17 Fun Things to do in Sitges!
Now that you’ve read my Ultimate Sitges Staycation Guide, here’s the extended list of Fun Things to do in Sitges!
I did all of this in a day and a half, but if you’re looking to relax more, I’d suggest staying longer! Don’t forget to also check out my Best Photo Spots in Sitges post, and to save these on your Pinterest for later trip planning!
Note: This trip and post was done entirely out of pocket, so if you enjoy the free info, please leave me some love in the comments or even better, SHARE on social media, so I can keep doing what I do! Thank you!!
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Walk the Entire Sitges Beach Front
There are 17 total beaches in Sitges, some are far, some are secluded, some are busy, and some are nude! If you have a lot of time, try to walk the entire distance of all of them! Or if you’re limited on time, start at Platja San Sebastia and walk all the way towards the marina and end at the nudist beach, Platja del Balmains!
It’s a bit of a hike, but the views are absolutely worth it!
Have Drinks at a Chiringuito
Chiringuito means beach bar, and there are many of them in Sitges! They might be a bit on the pricey side since they’re literally on the sand, but worth it if you want to cool down from the hot sun!
Take in Views from a Rock Pier
You’ll notice there are several rock piers that separate the many beaches. If you carefully walk to the end of them, you’ll find they also offer stunning views of the beach and city! They’re also a sand-free alternative for sunbathing!
Search for Blue and White Streets
Santorini and Tunisia aren’t the only places with cute white and blue streets! If you stroll around the Old City, you’ll find several blue and white streets that are absolutely adorable, and photo worthy!
Eat Paella on the Beach Front
Eating paella in Spain might sound cliche, but it’s an absolute must! Especially in a Mediterranean sea town! Most of the restaurants serve paella, and they do so in several different methods. For example, you can get “arroz negro” (black rice that gets its color from squid ink) or get the rice replaced with noodles!
Something I noticed in the Paella in Sitges that I didn’t see in Barcelona is the use of whole baby squids! It’s a little freaky and I’m not 100% sold on the taste, but worth trying!
Have a Photoshoot in Palau de Maricel
Palau de Maricel (not to be confused with the museum counterpart) is a photo-lovers heaven! With blue, white, and yellow tiles everywhere, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a riad in Morocco!
Get tickets in advance online for a discount and to make sure they’re available!
Cool off with Culture in Museo de Maricel
If the weather is cloudy or you need a break from the sun, definitely check out Museo de Maricel! It’s located inside the pretty white and beige building everyone takes photos at, and has some stunning views of the sea from inside!
It’s actually pretty big with multiple floors so expect to spend a couple hours there!
Find the Clock Tower
Full honest, I accidentally found the clocktower after a few glasses of wine, so I don’t fully remember what the area was like around it aside from lots of cute restaurants! I’ve pinned it anyway, but if you want to make it fun, try finding it without the map!
Bar Hop in Sitges Old City at Night
After a long day at the beach, and perhaps a siesta, freshen up and hit the streets of Old CIty for some fun bar hopping! There are a wide range of options, from sitting and sipping wine outside to dancing in a raging gay club!
Visit a Nude Beach
Most of us hear “nude beach” and are immediately shocked or intrigued.
Nude beaches are something that sound rare and taboo for most of us (like me coming from the U.S.), but are quite normal in Europe.
In Sitges there are two main nude beaches; Platja d’Aiguadolç and Platja del Balmains. Both are east of the church by the sea and require a bit of walking uphill to get to. Don’t worry, just because others get nakey, doesn’t mean you have to!
Walk Up to the Marina for Great Views
On the way to the marina and nude beaches there is a beach club uphill with amazing views of the little town and beach below! Stop and have a drink there if you have time, and soak in the view!
Go to a Rooftop Bar
I purposely stayed at Hotel MiM because of their glorious looking rooftop! But then I realized you don’t have to be a guest to go up there! (Well, this is written right after lockdown so the rules might be stricter when things go back to normal). Just buy a drink or appetizer and enjoy the views!
Take a Tour of the Bacardi Museum
This was on most blogs and websites list of best things to do in Sitges so of course I had to check it out! I also wanted to do something I knew my boyfriend would enjoy, since running around taking pictures and playing at the beach isn’t exactly his cup of tea.
It’s only about $15 for a tour and then you get a cocktail making class and a drink! It was definitely a cute activity, especially if you need a break from the sun!
Find All of the Best Photo Spots
Obviously it is my job to find the best photo spots, and Sitges made my job very easy! If you love photography and want some tips for the best spots to shoot, check out my guide (yes there are a lot so I had to make a separate post!) Best Photo Spots in Sitges.
