places to visit in figueres spain

What I Wish I’d Known Before Spending A Day in Figueres Spain

Posted on Published: January 15, 2020  - Last updated: February 26, 2024

Categories Europe , Honest Reviews , Spain

Figueres is an interesting Spanish city to visit to say the least. It’s by no means the prettiest, or the cutest, Spanish city I’ve seen ( like Girona Spain views !).

There’s also really only two things to do in Figueres : visit The Dalí Museum and The Castell De Sant Ferran. But ! if you’re interested in Salvador Dalí, then a day trip to Figueres Spain is a must-do!

If you aren’t such a huge Dalí fan, then I’d read my honest review about Figueres Spain before booking train tickets to visit. This is what I wish I’d known before spending a day in Figueres Spain…

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Where Is Figueres Spain?

Figueres Spain is in the province of Girona in Catalonia Spain. It’s about 137 km away from Barcelona (about an hour and a half drive). It’s also about 50 minutes passed Girona, the city, which is a must visit from Barcelona !

Figueres Spain has easy day trip potential from both Barcelona and the South of France and you don’t really need to spend any longer in this Spanish city than one day. Figueres is actually closer to the South of France than it is to Barcelona. This means that it actually has a very strong French speaking community in Figueres.

It’s also in the Catalonian region in Spain which means they speak primarily Catalan over Spanish.

How To Get From Barcelona To Figueres

Visiting Figueres from Barcelona is a very easy day trip to do. There are four ways to get from Barcelona to Figueres: train, bus, drive, or go on an organized tour.

The easiest way to get from Barcelona to Figueres is to take the train. It’s relatively cheap and the train leaves a few times throughout the day. The train also isn’t much longer than driving, just under an hour. Once you arrive in Figueres, the train station is located a short walk from the city centre.

The cheapest but longest option to is to take the bus from Barcelona to Figueres.

You can also rent a car and drive to Figueres, but don’t forget about parking once you arrive and dealing with driving in a foreign country.

Finally, if you don’t want to deal with transportation and getting lost in a new city, you can also go on an organized tour from Barcelona to Figueres . It’s typically the most expensive option, but it’s also the most stress free.

Find the best transportation option from Barcelona to Figueres here .

Viator Group Tours To Figueres From Barcelona

An organized tour from Barcelona to Figueres is by far the easiest way to see the city.

Viator offers a few options depending on your budget and what you’re interested in doing…

If you’re a Dali fan, you’ll want to go on this full day tour from Barcelona to Figueres AND the coastal village of Cadaqués where Dali also had homes that you can tour.

Or book this full day tour from Barcelona that takes you to both Girona and Figueres (to tour the Dali Museum).

For more Figueres day trips from Barcelona on Viator, click here .

Need A Place To Stay? Figueres Hotel Recommendations

I didn’t stay overnight in Figueres, we went back to Barcelona. But if you’re looking to enjoy some of the nightlife, book a place to stay the night in Figueres Spain. Here are some recommendations I found in the city centre.

Apartment With Views & Location : The Museum Apartments is next door to the Dali Museum – it doesn’t get better than that! You can book a room with either a private terrace, patio, or balcony or a view! This is also ideal if you’re travelling with family or friends, rooms can sleep up to 7 people! See room rates & availability .

Hotel : If you’re looking for a more classic hotel, stay at the Duran Hotel in Figueres Spain. You also have the Duran restaurant downstairs where Dali himself used to eat! See room rates & availability .

For more accommodation options in Figueres, click here .

What Is Figueres Known For? Connection To Salvador Dalí

The main thing figueres is known for is being the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. He wasn’t just born there though, he lived and breathed Figueres. He lived there with his wife and was buried there.

But today, it’s mainly known for the museum that Dalí opened up in Figueres. It’s also where he set up his museum – The Dalí Theatre-Museum – with the largest collection of his work.

Check out my favourite Salvador Dalí Book

• Used Book in Good Condition
• Hardcover Book
• Halsman, Philippe (Author)
• English (Publication Language)
• 128 Pages – 01/15/1996 (Publication Date) – Flammarion (Publisher)

PSA: Only Visit If You’re Interested in Salvador Dalí

I can’t stress this enough! If you visit Figueres with this in mind, then you won’t be disappointed. There are a few other museums you can visit, but realistically, how many museums can you visit in one day? 

There’s also a fortress on the edge of town which is interesting, don’t get me wrong, but again, it’s nothing that you can’t see in other European cities (shoutout to Namur and Dinant in Belgium ).  

And other than that… the rest is all focused around Salvador Dalí.

Dalí Attractions To See in Figueres

There are the two main Figueres Spain Dalí museums to visit, but there are also some hidden gems that you should see.

The Dalí Theatre-Museum is the main attraction that you should be going to Figueres for. It’s the main museum that’s really unique to the town. Of course, you can find Dalí originals elsewhere, but this is one of the largest collections. The museum itself is also a Dalí masterpiece, it was designed specifically to showcase his work. 

You can also visit the Dalí Jewels Museums to see a collection of the jewellery he designed. Attached to the museum (in the red part of the building) is where Gala (his wife) and Dalí lived. Make sure to find the plaque next to the tower it’ll answer all your questions about the building (like why there are eggs on top of it). 

Figueres isn’t just where Dalí lived as an adult, if you walk a bit further down Las Ramblas you can see his childhood home where Dalí lived until he was 12. On the way there’s a cool monument to Dalí in the centre of Las Ramblas that you shouldn’t miss!

Tips For Visiting The Figueres Spain Dalí Museum

As I said, the Dalí Theatre-Museum is the main attraction in Figueres Spain and because of that, it’s PACKED. I swear the town feels like a ghost town until you walk inside and realize this is where everyone is.

You’d think the number of people they let inside would be more controlled because you have to buy a timed ticket. This isn’t the case. It’s absolute chaos inside (even during low season), most of the rooms and passageways are small and there are just too many people to fit. 

Unfortunately, this made the museum a bit less enjoyable for us because we weren’t used to this many people. If you want to try to avoid the chaos don’t book a morning ticket. The museum was busy all day, but I noticed the morning was completely sold out. So if you want to try and avoid the crowds, book an afternoon time slot (or book a guided tour of the museum with a pre-booked ticket with Viator here ).

I also recommend grabbing a seat in the outdoor space of the museum (the first section in the centre). There are seats all along the wall. It’s a good way to get some space from everyone to be able to take your time appreciating all the detail in the space.

Tips For Visiting Figueres Spain Dalí Museum #2: Dalí Jewels

Dalí Jewels is another Figueres Spain Dalí museum to visit. It’s the complete opposite of the Dalí Theatre-Museum though. You don’t need timed entry and no one seems to visit, so it’s also way less crowded. You’re actually able to take your time admiring his precious jewels.

Heads up though, it’s quite dark inside the museum and getting inside is only a bit terrifying. You have to go through windowless revolving doors and for a second it becomes pitch black… but it’s worth it!

You might also be interested in reading…

15 Fascinating Barcelona Fun Facts You Didn’t Know Before

Tips For Buying Tickets To Figueres Spain Dalí Museum

If you’re interested in visiting both the Dalí Theatre-Museum and the Dalí Jewels, buy a combined ticket.

You can buy your tickets  online in advance  or at the door. If you need to go in the morning I recommend buying online because those are quicker to sell out. But, if you’re a student they offer discounted rates at the door that they don’t show you online.

You can also book tickets in advance with a guided tour through Viator here .

Tickets are timed for entry every 30 minutes. I recommend buying for 30 minutes before you think you’ll want to go (i.e. if you want to go at 3:00 buy for 2:30). You have the full 30 minutes from your ticket entry to go in but they won’t let you in before it. It was annoying when we arrived 15 minutes before our ticket entry time and had to wait outside in line.

In order to avoid some of the crowded chaos, I recommend arriving 15 minutes passed your entry time.  Everyone is arriving at the same time otherwise, and there’s always a line up to get in. Arriving 15 minutes later gives people time to get ahead of you, so hopefully, there will be fewer people when you get there.

Figueres Spain Things To Do Not Related To Dalí

There isn’t much else to do in Figueres Spain that isn’t connected to Salvador Dalí. There are a few other museums you can visit, or the second largest attraction in the city, The Castell De Sant Ferran.

Other Museums To Visit

There are so many museums aside from the Dalí-Theatre-Museum but there are three main recommendations. The  Toy Museum of Catalonia ,  Museu de l’Empordà   (art museum), and  Technical Museum of the Empordà .

I think they’re all very well done, but after visiting two Dalí museums, we were kind of museum-ed out for the day!

What To Do In Figueres? Visiting The Castell De Sant Ferran

When researching what to do in Figueres, the Castell de Sant Ferran was always suggested. It looks like it would be a lot further than it actually is so I originally didn’t think it was doable in a day. But the Castell de Sant Ferran only a 20-minute walk from the Dalí Theatre-Museum.

Other than exploring the grounds on your own, you can also go on a guided visit underground and to the exterior parts of the fortress (you have to  book in advance  for those tours though). 

Our plan was to visit the Fortress in the afternoon, but unfortunately in the winter, it closes at 3:00 P.M. ( and Google isn’t aware of this ).

If this happens to you, it’s still worth walking up to the fortress. Even if it’s closed, you can still walk around the grounds, there’s a path that takes you all around the fortress. You can sort of peak inside, and you also get some skyline views of Figueres and the Province of Girona.

Tips For Spending A Day Figueres… What To Know

There are a few things that I wish that I’d known before I visited Figueres for the day. I was thrown off guard by quite a few things that I wasn’t expecting.

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English is Useless!

Figueres is a 45-minute train ride from Barcelona, ( stopping at Girona along the way ). But, more tourists actually visit the city from France. How do I know that? Well, I noticed a lot more people were speaking French than Spanish or even Catalan, and NOT ONE person spoke English.

If you don’t know either French, Spanish, or Catalan (i.e. only English) it’s going to be very hard for you to get around here. This was a total shock to us. In every restaurant (even in the main tourist area), our English was useless and we had to resort to French (which is good because it could use the practice!). We only wanted to know if they accepted card and the employees had no idea what we were saying.

Don’t Trust Google When Visiting Figueres Spain!

Another thing to watch out for when visiting Figueres for the day are the opening hours. Because it’s not exactly a big city, Google isn’t on top of their game with their information.

Most stores have a 4-hour lunch break in the middle of the day from around 12:00 to 4:00 P.M.. But the bigger issue comes up when you’re visiting in the low season. Most attractions have different hours for fall, winter, and summer . Google won’t be aware of the change in hours so be sure to double-check the websites and not to rely on Google.

It’s Far From The Prettiest Spanish Town

On most day trips, once I’ve visited all the main attractions I’m able to fill my time photographing the more picturesque parts of town. Unfortunately, there isn’t much to see in Figueres Spain.

First off, the town is so small that you end up walking in a circle most of the time. There aren’t any hidden streets to discover or beautiful architecture to admire.

On my exploration of the city, I managed to find some nice fountains and a sculpture of Saint George! Plus make sure not to miss a really cool Salvador Dalí monument in the middle of Las Ramblas!

