If you’re dreaming of whitewashed houses, rocky coves, and surreal beauty, then 1 day in Cadaqués, Spain, is all you need.
This little coastal town on the Costa Brava is the kind of place that feels like a secret, perfect for a quick day trip, especially if you’re chasing art, nature, and Mediterranean charm without the crowds.
Here’s how to spend 1 day in Cadaqués, Spain:
A Brief History of Cadaqués, Spain
Cadaqués began in the 9th century as a small fishing village along the ruggedly beautiful Costa Brava.
Its remote location, surrounded by mountains and reachable by only one winding road, attracted pirates, political exiles, and artists.
The town has long been a symbol of Catalan independence and resilience. In the early 20th century, Cadaqués became a magnet for artists like Salvador Dalí, Picasso, and Miró, who were drawn to its surreal landscapes and creative spirit.
Today, Cadaqués remains a quiet, art-filled town with deep cultural roots and a popular day trip from Barcelona.
Fun fact:
Locals speak a variant of Catalan called Cadaquesenc. It’s actually closer to the Catalan spoken in the Balearic Islands than the version spoken in Barcelona.
Dalí in Cadaqués
Salvador Dalí loved Cadaqués and spent summers here as a kid.
You can actually visit the Salvador Dalí House, where his creative genius is frozen in time. The town’s surreal beauty inspired his work, and it shows.
It really feels like you’ve stepped into one of his paintings just by walking around.
Why Cadaqués, Spain is Worth Visiting
Is it even worth spending a whole day of your epic Spain vacay here?
YES.
Cadaqués is pretty, packed with history and personality, and has an overall unexplainable magic.
The town was founded in the 9th century and has long been a safe harbor for artists, smugglers, rebels, and Salvador Dalí. Because it’s tucked into a rocky bay with only one road in and out, it has kept its charm and independence.
Once a center for Catalan independence, Cadaqués still feels like its own world.
Top 10 Things to Do in Cadaqués
When you’re writing out how to spend 1 day in Cadaqués, Spain, you’ll definitely want a list of top things to do. Here it is, from my travel itinerary to yours:
Salvador Dalí House
Step into the surreal world of Dalí at his quirky former residence in Portlligat. The Salvador Dalí House Museum is filled with unexpected details, like a giant bear at the entrance and a garden of egg sculptures.
Dalí lived here with his muse, Gala, and he claimed the strange layout of the house mirrored his creative thought process.
The house still feels like Dalí might walk in at any moment.
Cap de Creus Natural Park
Cap de Creus Natural Park feels like another planet. Rugged cliffs meet turquoise water, and the hiking is 10/10, with the scenery that is both peaceful and dramatic at the same time.
Sunset here is pure magic. Dalí often used the park’s surreal landscape as inspiration for his paintings, calling it “like being on the moon.”
Cala Nans Lighthouse
During the Spanish Civil War, Cala Nuns lighthouse served as a key lookout point to protect the rugged Catalonian coast.
Today, you can hike or boat to this tucked-away 1856 lighthouse for unbeatable views. It’s quiet, simple, and totally worth the effort. Wear good shoes and bring a picnic for maximum aesthetics.
Take Pics with Street Art
Cadaqués has low-key cool street art that blends with the town’s artsy vibe.
Look for murals, funky sculptures, and small creative touches hidden in plain sight. Many of these works are left by traveling artists who trade their art for food or a place to stay.
Dinner by the Beach
Wrap up your day with fresh seafood or tapas at a beachfront restaurant while watching the waves roll in. Many of the restaurants still use recipes passed down from generations of local fishermen’s families.
Museo de Cadaqués
This small but fascinating museum features rotating exhibitions focused on local and international modern artists. Museo de Cadaqués regularly displays early sketches by Dalí that were once thought to be lost.
Playa Gran
Playa Gran Beach was once used by smugglers to bring in goods from across the sea under the cover of night.
These days, the beach is a great way to spend the afternoon sunbathing and swimming (think SoCal water temps), with views of the whitewashed buildings and colorful boats of Cadaqués.
Explore the Old Town
Add Old Town to your Cadaqués’s day trip, just trust me.
Lose yourself in cobbled streets and whitewashed walls that have barely changed in centuries. You’ll find little shops, art galleries, and quiet spots perfect for just soaking in the vibe.
Fun fact: The layout of old town was designed to confuse pirates and protect residents from coastal raids.
The Dalí Statue
Don’t skip the iconic Dalí Statue right on the beach! No day trip to Cadaqués is complete without it!
You may need to wait for the perfect picture opportunity, as this is where most guided tours of the town start and end.
