Things To Do
in Mataró
Mataró is a Mediterranean city on the Maresme coast, just northeast of Barcelona, blending a historic old town with a lively seafront. It offers a mix of markets, beaches, and modernist touches, all set against scenic coastal views. The city is a convenient base for exploring the Maresme region and easy day trips to Barcelona.
With excellent food, a friendly hometown vibe, and accessible outdoor spaces, Mataró suits travelers who want both culture and coastal relaxation.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and coffee. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets of Mataró’s historic center, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit the Basilica de Santa Maria, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.
Savor a traditional Catalan lunch at a nearby restaurant, where you can try local specialties like 'escalivada' and 'fideuà'. After lunch, explore the local shops and boutiques, where you can find unique artisan crafts and souvenirs. End your afternoon at the Museu Arxiu de Mataró, learning about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
As the sun sets, head to the waterfront to enjoy a relaxing walk along the beach. Choose a seaside restaurant for dinner, where you can indulge in fresh seafood while listening to the sound of the waves. After dinner, consider enjoying a drink at a local bar, soaking in the vibrant nightlife of Mataró.
Begin your day at the beautiful Mataró Beach, where you can relax on the sandy shore and soak up the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a paddleboard or kayak to explore the calm waters. Enjoy a light breakfast from a nearby beachside café with fresh fruit and smoothies.
After some fun in the sun, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a beachside restaurant, sampling delicious tapas and refreshing drinks. Spend your afternoon trying out water sports like windsurfing or jet skiing for an adrenaline rush. If you prefer a more relaxing activity, take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
As night falls, treat yourself to a sunset dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can enjoy paella while watching the sky change colors. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, feeling the cool sand beneath your feet. If you're in the mood for some entertainment, check out local events or live music happening nearby.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🚆One-way public transit | $1.50-2.50 |
| 🏖Beach chair rental | $5-10 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal access and beaches
- Good food and markets
- Compact size makes it easy to explore on foot
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to Barcelona
- Can be busy in peak summer
- Limited direct international flights
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Gràcies" - Thank you
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "on és el lavabo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quant costa?" - How much does it cost?
Places to Visit in Mataró
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful boats, active fishing activity, and water reflections; ideal for sunrise or golden-hour shots.
Long seafront promenade with palm trees, modernist façades, and wide ocean views.
Narrow streets, stone walls, and charming squares perfect for street photography.
Golden sands and dune landscapes; great for wide-angle beach scenes at sunset.
Food in Mataró
Mataró Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Catalan fish stew rich with saffron and potatoes.
Must-Try!
Catalan salted cod salad with tomato, onion, olives, and olive oil.
Ripe tomato rubbed onto rustic bread with olive oil and a pinch of salt.
Roasted peppers and eggplant with onion and olive oil; often served with anchovies.
Seafood noodles cooked in a flavorful broth, similar to paella.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic market offering fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, and local specialties.
Vibrant market near the old town with daily stalls and ready-to-eat options.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Catalan and Spanish are widely spoken; greet with a friendly 'Bon dia' (Catalan) or 'Buenos días' (Spanish).
Meals start later in the day; tapas are commonly shared; keep noise to a respectful level in residential areas, especially at night.
Safety
Tipping in Mataró
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not mandatory; rounding up or leaving 5-10% for good service is common but not expected.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted; cash is still commonly used in markets and small establishments; contactless payments are popular.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures with blooming terraces; great for outdoor markets, strolls, and al fresco dining.
Warm to hot days with crowded beaches; evenings are lively with outdoor dining and music; stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
Milder days and occasional coastal showers; harvest festivals and city markets add color to the streets.
Mild but can be rainy; fewer crowds, making it a good time for museums, cafés, and coastal walks when weather permits.
Mataró at Night
Hiking in Mataró
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forested hills with scenic viewpoints and multiple hiking trails close to the coast.
Coastal hiking paths along the Maresme coast, offering sea views from Mataró toward Calella.
Airports
How to reach Mataró by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; about 30-45 minutes by train or car from Mataró.
Smaller airport serving northern Catalonia; longer transfer to Mataró.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A family-friendly city with parks, beaches, and good schools nearby.
Home to universities and training centers with active cafe culture and nightlife nearby.
Mix of native Catalans and Spaniards with a growing presence of expatriates and seasonal workers.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Extremely popular in the region with local clubs and matches; opportunities to watch or join amateur play.
Coastal location encourages sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing as common activities.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Mataró.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are common; look for escalivada, grilled vegetables, pa amb tomàquet, lentil or chickpea dishes, and clearly request no meat or fish in mixed dishes.