Cadaques from barcelona: Barcelona to Cadaqués – Best Routes & Travel Advice

Barcelona to Cadaqués – Best Routes & Travel Advice

The distance between the capital of Spain’s Catalonia region, Barcelona, and the seaside town of Cadaqués, located on the region’s Costa Brava, is 85 miles (136 km). The easiest and quickest way to make the trip is by car (2 hours and 15 minutes), either renting one yourself or hiring a private car service.

While trains do not run directly to Cadaqués, an alternative option is to take the train to Figueres (1-2 hours) and take a taxi (45 minutes) or bus (1 hour) from there. Buses going directly from Barcelona to Cadaqués are the most affordable option, but they run only twice daily and will take 2 hours and 45 minutes.

For a luxurious, albeit expensive, travel experience to remember, consider chartering a luxury sailing or motor yacht. Many companies offer private day trips along the Costa Brava from Barcelona, with flexible itineraries and different price points based off of the type of boat.

For an overview of the best ways to spend your time in and around both Barcelona and the Costa Brava, check out kimkim’s 8 Day Itinerary.

By Rental Car or Private Transfer

Duration: 2 hour 15 minutes, more with stops

Having a car gives you the freedom to explore the route between Barcelona and Cadaqués, and perhaps take a few side trips along the Catalonian coast. Rental car companies abound in Barcelona, with Alamo, Enterprise, and Avis being the highest rated. Remember that non-EU driver’s license holders must obtain an International Driver’s Permit in order to drive in Spain.

The most direct route takes you along the AP-7 highway, not directly along the coast for the majority of the trip. This trip takes about 2 hours and 15 minutes, with many convenient options to stop at along the way like Girona. This city offers a fusion of ancient cultures including Roman, Greek, Moorish, Medieval, and Gothic. Wander the walled Old Quarter and visit sites like the Gothic Cathedral and the Roman remains of the Força Vella Fortress. Other cities that you will pass along the AP-7 route include Figueres, home to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, and Roses, an important fishing port close to your final destination.

Read more about unique places to see in the Catalonia region in the third option in 7 Days in Spain: 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas.

If you prefer not to drive, hiring a private transfer online is easy. Companies abound for car services from shared shuttles to private luxury vehicles, with prices just as variable.

By Train

Duration: 2 hours

While there is no direct train from Barcelona to Cadaqués, there is a convenient and quick option to take a quick train to Figueres and take a taxi or bus from there to Cadaqués. This is an ideal option if you prefer not to have your own car, but want to save a significant chunk of money on your car hire. It’s most recommended to those who want to visit Figueres along the way.

Renfe runs regular high speed trains, called AVE or AVN, from Barcelona-Sants Station to Figueres Vilifant (note that Figueres Station is different from Figueres Vilifant). The high speed trains take 1 hour, and depart about once an hour from 7 a.m. to 9:40pm. Figueres Vilifiant Station is located 23 miles from Cadaqués, or about 45 minutes by taxi. Taxis are available at the station, or easily booked online in advance for peace of mind. This option will cost about a third of the price of taking a private car the whole distance.

Renfe also runs regular trains from Barcelona-Sants Station to the Figueres Station stop, though these trains are closer to 2 hours in duration. The perks of choosing this route, is that from the Figueres Station stop, there are regional buses that will go directly to Cadaqués. Overall, this will be far cheaper than taking the high speed train and a taxi.

By Bus

Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes

The most affordable option is to take the bus directly from Aeroport BCN, the bus stop at Barcelona’s airport, or Barcelona Estacio del Nord to Cadaqués Estacio, only an 8 minute walk to Plaça del Passeig. The bus company Moventis runs two SARFA buses daily at 12 p.m. and 8:45 p.m., though schedules can vary by season and day.

If you opt for the bus, keep in mind that the road is steep and windy, so pack an anti-nausea pill or choose seats closer to the front.

By Private Boat Charter

Duration: Variable, minimum 2-3 hours

Both Barcelona and Cadaqués are coastal cities which means that the sea is another option for a more memorable travel experience. With many options for private boat charters, from fully crewed yachts to catamarans to small motorboats, there are endless decisions for getting from Barcelona to Cadaqués on the water.

