Tossa de Mar is one of the most beautiful towns on Spain’s Costa Brava, with a rare combination of medieval walls, sandy beaches, rocky coves, seafood restaurants, and easy access to from Barcelona. If you only have one day in town, you still can do a lot, like walk through Vila Vella, climb to the lighthouse, swim at Platja Gran or Es Codolar, and enjoy a goo lunch by the water. In this guide I’ll cover the best things to do in Tossa de Mar, which beaches are worth your time and wether Tossa de Mar is worth visiting as a day trip or overnight stop.
Is Tossa de Mar worth visiting?
Yes, Tossa de Mar is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you want a Costa Brava town that combines beaches, medieval history, sea views, and good restaurants in one compact place. Unlike some resort towns on this stretch of coast, Tossa still has a strong sense of character thanks to its walled Old Town, Vila Vella, and its beautiful setting between the mountains and the Mediterranean.
Surrounded by green mountains, lush vegetation, gorges and beautiful coves, Tossa de Mar enjoys one of the most spectacular locations on the Costa Brava. This beautiful region with rocky coves, serene beaches, and tranquil villages deserves a top spot on any Europe bucket list. Because of its proximity to the capital, Tossa De Mar makes an easy day trip from Barcelona.
Table of Contents
- A Brief History of Tossa de Mar
- Things to Do in Tossa de Mar, Costa Brava
- 1. Hike the Cala Llevadors Path
- 2. Stroll Around the Old Town
- 3. Visit Sant Vicenç Church Ruins
- 4. Don’t Miss the Tossa de Mar Lighthouse
- 5. Explore Sa Roqueta, the Old Fishermen’s Quarter
- 6. Relax on the Beach
- 7. Stop by the Chapel of Our Lady of Socorro
- 8. Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast
- 9. Sample the Local Seafood
- 10. Go Snorkeling in the Coves
- 11. Visit Ava Gardner’s Statue
- One Day in Tossa de Mar Itinerary
- How to Get From Barcelona to Tossa de Mar
- Best Time to Visit Tossa de Mar
- Frequently Asked Questions
A Brief History of Tossa de Mar
Tossa de Mar may be small, but it has a very interesting history. Although there is evidence of settlements in this area since the Neolithic period, the first mention of Tossa appeared only centuries later.
During the 12th century a small town called Vila Vella began developing around the Tossa Castle. When the town’s population started to grow, they began building battlements and towers to protect themselves from pirates and other invaders.
During the 15th and 16th centuries the town’s population increased even more and began extending outside the fortified village. At the time the inhabitants were mainly fishermen and farmers.
Over the years, as local industries started to expand, the town’s population began moving out looking for work in other parts of Catalonia. In the 19th and 20th centuries, as the villagers were moving out, artists and intellectuals began moving in, inspired by the charm of Tossa de Mar.
The town remained largely unchanged until the 1950s, when the movie Pandora and the Flying Dutchman starring made it famous.
Things to Do in Tossa de Mar, Costa Brava
1. Hike the Cala Llevadors Path
There are many beautiful places in Costa Brava, so we discovered the beautiful path of Cala Llevadors totally by accident. We were coming to Tessa De Mar by car from Barcelona and decided to stop before reaching the town to take a break. After parking the car, we hiked up the hill on a dirt road, in order to get a better view of the coast.
The trail is absolutely spectacular, following the shore line all the way to Castillo de Tossa (the old fortress).
The path runs close to the cliffs offering some fantastic panoramic views of the deep blue sea from the sheer drops. The hike goes over the rugged hills, so there are constant climbs and descents which are at times difficult, but it pays off to do it.
The path starts at the cove of Llevador and passes by the the Island of Sa Muladera, the coves of Moltó, En Jeroni, Point of Cards and it finally ends at the beach of Codolar.
2. Stroll Around the Old Town
The main center of tourist activity in Tossa de Mar is down by the seafront, where the medieval walls of Vila Vella rise above the beach. But what makes this place so special is that the Old Town is not just next to the castle walls, it is actually inside them. So when you wander through the narrow cobblestone streets of Vila Vella, you are walking within the remains of the old fortified town.
You can enter Vila Vella right from the beach and slowly make your way uphill through its maze of stone lanes, stairways, and arched passages. Along the way, you’ll pass small houses decorated with hanging geranium baskets, quiet corners where locals sit in the shade, and little viewpoints that open suddenly toward the sea.
