Figueres is a famous town in Costa Brava and is the capital of Alt Emporda, located on the north eastern part of Spain, about 20 km. from the border between France and Spain, about 150 km. from Barcelona Airport and 49 km. from Girona Airport. Figueres was the birthplace of the famous artist Salvador Dali.
What to Expect?
Figueres is a charming town known for its unique art and culture. It is the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, one of the most important artists of the 20th century, and the town boasts the Dalí Theatre-Museum, one of the most visited museums in Spain.
Figueres is famous for its culture and leisure attractions with fairs, local festivals and gastronomy. The historical centre of Figueres is worth a visit and see with its outstanding architectural heritage.
The Dali Theatre-Museum (where Dali is entombed, is the main attraction) is the most famous spot as well as the other museums such as the Toy Museum of Catalonia, the Museum of Emporda and the Emporda Technical Museum.
In addition, the parish church of Sant Pere and the castle-fortress of Sant Ferran is worth a visit and see.
Figueres hosts one of the best cycling and walking routes in Costa Brava. Figueres is also the birthplace of the sardana that is the traditional regional dance of Catalonia.
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Things to Do & See in Figueres…
Things to do and see in Figueres are endless. Majority of the best things to do and see in Costa Brava are listed in here.
Popular attractions and sights in Figueres include;
- The historical centre of Figueres,
- a stroll along the Rambla, its principal thoroughfare, always lively and flanked by attractive neoclassical and modernist buildings,
- the Dali Theatre-Museum,
- the Toy Museum of Catalonia,
- the Museum of Emporda,
- the Emporda Technical Museum,
- the parish church of Sant Pere,
- the castle-fortress of Sant Ferran,
- cycling and hiking.
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Top Attractions & Sights in Figueres for you…
The historical centre of Figueres
The historical center of Figueres is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this charming Catalan city. As the birthplace of Salvador Dalí and home to the renowned Dalí Theatre-Museum, Figueres is a hub of artistic and cultural activity. However, the city also boasts a rich history that can be explored in its historic center.
The center of Figueres is characterized by narrow streets lined with centuries-old buildings, many of which have been beautifully preserved. One of the most prominent structures is the Sant Ferran Castle, a massive 18th-century fortress that dominates the city’s skyline. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and explore its various rooms and courtyards.
The Plaça de l’Ajuntament, or City Hall Square, is another highlight of the historic center. This elegant square is surrounded by a number of important buildings, including the City Hall, the Casa Pujol, and the Casa Puig-Soler. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square and take in its impressive architecture.
Another must-visit attraction in the historic center is the Church of Saint Peter, a Gothic-style church that dates back to the 14th century. The church features stunning stained glass windows, a beautiful rose window, and a stunning altarpiece. Visitors can attend mass or simply admire the church’s intricate details.
For those interested in local history, the Figueres Museum is a great place to learn more about the city’s past. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from various periods in Figueres’ history, including prehistoric, Roman, and medieval artifacts. Visitors can also see a collection of Salvador Dalí’s early works, which provide a unique glimpse into the artist’s early development.
Rambla de Figueres
This tree-lined pedestrian street is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and is a great place to relax and people-watch.
Dali Theatre Museum
The Dali Theatre Museum is a must-see attraction in Figueres for art lovers and fans of Salvador Dali. The museum is housed in the former Municipal Theatre, which was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and later renovated by Dali himself to create a unique and surreal space that showcases his art.
Visitors can expect to see a variety of Dali’s works, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum also features a room dedicated to his jewelry designs and a crypt where Dali is buried.
The museum’s highlights include the Mae West room, which is shaped like the face of the actress and contains various pieces of furniture and artwork that form her features. Another highlight is the Rainy Taxi installation, which features a taxi with mannequins inside that appear to be submerged in water.
The museum is open year-round, but visitors should check the hours of operation before visiting as they can vary by season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum, but it is recommended to book in advance to avoid long lines.
The castle-fortress of Sant Ferran
This massive fortress is the largest monument in Catalonia, and one of the largest in Europe. It was built in the 18th century and is an impressive example of military architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle, which includes a walk along the ramparts and a visit to the underground tunnels.
