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Empuriabrava Costa Brava: Quick Essential Tourist Guide From Locals

Enjoy our quick guide to Empuriabrava, a popular tourist destination located within the municipality of Castello d’Empuries in Spain’s Alt Emporda.

Formerly built on a swamp, Empuriabrava now boasts of over 40 km of canals and a population that reaches up to 80,000 during the summer season.

In the northern part of the town, you can find the so-called Skydive Empuriabrava which offers a number of air sports that caters to all levels of skydiving enthusiasts.

Below we feature an expat interview with Pascal Messelier of Immo Plaza Spain who covers the Empuriabrava area.

Specifically, we asked Pascal on the advantages of choosing Empuriabrava as a place to live and the value for money that one can get if you decide to stay permanently in the area.

Pascal, thanks for helping our readers. I guess we should start off by asking what would you say would be the advantages to living in Empuriabrava compared to other Costa Brava towns?

Would the area not suit certain types of people, i.e. are there any possible downsides ?

This area, the “Bay of Roses” (called out in 2012 by National Geographic to be one of the most beautiful days of the world) only has advantages. Clean air (no industry), good reachability (car, highspeed train, flights from Girona and Perignan, 45-minute drive from Empuriabrava) and close to the French border. Only 1.5-hour drive from the first ski resort.

What proportion of the local population are Spanish?

Twenty percent, I think. You better check this through another person or website or give a call to the town hall itself: castellocat.

What are your favourite things to do in the area?

Everything! Culture, gastronomics (specialty of combining mountain and sea ingredients), sports, all kinds possible!

Can you give us some insider tips to the best bars or restaurants?

Of course. What kind of restaurants and bars? Restaurant Compartir in Cadaques for example. Typical Spanish bar is Rincun Cubano in Empuriabrava. I’ve got more if you want…

Are there many facilities such as doctors and dentists, shops etc?

Yes. There are enough and they all stay open on a yearly basis except from a few shops (typical summer clothing shops).

Are there smaller villages nearby that you might also recommend?

Figueres (Dali Museum); Rosas (biggest and most important fisherman’s village once passed the French border); Escala and Sant Marti D’Empuries with its ruins; and Escala known for its anchovies.

What are the nearest international schools and how good are they?

In Rosas and Figueres I think. Better look it up via Google. No idea. Do not have kids.

Coming onto buying property, what is the market like now in terms of prices going up, or down or staying the same?

Prices of properties are more or less very fluctuant. It depends on the area and the owners (most of them are foreigners). It also depends on whether they need to sell their property soon or they are not in a hurry. Other factors that can affect the price include whether they are coast properties or inland properties; whether they are old foreigners who are selling (mostly coastal properties) or new foreigners who are selling (mostly coastal properties although these are bought in the high times, before the crisis); and whether they are locals or Catalan people who are selling. Moreover, only people with a good network (like our company) know when these homeowners are selling. So it’s difficult to get the right idea as a buyer to get a sort of price by m2. Negotiable? Yes! That’s for sure.

Is this a good time to buy and are there any repossessions or very cheap properties still available to buy?

Depends what the client is looking for. Of course as every where there are bargains. But this area is not fully constructed as in Costa Blanca or Costa Del Sol . So the offer is much smaller and the demand always the same. Costa Brava has always been a more expensive area to buy. We do not have sun, sea, beer destinations here as in the south.

How much are the typical property prices in Empuriabrava for apartments, villas etc?

There is no value or rate possible to give you as Empuriabrava will be exiting 50 years next year. And there are properties that need renovation. Some are renovated and some newly built. You can get an idea if you google Fotocasa and check out the average price of properties for Empuriabrava.

Any tips and advice to people looking to buy in Empuriabrava or surrounding area?

Yes! Come to us. We work with a wide range of collaborators who are all connected to API (Asocacion Professional Immobiliaria). And we also work on command – Mandato De Busca.

As an official realtor I have found my home in the very versatile Catalonia, Costa Brava, also called “Wild Coast.” I am Flemish and I have 28 years of experience in this sector with my native language and I also speak French, English, Spanish and German. For me it is a pleasure to help you and “gladly” find good property for the right people. We especially help people who want to enjoy the Spanish sun and culture, and they therefore are looking for a home, whether it is for a vacation or to live.

The buying and selling of real estate are transactions in which I exercise due care. It is this that every penny is well spent. However, I don’t have a unilateral approach in the aspect of finance. A house is designed to enhance the enjoyment of one’s life and that’s what we go for!

Before establishing Immo Plaza Spain, I worked for eight years with three colleagues in this region, and I got to know the market well. My license can be found in the official records of the API (https://www.apibcn.com/) and AICAT (https://www.apigirona.com/cat/registre-agents-immobiliaris-catalunya.htm).

Pascal, thank you so much for taking the time to help our readers with your experiences in Spain. If you want to contact him, you can find his details below.

Avenida Europa, Edificio Bahia III 17487 Empuriabrava Costa Brava, Girona, Spain Tel. +34 872 222 420 Email: [email protected] Website: immoplazaspain.com

Here is an interesting tourist video on Empuriabrava.

