Blanes
Plan Blanes with Haqqi Tours: day tours, private airport transfers, attraction tickets and packages, run by our own team and confirmed on WhatsApp in Arabic or English.
Early morning in Blanes, and the fishing boats are already heading out past Sa Palomera, the rocky islet joined to the beach that marks the very start of the Costa Brava. Plane trees shade the Passeig de Mar, a baker rolls up his shutter, and the first swimmers wade into calm, clear water. Above the town, pines and cliffs catch the sun, and on the headland a botanical garden glows green and gold over the Mediterranean.
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Blanes Attraction Tickets
View allBlanes at first sight
Blanes is the southern gateway to the Costa Brava, a working fishing town on the coast of Catalonia that has kept its everyday character. Its port still fills with boats each afternoon, its old streets hide a Gothic fountain and church, and its hills shelter clifftop gardens and quiet coves. It is relaxed, welcoming and easy to reach from Barcelona and Girona, an ideal first taste of this rugged and beautiful coast.
Why include Blanes in your itinerary?
- A garden on the edge of the sea. The Marimurtra Botanical Garden spills down the cliffs above the Mediterranean, with terraces of cacti, palms and flowering plants from warm climates around the world, and a small classical temple that frames the most photographed view on this stretch of coast.
- Where the Costa Brava begins. The rock of Sa Palomera marks the official starting point of the Costa Brava, and from here the coastline turns wild, with pine-covered headlands, hidden coves and clear water stretching north towards Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar.
- A real fishing town. Unlike many resorts, Blanes keeps a busy fishing fleet. Every afternoon the boats return to the port to land the day's catch, and the town's seafood dishes, from fish stew to black rice, are rooted in this living tradition.
Signature experiences in Blanes
Marimurtra Botanical Garden
Set on the cliffs south of the town, Marimurtra is a botanical garden of rare beauty, with winding paths, staircases and terraces descending towards the sea. Wander among giant cacti, succulents, palms and fragrant Mediterranean plants, then reach the small temple overlooking the turquoise cove of Sa Forcanera. We provide entry tickets so you can visit at your own pace, ideally in the soft light of the morning or late afternoon.
Sa Palomera and the Seafront
Start at Sa Palomera, the rocky outcrop joined to the shore that marks the beginning of the Costa Brava, and climb the short path to its top for wide views of the bay and the beaches. Then follow the Passeig de Mar, a promenade shaded by plane trees and lined with cafés and ice-cream shops, towards the old town and the port.
Sant Joan Castle and Hilltop Views
On the hill above the town stand the ruins of Sant Joan Castle and its round medieval watchtower, built to guard the coast from pirates. The climb through pine woods is short but steep, and the reward is a sweeping panorama over Blanes, the long beach of S'Abanell, the Tordera river mouth and the coastline stretching south towards Barcelona. Late afternoon offers the warmest light.
Coves and the Coast by Boat
South of the port, a chain of small coves hides between rocky headlands, including Sa Forcanera, Cala Sant Francesc, Santa Anna and Treumal, with clear water perfect for swimming and snorkelling. In summer, coastal boats link Blanes with Lloret de Mar and Tossa de Mar, revealing cliffs and sea caves from the water. Our team can help you plan a relaxed day along this coast.
The Fishing Port and Local Flavours
In the afternoon, the fishing boats return to the port and the catch goes straight to the auction hall, a scene that has shaped Blanes for centuries. Afterwards, taste the town's seafood traditions: suquet fish stew, black rice cooked with squid, grilled prawns and fresh anchovies, finished with a creamy crema catalana. Our team can point you to welcoming local restaurants near the harbour.
Neighbourhoods and quarters to know in Blanes
The Old Town and Passeig de Mar
The historic centre sits just behind the seafront promenade, with narrow streets, the Gothic church of Santa Maria, the old Gothic fountain and plenty of small shops and cafés. It is the most convenient base for first-time visitors, close to the beach, the port and the bus station. The atmosphere is lively but relaxed, and the promenade is lovely for an evening stroll.
