Sant Martí d'Empúries

A charming medieval village by the sea

Sant Martí d'Empúries belongs to the municipality of L'Escala and is one of the Costa Brava's best-preserved treasures. A top tourist attraction because of its location right by the sea and its spectacular archaeological sites. There are also a number of good restaurants with terraces on the Plaça Major, the village's atmospheric central square. In this unique medieval setting you can enjoy delicious food and drinks in the summer. A visit to Sant Martí should not be missed during your vacation!

Beach Sant Martí d'Empúries

Adjacent to the village are a few fine sandy beaches where you can also rent sunbeds and umbrellas. There are several beach bars (Xiringuitos) where you can eat and drink so you won't be short of anything here. The beaches are equipped with outdoor showers, have good access and parking (paid) is available directly behind the beach. A day at Sant Martí is a wonderful beach outing combined with culture and nature.

Walk along the coast

The promenade along the beach of Sant Martí d'Empúries was inaugurated in 1992 on the occasion of the Barcelona Olympic Games. This 3 kilometer long promenade passes through a unique wooded area (including playground & picnic area), right by the ruins and the route connects Sant Martí d'Empúries with the fishing village of L'Escala. You will pass by the beaches Empúries, Moll Grec, Els Muscleres, Portitxol and Rec del Molí. Tip: It is also a nice walk with dogs, with the dog beach Rec del Molí at the end. Read more about dog beaches on the Costa Brava.

The ruins of Empúries

At the foot of the beach are the Greco-Roman ruins of Empúries and this archaeological complex is a must-see! Its origins date back to the year 575 BC, a unique place in Spain with Greek and Roman remains side by side.

Near the ruins is the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia - Empúries (MAC). Here you can learn what life was like in this fascinating place more than 2,500 years ago. The impressive mosaics, temples, sculptures and diversity of objects from that time will leave you amazed. Although excavations began in 1908, archaeologists say there is still much to discover. They estimate that only 25 percent of the surface has been excavated.

Iglésia de Sant Martí

This beautiful 16th century church you can also visit, it is adjacent to the village square 'Plaça Major' and overlooks the sea. The bells ring every 15 minutes and wonderful classical concerts take place regularly.

Snack & Drink

In the village square "Plaça Major" of Sant Martí d'Empúries there are several restaurants with large terraces. It is always summer here and street musicians and some market stalls complete the picture. From May to November it is very pleasant to dine here in the afternoon as well as in the evening. Reserve your table in time because it can get crowded.

L'Esculapi Restaurant Pizzeria
Tapas, pizzas, fish and meat dishes.
Plaça Major 1, 17130 Sant Martí d'Empúries
Phone (+34) 972 77 00 53
Website L'Esculapi

Mesón Del Conde Tapas Restaurant
Traditional tapas dishes.
Plaça Major 4, 17130 Sant Martí d'Empúries
Phone number: (+34) 972 77 03 06
Website Mesón Del Conde

La Terrassa d'Empúries
Tapas, paella, fish and meat dishes
Plaça Major 6, 17130 Sant Martí d'Empúries
Telephone: (+34) 972 77 32 04

Can Coll Restaurant
Tapas, paella, fish and meat dishes
Plaça Major 5, 17130 Empúries
Phone number: (+34) 972 77 09 81