one hour, offering scenic views of the coast and opportunities for swimming.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is generally suitable for most travelers, though participants should be able to walk and handle some uneven terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits and towels for swimming, sun protection, and cash or cards for meals or souvenirs, since food is not included.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, with a full refund.