- Travel Enthusiast
- Sep 10
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 11
TOSSA DE MAR: YOUR ULTIMATE ITINERARY
Tossa de Mar is one of Costa Brava’s most charming towns, with golden beaches, a medieval walled Old Town, and coastal trails leading to hidden coves. Just a short trip from Barcelona, it’s an easy destination to explore in a day or enjoy at a slower pace over a longer stay.
This guide covers the highlights, itinerary, where to stay, and tips to help you make the most of Tossa de Mar.
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TOSSA DE MAR HIGHLIGHTS
If you’re looking for the best of Tossa de Mar, these are the spots you shouldn’t miss:
Vila Vella – The fortified Old Town with cobbled alleys, defensive walls, medieval towers, and a lighthouse at the top, offering some of the best views on the Costa Brava.
Platja Gran – The main beach, right at the foot of the old walls, with calm waters and a dramatic backdrop.
Platja d’es Codolar – A small sandy cove tucked behind the fortress, quieter and more intimate than Platja Gran.
Camí de Ronda – A scenic coastal trail leading to hidden coves such as Cala Bona, Cala Pola, and Cala Giverola.
GETTING TO AND AROUND TOSSA DE MAR
Getting around Tossa de Mar:
Tossa is compact and easy to explore on foot. The Old Town, beaches, and promenade are all within walking distance. For nearby coves or stretches of the Camí de Ronda, walking or hiking is the best way to go.
Taxis are available for longer distances, and in summer, boats connect Tossa with neighboring towns along the Costa Brava such as Blanes, Lloret de Mar, Fenals, and Canyelles.
Getting to Tossa de Mar:
By car – The most flexible option. From Barcelona, the drive takes about 1 hour 20 minutes, and from Girona, around 45–50 minutes. Parking can be limited in summer, but there are several paid lots on the edge of town.
By bus – The simplest choice if you don’t want to drive. Direct Sarfa/Moventis buses connect Barcelona Nord station with Tossa (around 1 hour 30–40 minutes). From Girona, buses take just under an hour.
By guided tour – A convenient option if you don’t want to handle logistics. This day trip from Barcelona covers transport, a guided walk through Vila Vella and the lighthouse, plus free time to enjoy Tossa’s beaches.
TOSSA DE MAR ITINERARY
Many travelers only give Tossa de Mar a quick visit from Barcelona, and one day is enough to see a lot. But if you have more time, staying longer lets you slow down and discover some of its hidden gems.
DAY 1
Morning: Head to Platja Gran, right in the heart of Tossa, for a swim with the old fortress as a backdrop. For a quieter spot, walk just behind the walls to Platja d’es Codolar, a small sandy cove tucked between cliffs. If you’re up for exploring, follow the Camí de Ronda coastal path:
Cala Bona is about a 35-minute walk south along the trail.
Cala Llevadó is further, around a 1-hour walk, but worth it for its turquoise waters and peaceful setting.
Lunch: If you’re planning to go further along the coastal path, it’s a good idea to pack lunch and enjoy a picnic by the coves. If you’re staying closer to Platja Gran, head into town and try La Roca de Tossa, a well-loved spot near the old walls serving traditional Catalan dishes, fresh seafood, and hearty paellas in a relaxed setting.
Afternoon: Explore Vila Vella, Tossa’s fortified Old Town – wander the cobbled alleys, climb up to the defensive walls, and admire the medieval towers that still guard the town. The views over the bay from here are some of the best on the Costa Brava.
At the very top, you’ll find the lighthouse museum (small entry fee), which adds a cultural touch to the stunning panorama.
Evening: Return to the seafront for a walk at sunset and then have dinner at Restaurant Minerva, located on the promenade and known for its seafood and Mediterranean menu with views over Platja Gran.
DAY 2
If you have another day in Tossa, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the coastline and the sea:
Guided Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour – Paddle along the rugged coastline, explore sea caves, and snorkel in crystal-clear waters.
