Catalonia’s 17 most beautiful villages

Planning a holiday between sea and mountains? Then discover the 17 most beautiful villages in Catalonia!

Would you like to discover the most beautiful villages in Catalonia? Located in the north-east of Spain, Catalonia is one of the country’s historic regions. It is also an autonomous community, a territory with its own distinctive culture. This Catalan country also extends into France, over a large part of the Pyrénées-Orientales region.

This beautiful region boasts a unique heritage and breathtaking scenery, between the sea and the Pyrenees mountains. Here’s a quick round-up of the must-see places to visit during your stay between France and Spain.

1. Tossa de Mar

Famous for its white houses and numerous beaches, Tossa de Mar is a typical Catalan village on the Mediterranean coast. Situated on the seafront, it offers sublime panoramas, with blue waters below, whitewashed houses and trees in the background. Travellers will also appreciate its well-preserved heritage, such as the Vila Vella city walls.

2. Besalú

Situated close to the Garrotxa volcanic park, Besalù is known as the cradle of Catalan culture. Besalú is famous for its beautiful historical and architectural ensemble. Highlights include the Benedictine abbey, founded in 977, and the old Jewish baths.

Unshakeable through the centuries, Besalù is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia. A sunset over the village, with its bridge in the foreground, is enough to convince you!

3. Miravet

Nestled on the right bank of the River Ebro, the town of Miravet offers a picturesque landscape, with the imposing silhouette of the Templar castle towering above it. But Miravet is not just one of Catalonia’s most beautiful villages for its must-see castle.

The town admirably blends the Arab influences of its Old Town with more recent buildings. With the Ebro River below, it’s an unforgettable postcard setting.

4. Banyoles

A lively town in the province of Girona, Banyoles boasts a fascinating architectural and historical heritage. It is also home to pre-Neanderthal treasures and relics, which you can discover at the Musée d’Archéologie Comarcal de Banyoles.

The town is also famous for its lake. This is the largest natural lake in Catalonia and the Iberian Peninsula. The surrounding landscapes are of outstanding beauty and well worth a visit.

5. Cadaqués

Cadaqués is one of those places that leaves no one indifferent. This magnificent fishing village with its fascinating history is sure to seduce travelers with its authentic, bohemian yet sophisticated atmosphere. Or is it the modern architecture, a product of the Indianos, that will delight you?

Or its typical Mediterranean landscapes? Or follow in the footsteps of Salvador Dalí! Either way, you’ll love getting lost in the historic old town, a labyrinth of cobbled streets and white houses.

6. Calella de Palafrugell

A former fishing village, Calella de Palafrugell has preserved its original architecture and charm. Along its narrow streets, you’ll discover ancient houses adorned with porches and arches. But the village, one of the most beautiful in Catalonia, is also renowned for its well-preserved beaches. So take the time during your stay to discover the many coves that dot its coastline.

7. Eus

Located at the foot of the Pyrenees, Eus is one of the most beautiful villages not only in Catalonia, but also in France! Clinging to the hillside for centuries, the village lies at the heart of a plain bathed in sunshine all year round.

Surrounded by lush vegetation, peace and quiet reign in its narrow, pedestrian streets. A treasure of the Catalan countryside, this village is best discovered in spring, when the orchards are in full bloom.

8. Peratallada

Situated in the heart of the Empordà, this extraordinarily beautiful village has preserved its feudal appearance. Along its narrow, winding streets, you’ll discover facades overgrown with greenery, walls and ancient houses. Last but not least, this most beautiful village in Catalonia is renowned for its gastronomy. Its streets are packed with restaurants offering a wide range of Catalan dishes!

9. Sitges

Surrounded by hills to the north and the Mediterranean Sea to the south, Sitges has long been landlocked. Cosmopolitan, the town is known for its varied historical and architectural heritage. Enriched with magnificent buildings from every era, Sitges is sure to surprise you.

Take the time to lose yourself in its streets, squares and monuments. After your long walks, you can take a dip in the delightful bay on the edge of which lies the most beautiful village in Catalonia.

10. Rupit i Pruit

Nestled in the hills, this little village is a medieval gem. Admire its winding streets, suspension bridge, old houses and sculpted lintels.

But the municipality is also home to a small natural wonder, not to be missed in the region: the impressive Salt de Sallent waterfall. A delightful hike in the hills will allow you to discover it!

11. Taüll

Located in the Vall de Boí, Taüll is a typical mountain village in the Catalan Pyrenees. It is famous for the frescoes in its two churches. These true Romanesque gems are now on display at the Museu Nacional d’Art de Catalunya in Barcelona.

But you can still admire the two magnificent religious buildings. You can also enjoy the peace and quiet of the sublime mountain scenery that surrounds this village.

12. Pals

Set between the sea and the mountains, Pals is one of those typical Catalan villages. The ochre hue of its stonework can be seen everywhere. When the sun shines on them, a soft, peaceful atmosphere fills the streets.

Some will prefer to rest in the shade of the trees or in the gloom of the typical cottages. Others enjoy the nearby beach. But in the evenings, all can be found strolling through the narrow, picturesque streets!

13. Castellfollit de la Roca

This exceptional village is located in the La Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. Visitors flock here for its spectacular scenery. It is built on a narrow basalt cliff. You can admire houses built right on the cliff face!

Surprising, authentic and unspoilt, it is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia. And of course, it’s the ideal starting point for discovering this beautiful mountainous region.

14. Castelnou

Castelnou is not only one of the most beautiful villages in Catalonia, but also a cultural and historical highlight. Dominating the Aspres region from its rocky outcrop, it is even considered one of France’s most beautiful villages.

People come here to admire its old buildings, houses, walls and churches, where old stones reign supreme. But Castelnou also boasts an exceptional terroir. Travelers will appreciate the local market and wines.

15. Siurana

Nestling atop a plateau, the small village of Siurana is flanked by cliffs overlooking the valley of the river of the same name. From this exceptional site, you can enjoy an incredible view of the Priorat region and the reservoir below. Its narrow streets, organized around a beautiful red-tiled church, are sure to win you over too!

16. Ametlla de Mar

Nicknamed La Cala, which means « the creek », this village is one of the most beautiful in Catalonia. A typical fishing and coastal village, it will delight bathing and lounging enthusiasts. Here, you can relax with your feet in the water, in a peaceful, authentic atmosphere.

To the north and south lies a sublime coastline, dotted with dreamy coves and beaches that travellers will never tire of discovering.

17. Arties

Situated at the confluence of the Garonne and Rio Valarties rivers, this charming mountain village is sure to delight visitors. In addition to the magnificent mountain scenery that surrounds it, you’ll discover a fascinating, unspoilt heritage.

Travelers will also appreciate the old bicycles placed throughout the village. These are decorated with planters of various flowers. They’ve helped make this village one of the most flowery in the Pyrenees!

Map of hotels and accommodation – Catalonia