Best of Catalonia, Self-drive

Explore the proud region of Catalonia with this magical five-day driverless tour that begins and ends in Barcelona. Discover picturesque mountain villages such as Seu d'Urgell, or the fantastic beaches of Lloret. Travel through green valleys and breathtaking mountain landscapes and experience the natural beauty of the Catalan countryside. Immerse yourself in the surreal world of extrovert artist Salvador Dalí and the imaginative architecture of modernist master Antoni Gaudí. This tour presents all the attractions that have made Catalonia such a fascinating destination

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

Poblet: Explore the town of L’Espluga de Francoli and the magnificent walled monastery of Poblet en route to this historic market town  

Garrotxa: Stroll through the craggy village of Castellfollit de la Roca and beautiful Besalu during the journey through this scenic highland area

Figueres: The spirit of surrealist artist Salvador Dali lives on in his home town as a visit to the entertaining theatre-museum dedicated to him will reveal

Barcelona: Visit iconic Gaudi creations such as Park Güell and the Sagrada Familia basilica, and stroll along the Ramblas 

Montserrat: Pay homage to La Moreneta, Catalonia’s patron saint, in this monastery high up in the mountains 

Day 1: ARRIVAL BARCELONA

Arrive at Barcelona airport and pick up your car. Enjoy this magnificent city. isit the Park Güell in the northwestern suburbs of the city and see what Gaudi’s vision of an ideal ‘garden city’ was. The park remains unfinished but enough was built to captivate the imagination, with a myriad of mosaics made from irregular and broken pieces of tiles. Enjoy the views over Barcelona and the Mediterranean before continuing to the still unfinished Sagrada Familia basilica, with designs that stretched the realms of the imagination and have made it the iconic symbol of the city. The basilica has three fascinating façades, one of which – the surreal Nativity façade – was more or less completed before Gaudi’s passing, and only recently the roof of the nave has been completed. 

Overnight in Barcelona area.

Day 2: BARCELONA – LLORET DE MAR (80 Km – 1.5 hrs)

Enjoy breakfast and drive to Lloret de Mar. Lloret is a Mediterranean beach town just 75km far from Barcelona. You will be able to enjoy some of the crystal blue waters in your way. But culture will also be present as you will admire the church of Sant Roma or walk through the Puig de Castellet Iberian ruins. After enjoying the nightlife. 

Overnight in Lloret de Mar.

Day 3: LLORET DE MAR – PALAMOS – PALAFRUGEL – BEGUR – LLORET DE MAR (140 Km – 2 hrs)

Breakfast at the hotel. Today we suggest to explore some of the charming villages on the Costa Brava passing by impressive cliffs, beaches of golden sand and typical Mediterranean landscapes. First stop is Palamos with its fascinating landscape. Stroll around the streets and enjoy the different views. Continue along the coast towards Palafrugell. The cork industry has determined the village’s evolution and present appearance. It preserves the original layout of the streets and its white houses. The harbour is home to brightly coloured traditional boats, contrasting the white buildings and golden sand of the beach. Continue to the village of Begur, which sits at the foot of an austere castle on a hill. The view from the top is stunning, from where you can contemplate the intense blue of the Mediterranean.   

Overnight in Lloret de Mar.

Day 4: LLORET DE MAR – BARCELONA (80 Km – 1.5 hrs)

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before leaving towards the lively city of Barcelona. Perhaps explore Barcelona’s historic Gothic Quarter. Stroll through narrow cobbled streets and alleys, which open up to picturesque plazas with café terraces and secluded churches. Admire Santa Eulalia Cathedral and the churches of Santa Maria del Mar and Santa Maria del Pi, three outstanding examples of Catalan Gothic architecture, and behold the medieval majesty of the former royal palace at the Plaça del Rei. 

Overnight in Barcelona.

Day 5: DEPARTURE BARCELONA

Begin your last day in Barcelona with a tasty breakfast. Then, at the appropriate time, head towards the rental company to return the vehicle. Catch your departure flight back home.

Comfortable and warm clothing is the most suitable for travelling. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay.