The northeastern Catalonia offers a tapestry of landscapes and cultural experiences that few European areas can rival. Medieval fortresses overlook rolling plains, volcanic hills cradle tranquil villages, and rugged coastal cliffs give way to glittering coves. Here are ten of the most picturesque small towns in northeastern Catalonia.
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Peratallada: An Open-Air Medieval Museum
"Peratallada" literally means "carved stone," perfectly describing this village, where every surface seems hewn from the living rock. Protected by thick walls and a moat carved into solid stone, Peratallada developed as a strategic defensive site. Today, it charms visitors with its timeless look, intimate squares, and artisanal crafts, offering a glimpse into a slower era where communities were built to last.
Seven Must-Sees:
Marvel at the Castle of Peratallada
Built in the 11th century, the castle's stone walls and towers witnessed centuries of feudal lords and knights. Wander the exterior, imagining the historical figures who once paced these ramparts.
Dine in the Plaza de les Voltes
This central square, shaded by stone arches, creates a cosy, enclosed atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely meal of local Catalan dishes, perhaps calçots (grilled spring onions) in season, paired with DO Empordà wines.
Explore the Ancient Streets
Wander the labyrinth of lanes, taking in intricately carved doorways, window boxes overflowing with geraniums and hidden courtyards. Look closely at the stonework for chisel marks left by medieval stonemasons.
Visit the Church of Sant Esteve
A short stroll from the centre, this Gothic church exudes calm. Its centuries-old walls have seen countless celebrations, prayers, and community gatherings.
Shop for Artisan Crafts
Peratallada's boutiques showcase handmade ceramics, jewellery, and woven goods. Purchasing a piece here supports local artisans, ensuring these craft traditions endure.
Capture Stunning Views of the Empordà Countryside: At the village's edge, look out over rolling hills, olive groves, and vineyards. The changing light throughout the day creates ever-shifting patterns in the landscape.
Savor Local Wines
Nearby vineyards produce vibrant DO Empordà wines, known for their character and quality. Many wineries offer tastings—make time to sip a glass or two guided by a passionate local vintner.
Extra Tip: Visit in autumn during harvest to taste just-pressed olive oil and new wines fresh from the cellars.
Pals: The Hilltop Guardian of Rice Fields
Pals overlooks the fertile Emporda plain and the shimmering Mediterranean atop a hill. This vantage point, combined with the wealth of agriculture (notably rice cultivation), allowed Pals to flourish. Its meticulous restoration ensures visitors appreciate medieval architecture amid floral displays, artisan workshops, and a gentle coastal breeze wafting inland.
Seven Must-Sees:
Climb the Tower of the Hours
This Romanesque tower, dating from the 12th century, offers panoramic views. Gaze out at green rice paddies, terracotta rooftops, and, on clear days, the distant sea.
Walk the Ancient Walls
Stroll along well-preserved walls that once defended the town, pausing at viewpoints to admire the careful urban planning.
Visit Sant Pere Church
This church blends Romanesque and Gothic elements, reflecting Pals' evolving tastes and influences over the centuries. Its interior is hushed and contemplative.
Stroll Through Flower-Lined Alleys
Pals' narrow streets burst with colour. Bougainvillea cascades over stone walls, and decorative tiles catch the sunlight, delighting every step.
Taste the Region's Famous Rice Dishes
Pals is known for its high-quality rice cultivated in nearby fields. Sample arròs a la cassola—creamy rice simmered with local seafood or rabbit.
Visit Platja de Pals
A short drive leads to the vast, sandy beach. Enjoy a dip in the Mediterranean, try paddleboarding, or simply relax with a picnic or try one of the local restaurants as seabirds wheel overhead.
Explore Artisan Shops
Ceramic ateliers, textile workshops, and gourmet food stores beckon. Bring home a hand-painted bowl or a packet of locally milled rice as a tasty souvenir.
Extra Tip: For an immersive culinary experience, book a cooking class in Pals to learn traditional rice recipes passed down through generations.
Tossa de Mar: Coastal Charisma and Medieval Majesty
Tossa de Mar offers a rare combination: a medieval walled town beside turquoise bays and sandy beaches. Once a quiet fishing village, Tossa became a 20th-century haven for artists like Marc Chagall. Today, travellers revel in its contrasts—ancient towers silhouetted against a shimmering horizon, rustic alleys leading to modern boutiques, and fresh seafood served steps from historic ramparts.
Seven Must-Sees:
Explore Vila Vella
The last fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast, Vila Vella's stone walls and winding lanes evoke centuries of maritime trade and corsair raids.
