Calella
,Calella is a charming coastal town located in the Catalonia region of Spain, known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant nightlife. The town offers a mix of traditional Spanish culture and modern amenities, with a picturesque historic center filled with colorful buildings and bustling shops and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy water activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and water sports along the town's lively beachfront promenade.
Calella also hosts various cultural events and festivals throughout the year, making it a popular destination for both tourists and locals alike.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day plans
Spend a day exploring around
Beach Bliss
morning
:Start your day with a refreshing swim at Calella Beach. Enjoy coffee and pastries at a nearby café while soaking in the sun.
afternoon
:Explore the vibrant local shops along the promenade, perfect for picking up souvenirs. Have lunch at a beachfront restaurant with fresh seafood options.
evening
:Stroll along the beach as the sun sets, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink. Indulge in a delicious dinner at a tapas bar for a taste of local cuisine.
Historical Discovery
morning
:Visit the beautiful 16th-century Church of Santa Maria, an architectural gem in the heart of Calella. Take a walking tour to learn about the town's fascinating history.
afternoon
:Head to the Calella Museum to discover exhibits that tell the story of the area's maritime past. Stop by a local café for a light lunch and enjoy the inviting atmosphere.
evening
:Explore the winding streets of the old town, with its charming architecture and vibrant community. Have dinner at a traditional Spanish restaurant to round out your day.
Highlights
Good
- Beautiful beaches and Mediterranean climate
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local festivals
- Proximity to Barcelona for day trips
- Variety of outdoor activities including hiking and watersports
- Lively nightlife and diverse dining options
Bad
- Can be crowded during peak tourist season
- Higher prices for accommodations and dining in summer
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities
- Some areas may be overly commercialized
- Language barrier for non-Spanish speakers
Outdoor Activities
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Beach activities
Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water sports at Calella's beautiful beaches.
Hiking
Explore the scenic coastal trails and natural areas surrounding Calella.
Cycling
Ride along the coastal roads or explore the countryside through various cycling routes.
Water activities
Try out snorkeling, diving, paddle boarding, or kayaking in the clear waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Golf
Play golf at nearby golf courses such as the Golf Sant Vicenç de Montalt.
Tennis
Enjoy a game of tennis at the local clubs or courts.
Waterside dining
Savor delicious seafood and Mediterranean cuisine at waterfront restaurants.
Sightseeing
Visit historical sites, landmarks, and cultural attractions in and around Calella.
Adventures
Uncover the best of Calella with these unforgettable adventures.
Attractions
Visit one of these nice places.
Calella Lighthouse
Offers panoramic views of the sea and surrounding area
Santa Maria and Sant Nicolau Church
Provides a picturesque backdrop for photographs
Passeig Marítim
A waterfront promenade with beautiful views of the beach and coastline
Cuisine
Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Paella
A classic Spanish dish, paella in Calella is a must-try with its aromatic saffron-infused rice and various mixtures of seafood, chicken, rabbit, or vegetables. For an authentic experience, head to Restaurant Can Roig or El Hogar Gallego.
Must-Try!
Crema Catalana
Indulge in this delightful Catalan version of crème brûlée, boasting a creamy custard base with a caramelized sugar crust. Savor this delectable dessert at La Llar de Foc or La Ola.
Fideuà
Fideuà is a seafood-based dish similar to paella, but made with short strands of pasta instead of rice. Visit Restaurant Maritim or Granja Sant Jordi for a fantastic rendition of this local specialty.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Calella better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Mercat de Calella
Explore the bustling Mercat de Calella to discover a vibrant array of local produce, meats, cheeses, and fresh seafood. The market also offers delectable street food options such as churros, empanadas, and fried seafood.
Calella Night Market
In the evenings, the Calella Night Market comes to life, offering an exciting variety of street food stalls where you can sample traditional Spanish bites like tapas, churros, and grilled meats.