Not The Place To Come For Local Shopping

At the end of the day, I also usually like to check out the local shopping… from what I saw it was all bigger chain stores. I guess the city is so small that in the limited space they have they want the name brands.

If you’re looking for local shopping, you know, stores you can’t find back home (or even back in Barcelona), then don’t rely on Figueres for that. There were very limited boutique stores that I wanted to go into.

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Where To Eat in Figueres Spain?

We managed to eat a lot of food on our day trip to Figueres. It was a good way to pass the time (because there isn’t much to do there and all the stores close in the afternoon).

In the main city centre you can stop at either Calid Café or El Cafito for a quick coffee break. We saw Calid Café serving a delicious Spanish style lunch but they understood the least amount of English out of anyone here, and they won’t start serving lunch a minute before their lunch break starts. 

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Lizarran For Lunch

After we tried to eat at Calid Café for lunch, we ended up at Lizarran for some traditional tapas. They serve pinxtos, the ones with the toothpicks.

It’s a fun scene because they announce when they bring out new pintxos and they’ll come around offering it to each table. You have to be careful here because the bill can really add up. You keep the toothpicks from each pintxos you take, they’re about €2.00 – €2.50 each. 

I’d try a few tapas but also order a plate to fill up. You also have to order their patatas bravas – delicious!

Pau For Coffee/Tea Break

I love this place! It’s a bit out of the touristy zone but not too far out of the way. They have everything here from coffee and tea, alcohol, to simple (but tasty) sandwiches. Our favourite though was ordering Spanish hot chocolate and melindros (sponge cookies)!

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Monday 7th of August 2023

thank you very much for your comments and pictures. i think i read that some other spots in Spain won't let you in past the time on your ticket so i'd be concerned about showing up 15 minutes late at the Dali museum.

Betty Esris

Monday 27th of February 2023

Very interesting article with good insights. I will be staying in Figueres for three nights as a jumping off point for the Dali museum and environs, including Cadeques, Besalu, and Barcelona. Do you have a reliable taxi service to recommend? We will be in the center of town (Carrer Monturiol) and want a taxi to take us to Figueres Vilafont train station for a morning train to Barcelona--without being late. Thanks for any advice!

Tuesday 28th of February 2023

That sounds like a wonderful trip! Unfortunately, I don't have a taxi company that we used. When we visited Figures we walked to and from the train station to the city. Sorry I couldn't be more help

Monday 14th of November 2022

Really interesting but I think it's important to write that the majority of people are speaking Catalan, not French or Spanish.

Yes! I'll update the post with this info! Thanks!

Sunday 17th of October 2021

It seems you missed the well known restaurant at Hotel Ampurdan. A different league from the ones you mention.

Wednesday 15th of December 2021

Thanks for your comment, I tried looking it up and and couldn't find anything about it.

Sunday 19th of January 2020

What a great guide to Figueres! I have to be honest, I haven't visited Spain outside of Barcelona and Malaga, so I was excited to read more about this interesting place. Fortunately, I'm a huge Dali fan, so it sounds like a great city for me! I also really appreciated your tips -- I ran into the same thing in Chile, where my English tended to be useless. It made me regret not brushing up on my Spanish before going (I took French in school and maybe one quarter of Spanish, but I wish I had taken more!).

Monday 20th of January 2020

You'd love Figueres then! Dali is everywhere and it's amazing! Oh no! It's always a shock when someone doesn't speak English but definitely makes you want to improve your other language skills.

Travel Safe

Figueres, county capital of Alt Empordà, extends over a river plain situated inland in the province of Girona.

Known as the home of Salvador Dalí, this town with deep Catalan roots offers visitors the chance to go to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, dedicated to the genius of surrealist painting. It is a cultural range completed with various museums and a calendar full of festivals and events divided up throughout the year.

Figueres also has an important heritage of monuments, among which the old medieval walls and the castle of Sant Ferran are outstanding, as well as examples of Modernist and Neoclassical architecture which appear dotted around the city centre. To the many attractions of Figueres, are added its excellent position, which enables you to discover the great tourist potential offered by beautiful parts of the Costa Brava. Situated between the eastern end of the Pyrenean chain and the Costa Brava , Figueres is a town full of tourist attractions. On the outskirts, the castle of Sant Ferran , a fortress built in the 18 th century, dominates the town on top of a hill. Its colossal size and its perimeter of more than three kilometres, make it one of the largest in Europe. The historic centre of Figueres is bounded by remains of its old wall , put up in the Middle Ages to defend the town. Beautiful corners from the medieval period are preserved, like the Plaza del Ayuntamiento , remodelled in Neoclassical style and where the council building stands, or the area around Carrer Magre , where there old Jewish quarter was located. La Rambla is the main place for walking and the real heart of the city. This lively commercial street concentrates the most ambitious architectural projects of the 19 th and 20 th centuries, most of them pushed forward by the rising local middle classes of the time. The great profusion of modernist buildings , like Casa Cusí , Casa Puig-Soler and Casa Salleras should be pointed out; and, in Neoclassical style, Casa Bonaterra, Casa del Cafè Progrés and Casa Polideseia should be mentioned. In terms of religious architecture, the church of Sant Pere deserves special attention. Originally build in Romanesque style, the parish church was rebuilt in the 14th century under Gothic rules. Later other elements were added, such as the transept and the apse, both from te 18 th century. Other interesting buildings are the chapel of Sant Sebastià , of medieval origin and remodelled at the beginning of the 17 th C. and the Convent of Els Caputxins , a complex built in the 18 th century.

The Dalí Theatre-Museum

Without doubt, however, one of the historical milestones that has left the greatest mark on the character of the town was the birth of Salvador Dalí. The Dalí Theatre-Museum , situated in the old municipal theatre, has become one of the main cultural places to see in the city. Designed by the artist himself, it holds an important exhibition , which, through numerous works, allows you to take a trip through the career of the main considered a master of Surrealism. The site was extended with the Torre Galatea , where the artistic genius died. Another two museums complete Figueres' wide cultural offer: the Catalan Toy Museum , which exhibits an interesting collection of toys from different periods and the Empordà Museum , where you can penetrate the history and art of the county. All this will contribute to uncovering a town with a deep Catalan nature, as demonstrated by its being the home of the sardana, the typical Catalan dance.

Surrounding and cuisine

The excellent location of Figueres enables you to make interesting trips throughout the county. On the coast are picturesque places like Colera , a seaside village which has beautiful beaches like Garvet and Els Morts; Llançà , with a lively marina; Cadaqués , home of the Salvador Dalí House-Museum, and Port de la Selva , where the Romanesque monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is located. To the south of Cap de Creus is Roses , which preserves remains of the ancient Greek colony of Rhode, and Castelló d’Empuries , where the church of Santa María (10 th C.) is outstanding. This part of the Costa Brava has large protected areas. In the Gulf of Roses is the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà Natural Park , an important ecological reserve and refuge for water birds. For its part, the Cap de Creus Natural Park is an excellent place from a natural point of view and a clear example of the appearance of the Costa Brava. The cuisine of Figueras combines raw materials from the sea and the mountains. From the nearby coast come fish , which are served boiled, baked, grilled or in sauce. Other recipes, like chicken or rabbit with spiny lobster and beef with vegetables, wild mushrooms or fruits, are also typical. To accompany these, you can choose any of the excellent wines and cavas labelled under the Ampurdán - Costa Brava Denomination of Origin . The popular "novell" (rosé) wine, as well as sweet wines and young reds should be mentioned.

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Dalí Theatre-Museum

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• The Top 10 Things To...

The Top 10 Things to Do and See in Figueres, Spain

The small town of Figueres lies within Catalonia’s Costa Brava region in Spain. It sits approximately 45 minutes’ drive north of Girona and half an hour south of the French border. The town’s main claim to fame is that it was where the artist Salvador Dalí was born and is where his main museum in Spain is located. But there’s more to it than the eccentric artist, so here’s our pick of the top 10 things to do and see in Figueres.

1. teatro museo dalí.

The Teatro Museo is the main Dalí museum in Spain. It’s housed in a large red theatre, which was renovated by Dalí himself. On the outside it’s covered in yellow pieces of the local bread, with white eggs on the roof and golden statues. Dalí wanted this museum to be a surrealist journey through his bizarre world, and he definitely succeeded in that aim. The museum houses one of the best Dalí collections of art in the world, featuring not only paintings and drawings, but also three-dimensional installations and sculptures. This is also where the artist is buried.

2. Dalí Jewels Collection

Right next to the Dalí Theatre Museum is the Dalí Jewels Collection, a permanent exhibition housed in a purpose-built two-storey building. It showcases an extensive collection of jewellery made by the artist between 1941 and 1970 and also features 39 gold jewels and precious stones of the Owen Cheatham collection. Visitors will also be able to see 27 drawings and paintings that Salvador Dalí made for the jewels’ designs.

3. Museu del Joguet de Catalunya

The Toy Museum of Catalonia is a great place to take the kids on your exploration of Figueres. The museum covers three floors and houses an extensive collection. On the ground floor you’ll find the information desk, temporary exhibits as well as spaces for the little ones to draw and colour. Head up to the first floor to discover all about the games of ancient times. Here you’ll find, among ancient spinning tops, dolls and figurines, the remains of a board game named Ur, which is a direct antecedent of chess and dates back to 3000BC. And on the top floor, kids of all ages will delight in the miniature railway built by Andreu Costa Pedro (Barcelona, 1926–2013), who took eight years to construct it.

4. Museu De L’Empordà

Museu De L’Empordà houses one of the most outstanding collections of art in the region. It first opened in 1946, however its collection dates back to the end of the 19th century. It is currently housed in a building constructed in 1971 as a museum of archeology, history and art, but today mainly focuses on art with a few archeology collections. Artists whose work is featured here include Sorolla, Casas, Gargallo, Tàpies and Dalí.

5. Museu de la Tècnica de l’Empordà

As the name suggests, The Technology Museum of Empordà focuses on technology and exhibits more than 3,000 mechanical antiques from the 18th and 19th centuries. You’ll see everything here, from the first sewing machines (1830) to unique typewriters, telephones and switchboards. Look out for the stunning Morez Comptoise clocks and the 1908 Hispano-Suiza car. It’s one of the finest collections of tools on display in Catalonia.

6. Casa Natal de Salvador Dalí

Salvador Dalí’s birth house can be found on Monturiol Street in Figueres. It’s not a museum or a particular attraction, but it’s great to see if you’re interested to know where the famous artist grew up. Combine this with a trip to the Dalí-Theatre Museum.

7. Castell de Sant Ferran

Figueres’ Castle of Sant Ferran is located on a hill to the side of the city. It’s an old fortification dating back to the 18th century and is surrounded by bastions. The castle covers an area of ​​32 hectares with a perimeter of 3,120 metres. In its time it had the capacity to hold 4,000 men, making it one of the largest fortresses in Europe. You can visit this magnificent construction by yourself or on a guided tour.

8. Església de Sant Pere

The Church of Sant Pere is one of the oldest and most important churches in Figueres. It dates back to the 10th and 11th centuries and was originally Romanesque, but Gothic elements were added at later dates. You can also still see part of the old city wall attached to the foot of the bell tower.

