Things To Do
in Malgrat de Mar
Malgrat de Mar is a coastal town on the Costa del Maresme just north of Barcelona. It features a long sandy beach, a lively promenade, and a family friendly atmosphere. The town blends Catalan culture with modern beach resort amenities, making it easy to relax or explore.
It serves as a convenient base for exploring the Maresme coast and nearby historic towns.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Malgrat de Mar and check into your hotel. Take a leisurely stroll along the beautiful beach to shake off your travel fatigue. Enjoy a light breakfast at a beachside café, watching the waves roll in.
Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on the pristine sands of Playa de Malgrat. Try out some water sports like paddle boarding or jet skiing for an adrenaline rush. Grab a delicious lunch at a nearby seafood restaurant, savoring local dishes.
As the sun sets, take a picturesque walk along the promenade and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in dinner at a traditional Spanish tapas bar, sharing plates with new friends. End the night with a drink at a local bar, listening to live music.
Start your day with a walk through the charming streets of Malgrat de Mar, exploring quaint shops and cafes. Visit the historical Iglesia de Santa Maria, appreciating its beautiful architecture. Stop for a local pastry and coffee at a nearby bakery.
After lunch, head to the Parc del Castell for a peaceful afternoon amongst nature and scenic views. Explore the remains of the old castle and enjoy a picnic on the grassy lawns. Spend some time at the park's playground, watching the locals and soaking in the friendly vibe.
Enjoy a lovely dinner at a local pizzeria, where you can try authentic Italian dishes infused with Spanish flavors. Take a moonlit stroll along the beach, listening to the gentle sound of the waves. End your evening at a cozy café with a glass of local wine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two | $40-70 |
| 🚆Local transport day pass | $6-10 |
| 🏖️Beach chair and umbrella rental | $6-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close to Barcelona and other Costa Maresme towns
- Long sandy beaches and family friendly atmosphere
- Good value for money and relaxed pace
- Limited late night clubs compared to bigger cities
- Can get crowded in peak summer
- Some services and signs are in Catalan and Spanish only
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "Gràcies" - Thank you
- "On és el lavabo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parlen anglès?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Malgrat de Mar
Visit one of these nice places.
Long sandy beach ideal for sunrise silhouettes and wide seascapes.
Narrow streets, traditional balconies, and a picturesque church square for street photography.
Green spaces with coastline views and sunset vantage points.
Late afternoon light and boats on the water.
Food in Malgrat de Mar
Malgrat de Mar Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Grilled bread rubbed with tomato and garlic, drizzled with olive oil and salt.
Must-Try!
A fishermans fish stew with white fish, shellfish, potatoes and saffron.
Roasted peppers and eggplant layered with olive oil and garlic.
Grilled squid with lemon and herbs, a coastal staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Town market offering fresh produce, seafood, cheeses, and local snacks.
Casual stalls along the seafront serving grilled seafood, bocadillos, and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly Bon dia or Hola. A handshake or a kiss on each cheek is common among friends in casual settings.
Catalan is widely spoken; using a few basic phrases in Catalan is appreciated.
Tables may be reserved at restaurants; meals can be social affairs lasting hours; avoid loud behavior in religious sites.
Respect siesta and quiet hours in residential areas; dress modestly when visiting churches.
Safety
Tipping in Malgrat de Mar
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants a small tip of 5-10 percent is appreciated if service is not included. Rounding up the bill at casual venues is common.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted. Contactless payments and mobile wallets are common in urban areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and sunny, peak beach season, water activities are in full swing, expect crowds and higher prices.
Milder temperatures, occasional rain; great for hiking nearby and quieter beaches.
Mild Mediterranean winters, some attractions operate on reduced hours; good for escapes from the cold.
Pleasant temperatures, blooming gardens, ideal for outdoor activities and coastal walks.
Malgrat de Mar at Night
Hiking in Malgrat de Mar
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Several marked trails through pine forests with coastal views; suitable for easy to moderate hikers.
Cliff edge trails and beaches along the coast within short drives.
Airports
How to reach Malgrat de Mar by plane.
Main international gateway for the region, about 60-80 minutes by train or car to Malgrat de Mar.
Northeast airport serving regional flights, longer transfer to Malgrat de Mar.
Another option in Catalonia with limited flights, longer transfer.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many visitors come with children; family friendly beaches and activities.
Catalan families living in towns along the Maresme coast.
Tourists from the UK, France, Germany and other parts of Europe visiting in summer.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Spain and in the region, with local clubs and school programs.
Swimming, kayaking, sailing, windsurfing and paddleboarding along the coast.
Many routes along the coast and in nearby hills, popular with locals and visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Malgrat de Mar.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Catalan dishes are vegetable-forward. Look for escalivada, pa amb tomaquet, grilled vegetables, salads, and vegetarian set menus. When unsure, ask for simpler dishes like pasta with tomato sauce.