Visiting Figueres: what are the best things to do and see in this pretty Catalan city so dear to Salvador Dalí?
Figueres is a typically Catalan town in the heart of the Alt Empordà region, close to the Mediterranean Sea and the Pyrenees mountain range. It is world-famous for its cultural and artistic sites. A visit to Figueres also means discovering the city of Salvador Dalí, the famous surrealist painter who was born, lived and died here.
Dynamic in every season, Figueres is full of activities for couples, friends and families. Generation Voyage has compiled a list of the best activities not to be missed when you visit Figueres. Choose what you like, and we’ll see you there!
1. Dalí Theatre-Museum
Visiting Figueres without visiting the Dalí Theatre-Museum? You wouldn’t think of it! This cultural space of national importance is dedicated to the Spanish painter who was at the forefront of the Surrealist movement.
In 1974, he opened his own museum and spent the rest of his life adorning it with spectacular creations. The artist is still buried here today, in a crypt topped by a glass dome.
The building stands on the remains of the former Figueras municipal theater, destroyed at the end of the civil war. Numerous works by this prolific painter are housed here: you can discover his early period (1917-1928), surrealist (1929-1940), and classical (1941-1983). The tour lasts an average of two hours and is thoroughly fascinating. Don’t hesitate to book in high season, as places are limited!
2. Walk the streets
Figueres is a very pleasant town to stroll around. The typical Catalan architecture of the narrow streets is enhanced by year-round sunshine. A number of interesting buildings dot your route: the 10th-century Sant Pere church, rebuilt in neo-Gothic style, Casa Puig (Dalí’s birthplace), and the picturesque houses along the Rambla, the true heart of the town.
To find out all you need to know about this city of character, book a guided tour at the Tourist Office. You’ll find it in the Place de l’Escorxador, surrounded by numerous bars and restaurants. By the way, a plate of tapas on the terrace is a must!
3. Visit San Ferran Castle
This oversized military complex, built in the 18th century, is located at the end of Pujada del Castell street. It occupies 32 hectares, making it the largest monument in Catalonia and the largest modern fortress in Europe! It could house up to 4,000 soldiers ready to defend Catalan territory.
Today, it lends itself more readily to guided tours, much to the delight of tourists. If you’re looking for something to do in Figueres that combines walking and heritage, this is a great plan!
Discover the secrets of this exceptionally well-preserved castle, and learn all about its complex architecture. We particularly recommend it for families with children: they’ll be the first to be thrilled by this legendary behemoth.
4. Visit the Toy Museum of Catalonia
Children are in for a real treat in this list of the best things to do in Figueres. The Toy Museum of Catalonia is specially dedicated to them: a veritable time machine, this cultural space traces the history of toys. Puppet theaters, toy soldiers, cardboard horses, balls, board games, plush toys, tricycles and robots will make the eyes of young and old sparkle.
Located in the heart of Casa Terradas, built in 1767, the museum comprises 10,000 pieces, half of which are on public display. Inaugurated in 1982, it also houses precious period documents, including photographs of Dalí… with his toys, of course. You’ll see priceless objects such as this baker’s figurine dating from the 6th century B.C. It was found in a child’s tomb in the Greek necropolis of Emporion.
5. Wine tourism
The Empordà region is criss-crossed by a wine route, a gourmet itinerary showcasing Catalan winemaking expertise. The Empordà D.O.C. is a world-renowned appellation of vineyards spread between sea and hills. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to discover exquisite beverages in the heart of period cellars.
This route links the three main Romanesque monasteries that initiated vine-growing and wine-making. Along the way, you’ll pass through the superb Cap de Creus nature park and reach Peralada Castle, home to the Wine Museum. In Roses, the Oenology Centre offers interactive activities… and wine tastings. In moderation, of course!
6. Visit the Empordà Museum
The Museu de l’Empordà is an institution dedicated to the conservation and promotion of the region’s heritage. If you’re looking for a cultural activity to do in Figueres, you’ve come to the right place.
Opened in the 19th century, this museum offers a variety of exhibitions and events, as well as Catalan art collections. While Dalí’s works take pride of place, you’ll also have the pleasure of admiring the creations of other local artists.
The museum’s archaeology area highlights the history of Catalonia, from prehistory through antiquity and the Middle Ages to the modern period.
