The best coastal walks around Barcelona

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Barcelona may be synonymous with urban beach culture, but for those willing to go a little further afield - or simply head to the edge of town - Catalonia’s coast offers a series of strikingly beautiful, walkable routes. From former smugglers' trails to pine-framed cliff paths, these coastal walks offer panoramic views, and often, a seaside lunch well worth the journey.

Here are five of the best.

1. Tossa de Mar to Cala Pola
Time: ~1.5 hrs round trip | Difficulty: Moderate

For a more immersive Costa Brava escape, head to Tossa de Mar and take the Camí de Ronda north toward Cala Pola. The medieval walled town gives way to fragrant cliff paths, punctuated by sea breezes and the occasional goat. The walk is relatively short but has some ups and downs—rewarded by access to one of the prettiest little coves on the coast. Cala Pola remains relatively untouched and is ideal for a mid-hike swim. Bring water, good shoes, and your camera.

2. El Camí de Ronda, S’Agaró to Platja d’Aro
Time: ~1.5 hrs | Difficulty: Easy

Though a bit further north, this section of the Camí de Ronda - a historic coastal path originally used by fishermen and border patrol - remains one of the Costa Brava’s most elegant. Start in the impeccably preserved 1920s enclave of S’Agaró, where manicured stone paths weave through fragrant pines and past graceful villas. The route is short, civilised, and scenic, with regular stairways down to small, secluded beaches. End in Platja d’Aro for a gelato or a linger at Sa Cova, a terrace bar carved into the rocks.

3. Garraf to Sitges
Time: ~2.5 hrs | Difficulty: Moderate

A favourite among locals looking for a weekend escape, the walk from Garraf to Sitges traces the dramatic Garraf coastline through rocky outcrops and wild coves. Begin in the sleepy village of Garraf (a quick train from Barcelona), known for its green-and-white beach huts and Gaudí-adjacent architecture. The path climbs gently before revealing sweeping sea views, with Mediterranean scrub giving way to cliff-hugging trails. Reward yourself in Sitges with a cold vermut and seafood at La Zorra, just behind the promenade.

4. Montgat to El Masnou
Time: ~1 hr | Difficulty: Very easy

Just 20 minutes by train from the city, this breezy seaside walk connects two quiet coastal towns with a flat, palm-lined promenade and a string of sandy beaches along the way. Starting in Montgat, with its laid-back surfer vibe and wide beach, follow the shoreline north to El Masnou, where sailboats bob in the marina and the pace slows even further. It’s a local favourite for a morning run or a lazy weekend stroll. Grab a cortado and a pastry at Salitre Café, just steps from the sea.

5. Barcelona to El Prat Beach (via Llobregat Delta)
Time: ~3 hrs | Difficulty: Easy, flat

This one’s for those who like their landscapes to shift. Starting from the southern edge of the city, this walk follows a surprisingly tranquil route through the Llobregat Delta nature reserve. You’ll spot planes taking off from El Prat airport overhead, flamingos in the wetlands, and eventually reach the wide, windswept sands of El Prat beach, untouched compared to its urban counterparts. It’s a favourite for birdwatchers, cyclists, and those who prefer wild dunes to beach clubs.

Planning notes

• Many of these walks are easily accessible by train from Barcelona (Renfe or Rodalies), making them viable for a half-day escape.

• In summer, aim to start early or walk late due to the heat; Catalan coastal light is particularly beautiful just after sunrise or before sunset.

• Keep in mind that not all routes have regular access to water or shade—plan accordingly.