Costa Brava Day Tour with Boat Trip from Barcelona

If you’re looking to escape the hustle of Barcelona for a day and soak in some of the most beautiful coastal scenery Catalonia has to offer, a Costa Brava day tour with boat trip might just be your perfect getaway. This tour promises a blend of charming villages, scenic boat rides, and plenty of time to relax or explore on your own. From what we gather, it’s a popular choice—rated 4.5 out of 5 by over 280 travelers—and recommended by almost everyone who’s taken it.

What really catches our eye about this experience is how it combines guided visits with free time for personal discovery and leisure, all wrapped up in a manageable 9-hour window. Plus, the inclusion of a boat trip along the coast adds a fun, immersive element that many tours don’t offer. That said, a possible drawback is that some might find the day a bit packed, especially if you prefer relaxed, unstructured days.

This tour is ideal for anyone wanting a day trip that hits the highlights without the hassle of planning transportation and logistics. Families, couples, or solo travelers who enjoy coastal scenery, quaint towns, and a touch of history will likely find it well worth the price of about $68 per person.

Key Points

• Charming Villages: Visit both Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar, each with its own unique character.
• Scenic Boat Ride: Enjoy a one-way cruise that offers breathtaking views of the coastline.
• Guided and Free Time: Combine organized tours with personal exploration, perfect for those who like structure but also freedom.
• Comfortable Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi, making the journey pleasant.
• Value for Money: For around $68, the tour includes transport, guided visits, and a boat ride—adding up to a pretty satisfying experience.
• Good for Most Travelers: Mostly suitable for those able to walk and handle some time on their feet, with optional lighthouse visits.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Point and First Stop: Lloret de Mar

The adventure kicks off around 8:30 am from a central location in Barcelona, where the bus departs for the Costa Brava. The journey takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Upon arriving in Lloret de Mar, you’ll have about an hour to explore this lively seaside town.

What’s special about Lloret? It’s the main tourist hub of Costa Brava, blending a vibrant atmosphere with remnants of its maritime past. Walk along the beach promenade for sweeping views of the beachfront and take in the lively street scenes. You might find the architecture, like the Saint Roma church, quite interesting, as some reviews highlight its aesthetic significance.

Expect to find a range of shops—from trendy brands to beach bazaars—perfect for some quick shopping or just soaking up the local vibe. As one reviewer put it, “We enjoyed the colorful and dynamic streets. The beach was lovely, and the shopping was diverse.”

Scenic Cruise to Tossa de Mar

Around 11:30 am, your group will board a boat for a one-hour cruise along the coast to Tossa de Mar. This is often highlighted as a real highlight. Travelers rave about the warm, clear waters and the opportunity to see the coastline from a different perspective. Plus, many mention how fun and relaxing the boat ride is.

Exploring Tossa de Mar: The Pearl of Costa Brava

Arriving in Tossa de Mar around 12:15 pm, you’ll have approximately 4 hours here, which includes a guided walk through the old town and free time.

Tossa de Mar’s charm lies in its beautifully preserved Old Town, Vila Vella, which is listed as an artistic-historic monument. You’ll find cobbled streets, ancient walls, and delightful views from the lighthouse. A walk along the fortified perimeter up to the lighthouse offers stunning vistas of the rugged coastline—definitely a photo opportunity.

Many reviews mention how beautiful and well-preserved the village feels, with some noting how the town combines history with lively beachside fun. “Tossa de Mar is a lovely town with clear waters, a historic fortress, and a great vibe,” one traveler said.

You’ll also have time to enjoy a leisurely lunch, shop around, or even take a quick dip in the waters, as some guests did. One reviewer shared, “We had a fun swim with the fish, the water was warm and clean.”

Return Journey

After your visit, the bus will pick you up to head back to Barcelona, wrapping up the day around 5:30 pm. The smooth, air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi makes the return comfortable and allows you to relax after a full day of sightseeing.

What We Like About This Tour

The guidance and organization are key strengths. As some reviews highlight, the guides are knowledgeable and helpful—one even called their guide Monica “fantastic.” The scenic boat ride is often praised as a fun, relaxing way to see the coast, adding an extra layer of enjoyment that many day trips lack.

The balance of guided tours and free time lets you explore at your own pace or simply relax on the beach. Plus, the value is evident when you consider the cost covers transport, guided visits, and a boat trip—roughly $68 for a full day out.

A couple of minor points to keep in mind:

While most reviews are glowing, some travelers found Lloret a bit too touristy or felt the day was a tad long. For those who prefer unstructured day trips or quiet beaches, this might be a bit busy. Also, food is not included, so you’ll want to plan for lunch on your own, although there are plenty of options in both villages.

Who Will Enjoy This Experience?

This tour is perfect for travelers who want to see the highlights of Costa Brava without the hassle of planning transport or guides. It works well for those who enjoy a mix of scenic sightseeing, charming towns, and ocean views. It’s especially suited for visitors staying in Barcelona who want a full but manageable day away from the city.

Families, couples, or solo travelers who like a balance between guided activities and free time will appreciate the structure and flexibility. If you love beaches, beautiful villages, and a boat cruise, you’ll find this trip hits all those marks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included. You’ll have time to buy lunch in Tossa de Mar or bring snacks along.

How long is the boat ride?
The boat ride from Lloret de Mar to Tossa de Mar lasts about an hour, and it’s often considered a highlight for the scenic views and fun experience.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from Estación de Autobuses Barcelona Nord, located at Carrer de Nàpols, 68, Barcelona. The start time is 8:30 am.

Are the guided visits free or extra?
The guided visits in Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar are included in the price, with guides providing commentary throughout the day.

How much time do I get in each village?
You’ll have about one hour in Lloret de Mar and roughly four hours in Tossa de Mar, including the guided tour and free time.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, children comfortable with walking and boat rides should enjoy the day. Watching for seasickness or long periods of walking is wise.

Final Thoughts

This Costa Brava day trip offers a well-rounded experience—combining scenic coastal views, historic towns, and relaxing beach time—all in one day. The guided visits ensure you see the highlights, while the boat cruise adds a touch of adventure. The overall cost provides good value, especially considering the included transportation, guides, and scenic cruise.

If your idea of a perfect day involves charming seaside villages, beautiful scenery, and a bit of history, this tour could be just right. It’s best suited for those who enjoy organized outings but also appreciate some free time to explore on their own.

For travelers seeking a stress-free way to see Costa Brava’s most photogenic spots without renting a car or planning logistics, this tour is a strong contender. Just bring your camera, some snacks, and a bathing suit if you want to take full advantage of the beaches.

Happy travels, and I hope you find this day trip as enjoyable and scenic as many others have!