Contact us to be featured – we want more expat interviews for our newsletter and website. You don’t need to be an estate agent, we want to hear from anyone who lives in Spain whether you are working or retired.

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Mark Eastwood

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Home: Costa Brava Lifestyle > Alt Empordà > Empuriabrava

Guide to Empuriabrava

With an extensive canal network for leisure boats, Empuriabrava is one of the largest residential marinas in the world.

Empuriabrava’s beach. Photo by  Cliché Online .

Empuriabrava is located in the bay of Roses and consists of a 22 kilometre network of canals making it one of the largest marinas in the world. The Costa Brava town (known as Ampuriabrava in Castilian) was built on swampland during the 1960s and ’70s and in the summer sees its population swell from less than 8,000 to 80,000.

More info on Empuriabrava

Tripadvisor

There are some hotels but holiday accommodation mainly consists of privately owned villas and apartments, many of which overlook the canal network. There are a number of campsites serving the town too.

While Empuriabrava may not be for everyone, it has a lot to offer for those seeking a relaxing beach holiday or an active outdoor adventure. The best reason for visiting Empuriabrava is to explore the canal network either on a boat tour or renting a boat and exploring for yourself. And while the town lacks the picture postcard looks of many Costa Brava towns, Empuriabrava does have a long, deep beach which can comfortably accommodate many visitors.

The town is located within easy reach of several other attractions, such as the Dali Museum in Figueres , the medieval town of Girona, and numerous beaches including those at Roses, Sant Pere Pescador and L’Escala .

For those who love outdoor activities, Empuriabrava has plenty to offer. The town is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, with a range of activities available including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and sailing. There are also plenty of opportunities for hiking and cycling, with many scenic routes available.

Although 20th century development Empuriabrava has no real history to speak of, in the 11th century the nearby Castelló d’Empúries became capital of what today is the Empordà. In the early part of the 14th century the town underwent expansion until, in 1385, it came under Aragon crown.

Although Empuriabrava may lack the charm of the old Costa Brava fishing villages found along the coast, it does at least boast 1.6 kilometres of sand beach. The beach is bounded by the entrance to the marina in the north and the mouth of the river Muga in the south and can be accessed from the promenade.

The beach is wide and spacious, with plenty of room for visitors to spread out and relax. The beach is also equipped with a range of facilities, including showers, changing rooms, and sun loungers. During the summer months, the beach can get busy, but it’s still possible to find a quiet spot to soak up the sun.

But that’s not the only beach available to anyone staying in Empuriabrava as there are a couple of beaches within protected areas surrounded by nature. North of the marina entrance is Platja de la Rubina , another long sandy beach backed by dunes that extends up to the Santa Margarita, a smaller scale version of Empuriabrava. The beach is part of the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park and it remains completely undeveloped with no facilities. Dogs and kitesurfing are allowed on the area closest to Santa Margarida but you do need to keep to the paths as the dunes the ecosystems they support are protected.

Another popular beach in Empuriabrava is Platja de Can Comes . It’s nearly 4 kilometres of sand that that runs from the mouth of the river Muga down to the Fluvià and completely undeveloped without any facilities. The area behind the beach is the protected Aiguamolls d’Empordà nature reserve and some species nest in the dunes. You should avoid these areas.

Where to stay

Empuriabrava offers a large selection of accommodation options for visitors, most of which is privately owned apartments and houses within the marina’s large network of canals. There are a number of hotels, aparthotels and hostals, but if you’re looking for more variety then Roses is probably a better choice – see our page on hotels in Empuriabrava . The town is also home to a number of campsites for those who prefer to stay closer to nature.

Some of the popular hotels in Empuriabrava include the 4-star Port Salins Hotel (Avinguda Fages de Climent, 10-15), 3-star Hotel Portofino (Carrer Portofino, 1) and Ampuria Inn Hotel (Avinguda Tramuntana). These hotels offer a range of facilities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and bars. The first two are close to the beach with Ampuria Inn being ideally situated for Skydive Empuriabrava.

For those who prefer self-catering accommodation, there are plenty of apartments and rental villas available in Empuriabrava. Some of the popular options include Holiday Home Empuriabrava with Pool, Apartament Marina 1605, and Apartment Port Grec. These accommodations offer a range of amenities, including kitchenettes, living areas, and private balconies or terraces.

Empuriabrava also has several campsites on the edge of town with facilities that include swimming pools, restaurants, sports facilities, and children’s entertainment. Depending on which you choose you may have direct access to the beach too.

Overall, there are plenty of accommodation options available in Empuriabrava to suit all tastes and budgets. Whether visitors prefer the luxury of a hotel, the flexibility of a rental property, or the simplicity of a camping trip, there is something for everyone here.

