Things To Do
in San Felíu de Guixols

Sant Feliu de Guíxols sits on the Costa Brava with a charming harbor, a historic old town, and scenic coastal viewpoints. The town blends Catalan culture with Mediterranean seaside vibes, making it ideal for wandering, eating, and soaking up island-like sunsets. Its palm-lined promenades and cliffside trails offer accessible beauty for visitors of all ages.

With a friendly, small-town atmosphere and easy access to nearby Costa Brava highlights, it’s a great base for a relaxed coastal escape.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival and Beach Relaxation
morning
:

Arrive at San Felíu de Guixols and settle into your accommodation. After unpacking, take a stroll along the beautiful coastline to soak in the Mediterranean atmosphere. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, indulging in fresh pastries and coffee.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon lounging on the soft sands of Platja de Sant Pol, where you can rent a sunbed and umbrella. For the adventurous, try your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking in the calm, inviting waters. Grab a light lunch at a beach shack offering fresh seafood dishes.

evening
:

As sunset approaches, enjoy a scenic walk along the promenade, watching the sky transform into vibrant hues. Select a beachside restaurant for dinner, where you can savor local specialties like paella. End the evening with a delightful ice cream from a nearby gelateria.

day 2
Exploring the Town
morning
:

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at a local bakery, sampling traditional Spanish breads and pastries. Afterward, visit the Monastery of Sant Feliu, a historical gem that offers a glimpse into the region's rich heritage. Wander around the charming old town’s narrow streets, admiring the colorful buildings and local shops.

afternoon
:

In the afternoon, head to the local market to explore a variety of artisanal products and fresh produce. Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture by mingling with residents and perhaps sampling some gourmet delicacies. After your market adventure, take a break at a nearby café, sipping on a refreshing beverage.

evening
:

As twilight falls, find a local bar to enjoy some tapas paired with a traditional Spanish wine. The lively atmosphere will enhance your experience while mingling with locals and tourists alike. Complete your evening by catching a live music performance or dance show in the town square.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant$12-18
🧃Coffee$3-5
🍷Glass of wine$4-8
🚖Taxi (1 km)$4-6
🛍️Milk (1 liter)$1-2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastline and historic town center
  • Excellent seafood and Catalan cuisine
  • Compact, walkable town with easy day trips
  • Seasonal crowds in summer
  • Some services close in winter
  • "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 San Felíu de Guixols

Visit one of these nice places.

Port de Sant Feliu de Guíxols

Harbor with colorful boats and a lively quay; best in the early morning or at sunset for warm light.

Passeig de la Muga / Promenade

Cliffside walkway with sweeping sea views and dramatic horizons—great for twilight photography.

Monastery Square and Old Town overlooks

Cobblestone streets and stone walls with panoramic town and sea views; ideal for atmospheric urban shots.

Culinary Guide

Food in San Felíu de Guixols

The Costa Brava region is renowned for seafood-driven Catalan cuisine, olive oil, garlic, and sun-warmed produce. Expect fresh fish, char-grilled seafood, and simple yet flavorful dishes that pair well with local wines and regional cavas.

San Felíu de Guixols Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Esqueixada

A refreshing shredded salt cod salad with tomatoes, onions, and olive oil; widely found in coastal eateries.

Must-Try!

Suquet de peix

A traditional Catalan fish stew made with white fish, shellfish, tomatoes, and a garlicky broth.

Pa amb tomàquet

Toasted bread rubbed with ripe tomato and olive oil; a staple starter across restaurants.

Coca de recapte

Savory flatbread topped with vegetables, often enjoyed as a snack or light meal.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Mercat Municipal de Sant Felíu de Guíxols

Daily market offering fresh produce, seafood, cheese, and regional specialties; great for sampling local flavors.

