Founded in 1279 by Peter III of Aragon, Palamos is a former royal port on Spain’s sun-drenched Costa Brava. It is home to a large fishing fleet famed for its catches of prawns and was depicted in the landscape paintings of locally-born artist Ezequiel Torroella i Mato.
Things to do in Palamós
Spend an afternoon exploring the historic streets of Palamos, beginning with a stop at the Mirador de la Plaça de la Murada. After soaking up the views across the town, continue to the 15th-century Parroquia de Santa Maria del Mar. It’s particularly renowned for its altarpiece featuring paintings by Isaac Hermes Vermey.
Occupying an old port warehouse that dates from the 1930s is the Fishing Museum, which details the maritime heritage of Palamos and the Costa Brava. In addition to antique fishing equipment and seafaring artefacts, the museum is home to two boats, the “Gacela” and the “Polar Star”. If you’re a fan of seafood, be sure to visit the Espai del Peix, which hosts cooking workshops and gastronomical presentations.
On the doorstep of Palamos are several beautiful beaches where you can swim and sunbathe in the summer months. A short walk from the town centre is Platja Gran, where beach umbrellas and loungers are available for rent, as well as kayaks for exploring the coastline. On the opposite side of the port is Platja Fosca, a family favourite due to its shallow waters. Further afield is Platja Castell, a picturesque stretch of sand backed by the ruins of an Iberian settlement.
Getting around Palamós
Palamos is around 1.5 hours’ drive from Barcelona and Josep Tarradellas Barcelona-El Prat Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Regular buses connect to Palamos and the town is small enough to explore on foot.