Costa Brava & Medieval Village Small Group Tour Including Lunch

Exploring Spain’s Costa Brava with a Touch of Medieval Charm

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Barcelona and see some of the most breathtaking coastlines in Europe, this Costa Brava & Medieval Village Small Group Tour offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, history, and authentic local flavor. For just around $127, you’ll spend roughly ten and a half hours exploring rugged cliffs, lush botanical gardens, charming seaside towns, and a well-preserved medieval fortress. The experience is led by guides like Enrique and Berta, whose enthusiasm and knowledge truly elevate the day.

What we particularly love about this tour is the personalized feel you get from traveling with a small group—up to 16 people—making it easier to ask questions and really soak in each stop. The scenic drive along the coast, with views that seem almost unreal, is a highlight, as is the chance to enjoy a traditional three-course Spanish lunch. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that the tour involves some hills and stairs, which might pose a challenge for travelers with limited mobility.

This experience suits those who want a full, well-organized day out with a good mix of guided insight and free time to explore at their own pace. If you’re the type of traveler who appreciates stunning scenery, good food, and a taste of local history without the hassle of planning every detail yourself, this tour likely hits the sweet spot.

Key Points

• Beautiful coastal scenery with cliffs, pine groves, and rugged headlands.
• Personalized small-group experience ensures more direct interaction with guides.
• Includes a traditional 3-course lunch with a drink, emphasizing local flavors.
• Plenty of free time to explore Tossa de Mar and enjoy the beaches or shops.
• Comfortable transportation in an air-conditioned van, avoiding crowded buses.
• A mix of guided and independent activities allows flexible exploration.

A Deep Dive into the Day

Starting Point and First Impressions

Meet your guide at the Palau de la Música in Barcelona, right in the city’s vibrant historic center. The morning briefing is a chance to get excited, grab a quick coffee, and hear some background about the day ahead. The group is kept intentionally small—maximum 16—which is a significant advantage for comfort and interaction. We like the convenience of starting right from the city, without needing to arrange separate transportation.

Scenic Drive to Costa Brava

Leaving Barcelona through the Eixample district, your guide shares snippets of the city’s history before settling into a smooth 60-minute ride eastward. The transition from the bustling urban environment to the tranquil coast is striking. As you approach Cala de Sant Francesc, the views become more dramatic—towering cliffs, sweeping coves, and pine trees stretching to the horizon.

Cala de Sant Francesc: Hidden Beach Gem

Arriving at this local-secret cove early in the morning means you’ll have the beach almost entirely to yourself. We loved the way the waters were crystal clear, perfect for a quick swim or just relaxing on the sun-warmed sand. The reviews echo this sentiment; Patricia called it a “fun day along the beautiful coast,” praising the “awesome, intelligent driver” and the stories shared along the way.

You get about two hours here—enough time to sunbathe, take photos, or wander along the shoreline. If you prefer, you can stay longer or leave earlier to explore the nearby cliffs and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Marimurtra Botanical Gardens: Clifftop Wonders

Next stop is the Jardi Botanic Marimurtra, perched high above the sea on stunning cliffs. This garden is home to an impressive collection of exotic plants and offers some of the best panoramic views of the Mediterranean. The waves crashing below and the endless blue in the distance make this a memorable spot.

Many reviews mention the gardens’ beauty and the incredible vistas. Margret_S called it her favorite part, praising Enrique’s humor and knowledge, noting that “the views of the coast are amazing.” You can spend about an hour wandering through the plantings or simply enjoy the scenery from the viewpoints.

Lunch in Blanes: A Taste of Local Cuisine

After exploring the gardens, the tour proceeds to the town of Blanes for lunch. The included meal is a highlight—three courses of lovingly prepared local dishes, paired with a glass of sangria, wine, or beer. The reviews rave about the food; Gayle_N described it as “amazing,” emphasizing the quality and regional flavors like garlic prawns, sausage, and veal.

The lunch spot is a family-run restaurant, adding an authentic touch. It’s a great chance to relax and soak in the local atmosphere before heading deeper into the region.

