Begur Spain offers a perfect blend of historical charm and stunning Mediterranean beaches that make it an ideal Costa Brava destination. Located 40km east of Girona and 135km northeast of Barcelona, this hillside town provides convenient access to multiple pristine coves while maintaining its authentic Catalan character.
Nestled 200 meters above sea level, Begur combines medieval architecture, excellent dining, and coastal activities into a destination that appeals to both culture enthusiasts and beach lovers.
Planning your visit to Begur requires understanding its seasonal variations. Peak season (July-August) brings warm temperatures (25-30°C) ideal for swimming but also higher prices and crowds. Additionally, shoulder seasons (May-June and September) offer pleasant weather (20-25°C) with significantly reduced visitor numbers and accommodation costs. Winter months (November-March) see many restaurants and shops close, though accommodations remain available at substantially lower rates.
Begur Spain Town Center Highlights
Visiting Begur’s medieval castle should top your sightseeing priorities, with the ruins offering spectacular coastal views. The 10-minute uphill walk from Plaça de la Vila (main square) leads past several viewpoints with benches for resting. In fact, morning visits provide clearer visibility for photos of the coastline stretching from Aiguablava to Sa Riera. Meanwhile, the town’s weekly market occurs every Wednesday morning year-round, featuring local produce, crafts, and clothing.
The historic centre contains several notable architectural highlights within a compact, walkable area. During summer evenings (July-August), the tourist office offers guided walking tours in English (€8 per person, 90 minutes) covering the town’s history. Subsequently, visit Casa Pere Roger and Casa Puig i Puig on Carrer Pi i Ralló to see excellent examples of “Indiano” architecture—colonial-style mansions built by Begur residents who made fortunes in Cuba. Moreover, the tourist information center in Plaça Esteve i Cruañas provides detailed maps and beach transport schedules.
Begur’s unique shopping opportunities focus on local artisans rather than international brands. These independent boutiques, concentrated along Carrer Pi i Ralló and Carrer Bonaventura Carreras, offer handcrafted ceramics, textiles, and gourmet products. However, most shops close from 2pm-5pm for siesta, reopening until 8pm or later during summer. Meanwhile, ATMs are available in the town center, though smaller businesses may have minimum card payment requirements or prefer cash transactions.
Where to Stay in Begur Costa Brava
Finding good accommodation in Begur Spain requires booking 4-6 months ahead for summer visits. For my stay, rental apartments offered the best value, averaging €90-150/night depending on location and amenities. Besides saving money, having kitchen facilities helped reduce food costs. Furthermore, agencies like Costa Brava Villas and Begur Holiday Rentals offer reliable options with good cancellation policies. Additionally, properties in the El Salminar area provide the best balance of price and proximity to town.
For those preferring hotels, Cluc Hotel stands out as my top recommendation. Located at Carrer Ventura Sabater 1, rates range from €120-180 per night including breakfast. Meanwhile, their central location puts you within 5 minutes’ walk of Begur’s best restaurants and shops. Additionally, they offer free parking for guests—a significant advantage in Begur’s limited parking situation. However, their 12 rooms book quickly, so reserve at least 3 months ahead for summer stays.
Hotel Aiguablava (seafront) or La Bionda (adults-only) are excellent alternatives. During shoulder seasons (May, June, September), rates drop by 30-40% while weather remains pleasant. Consequently, these months offer better value while avoiding summer crowds. The Hotel Aiguablava gives free rides to beaches that are close by. Nevertheless, confirm whether your chosen accommodation has air conditioning, as summer nights can be warm. However, most accommodations include free WiFi, though connection speed varies throughout the area.
Best Beaches Near Begur Spain
These are my personal favourites, pretty much in order (based upon the amount of time I spent on each one!)
Sa Riera Beach – Begur’s Largest Beach
Sa Riera features Begur’s largest beach (300m long) with comprehensive facilities including showers, toilets, lifeguards, and beach chair rentals (€6/day). This Blue Flag beach offers the most parking options (€3/hour) with approximately 200 spaces, though these fill by 11am in high season. Meanwhile, the beachfront restaurants include Can Nasi and El Racollet, serving fresh seafood at moderate prices (€12-20 for main dishes). Consequently, families with children appreciate this beach for its gentle slope, sandy bottom, and complete amenities.
The coastal path from Sa Riera connects to both Illa Roja (naturist beach) and Pals Beach via well-marked trails. During morning hours (before 10am), this path offers excellent photography opportunities with fewer hikers. Additionally, water sports rentals operate directly on the beach, with paddleboards (€15/hour), kayaks (€12/hour), and snorkeling equipment (€8/day) available from June through September. Nevertheless, weekends see significantly higher visitor numbers, making weekday visits preferable. However, this beach maintains good swimming conditions even when light winds affect smaller coves nearby.
What makes Sa Riera particularly convenient is its accessibility. Regular bus service runs from Begur town center (€2 one-way) with departures every 30 minutes during summer (9am-8pm). In contrast to smaller coves, Sa Riera has three restaurants directly on the beachfront, plus several cafés within a 5-minute walk. Then again, prices are typically 15-20% higher than equivalent establishments in Begur town. Furthermore, free public drinking water fountains and foot-washing stations are available at both beach entrances. Additionally, a small supermarket 200m from the beach sells essentials at reasonable prices compared to beach kiosks.