Buy a Unique Handicraft
You’ll see several people selling jewelry or other handicrafts around SItges. Almost all of them come from another country, and sell things from there, or that they make. Some of the items are really nice, and not too expensive either!
I bought a pair of peacock feather earrings with Tiger Eye stones from a guy from Morocco for only $10! He even accepted credit cards!
Sunbathe and Swim
This may sound obvious, but I added it in any way as a reminder to stop and enjoy what Sitges is known for! It’s beautiful beaches! Trust me the water in Sitges is much nicer than in Barcelona, so swim and splash in it for as long as you can!
best things to do
10 Things to do and see in Sitges, Spain
Sitges is a beautiful beach community 25 miles from Barcelona.
This makes it a great place to visit for a day trip if you are staying in the city. However, there are many things to do in the town so it is better if you can spend a few days here. Like every beach community, it gets busy during Spain’s hot summers, so I recommend you visit during shoulder season, late spring, or early fall. The weather is still warm enough to enjoy the beach, but the town is not as busy, and hotel prices can be lower. When visiting Sitges, here are 10 things to do to make the most of your trip.
Relax on the Beach
©iStock/MadrugadaVerde
Most people go to Sitges to spend some time on the beach. Sitges has 17 beaches totaling about 2 miles. Of these 17 beaches, five are nudist or gay, or both. The beaches can get very busy during the summer months; however, you will still want to go and cool off. One of the great things about Sitges is the weather, which makes the beach enjoyable almost all year-round. December to March are the coldest months, but you will always see a few people on the beach.
Visit the Cau Ferrat Museum
The Cau Ferrat Museum was the home of Santiago Rusiñol. He was a Catalan songwriter and artist, as well an important figure in the Modernism movement. Located next to Sant Sebastià beach the museum was founded in 1893 and became a public museum in 1933. On display are ancient and modern pieces of ceramics, paintings, furniture, sculptures, and more. It includes works by Picasso, Zuloaga, Enric Clarasó, R. Pichot, and many others.
Tour the Palau de Maricel Museum
©iStock/lamiel
Located in one of the most symbolic buildings in Sitges, the Palau de Maricel is a museum and events center. The entire complex is also known as Maricel de Terra. The museum contains more than 3,000 artifacts, some of which date back to the 10th century. Guided tours of the museum are available every Sunday. In the summer months, concerts and outdoor dinners take place on the terraces. There are several halls throughout the complex that host cultural events, civic proceedings, concerts, and numerous private affairs.
Visit El Vivero Beach Club
Have dinner or a drink at Vivero Beach Club Restaurant with stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea and the town. Situated above a small cliff, next to San Sebastián de Sitges beach, the beach club is bordering two coves. During the day, you can enjoy a snack or relax with a cocktail enjoying the views. It is a great place to see the sunset and savor excellent Mediterranean food. Nighttime can be enjoyed with live music. Alternately, you can experience a relaxing massage, enjoy some water activities, and take a Tai Chi or Yoga class in the morning.
Visit San Bartolome Church and Santa Tecla Parish
©iStock/ Carlos_bcn
The church of San Bartolome and Santa Tecla is the parish of Sitges, known as Iglesia de San Bartolomé y Santa Tecla. Clues within the church suggest it was built, or another church was originally built, in the same location back in the 14th century. Most of what you see now was built in the 17th century and it has received many modifications and renovations over the past centuries.
The parish dominates the surrounding buildings as it overlooks the beach. The organ in it is 320 years old this year (2019). Services in Castilian are held daily.
Jardí de l’Hort de Can Falç
If you are looking for some green space and shade on a hot summer day, then head over to Jardí de l’Hort de Can Falç. It is a lovely park in the center of the city that is usually quiet and not visited by tourists. Bring a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in the shade, or some sun during the fall.
Visit Casa Bacardí
©Wikimedia/Superzerocool
Nestled amongst the cobblestone streets of old town Sitges is Casa Bacardí. Sitges is the birth town of Don Facundo Bacardí Massó, the founder of the world famous and most prized rum, Bacardí. During the 40 to 60-minute guided tour, you will learn about how he revolutionized the spirits industry in 1862 in Santiago de Cuba. Hear about the process of rum production, discover some of the science behind the mixology of the traditional Cuba Libre and classic Mojito, and find out why there is a bat on the Bacardí bottle logo.
Tours are available in Catalan, Spanish, and English.
Walk through Carrer de la Bassa-Rodona
Throughout the center is a maze of cobblestone streets where you will find everything from drag queen shows, shops, cafés, restaurants, nightclubs, and more. One of the most well-known streets in Sitges is Carrer de la Bassa-Rodona. It is the perfect place to stroll through, checking out some of the shops, stopping for a coffee in a café, and enjoying a drink on one of the many outdoor terraces while people watching.
