Things To Do
in Blanes
Blanes is a sunny coastal town on the Costa Brava, famed for its long sandy beaches and vibrant marina. It blends family-friendly seaside days with historical charm in its compact old town and lively promenade. Highlights include the Marimurtra Botanical Garden and the Santa Cristina Hermitage perched on sea cliffs.
With excellent seafood, markets, and easy access to Girona and the rest of the Costa Brava, Blanes is a convenient base for exploring the region.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Blanes and settle into your accommodation, soaking in the coastal atmosphere. Take a stroll along the picturesque promenade to feel the refreshing sea breeze. Don’t forget to grab a coffee at a local café while enjoying breathtaking views of the Mediterranean.
Hit the sandy shores of Playa de Blanes for some sunbathing and swimming. Participate in water sports like paddle boarding or try your hand at jet skiing to get the adrenaline pumping. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside chiringuito, savoring fresh seafood dishes.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant street markets in the town center. Indulge in dinner at a traditional Spanish restaurant, tasting local specialties such as paella or tapas. End the night with a glass of local wine while taking in the lively atmosphere.
Set out to visit the stunning Marimurtra Botanical Gardens, renowned for its exotic plants and breathtaking coastal views. Wander through the beautifully landscaped paths and hit the lookout points for mesmerizing panoramic photos. Take a moment to appreciate the unique flora and relaxing ambiance.
After exploring the gardens, enjoy a picnic lunch in the serene setting, surrounded by nature. Spend the afternoon wandering through the coastal cliffs, discovering hidden coves. Alternatively, you can return to the beach for more sunbathing and swimming.
Dine at a seafood restaurant renowned for its paella and fresh catch of the day. After dinner, consider calling it a night with a visit to a local bar to experience the vibrant nightlife of Blanes. Sip on some traditional sangria while mingling with locals and other travelers.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🚆One-way public transport | $2-3 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range) | $70-150 |
| 🛍️Grocery basket (weekly) | $40-80 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and sea views
- Compact town with easy day trips to Girona and the Costa Brava
- Can get crowded in peak summer
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "Gràcies" - Thank you
- "On és el lavabo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parlo una mica d'anglès" - I speak a little English
Places to Visit in Blanes
Visit one of these nice places.
Stunning coastal cliffs, lush Mediterranean plants, and sweeping sea panoramas.
Colorful boats and reflective water with warm evening light.
Clear turquoise water, golden sand, and rocky coves perfect for close-up seascapes.
A striking white church perched above dramatic waves and pine forest.
Food in Blanes
Blanes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Catalan fish stew with potatoes, garlic, tomatoes, and saffron.
Must-Try!
Shredded salt cod salad with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and olive oil.
Seafood rice cooked with saffron and tomatoes, a Costa Brava staple.
Noodles cooked like paella with seafood and a rich fish broth.
A creamy Catalan custard dessert with caramelized sugar.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The daily market offering fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and local specialties.
Casual stalls along the seafront offering grilled seafood, paellas, and small plates.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Speak politely with locals; Catalan is widely spoken in Blanes alongside Spanish. Greet with 'Bon día' or 'Buenos días' and be courteous.
Meals are a social affair; wait for everyone to be served before starting; keep voices moderate in public spaces.
Casual, comfortable attire is fine for beaches; modest dress when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Blanes
Ensure a smooth experience
In Spain tips are not mandatory but appreciated for good service; 5-10% at sit-down restaurants if service is not included.
Cards are widely accepted; carry some cash for small markets and street vendors; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny with crowded beaches; expect warm nights and lively seaside terraces. Bring sun protection and stay hydrated; book restaurants early.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming gardens; ideal for hiking and city strolls without the peak-season crowds.
Milder weather with occasional rain; sea remains warm enough for swimming into early fall.
Milder than much of Europe with less crowds; some attractions close on Mondays; expect cooler days but many sunny spells.
Blanes at Night
Hiking in Blanes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic coastal path with sea views and several coves along the way.
Gentle hillside trails with garden scenery and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Blanes by plane.
Approximately 30-40 minutes from Blanes by car; serves many seasonal and year-round routes.
About 60-90 minutes by road/train; major international hub with extensive connections.
Lesser-used regional airport about 1.5-2 hours away by car; service varies seasonally.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many families visit Blanes for beaches and kid-friendly activities.
Seasonal visitors from across Europe and beyond; lively but generally relaxed.
Residents who enjoy a mix of fishing heritage and tourism-driven commerce.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among locals and tourists; matches and pickup games near beaches and parks.
Coastal winds and sheltered coves make Blanes a good place for water sports.
Coastal road routes and nearby hills attract recreational cyclists.
Coastal and inland trails, including Camí de Ronda sections.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Blanes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants offer vegetarian tapas, vegetable-based dishes, and pasta; ask for 'vegetariano' or 'vegetariana' and look for seasonal vegetables.
Most places can accommodate with gluten-free options; mention 'sin gluten' and opt for grilled seafood, salads, and rice dishes.