9. Duran Hotel & Restaurant

Hotel Restaurant, Spanish

When you’re in Figueres, don’t miss a visit to the Duran Hotel & Restaurant, where Salvador Dalí himself used to hang out. Visit the hotel’s restaurant on the ground floor, which has an attached wine cellar and is decorated in a traditional style with old wooden rafters, chunky tables and whitewashed walls. Here you’ll find the cellar paying homage to Dalí, filled with photos of him with various celebrities, as well as some of his sketches.

La Rambla de Figueres

At the heart of the small town of Figueres sits the town’s Rambla, a long pedestrianised street lined with shops and restaurants. It’s a lot more relaxed and chilled than the more famous Rambla in Barcelona and is less touristy too. Here you can experience the true essence of a local Rambla.

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10 Things To Do In Figueres, Spain In One Day

Welcome to Figueres! A town in which you can immerse into the enigmatic mind of one of the greatest artists the world has ever seen – Salvador Dali. The jewel that he has left behind, the surreal Theatre-Museum, is the centerpiece of the town. Yet Figueres offers much more than just that. There you’ll also find a mighty 18th-century fortress and delightful old town streets full of Modernist architecture, cozy restaurants, and small local shops. Keep reading and discover the best things to do in Figueres, Spain in one day. 

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Figueres, Spain FAQ

Figueres is a small town located in Catalonia in the Province of Girona in Spain . It lies about 40km from Girona , 140km from Barcelona , and 25 km from the French border. All of that makes Figueres a great one-day trip idea both from Catalonia and Occitanie in the South of France . 

Sure! Figueres is a unique place to see in Catalonia , that not only art lovers or Salvador Dali fans will love. We’re sure that every curious, open-minded traveler will appreciate this artistic wonderland.

Figueres is best known for being the birthplace and final resting place of iconic Surrealist artist Salvador Dali. The town is also home to the Dali Theatre-Museum, a masterpiece of surrealism that the artist designed himself, which attracts thousands of visitors who want to immerse in his imaginative world each year. 

Yes, in our opinion Salvador Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres is worth visiting. We’re sure that even people not interested in art will be picking their jaws from the floor several times during the visit. 

How to get to Figueres, Spain?

Figueres is located about 40km from Girona , 55km from Perpignan in France, and 140km from Barcelona. The most convenient way to get to town is by car, train or bus.

Where to park in Figueres?

If you’re traveling by car you can choose from both free and paid parking lots in Figueres. We managed to leave our car in this free parking lot located only about 8min on foot from Dali Museum. 

Airports near Figueres

The closest airport to Figueres is located in Girona (50km away), and the next one is located in Barcelona (150km away). All airports offer bus or train+bus connections to town. To learn more about connections that might interest you visit rome2rio.com website. 

To Figueres by train

Figueres train station is located only about 15min on foot from the Dali Museum. From many places like Barcelona, Girona, Tarragona, Narbonne or Perpignan you can easily get to Figueres by train. You can check out a map of available train connections on the acprail.com or rome2rio.com website. For great train ticket deals visit the Trainline website . 

To Figueres by bus

You can also easily reach Figueres by bus. For example, a trip from Girona will take about 45min (€3-5), 2h45min from Barcelona (€8-12), and 1h from Perpignan in France (€9-14). To learn more about bus connections that might interest you visit rome2rio.com website.

To Figueres by taxi 

The most expensive option, but also the fastest one if you care about time. For example, a trip from Girona will take only about 30min (€50-60). To learn more about taxi connections that interest you visit rome2rio.com website.

Camping Figueres

If you’re traveling by camper, campings like Camping Mas Nou , Camping L’àmfor a, Càmping Laguna or Càmping Castell Mar might interest you. All are located in close proximity to Figueres. 

Things to do in Figueres, Spain in one day – Summing up 

Figueres might not be the most beautiful or exciting destination in Catalonia but it’s definitely filled with great and unique things to do. From the mind-blowing Dali Museum and fascinating Toy Museum to the largest fortress in Europe… Especially art lovers or Dali fans will be in heaven! But we’re sure that every traveler will find something perfect for himself in town. We wish you an amazing time and hope that thanks to our guide you won’t miss any of the things to do in Figueres in one day. 

Our video from Figueres

Our opinion about figueres.

For us, a visit to Figueres was a one-day trip from Saint-Cyprien in France where we lived for a few weeks. We visited it in mid-December and during that time the city was fairly quiet, without hordes of tourists, most of whom were in the Dali Museum. During that time there also was a really nice Christmas Market in town, and we brought back with us Tió de Nadal, a famous Christmas Log from Catalonia. 

We’re not huge fans of art or museums but we truly enjoyed our visit to Dali Theatre-Museum and immersing ourselves into the mind of a genius surrealist. We spent there around 2.5h and could do even more but after that time we were already tired and we passed by the last 20-30% of the exhibitions fairly quickly. We hate crowds, and visiting in December was very pleasant, only from time to time we came across other people. 

Unfortunately, our visit to Figueres wasn’t without mishaps. We really wanted to visit the Toy Museum but didn’t check that it’s closed on Sundays. We also wanted to visit the fortress but arrived 20 minutes before closing. Maybe next time! 

Hotel Plaza Inn

Hotel Plaza Inn in Figueres offers a comfortable and centrally located accommodation option. Situated in the heart of town, it provides easy access to attractions like the Dali Theatre-Museum. With its convenient location, modern amenities, and attentive service, Hotel Plaza Inn is an excellent choice for travelers exploring the artistic and historical treasures of the region.

The Museum Apartments

The Museum Apartments in Figueres provide a unique and immersive stay for art enthusiasts. Located near the iconic Salvador Dali Theatre-Museum, these apartments offer a cultural experience, allowing guests to explore the art and history of the renowned surrealist artist. With stylish interiors and a prime location, The Museum Apartments are an ideal choice for those seeking an artistic retreat in the heart of Figueres.

Hotel Pirineos

Hotel Pirineos is a charming accommodation option that combines modern comfort with a touch of traditional elegance. Located in the city center, it offers convenient access to attractions like the Dali Museum. With well-appointed rooms, friendly service, and proximity to cultural landmarks it a delightful stay for travelers exploring Figueres and its artistic heritage.

Accommodations photos source: booking.com

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Fourteen kilometres inland from Catalonia's glistening Golf de Roses lies Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dalí and now home to the artist’s flamboyant theatre-museum. Although Dalí’s career took him to Madrid, Barcelona, Paris and the USA, Figueres remained close to his heart. In the 1960s and '70s he created the extraordinary Teatre-Museu Dalí – a monument to surrealism and a legacy that outshines any other Spanish artist, in terms of both popularity and sheer flamboyance. Whatever your feelings about this complex, egocentric man, this museum is worth every euro and minute you can spare.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Teatre-Museu Dalí

The first name that pops into your head when you lay eyes on this red castle-like building, topped with giant eggs and stylised Oscar-like statues and…

Centre de Reproducció de Tortugues de l'Albera

This long-running little wildlife sanctuary is a haven for Hermann's tortoises, and a force for educating people about these threatened little armoured…

Museu de l’Empordà

Extending over four floors, the local museum time travels from ancient amphorae to 7th-century sculptures to rotating installations of contemporary art…

Castell de Sant Ferran

Figueres' sturdy 18th-century fortress commands the surrounding plains from a low hill 1km northwest of the centre. The complex is a wonder of military…

Museu del Joguet

This museum has more than 5000 toys from throughout the ages – from the earliest board games involving coloured stones, to intricate dolls’ houses, to…

Canònica de Santa Maria de Vilabertran

In Vilabertran, 2.5km northeast of central Figueres, you'll find a serene 11th-century Romanesque church with three naves, a Lombard bell tower, and an…

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Visit Figueres, Spain; a travel guide to the town of Figueres

Visit Figueres

Figueres is in the province of Girona in the Catalonia region of Spain.

Figueres is a pleasant town with an attractive centre, a large castle and a café-lined 'rambla'. However it is for the Salvador Dali museum that large numbers of visitors come each year.

Indeed, the Salvador Dali Museum (Teatre-Museu Dali) is the most visited museum in Spain after the Prado in Madrid and the Guggenheim in Bilbao.

Explore Figueres

Spain This Way Comment: We are not particularly Salvador Dali fans but non the less were blown away by the Salvador Dali Museum at Figueres. Make sure you go to see it.

There is a large 18th century castle, the Castell de Sant Ferran, in the town. It is, in fact, the largest castle in Europe! This is a popular place as you can walk (or jog) around its 3km perimeter. It offers excellent views over the sea. It is possible to look around the interior as well and there is a café inside.

Figueres Rambla is the main street in Figueres and like the Rambla in Barcelona it is a popular spot for meeting and sitting at one of the many pavement cafes to drink a coffee or eat lunch.

At the bottom of the Rambla is a painting on the floor, 'the Face of Dali' which is a popular homage to Salvador Dali.

The old streets around the Rambla are very pleasant to walk around and home to some great shopping.

Visit the Salvador Dali Museum

The Salvador Dali Theatre Museum, the Teatre-Museu Dali, is the largest surrealist object in the world. It was built by Dali on the ruins of a 19th century Theatre.

The building has a large glass dome and its edges are decorated by large egg shapes. It is, in its entirety, Dali's greatest work, and was created by Dali specifically to offer its visitors a unique visual experience.

On entering the museum the first area to visit is the courtyard and immediately you are struck by Salvador Dali's incredible imagination and surreal view on the world (if you hadn't already from the amazing exterior!).

In the courtyard a statue of a well-endowed female figure stands on a black Cadillac whilst the walls of this inner courtyard are decorated by golden mannequins.

The next room from here is known as the stage and is a huge room lit by the large glass sphere that you can see from the outside of the building. One wall is a huge window onto the courtyard and the other has a huge painting - from the very high ceiling to the floor. Another incredible space.

The rest of the museum contains many rooms with different collections of works and is a zany mix of exhibits. These cover a great range of his works from some of his earliest to some he created in the last years of his life.

These include: Port Alguer (1924), The Spectre of Sex-Appeal (1932), The Cosmic Athletes (1943) and Dawn, Noon, Afternoon and Evening (1979).

The museum also contains exhibits made specifically for the museum such as the Mae West Room and the Palace of the Wind.

Salvador Dali was born in Figueres and moved back here late in life. He is buried in a crypt in the museum. The museum is housed in the old theatre but Figueres suffered heavy bombing in the Spanish Civil war as it was the last Republican outpost to stand against Franco.

The theatre was badly damaged and remained a ruin for several decades before Dali bought it and converted it into the museum that we see today.

The museum is open from 10.30 to 18.00 hours from Oct to March and from 9.00 to 20.00 hours from April to September. It is closed on Mondays except in July, August and September.

Museums in Figueres

The Teatre-Museu Dali museum displays the great breadth of Salvador Dali's art (see above).

The Dali-Joies (Dali-Jewels) museum is a seperate museum in the Teatre Museu at Figueres and is home to a fascintating collection of jewels created by Dali.

The Museu de l'Emorrda contains some excellent art works.

