Sitges, a delightful seaside resort near Barcelona, is a destination that blends natural beauty, art, and tradition.
Its Mediterranean climate, cobbled streets, and vibrant cultural scene – highlighted by its renowned film festival – offer a wide range of attractions to cater to all tastes. Discover what to see in Sitges for a unique experience just a stone's throw from Barcelona.
What to see in Sitges in one day
If you’re wondering how many days you need to explore Sitges, one day is often sufficient to capture the essence of this charming seaside resort. Here’s what Sitges is famous for:
- Sitges Old Town: Begin your visit in the heart of the town, where you can admire the stunning architecture and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Parish Church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla.
- Cau Ferrat Museum: Once the residence of the artist Santiago Rusiñol, this museum houses an extensive collection of modernist art and serves as a significant cultural landmark in the town.
- Palau Maricel: This palace offers spectacular views of the Mediterranean from its terraces and is ideal for understanding Sitges' historical and artistic significance.
- Promenade and Beaches: Take some time to stroll along the beautiful promenade, enjoying the sea views and relaxing on one of the famous beaches – a fantastic option if you’re looking for free things to do in Sitges.
- Local Cuisine: Conclude your day by sampling typical dishes at the many restaurants and bars in the centre, making for a perfect evening plan in Sitges, especially for couples.
What to see in Sitges with children
Visiting Sitges with children is a wonderful experience, offering activities and attractions suitable for the whole family. One of your first stops should be the Maricel Museum, which organises family workshops that allow children to discover art in a fun and educational way.
Additionally, you can’t miss Sitges’ beaches, such as Sant Sebastià beach, which is ideal for families due to its calm waters and available facilities. For an outdoor adventure, Terramar Park is perfect for a family picnic or for children to run and play in a safe and natural environment.
Sitges’ hippie market typically takes place on Saturdays along the seafront promenade, providing a lovely opportunity for a stroll past the stalls, which children are sure to enjoy.
What to eat in Sitges
The cuisine in Sitges reflects its Mediterranean culture, where fresh seafood and rice dishes take centre stage. You can’t visit Sitges without sampling its famous xató, a local salad that combines endive with anchovies, tuna, and shredded cod, all dressed with a delicious walnut and almond sauce.
Another dish you must try is fideuà, which is similar to paella but made with pasta instead of rice. For dessert lovers, coca de llardons is the most popular sweet treat. This traditional cake, made with pork scratchings, is sure to leave you wanting more.
How to get to Sitges
Sitges, located just 35 kilometres from Barcelona, is easily accessible by various means of transport. You can choose from the following options to get there:
- Train: The most convenient and fastest option from Barcelona is the local train (Rodalies R2 Sud), which departs from Sants Station and takes approximately half an hour to reach Sitges. Trains are frequent, with departures every 15 minutes during peak times.
- Car: If you prefer to drive, you can take the C-32 motorway, which connects Barcelona to Sitges in about 40 minutes. This toll road offers panoramic views of the Catalan coastline.
- Bus: Several bus lines provide services from various points in Barcelona (such as Estació del Nord or Sants) to Sitges, making it an economical alternative.
Sitges' surroundings
In addition to its beaches and vibrant cultural life, Sitges is conveniently located near several intriguing places worth visiting. Here are some recommendations if you’re wondering what to do in and around Sitges:
- Garraf Natural Park: Just a few minutes away by car, this park offers stunning natural landscapes and hiking trails that allow you to disconnect and immerse yourself in nature.
- Vilanova i la Geltrú: The nearest town to Sitges, Vilanova boasts an interesting historical and cultural heritage, including the Railway Museum and the Can Papiol Romantic Museum.
- Tarragona: Less than an hour’s drive away, you’ll find this UNESCO World Heritage city, renowned for its impressive Roman ruins.
- Montserrat Monastery: Set in a mountainous backdrop, this monastery is one of the most significant religious and cultural sites in Catalonia.
- Penedès Wineries: If you enjoy wine, a visit to the wineries in the Penedès region is a must.
Living in Sitges
Sitges is not only a fantastic tourist destination but also an ideal place to live. Many are drawn to its year-round mild climate, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning landscapes. Living in Sitges allows you to enjoy the tranquillity of a seaside town while benefiting from modern amenities and a high quality of life. Furthermore, its proximity to Barcelona means you can relish life in a quiet town while having easy access to a bustling city.
The real estate market in Sitges is diverse, offering options for all preferences and budgets. From flats with sea views to traditional houses in the old town, there is a range of properties to suit various needs and lifestyles.
