From Barcelona: Costa Brava Day Tour with Boat Trip

Traveling from Barcelona to the Costa Brava by tour can be a fantastic way to see some of the region’s most captivating villages and coastlines without the hassle of planning every detail yourself. I’ve looked into this popular day trip offered by Barcelona Holiday, and it seems to strike a great balance between sightseeing, comfort, and affordability. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone looking to squeeze a bit more of Spain’s rugged coast into your itinerary, this tour might be worth considering.

What really caught our attention about this experience are the stunning coastal views from the boat trip and the well-curated stops at Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar. Both towns are packed with character—Lloret with its lively promenade and modernist architecture, and Tossa with its medieval charm and excellent seafood. One thing to keep in mind is that the day’s schedule is quite packed, so if you’re after a super relaxed, slow-paced day, this might feel a little rushed. It’s best suited for travelers who want a comprehensive taste of Costa Brava in a single day.

This tour offers excellent value for the price—around $65 per person—especially considering the included boat ride, guided visits, and transportation. If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and enjoy a mix of guided and independent exploration, it’s a solid choice. It’s not perfect, but it does a nice job of showcasing the highlights of this stunning stretch of coast.

This experience made our article of Barcelona’s 15 Top Boat Tours & Cruises (With Prices).

Key Points

• Comprehensive day trip covering both Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar with scenic boat cruise
• Value for money, including transportation, guides, and boat tickets
• Expert guides who provide insightful commentary and support during the tour
• Stunning coastal scenery from the boat, with cliffs and coves that really wow
• Flexible free time in both towns for explorations, shopping, or dining
• Weather-dependent boat service, which can be canceled if seas are rough

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Breakdown of the Experience

When considering a guided tour like this, the first thing to understand is what it includes and how it’s structured. At around nine hours, it’s a full day that aims to give you a taste of Costa Brava’s most iconic sights without requiring you to drive or organize logistics. You’ll meet your guide at the Barcelona Nord bus station, where check-in is at 8:15 am, ready for a smooth departure.

The Journey from Barcelona to Costa Brava

The trip begins with a comfortable 75-minute bus ride from Barcelona to Lloret de Mar. The bus is equipped with WiFi, which is a small but appreciated touch—perfect for catching up on photos or just relaxing. The journey itself is fairly straightforward, and the bus stops at a convenient central location in Barcelona, making it easy to join the tour.

Exploring Lloret de Mar

First stop is Lloret de Mar, often considered the main tourist hub of Costa Brava. Here, you get about 1.5 hours of free time to explore on your own. We loved the way the town combines a busy, lively promenade with quiet, less crowded beaches like Sa Caleta. The promenade offers scenic views of the expansive Lloret Beach, and the town’s architecture reflects a modernist influence, particularly the Church of St. Roma, which you’ll see during your walk.

Many reviews mention how helpful and friendly guides are here—one reviewer noted that their guide Marta was very attentive and full of helpful insights. The balance of guided narration and free time is appreciated; you can stroll, snap photos, or grab a quick coffee. Keep in mind that in summer, Lloret can be pretty busy, especially at the beach.

The Scenic Boat Ride

After some exploring, you’ll board the Dofijets for a one-hour cruise along the coast. This is, quite simply, one of the highlights. The boat glides past towering cliffs, hidden coves, and jagged shoreline formations that you’d only otherwise see from afar. The reviews consistently praise the views from the boat, with many saying it’s an “exceptional” experience.

Weather is a factor here—if seas are rough, the boat ride might be canceled, so it’s worth checking the forecast beforehand. When it runs, you’ll love the chance to see the coast from a different angle. The scenic cruise makes the trip special, adding a layer of tranquility and visual delight that’s hard to beat.

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Tossa de Mar: Medieval Charm and Gourmet Tastes

Next, the boat drops you in Tossa de Mar, a town famed for its medieval fortress and well-preserved old town. You’ll have about 3.5 hours here, which is enough for a guided tour and some free time. The guided walk takes you through narrow, historic streets, and you’ll get to see the fortified walls and the ancient castle—listed as an artistic-historic monument since 1931.

One of the most praised parts of this stop is the chance to enjoy the town’s culinary offerings. Many reviewers talk about how good the food is here, with some even mentioning the tapas and seafood as a highlight. You can stroll around boutique shops or relax at a seaside cafe, making the most of the free time.