The Museu de Joguets is a toy museum.

Where to visit near Figueres?

Salvador Dali fans should also visit the Casa-Museu Castell Gala Dali, in the village of Pubol NE of Girona. This is the house of Dali's wife with whom he had a colourful relationship. It is also where Dali lived when Gala died.

The Casa-Museu Salvador Dali, the House-museum Salvador Dali, at Portlligat near Cadaques is where Dali and Gala lived and is well worth a visit to see how this unusual couple lived. Also be sure to visit Cadaques itself which is where Dali once lived and which inspired some of his paintings.

Nearby Besalu is a magnificent medieval town with a large fortified bridge. Empuries is home to a large archaeological site with Greek and Roman ruins.

You can find more local travel ideas in the Girona guide and the Catalonia guide .

Photos of Figueres

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Map of Figueres and places to visit

Figueres places to visit.

Castello d'Empuries

Castello d'Empuries is an interesting medieval village with a huge church. It is a small distance inland of Roses.

Roses was an ancient Greek settlement and is now the biggest resort on the northern stretch of the Costa Brava.

Empuries is a fascinating archeological site containing a Greek and Roman colony

Besalu is a magnificent medieval town dominated by an 11th century fortified bridge.

Cadaqués is one of the most picturesque villages in Spain and nearby Portlligat is the home of the Casa-Museu Salvador Dali.

Portlligat is a quaint fishing village and home to the house of Salvador Dali which is well worth visiting.

...or see all our recommended places to visit in Catalonia

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Figueres, Spain Travel Guide: Discover Dalí and Catalonian Charm

Discover the best things to do in Figueres, Spain with this travel guide and explore Dalí’s birthplace. 

Figueres is most famous for the Dalí Theatre and Museum (it’s no wonder why) and as the city where the artist Salvador Dalí was born. 

Walking through the small city just west of the famous stretch of beaches in Costa Brava, it’s easy to spot the museum (and burial site) of Dalí, with its many large eggs contrasting the red facade in bold fashion.

There’s no getting around it – you’re probably visiting Figueres just to see the museum. But do yourself a favour and stick around for a while longer. There’s actually a small but rich collection of museums and historical sites to visit. And you’ll have easy access to Northern Catalonia’s best beaches and wineries. 

Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about discovering Figueres on your holiday in Spain .

Looking for a historic hotel in the heart of Figueres? I recommend staying at Duran Hotel & Restaurant .

Top 5 Things to Do in Figueres 

Tour the dalí theatre-museum.

Most holidaymakers plan a day trip (or weekend visit) to Figueres, Spain, to tour the Dalí Theatre-Museum . Rightfully so. It’s no accident that Salvador Dalí’s artwork (and tomb) are here. The building itself plays an important role in the history of the artist’s career, as he showcased many of his first pieces in the former theatre. Opened in the 1970s after years of renovation, the museum hosts an impressive collection of his very best works. In fact, many of the pieces are from his very own collection. Surrealism was at the core of Dalí’s artwork, so you can expect the museum to have some unusual (and unforgettable) exhibits. It delivers plenty of surprises and hosts enough original artwork to keep you entertained for hours.

Walking into the museum in Figueres is like entering another dimension in time. Seriously. The artist had a knack for capturing dream-like states and putting them on canvas, clothing, and sculptures. Highlights include the building itself (with giant eggs and gold figurines adorning the top) and a garden courtyard displaying the Rainy Taxi and its mannequin passengers.

Visit the Dalí Jewels Collection

It’s easy to miss the Dalí Jewels Collection, which is actually a continuation of the Dalí Museum in a separate building next door. Take the time to walk over, as your ticket gets you inside this gallery, too.

You’ll find sketches of the jewellery designs and actual pieces made from gemstones, gold, and coral. Go with an open mind and ask plenty of questions on your guided tour, as the annex is full of surprises.

Top Tip: Both the Jewels Collection and Dalí Theatre and Museum are closed on Mondays. Book a time slot in advance to visit the museums.

Hike Up to the Castell de Sant Ferran

Dalí and Figueres go hand in hand, but a few landmarks in the capital of Alt Empordà were here long before the famous artist was born. Hike up from the city centre and explore the massive castle and walk inside the fortress walls. Castell de Sant Ferran has a rich history and unique engineering design that played an important role in defending the city in the 1700s. The Republican leaders held their last meeting during the Spanish Civil War here, and the massive grounds held up to 6,000 people at a time.

Top Tip: Arrive here early, and you’ll likely be one of only a few visitors. Few historical landmarks in Spain are this well-preserved yet free of massive crowds.

Go Wine Tasting in Figueres

Figueres is located in the heart of Empordà, one of the lesser-known wine regions in Spain, but with some great spots to visit. That makes wine tasting a must when heading from Barcelona to Figueres. I recommend hiring a driver and visiting some wineries in the Empordà DO, a historical wine region dating back several decades.

El Celler d’en Marc in Costa Brava and Terra Remota are two stops along the DO Empordà wine route you’ll want to experience. Trust me.

Top Tip: Sample native grapes like Carinyena and Macabeu for the best examples of local red and white wine. 

Tap Into Your Inner Child at the Toy Museum of Catalonia

You can explore an enormous collection of toys at this museum which is home to thousands of dolls, vehicles, and puzzles.

Since 1982 the museum has been a popular stop for locals and tourists in Figueres, featuring toys from many famous Spanish figures, including Terenci Moix, Joan Brossa, and Salvador Dalí.

Top Tip: You won’t need much time here, but it’s a nice addition to a visit to the Dalí Museum. 

Brilliant Things to See & Do in Figueres

Visit the església de sant pere.

This iconic building is an important landmark in Figueres dating back to the 10th and 11th Centuries. Look around, and you’ll notice Romanesque and Gothic architecture inside and out.

The church survived centuries (and the Spanish Civil War) and was renovated after significant damage to the building in the 20th Century.

Top Tip: Stop by for another glimpse into the life of Salvador Dalí. The church hosted his baptism and funeral.

Go Beach Hopping Along Costa Brava

If you take a road trip from Barcelona or Girona to Figueres, you can head out for an afternoon of beach hopping just a short drive from the city centre. 

Platja de La Rubina, Platja de Can Comes, and Platja La Punta are three lovely golden sand beaches, all within about 30 minutes of Figueres.

Learn More About Catalonian History at the Museu de l’Empordà

Discover more of the artwork, artefacts, and history of Catalonia and Empordà at the Museu de l’Empordà. You can see much of the artwork in an hour or two at most, including pieces from Joaquin Sorolla, Pablo Gargallo, and (of course) Salvador Dalí.

Technical Museum of the Empordà

Another museum worth visiting on your trip to Figueres is the Technical Museum of the Empordà. As a writer, I (admittedly) have a soft spot for this one. It’s a collection of some of the most unique and incredible typewriters ever made. There are also some really old (and pretty cool) sewing machines, which together make up the thousands of old machines in this underrated museum. 

Must-Try Bars & Restaurants in Figueres

Sentits gastrobar.

Situated in a prime location in La Rambla de Figueres, Sentits Gastrobar is a perfect stop any time of day for people watching and enjoying a snack and refreshing drink in the heart of the city.

This is a perfect spot to land if you’re looking for a casual meal and a glass of wine or beer at a sidewalk cafe. Order a sandwich, share a few plates (the Gorgonzola flatbread and jamon are both  winners), and enjoy a relaxing afternoon in the buzzing city centre.

La Taverna del Barri Vell

If you’re looking for the best Catalonian cuisine in Figueres, head to La Taverna del Barri Vell and arrive with an appetite. Trust me. The vibe is relaxed, the menu changes frequently but never disappoints, and the seafood plates are worth coming back for a second time if you spend a few nights in Figueres.

El Motel (Hotel Empordà Restaurant)

A couple of the most famous restaurants in Figueres are in hotels. El Motel (Hotel Empordà Restaurant) is one of them and doesn’t disappoint.

The beautiful setting on a garden terrace sets the tone for a romantic meal at this popular local favourite for upscale dining. Expect classic fine dining service with careful attention to presentation and a lovely selection of local cheeses and wines between courses. 

Best Hotels in Figueres 

Hotel duran & restaurant.

Hotel Duran & Restaurant is a long-running hotel that’s stayed in the Duran family for over a century. The building is actually much older, as you’ll likely notice dining in the famous restaurant on site (which Dalí himself reportedly frequented.)

Rooms are small but comfortable, relatively modern, and soundproofed to ensure a good night’s sleep in the heart of Figueres. 

Hotel Restaurant Bon Retorn

Just outside of Figueres city centre is Hotel Restaurant Bon Retorn , a quiet boutique nestled in the Catalonian countryside next to beautiful gardens and an outdoor pool. Have lunch or dinner at the famous restaurant on-site, featuring seasonal Mediterranean cuisine using the finest locally sourced ingredients. 

Hotel Pirineos

The small and stylish boutique Hotel Pirineos is a centrally located hotel featuring a popular breakfast buffet with local Catalonian cuisine that’s perfect for filling up before exploring the museums and shops around town. 

Figueres: Practical Tips for Your Trip

How long to visit in figueres .

Many people visit the Dalí Museum, Figueres as a day trip from Girona or Barcelona. You can extend your stay and find plenty to do on a weekend visit to the capital of Alt Empordà.

Best Time to Visit Figueres

Figueres is a great location any time of year, but the summer months are best if you want to visit nearby Costa Brava and the many beautiful beaches. 

Where Should I Stay in Figueres? 

Figueres is a relatively small town, so staying in the city centre affords you the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do in Figueres.

How to Get to Figueres? 

You can take a train from Barcelona or Girona or book a guided tour and explore the city and Costa Brava for a perfect one-day itinerary in Spain.

Recommended Tours in Figueres 

• Figueres: Walking Tour with Dali Museum Fast-Track Entry
• From Barcelona: Girona, Figueres, and Cadaqués Day Trip
• Figueras & Dali Museum: Skip-the-Line Private Tour

Things to do in Figueres: Map

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Now You’ve Explored Figueres, Read These

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7 Remarkable Things To See and Do in Figueres, Spain

Figueres: the home of salvador dalí.

This quirky town is best known for being the birth place of Dalí, but you will find much more than Dali memories. Located just north of Girona, it makes the perfect day trip from Barcelona or Girona. Read on for the best things to do in Figueres.

Who was Salvador Dalí?

1. visit the dalí theatre-museum, 2. go back in time at the castell de sant ferran, 3. admire the esglesia de sant pere, 4. find dalí’s work in the streets, 5. see where dalí’s family resided, 6. take a break in la rambla, 7. take a picture with the figueres sign, should you book salvador dalí theatre-museum tickets in advance, how to get to figueres, how long to spend in figueres, best time to visit figueres.

Dalí was a Spanish Surrealist painter and printmaker, most famous for painting The Persistence of Memory (the melting clocks).

Dalí was born in Figueres in 1904, and started drawing lessons at age 10 before enrolling at the Madrid School of Fine Arts in his late teens. Dalí was then expelled and went on the visit Pablo Picasso to find some inspiration. Later Dalí went on to partner with filmakers and began designing jewellery and furniture. In 1974 Dalí then went on to complete one of his most important achievents: The Dalí Teatre-Museum.

