Empuriabrava, often called the 'Venice of Spain', is a hidden gem on the Costa Brava featuring 25km of navigable canals and the largest residential marina in Europe. With return flights from as low as £20, it offers a quieter alternative to Venice, attracting fewer tourists while providing a unique blend of water-based luxury and outdoor activities.
What Makes Empuriabrava Unique?
Built in 1967 as an exclusive destination, Empuriabrava stands apart from typical Spanish beach resorts. It boasts 5,000 private jetties and one of the largest man-made inhabited marinas in the world, lined with yachts and villas. The town has a permanent population of about 7,800 to 8,000, swelling to nearly 80,000 in summer.
Things to Do
Visitors enjoy sandy beaches, boat trips, golf courses, and a Saturday market. Watersports like sailing, kitesurfing, and windsurfing are popular on the Gulf of Roses bay. Skydive Empuriabrava is among the top three skydiving centres globally, with over 2.8 million jumps. Boat hire starts at €60 for four people per hour.
Cultural and Historical Sites
The 13th-century Castle of Empúries, though ruined, is a Gothic marvel and home of the Spanish comic hero Captain Thunder. The Ruins de Empúries showcase Greek and Roman remains, and the Basilica of Santa Maria de Castelló d'Empúries is a must-visit Gothic church.
Dining in Empuriabrava
The region is known for Palamós red prawns, suquet de peix (fish stew), and cimitomba. Classic tapas include mussels, grilled sardines, botifarra sausage, and pa amb tomàquet. For Michelin-starred dining, El Celler de Can Roca in Girona (45 minutes away) holds three stars and was twice named the world's best restaurant. Nearby Miramar (two stars) and Empòrium (one star) are also excellent.
Accommodation Options
Stay by the marina for views and convenience. Airbnb apartments start at £90 per night. Hotel Port Salins (four-star) from £96 per night, or budget-friendly Hotel Portofino (three-star) from £53 per night.
Getting There
Girona-Costa Brava Airport is less than an hour away. Ryanair offers return flights from £20 (e.g., 1-6 September). Jet2 has returns from £166 for the same dates.
