Do you know Tossa de Mar? For me, this place is one of the most beautiful resorts on the Costa Brava, mainly because it’s not overly touristy. If you’re looking for tips on what to see in Tossa de Mar, the well-preserved medieval fortified town of Vila Vella stands right above the sea; it’s considered the only surviving fortified medieval settlement on the Catalan coast.
Tossa de Mar
However, you can admire much more in and around the town, such as the historic center, beaches, and coastal paths with views of the typically wild Costa Brava. I’ve prepared 9 places for you that I recommend seeing here, including accommodation tips. At the end, I also mention transport tips on how to get here without a car, although having your own or a rented car is always a great choice in my opinion, so you don’t have to rely solely on public transport.
Accommodation in Tossa de Mar
APARTMENT SEA VIEWS on the BEACH
If you’re looking for an apartment in a good location, with a sea view and within walking distance of the center, this is one of the best options in Tossa de Mar.
- Great ratings and a sea view
- Close to the historic center and at a good price
Hotel Windsor Tossa – Adults Only (16+)
In the three-star category, I rank this hotel among the best-rated in town.
- Excellent location and ratings with a pool – I’m happy to recommend this hotel!
- Look forward to a quieter atmosphere and a high-quality buffet breakfast
- Located close to the beach and the center, making it ideal for a comfortable stay
- You’ll especially appreciate this in the summer, when there are no families with small children around
Gran Hotel Reymar 4 Sup
If you want to plan a luxury stay in Tossa de Mar with a sea view, this is probably the best choice in my opinion. The hotel stands right by Mar Menuda beach.
- A luxury hotel right on the coast – great for romantic long weekends for two
- I recommend choosing a room with a sea view
Gran Hotel Reymar 4 Sup
Accommodation in Tossa de Mar on the map:
What to see in Tossa de Mar
1. Vila Vella
The biggest attraction in the town of Tossa de Mar. The fortified old town from the 13th century stands right by the sea, and it’s the reason we came here too. It’s worth planning plenty of time to walk through it properly. You can look forward to narrow stone streets, small houses, staircases, passages, and views of the bay.
2. The Walls and Towers of Vila Vella
The walls themselves are an experience on their own, which is why I’m mentioning them separately. It’s best to walk along them in the high season during the morning or early evening, when the town is less hot and the light is great for photos. Among the most famous towers are Torre d’en Joanàs, the clock tower at the entrance, and the Codolar tower above the beach of the same name.
3. Es Codolar Beach and its backdrop under the walls
As another tip for what to see in Tossa de Mar, I have to mention this beach, which is the most beautiful of the city beaches in my opinion. As I wrote in the previous tip, you’ll find it right under the tower of the same name. This small beach hidden behind Vila Vella thrilled us more than the main city beach. It’s more intimate, tucked between the rocks and the walls, and it’s also one of the most photographed spots in town.
4. Far de Tossa Lighthouse / What to see in Tossa de Mar
The lighthouse stands on the highest point of the promontory, above Vila Vella. The current building dates back to 1917 and also serves as a small exhibition space dedicated to maritime signals and the history of lighthouses on the Costa Brava. Even if you don’t go inside, it’s worth coming here for the panorama of the coast.
5. Sa Roqueta District / What to see in Tossa de Mar
The small fishing district right next to the walls and Codolar beach is one of the most authentic places in Tossa de Mar. It was established when the settlement expanded beyond the walls in the 16th century and still maintains its original Mediterranean character. I love the local low houses, narrow streets, flowers at every step, and the calmer atmosphere compared to the main promenade. It’s the perfect place for a morning cardio walk.
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6. Camí de Ronda – coastal path and viewpoints over the sea
Do you love coastal paths too? If you want to see Tossa de Mar in all its beauty, set aside at least 1-2 hours for the coastal trail. The official southern route starts from the tourist information center towards Codolar. It’s short, practically effortless, leads above the cliffs, and offers some of the best views of the rugged coastline.
7. Roman Villa Els Ametllers / What to see in Tossa de Mar
The most interesting place if you want to learn a bit about history. The Els Ametllers archaeological site is one of the most important Roman villas of the former province of Tarraco. The preserved remains show that Tossa de Mar wasn’t just a fishing settlement, but also an important place back in Roman times, when grapes were grown and wine was exported from here.
8. Platja Gran
The main beach and the most famous spot in Tossa de Mar. For swimming, this beach is comfortable and easily accessible for both locals and tourists staying right in town, making it the best choice if you want to combine a morning in the city center with an afternoon on the beach. The official tourist website describes it as one of the most photographed scenes on the Costa Brava. Personally, we like the panorama with Codolar beach much more.
9. Platja de la Mar Menuda / What to see in Tossa de Mar
According to the locals, this is the most beautiful city beach. It’s smaller than Platja Gran and feels calmer. It’s popular for its clear water and good facilities. It has a Blue Flag and is suitable for those who want accessible swimming without having to travel outside the center.
Transport to Tossa de Mar
You can get to Tossa de Mar in three ways:
By air to Barcelona
If you want as little stress as possible, I recommend a direct bus from the airport. If the timing doesn’t work for you, combine a train to Blanes + a bus. Tossa de Mar is about 107 km from Barcelona airport, so a direct bus is the most sensible option for most travelers.
By air to Girona
If you’re lucky enough to find cheaper flights to Girona and don’t necessarily want to visit Barcelona as well, this is the ideal option. Tossa de Mar is about a 1-hour bus ride from Girona, and there’s a direct bus. Connections run daily. All you need to do is coordinate your arrival time with the bus departure.
- The operator is Sagalés, and the route is 613 Aeroport de Girona – Lloret de Mar – Tossa de Mar
Car rental – your own car
In my opinion, the easiest option is to rent a car at the airport in Barcelona or Girona and arrive here on your own. Ideal for those of you who want to explore more places on the Costa Brava and not just stay in Tossa de Mar.
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