Villas in Costa Brava, Spain

There really is something for everyone when it comes to attractions in Costa Brava. From the ancient Ruins of Empuries, to exploring the wonderful beaches this coastline has to offer, visiting museums and strolling through medieval villages, there is plenty of choice if you like to get out and about on your holiday. Enjoy Costa Brava’s captivating music particularly in the district of Baix Empordi. In August, put on top of your list the International Music Festival which features classical music at the Torroella de Montgri, vowing to mystify you with the melodies of ancient music, jazz and flamenco. The stunning scenery and excellent climate means golfing is also popular here. The region is now home to ten courses, some of which are rated amongst the best in Europe. There are also two water parks to pick for a day out with the kids or why not visit attractions such as Marineland or the botanical gardens near Blanes. No trip to the Costa Brava is complete without a visit to the old town of Girona more than a thousand years of history come together in old Girona, which is built around the Cathedral.

Costa Brava’s beaches are definitely the star attraction of this Mediterranean holiday spot and you’re spoilt for choice here. The Costa Brava’s beaches are immaculate, Tossa de Mar’s sands boast two Blue Flag strips backed by a string of beach bars and cafés, it’s a popular pick with families. Likewise, Lloret de Mar has plenty of buzz with its tree-lined promenade and watersports. If you truly want to experience the best beaches that Costa Brava has to offer, make sure to visit the “Blue Flag” beaches of Llafanc, Aigua Blava, Tamariu, and Gandia as well as L'Estartit which is one of the biggest sandy beaches on the whole of the Costa Brava overlooking the mendes Islands.

As you would expect from a region rich with cultural and historical heritage, the Costa Brava’s landscape is dotted with ancient medieval castles, watchtowers and villages. Many of these villages have ancient cathedrals and churches as well, many of which are believed to be constructed in the 11th and 12th century. Ancient Roman ruins in historic towns such as Sant Antoni de Calonge can be found and discover the amazing works of Salvador Dali in Cadaques. Spend time in Girona and lose yourself in a walk around the Old Town, which has spectacular monuments, a superb medieval center with old fortifications, including the western world’s largest sections of wall dating from the time of Charlemagne, one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in Spain, and the city’s 15th century Cathedral with the widest Gothic span in the world. The old city of Barcelona, known as the Barrio Gotico, full of history and culture with its old walls, beautiful monuments, and winding pedestrian streets, is fascinating and well worth exploring.

The variety of Costa Brava’s resorts provide an array of ambiances to suit you. Sample the faster pace and the lively atmosphere in Lloret de Mar with its many bars, shops, restaurants and discos streaming the long sandy beach or in contrast, take a stroll along L’ Esartit’s promenade and enjoy a fresh fish supper near the port at dusk. For quieter resorts with a slightly more upmarket feel try the atmospheric little towns of Taramiu, Begur and palafrugell, or delightful medieval Pals. All offer plenty of Catalan charisma and style just a few miles inland from the beaches. Embrace the walled city of Gironas historical ambiance, home to a few quaint Jazz bars featuring live performances or opt for a restaurant situated in front of the Cathedral for a special setting.

• Visit the Old town quarter and walled city of Girona which dates back to the Roman period.

• Visit Marineland near Blanes, with dolphin, sea lion and parrot shows.

• Visit the medieval villages of Pals and Peratallada.

• Take a trip to one of two water parks, water world in Lloret de Mar or Aquabrava in Roses.

• During the peak summer season attend Torroella de Montgrí and Peralada music festivals and watch the town come to life with music.

• If you're a nature lover, a visit to the botanical gardens in Blanes is a must!

• Take a trip to Barcelona for the day and shop til you drop or marvel at its fascinating history.