Most companies offer full-day charters, noting that the trip from Barcelona to the Costa Brava normally takes 2-3 hours depending on weather conditions. Also note that Cadaqués is on the northern part of the Costa Brava, so will likely be at the longer end of that spectrum. Pre-planned sailing day or half-day trips have the added advantage of a knowledgeable crew and a stream-lined tour of the coast that will hit sites like Port Lligat or Cap de Creus National Park.

CADAQUES, SPAIN: The Best Day Trip From Barcelona

Right off the bat, I’m going to try to sell you on the idea of turning this day trip you’re planning into a weekend getaway. I know, I know, that’s not why you came to this post but hear me out (i.e., read the post). After realizing how gorgeous, how special, how fun Cadaques is, you’ll just want more time. So go ahead and make a weekend of it. You’re welcome. If you absolutely can’t, then you’re still in the right place. Cadaques really is the best day trip from Barcelona!

Cadaques is the white-washed, quaint seaside town in Costa Brava, not far from Roses. Aside from the incredible beauty, Cadaques is probably most known for being home to Salvador Dali for a time. Here you can find excellent food, beautiful art and architecture, and a very adorable collection of cats that roam the streets.

How To Get To Cadaques

First things first, whether you’re coming from Barcelona, Girona, or straight from your home country you’ve got just a couple of options. There is no train into Cadaques, so plan to either drive or take the bus.

BY CAR: By far the simplest route is to drive to town. From Barcelona, you’re looking at about two hours and from Girona, about 30 minutes. As you might imagine a drive-through Costa Brava is sure to be beautiful.

When you arrive you have a few options to park the car. Of course, your hotel or accommodation may provide spots but if not you have the Saba Public Parking Lot near the bus station or the lot next to Hotel Villa Gala. There are a couple more options further from the town center but both listed here are an easy walk to wherever you’re staying in town.

BY BUS (AND TRAIN): As I mentioned, there is no train into town, but you do have the option of a bus or combo bus/train routes.

FROM BARCELONA, you have two main options.

Option 1 – You can take the daily Moventis bus that departs midday from Barcelona Nord direct to Cadaqués. This will run you about €25 each way. There is a second departure on weekdays at 7 PM. You can buy your tickets online from the Moventis website (which is in Spanish) or at the station. You do not buy them on board.
Option 2 – Alternatively, you can take a train from Barcelona to Figueres, then a bus from Figueres to Cadaques. This option takes a bit longer but will save you some euro.
- For this route, take the Renfe train from Barcelona Sant Andreu Comtal to Figueres (€12 one way), then walk across the street to the bus station and catch the Moventis bus from Figueres to Cadaques (€3 one way). Be sure you are getting a train to Figueres Station and NOT Figueres Vilafant Station. The latter will have you walking half an hour across town or trying to catch the city bus. We know from experience and do not recommend it.

FROM GERONA, you can take the Moventis bus that runs every weekday at 1 PM from Girona Correos to Cadaques for €11 one way. The trip takes about 1h 45m.

Things To Do in Cadaques: Museums, Architecture, and Activities

Whether it’s for one day or one week you’ll certainly want to do more than just stare at the beautiful vistas…right? Maybe not. Once that gets boring you can move on to explore several fun things to do in Cadaques and the immediate area.

SALVADOR DALI HOUSE: Cadaques has attracted dozens of famous artists over the years but none as well-known at Salvador Dali. Born in nearby Figueres, he spent many years living here in Cadaques. You can even find the town’s influence in some of his works. His home is now a beautiful museum and olive grove that you can explore. Entrance times vary by season, so be sure to check online. Tickets are around €14, with discounts available for students, kids, and seniors.
SANTA MARIA DE CADAQUES: Perched on the highest point in Cadaques, and dating back to the 13th century, sits the gorgeous cathedral of Santa Maria de Cadaques. Our visit here was a highlight of our weekend in Cadaques. While we were there we met the most delightful local who we assumed to be a sort of caretaker of the church. He took us on a tour of sorts and we marveled at the incredible altarpiece that is the showstopper of the cathedral. You can get some of the best views in front of the church and exploring the nave is a free and quick stop, so don’t miss it!
FAR DE CALA NANS: Take a beautiful walk to this tiny lighthouse for some fresh coastal air and even more of those gorgeous views! The walk from town along the water takes anywhere from 45 minutes to an hour. If you’re not in a hurry stop along the way at the Mirador lookout or Sa Sabolla beach.
SUNBATHE OR PICNIC ON THE BEACH: The beaches in Costa Brava are not the super-soft sand you might find in Barcelona or elsewhere but they are great for hanging out in the warm Spanish sun, watching the boats come and go. In town, you have Platja Gran or Platja Port d’Alguer. Further out of the town center are Platja es Llaner Gran or Platja de Sortell.