The parish Church of Saint Peter
This beautiful church is located in the heart of the town and is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Catalonia. It was built in the 14th century and features a stunning rose window and a beautiful altarpiece.
Toy Museum of Catalonia
This museum is a fun attraction for visitors of all ages. It houses an impressive collection of toys from different periods, including dolls, board games, and toy cars. The museum is housed in a beautiful building and has interactive displays and workshops for children.
Museum of l’Emporda
The Museum of l’Emporda is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and history. Located in the heart of Figueres, this museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Emporda region of Catalonia through a collection of more than 20,000 works of art.
The museum’s collection includes pieces from various periods of art history, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Modernism. Visitors can admire a wide range of art, from sculptures and paintings to ceramics and jewelry. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that feature works from renowned artists.
The Museum of l’Emporda is housed in a historic building that has been beautifully restored to preserve its original character. The museum’s interior is spacious and well-lit, making it a pleasant place to explore. Visitors can take a guided tour or browse the exhibits on their own.
Cycling & Hiking
Figueres is a great destination for those who love cycling and hiking, thanks to its beautiful natural surroundings and well-maintained trails. Here are some of the top routes to explore:
- Greenway: The Greenway is a 55 km cycle and hiking route that runs along the old railway line from Olot to Sant Feliu de Guixols. This route is perfect for families and casual riders, as it is mostly flat and traffic-free.
- Volcanic Route: The Volcanic Route is a challenging 100 km cycle and hiking route that takes you through the stunning Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. This route is suitable for experienced riders and hikers and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
- Sant Ferran Castle: This historic castle is located just outside Figueres and is accessible by bike or on foot. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and the nearby trails are perfect for hiking and cycling.
- Montgrí Massif: The Montgrí Massif is a beautiful mountain range that offers a range of hiking and cycling trails. The area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and the views from the top of the mountain are truly breathtaking.
- Coastal Route: The Coastal Route is a popular cycle and hiking route that takes you along the beautiful Costa Brava coastline. The route is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Daily Tours & Excursions
Food & Drink
Figueres offers visitors a range of delicious food and drink options to suit all tastes and budgets. Local specialties include paella, tapas, and seafood, while international cuisine such as Italian and Chinese are also available. In the city center, visitors can find cozy cafes and restaurants, where they can enjoy a relaxing meal or a drink. For a more lively atmosphere, the city’s bars and nightclubs offer a range of cocktails and music.
Shopping
Figueres has a variety of shops, from small boutiques to large department stores. Visitors can find everything from designer clothing to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The city is known for its local markets, where visitors can purchase fresh produce and traditional Spanish goods. The most famous market is the Mercat del Ram, which takes place in the spring.
Nightlife
Figueres has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and nightclubs. The city’s nightlife is centered around the Old Town, where visitors can find traditional Spanish bars and trendy nightclubs. The city also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, where visitors can enjoy live music and entertainment.
Lodging
Figueres offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Visitors can choose to stay in the city center or in the surrounding areas. There are also a number of vacation rental properties available, which are ideal for families or larger groups.
Getting There
By Plane
If you’re traveling from further away, you can fly into the Girona-Costa Brava Airport, which is located approximately 50 kilometers from Figueres. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Figueres. Alternatively, you can fly into Barcelona El Prat Airport, which is approximately 140 kilometers away from Figueres, and then take a train or bus to Figueres.
By Car
Figueres is well-connected by road to the surrounding cities and towns. If you are coming from Barcelona, take the AP-7 motorway towards Girona and then continue on the N-II road to Figueres. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.
By Train
Figueres is also easily accessible by train. The Renfe train service operates several daily trains from Barcelona and Girona to Figueres. The journey from Barcelona takes approximately 2 hours, and from Girona, it takes around 25 minutes. From the train station, it is just a short walk to the city center.
By Bus
Another option is to take a bus to Figueres. The Sarfa bus company operates several daily services from Barcelona and Girona to Figueres. The journey from Barcelona takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, and from Girona, it takes around 40 minutes. The bus station is located in the city center, so it’s easy to get around once you arrive.