Figueres

Figueres, capital of the Alt Empordà and birthplace of Salvador Dalí, is the coast’s great inland day trip. People come first and foremost for the Dalí Theatre-Museum, the world-in-itself that the artist designed himself (see its dedicated page).

But the town has far more to offer: the Castell de Sant Ferran, one of the largest fortresses in Europe (18th century), whose immense star-shaped ramparts you can walk, and the Toy Museum of Catalonia, one of the richest in the world and perfect with children. In between, stroll and have lunch on the Rambla.

Good to know: about 1 hr away by car (48 km). Park once and do it all on foot: Dalí + a museum + lunch on the Rambla.