Eating in and eating out

Empuriabrava has the usual assortment of restaurants serving Catalan and international cuisine aimed at the tourist market. Many restaurants are canal side but given that the town dates back just a few decades you should head for Castelló d’Empúries if you are looking for something more authentic and Roses also offers a range of excellent restaurants. As in all Spanish towns, look out for the menú del día , two or three courses generally for an exceptionally good price and often inclusive of drinks.

When it comes to self-catering, Empuriabrava has several supermarkets and grocery stores where visitors can stock up on provisions. Some of the popular options in the town include Esclat, Spar and Lidl and you’ll find Mercadona and Carrefour supermarkets on the road towards Roses.

There is also a weekly market on Passeig marítim every Friday morning between 8:30 am and 1:30 pm. However, for more specialized items or a wider selection of products, it may be necessary to visit larger nearby towns such as Figueres or Roses.

What to see and do

Empuriabrava offers a range of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, beyond its beautiful beaches. The town is home to one of the three largest skydiving centres in the world. Founded in 1985, more than a million jumps have taken place at Skydive Empuriabrava , and so if you have ever wanted to try your hand at parachuting then this is your chance.

With the network of canals, boats are everywhere and probably the best reason to stay in Empuriabrava. Sailing is in the town’s DNA but visitors can enjoy a range of other water sports, including windsurfing, paddle boarding, and jet skiing.

Empuriabrava marina

Empuriabrava provides an impressive 5,000 moorings and is the largest residential marina in Europe. It is also one of the biggest residential marinas in the world.

The town lies in a privileged position next to the protected marshland of Aiguamolls d’Empordà in the wide open Gulf of Roses. It’s also close to Girona-Costa Brava airport and to Figueres. Barcelona is a couple of hours away by car.

Empuriabrava marina. Photo by levirus .

Beyond the town of Roses is the peninsula of Cap de Creus. It’s an area of outstanding natural beauty that has been protected since 1998 and where construction is completely banned. With small, rocky coves it makes an ideal destination for a day’s sailing.

The idea to build a residential marina an area of marshland near Castelló d’Empúries dates back to the mid 1960s, with construction commencing a few years later. The original project was completed in 1975.

Within an area of eight square kilometres Empuriabrava now has a total of 23 kilometres of navigable waterways. While most moorings are privately owned, some 700 are available for visiting boats of up to 26 metres in length.

The marina is easily seen from a distance with high rise buildings standing out from afar. One of these is the control tower, which is seven wide and nearly 50 metres high. It can be seen from wherever you are in the bay and is illuminated at night.

As you’d expect from Europe’s largest residential marina, Empuriabrava port is equipped with up to date facilities and modern equipment. To support the huge number of boats there are no less than 15 marine service companies catering for all your nautical needs.

There are also boats available to rent, including small vessels not requiring a licence. In these boats you can explore the many kilometres of canal in Empuriabrava marina.

The port area also has more than 50 restaurants and as you’d expect in a town with a summer population of 80,000 there are taxis, banks, car hire, doctors, hairdressers, cleaners and vets. There are also estate agents for buying property in Empuriabrava and for holiday rentals.

Empuriabrava marina also hosts the biggest second-hand boat market in Spain. Every year at Easter some 400 pre-owned boats are on sale at the market.

Empuriabrava is ideally located to sail to the nearby Cap de Creus. The southern side of the peninsula is located just the other side of Roses and around 3 nautical miles way but Llançà, on the far side of the peninsula, is around 20 nautical miles.

Cap de Creus is stark but beautiful and largely unspoilt. You’ll find there the picturesque towns of Cadaqués and Port de la Selva. In between are dozens of small coves, many of which are difficult to access by land.

The dark rock typically has bubbles within it, something that can be seen in many works by the surrealist Salvador Dalí. He was born in Figueres, where you can visit the museum dedicated to him, but had a house in Portlligat, near Cadaqués. Today his old house is also a museum and decorated with some typical Dalí flourishes.

For those interested in nature, the nearby natural park of Aiguamolls d’Empordà is a must-visit. This protected area covers over 4,000 hectares of wetlands and is home to a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for birdwatching with more than 300 species of wildlife.

Those looking for a little history should head for nearby Castello d’Empúries, which today is rather eclipsed by Empuriabrava in scale. Figueres is 20 minutes by car and Girona can easily be done as a day trip, while the Cap de Creus and towns such as Cadaqués should make a welcome change from the marina.

Visitors can also enjoy biking along numerous bike trails and routes, ranging from coastal paths to inland countryside routes. The town’s weekly market is another attraction, where visitors can browse local goods and handicrafts.

Finally, the town offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from. Overall, Empuriabrava has something to offer anyone from thrill seekers to those looking for a more relaxed holiday experience.

How to get to Empuriabrava

Getting to Empuriabrava is relatively straightforward, and there are several options for travellers. By car, the town can be accessed via the AP-7 motorway from the French border, which takes approximately 40 minutes. From Barcelona, the drive is just under 2 hours via the same motorway. There are also several scenic coastal routes that offer a slower, but more picturesque drive.

