Hello,
We are opting to go to Barcelona (instead of Malaga) due to our preference to fly non-stop from the U.S.
However, DH would like to spend a few days near Barcelona (or in city limits) enjoying the Mediterranean. I love beaches with pine forests, trails and soft sand and not charmed by high rises lining the road.
I have been looking at Sitges which is about 1/2 hour away by train from Barcelona and seems to have the historic features and charm, as well as a nice seaside spot.
My question is: Are there other towns within 1/2-45 min to BCN that would fit the bill? Or, what area in Barcelona would you suggest? I see Barceloneta has beaches, but it looks like it's all high rises on the sea. I guess that would be ok, if we could easily get into the historic sights in the city.
I'm thinking of 3-4 nights in a town, and 4-5 nights in BCN. But would be fine in BCN if the beach area wasn't all beach bars.
We are fit and in our 70's and love walking, hiking, and bike riding.
All suggestions appreciated.
Posted by
Cloud
325 posts
What time of year is this? I'd avoid a beach in Barcelona.
Posted by
OP
123 posts
Oh, sorry, it'd be end of May into first week of June.
Posted by
Citizen of the World
2598 posts
Tossa de Mar has great beaches, forests just outside of town and coastal hiking paths. Tossa de Mar is 75 minutes by Express Bus from Barcelona’s Nord bus station and a little longer from BCN Airport.
Posted by
Barcelona + Sweden
4221 posts
If interested in pine forests and hiking I agree that Tossa de Mar makes for a great option, thought it is a bit built up, especially in the beach front, but it's tasteful with no "high rises" I believe. You can also look at Sant Feliu de Guixols, that is larger and less "resort-y" with more locals.
I would not suggest Sitges, for what your are looking to do, that's more of a party town with a lot of hotels/tourists.
Posted by
Walnut Creek, CA
697 posts
I see Barceloneta has beaches, but it looks like it's all high rises on the sea.
I've been to Barcelona 3 times now and the beach front in Barceloneta is NOT all high rises.
And you can get to the Barrio Gotic (historic center) very easily by a short 10-15 minute bus ride or you can walk it.
It's not all beach bars.
Do a google image search of Barceloneta Beach.
But frankly, we like Tossa Del Mar and the beach there more.
Posted by
OP
123 posts
Thanks to all for your replies. La Barceloneta sounds like a good fit with some day trips added to the mix. We will have 9 days.
Jadam
Posted by
London
1536 posts
The main locations for the beach bars are Mar Bella and Bogatell beaches, just a short walk from Barceloneta. The sand at Barceloneta is somewhat coarse, being a man made beach. Still a vibrant spot to spend some time in the day or evening.
Posted by
1 posts
Hi there!
If you're looking for a quieter, charming seaside town close to Barcelona, I'd recommend checking out Vilanova i la Geltrú. It’s about 40 minutes by train from the city and much less touristy than Sitges, but still very authentic and lovely. It has wide beaches, soft sand, and a relaxed local vibe, with pine-shaded areas and a great promenade for walking and cycling.
It’s also a cultural town with local museums, great food spots, and even cinemas if you're up for a low-key evening. Here's a helpful local guide I found that lists the cinemas in Vilanova i la Geltrú: https://www.ateneapark.com/es/que-cines-hay-en-vilanova-i-la-geltru
Plus, there are beautiful nearby trails if you enjoy walking or biking along the coast or even through Garraf Natural Park.
It might be exactly what you’re looking for: close enough to Barcelona for day trips, but far from the crowds and beach bars. Enjoy your trip!