Climb the Castle Towers
For panoramic sea views, ascend the towers rising above the town. The vista of red-tiled roofs and deep-blue waters is unforgettable.
Relax on Platja Gran
Tossa's main beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, or renting a kayak. Children paddle in shallow waters while couples sip sangria under beach umbrellas.
Visit the Municipal Museum
Housed in a former governor's residence in the old town, it displays archaeological finds and paintings that highlight Tossa's role as an artist's refuge.
Walk the Coastal Path
The Camí de Ronda trails hug the coastline, revealing hidden coves, pine-scented groves, and dramatic cliffs.
Try Cim i Tomba
A traditional fishermen's stew made from the day's catch, potatoes, and fragrant olive oil. This hearty dish reflects Tossa's maritime heritage.
Enjoy a Boat Trip
Hop aboard a small boat to discover secret inlets and sea caves and soak in the Costa Brava's rugged beauty.
Extra Tip: Visit in the quieter spring or autumn months for mild weather and fewer crowds, which will allow you to better appreciate Tossa's serene charm.
Besalu: A Medieval Gateway to History
Besalu, perched along the Fluvia River, is among the best-preserved medieval ensembles in Catalonia. Founded around a fortress that once guarded important trade routes, it flourished between the 10th and 12th centuries. The town's layout remains remarkably intact, immersing visitors in an authentic medieval environment. Besalu's Jewish heritage, particularly rare in Europe, is a point of pride and intrigue, reflecting a time when different communities coexisted and contributed to a rich cultural tapestry.
Seven Must-Sees:
Cross the Iconic Besalu Bridge
Built in the 12th century, this Romanesque bridge is Besalu's most recognizable symbol. Its seven arches stretch elegantly over the river, providing a scenic vantage point. Arrive early for a peaceful walk at dawn or linger at dusk to watch the warm light turn the stonework golden.
Visit the Miqveh
One of Europe's few remaining Jewish ritual baths, the 12th-century Miqveh provides a tangible link to the town's Jewish community in the Middle Ages. A guided tour illuminates the daily life, traditions, and contributions of Jewish residents centuries ago.
Explore the Monastery of Sant Pere
This Romanesque monastery, dating to the 10th century, showcases exquisite architectural details, including a beautifully carved rose window. Its serene cloister and understated interiors reflect the austere spiritual life of medieval monastic communities.
Stroll Through Medieval Streets
Besalu's narrow cobblestone lanes are lined with stone houses and artisanal shops. Wander without a set plan—peek into boutiques selling handcrafted ceramics or step into a family-run café for a cup of thick hot chocolate.
Discover the Church of Sant Vicenc
This Romanesque church's notable facade and tranquil nave encapsulate its era's religious devotion and artistic skill. Inside, subtle ornamentation and fragments of frescoes tell silent stories of faith.
Enjoy Traditional Catalan Cuisine:
Cosy taverns serve hearty dishes such as escudella (a rich stew) and specialities made with local mushrooms. Many ingredients are sourced from nearby farms and forests, linking the cuisine to the region's terroir.
Photograph Besalú at Sunset: As evening falls, lanterns illuminate the stone archways and the bridge's reflection shimmers in the river. The interplay of natural and artificial light at dusk creates a romantic, timeless ambience perfect for photography.
Extra Tip: Consider visiting Besalu during its medieval fair (held in summer), when performers, market stalls, and costumed locals bring the town's storied past vividly to life.
Cadaques: A Haven for Artists and Dreamers
Cadaques has long inspired creatives with its whitewashed facades and luminous bay. Salvador Dalí, who lived nearby in Portlligat, famously drew on the region's surreal landscapes for his art. Isolated by mountains, the town maintains an otherworldly calm. Its crystal-clear waters, distinctive architecture, and numerous galleries make Cadaqués a cultural hotspot, blending Mediterranean allure with avant-garde spirit.
Detailed Seven Must-Sees and Activities:
Visit the Salvador Dalí
House MuseumJust a short walk from the town centre, Dalí's home brims with whimsical décor that reflects the artist's eccentric genius.
Wander Through the Old Town
Stroll narrow, cobblestone streets lined with whitewashed houses, their wooden shutters painted in vivid blues and greens.
Relax on Platja Gran
Cadaqués' central beach sets a peaceful scene of bobbing fishing boats and distant laughter from waterfront terraces.
Hike to Cap de Creus
The surrounding natural park is a geological wonderland—weather-sculpted rocks, windblown vegetation, and panoramic sea views that once fueled Dalí's imagination.