Castle of Sant Joan & Scenic Drive to Tossa de Mar

Post-lunch, the group visits the Castle of Sant Joan, which offers sweeping views over Blanes. It’s a brief stop but a perfect vantage point for photos and appreciating the area’s natural beauty. Then, it’s a short drive to the medieval town of Tossa de Mar—arguably the tour’s crown jewel.

Tossa de Mar: Medieval Charm and Coastal Views

Tossa de Mar is often described as a “fairytale” town. Its well-preserved fortress walls and cobbled streets are a joy to wander. The lighthouse atop the hill offers breathtaking views of the coastline, and the old town’s whitewashed houses create a quintessential Mediterranean scene.

Many reviewers, including Lara_R, highlight the charm of Tossa’s maze of streets, shops, and beaches. You’ll have around two hours here to explore at your own pace—whether that means visiting the fortress, relaxing at the beach, or shopping for souvenirs.

Return to Barcelona

By late afternoon, the tour winds down, and you’ll head back to the city, arriving around 7 pm. The ride offers a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights or review photos taken along the way.

The Practicalities and Value

This tour priced at $126.57 strikes us as very good value for a full day of sightseeing, food, and culture. The small-group setting makes for a relaxed experience, and the included lunch is a definite plus—especially given the rave reviews about its quality and regional authenticity.

The itinerary is well-balanced: scenic drives, nature, history, and free time. The stops at Cala de Sant Francesc and the botanical garden are highlights that enable you to enjoy natural beauty away from crowds. The inclusion of free time in Tossa de Mar is especially appreciated by travelers who want the flexibility to relax or explore on their own.

Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort, and the fact that the tour operates in English makes it accessible for most visitors. The maximum group size of 16 means you won’t feel lost in a herd, and guides like Enrique and Berta are praised for their humor and knowledge.

A potential drawback is the reliance on stairs and hills, which some reviews note. If mobility is a concern, you might want to plan accordingly or inquire about accessibility options.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive yet relaxed day outside Barcelona, this tour suits those craving scenic beauty with cultural depth. It’s perfect if you enjoy nature, historical towns, and regional food, but prefer not to navigate public transport or self-drive. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate small-group experiences, where personal interaction with guides greatly enhances the trip.

Final Thoughts

This Costa Brava and medieval village tour offers a balanced combination of natural scenery, cultural charm, and good food—all in a compact package. The highlight for many is the breathtaking coastline views and the authentic flavor of the lunch. The guides, known for their humor and knowledge, truly make the experience engaging and informative.

While some might find the day’s structure a bit packed, most reviews agree that the variety of stops and the opportunity to explore independently make it worthwhile. For those who want an easy, well-organized way to see some of Spain’s most beautiful coastlines and historic towns, it’s hard to beat.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes. You’ll travel in an air-conditioned vehicle from Barcelona to Costa Brava and back, with a small group for comfort.

Are meals included?
Yes. The tour includes a three-course lunch with a drink—either sangria, wine, beer, or a soft drink.

What if I want more free time in Tossa de Mar?
The tour provides about two hours there, which most find sufficient. If you prefer more relaxed exploration, consider extending your stay independently after the tour.

Are there any physical activity requirements?
There are some hills and stairs, especially in the botanical gardens and Tossa de Mar’s old town, which could be challenging for some travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is it suitable for children or elderly travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but those with mobility issues should note the hills and stairs involved.

What are the meeting and ending points?
The tour starts at the Palau de la Música in Barcelona and ends in Plaça de Catalunya, both centrally located and easily accessible by public transport or taxi.

To sum it up, this tour is a well-curated experience blending scenery, history, and tradition, with flexible free time and superb guides. It’s best for those who want a full, immersive day without the hassle of planning, and who truly enjoy scenic drives, authentic local cuisine, and charming towns. For travelers seeking a taste of Spain’s coast and medieval charm, it offers a memorable day out—worth every euro.