Costa Brava, Spain Guide

Know Before You Go...®

Spain is a vibrant country located in southwestern Europe, known for its rich history, diverse culture, and stunning landscapes. From the bustling streets of Madrid to the sun-kissed beaches of the Mediterranean coast, Spain offers something for every traveler. Boasting a mix of ancient landmarks, modern architecture, and delicious cuisine, this country is a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. Its warm climate, friendly people, and lively atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique and unforgettable experience. Come and discover the beauty and charm of Spain for yourself.

Why Costa Brava, Spain?

  • The Costa Brava is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain.
  • It is known for its stunning beaches and picturesque coves.
  • The Costa Brava is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in the world.
  • The Costa Brava is home to many medieval villages and castles.
  • It is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as snorkeling, sailing, and windsurfing.

Costa Brava, Spain Weather/Climate

Average Temperatures

January
55° F
43° F
February
57° F
43° F
March
59° F
45° F
April
63° F
48° F
May
68° F
54° F
June
75° F
61° F
July
81° F
66° F
August
88° F
66° F
September
77° F
63° F
October
70° F
55° F
November
63° F
48° F
December
57° F
43° F

Average Rainfall

January
1.7 inches
February
1.4 inches
March
1.9 inches
April
2 inches
May
2 inches
June
1.5 inches
July
0.9 inches
August
2.1 inches
September
2.9 inches
October
3.4 inches
November
2.3 inches
December
2 inches

Overview

Welcome to Costa Brava - a stunning stretch of coastline located in the north-east of Spain. Situated between the Pyrenees mountains and the Mediterranean Sea, this area is a paradise for sun-seekers and beach-goers, as well as offering plenty of opportunities for exploration.

Enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, fishing, and more, or take in the stunning views of the rugged coastline by boat or cruise. With numerous picturesque bays and coves, the seascape here is truly breathtaking.

Explore the charming towns and villages of Costa Brava and find a range of cultural sites, historical monuments, and attractions. Take a trip to Girona, the largest city in the region, and visit its impressive cathedral, old Jewish quarter, and ancient city walls. Or visit the ruins of the ancient Roman city of Empuries, located on the coast.

Sample the delicious local cuisine, which is rich in seafood, as well as other traditional dishes. Enjoy a glass of local wine or beer in one of the many lively bars and restaurants. This area is also great for shopping, with many quaint boutiques and markets selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and other goods.

Costa Brava offers something for everyone, from outdoor activities and cultural sights to delicious food and great nightlife. Come and experience the beauty and hospitality of this stunning part of Spain.

History

Spain has a rich and diverse history, with influences from various civilizations and cultures. Its location on the Iberian Peninsula, at the crossroads of Europe, Africa, and the Mediterranean, has made it a coveted land throughout the centuries.

The first known inhabitants of Spain were the Iberians, a group of people who lived in the peninsula from 4000 BC. They were followed by the Celts, who brought their own customs and language to the region.

In 218 BC, the Carthaginians, a powerful empire from North Africa, conquered parts of Spain. However, their rule was short-lived as the Romans came in 206 BC and established their dominance over the peninsula. Under Roman rule, Spain became a prosperous province, known for its agriculture and mining industries.

In the 5th century AD, the Visigoths, a Germanic tribe, invaded Spain and established their kingdom. They were eventually conquered by the Moors, an Islamic civilization from North Africa, in the early 8th century. The Moors brought with them advanced knowledge in science, mathematics, and architecture, and their influence can still be seen in Spain today.

In the late 15th century, Spain entered the Age of Exploration, led by the famous navigator, Christopher Columbus. This period marked the beginning of Spain’s vast overseas empire, which included territories in the Americas, Africa, and Asia. The wealth from these colonies contributed to Spain’s Golden Age, a period of economic and cultural prosperity during the 16th and 17th centuries.

However, the 18th and 19th centuries brought turmoil and decline for Spain. The country faced wars, revolutions, and political instability, which led to the loss of its colonies and a decline in its global power.

In the 20th century, Spain experienced a turbulent period with the Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) and the dictatorship of Francisco Franco (1939-1975). After Franco’s death, Spain transitioned to a democratic government and joined the European Union in 1986.

Today, Spain is a modern and vibrant country, known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. It is a top tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world to cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and Seville.

In conclusion, Spain’s history is a reflection of its geographical location and its interactions with different civilizations. From its early inhabitants to its current status as a major global player, Spain’s story is one of resilience, diversity, and cultural richness.

Transportation on Costa Brava, Spain

Getting to Costa Brava, Spain and getting around. Our transportation tips will help make your trip smoother. More good sand advice.