Tamariu Beach – Family-Friendly Cove
Visiting Tamariu beach provides excellent swimming in a sheltered, horseshoe-shaped cove with crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkelling. This beach offers well-maintained facilities including showers, toilets and lifeguards during summer months. Nevertheless, parking is limited (€2.50/hour) and fills quickly, so arrive before 9am in high season or consider the hourly bus service from Begur town center (€2 one-way).
The promenade features several quality seafood restaurants including Es Dofi and Restaurant Rodondo, both serving excellent fresh catch at midrange prices (€15-25 for main courses). During summer evenings, booking is essential at least two days in advance for waterfront tables. Meanwhile, Kayak Center Tamariu offers hourly rentals (€15) and guided excursions (€35) to explore nearby caves and coves. Furthermore, the calm, shallow waters make this beach particularly suitable for families with young children.
Water temperature in Tamariu reaches 22-24°C during July-August, with the swimming season typically running from May through October. The beach has fine, golden sand and measures approximately 180 meters long, making it less crowded than larger beaches nearby. At the same time, the surrounding pine forest provides natural shade in certain areas during hot afternoons. However, beach chairs and umbrellas for rent (€5-15/day) are limited, so bringing your own is recommended during peak season. Additionally, the beach features a small playground suitable for children under 10, located at the eastern end near the promenade.
Cala d’Aigua Xelida – Dramatic Rocky Cove
This spectacular cove features dramatic rock formations and crystal-clear waters ideal for experienced snorkelers. Located 3.5km from Begur center, it has no lifeguards or facilities. Meanwhile, parking is extremely limited (20 spaces), so arrive early or hike 15 minutes from the Tamariu bus stop.
The steep approach requires good fitness with 95 steps down to the water. During high tide, most visitors use rock platforms for sunbathing. Additionally, water shoes are essential due to rocky entry and sea urchins. Meanwhile, water depth drops quickly, making this unsuitable for children. However, underwater visibility exceeds 20 meters, offering excellent snorkeling.
No restaurants exist at this cove, so bring supplies. During midday (11am-3pm), sunlight creates beautiful illumination in underwater caves. Nevertheless, limited access means it rarely feels crowded even in peak season. Additionally, avoid visiting during eastern winds when conditions can become rough.
Platja d’Aiguablava
Aiguablava Beach features fine golden sand and shallow, turquoise waters perfect for families with young children. During summer months, kayak rentals (€12/hour) and paddleboards (€15/hour) are available directly on the beach. At Hotel Aigua Blava, you can eat on the patio with wide views all around while having good food from the area. Lunch costs about €18-28 for a main dish.
Meanwhile, the Aiguablava public parking lot (€2.50/hour) fills by 10:30am in July-August, making morning arrival advisable. Additionally, this Blue Flag beach provides lifeguards, showers, and toilet facilities from June through September.
Sa Tuna
Sa Tuna cove offers crystal-clear waters ideal for snorkeling, with rocky entry points and limited sand area. In particular, this small beach gets crowded by mid-morning in summer, so arrive before 9am to secure parking (€5 for half-day). Also, the Restaurant at Hostal Sa Tuna provides excellent seafood with tables overlooking the water, though reservations are essential during peak periods.
Best Restaurants in Begur Spain
The culinary scene in Begur Spain offers exceptional quality with options for every budget. Restaurant Turandot (Carrer Bonaventura Carreras 12) tops my list of best restaurants in Begur Spain, specializing in seafood with their salt-baked sea bass (€28) being outstanding. Indeed, they’re open 7pm-11pm Tuesday-Sunday, closed Mondays, with most mains ranging €18-32. Furthermore, reservations are essential at least 3 days in advance during summer months (call +34 972 622 038).
For casual dining, Can Climent Platillos (Carrer Pi i Ralló 8) offers excellent value with tapas portions ranging €5-12. During busy periods, arrive before 1pm for lunch or 7:30pm for dinner to avoid waiting. Meanwhile, their menu changes seasonally, with seafood tapas being consistently excellent. Then again, they offer a good selection of local wines by the glass (€4-7). However, seating is limited to about 30 people, making weeknight dining easier than weekends.
Casa Juanita provides the best option for authentic local cuisine at moderate prices (€40-50 per person including wine). Located at Carrer Vera 51, they serve traditional Catalan dishes including exceptional suquet de peix (fish stew). On weekdays, they also give you a deal with three meals for €25. Meanwhile, their terrace offers pleasant outdoor dining in summer. Moreover, they’re closed Wednesdays year-round and Tuesdays during low season. Consequently, this restaurant draws both tourists and locals, indicating its consistent quality and authenticity.
What to See Near Begur Girona Spain
Exploring Begur’s castle should top your sightseeing list, offering 360-degree views across Costa Brava. The medieval fortress is accessible via a 15-minute uphill walk from town center, with no entrance fee. In fact, sunset visits provide spectacular photo opportunities with fewer crowds. Meanwhile, the historic center features well-preserved colonial mansions built by returning emigrants from Cuba in the 19th century. Nevertheless, comfortable walking shoes are essential as streets are steep and cobbled throughout the old town.