Return to Barcelona

The journey back is about 1.5 hours, providing a chance to unwind after a busy day. Throughout the trip, guides are praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and organization—many reviews mention how they go above and beyond, making the day memorable without feeling rushed.

Practical Details & What to Expect

Transportation & Comfort: The bus is air-conditioned, with WiFi onboard, making the trip pleasant and modern. The group size isn’t specified exactly, but the many positive reviews suggest it’s a well-managed, friendly experience.

Timing: The whole day runs from 8:15 am check-in to around 5 pm or so, depending on the season. The schedule is tight but well-paced if you’re eager to see a lot without spending extra on transportation or guides.

Inclusions & Extras: For $65, you get all transportation, the boat cruise, guided tours, and an audio guide in multiple languages. Not included are meals, so you should plan to bring or buy lunch during your free time. The tour also offers the flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance, giving some peace of mind.

Weather & Sea Conditions: The boat ride is weather-dependent. If seas are rough, the cruise might be canceled, but the rest of the day still proceeds with visits and free time. It’s a good idea to check the forecast and dress comfortably, perhaps bringing sunglasses and sunscreen.

What the Reviews Tell Us

The consistent, glowing feedback from over a thousand travelers helps paint a clear picture of what to expect. Many praise the knowledgeable guides and the well-organized nature of the trip, with some saying it’s their favorite part of their trip to Spain. The views from the boat are frequently described as “exceptional,” and the towns themselves are appreciated for their charm and character.

Some reviewers highlight that the tour strikes a good balance—there’s enough free time to explore or relax, alongside guided insights. A few mention that the duration in each town is just right for a taste, but not enough for deep dives into every corner. Still, most seem to find the day well worth the cost, especially given the inclusion of the boat ride and guided tours.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you want a hassle-free way to see Costa Brava’s highlights, this tour checks a lot of boxes. It’s perfect for travelers who enjoy guided experiences but also want some independent exploration. The price makes it accessible, and the diverse itinerary means you’ll experience both lively coastal towns and scenic coves from the water.

However, if you’re someone who prefers a very relaxed pace or has specific mobility needs, this might not be ideal due to the tight schedule and the weather-dependent boat trip. It’s also worth noting that if you’re traveling with young children or have specific accessibility requirements, you should consider the mention that the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible.

Final Thoughts

This Costa Brava day trip from Barcelona offers a wonderful snapshot of what makes the region special—craggy coastlines, historic towns, and delicious food. It’s especially suited for those who want a good mix of guided insight and free time, all at a reasonable price point. The boat cruise alone elevates this experience—many reviews describe it as a must-do, providing some of the best views of Costa Brava’s rugged cliffs and hidden coves.

Overall, if you’re after a full-day adventure that combines scenic beauty, cultural highlights, and some leisure, this tour stands out as a smart choice. It’s well-organized and has earned high praise for its guides, value, and memorable vistas. Just remember to check the weather and come prepared for a busy, fun-filled day.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
This tour is not wheelchair accessible, and those with mobility issues might find some parts challenging. It’s best suited for travelers who are able to walk moderate distances and tolerate a busy schedule.

What should I bring on the tour?
Comfortable shoes are essential for walking around towns and exploring. Sunglasses and sunscreen are also recommended to enjoy the outdoor scenery comfortably.

Will I be able to buy lunch at Tossa de Mar?
The tour does not include lunch, so you should plan to bring snacks or plan to enjoy the many eateries available in Tossa de Mar during your free time.

What happens if the sea conditions are bad?
The boat service may be canceled if weather conditions at sea are unfavorable, but the rest of the tour will continue as planned, with visits to the towns.

How long do I spend in each place?
You’ll have about 1.5 hours in Lloret de Mar and 3.5 hours in Tossa de Mar, plus an hour for the boat cruise. These times are enough for a quick exploration, but not for extensive sightseeing.

Is the tour guided or self-guided?
Guided tours in Tossa de Mar are included, with a professional guide leading the way. Audio guides are also available in multiple languages if you prefer to explore on your own.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to adapt your plans if needed.

In the end, whether you’re after picture-perfect views, exploring historic towns, or just a break from the city, this Costa Brava day trip offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience some of Spain’s most scenic coastlines—especially if you appreciate a guided, organized approach.

You can check availability for your dates here: