Things To Do
in Castelló de Ampurias
Castelló d'Empúries, often referred to as Castelló de Ampurias, is a quiet Catalan town on the Costa Brava where medieval lanes meet a shimmering Mediterranean coastline. It sits beside the Empúries archaeological site, linking ancient Greek and Roman history to a picturesque coastal town. The winding stone streets, whitewashed houses, and harbor views create a relaxed, walkable atmosphere ideal for day trips and coastal dining.
Visitors can explore ancient ruins, stroll along the old walls, and savor seafood with a Catalan twist along the waterfront.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Castelló de Empúries and settle into your charming accommodation. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic streets, marveling at medieval architecture and quaint shops. Stop by the main square to enjoy a traditional Spanish breakfast at a local café.
Visit the intriguing 14th-century Basilica of Santa Maria, absorbing its stunning Gothic details and serene atmosphere. Continue your exploration with a guided tour of the nearby Natural Park Aiguamolls de l'Empordà, where you can spot local wildlife. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a tapas bar, sampling local dishes and wines.
Dine at a rustic restaurant in the old town, relishing fresh seafood and Catalan specialties. After dinner, unwind with a glass of local wine at a terrace overlooking the canals, soaking in the tranquil ambiance. Stroll through the softly lit streets, enjoying the peaceful charm of Castelló de Empúries at night.
Join a guided walking tour to delve deeper into the history and culture of Castelló de Empúries. Visit the Museu de les Cultures del Vi as you learn about the region’s winemaking history. Engage with locals and hear stories about the town’s past while enjoying the vibrant morning atmosphere.
Spend your afternoon visiting the impressive ruins of Empúries, where ancient Greek and Roman settlements await you. Walk along the coast, taking in breathtaking sea views and reflecting on the historical significance of this archaeological site. Stop at a beachside café for a light seafood lunch, relaxed against a backdrop of ocean waves.
Experience a traditional Catalan cooking class, allowing you to immerse yourself in local cuisine. Prepare and enjoy your meal alongside vibrant conversation with fellow participants, sharing culinary tips and cultural anecdotes. End the evening with a walk by the beach, where you can spot the stars twinkling over the Mediterranean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| 🍽️Combo or mid-range restaurant for two | $25-40 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short distance) | $6-10 |
| 🛒Groceries (basic weekly shop) | $30-60 |
| 🏨Hotel or vacation rental (night in mid-range) | $100-140 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and manageable town size
- Rich archaeological and medieval heritage with nearby Empúries ruins
- High-quality seafood and Catalan cuisine
- Walkable center and easy day trips to the Costa Brava
- Limited nightlife within the town itself
- Parking can be challenging in peak season
- Some larger services and attractions are outside the town and require a short drive
- Seasonal tourism can make some markets and shops crowded in summer
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "Gràcies" - Thank you
- "Quant costa?" - How much does it cost?
- "Parla anglès?" - Do you speak English?
- "On és el lavabo?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Castelló de Ampurias
Visit one of these nice places.
Ancient Greek and Roman ruins perched above a dramatic coastline, ideal for sunrise or sunset silhouettes.
Stone ramparts and a historic gate with sea views and atmospheric lighting at dusk.
Colorful boats, nets, and reflections along the quay—great for golden hour shots.
Cobbled square with a church and arcades, perfect for candid street photography and architecture.
Wide sandy beach with expansive horizons and early-morning swimmers and joggers.
Food in Castelló de Ampurias
Castelló de Ampurias Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A hearty fish stew made with白 fish, shellfish, garlic, saffron, and potatoes.
Must-Try!
Roasted peppers, onions, and eggplant drizzled with olive oil.
A flavorful seafood rice dish cooked in fish stock and served with aioli.
Grilled squid seasoned with lemon and parsley, very common along the coast.
A classic Catalan dessert similar to crème brûlée to finish the meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh seafood, vegetables, cheeses, and regional products.
Seasonal waterfront stalls selling grilled fish, fried calamari, and snacks to go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with 'Bon dia' (good day) or 'Hola'; polite requests with 'si us plau' (please) and 'gràcies' (thank you).
Dress modestly when visiting churches or religious sites; remove hats indoors and speak softly in sacred spaces.
Casual conversation is friendly; avoid loud talking in streets at night near residential areas.
Be mindful around working harbor areas and during local fishing seasons.
Safety
Tipping in Castelló de Ampurias
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. Rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common in nicer venues.
Cash and debit/credit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. Some smaller establishments may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming landscapes; great for hiking and photography. Expect occasional showers but pleasant overall.
Hot, sunny, and busy with beachgoers and markets. Bring sun protection, stay hydrated, and take advantage of cooler evenings for strolls.
Warm seas early on with fewer crowds. Harvests in local markets and comfortable outdoor activities, with occasional rain.
Mild to cool, with many attractions open but beaches quieter. Cloudy days can be drizzly; ideal for cultural visits and coastal scenery.
Castelló de Ampurias at Night
Hiking in Castelló de Ampurias
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Easy coastal walk linking Empúries ruins with scenic beaches; ideal for a half-day hike.
Dramatic coastal hikes with rugged cliffs and sea panoramas; best as a full-day outing.
Ridge trails and panoramic views of the gulf; moderate to challenging depending on route.
Airports
How to reach Castelló de Ampurias by plane.
Approximately 40–60 minutes by car; serves several European destinations and rental car options for onward travel.
About 1–1.5 hours by car; convenient for visitors from parts of France and nearby regions.
Approximately 1.5–2.5 hours by car or train; major international hub with extensive connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Longstanding residents who maintain Catalan language and traditions; warm and family-oriented community.
Spanish travelers and visitors from across Catalonia who visit for beaches, culture, and food.
Tourists from France, the UK, Germany, and other parts of Europe attracted by the Costa Brava's history and coastline.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played and watched across the region; local clubs and schools promote the sport.
Popular in coastal towns with courts available for visitors and locals alike.
Kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing are common along the coast.
Rural roads and scenic routes attract cyclists seeking coastal and countryside routes.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Castelló de Ampurias.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include escalivada, salads, roasted vegetables, pa amb tomàquet, and vegetable risotto; most places can accommodate with pasta or veggie-focused dishes.