Things To Do
in Canovellas
Canovelles is a small Catalan town in the Vallès Oriental, about 25 kilometers northeast of Barcelona. It sits close to Granollers and the Montseny foothills, offering easy access to both city comforts and countryside charm. The town blends traditional Catalan architecture with modern services, including markets, cafes, and family-friendly spaces.
As a convenient base for exploring the region, Canovelles combines a relaxed pace with good rail and road links to the coast and the hills.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Canovellas and settle into your accommodation, embracing the charming local atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a quaint café, delighting in fresh pastries and coffee. Take a stroll around the town center, admiring the local architecture and vibrant street life.
Visit the nearby Parc de la Mitjana for a relaxing picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Explore the park's trails, enjoying the serene environment and local wildlife. Make your way to Canovellas' historical landmarks, including the Church of Sant Esteve, to learn about the town's rich history.
Dine at a traditional Spanish restaurant, savoring authentic dishes paired with local wines. Enjoy the lively ambiance as you interact with locals and get recommendations for the next day. End the evening with a leisurely walk through the town, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Take a short trip to Montmela for a morning of hiking, enjoying stunning views of the Catalan countryside. As you trek through lush trails, breathe in the fresh air and capture memorable photographs of the natural beauty. Pack a light snack to enjoy at a panoramic viewpoint overlooking Canovellas.
Return to Canovellas and enjoy lunch at a local pizzeria, offering delicious, handcrafted pizzas. Post-lunch, head to a nearby vineyard for a wine tasting tour, learning about wine production and sampling various wines. Engage with the winemaker and appreciate the beauty of the vineyard setting.
Relish a charming dinner at a rooftop restaurant, experiencing the sunset over the hills. Savor a multi-course meal, featuring seasonal ingredients and innovative dishes. Wind down with a night stroll through the town, experiencing the lively atmosphere and perhaps finding a local music performance.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee and pastry | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $30-60 |
| 🚌Public transit day pass | $5-10 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $70-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful small-town charm with Catalan character
- Proximity to Montseny and Barcelona for day trips
- Good value for money and family-friendly amenities
- Calm, safe environment ideal for relaxed travel
- Limited nightlife and big-city attractions within town
- Public transport less frequent on weekends; requires planning
- Smaller selection of high-end dining compared to Barcelona
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "Gràcies" - Thank you
- "On és el bany?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Quant costa?" - How much does this cost?
- "Parles anglès?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Canovellas
Visit one of these nice places.
Historic square with the local church, framed by stone buildings and outdoor cafés, ideal for golden-hour shots.
Paved paths along the river with willow trees, perfect for reflective water photos and people-watching.
Narrow lanes and traditional Catalan façades offer charming architectural detail and texture for street photography.
Food in Canovellas
Canovellas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Sweet spring onions grilled and served with romesco sauce; best tasted during the Calçotada season (late winter to early spring).
Must-Try!
Charred vegetables (eggplant, peppers, onions) dressed with olive oil and salt, often served with anchovies or tuna.
Grilled Catalan sausage with white beans, a classic countryside dish.
Catalan fish stew made with fresh seafood and potatoes, reflecting the region’s coastal flavors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering fresh produce, cheeses, olives, and local specialties in the town center.
Casual bars around the square offer tapas, sandwiches, and small plates ideal for a quick bite.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a polite 'Bon dia' (good day) in Catalan or 'bona tarda' depending on the time; Spanish is widely understood.
Mealtimes are social; avoid speaking loudly in public spaces; modest dress in religious sites.
Respect personal space; tipping is optional and usually based on service quality.
Safety
Tipping in Canovellas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; rounding up the bill or leaving 5-10% for good service is common practice.
Cash and card payments are widely accepted; contactless payments are common; some small vendors may prefer cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, dry days prevail; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Mild days with refreshing evenings; changing foliage and harvest markets bring color and flavor to the town.
Cool but typically mild, with occasional rain; excellent for museum visits and cozy cafés.
Pleasant temperatures and blooming landscapes; ideal for hiking around Montseny and scenic walks in town.
Canovellas at Night
Hiking in Canovellas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several routes ranging from easy strolls to challenging hikes with scenic viewpoints and forest scenery.
Rugged terrain and cliff vistas offering dramatic photo opportunities and varied terrain.
Airports
How to reach Canovellas by plane.
Major international airport about 40-60 minutes by car or rail from Canovelles.
Secondary airport about 1.5 hours by car or rail; convenient for northern coastal trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Suburban families attracted by schools, parks, and a safe community feel.
Many residents travel daily to Barcelona or Granollers for work.
Quiet neighborhoods with access to healthcare and community activities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region follows the Catalan passion for football with local club matches on weekends.
Flat and rolling rural roads attract recreational cyclists and training routes.
Local clubs offer courts and lessons for visitors and residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Canovellas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most restaurants offer vegetable-driven options, and many menus include dishes with grilled vegetables, salads, and legumes; ask for the day’s vegetarian specials.
Many places can accommodate with naturally gluten-free dishes; communicate dietary needs to staff and look for fish, vegetables, and rice-based dishes.
Vegan choices may be limited; opt for fresh salads, roasted vegetables, legumes, and olive-oil-based sauces; confirm ingredients like broths or sauces contain no animal products.