PADI Discovery Scuba Diving – Try scuba diving with professional instructors. After learning the basics, head underwater to spot marine life such as seahorses, octopus, and cuttlefish.
Hike the Camí de Ronda – Follow the coastal trail north to hidden coves like Cala Pola (30 minutes) or Cala Giverola (1 hour), both quieter than the town beaches and perfect for a swim.
Visit the Municipal Museum – Located inside Vila Vella, the museum features archaeological finds and paintings by artists such as Marc Chagall, who once lived in Tossa.
WHERE TO STAY IN TOSSA DE MAR
Staying overnight? Here are some great places to stay in Tossa de Mar:
Hotel Marblau Tossa – A relaxed hotel with bright rooms and balconies, set close to both the beach and the Old Town.
Hotel Capri – A family-run beachfront hotel on the promenade, with cozy rooms just steps from Platja Gran.
Hotel Windsor Tossa – Modern and comfortable, featuring a pool and garden terrace within easy reach of the main sights.
Hotel Diana – A historic beachfront hotel with Gaudí-inspired details, offering charm and comfort right on Platja Gran.
Hotel Delfín – Stylish and centrally located, with spacious rooms and a rooftop terrace overlooking the town.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ)
Is Tossa de Mar worth visiting?
Yes – Tossa de Mar is often considered one of the most charming towns on the Costa Brava. Its combination of sandy beaches, a preserved medieval Old Town, and a relaxed atmosphere makes it a standout destination. Unlike some busier resorts, it balances natural beauty with history.
Why is Tossa de Mar famous?
Tossa de Mar is best known for Vila Vella, its walled medieval Old Town, the only surviving fortified town on the Costa Brava. It’s also famous for its beaches, clear waters, and artistic heritage – Marc Chagall lived here in the 1930s and called it the “Blue Paradise”.
Which is nicer, Tossa de Mar or Lloret de Mar?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Tossa de Mar is quieter, more historic, and has a family-friendly feel with cobbled streets and cultural sights, while Lloret de Mar is larger and livelier, with more nightlife, shopping, and entertainment options. For relaxation and charm, Tossa usually wins, but for nightlife and activities, Lloret is the choice.
Is Tossa de Mar a party town?
No – Tossa de Mar is not known for wild nightlife. While there are bars and restaurants where you can enjoy an evening out, the atmosphere is laid-back compared to nearby Lloret de Mar. Most visitors come for the beaches, history, and relaxed pace.
BEYOND TOSSA DE MAR
Got extra time? Here are a few amazing places just outside Tossa that are worth checking out.
Lloret de Mar – Just 20 minutes south, with long sandy beaches, lively nightlife, and a palm-lined promenade that makes it one of the Costa Brava’s busiest resorts.
Sant Feliu de Guíxols – A charming coastal town with a Benedictine monastery, a lively marina, and family-friendly beaches backed by a pleasant promenade.
Begur – A hilltop town with a castle, winding streets, and views that stretch across the Costa Brava. It’s surrounded by some of the most beautiful coves in the region, where you can swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the scenery. Want to know more? Take a look at our Begur guide.
Costa Brava – Tossa is just one highlight on this famous stretch of coastline. The Costa Brava is home to rugged cliffs, hidden coves, and postcard-worthy towns like Cadaqués and Calella de Palafrugell. Want to know more? Take a look at our Costa Brava guide.
Girona – A medieval city with cobbled streets, a grand cathedral, and colorful houses along the Onyar River. Fans of Game of Thrones will recognize filming locations here, but even without them, Girona’s Old Town is one of the most atmospheric in Spain. Want to plan a visit? Take a look at our Girona itinerary.
Barcelona – Less than 1.5 hours away, this is one of Spain’s most dynamic cities. No matter how many times you visit, there’s always something new to discover. Want to make the most of your trip? Take a look at our Barcelona guide.