What to see and do in Figueres

“Where, if not in my own town, should the most extravagant and solid of my work endure, where if not here?” – Dalí

This is one of the most immersive museums I have ever visited! If you like Dalí’s work, this is a must visit, given he designed the museum. The museum is made up of several floors and ascends in a circular manner, making it easy to navigate through the maze of artworks. It’s also worth noting, the building itself is a work of art. It’s hard to miss this red building with eggs on top.

Top tip: Make sure you don’t miss Dalí’s jewellery exhibit just beyond the gift shop!

Located a 20 minute walk away from the centre, you will find an 18th century military fortress. With a rich history and great view points, it’s well worth spending an hour or so here.

Castell de Sant Ferran offers a unique experience for those more adventurous. You can take a tour of the “The Cathedral of The Water”, starting with a trip around the fortress’s ditch in an off-road vehicle, followed with an exploration of the water tanks in a boat!

This church was where Dalí was baptised. Located just outside the Dalí museum, it is a peaceful place to stop (and cool down in the summer). It is also free to enter.

You will see an array of statues and sculptures while wondering around Figueres. There are two unique sculptures worth looking out for:

• La Cara de Dalí , located just off of Carrer de la Jonquera
• Monumento a Salvador Dalí , located in La Rambla

This building was the residence of the Dalí family, when the great Salvador was born. It’s worth noting they lived just at number 6, on the ground floor, where the Dalí family had a notary.

You will see a plaque on the outside to commemorate the birth of Dalí in 1904. (You can see his tombstone in his museum.

If you want to find out more about Dalí and better understand his work, it is worth checking out the la Casa natal d’en Salvador Dalí museum.

This small square is located in the centre of the town. This is a lovely place to sit and watch the world go by. La Rambla is also surrounded by lots of shops and restaurants, so there is a lot going on here.

Just off of Carrer Canigo, you will find les lletres se la ciutat Figueres. The letters make for the perfect insta worthy photo.

FAQ about Figueres

I would recommend booking tickets in advance, especially if visiting during peak season. When I was there people were only able to purchase tickets for several hours later.

Figueres is the perfect day trip from Barcelona or Girona. The easiest way to get to Figueres from Barcelona or Girona is via the train . The train runs regularly and the station is a walk away from Figueres centre.

You can also reach Figueres by car via the AP-7.

A day is more than enough to see all that Figueres has to offer. It is also possible to visit both Figueres and Girona in a day from Barcelona, if you are limited on time.

The best time to visit Figueres is during the spring and early autumn. The weather is mild and you will find fewer crowds. Where as in the summers it can be very hot, and the winters can be chilly.

Other Spanish Hidden Gems:

Zaragoza Travel Guide

How to Visit the Monasterio de Piedra

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Looks like a cool little day trip kind of town! All the art would be fun to find around the city.

Definitely a fun way to spend the day if you find yourself in the area!

I loved Figueres and the Dali museum. The artwork visible from the streets was also a treat.

I love Dali. This is going on my list 🙂

The town certainly embraces their claim to fame -Dali. It looks like an interesting place to spend a day or two.

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Figueres Holidays & Travel Guide – Top Things to Do & See

Figueres  is a famous town in  Costa Brava  and is the capital of  Alt Emporda , located on the north eastern part of Spain, about 20 km. from the border between France and Spain, about 150 km. from Barcelona Airport and 49 km. from Girona Airport. Figueres was the  birthplace  of the famous artist  Salvador Dali .

Table of Contents

What to Expect?

Figueres is a charming town known for its unique art and culture. It is the birthplace of Salvador Dalí, one of the most important artists of the 20th century, and the town boasts the Dalí Theatre-Museum, one of the most visited museums in Spain.

Figueres is famous for its culture and leisure attractions with fairs, local festivals and gastronomy. The  historical centre of Figueres is worth a visit and see with its outstanding architectural heritage.

The  Dali Theatre-Museum  (where Dali is entombed, is the main attraction) is the most famous spot as well as the other museums such as the  Toy Museum of Catalonia , the  Museum of Emporda  and the  Emporda Technical Museum .

In addition, the parish church of Sant Pere  and the  castle-fortress of Sant Ferran  is worth a visit and see.

Figueres hosts one of the best  cycling and walking routes  in Costa Brava. Figueres is also the birthplace of the  sardana  that is the traditional  regional dance of Catalonia .

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Things to do & see in figueres….

Things to do and see in Figueres are endless. Majority of the best things to do and see in Costa Brava are listed in here.

Popular attractions and sights in Figueres include;

• The historical centre of Figueres,
• a stroll along the Rambla, its principal thoroughfare, always lively and flanked by attractive neoclassical and modernist buildings,
• the Dali Theatre-Museum,
• the Toy Museum of Catalonia,
• the Museum of Emporda,
• the Emporda Technical Museum,
• the parish church of Sant Pere,
• the castle-fortress of Sant Ferran,
• cycling and hiking.

Top Attractions & Sights in Figueres for you…

The historical centre of figueres.

The historical center of Figueres is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to this charming Catalan city. As the birthplace of Salvador Dalí and home to the renowned Dalí Theatre-Museum , Figueres is a hub of artistic and cultural activity. However, the city also boasts a rich history that can be explored in its historic center.

The center of Figueres is characterized by narrow streets lined with centuries-old buildings, many of which have been beautifully preserved. One of the most prominent structures is the Sant Ferran Castle , a massive 18th-century fortress that dominates the city’s skyline. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle and explore its various rooms and courtyards.

The Plaça de l’Ajuntament , or City Hall Square, is another highlight of the historic center. This elegant square is surrounded by a number of important buildings, including the City Hall, the Casa Pujol, and the Casa Puig-Soler. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the square and take in its impressive architecture.

Another must-visit attraction in the historic center is the Church of Saint Peter , a Gothic-style church that dates back to the 14th century. The church features stunning stained glass windows, a beautiful rose window, and a stunning altarpiece. Visitors can attend mass or simply admire the church’s intricate details.

For those interested in local history, the Figueres Museum is a great place to learn more about the city’s past. The museum’s collection includes artifacts from various periods in Figueres’ history, including prehistoric, Roman, and medieval artifacts. Visitors can also see a collection of Salvador Dalí’s early works, which provide a unique glimpse into the artist’s early development.

Rambla de Figueres

This tree-lined pedestrian street is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. It’s lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and is a great place to relax and people-watch.

Dali Theatre Museum

The Dali Theatre Museum is a must-see attraction in Figueres for art lovers and fans of Salvador Dali. The museum is housed in the former Municipal Theatre, which was destroyed during the Spanish Civil War and later renovated by Dali himself to create a unique and surreal space that showcases his art.

Visitors can expect to see a variety of Dali’s works, including paintings, sculptures, and installations. The museum also features a room dedicated to his jewelry designs and a crypt where Dali is buried.

The museum’s highlights include the Mae West room, which is shaped like the face of the actress and contains various pieces of furniture and artwork that form her features. Another highlight is the Rainy Taxi installation, which features a taxi with mannequins inside that appear to be submerged in water.

The museum is open year-round, but visitors should check the hours of operation before visiting as they can vary by season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the museum, but it is recommended to book in advance to avoid long lines.

The castle-fortress of Sant Ferran

This massive fortress is the largest monument in Catalonia, and one of the largest in Europe. It was built in the 18th century and is an impressive example of military architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle, which includes a walk along the ramparts and a visit to the underground tunnels.

The parish Church of Saint Peter

This beautiful church is located in the heart of the town and is one of the most important examples of Gothic architecture in Catalonia. It was built in the 14th century and features a stunning rose window and a beautiful altarpiece.

Toy Museum of Catalonia

This museum is a fun attraction for visitors of all ages. It houses an impressive collection of toys from different periods, including dolls, board games, and toy cars. The museum is housed in a beautiful building and has interactive displays and workshops for children.

Museum of l’Emporda

The Museum of l’Emporda is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and history. Located in the heart of Figueres, this museum showcases the cultural heritage of the Emporda region of Catalonia through a collection of more than 20,000 works of art.

The museum’s collection includes pieces from various periods of art history, including Romanesque, Gothic, Renaissance, Baroque, and Modernism. Visitors can admire a wide range of art, from sculptures and paintings to ceramics and jewelry. In addition to the permanent collection, the museum also hosts temporary exhibitions that feature works from renowned artists.

The Museum of l’Emporda is housed in a historic building that has been beautifully restored to preserve its original character. The museum’s interior is spacious and well-lit, making it a pleasant place to explore. Visitors can take a guided tour or browse the exhibits on their own.

Cycling &  Hiking

Figueres is a great destination for those who love cycling and hiking, thanks to its beautiful natural surroundings and well-maintained trails. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

• Greenway: The Greenway is a 55 km cycle and hiking route that runs along the old railway line from Olot to Sant Feliu de Guixols. This route is perfect for families and casual riders, as it is mostly flat and traffic-free.
• Volcanic Route: The Volcanic Route is a challenging 100 km cycle and hiking route that takes you through the stunning Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. This route is suitable for experienced riders and hikers and offers incredible views of the surrounding landscape.
• Sant Ferran Castle: This historic castle is located just outside Figueres and is accessible by bike or on foot. The castle offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and the nearby trails are perfect for hiking and cycling.
• Montgrí Massif: The Montgrí Massif is a beautiful mountain range that offers a range of hiking and cycling trails. The area is home to a variety of flora and fauna, and the views from the top of the mountain are truly breathtaking.
• Coastal Route: The Coastal Route is a popular cycle and hiking route that takes you along the beautiful Costa Brava coastline. The route is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea.

Daily Tours & Excursions

Food & drink.

Figueres offers visitors a range of delicious food and drink options to suit all tastes and budgets. Local specialties include paella, tapas, and seafood, while international cuisine such as Italian and Chinese are also available. In the city center, visitors can find cozy cafes and restaurants, where they can enjoy a relaxing meal or a drink. For a more lively atmosphere, the city’s bars and nightclubs offer a range of cocktails and music.

Figueres has a variety of shops, from small boutiques to large department stores. Visitors can find everything from designer clothing to handmade crafts and souvenirs. The city is known for its local markets, where visitors can purchase fresh produce and traditional Spanish goods. The most famous market is the Mercat del Ram, which takes place in the spring.

Figueres has a vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and nightclubs. The city’s nightlife is centered around the Old Town, where visitors can find traditional Spanish bars and trendy nightclubs. The city also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, where visitors can enjoy live music and entertainment.

Figueres offers a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Visitors can choose to stay in the city center or in the surrounding areas. There are also a number of vacation rental properties available, which are ideal for families or larger groups.

Getting There

If you’re traveling from further away, you can fly into the Girona-Costa Brava Airport, which is located approximately 50 kilometers from Figueres. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Figueres. Alternatively, you can fly into Barcelona El Prat Airport, which is approximately 140 kilometers away from Figueres, and then take a train or bus to Figueres.