Tossa is very proud of its fortified walls, and for good reason. They wrap around the old village and create one of the most picturesque scenes on the Costa Brava. Some parts of the walls are beautifully preserved, while others are in ruins, with gaps that reveal glimpses of the rocky coastline and tiny secluded beaches below.
Take your time here, because Vila Vella is the kind of place that rewards slow wandering. Stop for a coffee, browse the little shops, or sit down for seafood at one of the restaurants tucked inside the old walls. Whether you visit in the morning, when the streets are quiet, or later in the day when the stone glows in the afternoon light, this is one of the most atmospheric parts of Tossa de Mar.
3. Visit Sant Vicenç Church Ruins
As you walk through Vila Vella, make sure to stop at the ruins of the old Church of Sant Vicenç. Perched near the top of the walled town, this former Gothic church is one of the most atmospheric spots in Tossa de Mar, with weathered stone walls, open arches, and beautiful views over the sea.
The church was built in the 15th century, when the old town was still the heart of Tossa de Mar. Although only parts of the structure remain today, it’s easy to imagine how impressive it must have looked inside the fortified village. The roof is gone, which makes the ruins feel especially dramatic against the blue sky and Mediterranean backdrop.
This is also a great place to pause during your walk up to the lighthouse. The ruins don’t take long to visit, but they add another layer of history to Vila Vella and make a beautiful photo stop, especially in the softer light of early morning or late afternoon.
4. Don’t Miss the Tossa de Mar Lighthouse
At the highest point of the wall in the Old Town you’ll find the Far de Tossa or the Tossa de Mar lighthouse. The Far de Tossa was built in 1917 and still stands at the top of Tossa’s Cape.
The building also houses a small museum featuring information about the lighthouse and its history.
5. Explore Sa Roqueta, the Old Fishermen’s Quarter
After visiting Vila Vella, take a little time to wander through Sa Roqueta, the old fishermen’s quarter of Tossa de Mar. This is a small neighborhood that was developed outside the medieval walls when the town began expanding beyond its fortified center. It sits close to Es Codolar beach, so you can’t miss it.
Sa Roqueta is much quieter than the main beachfront area, but that’s part of its charm. Its narrow lanes, simple houses, and flower-filled corners still preserve some of the atmosphere of old Tossa, back when fishing was one of the town’s main ways of life.
This is not a place where you need a map or a strict itinerary. Just walk slowly, look for pretty doorways and tucked-away corners, and imagine what Tossa de Mar must have looked like before it became one of the most popular towns on the Costa Brava.
6. Relax on the Beach
Tossa de Mar encompasses 14 kilometers (8 miles) of the Costa Brava beaches. The beaches in Tossa de Mar are among the most beautiful in the world: clean, with clear waters and fine golden sand. Also, if you have time for diving or snorkeling, the clear water and fantastic sea floor are a paradise for fish.
Best beaches in Tossa de Mar
| Beach | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Platja Gran | First-time visitors, views of Vila Vella | Main town beach, easiest to access, iconic castle-wall backdrop |
| Platja d’Es Codolar | Quieter swim, scenic setting | Small cove below the old walls, reached by stairs |
| Mar Menuda | Snorkeling, restaurants | Smaller town beach with clear water and nearby dining |
| Cala Pola | Pretty cove, beach day | Outside town, popular in summer |
| Cala Bona | Snorkeling, coastal walk stop | Small rocky cove along the Camí de Ronda |
| Cala Giverola | Boat trip, swimming | Larger cove reachable by boat, hike, or car |
The main beach in town is Platja Gran or Big Beach. This is a great place for sunbathing, as you are surrounded by the stunning walls of the Old Town. Although it’s very crowded, it’s still nice to spend some time here. Besides the main beach, there are many other small beaches and secluded coves worth checking out. One of the most beautiful ones is the Cola Pola, but it requires a little walk through the forest.
Our favorite beach is Es Codolar – a hidden cove located directly behind the city walls, known for its clear turquoise waters, coarse golden sand, and rocky scenic surroundings. It’s a dramatic, cozy escape from the larger, busier main beach.
7. Stop by the Chapel of Our Lady of Socorro
While walking through the narrow cobblestone streets in the old town, we came came across the Chapel of Our Lady of Socorro. It’s a very small but well preserved old church right in the middle of the popular shopping area. But despite that, it was peaceful and relaxing place.