The medieval city of Girona makes an excellent day trip, located 45 minutes by car from Begur. The walled city features one of Europe’s best-preserved Jewish Quarters (Call Jueu) and an impressive Gothic cathedral with the world’s widest Gothic nave (23 meters). During high season, arrive before 10am to avoid crowds and secure parking (Plaça Catalunya underground car park, €2.50/hour). Meanwhile, the Game of Thrones filming locations attract fans year-round, with several scenes shot on the cathedral steps and narrow streets. Furthermore, the tourist office offers detailed walking maps for self-guided tours.
Coastal villages like Calella de Palafrugell and Cadaqués deserve half-day explorations when staying in Begur Spain. During summer months, the botanical gardens at Cap Roig (€8 entrance) combine Mediterranean plantings with sculpture and coastal views. Subsequently, the Salvador Dalà House-Museum in Port Lligat (near Cadaqués) provides insight into the artist’s life (€14 entrance, must book online at least 3 days ahead). However, drive times increase significantly in July-August, so allow extra travel time and depart early. Additionally, medieval Pals (15 minutes from Begur) offers excellent dining options and artisan shopping in a beautifully preserved setting.
How to Get to Begur Costa Brava
Renting a car is essential for exploring Begur and the surrounding beaches. From Barcelona Airport, the drive takes approximately 1.5 hours via the AP-7 motorway (toll road, around €8.50). During summer, book rental cars at least 1 month in advance through Rentalcars.com, selecting full coverage insurance. Meanwhile, choose compact cars (like Seat Ibiza) for navigating narrow coastal roads and tight parking spaces. Furthermore, fuel costs for a week of coastal exploring average €60-80. Nevertheless, free parking is available at the municipal car park on the edge of town, a 7-minute walk from the center.
The best alternative to driving is the SARFA bus service from Barcelona to Begur, which runs 3-5 times daily depending on season (€18 one-way, 2.5 hours). During summer months, book tickets 2-3 days in advance through their website. Additionally, once in Begur, local buses connect to beaches during summer (€2 one-way), though service ends relatively early (last return usually 7pm). Consequently, taxis become necessary for evening beach dining, costing €10-15 per journey depending on the beach. However, taxi availability is limited, so book return journeys in advance.
For international visitors, the most convenient airports are Barcelona-El Prat (120km) and Girona-Costa Brava (45km). During summer, Girona receives direct flights from multiple European destinations and offers much faster access to Begur. Meanwhile, private transfers from either airport can be arranged through companies like Suntransfers.com (€120-180 from Barcelona, €65-90 from Girona). Nevertheless, having your own transport remains advantageous for beach-hopping. However, once in Begur town center, everything is walkable within 10-15 minutes.
Practical Tips for Visiting Begur Spain
The best months to visit Begur are May-June and September-October (20-25°C) with 30-40% lower accommodation prices and fewer crowds. Meanwhile, sea temperatures remain comfortable (20-22°C) for swimming. Furthermore, rental cars are easier to secure, and many restaurants offer value fixed-price menus (€15-25).
Mobile coverage is excellent in town but can weaken at beaches. WiFi is widely available (30-50Mbps). Meanwhile, download the “Costa Brava Beaches” app for offline beach information. Nevertheless, carrying a physical map remains useful for areas with limited signal.
Medical services include a health center (CAP Begur) on Carrer Francesc Forgas (8am-8pm summer hours) with the nearest hospital in Palamós (25 minutes away). Additionally, pharmacies operate on a rotation system for after-hours service. Meanwhile, beaches have lifeguards (10am-6pm) during summer with flag warning systems. However, travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage is strongly recommended due to difficult beach access points.
Our Destinations: Your Inspiration!
PS — Planning a Vacation Soon? Use My Proven Booking System!
My personal travel experiences have shaped this list of reliable resources I use consistently. In fact, by utilizing these links, you’ll simultaneously support Softfootprints independent travel journalism while paying nothing extra yourself.
1. Omio
This platform searches hundreds of airlines worldwide for optimal flights. As a result, you’ll never miss route options or deals.
2. Booking.com
Finding perfect accommodations becomes effortless with their extensive inventory. In addition, customer reviews help me choose properties confidently.
3. Rentalcars
When exploring destinations, having your own vehicle provides unmatched flexibility. Not only do I always select full coverage, but I also prefer reliable companies like Alamo, Hertz, or Sixt.
4. Viator and Get Your Guide
These complementary platforms help me discover exceptional local experiences. Similarly, both offer easy booking policies. However, I check both since their inventory varies by destination.
5. EKTA Insurance
International travel protection should never be overlooked. Subsequently, their coverage against illness, injuries, theft, and cancellations gives me peace of mind. Meanwhile, their 24-hour assistance ensures help is always available when needed.
The coverage options they offer include tailored packages with round-the-clock emergency assistance. Of course, this makes them ideal for international travellers.