Stroll along Passeig Maritim
©iStock/Jason Carr
The waterfront promenade is a great place to go for an early morning walk before the beach gets too busy. If you are an early riser, you can stroll along the promenade while watching the sunrise. Alternately, you can people watch, relax on one of numerous benches if you like, or enjoy a refreshing drink and lunch at one of the beach restaurants.
Go Queenz Dinner Show
Drag Queen shows are very popular in Sitges.
The city is known to have a large gay community and are accepting of all LGBTQ+ people. I went to a dinner show at Queenz Music Bar on Carrer Bonaire. The performances were great, and the food was delicious. It is a great evening out and supports the local community. If you want to go out after the show, head next door to Queenz Dance Club. Booking a reservation is recommended, many shows sell out.
These are just 10 things to do in Sitges; however, there are many more activities. If you have some additional time and can visit some places just outside the town then I recommend Ocio Aventoura Sitges, Sakya Tashi Ling (Buddhist Monastery), and Bodegas Güell (an architectural building and winery).
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What to do in Sitges? – Barcelona10
When vacationing in Barcelona, almost all tourists consider nearby cities for interesting trips. Sitges is often on the list of places to visit. It used to be a fishing village, but in a short period of time it transformed into a resort town for wealthy tourists. What to do in Sitges and why is it so interesting?
Let’s say that some people know that Sitges is the unspoken capital of gay tourism, but this does not mean that heterosexual companies and families do not belong here. You will not see any “debauchery” on the streets and in institutions here. Cast aside your prejudices, and then this ancient town will enchant you with its pristine beaches, seafront promenade and entertainment for every taste.
We have a separate article about the sights of Sitges, but now let’s talk about entertainment.
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Combine a cultural program with a trip to a bar
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Go in for sports and have a picnic by the sea
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enjoy seafood
Combine a cultural program with a visit to the bar
If you’re into cocktail magic at a house party or simply appreciate good spirits, Sitges has something to offer. It was in this Mediterranean resort that Facundo Bacardi, the creator of the elite rum brand Bacardi, was born. Despite the fact that he founded a company that brings billions of dollars in Cuba, they do not hold grudges against Bacardi in his hometown – a museum named after him was opened here, which is now run by one of the descendants of the alcoholic genius. Unfortunately, there are no Russian-speaking guides at the museum, but tours in English, Catalan and Spanish are at your service.
Buy a ticket to the Bacardi Museum and get a welcome cocktail HERE.
During a one-hour walk, you will be told how the idea of the rum business came to Bacardi and what the actual process of making the drink looks like. For greater clarity, rum is allowed to be tasted at each stage of fermentation. However, these few sips do not compare with the opportunity to prepare and taste a couple of cocktails at the end of the tour. Under the guidance of bartenders, according to a recipe used by the best establishments in Spain, you will mix ingredients, among which, without a doubt, Bacardi rum will be.
Go in for sports and have a picnic by the sea
If you are not a fan of “vegetable” holidays on the beach, then Sitges has all the conditions for active entertainment. Firstly, windsurfing centers operate here, for example, Escola Catalana de Surf. Secondly, you can rent a bike and, enjoying the Mediterranean breeze, ride along Maritim Boulevard.
The walking route from Sitges to neighboring Vilanova is very popular among Barcelona residents.
He walks along the rocks along the sea. Here is a huge natural park Garraf. You will not meet any signs on your way – the route is quite wild. However, it is almost impossible to get lost, the main thing is not to move away from the coast at a distance of more than 10 meters. The road is not close, so you should take care of food in advance. In addition, surrounded by such views, it is nice to stop for a picnic.
» READ ALSO — Trekking and Hiking in the vicinity of Barcelona
From an active holiday, you can also consider the option of a kayak tour from Barcelona itself, and in Sitges, snorkeling awaits you – diving in a mask. See the link for more details.
Enjoy seafood
It is impossible not to mention the main gastronomic advantage of Sitges: in almost all cafes and restaurants you will be offered the freshest seafood.
Locals, however, warn against ordering seafood on Monday. The fact is that on Sunday the catch is not brought, which means that there is a danger that on the first day of the week the dish will be prepared from frozen fish. Prices are not much different from Barcelona. The most budgetary, but high-quality places, as in the Catalan capital, are La Paradeta and Wok Palacio Oriente (Address: Carrer Santa Tecla, 8, Sitges).
Sitges hosts the most fun carnival in Spain and the Festa Maggio costume festival. So, if you succeed, try to hit them – it’s bright and provocative!
