why-visit-blanes-on-your-costa-brava-trip
After spending five days in Barcelona, we drove to Blanes, Spain. On our way there, we stopped at Montsoriu Castle. The closed gates were a stark reminder of the importance of checking the website for accurate information before visiting. It’s a lesson we won’t forget.
How to get there?
Through the road of Breda to Arbúcies (GI-552) to the height of the kilometre 7,4, take the road that goes to the neighbourhood Bonfires of Montsoriu.
After approximately 3 kilometres, it is necessary to leave the vehicle and take a footpath through the forest that, in around 40 minutes, will lead you to the castle (3 kilometres of track).
Anyway, the view was spectacular.
Blanes: A Beachside Welcome on the Costa Brava
Blanes, a town and municipality in the comarca of Selva in Girona, Catalonia, Spain, is a unique gem. Its picturesque charm, unlike any other, will not only pique your interest but also leave you eager to explore more. Its uniqueness is something you won’t want to miss.
Its coast is part of the Costa Brava, which stretches from Blanes to the French border.
Blanes is a vibrant melting pot of languages, each contributing to its rich cultural tapestry.
While Spanish and French are the most commonly spoken languages, a few locals also converse in English, offering a culturally diverse experience for all visitors. This diversity is sure to pique your interest and make your visit an exciting experience.
Blanes is a tranquil haven in the off-season, offering a serene perspective away from the hustle and bustle of the hot and busy summer months. This peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those seeking a relaxing getaway.
The Beaches
Blanes is often called the “Gateway to the Costa Brava,” and you get that sense walking onto its shores. There are nearly 4 kilometres of beaches and coves here, ranging from vast sandy stretches to more tucked-away rocky spots.
Platja de Blanes is the beach in the heart of town. It sits beside the old town center, next to the marina and Sa Palomera rock (that dramatic rocky promontory that marks the symbolic start of the Costa Brava). It measures approximately 625 meters in length and 30 meters in width.
One thing to note: many beaches slope down steeply, so even a few meters from shore, water can get a lot deeper. If you’re with young kids, there are shallow areas (especially south of the flags in Platja de Blanes) that are better for paddling.
The Promenade, Seafront and Scenic Touches
Beyond the sand, the walk-along promenade is a big part of what gives Blanes its charm: wooden benches, cafés, seafood restaurants with terraces, and ringside views of the horizon. Sa Palomera rock is a natural landmark—walking around it offers different perspectives of the sea, the town, and boats passing by, among other sights.
At dusk, locals and tourists alike drift here: strolling, stopping for gelato or tapas, watching the sunset over the sea. It’s not flashy, but it feels genuine.
Markets / Local Life
To truly experience Blanes, visit its vibrant outdoor markets and food stalls. The markets are lively, social places as much as commerce. You’ll find a wide variety of fresh produce, local crafts, and unique souvenirs. The atmosphere is bustling and friendly, with vendors shouting greetings, locals haggling over fruit weights, kids eyeing sweets, and tourists trying to navigate Spanish + Catalan.
Timing: Morning markets are best before the heat sets in and before things get too crowded. Also, in peak summer, go to the beach early or later in the afternoon if you want more shade / less heat.
Daily Fruit & Vegetable Market: Held almost every day (except Sundays) along Passeig de Dintre, just one street back from the main beach. Fresh produce, colours, smells—tomatoes, citrus, olives, herbs, etc.
Monday Market (Mercadillo de Lunes): This is a big weekly market along the boulevard (Passeig Cortils i Vieta) near the sea. Stalls sell a wide range of items, including clothing, jewelry, toys, beach supplies, souvenirs, and sometimes handmade goods. If you want to blend in, this is the place.
Smaller markets or stall events also happen seasonally (especially in summer) along the promenade or in plazas. Sometimes tied to local festivals, “fiestas”, or special food events.
This was the best part of the day, walking between the stalls at the markets.
The meat at the local markets was delicious.
What To Expect
**Every day of the week, except Sunday, you can enjoy the convenience of fresh fruit and vegetable market stalls by the beach.
**Only on Monday, the market is in another place, and you will find a flea market on the beach.
**Most local stores operate from 10 am to 2 pm and reopen from 4:30 pm until 8:30 pm. They told us that Spanish people like to sleep during the day!!
