Palamos is a lovely coastal town in Costa Brava, in the municipality of Baix Empordà, located on the north eastern coast of Spain, about 108 km. from Barcelona Airport and 38 km. from Girona Airport. It is a lively resort famous for its beaches, marina, Palamos prawns, culture, old town, megalithic monuments and leisure time attractions.
What to Expect?
Palamos has become a popular destination for tourists due to its beautiful beaches, historic buildings, and lively atmosphere. The town is a great choice for travelers who want to experience authentic Catalan culture and enjoy the Mediterranean lifestyle.
The town is easily recognizable by its traditional fishing boats, which are still used to catch fresh seafood. Palamos has a charming old town with narrow streets and a beautiful seafront promenade, where visitors can stroll, dine, or relax with a drink while taking in the stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.
Palamos has a rich history, with many notable landmarks to explore. The Gothic church of Sant Joan, built in the 14th century, is an impressive example of Catalan architecture. The Palamos Castle, located on a hilltop, offers spectacular views of the town and the surrounding area. Visitors can also discover the local fishing history by visiting the Fishing Museum, which features exhibits on the traditional fishing techniques used in the area.
Things to Do & See in Palamos…
Things to do and see in Palamos are endless. The town offers a variety of activities for all types of travelers. Beach lovers will be spoiled for choice with the long sandy beaches, such as La Fosca or Castell, which are perfect for sunbathing and swimming.
Water sports enthusiasts can try out activities such as paddleboarding, kayaking, or windsurfing. Palamos is also a great destination for hiking, as it is surrounded by natural parks with a wide range of trails. Popular attractions and sights include;
- Beaches,
- Marina,
- sailing, windsurfing,
- the old town,
- 16th century Gothic church of Santa Maria,
- the small medieval quarter,
- the residential areas of La Fosca,
- Cala S´Alguer and Cala de Castell.
Popular beaches include; La Fosca beach is the main of beach of the resort. Holidaymakers may enjoy a drink of something nice in one of the numerous beachside bars known as “Chiringuitos”.
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Top Attractions & Sights in Palamos for you…
La Fosca beach
La Fosca Beach is a beautiful sandy beach located in the town of Palamós. The beach is about 1 kilometer long and 50 meters wide, making it one of the largest and most popular beaches in the area.
The beach is characterized by its fine golden sand and crystal-clear waters, which make it ideal for swimming and sunbathing. It is also a great spot for water sports like windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There are several beachside cafes, restaurants, and bars, where you can enjoy local cuisine, drinks, and snacks.
The beach is surrounded by a natural park area with pine trees, making it a perfect location for walking, hiking, and cycling. Along the coast, there are many coves and rocky outcrops that are worth exploring. You can also take a boat tour to discover the nearby hidden beaches and sea caves.
La Fosca beach is family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty during the peak season, and plenty of facilities such as showers, toilets, and parking. The beach is accessible by public transport, car, and bike.
Marina Palamos
Marina Palamos is a modern marina located on the Costa Brava in the town of Palamos. It is a popular destination for boaters, offering easy access to some of the most beautiful beaches and coves in the area. The marina has excellent facilities, including mooring services, showers, toilets, and laundry facilities. It also offers a wide range of services for boaters, including repair and maintenance, fuel, and a well-stocked chandlery.
The marina is located in the center of town, making it an excellent location for visitors who want to explore Palamos. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars within walking distance of the marina, and the town is known for its excellent seafood cuisine. The marina is also a short distance from some of the area’s most beautiful beaches and coves, making it an excellent base for beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
16th century Gothic church
Palamos is home to a stunning 16th-century Gothic church, known as the Church of Santa Maria del Mar.
The church features an impressive facade and an interior adorned with ornate details and beautiful stained-glass windows. It is a must-visit for those interested in history and architecture, and is a popular spot for taking in the town’s unique charm and atmosphere.
Windwurfing
Palamos is a great destination for windsurfing enthusiasts. With its long stretches of beaches, clear waters, and consistent winds, the area offers perfect conditions for this thrilling water sport.
There are several spots along the Palamos coastline that are ideal for windsurfing, including La Fosca, Platja Gran, and Cala S’Alguer. These beaches offer a range of conditions, from calm waters for beginners to choppy waves for more advanced riders.
For those who are new to windsurfing, there are several windsurfing schools in the area that offer lessons and equipment rental. These schools provide experienced instructors who can teach beginners the basics of windsurfing, such as how to balance on the board, catch the wind, and maneuver the sail.
Daily Tours & Excursions
Food & Drink
When it comes to food and drink in Palamos, seafood is the star of the show. Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of fresh seafood dishes, including grilled octopus, paella, and fideua. Many restaurants in Palamos are located along the seafront, providing diners with stunning views of the Mediterranean as they enjoy their meal.
Shopping
For those looking to do some shopping, Palamos has several options, including a local market that sells fresh produce and handmade crafts. Visitors can also find clothing boutiques and souvenir shops throughout the town.
Nightlife
When the sun goes down, Palamos has a laid-back nightlife scene. Visitors can enjoy a cocktail at one of the beachfront bars or catch a live music performance at a local venue.
Lodging
Palamos has a range of options to suit all budgets, including hotels, hostels, and vacation rentals. Many accommodations are located just steps away from the beach, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the sun and sand during their stay.
Getting There
By Air
If you are traveling from abroad, the nearest airports to Palamos are Girona-Costa Brava Airport and Barcelona-El Prat Airport. From Girona-Costa Brava Airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to Palamos. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes. From Barcelona-El Prat Airport, you can take a train or a bus to Girona and then transfer to a bus or a taxi to Palamos.
By Car
Palamos is easily accessible by car, with the main routes being the AP-7 motorway and the C-31 road. If you are traveling from Barcelona, take the AP-7 motorway and then exit at junction 9 for Palamos. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you are traveling from Girona, take the C-65 road to the C-31 and follow the signs to Palamos. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes.
By Bus
If you prefer to travel by public transport, there are regular buses that connect Palamos with the neighboring towns and cities. The bus company Sarfa offers daily services from Barcelona, Girona, and other nearby towns. You can check the timetable and purchase your ticket online or at the bus station.
By Train
Although Palamos does not have a train station, the nearby cities of Girona and Figueres have excellent train connections with other major cities in Spain. From Girona or Figueres, you can take a bus or a taxi to Palamos. The journey takes approximately 30 minutes from Girona and 45 minutes from Figueres.