For those using public transport, the nearest airports to Empuriabrava are Barcelona-El Prat and Girona-Costa Brava . From Barcelona, visitors can take a direct bus from the airport to Figueres, which takes around 2 hours, and then transfer to a local bus or taxi to reach Empuriabrava. Alternatively, visitors can take a train from Barcelona to Figueres and then take a bus or taxi to Empuriabrava.

Girona-Costa Brava airport is 45 minutes away, while Figueres is 20 minutes in the car. Buses to Figueres run about once per hour, and with the train service from Barcelona makes a fairly painless trip from the Catalan capital. There are also options for car hire and taxi services from both airports.

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Plan Your Trip to Empuriabrava: Best of Empuriabrava Tourism

Essential Empuriabrava

Empuriabrava Is Great For

Eat & drink

• Xon's Platja Hotel
• Camping Rubina Resort
• Port Salins Hotel
• Apartamentos Empuriabrava Marina
• Ampuria Inn Hotel
• Restaurante Can Felix
• Enjoy It Restaurant i Bar
• Pizzeria El Cau de la Iguana
• Essencia Restaurant
• Minigolf Carmanso
• Windoor Real Fly
• Passarel·la
• Platja de Can Comes
• Karting Empuriabrava
• Helicopter Ride - Costa Brava
• Jet ski ride and excursion Cap de Creus - Cadaques - Medes Islands ....
• Private Electric Boat in Girona
• Private tour through the canals of Empuriabrava
• Skydive - Costa Brava

Empuriabrava

• 1 Understand
• 2.3 By train
• 2.4 By plane
• 2.5 By boat
• 3 Get around
• 5.2 Cycling
• 5.3 Karting
• 7.2 Mid-range
• 7.3 Splurge

Empuriabrava ( Ampuriabrava in Spanish) is a tourist area of 42.258222 3.074669 1 Castelló d'Empúries town approximately 120 km northeast of Barcelona on the coast of Girona in Catalonia . The town is home to one of the world's largest man-made marinas with channels cutting through the whole northern part of the urban area.

Understand [ edit ]

The town consists mostly of tourist accommodations creating great seasonal changes with an estimated population of 80,000 in the summer dropping to just a few thousands in winter.

• Tourist information [dead link]

Get in [ edit ]

By car [ edit ]

From Europe : Crossing the French border by motorway AP-7 or state road N-II. The exit of the motorway is the nº 3. State road C-260, direction Figueres. The road to Empuriabrava is the C-260, taking the Figueres-Roses exit, direction Roses.

From Barcelona or Girona : By motorway AP-7 or state road N-II. The exit of the motorway is the nº 4. State road C-260, direction France. The road to Empuriabrava is the C-260, taking the Figueres-Roses exit, direction Roses.

From the Pyrenees : State road N-260, direction Figueres. After Navata, turn right, the road C-26 direction Castelló d'Empúries. Then, the state road N-II direction France. The road to Empuriabrava is the C-260, taking the Figueres-Roses exit, direction Roses.

By bus [ edit ]

Buses from Barcelona, and Girona.

By train [ edit ]

The nearest train station (RENFE) is in Figueres, 15 km from Empuriabrava. From there, bus towards Castelló d'Empúries and Empuriabrava.

AVE and TGV trains arrive at the Figueres-Vilafant railway station. From there, there are buses back to the bus station in Figueres, and from the Bus Station, there are buses to Castelló d'Empúries and Empuriabrava.

By plane [ edit ]

• Girona Airport : The nearest airport is Girona-Costa Brava, an important base for Ryanair. During the summer season, a bus to the town is available.
• The major international airport at Barcelona-El Prat is 160 km to the south, around two hours by car. There is a bus from Barcelona Airport to Figueres, and then take a second bus to Empuriabrava.

By boat [ edit ]

Empuriabrava is a huge marina with many private docking places. There is a public port also.

• 42.2478 3.127946 1 Marina D’Empuriabrava , Sector Club Nàutic Edf. Capitania s/n , ☏ +34 972 451 239 , [email protected] . ( updated Sep 2023 )

Get around [ edit ]

See [ edit ], do [ edit ].

Since Empuriabrava is a town mainly consisting of tourism, it is not hard finding something interesting to do. Sailing around the marina in a rented boat is one of the most popular things to do. Also the beach is a great place to spend your day. The sandy beach is about 90 m wide, and the water is at great temperatures during the summer. However, it is recommended that you use the beach primarily in the morning before noon as the sun reaches very powerful levels around noon and the heat builds up until late afternoon.

• Skydive Empuriabrava is based at the airfield north side of town.

Hiking [ edit ]

There are many routes around the city. The GR 92 long-distance walking route crosses near thecity.

Cycling [ edit ]

The Pirinexus and the EuroVelo EV8 long distance bike routes cross Castello d'Empuries connected to Empuriabrava by route CN-M.

Karting [ edit ]

• 42.26395 3.11114 2 Karting Cross Empuriabrava , ☏ +34 722 16 97 70 . ( updated Oct 2023 )
• 42.26029 3.11202 3 Karting Empuriabrava , ☏ +34972 19 98 91 . ( updated Oct 2023 )

Buy [ edit ]

Eat [ edit ], budget [ edit ], mid-range [ edit ], splurge [ edit ].

