Tossa de Mar is one of the most popular and beautiful resorts on the Costa Brava — a historic fishing village-turned-holiday destination on the Catalan coast whose superbly preserved medieval walled old town (Vila Vella), with its castle and lighthouse perched on a rocky headland overlooking turquoise coves, is the only surviving fortified medieval town on the Catalan coast and one of the most romantic settings in Spain. The town famously attracted artists in the 1930s, including Marc Chagall, who called Tossa “blue paradise,” and the combination of the Vila Vella’s ancient cobbled streets, the excellent beaches (Platja Gran right below the castle), and the lively promenade make Tossa one of the Costa Brava’s most complete resort experiences.

Quick Facts: Tossa de Mar, Costa Brava

• Best time to visit: May–June and September for warm weather without the peak July–August crowds; the Vila Vella is especially magical at sunset when the castle walls are lit and the light turns golden on the Mediterranean
• How to get there: ~1.5 hours from Barcelona by car (C-32); regular buses from Barcelona Estació del Nord (2 hours)
• Don’t miss: The view of the Vila Vella from the Platja Gran beach — one of the classic Costa Brava photographs — and the walk up through the old town to the lighthouse at sunset

One of the most popular resorts on the Costa Brava in Spain is Tossa de Mar with more than 5000 inhabitants. This former fishing village began to develop in the 90′s of the 20th century and today offers a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. The town boasts a rich history, which is proved by the numerous monuments, including the remains of the castle and fortifications.

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The old city center of Tossa de Mar offers a network of narrow streets and its most important monuments include the Church of San Vicente. You also should visit a local gallery and city museum. Along the coast you can find the beaches like Gran Playa, El Codolar and La Baume, offering a complete tourist service. At sea you can enjoy a variety of water sports, such as the diving, sailing, surfing, water skiing or scooters. Along the coast there in a pretty nice promenade with shops and souvenir shops, clothing, jewelry and ceramics. Hotels in Tossa de Mar offer a large hotel complexes, but you will find also the camping here.

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Have you wandered Tossa’s medieval Vila Vella or discovered the Costa Brava’s walled town? Share your Catalan coastal discoveries in the comments! 🏰

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