Except for the lovely golden alter, there is not much else to see inside. The church is not a monument that you should make a special trip to see, but if you are visiting the old town it’s worth stopping by.
I think the best view of the old fortress is from the sea. If you have more time in Tossa it’s worth renting a boat that can take you along the coast. I can only imagine how charming this place may look from the sea, especially at night when the lights are on.
Yes. Here are four copy/paste-ready sections written to match a travel-guide style.
8. Take a Boat Trip Along the Coast
One of the best ways to enjoy the rugged coastline around Tossa de Mar is by taking a boat trip from Platja Gran. These are usually short cruises that follow the coast toward Mar Menuda, Cala Pola, Cala Giverola, and the sea caves nearby. We hired a boat in the early evening and got a completely different perspective of the cliffs and coves.
I strongly recommend a boat tour, especially if you don’t have time or energy to hike Cala Llevadors. You still get to see the turquoise water, hidden beaches, and rocky coastline that make this part of Costa Brava so beautiful.
Some boats also have glass-bottom viewing areas, which makes the ride especially fun if you’re traveling with children. In high season, boats typically depart from the main beach throughout the day, but it’s best to check the schedule once you arrive because times can vary.
9. Sample the Local Seafood
As you may expect, Tossa de Mar is not short of excellent seafood restaurants, therefore no visit feels complete without sitting down for a seafood meal. Like many towns along the Costa Brava, Tossa has deep fishing traditions, and you’ll find plenty of restaurants serving fresh fish, prawns, mussels, paella, and other Mediterranean dishes.
If you want to try something especially local, look for cim i tomba, a traditional fishermen’s stew associated with Tossa de Mar. It was once a simple boat dish prepared by local fishermen, but today it appears on restaurant menus as one of the town’s culinary specialties.One of the best things to do in town is sample some of the local specialties, like Paella.
Paella is a traditional Spanish dish made with shell fish and rice. The dish has different variations, but probably the best place to try it is on the coast of Costa Brava.
To reach the Ava Gardner Statue, the best, most scenic walking route takes you directly through the stone gates of the Vila Vella (Old Town). The walk takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes from the beach.
10. Go Snorkeling in the Coves
Tossa de Mar is not just a place for sunbathing. Some of its small coves are also great for swimming and snorkeling, especially where the water is clear and the shoreline is rocky.
Platja d’Es Codolar is one of the easiest places to try snorkeling because it sits right below the old walls and can be reached on foot from the historic center. The rocky area along the beach attracts small fish, so even a short swim can be rewarding if the sea is calm.
Cala Bona, Cala Pola, and Cala Giverola are also good choices if you want a more scenic beach experience outside the center of town. Bring water shoes if you have them, as some of the coves have pebbles or rocks instead of soft sand.
11. Visit Ava Gardner’s Statue
Perched high within the walled Old Town of Tossa de Mar, there is a life-sized bronze statue of Ava Gardner – the famous Hollywood actress who fell in love with the village while filming The Pandora and the Flying Dutchman in 1950. Created by artist Ció Abellí and unveiled in 1998, the elegant monument captures Gardner standing gracefully as she gazes out over the sweep of the main beach and the Mediterranean Sea below.
To reach the statue, the best and most scenic walking route takes you directly through the stone gates of the Vila Vella (Old Town). The walk takes roughly 10 to 15 minutes from the beach along the historic stone ramparts. The hike is totally worth it because it takes you to a spot that offers spectacular views all around. And a perfect photo opportunity that blends with the cinematic history of this spot.
One Day in Tossa de Mar Itinerary
If you are visiting Tossa de Mar as a day trip from Barcelona or another town on the Costa Brava, you can see the main highlights in one full day. The town is compact and easy to explore on foot, but you’ll need to start early so you have time for both the historic center and the beach.
Morning: Explore Vila Vella and the Medieval Walls
Start your day in Vila Vella, the old fortified town that rises above the main beach. Enter through the medieval walls and spend the morning wandering through the narrow cobblestone streets, stone stairways, and quiet corners inside the old town.
As you climb higher, stop at the ruins of the Church of Sant Vicenç and continue toward the lighthouse for some of the best views over Tossa de Mar and the Mediterranean. This is also one of the best times of day for photos, before the streets and viewpoints get too crowded.
Lunch: Try Local Seafood
For lunch, choose one of the restaurants in the old town or near the waterfront and enjoy a slow meal with sea views or a cozy medieval setting. Tossa de Mar is known for its seafood, so this is a good time to try fresh fish, paella, prawns, mussels, or the local fishermen’s stew, cim i tomba.
