Santa Susanna holidays

How to reach Santa Susanna

• Flight time: Direct flights from Dublin and other Irish airports to Barcelona take around 2 hours 30 minutes. Girona Airport is also an option, especially for low-cost airlines.

• Transfer time: Santa Susanna is about 90 minutes by car from Barcelona-El Prat Airport. The train from the airport (via Sants station) offers a scenic 1 hour 45-minute ride along the coast.

• Price: A taxi from Barcelona-El Prat to Santa Susanna costs roughly €120. The train is a much cheaper alternative, with tickets priced around €10. Car hire is another option, with prices from about €30 per day.

Weather and best time to visit Santa Susanna

Santa Susanna enjoys a Mediterranean climate, making it an ideal holiday spot for most of the year.

• May and June offer a warm and sunny lead-up to the high season. With temperatures between 20°C and 25°C, low rainfall, and around 9–10 hours of sunshine, this is a brilliant time to visit if you want beach weather without the full summer crowds.

• July and August bring peak heat and activity, with temperatures often over 30°C and up to 11 hours of sunshine daily. The town is lively and buzzing, but expect fuller beaches and higher prices.

• September and October offer milder weather (20°C to 25°C) and fewer tourists. The sea is still warm, and while October is the wettest month, you’ll still get plenty of sunny days.

• November to April is off-peak season, with temperatures between 10°C and 16°C and fewer crowds. You’ll get around 4 to 6 hours of sunshine daily, making it a great time for relaxed sightseeing and coastal walks.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Spanish and Catalan are spoken locally, but English is widely understood in hotels, shops and restaurants.

• Local habits and customs: Expect later dining times (around 9 pm) and siestas in the afternoon, when some shops may close temporarily.

• Currency: Spain uses the Euro. Most places accept cards, but carrying some cash for small purchases or local markets is handy. ATMs are easy to find.

• Getting around: Buses and trains are reliable and affordable. A single bus ticket is about €2, and the local train connects Santa Susanna with Barcelona and other Costa Brava towns. If you're planning to explore more of the region, hiring a car is a flexible option.

• Electricity and plug types: Spain uses 220–240V with European-style two-pin plugs, so Irish visitors will need an adaptor.

• Time zone: Santa Susanna is in the Central European Time zone, which is one hour ahead of Irish time.

Best things to do in Santa Susanna

Santa Susanna, with its 2km of broad sandy beaches and characterful old town, is perfectly positioned for relishing in stunning mountainous scenery and checking out the multitude of attractions that the Costa Brava has to offer.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Mirador del Castillo: From here you can take in breathtaking views of the town, the Mediterranean Sea and the mountains in the background, making it an ideal spot for photography.

• Torre de Can Ratés (Can Ratés refuge tower): The hike up to this 16th-century watchtower is well worth the effort for panoramic vistas. While you're there, take a guided tour to learn about its history.

The best districts

• Old Town: Santa Susanna old town comprises quaint narrow cobbled streets and ancient monuments that give an insight into the town's complex history.

• Paseo Marítimo: The bustling promenade along the beach is a great place to take a stroll while feeling the sea breeze in your face. Settle in at one of the many eateries or watering holes while you indulge in some people-watching.

Historical monuments

• Old Chapel of Santa Susanna: This small Romanesque church in the old town is notable for its beautiful architecture and peaceful surroundings; a lovely peaceful spot to reflect.

Parks and gardens

• Montnegre–Corredor Natural Park: Roughly 30km from Santa Susanna, this expansive natural park offers a peaceful escape. Lush forests, walking paths, diverse wildlife and breathtaking views make this a great spot for a picnic away from the coast.

Day trips in the area

• Barcelona: Just a short train ride away, Barcelona offers endless attractions, from the stunning Sagrada Familia to the lively Las Ramblas. Spend a day exploring this vibrant city's architecture, culture and cuisine. Check out our cheap holiday packages to Barcelona for great offers.

• Girona: For a culturally fascinating day out visit Girona, which is renowned for its historic architecture that includes a Romanesque cathedral and Jewish quarter. Discover our deals on holidays to Girona.

• Montserrat: The stunning Montserrat mountain range and the renowned Montserrat Monastery make this a memorable excursion. Take the scenic train ride for breathtaking views.

Activities for families in Santa Susanna

Everyone in the family is sure to have a fantastic time on Santa Susanna holidays. The town itself has safe, well-equipped beaches and recreational areas, while just outside you'll find thrilling family attractions.

• Beaches: Santa Susanna's beaches, such as Platja de Llevant and Platja de les Caletes, are perfect for families. The sandy shores, clear waters and amenities like lifeguards and playgrounds make them ideal for a day of fun in the sun.

• Parks and playgrounds: Scattered throughout Santa Susanna, various parks and children's play areas give parents the chance to take a break while the youngsters have a whale of a time out in the open air.

• Water parks: Enjoy a day of fun at Water World in nearby Lloret de Mar, one of the largest water parks in Europe, offering a variety of slides, pools and attractions for all ages.

• Water sports: Santa Susanna's clear, calm waters are perfect for a variety of water sports. Try activities like kayaking, paddleboarding or snorkelling at Santa Susanna's beaches. There are equipment rentals and guided tours available, making it easy for even the youngest children to get started.

