Blanes Day Trip From Barcelona: An Easy Costa Brava Day Trip
Are you looking for an easy day trip from Barcelona to explore Costa Brava?
Then you might want to consider a day trip to Blanes!
Blanes is a small coastal town in the southern part of Costa Brava with a direct train connection from Barcelona!
Blanes is often called the “Gateway to the Costa Brava,” because Blanes is the first coastal town on the Costa Brava coastal area.
This summer, I visited Blanes for the first time with a friend of mine and my dog, Baloo.
I didn’t expect much of Blanes, but actually, this small coastal town surprised me very positively as a great day trip getaway from Barcelona!
Blanes is an ideal destination for a day trip from Barcelona with a perfect blend of a laid-back beach town atmosphere and adventure.
In Blanes, you have everything from a charming old medieval town and historical sites to stunning nature with botanical gardens and hidden coves.
There were far more things to do in Blanes than I expected, and I can’t highlight enough how easy it was to visit Blanes by train from Barcelona!
Unfortunately, we couldn’t go to some of the places in Blanes because we were traveling with Baloo, and not all places allow dogs.
So, I wanted to write up this guide to share the best tips for an easy Blanes day trip from Barcelona!
An Expat’s Guide to Blanes Spain: A Costa Brava Day Trip from Barcelona
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Blanes Logistics
This Blanes day trip guide is my suggestion for experiencing the best of Blanes, Spain. Whether you’re planning to visit Blanes just for one day or planning a longer stay, this guide will hopefully inspire and help you!
You can add a trip to Blanes to your Barcelona itinerary or use this guide as a standalone guide to Blanes.
Let’s dive into everything you need to plan the perfect Blanes day trip from Barcelona!
Where is Blanes Located?
Blanes is a coastal town located in the southernmost part of Costa Brava in Catalonia, Spain.
Blanes belongs to the Girona province of Catalonia and is known for its breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea and historical charm.
Blanes is located approximately 70 kilometers (43 miles) northeast of Barcelona.
Depending on your mode of transport, the journey to Blanes takes 1-1.5 hours from Barcelona.
Blanes (Spain) Map
Check out all the best things to do in Blanes, Spain, on the map. In the top right-hand corner, you can click on the full-screen icon and have the map open directly in your Google Maps app
Transportation in Blanes, Costa Brava
You have several options for traveling from Barcelona to Blanes and for getting around once you arrive in Blanes.
Let’s explore them together!
How to Get From Barcelona to Blanes?
You can take a train or a bus from Barcelona to Blanes, or rent a car and drive yourself.
From Barcelona to Blanes with Train
The train is the most convenient option for a Blanes Day Trip from Barcelona.
Take the R1 Rodalies (CercanÃas) line from Sants Train Station, Plaça de Catalunya, or Arc de Triomf train station in Barcelona to Blanes’ Train Station.
Blanes is the last stop on the R1 line, so it is very easy to know whether you are on the right train.
The train ride from Barcelona to Blanes takes around 1 hour 45 minutes and costs € 7,40.
Check the timetable and book your train ticket to Blanes directly on Trainline.
From Barcelona to Blanes with Bus
Buses to Blanes operate from Barcelona’s Estació del Nord.
The bus route from Barcelona to Blanes is slightly longer than the train ride at around 1 hour and 35 minutes.
The bus ticket from Barcelona to Blanes costs € 8.
You can check the timetable and book your bus tickets at BusBud.
From Barcelona to Blanes with Car
Another popular option is to rent a car and make a road trip out of your day trip to Blanes.
The benefits of renting a car are the greater flexibility you get to make stops along the way. It is also easier to explore more of the things to do in Blanes with a car.
The car ride from Barcelona to Blanes takes around 1.5 hours. From Barcelona, head north via the C-32 highway.
Rent a Car for Your Blanes Day Trip
From Barcelona to Blanes with Private Transfer or Taxi
If you are traveling in a bigger group or with your family, and want to avoid the hassle of picking up a rental car, another option is to hire a private transfer or taxi to drive you from Barcelona to Blanes.
A private transfer or taxi is the pricier option, but definitely also the more comfortable one! You can easily book a private transfer to Blanes with GetTransfer.com.
How to Get Around Blanes?
Once you arrive in Blanes, it is very easy to get around!
Walking
The best and easiest way to get around Blanes is by walking. Most attractions in Blanes are within walking distance, making it the easiest way to explore.
Walking is also a good way to experience Blanes and soak in the charming streets and the Mediterranean Sea.
When we did our day trip to Blanes, we only walked around the town – we even walked from the train station to the town which is quite a walk!
