9 Top Things To Do in Lloret De Mar, Catalonia
If you’re after a weekend escape or even just a quick day trip from nearby, bustling Barcelona, Lloret de Mar has exactly what you need. Let’s look at 9 Things to do in Lloret de Mar, Catalonia.
Straddling the iconic Costa Brava coastline, this little piece of paradise is home to a wealth of hidden coves and turquoise waters. But the beauty lies beyond the eclectic beachfront. Bustling by night and beaming by day, hikers, artists, nature enthusiasts and foodies seem to be drawn in like fish to the bait.
Here’s what we cover in this guide:
Best Things to do in Lloret de Mar
Top Restaurants in Lloret de Mar
Best Time to Visit Lloret de Mar
How to Get to Lloret de Mar
FAQs
Are you looking for top-rated travel insurance? Whether you’re a digital nomad, frequent flyer, or seasoned vacationer, having insurance up your sleeve can ensure you with peace of mind. When my apartment was robbed in Barcelona, I couldn’t have been more grateful to have had travel insurance. SafetyWing covers practically everything you could think of, from lost luggage to unexpected medical bills. Take the hassle out of your travels today!
Best Things to do in Lloret de Mar
Let’s investigate beyond the tedious to-do’s and dive into the must-see activities and attractions in Lloret de Mar now, shall we? We’ll cover everything from nature-immersive coastal paths and hidden coves to outdoor activities and historical hot spots.
And don’t think I’ve forgotten about you voracious culinary vultures out there… This guide to Lloret de Mar even includes my top picks for restaurants, cafes, and speciality desserts! Foodies, you will not be disappointed. So, let’s get to it. Here’s everything you need to know about Spain’s northeastern gem.
9. Day Trip to Girona
Girona is a picture-perfect town that’s riddled with a colourful history. Better yet, it’s situated a short 30 minutes away from Lloret de Mar. Take a day trip and discover the labyrinth-like medieval streets, climb fortified walls and peer up at the perplexing cathedral.
Strut alongside the River Onyar, pick out your favourite candy-coloured homes on the waterfront and indulge in the traditional dining scene in Girona. Whether it’s the rich history, colourful culture or mouth-watering Catalan cuisine, you’ll find something that appeals to you.
8. Beaches in Lloret de Mar
Of course, as a beautiful destination brimming with beaches, I think it’s best to start with this seaside town’s sole seduction. Let’s dive in, pun intended, into the best beaches and coves in Lloret de Mar.
Playa de Fenals
With a variety of sea life flourishing around the crystal clear water, Fenals Beach is the ultimate utopia for snorkelers.
Aside from the opportunity to relax and wind back under the sun, this beach also reels in avid adrenaline junkies due to the array of water-sports activities like kayaking, parasailing, water-skiing, and glass-bottom boat tours.
This 700 m-long stretch of finite sand is way less crowded than Lloret de Mar’s main beach, and it’s worth the 15-minute journey southwest of the city’s centre. Encapsulated by a hill, the Playa de Fenals remains relatively protected from strong winds, helping to keep the water calmer.
There are amenities, with beach bed & umbrella rentals and even kayaks for those more inclined to lean into their adventurous side. You’ll also find a beachside bar, restaurant, lockers, showers, and toilets.
Santa Cristina Beach
Straddled between two hills, Santa Cristina Beach is speckled with calm cobalt waters, fine golden sand and a verdant-fringed forest. The beachfront is protected from harsh winds, making it a suitable spot for families with young children.
On top of the natural splendour spanning the Santa Cristina beach, it is one of the most optimal diving spots on the Costa Brava. Most catamaran tours pin this blissful beach as a must-see, and it should be on top of your Lloret de Mar bucket list.
Regarding activities, you’ll find that beach volleyball dominates the scene here. For something extra, check out the Santa Cristina Chapel tucked atop the hill or dip in the Cala Treumal cove.
