Pals

The Basics

The historical village of Pals ranks among the most picturesque destinations on Spain’s Costa Brava. Many travelers visit the town on a day trip from Barcelona, with itineraries that often include Girona, Peratallada, and the fishing village of Calella de Palafrugell. Tours of the village nearly always include a visit to the Torre de las Hores (Tower of Hours) clock tower, as well as insight into the area’s medieval history.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Pals is a must-see for history buffs, couples, and travelers looking for a break from Barcelona.

• Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven surfaces.

• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially if you plan to visit the beach.

How to Get There

Because the nearest train station to Pals is in Girona, the easiest way to get to Pals from Barcelona is either to take a train to Girona and a bus to Pals or to take a bus directly from Barcelona to Pals. Another option is to rent a car and make the 90-minute drive yourself.

When to Get There

For warm beach-worthy weather without the summer crowds, head to Pals during the spring or autumn shoulder seasons. Plan to visit during the annual rice sowing or rice harvest festivals for a deeper cultural experience.

A Day at the Beach

Though Pals is not on the coast, it is close to one of the best beaches on the Costa Brava. During the summer months, head down to Platja Gran de Pals, a crescent-shaped stretch of sand lined with pine trees, to cool off in the waters of the Mediterranean.

What is Pals in Spain known for?

The mountaintop town of Pals is renowned for its remarkably preserved medieval center, with its atmospheric cobbled lanes, old city walls, and historic fortress. Pals is also an important gastronomic center, known for its rice production, lively weekly food market, and annual summer food and wine festival.

What is the Pals market in Spain?

The hilltop medieval town of Pals, along Spain’s Costa Brava, hosts a popular weekly market held each Tuesday morning (9am–2pm) along Avenida Europa de Pals. The lively market is best known for its fresh produce, including Catalan cheeses, oils, wines, and locally produced rice products.

When was Pals in Spain founded?

The exact date Pals was founded is unknown, but documentary evidence indicates a castle stood there in AD 889. Most of the town’s medieval architecture dates from the 12th to 16th centuries, but the name “Pals” comes from “Palus,” which means "swampy place" in Latin, hinting at possible Roman roots.

How do you get from Barcelona to Pals?

The medieval town of Pals sits along the Costa Brava, about 80 miles (130 kilometers) northeast of Barcelona. It’s about a 90-minute drive to Pals from Barcelona, or you can take the train to Girona (1 hour, 14 minutes) followed by a bus to Pals (1 hour, 5 minutes).

Is visiting Pals worth it?

Yes, Pals is often described as one of the most beautiful medieval towns along Spain’s Costa Brava. The mountaintop town is renowned for its cobbled lanes, medieval fortress, and weekly market selling Catalan specialties. The sandy beach of Platja de Pals nearby is also a popular spot for water sports.

How long does it take to tour Pals?

Pals is small enough to visit on a day trip, and you can stroll around the medieval town, admire the views from the Tower of Hours, and browse the local market before enjoying some traditional Catalan cuisine at one of the many restaurants or heading down to the beach.