Quick, high-quality pastries and coffee to go; perfect before a drive. Forn Baluard usually opens around 07:30 (some branches) so check the exact shop time and grab a bocadillo or croissant to eat en route.
Head north-east along the C-32 then GI-682 for the fastest scenic drive; expect around 1h15–1h45 depending on traffic. This gets you into the Costa Brava before the busiest mid-morning crowds.
Wander the cobbled streets inside Tossa's medieval walls, enjoy cliff-top views and the photogenic medieval towers; the area is atmospheric and great for photos. The old town is open all day but the castle/monument ticketed area has specific hours.
Visit the castle battlements and small museum; the ticketed castle area usually opens around 10:00 and offers panoramic coastal views—an essential short visit in Tossa.
A scenic 40–60 minute drive along winding coastal roads to Begur; you can park near the village or the coves. Roads are narrow in high season so allow extra time.
Spend time soaking up crystal-blue water and sheltered coves; these small beaches are classic Costa Brava with clear water and pine-fringed rocks. Beaches are open access; bring swimwear and shoes for rocky sections.
Enjoy fresh seafood or rice dishes with sea views; lunch service at coastal restaurants typically runs from about 13:00–15:30, so aim for the main lunch slot. Booking in summer is recommended.
A short 20–25 minute drive inland to Pals, a beautifully preserved medieval hill village with a photogenic tower and cobbled streets—easy to visit in an hour.
Stroll the Gothic streets, visit the viewpoint from Torre de les Hores (tower opening hours typically 10:00–18:00) and enjoy the timeless architecture; the village is compact and largely free to wander.
If you want a bit of sand after the village, Platja de Pals is wide and peaceful—good for a quick walk or a paddle. Beaches are public and open all day.
A short 25–35 minute drive brings you to one of the Costa Brava's most charming fishing villages; plan to arrive late afternoon when the light is lovely for a coastal walk.
Take the famous coastal path for stunning sea views—this section is about 20–30 minutes one-way and is open all day (wear comfortable shoes). It's an easy, scenic stretch perfect for late afternoon.
Return to Calella for dinner of local seafood, fideuà or rice dishes; dinner service usually starts around 19:00–21:30—reserve if you can to get a sea view table.
Head back to Barcelona along the AP-7/C-32 route; typical drive time is 1h30–2h depending on traffic and day-of-week. You'll arrive back in the city in the later evening.
Drop-off the car or end your day at your accommodation; if you prefer a later finish, consider stopping for a drink in Barcelona's Born or Gothic Quarter.