21 June marked the official start of summer in the northern hemisphere, a time awaited by many who long to enjoy sunny days, warmer temperatures and the chance to make fun and fantastic outdoor plans. It is one of the best times to visit and explore every corner of Barcelona, Costa Dorada and Costa Brava. You can do it with the low-cost and eco-friendly private transfer services and shared transfer services that Shuttle2Sun provides from Barcelona airport, Barcelona port, Reus airport, Girona airport and the AVE Camp de Tarragona train station.
This season starts with the June solstice, an astronomical and cultural event that marks the longest day of the year, and also with the Sant Joan festival, one of the most special and unique nights you can experience in Catalonia. If you want to know what to expect from this event and the best ways to celebrate it, don’t miss this article.
1. Beaches
With the arrival of summer, Catalonia’s beaches become popular destinations for residents and visitors alike. From the urban beaches of Barcelona such as Barceloneta, to the unspoilt coves of Costa Brava, to the golden sandy beaches of Costa Dorada, you have a wide variety of options for relaxing in the sun, swimming in the sea and enjoying water sports.
2. Music festivals
Summer in Catalonia is full of open-air music festivals that attract national and international artists. World-renowned events such as the Cruïlla Festival in Barcelona offer a wide variety of musical genres to suit all tastes. On the other hand, it is the time of the Fiestas Mayores celebrations, such as Tarragona, Reus, Cambrils or any other town on Costa Dorada. These events are not as commercial as other bigger ones, but they will allow you to get into the party atmosphere in a unique, authentic and original way.
3. Hiking and trekking
Catalonia is known for its natural beauty and diverse landscape. During the summer, it is an ideal time to go hiking and trekking in the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park. These activities allow you to enjoy nature at its best.
4. Summer gastronomy
Catalan cuisine is outstanding at any time of the year, but summer brings with it fresh, seasonal dishes and produce. You can enjoy dishes such as esqueixada (crumbled cod salad with tomato), suquet de peix (fish stew), escalivada (grilled vegetables) and crema catalana (traditional dessert). You can also enjoy the famous tapas and pintxos in the region’s bars and restaurants. In any town in Catalonia you can enjoy these typical dishes, but if you want to know our recommendation, visit Cambrils or Barcelona to find high quality restaurants with Michelin stars.
5. Theme parks
Costa Dorada has several theme parks where you can spend a fun day out with friends or family. For example, at PortAventura Park, located in Vilaseca, you can ride the biggest roller coasters in Europe and do lots of activities for people of all ages. You can also opt to soak up the hot summer days at PortAventura Caribe Aquatic Park or Aquopolis, located in La Pineda. You can reach all these parks with Shuttle2Sun‘s transfer services from Reus airport, located 20 minutes away from these locations.
6. Explore Barcelona
Visit the city’s iconic sights, such as the Sagrada Familia, Park Güell and Las Ramblas. Enjoy the beach at Barceloneta and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant nightlife. You can do this easily with Shuttle2Sun, transferring you from Barcelona airport to the city centre just 25 minutes away.
7. Discover Costa Brava
Travel along the stunning Catalan coastline, where you’ll find beautiful beaches, hidden coves and charming seaside towns such as Tossa de Mar, Cadaqués and Begur. You can also hike along the coastal paths for panoramic views. Girona, the main town on Costa Brava, is also a must-see destination. Explore the Jewish Quarter, stroll along the city walls and admire Girona Cathedral.
8. Take a trip to Montserrat
This mountain is one of the most outstanding places of worship in Catalonia. You can visit the famous monastery and enjoy the breathtaking panoramic views. You can also hike the surrounding nature trails.
9. Enjoy wine tourism in the Penedès region
Catalonia is famous for its wine and cava production. Visit some of the wineries in the Penedès region, where you can do wine tastings and learn about the winemaking process. We have an article dedicated specifically to wine tourism with the best places for wine tastings and visits to wineries.
10. Do some sport
Costa Dorada, Barcelona and Costa Brava have an immense coastline where you can practice sports and enjoy nature at the same time.
Diving, kayaking, beach volleyball, Cycling and beach football are just some of the many sports you can do on the beach.
The beginning of summer in Catalonia is an exciting time full of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, take part in cultural festivals and explore the rich gastronomy of the region. Travel with Shuttle2Sun and his private transfer services and shared transfer services from Barcelona Airport, Barcelona Port, Reus Airport, Girona Airport and Camp de Tarragona AVE train station.
