Aerial view of Blanes at sunset

Blanes holidays

Situated in Spain and described as the ‘Gateway to the Costa Brava’, this original fishing town has a lot to show for itself including a sprawling four-kilometre coastline. Its Old Quarter has plenty of Catalan character with ancient landmarks, a working fishing port and authentic tapas bars. This is also where you’ll find the daily farmers market selling the freshest fruit and vegetables. Shoppers can also delight in the many upscale boutiques found here whether they want to pick up a souvenir or some beachwear. Overlooked by the ruins of San Juan, head here for the best views with vistas extending all the way to Barcelona on a clear day.

Blanes information

Plane

Average flight time

2h

Clock

Time difference

GMT +1h

Wallet

Currency

Euro €

Language

Language

Spanish

A guide to Blanes holidays

Food & drink in Blanes

Stretching far beyond the Spanish favourite paella, the region has some specialities with fresh fish such as orada or dorada, which is basically sea bream. If you’re not a fan of seafood, we suggest trying pa amb tomàquet which you’ll find on most menus – it’s a toasted bread topped with tomato and doused with olive oil. Accompanying many tapas dishes is the region’s favourite garlic dip allioli – a must-try on any visit to Costa Brava. As one of the most famous fish restaurants in Blanes, you can’t come here without reserving a table in Can Flores. In a prime spot just metres away from the fish market, the seafood options are endless with top choices including the shellfish and paella. While, laBalma is known for its upmarket fare with an ever-changing blackboard of mouth-watering specialities and an extremely passionate chef.

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Best beaches in Blanes

Home to a beautiful crescent-shaped shoreline with pristine sand and water conditions which have been accredited a Blue Flag, Blanes is a fantastic spot for a beach day. With variety on the resort’s side, holidaymakers can choose between small rocky coves and wide expanses of coarse sand. At over 3,000 metres in length S’Abanell is a popular choice with avid sunbathers thanks to its central location and long list of watersports from parasailing to windsurfing and boat trips. Platja de Blanes is the next best thing as it is located right next to the port and comes with ample amenities. For something a little more secluded, Cala Punta Santa Anna is a cosy cove which is ideal for snorkelling expeditions thanks to its clear calm waters. Just a 10-minute walk away, getting here is easy too.

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Things to do in Blanes

Blending old and new Spain, Blanes is a well-rounded resort. Take your pick when it comes to beach days, immerse yourself in the culture with its year-round festivals or visit its exotic gardens. Those seeking history can admire the town’s restored ruins, or you can always hop on over to Barcelona for the day if you’re seeking more historical highlights.

Walk among exotic flora in Marimurtra Botanical Gardens: When you’re not getting lost among its 300 species of plant life with flora from the likes of Africa and Mexico, the panoramas of the Mediterranean will demand your attention due to its location in the mountains. There’s no wonder the garden has been described as one of the best in Europe. After admiring this tropical landscape, you can also visit its laboratory, weather station and herbarium. Special events are held here too with musicians often playing after dark and guided tours which you can join daily for an informative experience.

Take in Mediterranean views from San Juan hill: Located on San Juan hill you’ll find a castle of the same name where the vistas are mesmerising. Standing 173 metres in height, climb to the top and admire the imposing landscape. But whatever you do, make sure you come armed with your camera so you can capture the resort’s sun-kissed coast peering through the structure’s stone archway. If you’re lucky you may even spot Montjuïc Mountain, one of Barcelona’s most beautiful spots. We suggest tackling the incline first thing on a morning or on an evening when the sun is a little cooler to make the hike a little more bearable.

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Map of Blanes

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