• 42.266607 3.127025 1 La llar , C-260 road, km40,5 , ☏ +34 972 25 53 68 . 1 Michelin star .  

Drink [ edit ]

There is a great number of cafés and restaurants located all over the city, especially concentrated around the main shopping boulevard Carrer Port Salins and Carrer Salins 1 Linea at the beachside.

Sleep [ edit ]

Connect [ edit ].

As of Jan 2024, Empuriabrava and its approach highways have 5G from all Spanish carriers.

Go next [ edit ]

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Empuriabrava beach.

Beaches and coves | Beaches and coves Empuriabrava

This is the main beach of Empuriabrava and therefore has a high occupancy rate. It comprises the area between the mouth of the river Muga and the port of Empuriabrava. It is also one of the largest in the area, as it is almost 1.5 kilometres long. It is an urban beach delimited by the Promenade, which leads to all the restaurant services offered in Empuriabrava.

It has several access ramps and walkways, adapted showers and toilets, and even a bathing assistance service for disabled persons. It is an ideal place to spend the day with the children and the family.

It has obtained several quality distinctions: the Q for Tourist Quality, Environmental Quality, ISO 14001 and Blue Flag.

Find the perfect trip and start planning your dream vacation today!

10 Things to See and Do in Empuriabrava

Nestled along the picturesque coast of northeastern Spain, Empuriabrava, often referred to as the “Spanish Venice,” is a charming place that promises an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. This hidden gem has a unique landscape of winding canals, stunning beaches, and a vibrant local culture, making it a must-visit destination for those in search of an authentic Spanish coastal getaway. Join us as we uncover the enchanting array of things to see and do in Empuriabrava, where every corner reveals a new adventure waiting to be explored.

1. Get a free city map at the tourist Office

Empuriabrava, has a Tourist Information Office to assist visitors with their travel needs. Please note that hours of operation, contact details, and services offered by tourist offices can change, so I recommend checking their current status and operating hours online or contacting them directly for the most up-to-date information before your visit.

Location: Carrer de Sant Mori, 8

2. Enjoy a day at the beach

Spend a blissful day at Empuriabrava’s sun-kissed beaches, where you can lounge on the golden sands, swim in the refreshing Mediterranean waters, try water sports like windsurfing or paddleboarding, and relish delicious seaside cuisine at beachside cafes for a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

3. Walk the Maritime Promenade (Passeig Maritim)

Take a leisurely stroll along Empuriabrava’s maritime promenade, where you’ll be enchanted by picturesque views of boats, charming waterfront restaurants, and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea, making it the ideal setting for a serene and scenic seaside walk.

4. Learn how to windsurf

Apart from windsurfing and kitesurfing, you can also enjoy activities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing.

5. Make a canal cruise

Explore the town’s unique canal system on a boat tour. You can rent a small boat or join guided tours to navigate the picturesque canals.

6. Go Skydiving

Experience the thrill of skydiving with Skydive Empuriabrava , one of the world’s largest skydiving centers. Enjoy stunning aerial views as you jump over the scenic landscape.

7. Walk beside La Muga

Going for a walk along the river La Muga, heading in the direction of Castelló d’Empúries, is a truly peaceful and beautiful experience. The calm waters of the river reflect the greenery around, creating a tranquil atmosphere where you can relax and enjoy nature.This walk is a wonderful way to escape the noise and stress of daily life and appreciate the natural beauty that Empuriabrava has to offer.

8. Visit a Natural Parc

When you visit Empuriabrava, make sure to explore the natural parks that grace the region, namely “La Rubina” and “El Cortalet.” These two reserves are nature lovers’ havens, each offering a unique charm.

“La Rubina” Natural Park is a coastal sanctuary where you can wander through stunning dunes, find tranquil beaches, and watch diverse bird species in their natural habitat. It’s a fantastic place for birdwatching and enjoying the calming presence of the Mediterranean Sea.

“El Cortalet” Natural Park, on the other hand, is an equally enchanting destination known for its rich marshland ecosystem. Here, you can observe a wide array of birdlife and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings. Whether you’re an avid birder or simply seeking a peaceful escape in nature, El Cortalet won’t disappoint.

Both of these natural parks provide opportunities for hiking, photography, and appreciating the local flora and fauna. Don’t miss the chance to connect with Empuriabrava’s pristine natural beauty in these wonderful conservation areas.

9. Go shopping

Empuriabrava offers a delightful shopping experience with its local market for fresh produce and crafts, boutique stores around the marina for fashion and accessories, supermarkets for everyday needs, and charming souvenir shops where you can find unique mementos of your visit. While it’s a small town, nearby Roses and Figueres provide shopping centers for a more extensive retail selection. Whether you’re in search of local treasures or daily essentials, you’ll find a variety of shopping options to explore in this coastal gem.