S'Abanell Beach
North of Sa Palomera, the long sandy beach of S'Abanell stretches towards the Tordera river, backed by hotels, apartments and campsites shaded by pines. It suits families and travellers who want a wide beach with space for children, watersports and calm swimming. The area is flat and easy to walk, with a seafront path leading back to the town centre.
The Port and Sa Palomera
Around the harbour, the town feels authentic and maritime, with fishing boats, the auction hall, the yacht club and seafood restaurants. It is a short walk to the old town and the beaches on either side, and a good choice for travellers who enjoy watching daily life by the water and want to be close to the coastal boats.
Sant Francesc and the Southern Coves
South of the town, the residential hills around Sant Francesc are green and peaceful, with villas, pine woods and steps leading down to small coves. Staying here puts you close to Marimurtra and the quietest swimming spots, away from the summer crowds. It suits couples and travellers with a car or private transfer, as the slopes are steep.
How long to stay in Blanes and how to pair it
Recommended stay
We recommend two or three nights in Blanes. One day for Marimurtra, Sant Joan Castle and the old town, one for the coves and a boat trip along the coast to Tossa de Mar, and a third to visit Girona or simply enjoy the beach. With more time, use Blanes as a calm base for exploring the wider Costa Brava.
How to pair it
Blanes pairs naturally with Barcelona, about an hour away by road or train, for its great architecture and museums. A week can combine Barcelona, Blanes and Girona, with its medieval old quarter and riverside houses. With ten days, continue north along the Costa Brava to Tossa de Mar, Calella de Palafrugell and Figueres for a complete journey through Catalonia.
Best time to visit Blanes and the rhythm of the day
Best months
The best time to visit Blanes is from May to June and in September, when the sea is warm, the gardens are in bloom and the beaches are pleasantly quiet. July and August are hot and busy, with the famous international fireworks competition lighting up the bay in late July. Winters are mild but calm, and some seasonal hotels close.
The daily rhythm
Blanes moves at a gentle seaside pace. Mornings are for the beach or Marimurtra before the heat, lunch is served from about half past one, and the early afternoon is quiet. In the late afternoon, locals gather at the port as the boats return, then walk along the Passeig de Mar. Dinner usually begins from half past eight or nine.
On-the-ground logistics in Blanes
Arrival
Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO) is about thirty-five to forty minutes from Blanes by road, and Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) is about an hour and ten minutes away. Regional trains from Barcelona stop at Blanes station, a short ride from the centre, and buses arrive in the town itself. We arrange private transfers from either airport or the station directly to your hotel.
Getting around
The old town, the promenade, the port and Sa Palomera are all within easy walking distance. Local buses connect the station, the beaches and the residential areas, and there are frequent buses to Lloret de Mar. Marimurtra and the castle involve uphill walks, so comfortable shoes help. For day trips to Girona or Figueres, a private car with driver arranged by our team is the most relaxed option.
Local etiquette tip
Blanes is part of Catalonia, where Catalan and Spanish are both spoken, and a friendly bon dia is warmly received. Dress respectfully in churches and keep swimwear for the beach and promenade. Respect the paths and plants in the botanical garden, and do not climb on rocks or walls. Tipping is modest and optional, and meal times are later than in many countries.
Must-do things in Blanes
- Wander the clifftop terraces of Marimurtra Botanical Garden
- Climb Sa Palomera, the rock where the Costa Brava begins
- Watch the fishing boats return to the port in the afternoon
- Hike up to Sant Joan Castle for panoramic views
- Swim in the clear water of Cala Sant Francesc
- Stroll the plane-shaded Passeig de Mar at sunset
- Take a coastal boat to Tossa de Mar in summer
- Taste black rice and suquet fish stew by the harbour
- See the old Gothic fountain and church in the town centre
- Watch the international fireworks over the bay in late July
Do’s and don’ts in Blanes
Do
- Do visit Marimurtra early or late to avoid the heat
- Do wear comfortable shoes for the hilly paths
- Do book hotels well ahead for July and August
- Do try the fresh local fish and seafood rice dishes
- Do keep sun cream and water with you on the beach
Don’t
- Don't pick plants or leave paths in the botanical garden
- Don't swim far out where boats pass near the coves
- Don't wear swimwear in shops and restaurants in town
- Don't expect dinner to be served much before half past eight
- Don't leave belongings unattended on busy summer beaches
Blanes at a glance
Plan Blanes with Haqqi Tours
Every option is confirmed by our team on WhatsApp before you pay, and delivered by our own people or by trusted local partners we work with in every city. Because we send travellers from all over the world, our partners give us special rates and priority, so you always receive the best. Prices are per person unless marked per vehicle.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Straight answers to what travellers ask most about Blanes.