** Sunday 10 am until 2 pm. Some places will display their open hours, but when you arrive, they are closed.
**Websites for restaurants, but don’t count on them. We checked a few places for their hours, but they were all closed when we arrived.
**Most of the restaurant’s menu is Spanish when dining in Blanes. Keep a translation app on your phone so you’re always prepared to savour the local flavours.
**Also, try local seafood dishes, such as “suquet de peix” (fish stew). **
Enjoy tapas and Catalan specialties at seaside restaurants. (The best tapas are in Barcelona and are less expensive.)
Visit a local “bodega” for Spanish wines and vermouth.
The food is good, and the prices are cheaper than I thought.
**Use Public Transport or Walk
Blanes is very walkable. Trains and buses connect easily to Barcelona and other coastal towns.
**Attend Local Festivals
The Focs de Blanes (Fireworks Festival in July) is one of Spain’s largest pyrotechnic shows. Don’t miss it if you’re there!
**Speak a Few Words of Spanish or Catalan
Basic phrases like “Hola,” “Gracias,” and “Por favour” go a long way.
Catalan is widely spoken, but Spanish is understood.
D'ont
**Don’t Expect Everything in English
While some tourist areas speak English, many locals don’t. Google Translate helps.
**Don’t Be Too Loud or Disrespectful in Public
Spaniards enjoy a vibrant social life, but being overly loud or rude is frowned upon.
**Don’t Wear Beachwear Off the Beach
Covering up when leaving the beach – walking shirtless or in bikinis in town is considered disrespectful.
**Don’t Forget Sun Protection
The sun can be intense. Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and stay hydrated.
**Don’t Ignore Local Customs. Observing and respecting local customs is a key part of your travel experience. For instance, tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in restaurants.
Observe how locals behave in restaurants (e.g., tipping is appreciated but not mandatory).
Dinner is late, usually after 8:30 PM, because Spaniards prefer to eat their main meal later in the evening. So, plan your meals accordingly.
**Don’t Rely Only on Credit Cards
While many places accept cards, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash, especially when visiting smaller cafes or local spots. This will ensure you’re prepared for any situation.
Traveling Soon? Here’s What I Use to Plan My Trips!
Where to Stay
Check out the Hotels or Airbnb.
From cozy apartments to entire villas, there’s always something fun to find.
Getting Around
I’m one of those people who loves the freedom of driving from place to place. My go-to options: TripAdvisor
Travel Insurance (Don’t Skip It!)
Things happen—delayed flights, unexpected injuries, or (ugh) theft. That’s why I always get travel insurance before leaving the country. Find the one that best suits your needs.
Packing & Essentials
I’ve compiled a list of my go-to travel essentials, including packing cubes, travel adapters, toiletry containers, and comfortable walking shoes, among other valuable items.
Check out my Travel Guide page for all the information you need.
One last thing: before you jet off, don’t forget to check travel.state.gov for visa requirements and safety updates. Better safe than sorry.
Also, register at the consulate where you are travelling.
Our appartment
The place we will be staying for the next two weeks is an apartment my son rented, and it is conveniently located near the beach, just a 5-8 minute walk away. Strolling through charming streets, you’ll find a variety of shops, restaurants, and groceries, as well as a weekday produce market, all within walking distance, offering a wide range of options for our stay.
Don’t forget the tourism tax (30 euros) for the four of us, which is a local fee that helps maintain the beauty and cleanliness of the area.
View from our place..
Calle del Penedès 1, 17300 Blanes, Gerona, España
Conclusion:
Staying two weeks in Blanes offers a perfect balance between relaxation and exploration.
Our time in Blanes was graced with almost perfect weather. Despite occasional rain, most days were sunny and cloudy, with one particularly hot day providing a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.
This charming Costa Brava town, Blanes, is a treasure trove of experiences. It provides beautiful beaches, scenic coastal walks, and a welcoming atmosphere. With ample time, you can enjoy the vibrant local culture and take day trips to nearby destinations, such as Barcelona, Girona, Tossa de Mar, and the stunning Montseny Natural Park.
Whether you’re savouring fresh seafood, wandering through the Marimurtra Botanical Gardens, or simply soaking in the Mediterranean views, Blanes offers a wonderful mix of leisure and adventure.
A two-week stay allows for a deeper connection with the town’s charm and a truly refreshing getaway.
Day Trips From Blanes
