Malgrat de Mar vacation packages

Best things to do in Malgrat de Mar

Located on the Costa Brava, Malgrat de Mar offers a perfect mix of beach fun, child-friendly attractions, cultural spots, and outdoor adventures, making vacations in Malgrat de Mar enjoyable for the whole family.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Torre del Castell: This watchtower is the sole remnant of a 14th-century castle that once stood here. Nowadays, the primary reason to visit is to enjoy the stunning views over the rooftops of Malgrat.

Parks and gardens

• El Castell Park: From this beautiful park, you can see the town, the Mediterranean coast, and the lush countryside in all their glory. It features play areas and pathways lined with botanical gardens.

• Francesc Macià Park: Ideal for kids to run around, this expansive park boasts shaded green spaces perfect for picnics, unique sculptures, and creative play areas, making it especially popular with families.

Historical monuments

• Sant Nicolau Church: Located in the old town, this 18th-century church is a true gem of neoclassical architecture and has a wonderfully atmospheric interior. It's often referred to as the Cathedral of the Coast.

Day trips in the area

• Barcelona: Just a short train ride away, Barcelona offers endless iconic attractions, from the breathtaking Sagrada Família to the bustling Las Ramblas and historic Gothic Quarter.

• Tossa de Mar: About 40 minutes away, this coastal town features a charming medieval old town complete with a castle overlooking an inviting beach.

• Montserrat: The stunning mountain range and the world-famous Montserrat Monastery nestled here make for an unforgettable day trip. It's a 1.5-hour drive from Malgrat but well worth it.

Family activities in Malgrat de Mar

Malgrat de Mar is a big hit with families! The town itself offers plenty of activities for kids of all ages, and there are more attractions just outside to ensure that the whole family enjoys their vacation.

• Beaches: The slightly gritty sandy shores and calm, shallow waters at Malgrat de Mar’s Blue Flag beach are ideal for family fun. Playgrounds keep the little ones happy, while older kids can enjoy beach sports.

• Water Parks: Take the family to Water World in nearby Lloret de Mar, which is filled with exciting slides, lazy rivers, pools, and attractions for toddlers.

• Other Activities: Kids will love riding the tourist train, an entertaining way to explore the town. Another fun activity for children is a boat trip, with boats running up and down the coast, stopping at various resorts where you can hop on and off.

• Hire a bike: Renting bikes is a fun way for the entire family to explore Malgrat and neighboring towns. Well-maintained promenades with designated bike lanes make cycling a relaxing activity for everyone.

• Water sports: Older kids might want to try water sports like paddleboarding, jet skiing, or kayaking off Malgrat's main beach. Equipment rentals and lessons are available, making it easy for even the youngest family members to start.

Free things to do in Malgrat de Mar

Vacationing in Malgrat de Mar doesn't have to break the bank. Enjoy free and inexpensive activities to save plenty of money.

• Local markets: Stroll through Malgrat’s historic streets to discover its charming architecture, colorful buildings, and local markets.

• Annual festivals: There's no better time to visit Malgrat de Mar than during the Festa Major in August. During the festival, the town comes alive with free concerts, parades, and fireworks.

• Promenade strolls: Walking along the promenade with views of the sea is a delightful, free way to spend a few hours. Malgrat’s 3km seafront promenade, featuring shops, bars, and pavement cafés, connects to neighboring Santa Susanna’s attractive boulevard.

• Birdwatching: Bird enthusiasts will find tranquility at the Tordera river delta wetland area near Malgrat de Mar, where lookouts can be used free of charge to observe various native and migratory species.

• Hiking: If you're looking for scenic hiking trails that are free, you've come to the right place. Montnegre-Corredor Natural Park is a short drive away and offers routes through forests, over hills, and down valleys. Coastal views from higher spots are breathtaking.

Local dishes in Malgrat de Mar

One of the most enjoyable aspects of Malgrat de Mar vacations is tasting the regional cuisine. The rich flavors of Catalonia and the Mediterranean significantly influence the local cooking.

Some typical dishes

• Escalivada: Typically served with olive oil and toasted bread, this classic Catalan dish features grilled eggplant, peppers, and onions.

• Paella de Marisco: Saffron and aromatic spices add depth and flavor to this seafood paella, filled with fresh shrimp, mussels, and squid.

Tapas dishes

• Patatas Bravas: No visit to a tapas bar would be complete without trying these crispy potatoes topped with spicy tomato sauce and aioli.

• Calamares a la Romana: These lightly battered and fried squid rings are usually served with just a squeeze of lemon and a side of aioli.

Meat dishes

• Butifarra: Grilled Catalan sausage, drizzled with olive oil, is especially tasty when served with a side of white beans.

• Escudella: On chillier evenings, nothing beats a hearty dish of this Catalan stew, made with meat, veggies, and rice or noodles.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Suquet de Peix: A robust fish stew with a variety of shellfish, potatoes, and a fragrant broth enhanced with garlic and almonds.

• Dorada a la Sal: Sea bream baked in a salt crust, which keeps the fish incredibly moist and flavorful.

Desserts

• Crema Catalana: A classic Catalan dessert similar to crème brûlée, with a creamy custard base and a caramelized sugar topping.

• Turrón: A popular nougat made with almonds, honey, and egg whites, typically enjoyed around Christmas but available year-round.

Local drinks

• Cava: Cava is a sparkling wine that originates from the nearby Penedès area and is renowned for its crisp and refreshing flavor.

• Sangria: Red wine, a touch of brandy, fruit juices, and soda water are the main ingredients in this refreshing beverage, typically served with a variety of fresh fruits.