Weather
How To Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect for siesta time
In Calella, it is important to be mindful of the siesta time, which usually falls between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Many businesses may close during this time, and it is customary to keep noise levels down in residential areas.
Greetings and introductions
When meeting someone in Calella, it is customary to greet them with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Additionally, it is polite to use formal titles such as 'Señor' (Mr.) and 'Señora' (Mrs.) when addressing people until invited to use their first names.
Respect for local traditions and festivals
Calella hosts various festivals and cultural events throughout the year. It is important to show respect for these traditions and participate with an open mind, understanding the significance these events hold for the local community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Calella with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping & Payment
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping
In Calella, Spain, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated for good service. It is common to leave a small tip (around 5-10%) at restaurants, especially if the service was excellent. Tipping in other service industries such as hotels, taxis, and tour guides is also appreciated but not expected.
Payment
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Calella, Spain, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. However, it is always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases and for places that may not accept cards. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Best Activities
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Calella.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring
Best time to visit for warm weather and blooming flora. Expect pleasant temperatures and lively local festivals.
Summer
Ideal for beach lovers with hot and sunny weather. Expect crowded beaches and vibrant nightlife.
Autumn
Great for outdoor activities with cooler temperatures. Expect fewer tourists and comfortable weather for exploring.
Winter
Mild weather and fewer crowds. Expect a quieter atmosphere and opportunities for cultural experiences.
Nightlife
Hiking Spots Nearby
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Montnegre i el Corredor Natural Park
A natural park located just north of Calella, offering a variety of trails through lush forests and stunning views of the Mediterranean.
Cami de Ronda
A scenic coastal path that runs along the beach from Calella to the nearby town of Pineda de Mar, ideal for hiking with beautiful sea views.
Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park
A bit further inland, this park features unique volcanic landscapes, dense beech forests, and numerous hiking trails.
Montserrat Mountain
About an hour's drive from Calella, Montserrat offers impressive rock formations and a range of hiking trails with breathtaking views.
Sant Joan de Vilatorrada
Near Calella, this area provides several hiking routes through natural settings, including rivers and hills, perfect for nature lovers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Calella through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports Nearby
How to reach Calella by plane.
Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN)
Main international airport serving Barcelona, approximately 72 km from Calella.
Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO)
International airport located approximately 30 km from Calella, serving mainly low-cost airlines.
Reus Airport (REU)
International airport located about 90 km from Calella, mainly serving the Tarragona region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Spanish
The majority population of Calella, primarily composed of native Catalan and Spanish speakers.
Other European Communities
Includes residents from various European countries, such as Italy, France, and the UK, attracted by Calella's tourism and lifestyle.
Latin American
A significant number of residents have origins from Latin American countries, particularly Argentina and Colombia.
African
A smaller but notable group from various African nations, contributing to the cultural diversity of the town.
Asian
Includes immigrants from Asian countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Calella.
The Soul of Calella
Discover the essence of Calella through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer
Soccer is incredibly popular in Calella, with numerous local clubs and a strong community support for both amateur and professional levels.
Basketball
Basketball enjoys popularity in Calella, with several teams participating in local leagues and tournaments.
Cycling
Due to the scenic routes and pleasant weather, cycling is a favored sport for both leisure and competitive athletes in Calella.
Beach Volleyball
The beaches of Calella are ideal for beach volleyball, making it a popular summer sport among locals and tourists.
Swimming
With access to the Mediterranean Sea, swimming is a popular activity in Calella, both recreationally and competitively.
Running
Calella's coastal paths and parks provide excellent running routes, attracting many enthusiasts to the sport.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Many restaurants in Calella offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, with options ranging from fresh salads and vegetable paella to creative plant-based tapas. Notable spots include Els Garbins and Restaurant Can Peret.
Gluten-Free Offerings
Those with gluten intolerance will find accommodating choices in Calella, with several establishments providing gluten-free versions of traditional dishes and dedicated menus. Visit La Gruta or Restaurant Pepe's for delicious gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Calella with these cultural adventures.