Get Out of Town: Things to Do Just Outside Cadaques

If you’ve got a car or want to grab a taxi there are several excellent options to fill your day. Whether you’re looking to get your blood pumping with a hike or sip the finest wines Girona has to offer, you are in for a great time.

HIKE AT FAR DE CAP DE CREUS: Just a 20 minutes drive from Cadaques, Cap De Creus is a stunningly beautiful peninsula featuring a lighthouse and several hiking trails. Plan to start somewhere near the lighthouse (Far de Cap de Creus) and take any number of the trails nearby. Most of them lead to different small beaches around the area. If hiking isn’t your thing, there is a restaurant at the lighthouse and you could simply grab a drink and enjoy the hilltop ambiance.
EXPLORE THE EMPORDÁ WINE REGION: Did you know Girona is home it’s own official wine region, known as Empordá? Well, if you love rosé you are in luck! Known for producing the summery, pink drink (although there are a lot more varieties to try) Empordá is filled with seaside vineyards and romantic cellars like Cellar Martin Faixo, La Vinyeta, Mas Estela, or Masia Serra. If you’re looking to turn this day trip into a romantic getaway, it’s as easy as renting a car and going for a drive through the vineyards.

Where to Eat in Cadaques: The Best Restaurants in Cadaques

Cadaques is a gem of town for so many reasons but did you know it’s also home to some truly excellent dining options? Dining out in Cadaques can be a bit pricey, so bake that into your budget, but it is certainly worth it. Here is just a sampling, a tasting if you will, of the delicious bites and eats in Cadaques.

Compartir ($$$) – Go ahead and make that reservation because this fine dining establishment is the hottest plate in town. They are doing some special things with seafood at this spot! As the name suggests (meaning “to share”) these plates are designed to be enjoyed together. Fresh ingredients, beautiful presentation, and an airy courtyard to boot – you can’t go wrong!
El Gato Azul ($$) – Our favorite place in town by far! We went twice in two days. A casual ambiance and DELISH food (we recommend the falafel), this is a special place run by the sweetest people. Come a little early if you want one of the two outdoor tables, or sit inside for the great ambiance and the most eclectic playlist I’ve heard at a restaurant.
El Barroco ($$) – With an atmosphere like this place, it’s no wonder El Barroco has attracted artists and special guests of all kinds over its many decades in Cadaques. Famously beloved by Dali himself, this Lebanese restaurant serves up gorgeous dishes in a lush, green space that screams vacation to me.
Embolic ($) – Tucked away on a side street, this is the perfect casual spot for something a bit lighter. If you’re meat-free, as we usually are, you’ll find several good options here. We recommend Embolic for a delicious light lunch.
Restaurant Mama Aicha ($$) – This Halal restaurant with a mostly Morrocan menu dishes up couscous and tagine fit for Marrakech! A cozy family-run place, this is a great dinner spot for when you’ve had your refill of Spanish tapas.

Where to Stay in Cadaques: The Best Hotels in Cadaques

You started out planning a day trip and have quickly realized you need more of Costa Brava’s best town! Stay awhile. Cadaques isn’t an especially large town so expect accommodations to reflect that. At first look, I was afraid we’d be staying in a rinky-dink motel type place. What is labeled as 2 stars in Cadaques, in our opinion, is usually far better than expected!

