The Costa Brava is home to five fishing villages that are perfect for a stay combining sea, history and gastronomy.
LWith their turquoise coves and charming little harbours, these preserved places still tell the maritime story of Catalonia through their traditions, spectacular landscapes and cuisine shaped by the sea.
Perfect for a coastal escape, they invite visitors to follow the Camí de Ronda, savour local specialities and discover a more authentic atmosphere, far from the busiest seaside resorts. Here are five of the most beautiful fishing villages on the Costa Brava to visit.
Cadaqués: the white pearl of Cap de Creus
It is impossible to speak of the most beautiful fishing villages on the Costa Brava without starting with Cadaqués. Nestled on the Mediterranean at the heart of the spectacular Cap de Creus landscape, this village captivates visitors with its white houses, cobbled streets and incomparable light. Its maritime identity remains strong, even if its fame is also linked to Salvador Dalí, who helped bring this setting to the world’s attention. Cadaqués is the perfect village for travellers seeking a blend of Mediterranean charm, culture and exceptional views.
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Calella de Palafrugell: preserved Catalan charm
Calella de Palafrugell perfectly embodies the image of a Catalan fishing village. Along the waterfront stand low white houses, colourful boats and small coves that instantly invite visitors to slow down. The atmosphere is elegant without feeling staged, with a genuine sense of authenticity that explains its popularity. It is also one of the villages most often cited among the most picturesque on the Costa Brava, particularly for its historic ties to fishing and the beauty of its coastline.
El Port de la Selva: the raw and discreet Costa Brava
More understated than other seaside resorts, El Port de la Selva has preserved a deeply maritime spirit. Also located in the Cap de Creus area, it attracts travellers looking for a village that feels quieter, more rugged and more natural. Its harbour, small beaches and rocky surroundings give it a strong personality, quite different from the more polished postcard scenes further south along the coast. It is an ideal destination for discovering a more discreet Costa Brava, still shaped by its past as a fishing village.
L’Escala: famous anchovies and living traditions
L’Escala clearly deserves its place in this selection thanks to a history closely tied to the sea and fishing traditions. The village is often associated with the maritime culture of the Costa Brava, particularly through its culinary identity and heritage as a fishing port. Its lively seafront, beaches and vibrant character make it a popular stop for travellers looking to combine local heritage with seaside pleasures.
Tossa de Mar: medieval walls and secret coves
Tossa de Mar stands out with a silhouette that is instantly recognisable, thanks to its fortified old town overlooking the sea. Although its reputation now extends beyond that of a simple fishing port, its relationship with the Mediterranean remains central to its charm. The meeting of medieval heritage, small beaches and a maritime atmosphere makes it one of the most beautiful villages to visit on the Costa Brava. Tossa de Mar is particularly appealing to travellers who want to combine swimming, walking and historic character in the same setting.
