One of the few places to really qualify as a paradise on earth, Costa Dorada is the destination of choice for those seeking to combine the sea, sand and fun of traditional Spanish holidays with a slice of real Catalonian culture.The Spanish themselves come here for their breaks, attracted by the long golden sands that give the place its name, which translates as the ‘Golden Coast’. There’s no surprise it's on our list of favourite resorts, whether you’re travelling here with friends, family, or as a couple.
Things to do
You’ll find plenty of things to do on your holidays to Costa Dorada, whether you’re travelling with family, friends or your significant other. Those with children will enjoy a thrilling day out at one of the nearby theme parks, while romantic couples might enjoy a trip to explore sun-bleached Roman ruins or marvel at some of the finest examples of Modernist Architecture, anywhere in the world. Groups of friends with a taste for the Great Outdoors can take advantage of the variety of activities on offer, including golf, water sports and cycling.
If you’re travelling with children, the whole family will love a trip to PortAventura. One of the largest theme parks in all of Europe, it’s packed full of adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, live shows and there’s even a water park. If your kids prefer making sandcastles on the beach, the soft sands of Llevant Beach in Salou are nearby, while the Paseo Maritimo is perfect for a sunset stroll by the sea.
For a sense of history, a visit to Tarragona is a must. It’s a beautiful town dotted with Roman ruins. You can visit the amphitheatre or take a tour of the Archaeological Museum, before enjoying a meal at the vibrant town square. In nearby Reus, you’ll see incredible modernist architecture and a museum dedicated to the town’s most famous resident, Antoni Gaudi.
If you love to be active on holiday, Costa Dorada has everything from scuba diving to horse riding and mountain trekking. Many of the towns, including the charming Sitges, run segway tours as a unique way to see the local area.
No matter when you visit Costa Dorada, the region’s full of vibrant celebrations and fiestas. The Festival of St Joan Catalonia honours the shortest night of the year with fireworks, bonfires and dancing, while Sant Pere Festival in Reus and Sitges International Film Festival of Catalonia are must-sees.
Places to stay
Found in the south of Catalonia, the Costa Dorada stretches 216km down the east coast of Spain facing the Mediterranean Sea. Between Salou and Tarragona is the family-friendly PortAventura resort. Kids will love the thrill of the theme park and can splash their way through the Costa Caribe Aquatic Park. Or pick nearby Cap Salou where you can enjoy a leisurely round of golf or pop to one of the many small beaches and enjoy a dip in the Mediterranean Sea.
More Travel Guides
We also have travel guides available for destinations including: Cap Salou | Portaventura | Salou
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