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Catalonia holidays
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Holidays to Catalonia promise gorgeous beaches, lively seaside towns and Spain's most exciting city – Barcelona.
From the Pyrenees mountains to the Mediterranean Sea
You’ll find Catalonia up in the northeast of Spain. It’s a good-looking region, with hilltop hamlets, seaside towns and chic cities sandwiched between the snow-capped Pyrenees and the sparkling Mediterranean all crowds.
Architecture and tapas in Barcelona
City-wise, you can’t get any better than Catalonia’s capital, Barcelona. Its buzzing streets are filled with stylish boutiques, gourmet tapas bars and quirky Gaudi architecture.
The Costa Dorada’s golden beaches
Running south from Barcelona is the Costa Dorada, or ‘Golden Coast’. As its name suggests, this stretch of shoreline is edged with golden sandy beaches – 81 kilometres’ worth to be precise. One of the best is in Salou. This family-friendly resort also has Spain’s biggest theme park, PortAventura, right on the doorstep. Quieter towns, like Cambrils and La Pineda, are also popular picks for families, while night owls tend to make a beeline for Sitges’ clubs and bars.
The Costa Brava’s seaside towns
The Costa Brava is Spain’s northernmost Costa, and one of its prettiest, too – the coastline is scalloped with sandy bays and tucked-away coves hemmed in by rugged cliffs. When it comes to choosing a place to stay, you’ve got lively spots like Tossa de Mar and Calella de la Costa, and quieter seaside towns, such as Llafranc and Pineda.
Popular hotels in Catalonia
Facts about Catalonia
FAQs
Where can I find the latest travel advice?
All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.
What travel adapter do I need for Catalonia?
When visiting Catalonia, you'll need two-pin European style plugs, known as Type C or F. Most hotels use these standard European sockets, so pack an adapter if your devices have UK-style plugs. For high-powered devices, check the label to ensure compatibility.
Where are the best places to shop in Catalonia?
Catalonia offers diverse shopping experiences. In Barcelona, you'll find everything from high-end boutiques on Passeig de Gràcia to unique local shops in the Gothic Quarter. For a mix of shopping and sightseeing, we recommend visiting La Roca Village outlet or the vibrant La Boqueria market.
Should I tip in Catalonia?
Tipping in Catalonia is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, if you're pleased with the service, leaving 5-10% of the bill is common. For taxis and hotel staff, rounding up the fare or giving a small amount for good service is typical.
Where can I try local food in Catalonia?
To experience authentic Catalan cuisine, we recommend trying local restaurants away from tourist hotspots. Look for dishes like paella, fideuà, and escalivada. Many TUI resorts offer Catalan specialties in their restaurants, and you can also join food tours to discover local flavours.
What are the best beaches in Catalonia?
Catalonia features Platja de la Mar Bella in Barcelona with golden sand and watersports facilities. Costa Brava's Cala Montjoi offers a sheltered cove with clear waters near Roses. Platja dels Capellans in Tarragona provides a quieter stretch backed by Mediterranean woodland.
What's the nightlife like in Catalonia?
Catalonia, especially Barcelona, is known for its lively nightlife. You'll find a range of options from beachfront bars to trendy clubs. Many venues don't get busy until after midnight and you'll often find entertainment and bars on-site for a relaxing evening.
Are there any local customs I should know about in Catalonia?
When visiting Catalonia, greet locals with hola or bon dia in Catalan. Cover shoulders and knees when visiting churches and cathedrals. Tipping around 10% for good service is appreciated in restaurants and cafes.
What should I pack for Catalonia?
For Catalonia, pack a mix of casual and smart-casual clothing suitable for both city exploration and beach relaxation. Bring comfortable walking shoes for sightseeing in Barcelona and coastal towns. Include swimwear, sun cream, and a sun hat for beach days. Pack a light jacket or wrap for cooler evenings and modest clothing for visiting religious sites.
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