Admire Església de Santa Maria
Climb the hill to this 17th-century church for panoramic vistas of the town's red-tiled roofs and the shimmering bay. Inside, note the lavish baroque altarpiece.
Savour Local Seafood
Anchovies, sea urchins, and freshly grilled fish abound in Cadaques' restaurants. Enjoy them with a chilled glass of local white wine.
Discover Art Galleries
Cadaques' galleries celebrate the region's creative heritage, from contemporary installations to traditional Catalan painting.
Extra Tip
Plan a day trip to Portlligat and continue to the Cap de Creus Lighthouse for a truly immersive cultural and natural experience.
Castello d'Empuries: Where Medieval Splendor Meets Natural Serenity
Once the capital of Emporda County, Castello d'Empuries sits amid fertile plains and near coastal wetlands. Its grand basilica and medieval layout reflect past prosperity, while the nearby Aiguamolls de l'Emporda Nature Reserve underscores the region's ecological importance. History and nature coexist here, offering a multifaceted experience.
Seven Must-Sees
Admire the Basilica of Santa Maria
Dubbed the "Cathedral of Emporda," this Gothic church's soaring columns and intricate carvings exemplify medieval religious artistry.
Walk through the Old Jewish Quarter
Narrow streets recall a time of cultural diversity. Look for architectural elements indicating former synagogues or merchant houses.
Visit the Flour Mill and Eco-Museum
Housed in a former flour mill, this museum explains the town's agricultural past and how local grain production shaped the community's fortunes.
Explore Aiguamolls de l’Emporda
A wetland reserve home to storks, flamingos, and herons. Trails and observation towers cater to birdwatchers and nature lovers, offering a tranquil escape.
Attend the Medieval Festival (September)
Knights, minstrels, and artisans transform the town into a medieval stage, allowing visitors to step back in time and immerse themselves in period festivities.
Shop for Local Delicacies
Markets and boutiques sell regional cheeses, cured sausages, and honey. Sample them or pack some for a picnic by the wetlands.
Photograph the City Gate
The ancient portal stands as a silent sentinel, framing views of the old town and symbolizing centuries of guarded prosperity.
Extra Tip
Combine a cultural tour of Castello d'Empuries with a guided birdwatching excursion in the wetlands.
Rupit i Pruit: A Mountain Hideaway
High in the Pyrenees, Rupit i Pruit feels like stepping into a fairytale. Dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and mossy forests surround a village of stone houses and cobblestone lanes. Long isolated, the community preserved traditional ways of life, evident in architecture, cuisine, and crafts. Nature and history blend seamlessly here, making it a perfect retreat for those seeking tranquillity and outdoor adventure.
Seven Must-Sees:
Cross the Hanging Bridge
Sway gently above the river, viewing steep rock walls and rustic rooftops. It's a picturesque introduction to the village.
Visit the Church of Sant Miquel
This 12th-century church's Romanesque bell tower rises above the stone homes, serving as a landmark and the spiritual heart of Rupit.
Hike to Salt de Sallent
This waterfall plunges over 100 meters into a lush gorge. The moderate trail rewards hikers with panoramic viewpoints and the soothing sound of rushing water.
Admire Mirador del Castell
A short trek leads to a lookout offering sweeping vistas of terraced fields, dense forests, and distant peaks. Photographers and painters flock here to capture the landscape.
Savor Local Mountain Cuisine
Restaurants serve hearty dishes that might include bolts (wild mushrooms), game meats, and aged cheeses. Rustic bread and intense red wine round out a perfect meal.
Discover Local Crafts
Small workshops sell wood carvings, woollen scarves, and handwoven baskets. Purchasing these items supports Rupit's traditional craft economy.
Explore Cobblestone Streets
The village's timeless atmosphere invites slow wandering. Each corner reveals a charming doorway, a secret garden, or a glimpse of village life unchanged for generations.
Extra Tip
Visit in spring when wildflowers carpet the meadows or in autumn when the foliage blazes with reds and golds, enhancing Rupit's natural splendour.
L'Escala: Anchovies, History, and Coastal Leisure
L'Escala is known for two things: anchovies and ancient civilizations. This town on the Costa Brava combines a thriving fishing tradition with a legacy of Greek and Roman colonies at Empúries. With family-friendly beaches, lively promenades, and savoury seafood, L'Escala appeals to history enthusiasts and casual vacationers.
Detailed Seven Must-Sees and Activities:
Visit the Ruins of Empúries
Roam the remains of ancient Greek and Roman settlements, marvelling at mosaics, temples, and an amphitheatre. The archaeological site connects the Mediterranean's ancient past to the present day.
Relax on Platja de Riells
A broad, sandy beach well-suited for families. Calm waters beckon swimmers, while paddleboards and kayaks offer mild adventure.
Tour the Anchovy and Salt Museum
Learn why L'Escala's anchovies are considered a delicacy worldwide. Exhibits detail the salting process and the fishing traditions that have sustained the town for generations.
Stroll the Seafront Promenade
Palm trees, ice cream shops, and lively cafés line this waterfront walkway. It's perfect for a late afternoon passing (promenade) to soak in the laid-back ambience.
Try Anchovy-Based Dishes
From lightly salted fillets to anchovy-stuffed olives, these tiny fish pack a flavorful punch that pairs beautifully with crusty bread and olive oil.
Take a Boat Tour
Explore the rocky shoreline, discovering secret coves and crystal-clear waters. Some tours include snorkelling stops where you can observe colourful marine life.
Watch the Sunset at El Portitxol
This scenic cove offers a prime view of the sun sinking into the Mediterranean, bathing the landscape in warm oranges and pinks.
Extra Tip
Pair anchovies with a crisp white wine from Empordà's vineyards for a sublime taste of Catalonia's maritime-meets-agrarian culture.
Santa Pau: Serenity in a Volcanic Landscape
Santa Pau enjoys an almost otherworldly setting in the heart of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Extinct volcanoes, fertile fields, and dense woodlands envelop this medieval village. The region's volcanic soil enriches agriculture, producing unique flavours that find their way into local cuisine, especially the prized fesols de Santa Pau (beans).
Detailed Seven Must-Sees and Activities:
Explore Firal dels Bous
The main square, once used for cattle markets, is now a peaceful, arcaded plaza where you can sip coffee and watch village life unfold.
Visit Santa Maria Church
A Romanesque treasure, the church invites quiet contemplation. The patina on its stones and the simple interior echo centuries of devotion.
Hike in Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park
Trails lead to extinct volcanic cones and lava fields reclaimed by lush forests. This natural classroom illustrates geology's power and patience.
Climb the Croscat Volcano
Croscat's cross-section reveals layers of volcanic ash and soil, a geological storybook that geologists and curious hikers find fascinating.
Try Fesols de Santa Pau
These white beans are celebrated for their delicate texture and flavour. Enjoy them in hearty stews, salads, or as a side dish to local sausages.
Stroll Through Medieval Streets
The village's modest size encourages slow exploration. Lantern-lit alleys, stone balconies, and wooden shutters offer countless photography opportunities.
Take a Carriage Ride
For a romantic or family-friendly experience, tour the countryside by horse-drawn carriage, listening to birdsong and the gentle clop of hooves.
Extra Tip
Visit in spring when the meadows bloom or in autumn when the mushroom season brings a culinary bounty and warm, earthy scents to the forests.
Monells: A Picturesque Film Set Come to Life
Monells feels as though it was created for a storybook. With its medieval square, flower-bedecked lanes, and ivy-clad stone walls, it's no wonder directors have chosen it as a filming location. This tiny village offers a quiet escape from the bustle of modern life, inviting you to linger over coffee, browse local crafts, and savour the essence of rural Catalonia.
Detailed Seven Must-Sees and Activities:
Admire Plaza Jaume I
The central square, ringed by stone arches, is Monells' heart. Sit at an outdoor table, enjoy a glass of vermouth, and watch villagers go about their day.
Wander the Stone-Paved Streets
These tranquil alleys are adorned with potted plants, wrought-iron balconies, and the whisper of distant laughter.
Visit Sant Genís Church
A Romanesque gem that reflects centuries of faith and communal gatherings in this small settlement.
Photograph Rustic Buildings
The harmonious blend of stone, wood, and greenery makes every façade worthy of a snapshot. Time seems to slow down in Monells.
Enjoy Catalan Cuisine
Sample botifarra (Catalan sausage) or escalivada (roasted vegetables) in one of the village's homestyle restaurants. Each bite connects you to culinary traditions passed down through generations.
Explore Surrounding Trails
The countryside around Monells invites gentle hikes or bike rides. Fields of sunflowers, olive groves, and the distant hum of bees paint a peaceful rural portrait.
Relax in Hidden Courtyards
Monells is full of small nooks and gardens where you can read a book, reflect on your travels, or simply enjoy the silence.
Extra Tip
Bring a sketchbook or journal—Monells' quiet beauty is perfect for creative pursuits, such as drawing, photography, or writing personal reflections.
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