10. Rent a boat

Renting a boat in Empuriabrava is an excellent way to explore the stunning canals and coastline of this charming seaside town. Numerous boat rental services are available, allowing you to choose from a range of watercraft, from small motorboats to luxurious yachts. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a first-time boater, there are options for all skill levels, and many rental companies offer guided tours if you prefer to sit back and relax. With the Mediterranean Sea at your doorstep and a picturesque network of canals to navigate, renting a boat in Empuriabrava promises a memorable and scenic adventure on the water.

Spend the night in Empuriabrava

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FAQ’s

Yes, Empuriabrava is generally considered a safe destination for tourists. It has a low crime rate, and the local authorities take measures to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. However, as with any travel destination, it’s advisable to take standard safety precautions, such as safeguarding your belongings and following local guidelines.

The best time to visit Empuriabrava for pleasant weather is during the late spring (May to June) and early autumn (September to October) when temperatures are mild, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities. The peak summer months can be hot and crowded.

Absolutely! Empuriabrava is renowned for its water sports. You can enjoy activities like windsurfing, kitesurfing, sailing, and kayaking. With its intricate canal system, it’s also an excellent place for boating and leisurely cruises.

While Empuriabrava is primarily known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, you can explore the nearby medieval town of Castelló d’Empúries, which is rich in history and features well-preserved architecture, including a stunning Gothic cathedral.

Empuriabrava offers a diverse range of dining options, including seafood restaurants, tapas bars, and international cuisine. You’ll find numerous eateries along the canals and the beachfront, making it easy to savor fresh Mediterranean flavors or explore other culinary delights during your stay.

Read more articles on my Empuriabrava page

This article may contain affiliate links. This means that we receive a small commission when you book something via these links. Of course, this does not cost you anything extra. Did our tips help you? We would love it if you book your trip via the links in the article above. Thank you so much.

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Beach: Empúriabrava

TYPE OF BEACH

Composition: sand

Type of sand: golden

Swimming conditions: strong waves, windy

CHARACTERISTICS

Length: 1.300 m

Width: 90 m

Occupancy rate: high

Degree of urban development: urban

ACCESSES AND SECURITY

Marina: puerto deportivo de empuriabrava

Distance to beach: 0 km.

Means of access: On foot easy,Car,Boat

Nearest motorway: ctra. figueras - roses

Sunshade rental, sun lounger rental, water craft rental, toilets, yacht club, showers, footwash, tourist office, litter bin, cleaning service, telephone, sports area, children's play area

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12 Mar 15 Jun

Spring agenda, weekly market empuriabrava, caminada pel rec comtal: de castelló d’empúries a vilanova de la muga, visita guiada – castelló d’empúries capital comtal, cicle de cures tradicionals, visita guiada: les pedres ens parlen, visita guiada – enfarina’t, descobreix l’ecomuseu farinera, castelló d’empúries weekly market, dance in castelló d’empúries, visita guiada “tastapatrimoni: itinerari guiat amb maridatge”, fira de brocanters, what to visit and what to do.

Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park

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Castelló d'Empúries, Capital Medieval de l'Empordà

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If you visit Castelló d’Empúries

La Vila Comtal conserva tots els vestigis de la seva capitalitat medieval: carrers estrets, les muralles, el Call Jueu o la magnífica Basílica de Santa Maria, l’interior de la qual conté grans tresors, com el retaule d’alabastre de la Verge de la Candelera (s.XV), així com les piques baptismals (s.XIV) i l’orgue del segle XIX.

If you visit Empuriabrava

Situada al litoral de la Badia de Roses i assentada al cor del Parc Natural dels Aiguamolls de l'Empordà, Empuriabrava és una de les marines més belles del món. Genuïna pel seu disseny i única a Europa, compta amb més de 25 km. de canals navegables, convertint-se en el somni de qualsevol amant de la mar i dels esports nàutics.

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Mar, canals, natura i història. Empuriabrava, Aiguamolls & Castelló d'Empúries. Visita la nostra web:

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Holiday information, facts, photos and video about empuriabrava, towns and areas, reviews for empuriabrava, featured holiday homes in alt empordà, highlights of empuriabrava, things to do while you are here, empuriabrava review, costa brava reviews.

Top Things to Do in Empuriabrava, Spain - Empuriabrava Must-See Attractions

Things to do in empuriabrava, tours in and around empuriabrava.

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• Platja de Can Comes
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Empuriabrava

The municipality of Castelló d’Empúries has, with almost 7 km of beaches, a wide coastal strip of high natural interest, partly included in the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park and of high tourist interest, since it is increased in number of visitors during the summer months.

There are three beaches:

The beach of Can Comes, which is part of the natural reserve of the Aiguamolls de l’Empordà Natural Park.

The beach of Empuriabrava, which has all the necessary services to meet the influx of tourists.

The beach of Rubina, known by the name of the wild beach. Beach suitable for bathing with dogs.

