Cultural activities
Beyond its beaches and natural landscapes, the Alt Empordà also surprises with its rich history and culture. Nearby, you'll find monuments, monasteries, archaeological sites, and unique spaces that add depth and value to your getaway.
These visits are perfect for alternating days at the beach and in nature with relaxing, interesting, and unique activities. A different way to discover the destination and have a more complete experience.
Citadel of Roses
The Citadel of Roses is a must-see if you're looking for things to do in Roses beyond the beach. This large 16th-century walled enclosure preserves remains from the Greek, Roman, and medieval periods, as well as a museum that helps you understand how the city has evolved over the centuries.
What makes it so special is that it brings together a wealth of history in one place, presented in a highly visual way. If you're looking for a comprehensive cultural visit that's easy to navigate and offers significant heritage value, the Citadel of Roses is a sure bet to enrich your getaway on the Costa Brava.
Castle of La Trinitat
The Castle of La Trinitat is one of Roses' most emblematic monuments and a must-see for cultural visitors on the Costa Brava. This 16th-century military fortress, built in 1544 during the reign of Charles I, was conceived as a defensive complement to the Citadel and is notable for its unique five-pointed star shape.
It's worth visiting not only for its history, but also for its privileged location on the Punta de la Poncella. It's one of those places you go to for its heritage, but which you remember for the spectacular views over the Bay of Roses, the sea, and the Empordà landscape.
Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
The Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes is one of the most famous cultural attractions in the Alt Empordà region and one of the most important monumental complexes in Catalonia. Located in the Verdera mountain range, within the Cap de Creus area, it is notable for its church, considered a key work of Catalan Romanesque architecture, and for unique features such as its superimposed cloisters.
Its fame stems not only from its historical value but also from its location. Visiting it means enjoying medieval art, architecture, and breathtaking views over the coast and the Bay of Roses, making it a perfect excursion if you're looking for monasteries to see on the Costa Brava with a truly unforgettable setting.
Ruins of Empúries
The ruins of Empúries are one of the most highly recommended cultural excursions if you're interested in the history and heritage of the Costa Brava. Located on the Mediterranean coast, the site is considered the most important Greco-Roman archaeological site in Catalonia and allows you to discover the legacy of both ancient Greek and Roman cities in one place.
What makes Empúries so special is the combination of archaeology and landscape. It's not just a cultural visit, but also a visually stunning and unique experience, ideal for those looking for things to see near Roses and wanting to add a unique, famous, and historically rich place to their trip.
Dalí Theatre-Museum
Dalí Theatre-Museum is one of the major cultural attractions in the province of Girona and a must-see if you're looking for things to do in Figueres. Opened in 1974, it houses the most extensive collection of Salvador Dalí's works and allows visitors to trace his career from his earliest creations to his most iconic surrealist pieces and his mature works.
Its international fame stems from both the value of the collection and the building itself, conceived by the artist as a work of art. If you're looking for an original, creative, and very different visit from any conventional museum, Dalí Theatre-Museum is one of the best cultural activities near Roses.
Sant Ferran Castle
Sant Ferran Castle in Figueres is impressive for its size and historical significance. Covering 32 hectares, it is considered the largest 18th-century fortress in Europe, and within its grounds, one can still discover unique spaces such as its enormous underground cisterns, known as the Water Cathedral.
This excursion is highly recommended if you want to combine heritage, history, and a unique visit during your stay. Its monumental scale, the views over Figueres and the Empordà region, and its role in significant historical events make it one of the most striking places for those looking for castles to see on the Costa Brava and in the Alt Empordà.