Boutique Hotel Villa Gala (4 stars, $200+ per night) – Beautifully appointed rooms and well located, the Villa Gala is the perfect place for upscale accommodation in Cadaques. There is even a pool for lounging the afternoon away.
Hotel Playa Sol (4 stars, $200+ per night) – This beachfront spot is larger and boasts an olive grove onsite. With a pool large enough for everyone to enjoy this is a great spot for families or those looking to spend a bit more time on the property.
Hotel Ubaldo (1 star, $65+ per night) – We chose the Hotel Ubaldo for our stay in Cadaques and couldn’t be happier. It’s location was perfectly between the bus station and the beach. We think it was more of a 2-and-a half star place and would absolutely stay again.
Tramuntana Hotel (2 stars, $100+ per night) – Beautiful, coastal design and just down the street from our favorite cafe, El Gato Azul. The hotel has a garden and a terrace, and there is a shared lounge where you can relax with a drink. This would be a top choice for us for a second trip.

Of course, there are dozens more hotel and hostel options as well as AirBnBs so be sure to find just what works for you!

Tired of reading? Watch our travel vlog on YouTube! Be sure to like and subscribe if you enjoyed our video 😊

Jordan and I really feel Cadaques is the best town in Costa Brava and the perfect day (or weekend) trip from Barcelona. We still talk about how wonderful it was, more than a year later. Stroll the whitewashed streets, enjoy some excellent seafood, and get your hike on while you admire the gorgeous “Rough Coast”.

I hope this post was helpful in planning your next trip to Spain. If you enjoyed this content and want to support us in creating more like it, consider subscribing to our YouTube channel.

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How to get from Barcelona to Cadaqués

From

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Train

Take the Barcelona-Paseo De Gracia train at the Renfe Viajeros station.

Travel time 2 hours 20 minutes Fare from €13 Distance 158 km.

Carrier: Renfe Viajeros.

Buy ticket

Get off at Llansa.

Apanhar um táxi em Llansa.

Travel time 26 min. Fare from €24 Distance 20 km.

Carrier: Taxi Vilafant Lic. 2.

🚖 Find an inexpensive taxi

Get off at Cadaqués.

🛏 Find hotel deals and discounts up to 20% in Cadaqués

Bus

Take the Moventis bus at the Barcelona Nord stop.

Travel time 2 hours 45 minutes Fare from €2 Distance 173 km.

Carrier: Moventis.

Buy ticket

Get off at Cadaqués.

🛏 Find hotel deals and discounts up to 20% in Cadaqués

Train, line 12 bus

Take the Barcelona-Paseo De Gracia train at the Renfe Viajeros station.

Travel time 2 h 5 min. Fare from €12 Distance 139 km.

Carrier: Renfe Viajeros.

Buy ticket

Get off at Figueras.

Take the Moventis bus at the Figueres stop.

Travel time 1 h. Fare from €2 Distance 38 km.

Carrier: Moventis.

Buy ticket

Get off at Cadaqués.

🛏 Find hotel deals and discounts up to 20% in Cadaqués

By car

In a rented car. Check out this website which rental company offers the best deal with up to 20% discounts.

Travel time 1 h 58 min. Distance 171 km.

Get off at Cadaqués.

🛏 Find hotel deals and discounts up to 20% in Cadaqués

What is the cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Cadaques?

The cheapest way to get from Barcelona to Cadaqués is by bus. The trip will cost approximately €2. Travel time will be 2 hours 45 minutes.

What is the fastest way to get from Barcelona to Cadaques?

By car is the fastest way to get from Barcelona to Cadaqués. Tickets cost around €2. The trip will take 1 hour 58 minutes.

What is the distance between Barcelona and Cadaqués?

The distance between Barcelona and Cadaqués by road is 171 km, which is approximately 1 hour 58 minutes. on the way by car.

Is there a direct bus from Barcelona to Cadaques?

Yes, there is a direct non-stop bus to this destination. The flights are operated by the Moventis bus company. Tickets cost around €2. The bus ride from Barcelona to Cadaqués takes 2 hours and 45 minutes.

How long does it take to travel from Barcelona to Cadaqués by car?

Driving from Barcelona to Cadaqués will take you approximately 1 hour 58 minutes.