Remember to pack a pair of comfortable shoes for your Blanes day trip as many of the main attractions are uphill.
Taxi
For some of the main attractions further away from the city center of Blanes, it might be a good idea to take a taxi.
The most popular attractions in Blanes like the Marimurtra Botanical Garden and the Castle of Sant Joan are located a bit outside the town and uphill.
There are two local taxi companies in Blanes: Taxis de Blanes and Taxis-Blanes.
Public Transport
Local buses are especially useful if you arrive in Blanes via train from Barcelona since the train station is located a bit outside the city center.
There is a local bus running from the train station to the Blanes city center and Blanes beach.
Check the schedule for the different local buses in Blanes (the site doesn’t have the best UX, but you have to click on each bus line for it to open its schedule and route).
The Best Things to Do in Blanes, Spain
Blanes has a little bit of everything: natural beauty, history, and a relaxed seaside atmosphere.
Whether you’re exploring its gardens, beaches, or historic sites, Blanes is a great option to explore Costa Brava on a day trip from Barcelona.
Let’s explore some of the best things to do in Blanes!
Climb the Sa Palomera Rock
The Sa Palomera Rock is a must-visit landmark on any Blanes day trip!
The massive rock is located in the middle of Blanes beach and symbolizes the start of Costa Brava.
Climb to the top of the Sa Palomera Rock for a rewarding panoramic view of Blanes and the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
The climb to the top of Sa Palomera Rock is relatively easy. There are stairs cut out in the stone and small platforms to make stops on your way up, making it an activity that’s accessible to most visitors.
The breathtaking panoramic views of Blanes from the summit of Sa Palomera Rock are one of the best things to do in Blanes!
Photo Stop at the “The Gate to the Costa Brava”
At the base of Sa Palomera Rock, you will find a strange big monument that looks like a large metal arch.
The monument is called “the Gate to the Costa Brava”, or Portal de la Costa Brava in Spanish.
The monument symbolizes Blanes’ status as the first town on Costa Brava, and the town’s nickname as the “Gateway to the Costa Brava”.
The location of the monument provides a perfect backdrop with the town and the sea in the background.
Make a photo stop at the monument to capture your day trip to Costa Brava!
Location: Carrer Sant Andreu de la Palomera 3-9, Blanes
Book a tour to explore Blanes!
Enjoy Blanes Beaches
Blanes is famous for its crystal-clear waters and sandy beaches with plenty of opportunities to spend a couple of hours enjoying the sun at one of the many beautiful beaches around Blanes.
Here are some of the most popular beaches to visit in Blanes:
Platja de Blanes
Platja de Blanes, translated as Blanes Beach, is the main beach in Blanes located right by the Sa Palomera Rock.
Platja de Blanes stretches along the Blanes promenade offering calm waters, lifeguards, and nearby amenities such as restaurants and beach bars.
Platja de Blanes is the perfect beach to visit if you just want a quick swim before you continue to explore on your Blanes day trip!
Platja S’Abanell
Platja S’Abanell is Blanes’ largest beach covering 2.1 kilometers of sandy beach on the northern side of Sa Palomera.
Platja S’Abanell is easily accessible from the town, making it a perfect stop for a swim!
When I visited it was still a bit too cold to go for a swim. But my dog, Baloo, was of another understanding, so when I let him off leash he went directly to the water and was having a blast.
I found out afterward that dogs are actually not allowed on Blanes Beach, but there was almost nobody on the beach the day we visited, so I didn’t get into any trouble by letting him off-leash.
Cala de Sant Françesc
At the beginning of the Camà de Ronda trail in the northern part of Blanes, you’ll find the small and peaceful cove, called Cala de Sant Françesc.
The Cala de Sant Françesc is also known as Cala Bona.
The cove is easily accessed from the Marimurtra Botanical Garden or the Castle of Sant Joan.
Platja de Treumal
Platja de Treumal, also known as Cala Treumal, is a beautiful beach cove located north of Blanes.
Cala Treumal is located on the limit between Lloret de Mar and Blanes, right next to the bigger and more popular Santa Cristina Beach in Lloret de Mar.
The beach area of Cala Treumal also offers restaurants, cafes, and parking spots for visitors.
Cala s’Agulla
Cala s’Agulla is one of the less-known Blanes Beaches located near the Pinya de Rosa Botanical Garden north of Blanes.
Cala s’Agulla is a small cove offering a unique and intimate beach experience.
The entrance to the cove is through the Camino de Santa Cristina right by the side of the entrance to the Pinya de Rosa Botanical Garden.
Cala Sa Forcanera
Cala Sa Forcanera is a unique cove located north of Blanes city center, accessible only by sea.