The beach of Empuriabrava has all the health, safety and leisure services necessary to guarantee the satisfactory stay of its users, thanks to which it has obtained the Blue Flag, distinctive that recognizes the adaptation of the beach to certain criteria of legality, accessibility, sanitation, cleaning and security, which are reviewed periodically. With this distinction of an international nature and granted by the ADEAC-FEE foundation, the aim is to achieve sustainable development with respect to tourism and correct environmental management of the municipality’s coastline.

As for the services of the beach, there are showers, public toilets, adapted toilets, parking and access for the disabled, bicycle parking, restaurants, public transport, telephones, selective collection, playgrounds, sports courts, bicycle rental, points of relief with amphibious chair and ambulance, two water sampling points and a free use channel.

The rescue and rescue service of the Red Cross that is offered is in operation during the months of the bathing season, from July 1 to August 31, 2011. It has four watchtowers, three on the beach of Empuriabrava and One on the beach of La Rubina, and staff to cover the service from 11am to 7pm.

With 23 km of navigable channels, the Marina of Empuriabrava is considered the largest residential marina in Europe. The location and the climatology also contribute, among others, to being a reference in the practice of skydiving and water sports.

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World Bank suspends Tanzania tourism funding after claims of killings and evictions

Plan to expand Ruaha national park has been beset by allegations of abuse, leading bank to withhold final $50m of $150m budget

The World Bank has suspended financing intended to develop tourism in southern Tanzania after allegations of killings, rape and forced evictions.

The bank began investigating last year after being accused of enabling abuses around Ruaha national park, which was due to double in size as part of a World Bank-supported programme .

“The World Bank is deeply concerned about the allegations of abuse and injustice related to the Resilient Natural Resources Management for Tourism and Growth (Regrow) project in Tanzania,” said a World Bank spokesperson.

“We have recently received information that suggests breaches of our policies in the implementation of the Regrow project. We have therefore decided to suspend further disbursement of funds with immediate effect.”

Tanzania was due to receive a further $50m, having already received $100m of the funding. Developments include building roads, viewing areas and visitor centres, and investing in wildlife monitoring and increased security.

The Guardian reported in September 2023 that the US-based thinktank the Oakland Institute had documented a range of abuses by Tanzanian rangers against villagers accused of encroaching on the national park, including the killing of cattle herders and fishers, the confiscation of livestock and the rape of women.

The Oakland Institute welcomed the “long overdue” decision, which came a year after the World Bank was first informed of potential violations of its own policies on safeguarding in April 2023.

Anuradha Mittal, the thinktank’s executive director, said: “It sends a resounding message to the Tanzanian government that there are consequences for its rampant rights abuses taking place across the country to boost tourism. The days of impunity are finally coming to an end.”

The Oakland Institute said that despite the World Bank announcing an investigation, the Tanzanian government moved forward in October with plans to redraw the boundaries of the national park, which would result in 21,000 people facing eviction.

The institute said their research shows other abuses have also continued, including the killing of a 21-year-old cattle herder in October and seizure and sale of thousands of cattle this year.

“The government’s plan to expand the park cannot go forward against the will of local communities, who will lose everything from such an expansion,” said Mittal. “In addition to preventing forced evictions, the bank must focus on how to remedy the harms caused to the villagers who have lost loved ones to ranger violence or had their lives devastated by livelihood restrictions.”

The Tanzanian government had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication.

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Sandakan needs a tourist information centre, says Elopura assemblyman

• Sabah & Sarawak

Wednesday, 24 Apr 2024

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KOTA KINABALU: An assemblyman says he's found himself stepping into the shoes of a tourist guide in Sandakan due to the absence of a tourist information centre to guide visitors to places of interest in the district.

Calvin Chong Ket Kiun (Warisan-Elopura) said the first thing tourists would do upon touching down in Sandakan was to find other tourist destinations apart from the conventional ones.

"I have been approached at the airport, and some have asked me to take them around. I suddenly became a tourist guide. It is fine, but to have an information centre would be helpful," he said during the question-and-answer session at the State Assembly sitting here Wednesday (April 24).

He also highlighted that the existing tourism packages did not have spillover effects on locals in the district.

"Foreign tourists usually opt for packages for convenience. They do not try out restaurants in town or do any activities outside their packages. So how does this benefit locals in Sandakan?" he asked.

Chong also questioned the Tourism, Culture and Environment Ministry about its effort to promote tourism in Sandakan. Its minister, Datuk Christina Liew, replied that in the last three years, the ministry had implemented three tourism development projects costing about RM500,000, while the Tourism, Arts, and Culture Ministry had spent another RM1.89mil on its 10 projects in the district.

"These allocations are channelled towards physical infrastructures to enhance security, comfort and functionality of these basic tourism facilities for the benefit of our tourists," she said.

She added that issues pertaining to the information centre were under the jurisdiction of the district officers or municipal council presidents, who also act as the tourism sector heads in their respective areas.

"If you have any input from tourism players on how to better the tourism industry in your area, please reach out to the tourism sector heads so your views can be channelled to us," she said.