If you’re visiting in high season, it’s worth eating a little earlier or making a reservation, especially if you want a table in the most scenic part of town.
Afternoon: Beach Time or a Boat Trip
After lunch, spend the afternoon by the water. If you want an easy beach break, stay close to the center and relax on Platja Gran, the main beach, or walk around the walls to Platja d’Es Codolar, a smaller cove tucked below Vila Vella.
If you prefer to see more of the coastline, take a boat trip from the main beach toward the nearby coves and sea caves. This is a great option if you don’t have time for a longer hike but still want to experience the rocky Costa Brava scenery around Tossa de Mar.
Sunset: Return to the Viewpoints
End your day back near Vila Vella or the lighthouse, where you can watch the light soften over the sea and the old walls. The late afternoon and sunset hours are especially beautiful in Tossa de Mar, when the crowds thin out and the medieval stones begin to glow.
Before leaving, take one last walk along the seafront promenade or stop for a drink with a view of the castle walls. If you’re staying overnight, this is when Tossa de Mar feels most magical, after many of the day-trippers have gone.
How to Get From Barcelona to Tossa de Mar
Many tourists visit Tossa de Mar as a day trip from Barcelona. Since it’s only 103 km away, it works perfectly as a day trip, but it’s even better if you can spend one night. Unfortunately, unless you have a car, there is no easy way to get to here from Barcelona. There is no train station in Tossa de Mar, so the easiest public transport option is usually the bus. If you prefer the train, you’ll need to travel as far as Blanes and continue from there by bus or taxi.
| Option | Best for | What to know |
|---|
| Option | Best for | What to know |
|---|---|---|
| Direct bus | Easiest public transport option | Buses run from Barcelona’s Estació del Nord to Tossa de Mar. In summer, there may also be departures from Ronda de Sant Pere. |
| Bus from Barcelona Airport | Travelers going straight from the airport | There are bus connections from Barcelona Airport T1 and T2 toward Tossa de Mar, usually operated via the Costa Brava routes. |
| Train + bus or taxi | Travelers who prefer trains | Take the R1 commuter train from Barcelona toward Blanes, then continue from Blanes to Tossa de Mar by bus or taxi. |
| Rental car | Most flexible option | Driving gives you more freedom to explore nearby beaches and coves, but parking can be difficult in high season. |
If you are visiting one day only, the direct bus is usually the simplest choice because it avoids the train-to-bus transfer in Blanes. However, always check the current schedule before you go, especially outside summer, as routes and departure times can change by season.
Best Time to Visit Tossa de Mar
Choosing the perfect moment for your Tossa de Mar getaway depends entirely on your travel style. If your dream vacation involves sun-drenched afternoons on the sand and swimming in the glittering Mediterranean, aim for the peak summer window between June and August. During this lively season, the Costa Brava comes alive with vibrant beach energy, outdoor dining, and warm waters. However, you will share the medieval streets of the Vila Vella with peak-season crowds, making early bookings essential.
For travelers who prefer a quieter, more intimate experience, the shoulder seasons offer absolute perfection. May and September bring crisp mornings, comfortably warm afternoons, and a peaceful atmosphere that allows you to explore the ancient castle walls without the rush. September is especially magical because the sea retains its summer warmth, yet the heavy tourist crowds have departed. If your main goals are coastal hiking and photography, the cool breeze of April or October will serve you best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, especially if you want a Costa Brava town with both beaches and history. The walled Vila Vella is the only remaining fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast, according to the official tourism office.
It is considered affordable compared to other coastal towns, offering many high-quality, reasonably priced “menu del dia” options.
Yes, especially if you want a Costa Brava town with both beaches and history. The walled Vila Vella is the only remaining fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast, according to the official tourism office.
Yes, but it is better as a long day trip because public transport takes planning. Official tourism lists bus service from Barcelona and a train option to Blanes followed by bus or taxi to Tossa.
We visited in late may and the weather was perfect. If you come for the beaches, May through September offer the best weather. June through August are very crowded and also prices are higher.
Prioritize Vila Vella, the lighthouse, Platja Gran, Es Codolar, Camí de Ronda, a boat trip, and seafood. The official tourism office also highlights Vila Vella, local gastronomy, Sa Roqueta, and Es Codolar as essentials.
