Palamós Travel Guide: Discover the Heart of the Costa Brava

Palamós is one of the most attractive seaside towns on Spain’s Costa Brava. Located in the province of Girona in Catalonia, this vibrant destination combines beautiful beaches, a historic fishing port, excellent seafood, and a rich cultural heritage. Unlike some purpose-built holiday resorts, Palamós has retained its authentic character while offering all the facilities visitors need for a memorable holiday.

The town is particularly famous for its fishing industry and its prized Palamós prawns, which are considered among the finest seafood delicacies in Spain. At the same time, visitors can enjoy sandy beaches, scenic coastal walks, historic landmarks, and easy access to nearby destinations such as Palafrugell, Begur, and Girona.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, a gastronomic escape, or a base for exploring the Costa Brava, Palamós is an excellent choice throughout the year.

What to see and do

Palamós offers a wide variety of attractions and activities. From historic sites to stunning beaches, there is something for every type of traveller.

Visit the Fishing Museum

One of the town’s most important attractions is the Fishing Museum. Located beside the harbour, it is the only museum in Spain dedicated entirely to the fishing industry.

The museum explains the history of fishing in the Mediterranean and highlights the importance of the sea to Palamós. Interactive exhibits make it suitable for visitors of all ages.

Explore the fishing port

The fishing port remains the heart of Palamós. Visitors can watch fishing boats return with their daily catch and experience the lively atmosphere of a working harbour.

The daily fish auction is particularly interesting and provides a glimpse into one of the town’s most important traditions.

Relax on Platja Gran

Platja Gran is the main beach in Palamós. This long stretch of golden sand sits close to the town centre and offers calm waters, excellent facilities, and beautiful views across the bay.

It is an ideal choice for families, swimmers, and anyone looking to relax beside the Mediterranean Sea.

Discover Castell Beach

The unspoilt Platja de Castell is one of the most beautiful beaches on the Costa Brava. Surrounded by pine forests and protected from development, it offers a natural setting that is increasingly rare along the Mediterranean coast.

The beach is perfect for swimming, walking, and enjoying spectacular coastal scenery.

Walk the Camí de Ronda

The famous Camí de Ronda coastal path passes through Palamós and offers some of the finest walking routes on the Costa Brava. Sections of the trail connect beaches, coves, and viewpoints while providing breathtaking sea views.

The walk towards Palafrugell and Calella de Palafrugell is particularly popular.

Visit Sant Esteve Church

The Church of Sant Esteve is one of the town’s main historical landmarks. Although parts of the building have been rebuilt over the centuries, it remains an important symbol of Palamós and its heritage.

Explore the old town

The historic centre features attractive squares, narrow streets, and traditional Catalan architecture. Walking through the old town allows visitors to discover local shops, cafés, and restaurants away from the busier beach areas.

Enjoy local seafood

No visit to Palamós would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. The town is famous for its red prawns, known as Gambes de Palamós. Many restaurants serve freshly caught seafood prepared using traditional recipes.

Food lovers will find plenty of excellent dining options throughout the town.

Local festivals and traditions

Palamós hosts numerous cultural events and celebrations throughout the year. These festivals provide an excellent opportunity to experience local traditions.

Festa Major

The Festa Major takes place every June and celebrates the town’s patron saint. The festival includes concerts, parades, fireworks, sporting events, and cultural activities.

Both residents and visitors participate in the celebrations, creating a lively atmosphere.

Seafood Gastronomy Campaigns

Given Palamós’ strong fishing heritage, food festivals play an important role in local culture. Throughout the year, special events showcase local seafood and regional cuisine.

The famous Palamós prawn often takes centre stage during these celebrations.

Traditional Catalan customs

Visitors may encounter sardana dancing, castells (human towers), and traditional music performances during local festivals. These customs remain an important part of Catalan identity.

Christmas celebrations

During the festive season, the town hosts Christmas markets, concerts, and family-friendly activities. The seafront and old town are beautifully decorated, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Where to stay

Palamós offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different travel styles and budgets.

Town centre

Staying in the town centre provides easy access to restaurants, shops, the harbour, and the main beach. It is ideal for visitors who enjoy exploring on foot.

Platja Gran area

The area around Platja Gran is perfect for beach lovers. Many hotels and apartments are located within walking distance of the sand and offer sea views.

Port Marina district

The marina area appeals to visitors seeking modern accommodation and easy access to waterfront restaurants. It also provides a pleasant atmosphere during the evening.

La Fosca

La Fosca is a quieter residential and beach area located east of the town centre. It offers a more relaxed environment while remaining close to major attractions.

This area is particularly popular with families.

Castell and countryside surroundings

Visitors looking for peace and nature can stay near Platja de Castell or in the surrounding countryside. Rural accommodation options offer tranquillity while remaining within easy reach of the coast.

How to get to Palamós

Palamós is well connected to the rest of Catalonia and can be reached using several forms of transport.

By air

The nearest airport is Girona-Costa Brava Airport, located approximately 45 kilometres from Palamós. The airport serves a range of European destinations.

Many international travellers also use Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which is around 130 kilometres away and offers a much wider choice of flights.

By train

Palamós does not have its own railway station. However, visitors can travel by train to Girona, Flaçà, or Caldes de Malavella before continuing by bus, taxi, or hire car.

Rail services are operated by Renfe, Spain’s national railway company.

By bus

Regular bus services connect Palamós with Girona, Barcelona, and other Costa Brava destinations. Bus travel is often the most convenient public transport option for reaching the town directly.

By car

Driving to Palamós is straightforward thanks to good road connections. The journey from Girona takes approximately 45 minutes, while Barcelona can be reached in around 1 hour and 45 minutes.

If you are already in Spain, you can click here to get directions from your current location.

Palamós successfully combines authentic Catalan culture, beautiful beaches, exceptional seafood, and a rich maritime heritage. Whether you spend your time exploring the coastline, sampling local cuisine, or discovering nearby Costa Brava towns, Palamós offers an unforgettable experience that captures the true spirit of the Mediterranean.