Spain's proudly distinct north east

In Spain’s north eastern corner sits the fiercely independent comunidad autónoma of Catalonia, an enthralling region of historic towns, mountains and a dramatic coastline that runs up to the French border.

At its heart is Barcelona, a destination in its own right, but outside the charismatic city there is much to explore. To the north of Barca, the city of Girona is host to one of the world’s finest restaurants – El Celler de Can Roca – and a rich encapsulation of Spanish history with its Gothic cathedral, old Jewish quarter and Arab baths.

Continue north an you’ll reach Figueres, home to the surreal Dalí Theatre and Museum, and if you keep going you will be met by the snow-capped peaks of the Pyrenees and some sublime hiking.

Along Catalonia’s rugged coast, the Costa Brava, secluded beaches are punctuated by fishing towns such as the beautiful Cadaques, a long-term muse to Dali, and innumerable opportunities to get off the beaten track to find your own corner of north eastern Spain.

Through it all, Catalonia’s proud traditions and distinct identity runs deep, be it in the language, cuisine or palpable confidence of the people.

From our experts

Experiences picked by our Catalonia and Costa Brava specialists

Taste cava and wine in the Penedès

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Head to Penedès and savour velvety wines and effervescent cava.

Cook a three-course Catalan meal with a chef

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With a seasoned chef, enjoy a three-course delicious meal featuring canelones , butifarras al cava and crema Catalana.

Sample craft beer and tapas in Barcelona

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Venture into Barcelona to learn about local beer production and savour delectable tapas.

Hike to an Empordà olive farm

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Hike across the Empordà’s countryside to an idyllic finca, where you’ll sample their home-grown olive oil.

A word from one of our experts

Catalonia astounds with its tantalising cuisine, the traditions of which trace back centuries.Here the rich, varied landscapes yield many delights: silky olive oil, sun-ripened fruit and honeyed wines that linger on the tongue. I recommend a culinary lesson with an expert chef, who'll guide you through the traditions that have remained for centuries.

Meg Simpson headshot
Meg Simpson

Senior Travel Designer

Why book with Jacada?

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Personalised design

We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

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Authentic experiences

Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

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Responsible travel

Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.

Trip inspiration

Get inspired with our Catalonia and the Costa Brava example trips and then get in touch to plan your own adventure

Art and Gastronomy in Catalonia

10-Day Trip

Art and Gastronomy in Catalonia

From
$0 pp

10-Day Trip

Art and Gastronomy in Catalonia

Experience the fine food, culture and history of Catalonia on this luxury 10 day trip to Barcelona and the Costa Brava
From
$0 pp
Ready to plan your adventure?

Whatever you want from your Catalonia and the Costa Brava adventure, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

Where to go

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Barcelona

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Madrid

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Malaga and the Costa del Sol

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San Sebastian

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Santiago de Compostela

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Seville

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When to visit

The summers can get very hot in southern Spain so visiting in spring, early summer and autumn is preferable. The north is still hot during the summer but is cooler than the south, which is great for hiking. With plenty of museums and galleries in the cities, they make great year-round destinations.

Go hiking

June and September

Wine tasting

June

Calcot season

November–April

When Is the Best Time to Visit Spain?

When Is the Best Time to Visit Spain?

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Plan your trip to Catalonia and the Costa Brava

Whatever you want from your adventure in Catalonia and the Costa Brava, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.

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Don't take our word for it

Your trip, your story

We craft trips deeply personal, delightfully surprising and entirely one of a kind. Every Jacada journey begins in conversation with a travel designer, a specialist in their destination of expertise. Behind each journey is a wealth of insight, gathered over years of on-the-ground exploration.

Once you’re booked, you’ll meet your concierge. Based in the region you’re visiting, they’ll take care of all the details so your mind is at rest. They make the trip truly special – and truly yours.