The Ultimate Guide to Accessibility and Transportation on the Costa Brava: Planning Your Property Viewings in 2026

Welcome to the agency's blog N°1 France Espagne Immobilier, in exclusive collaboration with our international partner Lloyd-Davis Luxury International.

Have you decided to take the plunge and make the purchase of an architect-designed home, a sea-view apartment, or the villa of your dreams on the Costa Brava a reality? It’s an excellent decision, both financially and personally. However, before signing the deed at the notary’s office and settling in, there’s a crucial step to take: the discovery phase, including research and on-site visits.

To choose your future home under the best possible conditions, you’ll want to take the time to thoroughly research the region, explore the different neighborhoods, and plan your fact-finding trip as effectively as possible. To support you from the very start of your project, our experts have put together this comprehensive transportation guide. Whether you’re coming from Paris, Lyon, Brussels, Geneva, or the south of France, discover all the transportation options to get you to the Costa Brava quickly and comfortably in 2026.

1. The Costa Brava: A Strategic Location in the Heart of Europe

One of the main reasons why the Costa Brava (the Catalan “Wild Coast”) is the top destination for French-speaking and European buyers is its immediate geographical proximity. Unlike the Costa del Sol or Andalusia, which require long journeys, northern Catalonia is located at the crossroads of major European transportation routes.

This exceptional accessibility offers a twofold advantage: it makes your initial property-hunting trips easier and ensures that, in the long run, your loved ones, your children, or your future seasonal renters (if you own a property with an HUTG tourism license) will be able to join you in no time.

2. Traveling by Plane: Speed, Efficiency, and Flexibility

The fastest and most efficient way to get to the Costa Brava is undoubtedly by plane. By 2026, Catalonia will have a first-rate airport infrastructure connecting it to major European capitals. There are two main options available to you, depending on your final destination along the coast.

Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO): Right on the Water’s Edge

Located southeast of the beautiful city of Girona, Girona-Costa Brava Airport is the historic gateway to the coast and the closest airport to the shoreline.

• Advantages: It is just a 40-minute drive from the seaside resorts on the southern coast (Lloret de Mar, Platja d’Aro) and less than an hour from the Bay of Roses or theEmpuriabrava marina.

• Traffic: The airport handles a steady and significant number of international flights every day, particularly from low-cost carriers offering very competitive fares—perfect for business trips or impromptu weekend trips to view properties.

Barcelona-El Prat Airport (BCN): The International Hub

For travelers coming from farther away or who prefer national airlines (Air France, Iberia, Brussels Airlines, Swiss), Barcelona-El Prat Airport is the best option.

• Infrastructure: It is one of the largest hubs in Southern Europe. It offers daily direct connections to Paris, Lyon, Nice, Brussels, Geneva, and even the Americas.

• Access to the coast: Located south of Barcelona, it takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes by car via the AP-7 highway to reach our offices in Roses or Empuriabrava. Direct shuttle buses (Sarfa) also connect the airport to the main towns along the Costa Brava.

N1Immo’s tip: If you’re flying into Barcelona or Girona, we strongly recommend renting a car right at the airport. Having your own vehicle is essential for exploring the various residential areas, visiting the hills of Palau-Saverdera, or discovering the coves of Canyelles.

3. Trains and the TGV: The Smart and Eco-Friendly Choice

Among the transportation options available for traveling to the Costa Brava, the high-speed train (TGV/AVE) stands out as a particularly smart, comfortable, and eco-friendly choice, especially for residents of the south of France.

The Paris-Lyon-Barcelona high-speed rail line

Since the opening of the direct cross-border rail line, traveling to Spain by train has become a real pleasure. You avoid airport lines, baggage restrictions, and the fatigue of driving.

• For residents of the South of France: The TGV stops at all the major cities along the French coast, such as Nîmes, Montpellier, Narbonne, and Perpignan. From these stations, it takes just a few dozen minutes to cross the Pyrenees.

• For residents of Paris and Lyon: Daily direct trains connect Gare de Lyon (Paris) or Lyon Part-Dieu to the heart of Catalonia in just a few hours.

Figueres-Vilafant Station: Your Gateway to Real Estate

The TGV drops you off at the Figueres-Vilafant station, located at the gateway to the Costa Brava. Figueres is not only the birthplace of Salvador Dalí; it is also a major transportation hub in northern Spain.

• From the Figueres train station, it’s just a 15- to 20-minute drive to Roses and Empuriabrava.

• The station has car rental agencies and regular bus routes to take you directly to your appointments with our real estate agents.

4. Driving: Total Freedom and Wine Tourism

If you enjoy traveling at your own pace, packing as much as you want, and having complete freedom once you arrive, a car remains the preferred mode of transportation for a large portion of our French-speaking clientele.