• Horse riding: Exploring the countryside on horseback is a wonderful way to connect with nature and spend quality family time together. Several stables around Santa Susanna offer guided rides suitable for most ages.

• Hire a bike: Renting bikes is a great way to get the whole family out and about. The area's quiet roads and beautiful trails make cycling a great activity for people of all skill levels and ages.

Free things to do in Santa Susanna

Holidaying in Santa Susanna needn't cost a fortune if you stretch those Euros a little further by taking full advantage of any freebies on offer.

• Annual festivals: Book your holiday to coincide with a local festival taking place, which brings the streets to life with parades, traditional dancing and music. The Festa Major in Santa Susanna is particularly impressive and offers lots of free entertainment.

• Free museums: Many museums in the nearby area, like the Museu del Mar (Maritime Museum) in Lloret de Mar, offer free entry on certain days. Check the museum schedules for details.

• Local markets: All over the Costa Brava weekly markets take place, and Santa Susanna has its fair share. Mingling with locals, browsing the stalls and taking in the atmosphere is a fun way to pass the time; keep an eye out for free food samples.

• Hiking trails: There are many beautiful hiking trails near Santa Susanna that you can use for free. Get close to nature and enjoy beautiful views on the walk to the Montnegre–Corredor Natural Park. The trail to Torre de Can Ratés (Can Ratés refuge tower) offers views of the coast and the chance to explore historical sites along the way.

Best beaches in Santa Susanna

Santa Susanna, nestled on the beautiful Costa Brava, boasts a range of stunning beaches that cater to all types of beachgoers. Here's a guide to some of the best beaches you can enjoy during your holiday:

Platja de Llevant

Platja de Llevant is the main beach in Santa Susanna, known for its wide stretch of golden sand and clear, calm waters. This beach is perfect for families, offering plenty of space to spread out and enjoy the sun. You'll find numerous facilities here, including sunbed and umbrella rentals, beach bars, and water sports options. Lifeguards are on duty during the peak season, making it a safe choice for swimming and other activities.

Platja de les Dunes

Located to the north of Platja de Llevant, Platja de les Dunes is a quieter beach, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds. This beach features fine sand and is well-maintained, providing a more peaceful environment. It's also a great spot for water sports like windsurfing and paddleboarding, with rental facilities available on-site.

Platja de les Caletes

For a more secluded beach experience, head to Platja de les Caletes. This small, rocky beach is surrounded by lush greenery, offering a tranquil and picturesque setting. The clear waters make it a fantastic spot for snorkelling, allowing you to explore the vibrant marine life. While it's more secluded, it's still accessible and perfect for a peaceful day by the sea.

Tips for Visiting Santa Susanna's Beaches

• Arrive Early: Popular beaches like Platja de Llevant can get crowded, especially during peak season. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot.

• Facilities: Check ahead for available amenities such as showers, toilets, and beach bars to make your visit more comfortable.

• Water Sports: Many beaches offer water sports rentals, including paddleboarding, windsurfing, and snorkelling gear. Take advantage of these to enhance your beach experience.

• Safety: Lifeguards are present at most major beaches during peak times. Always swim in designated areas for your safety.

Whether you're looking for a lively beach atmosphere or a secluded spot to relax, Santa Susanna's beaches offer something for everyone. Explore these beautiful coastal spots and make the most of your holiday on the Costa Brava.

Local dishes in Santa Susanna

Exploring Catalan food and drink is one of the delights of holidays to Santa Susanna. With its coastal location, you can expect an excellent selection of seafood dishes alongside traditional Spanish fare.

Some typical dishes

• Paella: This famous rice dish is made with a variety of ingredients, including seafood, chicken, rabbit and vegetables, flavoured with saffron and paprika.

• Fideua: A local variation of paella, made with noodles instead of rice, typically featuring seafood like prawns, clams and squid.

Tapas dishes

• Patatas Bravas: Crispy fried potatoes topped with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli – a staple in any tapas bar.

• Calamares a la Romana: Lightly battered and fried squid rings, often served with a squeeze of lemon and a side of aioli.

• Gambas al Ajillo: Prawns cooked in a sizzling garlic and chilli oil, perfect for mopping up with bread.

Meat dishes

• Cordero a la Brasa: Grilled lamb chops, seasoned with herbs and garlic, often served with roasted vegetables.

• Conejo al Ajillo: Rabbit cooked with garlic and white wine is a traditional Catalan dish.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Suquet de Peix: A hearty fish stew made with a variety of local fish, potatoes, tomatoes and garlic, which showcases the fresh seafood of the region.

• Dorada a la Sal: Sea bream baked in a salt crust, which keeps the fish incredibly moist and flavoursome.

Sweets and desserts

• Crema Catalana: A classic Catalan dessert similar to crème brûlée, with a creamy custard base and a caramelised sugar topping.

• Turrón: A popular nougat made with almonds, honey and egg whites, typically enjoyed around Christmas but available year-round.

Local drinks

• Cava: Sparkling wine from the nearby Penedès region, known for its crisp and refreshing taste.

• Sangria: A refreshing drink made with red wine, fruit juices and soda water, often served with a mix of fresh fruits – a popular choice for a leisurely afternoon by the sea.