Tags / Keywords: Tourist Information Centre , Sandakan , Calvin Chong Ket Kiun ,

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Platja d’Empuriabrava

Castelló d'Empúries, Alt Empordà

Photographer Jordi Cassú

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This beach is right in front of the residential marina of Empuriabrava and its navigable waterways. It is therefore not surprising that there are all types of facilities available, including a children’s playground, sports courts, access for people with reduced mobility, amphibious chairs for the disabled and bars and restaurants. A wide promenade, with plenty of parking space, separates the beach from the buildings of Empuriabrava. It has been awarded the blue flag and the ‘Q’ for tourist quality, in addition to achieving European EMAS and ISO 14001 certifications. Located between the entry to the residential marina and the mouth of the Muga river, it occupies an area of 1,300 metres. Once in Empuriabrava, practically all roads lead to the beach.

• Type of sand Fine sand
• Access By car, on foot and by bus
• Classification Couples, Urbanites, Families, Hikers
• Width (m) 100
• Length (m) 1450
• Environment Urban

Empuriabrava Tourist Information Office

Carrer de Fabra Pompeu, s/n, 17487 Empuriabrava, Espanya

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Amsterdam’s Latest Effort to Fight Excessive Tourism: No New Hotels

The city wants no more than 20 million hotel stays annually. The measure is one of multiple efforts to control the flow of visitors.

By Claire Moses

Amsterdam has been searching for any way to rein in the number of tourists that visit the city every year.

In March of last year, the city launched an ad campaign specifically targeted at British men between 18 and 35, urging them to “stay away.”

In July, the Dutch capital announced it would bar cruise ships from docking in the city center .

The city has also long tried to control the crowds in its red-light district, where rowdy groups of tourists often cause disruptions to local residents. It has added stricter rules about smoking marijuana . It has banned new tourist shops. And still, the people keep coming.

Now, the city — which is as well known for its canals and 17th century art as for its legal sex industry and easy access to marijuana — has taken one more step to further restrict the explosive growth of tourists: It is banning hotels from being built.

“Amsterdam is saying ‘no’ to new hotels,” the City Council said in a statement. “We want to make and keep the city livable for residents and visitors,” it added.

Amsterdam, which added that it was seeking to keep hotel stays by tourists to under 20 million per year, saw its highest number of visitors before the pandemic in 2019, when there were 25.2 million hotel stays, according to the city’s data.

Last year, that number was exceeded by tourists staying over in Amsterdam, not including stays in short-term rentals like Airbnbs and cruise ships. And the measure also does not take into account daily visitors who do not stay the night.

The ban on new hotels, while sending a clear message about the city’s aim to reduce the number of visitors, is also largely symbolic. The city’s policy on hotel construction was already strict, and there had been only three proposals since 2017 that met Amsterdam’s requirements, according to the city. New hotels that had been approved or were in development — 26 in total — would be allowed to proceed for now.

Under the new rules, a new hotel can only open if another one closes. It also isn’t allowed to add more rooms than were available, according to the city.

“The effect won’t be very big,” said Ko Koens, a professor of new urban tourism at Inholland University in Rotterdam, the Netherlands. He also said that in the long run, the capping of hotels could make them more expensive to stay at.

While this ban alone would not make a huge dent in the number of visitors to the city, Mr. Koens said, taken together with other initiatives it could make Amsterdam a less appealing place to visit. But, he said, “For now, visitors don’t seem to mind.”

In total, Amsterdam has nearly 42,000 hotel rooms that can accommodate more than 92,000 people, according to Statistics Netherlands, a governmental institution that compiles data about the country. (In total, the Netherlands has more than 150,000 hotel rooms.)

Amsterdam’s initiatives to rein in tourism have been largely focused on its crowded city center. But as long as Amsterdam’s airport, Schiphol, continues to be a major European hub, it won’t be easy to keep visitors away from the city.

“There are no simple solutions,” Mr. Koens said. “It’s super complex.”

Amsterdam also announced this week it would start cutting the number of river cruises allowed to dock in its waters. In 2023, that number was 2,125. In 2028, the city wants it to be halved, with no more than 1,150. The city predicts that effort could reduce the number of visitors that come into town by 271,000. This proposal, the city said, is to improve the quality of life for residents and to reduce emissions and crowds.

“The balance in the city needs to improve,” Hester van Buren, a deputy mayor who focuses on the city’s port, said in a statement.

Amsterdam isn’t the only major European destination that has been struggling to get a grip on the growing number of tourists. Venice announced it would charge day-tripping visitors 5 euros ($5.33) to enter the iconic streets of its city center on weekends and some holidays from April 25 through mid-July, its busiest season.

Amsterdam, currently in a busy touristic time because of its famous blooming tulips, has not announced a similar measure, but it is likely there will be more efforts and experiments designed to limit visitors — like the hotel ban.

“Without such a stop, Amsterdam’s center would become one big hotel,” Mr. Koens said. “You don’t want that either.”

Claire Moses is a Times reporter in London, focused on coverage of breaking and trending news. More about Claire Moses