Free walking tours in Figueres and what to see

Must-sees

Figueres is the capital of the Alt Empordà and Salvador Dalí’s birthplace. Its big visit is the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which the artist himself designed on the ruins of the old municipal theatre and where he is buried. Inside are paintings, sculptures and installations in his unmistakable style. With the ticket you can also see the collection of jewellery designed by Dalí. It is best to book, as it gets very busy in high season.

Beyond Dalí, the town has Sant Ferran castle, a huge 18th-century bastioned fortress, part of which you can explore inside. The Rambla is the centre of local life, with terraces and modernista buildings. Close by are the Catalonia Toy Museum and the Empordà Museum. From Figueres it is easy to reach Cadaqués, Portlligat and Cap de Creus.

Free tours and guided visits

Free tours in Figueres cover the historic centre, the Rambla and places linked to Dalí’s childhood and life, always outside the museum. They make a good complement before visiting the Theatre-Museum. Among paid visits, a guided entry to the museum helps you understand its symbols. The most popular excursions are the so-called Dalí triangle, with the house at Portlligat and Púbol castle, and trips to Cadaqués and Cap de Creus.

How long to spend

A full day is enough to see Figueres at a relaxed pace. Spend the morning at the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which takes two or three hours, and the afternoon on the Rambla, the centre and Sant Ferran castle. If you are interested in Dalí, add a second day for Portlligat and Cadaqués, and a third for Púbol castle. With three days you also have time for Cap de Creus.

Where to stay

The most convenient option is to stay in central Figueres, near the Rambla and the Dalí Theatre-Museum, with everything on foot, including the climb to Sant Ferran castle. The station area is also practical if you arrive by train or plan excursions without a car. If you are driving and prefer the sea, you can sleep on the coast and come to Figueres just for the visit.