Figueres is well-connected by road to the surrounding cities and towns. If you are coming from Barcelona, take the AP-7 motorway towards Girona and then continue on the N-II road to Figueres. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Figueres is also easily accessible by train. The Renfe train service operates several daily trains from Barcelona and Girona to Figueres. The journey from Barcelona takes approximately 2 hours, and from Girona, it takes around 25 minutes. From the train station, it is just a short walk to the city center.

Another option is to take a bus to Figueres. The Sarfa bus company operates several daily services from Barcelona and Girona to Figueres. The journey from Barcelona takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, and from Girona, it takes around 40 minutes. The bus station is located in the city center, so it’s easy to get around once you arrive.

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28th Figueres Jazz Festival

24/05/2024 - 08/06/2024, the dalí route, 25/05/2024 - 31/12/2024, figueres food and wine route, 26/05/2024 - 31/12/2024, saint peter opens its doors for us, 01/06/2024 - 31/12/2024, figueres unmissable, don’t miss these activities during your stay in figueres.

Salvador Dalí’s Museum Birth House

Sant Ferran Castle

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Figueres

Things to do in figueres.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

31. Parroquia De La Immaculada I Sant Pau

32. Plaça Del Gra

33. Casa Salleres

34. Monumento a Jaime I El Conquistador

35. Film Escape Room

36. Kiwi Escape room

37. Family Events Figueres

38. La Sonora

39. Planeta Magic

40. Anna Personal Guide

41. Vinalium

42. figueres-vilafant.

43. Qualia Centre Wellness

44. Estanc10

45. Surrealista

46. estación figueres, 47. estarriol bus.

48. Morrigan Figueres

49. El Federal Cafe

50. Salvador Dali Tour

51. The Salvador Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres

52. Belladona

53. Empordà Emotions

54. On The Trail

What travellers are saying.

• 1.1 History
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.2 By rail
• 4 Get around
• 5.1 Museums
• 5.2 Landmarks
• 6.1 City festivals
• 6.2 Other events
• 6.3 Cycling
• 6.4.1 Long-range
• 7.1 Dalí souvenirs
• 7.2 General shopping
• 7.3.1 Chocolates and pastries
• 7.3.2 Regional items
• 7.3.3 Wines
• 8.1 Restaurants
• 10.1 Budget
• 10.2 Mid-range
• 10.3 Splurge
• 11 Stay safe

Figueres [dead link] is a small city in Catalonia , Spain with a population of 40,000. It is the seat of the Alt Empordà county in the Girona Province and has a wealth of history spanning many centuries that has been preserved and shown in several museums in the area and in the compact Old Town. Being the last major town before the Spanish/French border, it serves as a fantastic base to explore the upper Empordá region that is awash in great food, wines, and beaches that represent the Catalan culture. It is a stage in the Catalan Way of St. James .

Understand [ edit ]

The city's main attraction is the world famous museum of native son, Salvador Dalí . After the Prado in Madrid , it is the most visited museum in all of Spain. It is often seen as part of a day-trip from Barcelona or the packaged hotels of Costa Brava .

But beyond the museum, Figueres can be a pleasant place to spend a night or two. The town, much like Girona, is a relaxed alternative to Barcelona with cafés on side streets, and a compact Old Town core. The Empordà region in general will appeal to those interested in the history and/or burgeoning viticulture and gastronomy of Northern Catalonia. Figueres works well as a base for day trips to these destinations. Figueres is also 15 minutes by car or 25 minutes by train from the beaches of the Costa Brava.

The name of the town means 'fig trees' as they used to grow in great abundance around the area. Local youth often refer to the town as 'Figui' for short.

History [ edit ]

Figueres descended from two Roman towns, Juncària and Figàries, but the establishment of the town really started to happen in the 10th century as stated in records from the Sant Pere Monastery that was located where the Sant Pere church is today. As it was not an outpost border town in the Marca Hispanica (such as neighboring Besalú or Peralada), it was of little significance until it was made a Royal Town in 1267 and then much later, when the Sant Ferran castle was built from 1753 to 1766.

Once the castle was finished, fortunes changed a great deal for Figueres as it became the supply base for the castle. The population grew and it started its course towards being the major town of the region, despite occupation by Napoleon's forces from 1808–1814. Between 1831 and 1840, the Rambla was created by covering a dry riverbed, and became a center for the town. The shade trees that stand on the Rambla were planted in 1864. In 1877, the railway station was opened. In 1904, the town's most famous resident, one Salvador Domingo Felipe Jacinto Dalí i Domènech was born.

The Spanish Civil War (1936-1939) was quite hard on the town. The castle became the last outpost for Republican Spain and Franco's forces bombed the town with great ferocity. As was the case with a lot of the surrounding area, many structures were lost in the war, including the main theater, which stood in ruin for several decades.

Upon attaining critical and financial success around the world, Dalí bought the old theater in his home town and converted it in to the museum that we see today, and which is a major draw of tourism to the town.

Talk [ edit ]

As Figueres is in Catalonia and Catalonia is an autonomous part of Spain, everybody in Figueres can speak Spanish , albeit to varying degrees. Although Catalan was banned by the Franco regime and Spanish was the only language, the older generation above 60, when speaking Spanish, will often speak a form of "Spatalan", which is mostly Spanish but with a lot of Catalan tossed in. It can be difficult to understand at times for foreigners. Catalan is as separate a language from Spanish as French and Italian are. It is not a Spanish dialect.

Northern Catalan, which is spoken here, is strongly influenced by French through the interchange with French and Catalan speakers across the border . Such dishes as 'pa amb tomaquet' (bread with tomato) become 'pa amb tomate' with a soft 'uh' sound at the end. There are many more examples and one of the most difficult is when they say words that end with 'o' and say it with a long 'u' sound. If you make the effort to say neighboring town names in Catalan, make sure you understand the pronunciation and if you say Barcelona pronouncing the Castillian 'th' sound for the 'c', people will assume that you are speaking Spanish.

The generation under 35 will generally speak some if not a good deal of English and French. Some people may speak a little Italian and oddly enough, there is a large Russian-speaking community in Figueres.

Get in [ edit ]

By plane [ edit ]

Girona Costa Brava Airport ( GRO  IATA ) has budget flights by Ryanair. It's 13 km south of that city: either take the local bus downtown then the train to Figueres, or the Barcelona airport bus which calls here then in Girona and Figueres.

Barcelona El Prat Airport ( BCN  IATA ) has a much greater choice of flights. Take the direct bus to Figueres, or go downtown for trains.

By rail [ edit ]

Four high speed international trains run daily from Barcelona Sants via Girona , taking 55 min to Figures Vilafant. They continue north to Perpignan and Narbonne, then fan out to Paris, Lyon and Marseille. Reservations are compulsory.

AVE fast domestic trains run every 30 min from Barcelona Sants, likewise taking 55 min via Girona to Figueres Vilafant.

Rodalies are the regional trains. R11 runs hourly from Barcelona Sants taking 90 min via Girona, then continues north via Figueres local station and multiple other stops to Portbou and Cerbère across the border. Until the high speed line opened in 2010 this was the railway route from France and you can still come this way.

By bus [ edit ]

The bus station is directly across Plaça de l'Estació from the local train station with regular connections to Barcelona and other destinations in Catalonia.

Get around [ edit ]

All the sites for the vast majority of tourists going to Figueres are easily reached on foot, and there are plenty of benches and public spaces for a rest in the shade if one gets tired while walking around.

For those looking to travel outside of Figueres to smaller, historic towns, castles, restaurants, or wineries, there are several car rental offices (Europcar, Enterprise, Avis) next to the train station, although it is strongly advised to book ahead online to get better rates than just showing up.

See [ edit ]

Museums [ edit ].

Landmarks [ edit ]

• 42.2665 2.9619 6 The Face of Dalí ( Directly at the bottom of the Rambla ). As an homage to their native son, the town of Figueres placed a surrealist tribute to him at the base of the Rambla. His face is stretched out and distorted when seen flat on the ground, but when viewed in the convex mirror next to it, it appears correct. Anyone who arrives from the train or bus station will pass this on the way to the museum and it makes for a free photo opportunity and introduction to the world of Dalí.  
• Figueres Old Town Streets ( To the North and South of the Rambla ). Figueres was settled along a river aptly named the Riera de Figueres. The boundaries of this river formed the core of the town that grew a good deal once construction on the aforementioned castle took place. In the early 19th century, the river was covered and became what is today the Rambla, which explains why the Rambla is such a central part to the town and a haven for those wanting to sit in the shade of the massive trees that line it. The streets retain their old charm and while not as historic as the pedestrian areas in Barcelona or Girona, Figueres is quite pleasant to walk around with any number of big brands shops mixed in with local businesses. Depending on the time of the year, there are often fairs or local vendors selling in the Rambla and main squares in the area, which provide additional entertainment.  

There is an informal but large vintage and classic car museum on the road from Figueres to Empuriabrava-beautiful cars some fully restored and some for sale going back to the 1910s.

Do [ edit ]

City festivals [ edit ].

Every town in Spain, no matter what the size has a day of celebration for their patron saint known as the 'fiesta mayor' in Castellano or 'festa major' in Catalan. They are a celebration of the town with events that are free to the public such as concerts, art shows, and theater performances. While they make the centers very crowded, they are one of the most lively times to visit a town in Spain. Figueres happens to have two of these as well as 'parties of the street':

• Festa Major de la Santa Creu On the 3rd of May.
• Festa de Sant Baldiri On the 20th of May.
• Festa Major de Sant Pere On the 29th of June

Other events [ edit ]

• Festival Acústica A mostly free acoustic music festival at the end of August each year. It takes place in various squares and streets around the center of town.

Cycling [ edit ]

The Pirinexus and the EuroVelo EV8 long distance bike routes runs near the city, connected to Figueres by route 10

Hiking [ edit ]

Long-range [ edit ].

• Catalan Way of St. James from El Port de la Selva to Montserrat (Spain) to Alcarrás passes the city.

Buy [ edit ]

Dalí souvenirs [ edit ].

For anyone who is in the market for Dalí knickknacks, Figueres is the place to find them.

• Tot Art , Carrer de Llers, 6 . Surrealist souvenirs galore and many other touristic items related to Dalí.  
• Art Surrealista , Carrer de Sant Pere, 23 ( Across from the St. Pere church ). A number of Dalí souvenirs as well as Surrealist-themed works of art.  

General shopping [ edit ]

It is quite common for the people living in the south of France to visit Figueres for shopping purposes as the taxes are lower than in France. Because of this and the large tourism pull due to the museums and beaches, a great number of large brands have shops in Figueres including: Zara, Benetton, La Coste, Pull & Bear, and Women's Secret. While not the level of shopping one finds in Barcelona, the selection is quite decent overall and for those who require larger sizes in clothing and shoes, it is often the case that they can be found easier in Figueres than in Barcelona.

Local shopping [ edit ]

Figueres also has a number of older, locally owned stores that haven't been swept away by the tide of massive chain stores.

