Costa Brava & Medieval Village Small Group Tour Including Lunch

An In-Depth Look at the Costa Brava & Medieval Village Small Group Tour

This well-reviewed tour promises a full day exploring some of Spain’s most picturesque coastline and historic towns, all from Barcelona. With a small-group format, you’ll benefit from a more personal experience, avoiding the crowds and getting closer to local culture and scenery. It includes visits to secluded beaches, botanical gardens, a medieval fortress, and Tossa de Mar—all topped off with a traditional three-course lunch and drinks.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances scenic beauty, cultural insight, and laid-back leisure. The stops at Cala de Sant Francesc and Marimurtra Botanical Gardens offer momentary escapes into nature with stunning views, while Tossa de Mar’s charming streets and fortress give you a genuine taste of old-world Spain. The included meal, with regional dishes and sangria, adds a delicious touch to the day.

A potential consideration is the amount of walking involved, especially in hilly or cobbled areas like Tossa de Mar. If mobility is an issue, it’s worth noting the tour involves some stairs and uneven terrain. However, the guides are praised for their accommodating and friendly approach. This tour is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed yet enriching day with diverse highlights—perfect for those who want a taste of Costa Brava’s natural beauty, history, and flavors without the hassle of planning logistics themselves.

Key Points

• Intimate Experience: Small group of up to 16 travelers offers a more personalized and flexible sightseeing day.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Expect rugged cliffs, pine groves, and crystal-clear waters that make Costa Brava one of Europe’s most scenic coastlines.
• Diverse Stops: From secluded beaches to botanical gardens, medieval castles, and lively towns, there’s a mix of nature, history, and culture.
• Included Lunch & Drinks: A traditional Spanish three-course meal with drinks like sangria, wine, or beer is included, adding great value.
• Expert Guides: Reviewers highlight guides like Enrique and Sergio for their knowledge, humor, and friendliness.
• Comfortable Transportation: Air-conditioned vehicle ensures a comfortable ride between stops, with most activities within reach for average travelers.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Off in Barcelona

The tour begins early at the Palau de la Música, conveniently located in the heart of Barcelona. Meeting your guide here means you’ll start with some friendly introductions and a quick briefing before hitting the road around 8:30 am. The small-group format is immediately noticeable, with a maximum of 16 travelers, which makes for easier conversation and a more relaxed vibe.

Scenic Drive to Costa Brava

The one-hour drive from Barcelona offers a chance to chat with your guide about the region’s highlights and history. It’s a good way to settle in and get excited for the day ahead.

Cala de Sant Francesc: Secluded Beach Bliss

At around 9:45 am, the journey takes you to Cala de Sant Francesc, a local-secret cove that hasn’t been overrun by travelers. Reviewers love the early departure for the quiet, pristine environment, with some noting this is a rare chance to enjoy the beach undisturbed. Bring your swimsuit and towel if you plan to swim—many reviewers say the waters are crystal clear and perfect for a dip, with the tranquil surroundings making it feel like your own private paradise. You can spend about two hours here, soaking up the sun, swimming, or just strolling the shoreline.

Marimurtra Botanical Gardens: Nature and Views

Next, around 10:15 am, you’ll visit Jardi Botanic Marimurtra, perched on dramatic cliffs overlooking the Mediterranean. As one reviewer mentioned, the amazing sea views from the gardens are unforgettable, with waves crashing beneath you and exotic plants surrounding you. The gardens are a favorite for their picturesque setting—perfect for a peaceful walk or some photos. You can choose to spend an hour exploring the gardens or linger longer if you prefer, as the included admission ticket allows flexibility.

Lunch and the Castle of Sant Joan in Blanes

Around 12:30 pm, the tour heads to Blanes, where you’ll visit Castle of Sant Joan for panoramic views over the town. Then, it’s time to indulge in a regional, family-run restaurant, renowned among reviewers for its delicious three-course meal and sangria. The quality of the food is generally rated highly, with many describing the dishes as lovingly prepared and a highlight of the day.

