Badalona
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Costa Maresme
Badalona, Costa del Maresme — A Mediterranean City with Roman Roots and Seaside Charm
Badalona, just 10 km northeast of Barcelona, is more than a coastal suburb — it’s one of Catalonia’s oldest cities with Roman origins, sandy beaches, and a laid-back Mediterranean atmosphere. It’s a hidden gem where you can explore ancient ruins in the morning, enjoy seafood by the sea in the afternoon, and watch the sunset from a pier in the evening.
🏛️ History and Heritage
- Founded by the Romans as Baetulo — archaeological sites still preserved.
- Badalona Museum — walk through underground Roman streets and thermal baths.
- Santa Maria Church — gothic charm in the heart of the old town.
- Anís del Mono Factory — a historic distillery and local icon.
- Traditional Catalan festivals, including correfocs and cultural parades.
🏖️ 
Beaches and Coastal Experiences
- Badalona Beach — wide sandy shores with a peaceful vibe.
- Pont del Petroli — iconic pier perfect for sunset walks and photos.
- Seafront promenade with bike paths, cafes, and sea views.
- Water sports: paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing.
- Cleaner and quieter than the beaches of nearby Barcelona.
🍴 Gastronomy
- Fresh seafood tapas at the Mercat Municipal.
- Grilled sardines — local favorite along the coast.
- D.O. Alella wines — crisp whites from nearby vineyards.
- Coca de llardons and crema catalana for dessert.
🎨 Top 10 Things to See and Do
- Museum of Badalona and Roman ruins.
- Pont del Petroli — the pier with a view.
- Santa Maria Church and Gothic square.
- Mercat Municipal — local flavors and culture.
- Anís del Mono Factory Tour.
- Passeig Marítim — seafront walkway.
- Roman baths and mosaic floors under the museum.
- Plaça de la Vila — heart of the old town.
- Escorxador Park — greenery in the city.
- Cycling the coastal route towards Montgat or Barcelona.
🚶♂️ Suggested Itinerary
- Morning: Visit the Roman ruins and museum.
- Afternoon: Enjoy seafood tapas, relax at the beach.
- Evening: Stroll along the pier and enjoy a sunset drink.
💡 Travel Tips
- Best time to visit: May to October for warm, sunny weather.
- Perfect for: Travelers looking for a mix of culture, beach, and local life.
- How to get there: 20 minutes by train from Barcelona (R1 line).
- Avoid crowds: Visit early morning or weekdays.
- Try: A glass of Anís del Mono — the city’s signature liqueur.
Why Visit Badalona?
Badalona blends ancient Roman history, Mediterranean beaches, and Catalan authenticity — all just minutes from Barcelona. Whether you’re looking for quiet beaches, local cuisine, or archaeological wonders, Badalona offers a refreshing alternative to big-city chaos.
Badalona is a city in Spain, located in the province of Barcelona, Catalonia. It's the third largest city in Catalonia and one of the oldest on the coast.
Badalona is situated right on the shores of the Mediterranean Sea and is just a few kilometers away from Barcelona, making it an attractive place for tourists and those looking for less hustle and bustle but all the benefits of being near a major city.
One of the main attractions is the Roman museum, where you can view artefacts from the ancient Roman settlement that was here over two thousand years ago. Also worth visiting is the Dalt de la Vila area, where you can stroll through narrow streets and enjoy the atmosphere of the old town.
The beaches of Badalona are another reason to visit this city. They span several kilometers and are the perfect place to relax, sunbathe, and swim in the Mediterranean Sea.
In addition, Badalona hosts many festivals and celebrations, including the main city festival Festa Major, which takes place in May.
In general, Badalona is a city with a rich history and culture, beautiful beaches, and close proximity to Barcelona, making it an attractive destination for tourists.
✅ Great for: couples, families, foodies, and history lovers
📍 Location: Costa del Maresme, northeast of Barcelona
🚆 Access: 20 minutes by train or car from central Barcelona
