Summary
Many visitors to the Spanish east coast on the Mediterranean go no further than Barcelona. A few might find a cheap flight to Valencia. The rest head straight to a beach resort. However, there is a lot more to explore along Spain’s east coast than just these well-known destinations.
There’s the Dali Museum in Figueres, more paella than you could ever eat in Valencia, Roman ruins in Tarragona, modernist architecture and vermouth in Reus, and the 24-hour party town of Benidorm. Here are some of the best places to visit along the east coast, along with memorable and delicious eating and drinking recommendations.
01. Barcelona
Barcelona is renowned as an exciting destination with Spain’s finest architecture, iconic barrios like the Gothic Quarter, El Born, and Gracia. It boasts some of the best bars in the country, beautiful beaches, and excellent cuisine. Moreover, it serves as a fantastic base for day trips to nearby attractions.
For a tapas-style lunch, visit La Cova Fumada. For paella, you could try El Rey de la Gamba. For a sit-down three-course lunch, check out La Pubilla in Gracia. If you’re interested in Spanish-style vermouth, explore one of the classic old vermuterias in Gracia, such as Vermuteria El Tano. Furthermore, Gracia houses Bobby Gin, hailed as the best gin-and-tonic bar in Spain. Lastly, don’t overlook Barcelona’s burgeoning craft beer scene, with BierCAB being the largest bar, while Cat Bar focuses on serving only Spanish beers.
02. Tarragona
Tarragona has some of the best Roman ruins in all of Spain, second only to Merida. Conveniently, it’s very easy to reach from Reus.
Although it’s not a paella restaurant, El Llagut specializes in rice dishes and serves some of the finest “sticky rice” plates in the country, making it worth a visit. Also, for a taste of local flavors, enjoy a glass of vermouth in Placa de la Font.
03. Reus
Reus, the birthplace of Antoni Gaudi, is an architectural feast with a wide variety of modernist buildings throughout the city. It is also renowned for its Catalan vermouth. Reus makes an excellent day trip from Tarragona or Barcelona.
Here, there is a museum dedicated to vermouth. Although the menu is primarily in Catalan, the selection of vermouths is unparalleled. Vermuts Rofes, situated in a former vermouth factory, offers a delightful menu and serves as a great spot to refuel.
04. Valencia
Valencia is Spain’s third-largest city and the birthplace of paella, making it a top reason to visit this vibrant destination. The Ciudad de Artes y Ciencias (City of Arts and Sciences) is a key attraction, as are the sun-kissed beaches that line the coast.
Throughout the city, several restaurants serve excellent paella. The dining establishments around the central market are excellent options, and Hotel Hospes Palau de la Mar is notable for winning second place in a recent international paella competition. For quality craft beer, consider visiting Olhops.
05. Figueres
Figueres is home to the Salvador Dali Museum, which features an astonishing collection of the surrealist’s finest works, making the building itself an attraction. Although options for accommodation are limited in Figueres, it remains a great half-day trip from Barcelona or Girona.
06. Cuenca
Cuenca, while located two hours’ drive from the sea, can be conveniently reached from Valencia in less than an hour via high-speed train, making it an essential stop on your itinerary. The famous casas colgadas (hanging houses) dominate the skyline upon arrival. In addition, the city is home to excellent modern art museums and an engaging science museum. The region’s inland cuisine is meat-centric, so don’t miss the chance to enjoy a roast at Asador de Antonio.
07. Benidorm
Benidorm excels at providing affordable dining and drinking options in near-perfect weather year-round, along with sun, sea, and sandy beaches. A visit between April and September almost guarantees excellent sunbathing conditions.
Despite common assumptions, Benidorm isn’t solely frequented by British tourists. Estimates suggest that Spanish and English tourists each comprise approximately 45% of visitors, while the remaining 10% includes German, Dutch, and Scandinavian travelers, making it a hidden gem for Americans.
La Cava Aragonesa is a staple in Benidorm located at Plaza de Constitucion, offering a vast array of tapas and some of the best drink-and-food deals in town. Alternatively, stroll along Calle Santo Domingo for more fantastic tapas spots. For lighter bites, visit Carrer del Rosari for complimentary tapas served with most drinks.
08. More Popular Places
- In Girona, walk along the city walls, visit the San Pere de Rodes Monastery, or explore the old Jewish quarter.
- The bright white houses in old town Altea, perched on a hill overlooking the modern town center, along with the blue-domed church and nearby beaches, provide tourists an escape from Benidorm’s lively atmosphere.
- Alicante, positioned as the third-largest city on Spain’s east coast, features a superb tapas scene and a convenient airport.
- Roses is a popular beach town near Figueres, merging beach relaxation with cultural experiences.
09. Getting There
- By air: There are airports located in Barcelona, Girona, Reus (near Tarragona), Valencia, and Alicante. Ryanair and EasyJet offer many flights to these airports across Europe.
- By train and bus: High-speed trains connect Madrid to Barcelona, Valencia, Tarragona, and Alicante.
- Where to base yourself: Barcelona is the prime location to stay, with many of the attractions along the east coast accessible as day trips.