Enjoy a Morning Coffee at a Seafront Café
Start your day with a cortado and croissant (I liked CAFÉ NERETA). The views, the sounds of the waves, and the chill pace will set the tone for your 1 Day in Cadaqués, Spain.
Best Places to Shop in Cadaqués
From indie to boutique, Cadaqués has plenty of charming spots to pick up souvenirs, gifts, and cool local finds.
- Galeria Cadaqués: A must-visit for art lovers, Galeria Cadaqués has sold limited-edition prints, books, and works by artists influenced by Dalí since 1973. This is a great spot for unique souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.
- Ses Minves: This cozy bookshop stocks books in several languages and often features works by Catalan authors. Grab a locally written travel journal or a Dalí biography to take home.
- El Colmado: This is the most photographed store in Cadaqués, thanks to its bright red storefront. Located in the Old Quarter, El Colmado sells handmade products such as textiles, soaps, jewelry, and other unique souvenirs.
- Tu & Jo: Shop for original silver and gold jewelry by hand at Tu & Jo.
Where to Eat in Cadaqués
I can’t explain how to spend 1 day in Cadaqués without throwing in some great places to eat. The town may be tiny, but its food scene packs a punch with fresh seafood, Mediterranean flavors, and lovely views!
- Marítim Bar: Right on the water next to famous Dali Statue, this spot has amazing seafood and even better views as it’s literally right on the water. View the menu.
- Casa Anita: A cozy, family-run place with daily specials and a warm atmosphere. You’ll feel like you’re eating in someone’s home, but note that you’ll pay fine dining prices. View the menu.
- Es Baluard: Elegant yet chill, with beautiful views of the bay and a solid wine list, this family-run restaurant is a can’t-miss for serious foodies. View the menu.
- Compartir: A modern spot by former El Bulli chefs. It’s on the upscale side but perfect for foodies who want something special. View the menu.
- La Gritta PIANC: Laid-back with great pizza, pasta, and affordable prices. Ideal if you’re craving something casual after a beach day. View the menu.
Best Places to Stay in Cadaqués
Looking to spend more than a day in dreamy Cadaqués? Here are 3 great places to crash:
- Budget: Hostal Marina – Clean, central, and steps from the beach.
- Mid-range: Hotel Sol Ixent – Ocean views and a pool without breaking the bank.
- Luxury: Hotel La Residencia – The first hotel in Cadaqués, set in the middle of town, a 2-minute walk from the beach, is gorgeous!
How to Get to Cadaqués from Barcelona
So now you know how to spend 1 day in Cadaqués, but how do you get there? TBH it’s not super easy to reach, but that’s part of town’s the charm.
Busses & Trains
There is no train or bus that takes you directly to Cadaqués. So, you must first take a train or bus to Figueres, then a local bus to Cadaqués.
It’s a bit of a trek, but totally doable if you don’t want to drive (Personally, I’m not brave enough to drive that winding, towering mountain road).
By Air
What is the closest airport to Cadaqués?
The nearest airports are Girona (1 hour away) and Barcelona (2.5 hours away). From Girona airport, there are two coach companies (Barcelona Bus and Sarfa Bus) that run from 4.30am till 0.30am. Once there, you can either take a coach to Cadaqués (only available Monday-Friday) or by train to Figueres.
Renting a Car
If you’re renting a car in Spain, driving is the fastest and most flexible option. Just be prepared for a curvy mountain road. There’s only one road in and out, but the views are unforgettable!
Note:
If you’re NOT a confident driver or afraid of heights, don’t drive yourself, this route is intense.
Guided Tours
Don’t want to put all the work into figuring out how to spend 1 day in Cadaqués? Make it easy and consider a tour:
- Girona, Figueres, Dalí Museum & Cadaqués From Barcelona: Book this tour for an amazing day with stops in Girona, Dalí’s museum in Figueres, and a few hours in Cadaqués. Perfect if you want someone else to handle the logistics.
- Catamaran Tour from Roses: Take this scenic cruise along the coast with stunning views of Cap de Creus. It’s relaxing, unique, and a super aesthetic way to arrive.
- For Dalí Lovers, Tour from Barcelona: This full-day Salvador Dalí tour takes you from Barcelona to key places in the artist’s life, including the Dalí Theatre-Museum in Figueres and his coastal home in Portlligat near Cadaqués.
Final Thoughts on Cadaqués
I highly recommend spending 1 Day in Cadaqués, Spain! Art, history, food, Dalí, and that breezy Mediterranean vibe all in one place. It’s a spot that feels far away from everything in the best way.
If you’ve been commenting below, let me know which of these things you’ve eaten or explored, or give me your best recs!
