Day trips from Figueres: the Costa Brava and the Empordà in under an hour
Figueres is the best base for the Alt Empordà: in under an hour by car you are in Cadaqués, Roses, Empúries or Girona, and back to sleep in the centre without hunting for parking. Times are approximate, by car from the centre.
Cadaqués and Portlligat: Dalí's house
About 45 minutes on a winding road to the white village on Cap de Creus. In Portlligat is the Salvador Dalí House, visited in small groups and always by reservation; it closes for a few weeks in winter, so check its website. By bike, this is the Dalí Triangle route.
Roses and Cap de Creus
Roses, about 25 minutes away, has a town beach, the Ciutadella and the way into Cap de Creus Natural Park, with coves and sea viewpoints.
Empúries and L'Escala
About 30 minutes away, the Greek and Roman ruins of Empúries sit by the sea, and L'Escala is home to the anchovies you will see on menus in Figueres.
Aiguamolls de l'Empordà
About 20 minutes away, this wetland natural park is great with kids and for birdwatching. El Cortalet visitor centre opens every day.
Gala Dalí Castle in Púbol
About 40 minutes away, the medieval castle Dalí gave to Gala. It closes in winter (until late February); buy tickets online.
Besalú and Girona
Besalú, with its medieval bridge, is about 35 minutes away, and Girona, with its Jewish quarter and the houses on the Onyar, also about 35. You can combine them in one day.
Stay in Figueres, head out every day
Staying in central Figueres beats changing hotels: Ca La Fustereta includes a garage and the AP-7 is minutes away. For families and groups, see our group house in Figueres; to get here, how to get to Figueres.
Day trips from Figueres: FAQ
What is there to see near Figueres?
Cadaqués and the Dalí House in Portlligat, Roses and Cap de Creus, Empúries, the Aiguamolls de l'Empordà, Púbol Castle, Besalú and Girona, all under an hour by car.
How long does it take from Figueres to Cadaqués?
About 45 minutes by car, on a winding road.
Is Figueres a good base for the Costa Brava?
Yes: it sits in the middle of the Alt Empordà, by the AP-7 and with train links, and the coast and Girona are under an hour away.
Updated 02/11/2026