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Welcome to Sitges, you will definitely not stay here without entertainment and enjoy the atmosphere of measured Italian life. And how to get to this city from Barcelona, read this article.
» READ ALSO — What other resort cities to visit from Barcelona?
What to see in Sitges: the best in town
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What to see in Sitges for museum lovers
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Local Attractions
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What to see in Sitges for the holidays
Just 10-40 kilometers from the Catalan capital on the Mediterranean coast, small towns are scattered, which were once fishing villages, and today they host travelers from all over the world. However, only Sitges managed an unimaginable metamorphosis – from a village inhabited by sailors, it was transformed into a haven for bohemia. What to see in Sitges? Yes, there are a lot of interesting things!
The beginning of the process of transformation of the village into the city was laid 150 years ago, when many people from Sitges went to work across the ocean, in particular to Cuba, like, for example, the creator of Bacardi (the world famous brand) – Facundo Bacardi.
In the town, by the way, there is a museum of pirate drink rum.
Upon returning to their native land, the inhabitants of Catalonia erected luxurious mansions with pools and terraces on the seashore to demonstrate that they were doing well in their new place.
At present, the heirs from wealthy Catalan families live in those houses located dozens of meters from the sea promenade.
During the reign of Franco, Sitges further consolidated its reputation as a place for intellectuals and people with an above-average income: writers, painters and sculptors, tormented by the prohibitions that took place during the dictatorship, moved here from the capital.
Housing prices here are among the highest in the country, and the cost of food and leisure is similar to Barcelona, so you can not really hope for savings when you go to Sitges. What to see in Sitges? More on this later.
What to see in Sitges for museum lovers
And now people come to the city mainly for inspiration, beach leisure (they say that the sun’s rays in this city warm three hundred days a year) and delicious temptations.
A visit to museums here is, to be honest, not the most sought-after reason for coming, unless, of course, you do art professionally, or after a couple of days of rest you do not begin to languish from the beaches and heat.
The three main museums of the city among those to see in Sitges will be the most interesting for you:
- Museum of Romance called “Can Llopis”, which displays items of interior in the style of romanticism, rarity and collectible dolls from different countries of the world
- Cau Ferrat Museum, which houses the paintings of Pablo Picasso and El Greco (as well as the work of no less famous sculptors)
- Museum-Palace Marisel (it makes sense to go here because of the most beautiful views of the Mediterranean Sea and luxuriously decorated rooms with antique artifacts
By the way, you will save a lot if you buy a general ticket for visits to all 3 establishments. It is possible to buy it for 6.5€ instead of spending 3.
5€ three times.
Local Attractions
Sitges, Iglesia de San Bartolomé y San Tecla
- The main attraction of the town (a point of pride and an object used in postcards) is the church of St. Bartholomew and St. Thekla, built in the 17th century – this is also what to see in Sitges you will be most interested.
- The temple is located on a hill, from which a panoramic view of the coastal zone unfolds – which, by the way, makes this place the best place for photo shoots.
- In the evenings, the temple is illuminated, and a concert program with choreographic performances takes place on the square in front of it.
- Other must-see places in Sitges are the boulevard called Ribera, which stretches along the beach, where numerous artists sculpt the portraits of tourists.
- Maritim Boulevard is no less interesting (here you can ride on roller skates or rent a bicycle – you can rent it for half a day, by the way, for about ten euros).
Ribera Boulevard
To some extent atypical for a visit, however, still quite an interesting place – the main cemetery of the city of Cementari San Sebastian.
Catalans are buried differently than, say, in Russia – the dead are not buried. The bodies are placed in “boxes”, hired mainly for several decades. At the end of the rental period, the remains are cremated.
Wealthy families often leave such places behind them, decorating them with exquisite sculptures made by Catalan modernists. Admission is free, but it is better to find out the work schedule ahead of time.
What to see in Sitges for the holidays
Your experience of the town will be even richer if you go here at the time of the celebration of a local holiday. On 24.08 and 23.09 it is possible to see festive fireworks and “fire races” correfoc in the city – in accordance with the best foundations of the Catalan festivities.
And in the first month of summer the streets of the city are covered with carpets of flowers in honor of the religious festival of the flesh and blood of Christ. The exact days of this celebration are not known, since they pass every year in different ways – sixty days must be counted from Catholic Easter.
In addition, Sitges hosts an international film festival in October and one of the most joyful Spanish carnivals in February.
Do not forget to book hotels in the city in advance, because it is difficult to find a good room during rush hour. Check out a selection of the best hotels in the city on Booking.com.
- How to avoid queues at Barcelona attractions. Tickets for the Sagrada Familia and Park Güell skip 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.
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We advise you to take out travel insurance so that there are no unpleasant surprises while traveling to Barcelona.