Chocolates and pastries [ edit ]

• La formigueta , Carrer Sant Pau, 8 . A fun shop with a wide selection of teas and chocolates.  
• Forn la barceloneta , Carrer de la Muralla, 21 . An old shop with a large selection of local pastry specialties, especially during Christmas time.  
• Pastisseria Serra Lacasa , Plaça de la Adjustment, 6 . A traditional shop with sweets, chocolates, and pastries typical to Catalonia.  

Regional items [ edit ]

• Fàbrega Ceràmiques , La Rambla ( Lower part of the Rambla ). Ceramics that are quite typical of the Empordà region. The shop stocks most everything that there is. For those wishing for a larger selection, go to La Bisbal.  
• Rosa , Carrer de la Jonquera, 4 . Very touristic, but for someone looking to buy items that are typical to Catalonia, they carry most everything.  
• Ymbert Dunjo , La Rambla, 32 ( At the bottom of the Rambla on the south side ), ☏ +34 972 50 45 29 . An overall general store with electrical, painting, kitchen, and other general household items. They also happen to stock a good supply of Catalan items such as steel paella pans along with the portable gas burners for them, porrós (the wine pitcher you pour in to your mouth), and setrills (an olive oil container) as well as others. A good alternative to more touristic stores.  

Wines [ edit ]

• Celler de Can Nou , Elx, 6 - Lateral - Ctra. de La Jonquera , ☏ +34 972 500 897 . A bit out of the center, but still very easy to walk to, they offer a good selection of Spanish wines overall. They also have a selection of the higher-end Catalan wines from the area.  
• Vinos Salip , Carrer de la Jonquera, 6 . A shop with some local wines, but more alcohols.  

Eat [ edit ]

Local Catalan specialties include: oxtail soup, butifarra, fuet, seafood, paella, and of course gaspatxo. If 'patatas de Olot' are on a menu, make sure to give them a try: they are a slice of potato wrapped around ground meat and fried. While not terribly healthy, they are incredibly delicious. There is also an onion from the Figueres area called the 'ceba de Figueres' which is sought after because it is a great deal sweeter than a regular white onion. It can be eaten raw in a number of dishes.

Avoid all the restaurants along Carrer de Jonquera from Perelada to Muralla. While edible, the restaurants on this stretch of street make sub-par food for beach tourists who don't want to walk far from the Dalí Museum. They are not a good representation of the food from the region.

Restaurants [ edit ]

• La Botiga del Pa I , Carrer de Sant Pou, 19 . A proper café with a wide selection of sweet items and breads, as well as comfortable seating, in a relaxed environment.  
• La Botiga del Pa II , Rambla, 3 ( lower end of Rambla ). 07:30-14:00, 16:30-21:30 . Nice pastisseria; wide selection of bakery and confectionery. Good coffee; several sorts of branded tea, variety of fresh juices. Quite popular in the noon time. Personnel don't speak English.  
• La Cabaña ( N-11 Kilometer 760, exit Highway Number 3 in the direction of Figueres ). Extremely difficult to find. It is right off the N-11 north of town, next to a well-known "puti club" in the area called, Moonight. You need a car to get there. The interior is drab and uninspired. The exterior seating is on plastic chairs literally next to the highway. But the sliced jamón the serve is undeniably the best around and they have a selection of local and inexpensive wines. Diners will most likely be surrounded by a mix of southern French and Figuerans devouring large plates of jamón that are quite reasonably priced. €15-25 .  
• Calid , Pep Ventura, 13 ( off Pujada del Castell ), ☏ +34 972 67 83 48 . An excellent local restaurant with a daily prix fix menu with dishes from the area including good gaspatxo in the summer. A 2-3 minute walk from the Dalí Museum. Fills up fast after 14:00.  
• [dead link] Crêperie Bretonne , Carrer Cap de Creus ( behind the Dali Theater, to the right from the theater's ticket office ). Dali-inspired interiors: creative but simple; can be found by a painted old VW Beetle. Almost empty in the noon time as Catalans eat around 13:30-14:00. They have a sister restaurant in Girona which is admittedly a great deal cooler and definitely worth checking out if you like this one.  
• Filosofia , Carrer Tints, 10 ( off of Perelada ). A good place to generally grab a drink, but also with good dishes, typical of the area during lunch.  
• Pans & Company , La Rambla, 32 ( at the bottom of the Rambla ). A chain sandwich shop with a good selection of affordable items for lunch, ranging from traditional Catalan types to others.  
• Shang Hai , Corriol de les Bruixes ( intersection of De la Jonquera and Peralada ). The more well-known of the two Chinese restaurants in Figueres.  

Drink [ edit ]

Bars [ edit ].

Plaça del Sol is the main "scene" of Figueres at night. There are a number of bars along this square which is really just a parking lot with the town library on it as well. Some of the bars allow smoking and some not. Overall, the offer is much the same with one bar usually being the "hot bar" of that particular month. True to the name, it's a much more popular place in the summer. The other option is, Plaça de les Patates, which is a great deal more laid back.

• Bar Gotic , Plaça de les Patates . Cool place on the Plaça de les Patates with a great terrace area as well as a cool interior and relatively cheap drinks.  
• Cafe Federal , Plaça del Sol . A decent bar in the area, next to other, lesser bars.  
• Cervecería Venecia , Sant Domènec, 4 . As the name implies, a primarily beer bar with over 100 different beers to choose from. As with many places, serves tapas as well. Opens till late in the night  

There has been an extensive history of wine cultivation in the area around Figueres dating back 2,600 years. There is a resurgence of viticulture in the region, and is creating some of the most noteworthy wines in all of Catalonia, especially for the price.

As Figueres is the seat of Alt Empordà, it also houses the offices for the local DO Empordà region which can be found at Avinguda Marignane, 2. The office can provide more information, although the website is extremely helpful in locating wineries.

For those wishing to make a tour of the wineries, you will definitely need a car as they are in far-flung villages around the area. Closest to Figueres are the wineries of La Vinyeta and Perelada . The former is a very new, modern winery started by a young winemaker who is making some of the most exciting wines in the region neat the village of Mollets. The later is a much more established winery that sits next to the castle of Perelada, which is a small town about five minutes by car from Figueres. Their wines are rather pricey, but they have grown to carry a high pedigree whether deserved or not. Perelada also charges for tastings, which is rather uncommon.

Outside of these two regions, a drive up to the village Cantallops is recommended as in addition to being a delightful town, it houses the wineries of Vinyes dels Aspres and Masia Serra. Both of these wineries are making splendid wines, especially the sweet Garnatxas (Grenache) and Moscatells. You will need to call Masia Serra before visiting though as it is rarely open to the public.

Another village worth visiting for wine is Capmany which has Arché Pagès and about 10 other wineries.

Heading in the other direction, one can go to Vilajuïga which has Empordàlia which makes the Sinols brand. Additionally, they also have wine 'a granel' or in bulk that is of high quality and can be bought for less than €1.50 a liter.

The local wine shops in Figueres sell all these brands for those wishing to take back something from Figueres that isn't related to Dalí.

Sleep [ edit ]

Figueres provides a variety of hotels, with rates much cheaper than in Barcelona, but generally comparable to Girona. In addition to actual hotel and hostel establishments there are a great many 'masias' in the area which are farm houses that were converted over to rural guest houses. The prices can be quite good and the accommodations very nice, although the proprietors rarely speak English and thus they can be tricky to find at times.

Budget [ edit ]

• Hostal Galicia , Avd. Perpinyà, 34 , ☏ +34 972 501 566 . A basic but well-priced and clean hotel just off the main road, similar in comfort level to Los Ángeles  
• Hostel Los Ángeles , Carrer de la Barceloneta, 10 , ☏ +34 972 51 06 61 . Basic yet clean rooms and one of the more affordable options in Figueres with wifi available.  
• Hotel Rambla , Rambla, 33 , ☏ +34 972 67 60 20 . Right on the Rambla in the center of town. Modern and fine overall. Generally considered to be a more basic hotel.  
• Hotel Sidorme - Figueres , Ctra. de Roses, Poligon Vilatenim Sud , ☏ +34 972 50 15 87 . A good distance from the center and better for those with cars, this is a very new hotel with very cheap rates on simple, but clean rooms. Part of the larger, Sidorme chain of hotels in Spain.  

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Hotel Bon Retorn , Carretera Nacional II a Km.3 , ☏ +34 972 504623 . South of town, it requires visitors to have their own car.  
• Hotel Duran , Carrer Lausaca, 5 , ☏ +34 972 501 250 . Convenient to the center and just off the Rambla, rooms start in the mid-€50 range if booked in advance.  
• Hotel Figueres Parc , Ctra. N II-a Km.9, 17730 Hostalets de Llers , ☏ +34 972 505151 . A very modern hotel a couple kilometers north of town. More targeted towards those with a car, but is a very classy and upscale establishment.  
• Hotel Plaza Inn , Carrer Pujada del Castell 14 , ☏ +34 972 514 540 . Just up the street from the Dalí Museum and quite central overall. Generally considered decent overall for the price with a lot of surrealist art decorating the place.  
• Hotel President , Avda. Salvador Dalí, 82 , ☏ +34 972 501 700 . A very modern remnant of 1970s construction that gets mixed reviews, but it generally thought to be clean overall. Very central all the local attractions though.  
• Hotel Ronda , Avda. Salvador Dalí, 17 , ☏ +34 972 50 39 11 . Very much in the center, but right on the main road through town, although it is rather quiet at night.  

Splurge [ edit ]

• Hotel Empordà , Avda. Salvador Dalí i Domènech,170 , ☏ +34 972 50 05 62 . Definitely one of the nicest hotels in town, but also rather expensive. Convenient to those with cars as it is just off the main road through town, but is out of the immediate center. Excellent restaurant though.  
• Hotel Trave , Ctra. Olot , ☏ +34 972 500 616 . A three-star affair just outside the center on the road to Olot. Better suited to those with cars, but definitely one of the higher-end hotels in the area.  

Stay safe [ edit ]

Figueres is overall, a very safe town. Violent crime is extremely rare and most issues resolve around petty theft when they happen. As is the case in many places, beware of crowded areas and events as pickpockets can frequent these venues.

In the summer, it can get quite hot as is typical with coastal Catalonia. Make sure to drink plenty of water and cover your head if sensitive to heavy direct sunlight.

In the winter, it can be quite cold at times. While snow is exceptionally rare in Figueres proper, driving on the E-15 or the AP-7 north to France could very well require chains or snow tires near La Jonquera at certain times due to the pass often receiving a decent amount of snow. Likewise, driving west from Figueres, the mountain roads climb in elevation quite rapidly and snow is common, so plan car trips accordingly.

Connect [ edit ]

As of Jan 2024, Figueres and its approach highways have 5G from all Spanish carriers.