Interview with Samiya Selim from the “Selim Family Raasta”
Dee Huckins
I found Tossa de Mar while doing my DNA and much to my surprise and at the age of 60, i found out my biological father was born and raised in Tossa. I have family still there, Last fall I took a trip there from the USA. I met 2 Aunts and many 1st cousins, one of which took me to the home of my grandparents within the walls of the Castle. My family history is so strong there. Walking in the footsteps of my ancestors is an amazing blessing. I will return.
Anda
We loved Tessa de Mar also. A true hidden gem!
Jean Meyer
I spent summer vacations in Tossa when I was 13 and 14, about 65 years ago. We stayed at the Miramar hotel, room was about $5 a day. I am sad to see so many hotels on the beach now. Back then, you knew just about everybody in town, especially the night club with the flamenco music and handsome dancer from Segovia that I fell in love with, of course!
Anda
Sweet memories, Jean! I still remember the gold old times when hotels were just a few dollars a night, as opposed to several hundreds a night that we pay today. I imagine Tossa Del Mar may have looked very different back then. Thanks for dropping by.
Debz
Gorgeous town and your photos are stunning. I had a holiday in Lloret de Mar when I was 12.
Anda Galffy
I was very pleasantly surprised by Llore de Mar. This was my first time in Costa Brava.
Isabella
Medieval towns always have a charm I believe, no matter if its old, stone walls bath in sun for hundreds of years, or are windswept by north winds (like in hanseatic towns) it’s always something magical about them 🙂
Sarah Ebner
I know this is a place my brother has often holidayed in and really enjoyed. The photos are gorgeous too – I know we’d like it as well!
Esther
I have lived in Spain for a while and traveled a lot there. This particular part of Spain never really appealed to me, but I must say: your pictures look stunning!!
Anda Galffy
Thanks for linking up this week, Esther.
Lyn @thetravellinglindfields
We spent several weeks circumnavigating Spain about 20 years ago. Your photos look familiar. I’m pretty sure we saw the castle but now I’m off to dig through old photos and find out for sure.
Looks like you had a great day.
Anda Galffy
You probably did, Lyn, although Spain has tens of medieval villages like this.
GiselleandCody
What a beautiful little place. So serene 🙂
Tami
Beautiful photos!
Anda Galffy
Thanks, Tami.
Sand In My Suitcase
Tossa de Mar looks very appealing! The Costa Brava area is one we’d like to visit in Spain – checking out the rocky coves and smaller villages and following in the footsteps of Dali (near Cadaques)… Hope you get back to explore the area in more depth too :-).
Anda Galffy
Costa Brava surprised me in a pleasant way. I didn’t realize it was this beautiful.
Vlad
Costa Brava looks so gorgeous, I’ve always wanted to go! I was planning once to rent a car from Barcelona and drive up there, seeing your photos made me want to go there even more!
Anda Galffy
I hope you will, Vlad.
Rhonda Albom
I love Costa Brava. We did a long term home exchange which had us living in Palamos in 2012, and it stayed with me. Your photos were wonderful memories, even though I never made it to Tossa De Mar. Three days is enough to give you a taste.
Anda Galffy
I agree, Rhonda. 3 days are enough to form an opinion about a beautiful place.
Victoria @celebratetheweekend
Anda, your photos are absolutely stunning. The post brings up memories from 14 years ago when I we visited Tossa with our then 2-year old son. We loved Costa Brava and travelled to a new village every day (stayed in Plaja d”Aro)
Anda Galffy
I’m sure you had a lot of fun back then, Victoria.
Constance - Foreign Sanctuary
The place looks and sounds amazing. It is also great to go somewhere in the off season as it has a different feel and an unique experience. The main beach in Tossa de Mar looks absolutely spectacular.
Anda Galffy
It’s good to travel to places like this off season, Constance. You can have them just for yourself sometimes.
Mary
We have heard a lot about Spain and Costa Brava recently – such a gorgeous place. Your landscape images are beautiful.
Anda Galffy
It is beautiful indeed. Hope you’ll visit it someday.
Suze the Luxury Columnist
I love the crenellated castle walls, and how nice that you managed to get there for a few hours from TBEX. I did think about attending but timing didn’t work well, sounds like you had an amazing time
Anda Galffy
Hope to meet you at one of these meetings, Suze.
Suze the Luxury Columnist
Would be great to meet up sometime Anda! I’ll let you know if I’m coming to one
Anda Galffy
Looking forward to meeting you in person, Suze.