Playa de Lloret de Mar
Alright, I’m going to make this crystal clear. As this is the main beach, you should prepare yourself accordingly. Expect hoards of tourists, bustling beach bars with killer cocktails, and not too much shade on offer. The Lloret de Mar Beach is more of a convenience than a must-do. Consider it your best option if you’re too hungover to travel to the surrounding beaches.
If you want a little more peace & quiet from the roaring forefronts of the main beach, trot down to the far left or right-hand corners, which are teeming with turquoise water splashing onto golden sand, as well as a bit more space to bury your butt in the sand.
Don’t forget to peep up to the left-hand side of the shoreline, where the Castle of Sant Joan sits perched on the cliff’s edge.
Of course, the aim of this guide is to showcase the best of Lloret de Mar. However, if you’ve got the time to spare, I’d highly recommend checking out the diversity of other beaches and coves on offer here.
There are many things to do in Lloret de Mar. More beach activities include diving, kayaking, snorkelling and boat trips. Keep a look out for:
Cala Boadella
Cala Treumal
Cala Banys
Cala Sa Caleta
Cala dels Frares
Trons Bay
Cala Rajols
Cala Sa Tortuga
If you head further up north, toward Tossa de Mar, you could also check out Playa de Canellas, Badia de Tossa or Cala Llorell.
7. Coastal Paths in Lloret de Mar
Get your walking boots on! One of the best ways to get a taste of the more authentic ambience on offer in Lloret de Mar is to walk it. That’s right. Moonwalking, strutting, sweaty hiking, booze-infused strolling, whatever you prefer, you can bet your bottom dollar that the coastal paths in Lloret de Mar are the perfect fit for doing just so.
The vast array of trails wind and twine through the pine-lined forest and peer down sheer cliff faces to the enticing Mediterranean coastline.
Camino de Ronda
If there’s at least one coastal trail you should slide your twinkle toes on, let it be this bad boy. The captivating Camino de Ronda route is rich in history and abundant in awe-worthy views. Initially serving as a connection between the Costa Brava’s varying villages, it was also utilised by the Guardia Civil to patrol and prevent smugglers from entering the towns.
The Camino de Ronda is one of Spain’s most popular hiking paths, and for damn good reason too. The coastal path leads you to some sublime spots exclusively accessed by foot, so don’t expect to see big buses and clusters of cars inundating the scene here.
From the verdant forest teeming with lush flora and fauna to hidden coves with glimmering water, the Camino de Ronda offers you a chance to fully immerse yourself in views that look like they’ve been ripped straight out of a postcard.
The most common trail is from Lloret to Fenals. However, the duration is entirely up to you. Whether you feel like exerting more energy or simply scratching the surface of what’s on offer, this trail suits your desires.
Kicking off in the heart of Lloret de Mar, the main path (GR-92) winds through various viewpoints, coves and creeks, with scintillating sights. This is one of the easiest routes and it’s ideal for families, as well as those who are still battling the previous night’s hangover.
The walk from Lloret de Mar’s centre to Fenals only takes 45 minutes to complete. Bordered by the Mediterranean, the Camino de Ronda leads you through Sa Caleta Cove, the Turo Rodo archaeological hot spot, a scenic lookout known as Punta de Garbi, and Cala Trons, where you’ll even get a chance to take a dip in pure, crystal clear water.
Are you feeling up for a challenge? Avid hikers and adrenaline enthusiasts - look no further. A long-distance trail, 583km to be exact, spans the forefronts of the Catalan coastline in its entirety. Starting in Portbou and ending in Ulldecona, the route encompasses enthralling coves, pristine beaches and unspoilt scenery.
Walking the coastal paths is one of the best things to do in Lloret de Mar. You can find more in-depth information regarding the coastal paths by checking out Lloret de Mar’s Tourism Website.