7. Discover Els Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park
The Aiguamolls de l’Empordà nature park is the second largest wetland area in Catalonia. It is a marshland of almost 5,000 hectares that became a nature park in 1987 to save it from the ravages of urbanization. The park is divided into three strict nature reserve zones: the island of Caramany, the coastal lagoons of Llaunes and the ponds.
It is home to a wide variety of endemic flora and fauna. Glasswort, tamarind and sea rushes are the playgrounds of numerous reptiles, amphibians and mammals. Turtles can be seen roaming freely. Educational trails punctuated by explanatory signs are a delight for walkers, who can admire the waltz of migratory birds. A wonderful walk in the fresh air for couples, families or friends!
8. Visit Figueres market
Yummy! Every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday from 7.30 a.m. to 2 p.m., the Figueres market gives pride of place to local produce. Or rather, the markets: the old one with its market hall(Plaça del Gra) and the new one(Plaça Catalunya). Good mood, good colors, good tastes, good smells: all the ingredients are there to awaken your five senses.
You’ll be able to sample emblematic Iberian specialties such as chorizo, soubressade and Serrano ham, as well as succulent seafood and vitamin-packed organic fruit. What’s more, your nearest and dearest would no doubt be delighted to receive a nice bottle of olive oil or wine on your return, what do you think?
9. Take a swim break
When visiting Figueres in summer, it’s a good idea to take advantage of the beautiful sandy beaches of the Costa Brava. The beaches of Portbou, Cap de Creus, the Cala del Tres Platgetes cove, the beaches of Llança… the choice is yours!
We also recommend a visit to Empuriabrava, the » Venice of Spain ». This seaside resort boasts seven kilometers of coastline and a wealth of tourist and leisure attractions. By the way, are you more into water sports, parasailing, swimming or lounging?
10. Going to St Peter’s church in Figueras
The Church of St. Peter in Figueras is located in the square of the same name, in the heart of the town. Built in the 10th century in Romanesque style, it has been embellished with Gothic elements over the years. Its dome was rebuilt in 1895 to the designs of architect Josep Azemar i Pont… but the building suffered extensive damage during the Spanish Civil War.
A spectacular octagonal lantern tower was later added. This listed historic monument was the scene of Salvador Dalí’s baptism, first communion and funeral.
How to get to Figueres
By plane
To visit Figueres from the air, there’s only one solution: Barcelona airport, just 1 h 30 away by car. To find a flight at the best price, take advantage of the expertise of Skyscanner, an intelligent flight comparator. It’s ideal for selecting the most suitable offer for your stay: practical!
By train or bus
Figueres station is served by regional trains on the R11 line and trains on the RG1 line. This makes it easy to reach other cities throughout Catalonia and the rest of Spain.
You can also take advantage of the bus station just a few dozen meters from the station. Buses run to Spain’s major cities.
By car
Visiting Figueres by car is a convenient way to get around once you’re there. The Catalan city is easily accessible by road. It’s just 20 kilometers from the French border at Le Perthus.
TheA9 freeway takes you directly from Perpignan, Montpellier, Nîmes or Orange.
On the Spanish side, theAP-7, also known as the « Mediterranean freeway », is the main route. It links Figueres with the metropolis of Barcelona and its wonders, for example.
By boat
Ferries run to the Costa Brava ports closest to Figueres. The Empuriabrava marina and Cadaques are easy to reach from any of Spain’s coastal towns.
Your boat, if you’re lucky enough to own one, will appreciate the many mooring possibilities in the area. Harbour berths, on the other hand, need to be reserved well in advance, especially in high season!
Where to stay in Figueres?
Whether you’re visiting Figueres for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the wide choice of accommodation on offer. As far as hotels are concerned, there are around fifty in the municipality.
Use this great hotel comparator to find the establishment best suited to your desires, needs and, of course, your budget. Apart-hotels, guesthouses and inns are scattered throughout the region.
Of course, the many and varied properties available for rent from private individuals are a practical and affordable solution. Choose the pied-à-terre of your dreams on the Airbnb platform, for example, to feel right at home. We recommend that you book them well in advance, as they are in great demand in high season.
All that’s left is to choose… and decide when you’re coming. When are you planning it, then?
Map of hotels and accommodation – Catalonia