Visit Begur: Castles, Coves, and Catalan Sunshine

Welcome to Begur, where medieval charm meets Mediterranean bliss. Dreaming of turquoise coves, dramatic cliffs, and lazy lunches by the sea? You’re in the right place. Tucked away on the Costa Brava, this coastal gem serves up everything you didn’t know you needed: golden beaches, cobbled streets, fresh seafood, and a laid-back vibe that makes you want to stay forever. Spend your day wandering the old town, hiking to the castle for panoramic views, or diving into the local food scene, ideally with a glass of wine from nearby Catalonia wineries. From sun-soaked calas to scenic coastal trails, Begur is perfect for a quick getaway or a slow weekend from Barcelona.

Best things to do in Begur Spain

Wander in the old streets

Start your Begur adventure in the old town, it’s all kinds of charming. Think colorful houses with a Caribbean twist (thank the town’s 19th-century “Indianos” for that), narrow streets made for wandering, and a few stone towers that once kept watch for pirates. Yep, actual pirates. Today, it’s more about tapas than treasure maps, but the vibe is still full of character. Grab a coffee, browse a few local shops, and soak up the kind of history that doesn’t feel like homework.

Explore the Castle and its panoramic views

Perched on a pine-dusted hill, Begur’s medieval castle dates back to the 11th century when Lord Arnust chose that spot to keep watch over pirates and invaders. Today, what’s left are charming ruins and battlements that make for epic selfies, plus jaw-dropping views over the Costa Brava coastline, hidden coves, and the Med’s deep blue stretch. The climb is short but sweet, bring your camera and comfy shoes, and reward yourself with the view

Swim at Platja de Sa Riera beach

An easy walk from the center of Begur, Sa Riera is one of the biggest and most beloved beaches in the area. Framed by cliffs and pine trees, it’s the kind of place that feels both wild and welcoming. The soft sand and calm, clear waters make it perfect for a family beach day, a morning swim, or just stretching out with a good book. There are a few cafés and restaurants nearby too, so you can grab a bite without straying far from your towel. It’s easy to see why this spot is high on any list of things to do in Begur.

Unwind at Cala Sa Tuna

Pause by the charming Cala Sa Tuna, a dreamy fishing cove just a short drive from Begur. Tucked between cliffs, this sun-kissed cove is framed by classic whitewashed fisherman’s houses and boats bobbing in turquoise water, an Instagram dream come true. It’s calm and perfect for a peaceful splash or a lazy sunset dinner

Hike the Camí de Ronda coastal path

Hit the Camí de Ronda and discover why the Begur coast steals the show. This scenic cliffside trail links coves like Sa Riera, Illa Roja, and Platja del Racó in one easy loop or out-and-back trek, about 1.6 km and 1–1.5 hours of pure Mediterranean magic. Along the way, you’ll pass the famous red-rock islet of Illa Roja and several hidden beaches, with the pine forest above the waves adding its fairytale vibe.

Attend the Indian’s Fair (Fira d’Indians) in town

Every September, Begur turns up the heat with the Fira d’Indians, a three-day street party packed with Caribbean flair and Costa Brava charm. The whole town goes white (everyone dresses in white linen), with live Cuban music, salsa dancing in the squares, and mojitos flowing like water. It’s all a nod to Begur’s 19th-century ties to Cuba, when locals who made their fortunes overseas brought back bold architecture, rich flavors, and a love for celebration. Expect craft markets, street food, rum stands, and a vibe that makes you want to dance all night.