Where should first-time visitors stay in Blanes?
First-time visitors usually stay in the old town near the Passeig de Mar, close to the beach, the port, restaurants and buses. Families often prefer S'Abanell beach for its wide sand, while couples enjoy the quiet hills of Sant Francesc. Our team can suggest a hotel in any of these areas and arrange your private airport transfer.
Can Blanes be done as a day trip, or does it need an overnight stay?
Blanes is an easy day trip from Barcelona or Girona, and a single day is enough for Marimurtra, Sa Palomera and the seafront. Staying one or two nights lets you enjoy the coves, the port at sunset and a boat trip along the coast. We arrange private transfers and garden tickets to fit your schedule.
What is the dress code and etiquette in Blanes?
Dress in Blanes is casual and relaxed, but cover up when leaving the beach and when visiting churches. Comfortable shoes are useful for the garden, castle and coastal paths. Greet people politely, respect the botanical garden rules and expect later meal times. Tipping is appreciated but never obligatory, and our team is happy to explain local customs.
Is Blanes tourist friendly?
Yes. Blanes has welcomed visitors for generations and is used to travellers from around the world, while keeping the feel of a real fishing town. Restaurants offer plenty of fish, seafood and vegetable dishes, and a few halal butchers and kebab shops can be found in the town; Barcelona offers a much wider choice of halal restaurants.
Is it safe to travel to Blanes now?
Blanes is generally considered a safe and peaceful town for visitors. Keep an eye on belongings on busy summer beaches, follow lifeguard flags when swimming and take care on steep coastal paths. Before departure, check your own government's official travel advice, and keep our WhatsApp line handy throughout your stay.
What are the must-do things in Blanes?
The must-do things in Blanes include Marimurtra Botanical Garden, the rock of Sa Palomera, the view from Sant Joan Castle, the coves of Sant Francesc and Santa Anna, the fishing port at sunset and a coastal boat to Tossa de Mar. Our team can combine these in the best order and timing.
How many days do you need in Blanes?
Two days is ideal for Blanes: one for Marimurtra, the castle and the old town, and one for the coves and a boat trip along the coast. A single day covers the highlights at a quicker pace, while three or four days allow excursions to Girona, Tossa de Mar and the wider Costa Brava.
What can I book in Blanes with Haqqi Tours?
Attraction tickets. Each has its own page, and the WhatsApp desk combines any of them into one plan with one written price.
How do I get from the airport to my hotel in Blanes?
With a private transfer: a driver at arrivals, flight tracking and a fixed price for the whole vehicle, door to door. Tell the desk the flight number and the hotel.
Is there public transport from the airport to Blanes?
Public options vary by airport and end at a station rather than your hotel; the private transfer starts at the arrivals door and ends at your door.
Which tours are available in Blanes?
Tours in Blanes are arranged on request by the desk - tell us what you want to see and how many days you have.
Are the tours private or in a group?
Both exist, and each tour page says which. A private tour has a vehicle and guide for your party alone; the desk can make most group tours private on request.
How do I book?
Fill in the form on any page or message us on WhatsApp with the date, the number of travellers and the hotel. A member of our team confirms the price and the details in writing within minutes.
Are the prices fixed?
Yes - every price is agreed in writing on WhatsApp before you travel and does not change on the day.
Do the drivers and guides speak Arabic or English?
It depends on the city and the day, so we do not promise a particular language; tell us your preference and we do our best. The WhatsApp desk always works in Arabic and English.
Can I change or cancel a booking in Blanes?
Yes, in the same WhatsApp conversation. The terms depend on the product and on how close to the date the change comes; the desk states them before you pay.