Go next [ edit ]

• Barcelona - The capital and main city of Catalonia with a wealth of attractions.
• Besalú - A very old town to the West of Figueres that has a historic bridge.
• Blanes - A beach resort with two botanical gardens and modernist buildings is easily reachable by train.
• Cadaqués - A nice seaside town that also houses one of Dalí's other homes for those wanting to see more Dalí history.
• Cantallops - A compact mountain town with two wineries and some good restaurants.
• Cap de Creus - The Eastern end of Spain. Incredibly windy, but worth a trip to experience it, the lighthouse and the view out the sea.
• Castellfollit de la Roca - Further West than Besalú, but worth the trip as it's a striking town perched along a narrow sliver of rock jutting out in to a canyon.
• Costa Brava - The coastal region that radiates out from Figueres and Girona starting at Blanes in the south and ending at the French border. Very popular in summer and renowned for its beaches, both sandy and stony.
• Girona - While most people will do a day trip from Girona or Barcelona to Figueres, one can also do the opposite and make days trips to the wonderful town of Girona from Figueres.
• Torroella de Montgrí - A pleasant old town that was once the capital of the Empúries kingdom. Now it sits at the base of a mountain that goes up to a castle. A good day hike for those inclined.

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Figueras travel information and video

Holiday information, facts, photos and video about figueras, towns and areas, reviews for figueras.

I'd been to Figueras before and not really explored the city but it's underrated. We had some great food here and the Dali museum is worth a trip on a bad weather day.

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Best places to visit in spain.

Spain's dynamic metropolises, breathtaking beaches and cultural offerings are second to none, making the country an undisputed stop on many travelers' European vacation itineraries. With so many varied destinations, each with its own celebrated sites and unique hidden gems, it may be hard deciding which cities are worth visiting. U.S. News factored in sights, culture, seasonality and expert opinion to come up with the best places to visit in Spain for all types of travelers – from city slickers to beach bums to outdoorsy types. Have an opinion? Vote below to influence next year's ranking.

Santiago de Compostela

Costa brava, san sebastian, canary islands.

In addition to being one of Europe's top travel destinations , Barcelona is without a doubt Spain's cultural capital. The Catalonian city's urban sprawl is dotted with Antoni Gaudí's whimsical architecture, including Basílica de la Sagrada Família and Park Güell, as well as museums carrying world-renowned artists, such as the Picasso Museum. You can also explore centuries-old neighborhoods like Barri Gòtic, which dates back to the Roman Empire. Don't forget to take advantage of the city's equally magnificent outdoor offerings, too, including La Barceloneta beach.

The final stop on an ancient pilgrimage route called Camino de Santiago (or Saint James' Way), this medieval city in northwestern Spain attracts hundreds of thousands of travelers every year. With centuries-old architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, Santiago de Compostela is an ideal destination for history buffs and culture hounds. First up on your to-do list should be a tour of the awe-inspiring Santiago de Compostela Cathedral, a massive Romanesque structure said to house the remains of Saint James the apostle. Then, take advantage of the city's number of beautiful parks, museums, restaurants and nightlife.

You won't want to skip this romantic Spanish city about 55 miles northwest of Madrid on your next trip to Spain. See for yourself what makes Segovia special while you stroll through the enchanting Plaza Mayor, home to a mix of restaurants and shops, or soar high above the city on a hot air balloon ride. Can't-miss sights include the two-tiered Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the world's best-preserved Roman aqueducts, and Alcázar De Segovia, a massive, fairy-tale fortress dating back to the 12th century.

Stretching from the idyllic resort town of Blanes all the way to the French border, this coastal region in northeastern Spain offers miles of shoreline along the Mediterranean Sea. After spending the day with your toes in the sand at one of Costa Brava's gorgeous cove beaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the region's many seaside restaurants. But Costa Brava is not just for beach bums. Whether you're touring the unique Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres or exploring the Santa Clotilde Gardens in Lloret de Mar, Costa Brava is a can't-miss destination on any Spain itinerary.

The UNESCO-listed historic center of Cordoba is the stuff of Spanish dreams. Its winding, compact cobblestone streets are lined with whitewashed inns, shops, restaurants and homes that feature stunning Andalusian accents, including wrought-iron balconies, bright blue planters and painted archways. Visitors can also enjoy all of the city's famous historical sites, such as the Castle of the Christian Monarchs and the Mosque-Cathedral of Cordoba, commonly referred to as the Great Mosque, which is one of the best-preserved structures in Spain.

Mallorca's smaller sister island is a solid option for travelers wanting to visit the Balearic Islands without the crowds of Ibiza and Mallorca. Menorca offers the same kind of jaw-dropping beaches (think: white sands overlooking clear turquoise waters) you'd expect to find on other Balearic Islands – travelers say Cala Mitjana, Cala Macarelleta, Cala Turqueta and Cala Pregonda are some of the island’s most popular shorelines. You'll also discover several architectural marvels throughout Menorca. Head to Ciutadella (the island's original capital) to see old-world structures like the Catedral de Menorca and the Convent of Sant Agusti, which houses the Diocesan Museum.

Travelers who want to experience small-town Spain without venturing far from a big city will love visiting Toledo. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, which sits 45 miles southwest of Madrid, is breathtaking thanks to its location on a hilltop overlooking the Tagus River and its historical architecture. For the best views, visit Mirador del Valle, a scenic overlook boasting breathtaking panoramic vistas. Then, get a sense of Toledo's rich history by checking out attractions like Catedral Primada and San Juan de los Reyes Monasterio. Don't forget to try some of the city's famous marzipan before you leave.

Of all the cities in Spain, Madrid is the one that knows how to show travelers the best time. The city's party-hard reputation is really all it's cracked up to be, but that's not all Spain's capital has going for it. Madrid is filled with varied, vibrant neighborhoods, plus stunning parks, enviable shopping and some of the best art institutions in Europe, including the world-renowned Prado Museum and the Thyssen-Bornemisza National Museum. Not to mention, the city’s grandiose architecture – showcased by structures like the Royal Palace and Plaza Mayor – makes the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Mallorca is easily one of Spain's greatest assets. This dreamy island getaway features sun-kissed beaches, picturesque small towns and outdoor pursuits that draw tourists and lovebirds in droves. Revel in the see-through blue waters of Playa de Muro and Cala Llombards, then hop in a car and drive around the striking mountains that make up Serra de Tramuntana, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Make sure you spend your downtime taking leisurely strolls along the darling streets of Alcúdia's old town and by the water to admire the awe-inspiring Palma Cathedral (La Seu).

This beautiful Andalusian city in southern Spain is awash with romantic allure. During the day, you'll find outdoor cafes along cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages meandering through pastel-colored plazas. And when night falls, flamenco dancing comes out in full force. Seville is the kind of place you should allow yourself to get lost in, but don’t forget to carve out time for must-see sites such as the Plaza de España, the Real Alcázar and the Catedral de Sevilla, the largest Gothic cathedral of its kind in the world.

Situated along Spain’s northern coast in Basque Country, San Sebastian is one of the most underrated destinations in Spain. Locals understand its majesty and every summer flock to this beach destination for its breathtaking shorelines, hiker-friendly mountains and unmatched foodie scene. For a quintessentially Basque experience, travelers suggest pintxo bar hopping in San Sebastian’s city center, Parte Vieja, or signing up for a pintxos (Basque tapas) food tour. Don’t leave without taste testing San Sebastian’s world-famous anchovies and txuleta, a specialty steak that is made from aged grass-fed beef.

Granada's Arabic influence makes this destination different from the rest of Spain. Thanks to its history as part of the Moorish Empire, Granada is home to tapas bars and flamenco venues that rub elbows with Moroccan tea cafes and Arab bathhouses. This confluence allows you to experience two cultures simultaneously. And you must make time to behold the breathtaking local treasures, including the Alhambra, the white-washed caves of the Sacromonte district and the snow-capped mountains of Sierra Nevada National Park.

A popular daytrip destination for travelers visiting Barcelona, Girona stands out for its medieval architecture and wealth of attractions. From the magnificent Girona Cathedral to the city's famous 12th century Arab baths, travelers are sure to find something to suit their interests in this Spanish city. Spend some time in La Devesa Park, one of the largest green spaces in Catalonia. Don't forget to pack your walking shoes – whether you're exploring the winding, cobblestone streets of Girona's Jewish Quarter or strolling the Passeig de la Muralla path atop Girona's ancient city walls, the best way to enjoy this historic city is on foot.

Rioja is Spain's wine country. Like France's Champagne, winemakers can't label a wine "Rioja" unless it is produced and distributed from the Spanish region of La Rioja. As such, you'll want to sample plenty of vino while you visit, which will be pretty easy to do since there are more than 500 wineries plus many restaurants that serve large selections of Rioja wine. If you're looking for other things to do, take advantage of Rioja's Michelin-starred restaurants and lively tapas bars when you're not hiking or skiing its surrounding mountains.

This northern city in Spain’s Basque Country sits in the middle of a beautiful valley, affording incredible views of the city and its rolling hills. Visit Casco Viejo (the city's old town) for authentic pintxos and to explore Parque Etxebarria, where you'll find some of Bilbao's best vistas. Or, ride the Funicular de Artxanda for even more spectacular panoramas. No visit would be complete without checking out the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum Bilbao and other local cultural institutions, such as the Museo de Bellas Artes de Bilbao.

Plan a trip to this small Andalusian town if you enjoy visiting destinations with unique geography and stunning architecture. Ronda sits atop a striking gorge that separates the town. To cross the gorge, walk across the Puente Nuevo, a beautiful bridge built in the 18th century. Below, you'll get an eyeful of El Tajo canyon and the Guadalevín River. After admiring your surroundings from the Puente Nuevo, visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda, the historic old town and the Baños Árabes, well-preserved 13th- and 14th-century Arab baths.

Spain’s third-largest city stands out for offering a little taste of both the old and the new. You'll get to experience classic architecture at the Gothic-style Valencia Cathedral and the Plaza del Ayuntamiento, as well as modern sites like the City of Arts and Sciences and the Valencia Institute of Modern Art. After you've gotten your fill of city life, take a detour to breathe in some fresh air at the Albufera Natural Park or unwind at nearby beaches. What's more, with plenty of free attractions to choose from, Valencia is one of Europe's most affordable travel destinations . 

If you live to party, Ibiza is a great place to dust off your dancing shoes. This Spanish island is known worldwide for its nightlife scene, so much so that people often say you must visit during the peak summer months. However, one look at Ibiza's natural offerings and you'll understand how this island stands on its own outside of its party-hardy reputation. Beaches here are so clear that you can see your feet touch the sand as they enter the ocean. Plus, the historical charm found in Dalt Vila, Ibiza's old town, will certainly stop you in your tracks.

This cluster of Spanish islands located off the northwestern coast of Africa is one of Spain's premier beach destinations. In addition to picturesque shorelines, the Canary Islands are also teeming with outdoor attractions that will make any adventurer swoon, including four national parks. In between hiking and relaxing on the beach, take some time to stroll the neighborhoods of Santa Cruz de Tenerife, located on the largest of the Canary Islands, or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, the archipelago's most populated city, to get a taste of local life.

Situated in southwestern Spain, Cádiz is one of the country's most underrated travel destinations. As one of the oldest inhabited cities in Europe, travelers can expect a bevy of historic attractions, from the Torre Tavira watchtower to the grandiose Cádiz Cathedral. Plus, there are several beautiful outdoor spaces to explore, including Genovés Park and the laid-back beaches of La Victoria and La Caleta. When you want to wind down, Plaza de España and Plaza de San Juan de Dios are excellent places to people-watch.

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