Explore defensive towers like Torre de Mas d’en Pinc

Spot Begur’s legendary watchtowers, they’re more pirate-proof than Instagram-ready. Built between the 16th and early 17th centuries, these circular stone towers dotted the hills and hedgerows as a first line of defense against corsairs raiding the Mediterranean coast. One of the most rewarding stops is the Torre de Mas d’en Pinc, part of a farmhouse complex you can visit, it’s got a hidden gem view of Begur’s castle ruins framed by forest and sea

Best things to do around Begur Spain

Uncover a hidden wine & picnic gem

Set between the mountains and the sea, this peaceful vineyard offers a refined yet relaxed tasting experience in the heart of Empordà. Stroll through 17 hectares of vines shaped by the cool Tramuntana wind, including Garnacha, Syrah, Cabernet, Picapoll, and Malvasía. Tastings take place in a beautifully restored 17th-century masia, where you can enjoy a curated selection of three organic wines, red, rosé, and white, paired with local cheeses and olive oil. It’s an authentic, down-to-earth way to explore the region’s winemaking tradition, without the fuss.

A hidden architectural & wine retreat

Nestled quietly amid vineyards and Mediterranean forest near Palamós, this estate is where architectural artistry meets serious wine craft. Designed by the award-winning RCR Arquitectes, its bold steel-panel roof floats above a semi-underground wine cellar that feels like stepping into a stylish labyrinth, no bright lights or industrial fuss, just calm, cool tasting rooms. Here, the focus is firmly on authenticity: organic vineyards yield honest, terroir-driven pours of reds, whites, and even natural wines while you sip in harmony with the landscape. Don’t miss the elegant hermitage or the ruins of a hilltop Vila-Romà castle on the property, perfect for a reflective stroll before or after your tasting

Head to a modern winery near Begur

Just a 30-minute drive from Begur, this hillside winery offers a striking blend of architecture, sea views, and expressive wines. Set on the sunlit slopes of Les Gavarres, the estate is just a few kilometers from the Mediterranean, and you can feel that coastal influence in every glass. The modern winery, built to blend into the natural landscape, uses a gravity-flow system that lets the grapes shine with minimal intervention. Stroll through the vineyards, explore the sleek cellar, and enjoy a tasting surrounded by silence, vines, and salty air.

Drive to Palafrugell for the afternoon

Ready for a change of pace? Just a short drive from Begur, Palafrugell is the perfect spot for a laid-back afternoon. Start in the lively town center, where you can wander through local markets, sip a café amb gel on a sunny terrace, or browse artisan boutiques. If you’re into culture, pop into the Cork Museum to learn about one of the region’s most unexpected exports. Then, head toward the coast, Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc are just minutes away, offering postcard views, quiet coves, and seaside tapas. It’s the kind of afternoon that feels unplanned in the best way.

Want to keep exploring? Check out our guide to the best things to do in Palafrugell, beaches, bites, and local charm await.

Explore the medieval charm of Girona

Experience the rich history and Gothic architecture of Girona, a historic city located less than an hour’s drive from the picturesque town of Begur. Wander its ancient walls and explore the old town, including the impressive Cathedral and the Church of Sant Feliu. Take a stroll along the Onyar River and enjoy colorful houses reflected in the water. Perfect for a day trip, visiting Girona adds depth to your Costa Brava itinerary. With a thriving gastronomic scene, this city in the province of Girona is an excellent place to indulge in traditional Catalan cuisine after a morning of sightseeing.

Dive into our guide to the best things to do in Girona!

Escape to the artistic town of Cadaqués

While a bit farther from Begur, around 53 miles or 90-minute coastal drive, Cadaqués is one of those places that’s absolutely worth the journey. This postcard-perfect fishing village, once a favorite of Salvador Dalí, still draws in artists and dreamers with its whitewashed houses, cobbled lanes, and peaceful coves. Spend the afternoon wandering its quiet streets, lounging by the sea, or heading just a bit further to explore the rugged beauty of Cap de Creus Natural Park. With its creative soul and stunning coastal views, Cadaqués is a magical stop that adds something special to your Costa Brava itinerary.

Falling for the Costa Brava? Here is our guide to the top things to do in Cadaqués, it’s worth the detour.

Good to Know before visiting Begur in Spain