Compare Calella holidays

What to do in Calella

Shops and tapas bars line the cobbled streets of the old town and further afield, Calella’s natural landscapes encourage you to explore on foot. Barcelona is a tempting day trip away, too.

Beaches

Calella’s main stretch of sand, Platja Gran (Big Beach), buzzes with sun seekers and families in summer. To keep you active, there are several beach volleyball courts, and you can give canoeing, parasailing and other watersports a go.

For a change of scene, Platja de les Roques is at the southern end of town. The crystal-clear waters beside pine trees and cliffs make up for the lack of sand. Nudism is allowed here.

Old town

The old town is the place to discover Calella’s past or simply lose yourself wandering the narrow streets. The 16th-century Church of St Mary and St Nicholas, built in a Neoclassical Baroque style, is a good starting point.

Browse the fresh produce in the municipal market, which has a traditional facade in the style of a Catalan farmhouse. A pedestrianised shopping street and the plethora of bars and restaurants also make the old town a must-see.

Hiking

Get in touch with nature at Montnegre Corredor Natural Park. Hiking trails snake over the lush landscapes and range from the gentle to the challenging. For a soothing stroll, take the Route of the Cormorant. It’s a relatively easy walk past typical Mediterranean flora, including lavender and chamomile and leads to lookouts with magnificent views of Calella’s coast.

Looking for a challenge? Follow the Route of the Fox. The trek goes through an area of rich biodiversity, where you can spot foxes, squirrels and badgers. The park is about four miles away from Calella.

Lighthouse and turrets

On the cliffs between Calella and neighbouring Sant Pol de Mar, the lighthouse of Calella has overlooked the coastline since 1859. Visit for the sweeping panorama of golden sands below and peek in inside for an overview of its history.

Another symbol of the town is the Turrets of Calella, just a 15-minute walk from the lighthouse. The towers were built in the 19th century as a military outpost and coastal communications network.

Barcelona day trip

Barcelona, one of the world’s most-visited cities, is easily reachable by car or public transport from Calella. Head to the Catalan capital to take in its celebrated cultural sights, including Gaudí’s Sagrada Família and Casa Batlló.

For art of a different kind, see Messi and co. play at FC Barcelona’s famous Camp Nou stadium. If shopping is more your thing, Passeig de Gràcia is a boulevard packed with fashion boutiques. Before you leave, make sure you experience the city’s excellent dining scene.