During your day trip to Blanes, rent a boat or a kayak to explore this gem of Costa Brava.
Lunch at Blanes’ Promenade
Blanes’ seafront promenade is a must-visit on a day trip to Blanes from Barcelona.
The promenade, also known as Passeig de la Marina, is the center of social life in Blanes.
The promenade is lined with palm trees alongside restaurants and cafes serving fresh seafood and traditional Catalan dishes. Many restaurants here also offer menus del dÃa (daily menus), providing excellent value for your midday meal.
We had a menu del dÃa lunch at the restaurant Gusto Blanes. We got Gusto Blanes recommended by a local guy Baloo made friends with while we walked along the promenade (traveling with Baloo is a great conversation starter!)
Gusto Blanes offers outdoor seating and has a very affordable lunch menu for 20 euros per person including drinks (we got a whole bottle of white wine between two!).
Their outdoor terrace with a view of the sea is dog-friendly. So, Baloo should get his lunch too while we had ours!
You can find the harbor and fishing port at the northern edge of the Promenade and Blanes Beach.
From Blanes Harbor you can easily head to two other popular things to do in Blanes: Visit the Marimurtra Botanical Garden and hike on the Cami de Ronda Trail.
Location: Passeig de la Marina, Blanes
Visit Marimurtra Botanical Garden
Marimurtra Botanical Garden is one of the absolute most popular things to do in Blanes!
The botanical garden, known as Jardà Botà nic Marimurtra in Catalan, is located on a cliff-side in the northern part of Blanes.
The garden’s unique cliffside location offers some stunning views of the Costa Brava coastline.
The Marimurtra Botanical Garden was founded in 1921 by the German botanist Karl Faust and features a diverse collection of over 4,000 plant species from around the world.
The Marimurtra Botanical Garden is spread over 16 hectares and throughout the garden, you can also find beautiful neoclassical pavilions overlooking the sea.
Unfortunately, Marimurtra Botanical Garden doesn’t allow dogs to visit, so I didn’t get a chance to visit on our Blanes day trip since I had nowhere to leave Baloo.
Hopefully, I will have a second chance to come back and explore the Marimurtra Botanical Garden and its scenic views!
Book your entrance ticket to Marimurtra Botanical Garden in advance!
Marimurtra Botanical Garden’s opening hours:
- March to May
- Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm
- June to September
- Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 7 pm
- September to October
- Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm
- November to March
- Monday to Friday: 10 am to 3 pm
- Saturday and Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
Double-check Matrimurtra Botanical Garden’s website for any changes in opening hours.
Location: Passeig de Carles Faust 9, Blanes
Book your entrance ticket to Marimurtra Botanical Garden:
Explore Blanes’ Old Town
Blanes is a coastal town with more than a thousand years of history, offering an interesting medieval town worth exploring on your day trip from Barcelona.
Blanes’s old town can be covered in more or less an hour, but it is worth adding to your Blanes day trip list.
Blanes’ Gothic Church
Blanes’ Santa Maria Church, also known as Església de Santa Maria de Blanes in Catalan, is a Gothic-style church built in the 14th century.
The Santa Maria Church is situated in the historic center of Blanes at Plaça de Mossèn Quer. The church is attached to the former palace of the Viscounts of Cabrera, creating a cohesive architectural ensemble.
In 1936, the building suffered a devastating fire that resulted in significant damage, including works done by the famous Catalan architect Antonio Gaudi.
After the Spanish Civil War ended, the restoration project on the Santa Maria Church started in 1940 and lasted until the end of 1944.
The Santa Maria Church is a testament to Blanes’ medieval past, and a great stop to add to your Blanes day trip.
We only visited Blanes’ church from the outside and admired the fascinating old medieval façade. Don’t miss the unique old medieval stairs behind the church on Carrer de les Escales del Palau.
You can visit the Santa Maria Church on the inside if you want to learn more about the church’s past and admire its impressive interior.
The Santa Maria Church in Blanes is open:
- Monday to Sunday: 10 am to 6 pm
Location: Carrer Nou 22, Blanes
Ermita de la Mare de Déu de la Font de la Salut
Ermita de la Mare de Déu de la Font de la Salut is a small white-painted chapel located a short walk from the Santa Maria Church in Blanes.
The chapel is located where one of the ancient entrances to Blanes from Lloret del Mar used to be.
According to the information sign outside the chapel, the earliest mentions of the Ermita de la Mare de Déu de la Font de la Salut-chapel date back to the 17th century, however, the chapel itself is properly older.
When we visited the chapel was closed but we still enjoyed discovering this little historical gem in Blanes’ Old Town.
