Things To Do
in Argentona

Argentona is a charming Catalan town set in the hillside Maresme, a short ride from the coast and Barcelona. It preserves a strong tradition of ceramics, visible in workshops and the local ceramics museum. Its narrow medieval streets, shaded squares, and welcoming cafés give it a relaxed, artsy vibe.

Surrounded by green hills and with easy access to beaches and natural parks, Argentona makes a great base for day trips and slow travel.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Begin your day with a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Argentona, taking in the beautiful architecture and charming local shops. Visit the nearby pottery workshops where you can see artisans at work and perhaps even try your hand at making your own piece. Don’t forget to stop by the Mercat Municipal for fresh local produce and regional specialties.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the Municipal Museum of Argentona to learn about the town’s rich history and traditions. After touring the museum, enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local cuisine restaurant, where you can savor the delightful flavors of Catalan dishes. Following lunch, take a walk in the Parc de les Prures, where you can unwind among nature.

evening
:

As the sun sets, soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Argentona’s town square as locals gather for food and conversation. Dine at a cozy bistro that offers a mix of traditional and modern dishes, complemented by a selection of local wines. End the night with a casual walk back to your accommodation, enjoying the calm ambiance of the village.

day 2
Nature Excursion
morning
:

Start your day early with a hike in the nearby Montnegre-Corredor Natural Park, where stunning views and rich biodiversity await. Pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy surrounded by nature and take some time to explore the adjacent trails. Breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the tranquility of the landscape.

afternoon
:

After your hike, return to Argentona for a hearty lunch at a restaurant that offers terrace seating with views of the hills. Spend your afternoon visiting some of the charming viewpoint spots around the town, perfect for taking photographs and relaxing. Perhaps engage in some light shopping, picking up local crafts and souvenirs.

evening
:

As evening falls, find a local tapas bar to enjoy a selection of small dishes and immerse yourself in the authentic culinary experience. Join the locals in the square for any lively events or concerts that may be happening, enjoying the community spirit. Cap off your night with a stroll under the stars, savoring the peacefulness of the evening.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$10-15
Coffee or drink at cafe$2-4
🧀Local cheese (1 lb / 0.45 kg)$6-9
🥖Loaf of bread$1-2
🚆One-way ticket (local transport)$1-3

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Charming historic town with a strong ceramics heritage
  • Close to the Costa Brava and Barcelona for day trips
  • Limited nightlife within the town
  • Smaller town with fewer large-scale amenities
  • "Bon dia" - Good morning
  • "Si us plau" - Please
  • "Gràcies" - Thank you
  • "Quant costa?" - How much does it cost?
  • "On és el bany?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Argentona

Visit one of these nice places.

Plaça de l’Església (Church Square)

Old church and stone houses framed by cypress trees; ideal for golden-hour photography and atmospheric street scenes.

Ceramic workshop backstreets

Colorful tiles, kilns, and workshop doors provide characterful detail shots and portraits.

Mirador from the hills above Argentona

Panoramic viewpoints offering sweeping views toward the coast on clear days.

Riera Street and Plaza del Ayuntamiento

Cobbled lanes, wrought-iron balconies, and market chatter make lively street photography settings.

Culinary Guide

Food in Argentona

Catalan cuisine in Argentona emphasizes seasonal produce, seafood from the coast, and rustic dishes that highlight regional flavors. Expect simple, ingredient-driven meals with a focus on fresh vegetables, olive oil, and oak-aged wines.

Argentona Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Esqueixada

A salted cod salad with tomatoes, onions, peppers, and olive oil; best found in traditional eateries by the town squares.

Must-Try!

Calçots

Grilled scallions served with romesco sauce (seasonal, typically in late winter to early spring).

Botifarra amb mongetes

Grilled Catalan sausage with white beans; a hearty, comforting dish common in local taverns.

Suquet de peix

Catalan fish stew featuring a mix of locally caught seafood and herbs.

Pa amb tomàquet

Ripe tomato rubbed onto rustic bread, seasoned with olive oil and salt; a staple accompaniment to most meals.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat Municipal d'Argentona

Local market offering fresh produce, fish, cheeses, and regional specialties; ideal for picking up picnic supplies.

Climate Guide

Weather

The area enjoys a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. Coastal breezes soften peak summer heat, while the hills experience cooler evenings. Spring and autumn bring pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

Greet with 'Bon dia' (good day) in the morning and ' Bona tarda' (good afternoon). A handshake is common in formal encounters; in casual settings a nod or a light kiss on the cheek may occur among friends.

Siesta and quiet hours

Some shops may close for a midday break; be respectful of quiet residential areas during siesta hours.

Safety Guide

Safety

Argentona is generally safe for travelers. Practice standard precautions against petty theft in crowded areas and keep valuables secure, especially in tourist spots and markets. In emergencies, dial 112 for medical or police assistance.

Tipping in Argentona

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated but not required. In casual dining, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is common; larger tips go to higher-end establishments if service is exceptional.

Payment Methods

Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; many places add a service charge only in higher-end venues.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer

Warm days with refreshing coastal breeze; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon; expect busier weekends near the coast.

Autumn

Milder temperatures with colorful hillsides; great for hikes and vineyard visits; occasional showers are possible.

Winter

Mild to cool with occasional rain; layering is key; ceramics studios and indoor venues provide warm escapes.

Spring

Blooming landscapes and pleasant temperatures; ideal for walking tours and photography around town.

Nightlife Guide

Argentona at Night

Argentona offers a low-key nightlife scene centered on cozy bars, terraces, and occasional live music in local venues. For more vibrant options, the nearby towns along the Maresme coast and Barcelona’s nightlife are a short ride away. Summer months bring outdoor concerts and market evenings, especially on weekends.

Hiking in Argentona

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Montnegre-Corrubell Natural Park trails

Forest trails with varying difficulty, offering pine, oak habitats and panoramic views of the region.

Airports

How to reach Argentona by plane.

Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN)

Main international airport serving the region; about 40–55 km from Argentona with rail and road connections.

Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO)

Smaller regional airport; roughly 110–120 km away; accessible by road or bus routes.

Getting Around

Walkability

The town center is compact and very walkable, with narrow pedestrian streets. Some outskirts and surrounding trails are hillier and best accessed by car or bike. Parking in the historic center can be limited during peak times.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local residents

Predominantly Catalan-speaking families and long-term locals with a strong sense of community.

Seasonal visitors

Tourists and second-home owners who visit mainly in summer and holiday periods.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Popular across towns in the region; local matches and clubs can be found in nearby towns.

Cycling

Favorable routes through hills and coastal lanes; widely enjoyed by locals and visitors.

Transportation

Traffic

Road travel includes the C-32 coastal corridor and regional roads; Rodalies/RENFE connections to Barcelona are available, with trains serving the broader Maresme area. Weekends and holiday periods can see higher traffic closer to the coast; city center parking can be limited.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Argentona.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Vegetarians can enjoy grilled vegetables, cheeses, legumes, and vegetable-forward dishes; ask for “sense carn” options and request simpler preparations when needed.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Public healthcare is available via local primary care centers. For more serious needs, hospitals are in nearby Mataró (Hospital de l'Alt Maresme) or Barcelona. If you have travel insurance, carry documentation and your European Health Insurance Card if applicable. Dial 112 for emergencies.

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