Road trips in Empordà and Girona: the best routes to discover Catalonia at your own pace

April 1st 2025
Hotel Encís Empordà

Exploring Empordà and the province of Girona by car is one of the best ways to discover its diverse landscapes, history, and charm. From medieval villages to panoramic roads along Costa Brava, this region offers unforgettable itineraries to explore with complete freedom. In this article, we propose the best road trips in Empordà and Girona, with must-stop points to enjoy its nature, gastronomy, and heritage.
 

1. Route of the medieval villages of Empordà

🛣️ Itinerary:

Begur – Pals – Peratallada – Monells – La Bisbal d’Empordà

This route is perfect for history and architecture lovers. In a short but charming journey, you can visit some of the best-preserved medieval villages in Catalonia.

  • Begur: A village with a castle on the hilltop and impressive views of the Mediterranean.
  • Pals: With its stone old town and a viewpoint overlooking the rice fields.
  • Peratallada: Cobblestone streets, stone houses, and a charming atmosphere.
  • Monells: Its arcaded square is one of the most picturesque in Empordà.
  • La Bisbal d'Empordà: The capital of artisanal ceramics, ideal for buying unique pieces.

Take your time to stroll without rushing, have a coffee on a terrace, and enjoy the tranquility of these villages.
 

2. Panoramic route along Costa Brava

🛣️  Itinerary:

Blanes – Tossa de Mar – Sant Feliu de Guíxols – Calella de Palafrugell – Llafranc – Cadaqués

If you’re looking for a scenic road with spectacular sea views, this route along Costa Brava is ideal. The GI-682 road, connecting Tossa de Mar and Sant Feliu de Guíxols, is one of the most beautiful in Catalonia, with curves along cliffs and coves with crystal-clear waters.

  • Blanes: The starting point of Costa Brava, with its Marimurtra Botanical Garden.
  • Tossa de Mar: Its walled enclosure and beach make it a must-stop.
  • Sant Feliu de Guíxols: With a charming port and an authentic Mediterranean atmosphere.
  • Calella de Palafrugell and Llafranc: Fishing villages with idyllic beaches and excellent gastronomy.
  • Cadaqués: One of the most beautiful villages in Spain, home to Salvador Dalí.

Make stops at the small hidden coves to swim in crystal-clear waters and dine at a restaurant with sea views.
 

Scenic Route along the Costa Brava
 

3. Route through Alt Empordà and Cap de Creus Natural Park

🛣️ Itinerary:

Figueres – Castelló d’Empúries – Roses – Cap de Creus – Port de la Selva

This route combines art, nature, and wild landscapes. Start in Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, and continue along the coast to the impressive Cap de Creus Natural Park.

  • Figueres: Visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum, an unmissable surrealist work.
  • Castelló d'Empúries: A village with a medieval old town and the Empordà Wetlands Natural Park.
  • Roses: The gateway to paradisiacal coves and nautical activities.
  • Cap de Creus: A unique rocky landscape in Spain, with spectacular views.
  • Port de la Selva: A fishing village with tranquil beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.

Walk the trails of Cap de Creus and enjoy the sunset at the lighthouse with views of the Mediterranean.
 

4. Inland Route of Girona: Between Volcanoes and Forests

🛣️ Itinerary:

Girona – Banyoles – Besalú – Castellfollit de la Roca – La Garrotxa

This route takes you to the interior of Girona, where you’ll find volcanic landscapes, lakes, and villages full of history.

  • Girona: Explore its old town, the Cathedral, and the houses along the Onyar River.
  • Banyoles: With its lake, ideal for walking or kayaking.
  • Besalú: One of the most impressive medieval villages in Catalonia.
  • Castellfollit de la Roca: Situated on a basalt cliff with spectacular views.
  • La Garrotxa: A region of dormant volcanoes and trails through beech forests.

Try the volcanic cuisine of La Garrotxa, based on local products and traditional recipes.
 

Inland Route through Girona: Between Volcanoes and Forests
 

5. Route of monasteries and castles in Girona

🛣️ Itinerary:

Sant Pere de Rodes – Monasterio de Ripoll – Castillo de Montsoriu

For history lovers, this route takes you to discover some of the most impressive medieval monuments in Girona.

  • Sant Pere de Rodes: A Benedictine monastery with views of Cap de Creus.
  • Monastery of Ripoll: A jewel of Catalan Romanesque architecture, with an impressive cloister.
  • Montsoriu Castle: A medieval fortress with spectacular views.

Enjoy the tranquility of these places, take your time, and immerse yourself in their history and architecture.
 

Encís d'Empordà: The ideal hub to explore these road trips

Located in the heart of Empordà, Encís d'Empordà is the perfect accommodation for those who want to explore this region by car. Its strategic location allows easy access to the best routes of Costa Brava, medieval villages, the volcanic area of La Garrotxa, and historical monasteries. After a day exploring these spectacular landscapes, there’s nothing better than returning to a cozy and charming place. For an even more special experience, choose a charming accommodation to rest after each day of exploration.

Encís d'Empordà is a boutique hotel perfect for those seeking comfort, authenticity, and a strategic location to explore the region.

Book your stay at Encís d'Empordà and get ready to live an unforgettable road adventure.

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