Location: Carrer de la Salut 20, Blanes
Gothic Fountain
The Gothic Fountain, also known as Font Gòtica in Catalan, is an iconic historical landmark in Blanes.
The Gothic Fountain is located in the heart of Blanes’ Old Town next to the municipal theatre.
The Blanes’ Gothic fountain dates back to the 15th century. For preservation purposes, it doesn’t supply water anymore.
As a tourist attraction in Blanes, the fountain isn’t anything too special apart from its medieval history. But it is a fun quick stop to make on your Blanes day trip.
Location: Carrer Ample 26, Blanes
Carrer Hospital
Carrer Hospital, translated as Hospital Street, is a small picturesque street in Blanes’ Old Town.
The neighbors at Carrer Hospital decorate their street with crafts and plants, creating a colorful and fun atmosphere worth a stop on your day trip to Blanes!
By coincidence, we stumbled upon Carrer Hospital on the way to the Santa Maria Church.
Location: Carrer Hospital, Blanes
Hike to the Castle of Sant Joan
The Castle of San Joan is one of the best things to do in Blanes if you want to experience both history and breathtaking views.
The Castle of Sant Joan, also known as Castell de Sant Joan, features the remains of a fortress built between the 11th century and the 13th century.
The Castle of San Joan is located on a hillside in the northern part of Blanes, offering stunning views over the coastal town and the surrounding coastline and countryside.
According to Blanes Tourist Information, the Castle of Sant Joan was built to overlook the coastline for pirate attacks. However, at the end of the 15th century, the fortress lost its importance and was left abandoned.
The hike to the castle takes about 30-40 minutes, and you can take a taxi to the top.
The Castle of Sant Joan’s opening hours:
- April to September
- Monday to Sunday: 6 am to 11 pm
- October to March
- Monday to Sunday: 8 am to 9 pm
Before your visit, double-check the opening hours on Blanes Tourist Information’s website.
Location: Carrer Cardenal Vidal i Barraquer, Blanes
Visit the Pinya de Rosa Tropical Garden
The Pinya de Rosa Tropical Garden is a unique botanical garden in Blanes, less well known than its famous big sister, Marimurtra Botanical Garden.
The Pinya Rosa Tropical Garden, also known as Jardà Botà nic Tropical Paratge Pinya de Rosa in Calatan, specializes in tropical and subtropical plants, with over 7,000 exotic plants on display.
The Pinya de Rosa Tropical Garden is located just a short drive from Blanes’ city center.
Currently, the Pinya de Rosa Tropical Garden is closed until March 31, 2025.
The entrance to the Pinya de Rosa Tropical Garden is 5€ and includes a discount if you are also visiting the Marimurta Botanical Gardens in Blanes.
The Pinya de Rosa Tropical Garden’s opening hours:
- May to September: 9 am to 7 pm
- January to April: 9 am to 6 pm
Before going, I recommend checking prices and opening hours on Pinya de Rosa Tropical Garden‘s website.
Location: Camà de Santa Cristina, Blanes
Explore Blanes with a Private Guide
Hike the Camà de Ronda Trail
The Camà de Ronda is a coastal hiking trail that stretches along Costa Brava.
The Camà de Ronda trail offers a unique experience of the landscapes of Costa Brava taking you through rugged cliffs, pine forests, and hidden coves.
Along the way, you’ll encounter beautiful views of the Mediterranean and opportunities to explore the area’s beaches with crystal-clear blue water.
On our day trip to Blanes, we didn’t have time to add the section of Camà de Ronda near Blanes. But I did the Camà de Ronda near Platja d’Aro last summer with Baloo, and I absolutely loved it!
So, if you are short on time by still want to try walking part of Camà de Ronda, I highly recommend adding it to your Blanes day trip.
The Camà de Ronda trail varies in difficulty. You can choose a short, leisurely walk or a more challenging several hike. From Blanes, a popular route is to hike along Camà de Ronda to Lloret de Mar, another popular coastal town just north of Blanes.
Take a Boat Trip Around Blanes
Blanes is the perfect spot for exploring the stunning Costa Brava coastline with its clear blue water, hidden coves, and beautiful beaches.
A great way to explore Blanes from a unique perspective is by joining a boat trip!
Some tours include stops for swimming or snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, making a boat trip a fantastic activity for families or couples looking for a romantic escape in Blanes.
Book a boat tour in Blanes
Sign-up Kayak Tour on the Mediterranean Sea
Blanes is a great spot for water sports such as water skiing and kayaking!
If you are looking for more active things to do in Blanes, consider signing up for a kayak tour along the coast of Blanes!
