Is Costa Brava Expensive? Cost Breakdown & Budget Options For Your Trip
Are you wondering if Costa Brava is expensive? Read on to learn more about the costs of traveling.
Costa Brava is a beautiful coastal region in northeastern Spain. As an American I hear a lot about Italy’s coast, but I think Costa Brava is a great alternative. While it isn’t inexpensive to visit Costa Brava it’s less expensive than the much-hyped Amalfi Coast.
I spent over a month in the fall of 2023 traveling around Costa Brava and had to balance enjoying myself with not over spending since I was staying there for an extended period of time and not just a vacation.
Is Costa Brava Expensive To Visit?
Costa Brava is often perceived as a high-end destination, mostly due to its picturesque beaches, luxury resorts, and gourmet dining experiences. However, like many travel destinations, the cost can vary widely depending on your travel style, preferences, and the choices you make regarding accommodation, dining, and activities.
Cost Breakdown of a Costa Brava Trip
The overall expense of a trip to Costa Brava can be broken down into four main categories:
🔹 Accommodation
🔹 Food
🔹 Activities
🔹 Transportation
Accommodation Costs in Costa Brava
Accommodation ranges from luxury hotels to budget hostels, with prices varying based on location and season.
Accommodation in Costa Brava can fit a wide range of budgets. Luxury resorts and hotels in popular towns like Lloret de Mar or Tossa de Mar can cost upwards of €200 per night, especially in peak season.
Mid-range hotels typically charge between €100 to €150 per night.
For budget travelers, hostels and budget hotels offer rooms starting at around €50 per night.
💲Budget Tip: Consider camping in Costa Brava instead of staying at a hotel. Many campsites offer bungalows or small cabins so even if you don’t have a camper van or tent of your own you can still find an affordable place to stay.
💲Budget Tip: For budget accommodations, consider towns like Blanes, Palamós, or L’Estartit, where hotel and hostel prices are generally lower.
💲Budget Tip: Budget travelers can also look for hostels in Girona, which offers easy access to various parts of Costa Brava via public transportation.
Food Costs in Costa Brava
The region is famed for its delicious cuisine. but dining out can vary greatly, with options from upscale restaurants to local eateries.
A meal at a high-end restaurant can cost between €30 to €50 per person, not including drinks. Mid-range restaurants offer meals in the range of €15 to €25 per person. For budget dining, local tapas bars and small eateries provide meals for under €10.
💲Budget Tip: Purchasing food from local markets and cooking can be a cost-effective option. I stayed in mostly apartment-like accommodations that had kitchens so I could cook some meals at home.
💲Budget Tip: If you are trying to save money, look for restaurants that are not right on the water. Places in the middle of town that have a great view tend to over charge because of their location. Instead stop there for a coffee in the afternoon to enjoy the view and eat your meals at restaurants off the main drag.
💲Budget Tip: To save on food costs, look for menu del día (menu of the day) at local restaurants, typically offering a multi-course meal at a reasonable price. Eating at tapas bars, where you can order a couple small, affordable dishes, can be another budget-friendly option (as long as you’re not too hungry).
💲Budget Tip: Stay in towns like Figueres and Roses that offer a variety of dining options that cater to different budgets.
Activity Costs in Costa Brava
Popular activities include beach outings, museum visits, hiking, and boating. Generally speaking, activities are not very expensive in Costa Brava.
Entrance fees for museums and historical sites are generally affordable, usually under €10.
Boat tours, guided activities, and wine tastings can be on the pricier side, often around €30 or more.
💲Budget Tip: Beaches, hiking trails, and exploring small towns don’t cost anything. For example, we opted out of taking a boat out in Cadaqués because it was a couple hundred Euro for a few hours. Instead we hiked out to Cala sa Sabello and enjoyed the beautiful cove and pebble beach there, which was completely free!
Transportation Costs in Costa Brava
Transportation costs depend on your mode of travel – whether you’re renting a car, using public transport, or relying on taxis.
🚗 Car Rental: We rented a car so we could go with the flow and be flexible as we traveled from town to town exploring the coast. If it’s in your budget, a rental car is the ideal way to leisurely travel Costa Brava. But to budget properly, make sure to compare rental prices online and consider fuel costs. Also, be aware of parking challenges in popular towns during peak season.
🚆 Trains: Although limited to certain towns (like Girona and Figueres), trains are fast and comfortable. They’re good for moving between major hubs. Check the Renfe website for schedules and prices. You will get the best deal on train tickets if you buy in advance.
🚌 Public Buses: The local bus network is cost-effective for short distances. It’s ideal for hopping between towns or reaching secluded beaches. However, schedules can be infrequent, so plan accordingly.