Exploring Tossa de Mar

Post-lunch, around 3:45 pm, the group makes its way to Tossa de Mar, a true gem of Costa Brava. This medieval town boasts a walled fortress and narrow, cobbled streets lined with whitewashed houses. As one reviewer noted, the castle and lighthouse offer sweeping coastal views, and wandering through the old town feels like stepping back in time. You’ll have about two hours here, with options to stroll, shop, or relax on the beach.

Return to Barcelona

The tour wraps up with a return drive around 7 pm, arriving back in Plaça Catalunya. From here, it’s easy to find a metro or taxi for your hotel, or perhaps plan a dinner nearby—many reviewers suggest local spots for a late-night meal after such a fulfilling day.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The guides are consistently praised for their knowledge and humor, making the day both informative and fun. Enrique and Sergio, in particular, stood out for their engaging storytelling and friendly manner—reviewers say they genuinely added to the experience.

The scenery is truly stunning; rugged cliffs, pine forests, and turquoise waters make Costa Brava a photographer’s dream. The botanical gardens, in particular, leave visitors in awe of their exotic plants and breathtaking views.

The food is another highlight. The included three-course meal offers regional flavors, with many reviewers describing it as one of the best meals of their trip. The fact that drinks such as sangria, wine, or beer are included adds great value, especially considering the quality.

The flexibility at each stop—whether lounging at the beach, wandering through gardens, or exploring Tossa de Mar—resonates with travelers looking for a relaxed pace.

Transport in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle ensures that your day is smooth from start to finish, without the hassle of public transport or self-driving.

The Value of This Experience

At $126.57 per person, this tour offers impressive value considering the included activities, meals, and guided insights. The key is the combination of scenery, culture, and leisure—a well-rounded day that suits travelers who want a scenic escape from the city but without the stress of planning multiple separate excursions.

The small-group format ensures that you’re not lost in a crowd, and your guide’s local knowledge enriches each stop. Many guests note how the guides’ storytelling, humor, and attentiveness truly enhance the day.

While some may find the walking involved challenging—especially in hilly or cobbled areas—most reviews mention that guides are accommodating and that the views and experiences more than compensate for the effort.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to see the best of Costa Brava’s natural beauty and historic towns in one day, without having to rent a car or navigate public transport. It’s perfect for those who appreciate guided insight, excellent food, and a relaxed pace with plenty of free time to explore on your own.

Beach lovers will enjoy the secluded cala and the chance to swim in crystal-clear waters, while history buffs will appreciate Tossa de Mar’s medieval charm. Foodies will find the included lunch a highlight—delicious local dishes served in a cozy setting.

It’s suited for travelers of all ages, but those with mobility issues should be aware of some hills and uneven terrain in Tossa de Mar. The tour’s intimate small-group size and knowledgeable guides make it especially appealing for first-time visitors to the region.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 10 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 8:30 am and returning around 7 pm.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, the tour begins at the Palau de la Música in Barcelona. However, the meeting point is centrally located and accessible by public transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring your bathing suit and towel if you plan to swim at Cala de Sant Francesc. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking, especially in Tossa de Mar’s cobbled streets.

Are meals included?
Yes, a three-course traditional Spanish lunch with a drink (sangria, wine, beer, or soda) is included. Drinks are part of the meal, adding great value.

What about the group size?
The tour operates with a maximum of 16 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience and easier interaction with your guide.

Can I customize the tour?
The itinerary is fixed, but you have some flexibility in how long to spend at each stop, especially in places like the botanical gardens and Tossa de Mar.

Final Thoughts

This Costa Brava & Medieval Village Small Group Tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural richness, and local flavor—all in one well-paced day. From the tranquil beaches and stunning gardens to the medieval streets of Tossa de Mar, every stop feels thoughtfully curated to showcase the best of the region. The included regional lunch, guided insights, and comfortable transport make it a practical choice for travelers who want an enriching and hassle-free escape from Barcelona.

If you’re seeking a day full of gorgeous views, historical charm, and delicious food, this tour hits the mark. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a small-group setting, personalized attention, and a blend of free exploration and guided commentary. Overall, it’s a memorable way to discover Spain’s best coastal and medieval treasures.