A coastal Catalonian town with sun-soaked beaches and vibrant nightlife. Home to art galleries, cultural festivals, and a thriving LGBTQ+ community.
Sitges, a coastal town 30 minutes south of Barcelona, is known for its golden beaches, vibrant cultural scene, and LGBTQ+ friendly atmosphere. You can sunbathe on one of its 17 beaches, explore the narrow streets of the Old Town, or attend the famous Sitges Film Festival. The town's proximity to the Penedès wine region also makes it an excellent base for cava tasting excursions.
Beaches of Sitges
Sitges has 17 sandy beaches along its coastline. Local residents often gather at Sant Sebastià beach, while LGBTQ+ beachgoers typically prefer Bassa Rodona. Families with children might enjoy Fragata beach, which has volleyball nets and pedal boats for rent. The Passeig Maritim, a wide pedestrian boulevard lined with cafés and ice cream shops, connects these beaches.
Exploring the Old Town
In the Old Town of Sitges, you'll walk on narrow cobblestone streets between white-walled buildings. The 15th-century Church of Sant Bartomeu and Santa Tecla stands out with its Baroque interior. At the Museu Cau Ferrat, formerly the home of Catalan artist Santiago Rusiñol, you can view a collection of modernist art. The Old Town's streets are dotted with boutiques, art galleries, and traditional restaurants.
Festivals and Events
Sitges hosts several major events throughout the year. In October, the Sitges Film Festival screens fantasy and horror films from around the world. The Sitges Carnival, held at the end of Lent, fills the streets with colorful parades and parties. During summer, you can attend music festivals in the Jardins de Terramar, featuring both local and international artists.
Food and Wine
Sitges' restaurants often specialize in seafood and rice dishes due to its coastal location. At traditional spots like La Nansa, you can taste fresh catches of the day. For a different flavor, Nem serves Asian-Mediterranean fusion meals. The nearby Penedès region is known for cava production. Many wineries in the area offer tours where you can learn about the sparkling wine making process and taste different varieties.
Getting to Sitges
To reach Sitges from Barcelona, you can take a train or drive. Trains depart from Barcelona's Sants or Passeig de Gràcia stations every 15-30 minutes, and the trip takes about 30-40 minutes. If you prefer to drive, follow the C-32 motorway for about 30 minutes. Once in Sitges, you can walk to most attractions in the town center within 10-15 minutes.