💲Budget Tip: Biking and walking are the not only the cheapest option for getting around, but fun ways to explore. Many towns in Costa Brava are bike-friendly, and renting a bike can be a great way to sightsee. Walking is also a great option in smaller towns or for scenic coastal trails.
Tips for Visiting Costa Brava on a Budget
Traveling to Costa Brava on a budget is feasible with some planning.
✅ Consider staying in hostels or budget hotels, or opt for Airbnb rentals away from the main tourist areas.
✅ Eating at local taverns and purchasing food from markets can save on dining costs.
✅ Using public transportation is cheaper than renting a car or taking taxis.
✅ Focus on free or low-cost activities like hiking, beach days, and exploring towns to keep costs down.
✅ Some towns offer tourist cards that include public transport, museum entries, and discounts. Check local tourist office websites for details.
Best Budget Friendly Activities in Costa Brava
Nothing beats free activities like wandering the small streets of old towns, going for a hike, or relaxing on a public beach. But if you’ve done all those and are looking for something else that’s not too expensive, here are a few activities you can try:
Sant Feliu de Guíxols: Kayaking & Snorkeling Tour
Spend two hours enjoying the Mediterranean Sea while you kayak and snorkel. Book a guided kayak and snorkel tour here!
From Roses: Catamaran Cruise Cap Norfeu – Cadaqués
Set sail from Roses and cruise along the coast to Cap Norfeu. Book your 3.5 hour boat ride here!
Costa Brava: Stand-Up Paddleboarding Lesson and Tour
Spend two hours learning the basics of paddle boarding before hitting the waters of Sant Pol Bay with a small group. Book your lesson here!
Visiting Costa Brava: FAQs
Answering some top questions about traveling in Costa Brava.
When is the cheapest time to visit Costa Brava?
The cheapest time to visit Costa Brava is during the shoulder seasons – April to June and September to October. During these periods, the weather is still pleasant, and prices for accommodation and activities are lower compared to the peak summer months of July and August.
I was there in October definitely saved on accommodation costs compared to the rates the hotels charge in the summertime.
Is it worth visiting Costa Brava?
The question of whether Costa Brava is worth visiting can be answered with a resounding yes for a variety of travelers. This region in northeastern Spain offers stunning coastline, picturesque towns, and rich cultural heritage.
The appeal of Costa Brava lies in its diversity – from secluded coves and sandy beaches to medieval towns and modern resorts. The natural landscapes here are breathtaking with rugged cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery.
For art and history enthusiasts, the region’s connection to Salvador Dalí, along with its Gothic and Romanesque architecture, makes it an interesting destination.
The culinary scene in Costa Brava, famed for its seafood and Catalan dishes, is another big draw.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or gastronomic delights, Costa Brava caters to a wide range of interests and is definitely worth visiting.
Is Costa Brava touristy?
Costa Brava does attract a fair number of tourists, especially during the peak summer months of July and August. Popular towns like Lloret de Mar, Tossa de Mar, and Blanes can get quite crowded, with popular beaches and a lively nightlife scene.
However, the region is large enough to offer quieter spots even in high season. Small villages like Cadaqués, Begur, and Pals retain their charm and tranquility, offering a more authentic and relaxed experience.
In the off-season, the tourist footfall decreases significantly, making it an ideal time to explore the region without the crowds. Moreover, Costa Brava’s expansive countryside, with its vineyards, olive groves, and hidden coves, provides plenty of opportunities to escape the touristy areas and enjoy a more serene experience.
What town should I stay in Costa Brava?
Deciding where to stay in Costa Brava depends on your interests and the type of vacation you’re planning.
For a lively beach holiday with entertainment options, Lloret de Mar is a popular choice, known for its vibrant nightlife and sandy beaches.
If you’re looking for a more family-friendly atmosphere, Tossa de Mar, with its beautiful beaches and historic old town, is a great option.
For those interested in art, Cadaqués, a charming seaside town with whitewashed houses and a bohemian vibe, is perfect for a romantic getaway or a peaceful retreat. Salvador Dalí once called it home and his house is now a museum you can visit.
Begur and Pals are ideal for those who want to experience the medieval charm of the region, with well-preserved old towns and spectacular views.
For a more upscale and tranquil experience, consider staying in one of the smaller towns like Tamariu or Aiguablava, known for their stunning beaches and coves.
Each town in Costa Brava has its unique character and charm, so your choice should align with the kind of experience you wish to have.
TL;DR: Is Costa Brava Expensive?
In summary, while Costa Brava has a reputation for being a luxury destination, it offers a range of options to suit various budgets. With careful planning and smart choices, you can enjoy the beauty and culture of this Spanish gem without breaking the bank.