The AP-7 (Mediterranean Highway)

Getting to the Costa Brava by car is a breeze. From France, simply take the A9 (La Languedocienne) highway, which becomesthe AP-7 once you cross the border at Le Perthus.

• Key travel times: Perpignan is just 45 minutes from Roses, Montpellier is 2 hours and 15 minutes away, Lyon is 4 hours and 30 minutes away, and Paris is about 8 hours and 30 minutes away.

• Toll-free: Please note that in recent years, the AP-7 highway has become entirely toll-free along its entire Catalan section, which significantly reduces transportation costs for your regular trips.

The Alt Empordà Wine Route: Combining Business with Pleasure

If you decide to drive to the Costa Brava, don’t miss the Empordà Wine Route (Ruta del Vi DO Empordà). Northern Catalonia is a land of historic vineyards, nestled between the sea and the mountains.

In addition to searching for a home with our agents, you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a bit of wine tourism. As you pass through the villages of Peralada, Capmany, and Vilajuïga, you’ll be able to:

• Visit prestigious wineries (bodegas) and taste full-bodied red wines or crisp white wines influenced by the Tramontane wind.

• Discover the local way of life and cuisine at traditional inns (masias).

• Understanding the country's culture will greatly facilitate your future integration as a resident.

5. Once You’re There: An Immediate Immersion in Stunning Landscapes

Arriving on the Costa Brava is an immediate visual treat. The transportation system drops you right in the heart of a pristine environment where nature and coastal architecture blend harmoniously.

[Aéroports / Gares TGV / Autoroute AP-7]
                 │
                 ▼
     [Plaine de l'Alt Empordà]
      (Route du Vin / Tourisme)
                 │
        ┌────────┴────────┐
        ▼                 ▼
   [Roses / Canyelles]  [Empuriabrava]
   (Villas vue mer)     (Marina / Amarres)
        │                 │
        └────────┬────────┘
                 ▼
         [Cadaqués / Cap de Creus]

Roses and Canyelles: The privilege of a sea view

As you arrive from the coast, you’ll discover the village of Roses—bustling all year round—and its exclusive residential areas, such as Canyelles Petites and Almadrava. It is here that we select our most beautiful renovated apartments with large terraces and our villas with heated pools, offering commanding and exceptional views of the sea and the surrounding countryside.

Empuriabrava: A Sailor's Paradise

Just a few miles away lies the seaside resortof Empuriabrava, internationally renowned as one of the world’s largest residential marinas. With 23 kilometers of navigable canals, it’s the perfect place to buy a home with a private boat slip or a renovated studio just 50 meters from the beach.

Cadaqués: A Wild Gem

Be sure to extend your trip to the legendary village of Cadaqués, a whitewashed gem nestled in the heart of the Cap de Creus Natural Park. Its winding road offers breathtaking views that have inspired some of the greatest artists, from Salvador Dalí to Picasso.

6. The Nautical Advantage: Exploring the Costa Brava from the Sea

For a homebuyer, accessibility isn’t limited to roads or railways. It’s also measured by the sea. The Costa Brava is home to dozens of marinas and private boat harbors.

While you’re there, you can even rent a boat to explore the coastline. Discovering the region from the water offers a completely different perspective—and is a must if you’re considering purchasing a waterfront property. You’ll be able to:

1. Assess the navigability of the Empuriabrava channels and the depth for your future draft.

2. Discover the hidden coves accessible only by sea (Cala Joncols, Cala Montjoi).

3. Check the boat’s exposure to the wind and the protection of the moorings facing the sea.

Conclusion: Plan Your Tour with N°1 France Espagne Immobilier

Thoroughly planning your trip is the key to a stress-free and efficient property search. Now that you know all the transportation options for getting to the Costa Brava, all that’s left is to set the dates for your viewings.

By choosing to partner with N°1 France Espagne Immobilier and Lloyd-Davis Luxury International, you’ll receive personalized support from the moment you arrive:

• We can advise you on the best train or flight times.

• We plan an optimized itinerary to make the most of your time there.

• We’ll walk you through the unique features of each neighborhood (proximity to the beach, shops within walking distance, south/southwest-facing).

The Costa Brava has never been closer. Contact our bilingual agencies today to plan your next trip and find the key to your future Catalan haven.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Transportation and Accessibility

What is the average travel time by car from the French border to Roses or Empuriabrava? Once you’ve crossed the border at Le Perthus, it takes about 35 to 45 minutes to reach Roses or Empuriabrava via Highway Exit 3 (Figueres Nord).

Are there any bus connections between the Figueres TGV station and the coast? Yes, the local bus company Amps offers regular shuttle services timed to coincide with TGV arrival times, taking you directly to the bus stations in Roses and Castelló d’Empúries (Empuriabrava).

When is the best time to organize a property viewing trip? Spring (April–May) and fall (September–October) are the ideal times. The weather is beautiful, traffic is light, and our agents are more available to show you our exclusive listings under the best conditions.