Cadaqués in Spain: how to get there and what to see

Cadaques in Spain is considered to be one of the most comfortable cities in the country. It is located near Barcelona, covers an area of about 26 km2. Tourists who visited Cadaques for the first time, as a rule, dream of returning here someday. The municipality attracts like a magnet with a special atmosphere of calm and serenity. People of creative professions from different parts of Spain often found refuge here. Previously, Cadaqués was considered a resort for celebrities who were not used to counting money, but at the moment things have changed somewhat. Only the charm of the snow-white fishing town does not change – Cadaqués in Spain definitely deserves the attention of travelers.

Cadaqués in Spain

Cadaqués has always been known for its clear blue water, but over time, man-made objects have received well-deserved recognition. From the very first minutes of your stay, moored fishing boats, very narrow streets and pleasant-looking houses of local residents are striking. There are mountain landscapes and amazing beauty of the sea – a real pearl of Spain.

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Cadaqués in Spain: what you need to know

Some interesting facts:

The city is located on the easternmost point of mainland Spain.
Cadaqués was once only accessible by water. Now it is easy to come from Barcelona by road in 1.5-2 hours.
Name derived from a French castle built nearby.
The population of Cadaques is approximately 3000 people.
The city attracts with lovely white houses, sea scent and olive groves. There are not so many iconic objects here, because the main thing is the atmosphere.
The suburb of Cadaqués is the birthplace of Salvador Dali. His works are known not only in Spain, but all over the world.

Cadaqués in Spain

Cadaqués in Spain is not yet 100% rid of the halo of a modest fishing village, located next to France, on the Costa Brava.

The city is separated from the rest of the country by mountain peaks, which form a special charm of these territories. In Cadaques, guests who want to relax in silence, contemplating the splendor of Spain, are welcomed with open arms. Here, work continues to increase accommodation options, but even its results are not enough to meet the needs of all comers.

The reason for the popularity of the city among tourists

Why is Cadaques so successful in capturing the hearts of travelers? There are several reasons for its popularity.

1. Unique gothic style

Cadaqués is dominated by a particular style of street decoration. The Gothic style here had to undergo a metamorphosis. Many white houses with cobbled streets, the size of which is far from modern ideas of comfort, the church of Santa Maria – all these are the charms of Cadaques in Spain.

Streets of Cadaqués

The idea that a former fishing village cannot look attractive and elegant disappears from the mind during the promenade. Special cleanliness is maintained here, the charming appearance of Cadaqués is guaranteed to be among the pleasant impressions of Spain. Unusual buildings can be explained by historical events: at the beginning of the 20th century, the able-bodied population went en masse to Cuba, planning to earn money. Upon returning to Cadaqués, the fishermen began building houses and villas, wanting to decorate them to the highest standard. One of these objects (the Blue House) was even included in the number of attractions.

2. Natural magic

The surprising tenderness of Cadaqués attracts all those who are looking for a place on the map of Spain where they can relax from the hustle and bustle. At one time, the city was able to inspire Salvador Dali to create masterpieces of fine art, and even now it is popular with artists, musicians, sculptors, architects who want to get a creative impulse.

A cursory examination reveals why Cadaqués in Spain is so popular with people who devote themselves to creativity and who want to temporarily abandon the usual confines of megacities.

3. Atmosphere conducive to creation

One of the advantages of Cadaqués in Spain is considered to be the fact that Salvador Dali worked here. Mediterranean nature in its almost pristine form, incredibly beautiful places are the factors that influenced the artist’s worldview. In Cadaques, a number of masterpieces of ingenious genius were created.

Dali is not the only famous person to have ever lived in a city in eastern Spain. Personalities such as Picasso, Matisse, Max Ernst and André Derain have been here. They also contributed to the rise of Cadaqués by spreading the word about it throughout the country. Every summer, admirers of the genius Salvador Dali, representatives of artistic bohemia come here. In your free time, you can look into art galleries and a couple of museums.

Cadaqués in Spain: main sights

1. Dali’s House Museum – must see

The House Museum was invented by Salvador Dali without outside help. The artist managed to create a unique labyrinth of Cadaqués, having independently developed the image of the fishing huts, which were transformed into a museum. Visitors have the right to visit the workshop, living quarters, garden and library. This attraction of Cadaques is characterized by a unique atmosphere. More information – follow the link.