6. Gardens of Santa Clotilde
Where are my garden freaks at?! This one goes out to you…
They are locally referred to as the Jardins de Santa Clotilde; the Santa Clotilde Gardens offer a green escape from the charming chaos of Lloret de Mar’s main strip. With Italian-style aesthetic painting the scene of these botanical gardens, you can expect to see a classic flair replete with romance.
You can get to the Jardins de Santa Clotilde from the city's centre via the L2 bus, and admission fees are around €6.00. From the vibrant variation of flowers intermingled with marble sculptures to the trickling fountains and striking scenery over the jagged coastline, the Santa Clotilde Gardens is truly a site that’s rich in character.
This cliff-side oasis even upholds a rich Catalonian historical significance, providing history buffs with a respite from the typical town’s experience.
5. Catamaran Cruise
If you’re planning a trip to Spain, hit the waters and check out this Catamaran Sailing Tour with a BBQ and Drinks. Feel the sun kiss your skin and let the ocean sweep you away aboard a catamaran from Lloret de Mar. Sail the seas as you feast on a delectable BBQ meal with drinks like sangria, beer and soda. Bask in the beauty of the Mediterranean and spice things up with some fun-loving water activities.
If you’re looking for fun activities in Lloret de Mar, a catamaran cruise is the top pick!
4. Parish Church of Sant Roma
After winding your way through Lloret de Mar’s charming city centre, you’ll encounter the vibrant Church of Sant Romà. As the patron saint of Lloret de Mar, this picturesque church is coined for its stately domed roof and impressive architecture. Boasting Gothic-Catalan style, the architecture is a crowd favourite among locals and tourists alike. There’s no admission fee, making it one of the best free things to do in Lloret de Mar.
Stop by the Parochial Rectory, an architectural complex that’s fit for art lovers. Appreciate the attractive mosaics and unique Catalan style, before heading out into the nearby cafes for a coffee and some lunch.
3. Amusement Parks
It’s no secret that Lloret de Mar is a popular family resort destination. This coastal hot spot is sprawling with an adrenaline-infused adventure park, a fun-packed amusement park and a wild-loving aqua park where you can watch the days tick by! If you’re searching for the top things to do in Lloret de Mar with kids, check out the following:
Water World Lloret de Mar: As one of the biggest water parks in Europe, Water World Lloret de Mar is home to over 20 rides and different pools.
Arbre Aventura Park: With a wealth of zip lines, adventurous circuits, tree climbing and more, this gem offers both adrenaline and relaxation.
Gnomo Park: This is the top outdoor fun park for children up to 12 years old. If your kids are young, this is a must-see!
2. Castell de Sant Joan
Castell de Sant Joan is a crowd favourite in Lloret de Mar, and for good reason! This enchanting castle is sandwiched between Lloret Beach and Fenals Beach. Hugging the mountaintop, the Castell de Sant Joan offers a fascinating insight into this charming coastal town. With a small entrance fee, it’s affordable and accessible to history lovers and culture enthusiasts alike.
1. Day Trip to Tossa de Mar
Shake up your itinerary and jump aboard a round-trip ferry to Tossa de Mar! Explore the ravishing realms of another one of Costa Brava’s character-packed resort towns. Hang out by the beach, wander astray in the Vila Vella ( Old Town) and suss out the top Game of Thrones filming sites. Located only 12km away from the city centre, Tossa de Mar is one of the best day trips from Lloret de Mar.
More Activities in Lloret de Mar
Of course, there is an eclectic array of activities and attractions on offer in Lloret de Mar.
Listed below, you’ll find a summary of the best waterparks, adventure parks, churches, castles, and museums in this seaside town, as well as a handful of other things to do sprinkled in there too.
Here are some of the top things to do in Lloret de Mar:
Museu del Mar
Castell de Mas Carbó
Masia de Can Saragossa
Saint Nicholas Church
Gran Casino Costa Brava
Marineland Catalunya
Bungie Jumping
Best Restaurants in Lloret de Mar
If you know me, then you know I love food. Food is life. Life is food? Anyways… You bet your ass I checked out every nook and cranny of the food scene in Lloret de Mar. From lively tapas bars and gourmet Italian cuisine to simple sweets and cheap eats, I’ve got you covered.
As far as local delicacies go, traditional Catalan cuisine should be on your list if you’re after a somewhat more authentic experience. You’ll find fish and seafood dominate the scene along the charming Costa Brava coastline. Typical dishes include plates with various prawns, calamari, cuttlefish and sea urchins.
There’s no doubt if you’re heading to Spain, then you’ll be keen to get a taste of a paella. For a local touch on the typical eastern Spaniard’s dish, go at the black rice dyed with squid ink.
In that all being said, if you’re not a seafood lover like myself, there are other opportunities to indulge your taste buds. Here’s a handful of my top picks to score scrumptious treats!
1. Vela Mar
If you want the gourmet experience, then I’m telling you, this is it. Upon arrival, we were warmly greeted with glasses of cava (Spanish champagne).
The tapas was to die for, with perfect serving sizes and high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients.
We were swept up with live piano and singing in the background to add to the ambience. The lighting, music, decoration, design, fresh food and exceptional service were easily a highlight of the trip.
Top picks:
Drinks: Espresso martini
Aperitivo: Burrata with olives, cherry tomatoes & fresh pesto
Main dish: Homemade pumpkin ravioli
Dessert: Chocolate fudge cake with freshly whipped cream.
2. El Piccolino
My favourite Italian pick in Lloret de Mar. Tucked away from the tapas-infused main street, this restaurant is home to a wealth of Insanely scrumptious, Italian-inspired tapas, mains and desserts. With authentic, thin-based pizza and creamy al dente pasta (always my go-to vacation meal), there’s enough to satisfy just about everyone. If you’re a vino-lover, check out their selection of wines on offer too. My mouth is watering just thinking about it…
Top picks:
Drinks: Vermut Rojo
Aperitivo: Olive spread on a fresh baguette
Main dish: Lasaña or Margarita Pizza
Dessert: Gelato
3. Sweet Point
Easily the best dessert I’ve ever had in my entire life. No big deal. That’s only 24 years of determined & dedicated dessert hunting…
But in all seriousness, If you’re a sweet freak, seriously, do yourself a favour and swing by Sweet Point.
This place is home to some seriously satiating goodies, from loaded crepes & bubble waffles to ice cream and other treats. If sweets aren’t your thing, there’s also a variety of affordable savoury bites too.
I’d recommend a typical Spanish bocadillo (sandwich, but with a baguette). It’s also one of the better spots to save yourself a few pennies, considering it’s located away from the bustling main street.
Top pick:
Nutella Crepe filled with banana, Kinder Bueno ice cream, caramelised nuts, Snickers chocolate bars and freshly whipped cream. This sh*t was life-changing. Seriously.
Best Time to Visit Lloret de Mar
The best time to visit Lloret de Mar largely depends on your personal preferences, budget and travel style. Lloret de Mar boasts a Mediterranean climate, with mild winters and steaming hot summers.
In general, the shoulder seasons of spring, March to May, and autumn, September to November, are considered the best times to visit Lloret de Mar. During this period, you can expect pleasant weather, fewer crowds and more cost-friendly prices on accommodation, airfares, activities and transport.
That being said, if you prefer the summertime heat, wild fiestas and long beach days, visiting during the summer season is your best bet. Catamaran cruises, snorkelling and kayaking are just a handful of the best things to do in Lloret de Mar. Just make sure you book in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.
How to Get to Lloret de Mar
By Car
Without a doubt, the easiest way to get there is via car. From Barcelona to Lloret de Mar, it’s roughly a one-hour drive on the C-32. From Girona to Lloret de Mar, around 30 minutes via the A-2 or C-63.
