From Barcelona: Wine Tasting & Tapas + MARIMURTRA Garden + Blanes

Experience the Best of the Costa Brava from Barcelona
This 7-hour journey takes you from the heart of Barcelona to the stunning landscapes and seaside charms of the Costa Brava. For around $453, you’ll visit top-tier eco-friendly wineries, explore the spectacular Marimurtra Botanical Garden, and enjoy free time in the charming town of Blanes. The tour departs at 10 a.m., with a private, air-conditioned vehicle, making it a comfortable way to explore this picturesque part of Spain.

What we love most is how this tour combines excellent wine paired with delicious tapas, offering a taste of local craftsmanship and sustainability. The second highlight is the Marimurtra Garden, perched high above the sea, boasting thousands of plant species and panoramic views that make for incredible photo opportunities.

A potential consideration is that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point. Also, because the day is packed with activities, it’s best suited for those who enjoy a mix of cultural, natural, and culinary experiences without feeling rushed.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate authentic local flavors, love stunning scenery, and want to combine a wine day with some cultural sightseeing. It’s ideal for those looking to explore beyond Barcelona’s city streets and into its scenic countryside and coast.

Key Points

• All-in-one Experience: Combines wine tasting, botanical gardens, and seaside town exploration.
• Eco-Friendly Focus: Supports sustainable wineries that prioritize ecological practices.
• Scenic Views: Over 4,000 plant species and broad coastline vistas at Marimurtra Garden.
• Flexible Free Time: Ample hours in Blanes for beaches, markets, and local dining.
• Comfort & Convenience: Private, air-conditioned transport with a guide fluent in multiple languages.
• No Hotel Pickup: Requires independent transportation to the meeting point.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

Clear and Concise Overview

This tour hits multiple highlights of the Costa Brava in just one day, making it an excellent choice for travelers who want to maximize their time. The cost of $453.63 per person reflects a premium experience, but one that offers significant value when considering what’s included: wine tastings, entrance fees, and guided insights. Running for about seven hours, it’s designed to be a full yet manageable day out, with a departure at 10 a.m. and return around 5 p.m.

The Wine Tasting & Tapas Stop

The journey begins with a visit to a carefully curated selection of eco-friendly wineries. You’ll taste top-quality wines, thoughtfully paired with delicious tapas that complement each sip perfectly. The focus on sustainability isn’t just a marketing gimmick; it’s a genuine effort to reduce ecological impact and preserve regional wine craftsmanship.

Travelers often comment on the quality of the wines and the care put into the pairing. One reviewer called the experience “MAGICAL,” emphasizing how the hosts went above and beyond—even picking them up from a luxury hotel—which hints at the attentive service and personalized touch. The tasting is a wonderful opportunity to learn about local winemaking traditions and support regional producers committed to eco-friendly practices.

Marimurtra Botanical Garden: A Natural Wonder

Next is the visit to Jardi Botanic Marimurtra, one of the Mediterranean’s most stunning botanical gardens. Perched above the sea cliffs of Blanes, it offers spectacular panoramic views and a lush collection of over 4,000 plant species, many exotic or ancient.

We loved the way the garden combines natural beauty with scientific curiosity—the variety of plants and the age-old specimens make it a truly special site. The garden’s location makes it more than just a botanical collection; it’s an experience of visual drama, with cliffs dropping dramatically into the sea below. Expect to spend about an hour here, enough time to wander, take photos, and soak in the views.

Free Time in Blanes

The highlight of the afternoon is the three-hour free period in Blanes, giving you the chance to explore at your own pace. This seaside town boasts beautiful beaches, a vibrant marina, and a historic old town. Whether you want to relax on the sand, stroll through markets, or sample fresh seafood, Blanes provides a perfect setting.

Travelers have praised Blanes’ lively atmosphere, with one reviewer mentioning how the town’s markets and traditional festivals create a lively Mediterranean vibe. The opportunity to enjoy local cafes or simply relax by the water makes this free time invaluable.

Practical Details and Comfort

The entire experience is conducted in English, with guides fluent in other languages such as German, Spanish, or Russian, increasing accessibility. Transport is by private, air-conditioned minivan or taxi, ensuring comfort during the roughly two-hour scenic drive.

While hotel pickup isn’t included, the meeting point is near good public transportation options, making it easy to join from most centrally located accommodations. The tour limits group size to 20 travelers, keeping it intimate and allowing for personalized attention from your guide.

Authentic and Balanced Experience

This tour offers a good balance of guided tastings, natural beauty, and free exploration. The reviews praise not only the knowledgeable guides but also the effort to create a memorable, authentic experience. The fact that most reviews are perfect five-star ratings speaks to the high quality and satisfaction of past travelers.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re someone who appreciates quality wine and local flavors but also wants a scenic escape from city life, this is a great pick. It’s perfect for culture lovers, nature enthusiasts, and those eager to experience small-town charm along with a taste of regional sustainability.

Those looking for a relaxing yet enriching day outside Barcelona’s hustle will also find this tour a good fit. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy guided experiences that add context to their sightseeing, rather than just ticking boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point.

What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers transfers in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, wine tastings and tapas, entry to the Marimurtra Garden, and the winery entrance fee.

How long is the free time in Blanes?
You’ll have about two and a half hours to explore Blanes at your own pace, whether that’s relaxing on the beach or visiting local markets.

Are drinks served to minors?
No, alcoholic drinks are only for travelers 18 and above. Minors will be served non-alcoholic beverages.

What language is the tour conducted in?
The primary language is English, but guides are also fluent in German, Spanish, and Russian.

How strenuous is the tour?
It’s fairly relaxed; most activities involve walking around gardens and town, with ample time to sit and enjoy the scenery.

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

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

What’s the best way to prepare?
Bring comfortable shoes, your camera, and an appetite for local wines and tapas. Also, consider how you’ll get to the meeting point since pickup isn’t included.

In summary, this tour from Barcelona offers an engaging blend of wine, nature, and seaside charm. It’s a well-rounded experience for those who want a taste of regional culture and scenery in one manageable day. With knowledgeable guides, stunning views, and a focus on sustainability, it delivers genuine value for travelers eager to go beyond the city limits and explore the heart of Catalonia’s natural and culinary treasures.