Guided kayak tours take you to hidden caves and lesser-known coves that are inaccessible by foot.
Paddle through the clear blue waters, marvel at the dramatic cliffs, and enjoy the serenity of the Mediterranean. Many tours are suitable for beginners, making this an activity anyone can enjoy
Get the Most Out of a Day Trip to Blanes
Blanes offers a great mix of natural beauty, historical sites, and seaside charm.
To get the most out of time in Blanes, here are some ideas for top-rated tours in Blanes or enjoy one of the many popular guided day trips to Blanes from Barcelona.
You can also use Blanes as the starting point to explore other parts of Costa Brava. Turn your day trip into a longer stay to explore the surrounding Costa Brava coastal towns.
Top-rated Tours & Activities in Blanes, Costa Brava
Here are some of the most popular tours and activities to do in Blanes:
- Marimurtra Botanical Garden Entry Ticket
- Blanes Blue Horizon Boat Cruise
- Blanes Kayak Tour
- Jet skiing in Blanes
Popular Guided Day Trips to Blanes from Barcelona
Instead of visiting Blanes on your own, you can also join a guided day tour to visit Blanes from Barcelona.
Here are some of the popular guided day trips to Blanes – some also includes visits to other picturesque towns in Costa Brava:
- Marimurtra Garden and Blanes Tour
- Sunset Tour to Blanes & Marimurtra Garden
- Wine-tasting & Visit to Blanes (incl. Marimurtra Garden)
- Private Day Trip from Barcelona to Blanes (incl. Marimurtra Garden)
- Blanes & Tossa de Mar Guided Tour
- Costa Brava Day Tour with Lunch (incl. Blanes)
Where to Stay in Blanes?
Blanes is a popular place for locals to go on summer vacation. There are plenty of hotels and other accommodations if you want to extend your day trip to Blanes for a couple of days.
Here are some ideas to top-rated places to stay in Blanes:
- SeaHomes Vacations Blanes
- Casa Indiana Hotel Boutique
- Pierre & Vacances Blanes Playa
- Apartamento Blanes
Find more places to stay in Blanes
Blanes Day Trip FAQs
What is the Closest Costa Brava Town from Barcelona?
Blanes is the closest town in Costa Brava to Barcelona since it marks the beginning of Costa Brava.
Is Blanes in Costa Brava?
Yes! Blanes is located in Costa Brava and is known as the “Gateway to the Costa Brava”.
Blanes is the only town in Costa Brava with a direct train connection to Barcelona, making it the perfect spot for an easy Costa Brava day trip from Barcelona.
What is the Best Time to Visit Blanes?
The best time to visit Blanes is in the spring (April to June) and the summer (July to September) when the weather is warmer and there are more things to do in Blanes.
July is a great time to visit Blanes if you want to experience one of the city’s most popular events, Festa Major.
Festa Major is a week-long series of festivities that transform this Costa Brava seaside town into a hub of cultural celebrations, music, and a fireworks competition. This festival commemorates the patron saint of Blanes, Sant Bonaventura, and is one of the most visited events in Blanes.
Nevertheless, the mild Mediterranean climate makes Blanes a perfect spot to visit year-round.
What should I pack for a day trip to Blanes?
For your Blanes day trip, you should remember to pack:
- Comfortable shoes – You’ll do a lot of walking!
- Sun cream – the Mediterranean climate is sunny!
- Water bottle
- Quick dry towel – for your dip in the Mediterranean Sea!
Final Thoughts: Is Blanes, Spain Worth Visiting?
Blanes is an ideal spot for a day trip from Barcelona with its beautiful beaches, rich medieval history, and beautiful gardens and nature!
In my opinion, Blanes is worth visiting if you are looking for an easy day trip to Costa Brava.
A visit to Blanes is a great way to experience the beauty of the Mediterranean while escaping Barcelona’s bustling streets.
I was surprised to find that there were so many things to do in Blanes that we didn’t even get to cover all in one day! Next time, I would properly consider booking one or two nights in Blanes and exploring some of the places I didn’t get to visit the first time.
However, Blanes might not be the most charming town on the Costa Brava, and if you have time on your Spain itinerary you might consider exploring other Costa Brava coastal towns such as Tossa de Mar or Cadaques.
With this Blanes day trip guide, I hope I have helped you to find some of the best things to do in Blanes and how to do an easy Costa Brava day trip from Barcelona!
Rebecca
Rebecca is the voice behind Becci Abroad, a travel blog inspiring you to get under the skin of the world. She is a long-term expat with more than 10 year of living abroad from Spain to Argentina, Cuba, and Sweden.
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