Entry Documents

  • Valid Passport: Ensure it’s valid for at least 3 months beyond departure.
  • Visa: Check Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs for visa requirements based on nationality.
  • Proof of Accommodation: Have confirmation of hotel or lodging.
  • Proof of Funds: Be ready to show you can cover your stay (bank statements or sponsorship letter).
  • Return Ticket: Show onward travel plans.
  • Travel Insurance: Recommended for health coverage.
  • Arrival Form: Complete if required.
  • COVID-19 Documents: Check latest travel advisories and COVID-19 requirements from reliable sources.

Departure Tax

No specific departure tax in Europe for American citizens; European countries typically include departure taxes in airline ticket prices, applying to all passengers, to fund airport services. Best to check with airline or airport website for any updates.

Driving

  • Non-EU/EEA tourists may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).
  • Ensure all occupants, including passengers in the back seat, wear seat belts.
  • Children under 12 or less than 135 cm in height must use an appropriate child safety seat.
  • Adhere to speed limits: 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on open roads, 110 km/h on expressways, and 120 km/h on motorways (some sections may have lower limits).
  • Using a mobile phone while driving is prohibited unless you have a hands-free system.
  • Overtake on the left, and keep to the right unless overtaking on multi-lane roads.
  • Many highways have tolls; pay attention to toll booths and consider electronic toll devices available with some rental cars.
  • Use headlights at all times, even during the day.
  • In case of an emergency, call 112 and familiarize yourself with emergency service numbers.

Local Transportation

Spain has a comprehensive and efficient public transportation system that covers both urban and rural areas. The most common modes of transportation include buses, trains, and metro systems. Taxis are also widely available in cities, while rental cars are popular for exploring more remote areas. Additionally, Spain has a well-developed network of bike lanes and rental services, making cycling a convenient and eco-friendly option.

Know Before You Go...® - Costa Brava, Spain Travel Tips

Before making their way to Costa Brava, Spain , vacationers like to know a little bit of helpful information to make them feel more at home during their stay. Take a look at our travel tips to make your time in villas in Costa Brava, Spain even more relaxing.

Capital: 2017Girona
Population: 2021Unknown
Size: 2003Approximately 1,958 square miles.
Electric Current: 220/240
Time: zone:+1 (GMT/UTC )
Official Language: The official language of Costa Brava is Spanish, which is spoken by the majority of the population. However, the secondary language spoken is Catalan, which is also widely used and recognized in the region. Both Spanish and Catalan are considered official
Currency: Costa Brava, a popular coastal region in northeastern Spain, offers a diverse range of currency and payment options for travelers. The official currency of Costa Brava is the Euro (EUR), which is widely accepted at most establishments. However, it is advisable to always carry some cash in smaller denominations as some smaller vendors may not accept credit cards. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Costa Brava, especially in larger cities and tourist areas. Visa and Mastercard are the most commonly accepted cards, followed by American Express and Diners Club. It is always a good idea to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues with card transactions. ATMs are easily available in Costa Brava, and most accept international cards. However, do keep in mind that some ATMs may charge a fee for foreign transactions. It is advisable to withdraw larger amounts to minimize transaction fees. Travelers can also opt for traveler's checks, although they are not
Tipping and Taxes: Tipping and taxes in Costa Brava, a popular coastal region in northeastern Spain, follow similar patterns to the rest of the country. Tipping is not mandatory in Costa Brava, but it is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a tip of 5-10% of the total bill is considered generous. Taxi drivers also appreciate small tips, rounding up the fare to the nearest Euro. Hotel staff, such as housekeeping and bellhops, also appreciate small tips, usually 1-2 Euros per day. It is not necessary to tip in bars or cafes, but leaving some change is common practice. Sales tax, known as IVA (Impuesto sobre el Valor Añadido) in Spain, is included in the price of goods and services in Costa Brava. The standard rate is 21%, but there is a reduced rate of 10% for basic necessities such as food and medicine, and a super-reduced rate of 4% for certain items like water, bread, and newspapers. Tourists can claim a refund of the IVA paid on certain goods purchased in Spain if they spend over 90 euro
Dress Code: The dress code in Costa Brava is casual and relaxed, with lightweight and comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather.
Topography: The topography of Costa Brava is characterized by rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky coves, with a diverse landscape of mountains, valleys, and coastal plains.
Telephone: Costa Brava's telephone country code is +34 and its area code is 972.

Costa Brava, Spain Weddings and Honeymoons

Vacationers don’t just stay in Costa Brava, Spain villas - they come to paradise to get married and celebrate their honeymoons!

See our favorite Spain villas for weddings.

See our favorite Spain villas for honeymoons.