Seafront snack stalls

Casual spots along the harbor offering quick bites like grilled seafood, fritters, and small tapas perfect for grazing by the sea.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sant Feliu de Guíxols enjoys a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Sea breezes moderate the heat in summer, while winter temperatures typically stay in the 8–15°C range. Spring and autumn bring comfortable conditions for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Language and Greetings

Catalan is widely spoken; Spanish is understood. Greet with 'Bon dia' (Good day) or 'Hola'; politeness goes a long way.

Dining Etiquette

Mealtimes can be later in the day; be patient at busy spots; avoid loud behavior in intimate dining spaces; modest dress in churches and sacred sites.

Safety Guide

Safety

Generally safe for travelers. Practice standard precautions against petty theft in crowded areas, keep valuables secure near the harbor, and be mindful of cliffs and uneven paths along the coast. In peak season, traffic and crowds can be heavier; use crosswalks and follow local guidance.

Tipping in San Felíu de Guixols

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tips are appreciated but not mandatory. Round up the bill or leave 5-10% for good service; most restaurant service charges are included if indicated.

Payment Methods

Cash and cards are widely accepted; smaller shops and markets may prefer cash; contactless payments are common.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscapes, and fewer crowds; ideal for coastal walks and outdoor dining.

Summer

Warm to hot weather; bustling beaches, lively nightlife, and long days; stay hydrated and use sun protection.

Autumn

Milder days with sea breezes and fewer tourists; great for hiking and seafood markets as fishing activity remains steady.

Winter

Cooler, mild Mediterranean climate with some seasonal openings; quieter streets and lower prices; plan for occasional closures in smaller shops.

Nightlife Guide

San Felíu de Guixols at Night

The nightlife centers around relaxed beach bars and taverns in the old town and along the harbor. Expect a mix of casual tapas, cocktails, and live music venues, with a laid-back vibe rather than a club scene. Summer brings a lively atmosphere with outdoor terraces and sunset drinks; outside peak season, many spots maintain a cozy, locals-for-local feel.

Hiking in San Felíu de Guixols

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Camí de Ronda: Sant Feliu de Guíxols to Platja de Sant Pol

Coastal footpath with sea cliffs, coves, and expansive views.

Gavarres Massif trails

Forest and hill trails just inland offering panoramic views and shaded routes.

Coastal path towards Calonge

Scenic segment of the coastal trail with beach stops and cliff views.

Airports

How to reach San Felíu de Guixols by plane.

Girona–Costa Brava Airport (GRO)

About a 20–30 minute drive from Sant Feliu; serves domestic and some international flights.

Barcelona–El Prat Airport (BCN)

Major international gateway about 1.5–2.5 hours by car or train, depending on connections.

Perpignan–Rivesaltes Airport (PGF)

Closest French option with seasonal connections; useful for cross-border trips.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sant Feliu de Guíxols is very walkable in the town center, with pleasant seaside paths and compact streets in the old town. Some hillier viewpoints require a bit of climb, but most major sights are reachable on foot or by short taxi rides. Bicycles are a popular way to get around the surrounding area.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

A mix of families and retirees, with a strong local community feel.

Tourists

Seasonal visitors from across Europe and beyond, especially in summer.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

Very popular in local clubs and among fans; matches and training sessions are common on weekends.

Water sports (kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing)

Ideal for the coast; equipment rental is available along the harbor.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in the town center is limited; peak season brings more cars and parking challenges near the harbor and beaches. Public transport connections to Girona and other Costa Brava towns are reliable; walking and biking are highly practical within the town. Renting a bike is a common and convenient option for exploring nearby coves.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting San Felíu de Guixols.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Rely on vegetable-centric dishes, salads, and fresh market produce; most restaurants can adapt salads, pasta, and vegetable-based plates; ask for traditional Catalan dishes without meat or fish.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Catalonia has a solid public healthcare system. Local pharmacies are common and open long hours; for more complex medical care, you may access hospitals in Girona or Figueres. Carry your European Health Insurance Card if applicable and have travel insurance for international visitors.

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