I’d recommend downloading Google Maps before you set off on your adventure to avoid any hiccups that might pop up along the way. For a guaranteed low price on top of convenient booking options, head over to myrentacar.com. This is easily my go-to for all trips outside of the city.
By Train
My preferred option is almost always a high-speed train. Choo choo! From Barcelona, hop on a train at one of the following stations: Sants Estacio, Plaça de Catalunya, Arc de Triomf, or El Clot-Arago. A one-way ticket costs €6,15. Catch the train toward ‘Massanet-Massanes’, and get off at Blanes.
The journey will take around 90 minutes, and once you arrive, you can hop on a bus or jump in a taxi. A bus ticket from Pujol Bus Company will only cost around €2,00.
An alternative to the mainstream taxi service is catching rideshare, and I’d personally recommend checking out Blablacar. It’s safe and a great option if you travel on a tight budget.
Flights
The closest airport to Lloret de Mar is Girona Airport, and from this point, you can catch a bus via Sarfa buses.
Distance from Girona Airport to Lloret de Mar: 28km
That being said, frequent flights from Girona Airport aren’t too common, so you’ll likely have to fly into Barcelona El Prat Airport. You can catch a bus or high-speed train or hire a car from here.
Distance from Barcelona Airport to Lloret de Mar: 90km
By Bus
If you don’t hold a driver’s licence or get behind the wheel simply isn’t your thing, don’t fret because public transport can get you there too.
From Barcelona (the airport or Estaciò del Nord station) or Girona (Plaza d’Espanya station), you can get a bus run by Sarfa to Lloret de Mar.
Tickets usually cost around €10.00 one way.
FAQs
Why is Lloret de Mar famous?
Lloret de Mar is popular with international tourists, home to a haul of historic sites, beaches and a buzzing dining scene. There are many things to do in Lloret de Mar, from water parks and kayaking to catamaran cruises and dining. Offering Spanish charm with a resort vibe, this east coast spot reels in the crowds every summer.
Is it worth going to Lloret de Mar?
Lloret de Mar is ideal for families, couples and solo travellers. With attractions, theme parks, water sports and historical attractions, this gem is fit for all.
What is the main strip in Lloret de Mar?
The main area in Lloret de Mar is Avinguda Just Marlés Vilaarodona. As the most extensive strip, you can expect nightclubs, bars, restaurants, cafes and many stores.
Is there an old town in Lloret de Mar?
Lloret de Mar has an Old Town, but it’s not like your typical Catalan coastal villages. This area has been built-up with hotels and resorts, so it hasn’t maintained its original charm.
Is Lloret de Mar safe?
Yes, it is considered a safe location. However, as with most of Europe, be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas.
Is Lloret de Mar expensive?
Lloret de Mar is relatively cheap in comparison to bustling Barcelona. Accommodation, eating out, and activities are relatively affordable.
What’s the weather like in Lloret de Mar?
In Lloret de Mar, the summertime is hot and humid, whereas the winter is colder and windier. If you’re after a beach-infused style vacation, aim from June to September.
What language do they speak in Lloret de Mar?
The local languages spoken in Lloret de Mar are Catalan and Castellano (Spanish). Along the main street, English and French are widely spoken.
Is Lloret de Mar good for nightlife?
Boasting a wide variety of nightclubs, bustling pubs, luxury beach clubs, and casinos, it’s more than fair to say that the party scene here goes off.
Nestled along the forefronts of the Mediterranean, Lloret de Mar proffers possibilities for both avid adventurers, culinary fanatics and beach bums alike. Whether you want to sprawl around in the sun or eat your way into an unrelenting food coma, this iconic Spanish seaside town will leave you more than content and, quite possibly, crawling back for more…
This local’s guide to the 8 Best Things to do in Lloret de Mar, Catalonia, will undoubtedly tick all your boxes. What attraction are you looking forward to exploring?