2. Church of St. Mary

On the territory of the city there is a building built according to the precepts of the Gothic. You can find it at the highest point of Cadaqués.

One of the towers of the church has a very impressive bell tower. When describing the interior decoration of the temple, the main attention is drawn to the 17th century altar with the image of the Virgin Mary. In the process of climbing to the object, a view of the colorful city of Spain opens up. With any luck, the beauties of Cadaqués will be presented to the sound of organ music from the church. It is hardly realistic to find suitable means of expression to convey the emotions that permeate the body at these moments. It may seem that familiar reality has given way to a European fairy tale.

3. Cat’s house

The probability of being disappointed after visiting this attraction of Cadaqués is extremely small. A three-story house is equipped on the territory of the city, recognized as a source of purring happiness. All this wealth is in charge of the cat lady to the marrow and bones. The house is located near the church.

4. Cadaques embankment

Despite its modest size, hardly anyone would dare to accuse the embankment of a lack of aesthetics and attractiveness. This is a truly striking attraction that can surprise travelers. The ideal option is to start the morning with a cup of aromatic coffee in your hands, enjoying its taste and gentle sea surf. There is also a monument in honor of Federico Garcia Lorca, a famous poet and playwright in Spain. Nearby is a monument dedicated to Dali.

Cadaques in Spain: how to spend your free time

• Get to know the local cuisine. Cadaques is still a fishing village, albeit a rather non-standard one, so the fish dishes here are simply amazing.
• Walk the streets, noting the most interesting details for yourself. There are more of them than it might seem at first glance.
• Rent a motorboat and start exploring the beauties of the Costa Brava. Group ferry excursions are also available to everyone.
• Go diving and windsurfing. Cadaques is one of the best points on the map of Spain for lovers of extreme water sports.

What to see near Cadaqués

1. Cap de Creus.

The cape is not just a decoration of the Costa Brava, but also the easternmost point of Spain. On the way, you will meet a deserted coast, quite unusual for the Costa Brava. You can freely visit the nature reserve of the cape, and you can rent a room in these places for about 70 euros.

2. Empuriabrava – Venice in Spain

Not far from Cadaqués is the pretty town of Empuriabrava. The connection with Venice is explained by an extensive canal network of approximately 37 km.

3. Roses: where in Spain to hide from the ubiquitous tourists

In 15 minutes from Cadaqués you can reach a picturesque corner of the coast. It is notable for the bay in the form of a many-kilometer arc.

4. Castellón de Ampurías, a village almost untouched since the Middle Ages

The atmosphere of complete silence and a feeling of slight fear are perfect descriptions of the village near Cadaqués. In contrast to the nearest settlements, it seems that Castellón de Empurias is a time machine that sends you back many centuries.

Cadaqués in Spain: the road from Barcelona

Train

From Barcelona – Passeig de Gracia trains leave every 30-60 minutes to Figueres. The entrance to the station is easy to find right at Casa Batlló. After descending, follow the signs.

The trains required in this case run to Figueras and PortBou.
The best solution would be vehicles with the letters “MD”. It’s all about increased comfort.
The exact train schedule is available at Trenes.com.

Duration of trip : 1h 40m.
One way ticket : 16 euro

Next, you need to take a bus to Cadaqués. The ticket costs 4.50€. The trip lasts approximately 40 minutes.

Bus

From the capital of Catalonia to Cadaqués there are direct buses twice a day – at 12 and 19 hours. Starting point – North Station.
Buses run in the opposite direction at 06:45 and 15:15.
The exact timetable is available on the Spanish carrier’s website.

Duration of trip : 2 h 15 m.

Cadaques on the map of Spain

How to avoid queues at Barcelona attractions. Tickets for the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell skipping the line.
How not to be deceived by local taxi drivers. Order a taxi in advance with fixed rates online. The most reliable service for ordering a taxi is KiwiTaxi .
Excursions in Barcelona with locals will help you get to know this city for real. The best way to get comfortable in an unfamiliar city is to walk around it with a person who has lived here for many years.