Empúries Dunes
Explore the vast Greek and Roman ruins of Empúries, a historical gem on the Costa Brava, offering a captivating journey through ancient civilizations ...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Empúries Dunes
Best Time
Avoid midday heat & crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the vast Greek and Roman ruins of Empúries, a historical gem on the Costa Brava, offering a captivating journey through ancient civilizations by the sea.
"This is one of the finest historic ruins I have seen; it's an extensive site of two cities, one Greek and one Roman, set by the sea."
🎧 Download the App
Use the QR code app for an amazing audio tour that brings history to life!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so wear comfy shoes.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Greek City Ruins
Empúries
Wander through the remnants of the ancient Greek settlement, imagining life by the Mediterranean thousands of years ago.
Roman City Ruins
Empúries
Explore the expansive Roman city, marveling at its well-preserved structures and mosaics. A true step back in time.
On-Site Museum
Empúries
Discover a treasure trove of artifacts unearthed from the ruins, offering deeper insights into the civilizations that thrived here.
Coastal Views
Empúries
Enjoy breathtaking sea vistas from the archaeological site, blending history with the natural beauty of the Costa Brava.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ancient Wonders by the Sea
Smart Exploration Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎧 Download the App
Use the QR code app for an amazing audio tour that brings history to life!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so wear comfy shoes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there's limited shade.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive ruins and museum.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎧 Download the App
Use the QR code app for an amazing audio tour that brings history to life!
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven terrain, so wear comfy shoes.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring water, especially during warmer months, as there's limited shade.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Dedicate at least 2-3 hours to explore the extensive ruins and museum.
☀️ Sun Protection
Don't forget sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses for your visit.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Empúries, calling it a 'must-see' with 'incredible' Roman city ruins and a 'vibrant' audio guide that brings history to life. The extensive site, combined with its beautiful coastal location, offers a deeply engaging historical experience. Some note that only a portion of the city has been excavated, hinting at future discoveries.
"A must see! Just the size of the roman city ruins is incredible. If we consider that only 20 percent of the former roman city are discovered what will the future deliver? We have learned a lot during the audio guided tour. The audio guide is one of the best I ever had. It tells you the story in a vibrant and lively and colorful way, same as you are part of the stories behind it."
Michael S.
"Wonderful place, extensive ruins of Greek and Roman cities.
A museum on the site is filled with relics of all kinds.
There are posts at every location with a QR code, after you download the app you scan the code at each location you visit and it gives an audio description and some history of the structure, it brought it to life.
Parking and access is free, it's a wonderful place to visit if your interested in history."
Al
"I really enjoyed it, the entry is cheap enough for most people to afford. The audio guide is really useful and there is plenty of accessibility for lesser able people. The Roman part is less accessible.
A definite go to this if you are in the area."
Faling Dutchman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Empúries is located near L'Escala on the Costa Brava. You can drive and park nearby, or take a bus from nearby towns like Girona or Figueres. Many visitors arrive by car, and parking is often free or inexpensive.
Yes, there is parking available near the entrance to the archaeological site. It's generally convenient and often free, making it easy to access the ruins.
Yes, you can reach Empúries by public transport. Buses run from major towns in the region, and it's a popular stop for those exploring the Costa Brava by bus.
Empúries is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Barcelona. You can also take a train to Figueres and then a bus or taxi to Empúries.
Many visitors combine a trip to Empúries with exploring the charming town of L'Escala, known for its anchovies, or enjoying the nearby beaches.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Empúries is generally affordable, making it accessible for most visitors. Check the official website for the most current ticket prices and any potential discounts.
While specific free entry days are not widely advertised, it's always worth checking the official Empúries website or local tourism boards for any special promotions or events.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially during peak season, to save time and guarantee entry.
Opening hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Empúries website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times before your visit.
The audio guide is often available for an additional fee or may be included with certain ticket packages. The app with QR codes is a popular and effective way to learn about the site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend at least 2 to 3 hours exploring the extensive Greek and Roman ruins, the museum, and enjoying the coastal views.
Using the audio guide or the QR code app is highly recommended. It provides fascinating historical context and brings the ancient city to life.
Yes, Empúries can be very engaging for children, especially with the audio guide or the children's tour available. It's a great way to introduce them to history.
While self-guided tours via audio guide or app are popular, check for any scheduled guided tours offered by the site, especially during peak season.
Facilities typically include restrooms and sometimes a small shop or cafe. It's advisable to bring your own water and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The coastal views are stunning, especially from the higher points overlooking the ruins and the sea. The well-preserved mosaics and architectural details also make for great shots.
Photography rules can vary. Generally, non-flash photography is permitted in outdoor areas and some parts of the museum, but it's best to check signage or ask staff.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but still offers good opportunities for architectural shots.
Drone usage is typically restricted at archaeological sites to protect the heritage and for safety reasons. It's highly unlikely drones are permitted.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm equivalent) is great for capturing both wide ruins and details. A wide-angle lens is perfect for the expansive views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Encourage kids to imagine life in ancient times, perhaps pretending to be Roman soldiers or Greek merchants. The open spaces allow for exploration, but always keep an eye on them, especially near edges or uneven terrain. Comfortable shoes are a must for everyone, and bringing snacks and plenty of water will ensure a more pleasant experience for the whole family.
🚶♀️ History Buffs & Archaeology Enthusiasts
Take your time to explore every corner, utilize the detailed audio guides, and perhaps do some pre-visit reading to enhance your understanding. The on-site museum further complements the ruins with a collection of artifacts that provide tangible links to the past. Consider visiting during off-peak hours for a more contemplative experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through Time: Greek and Roman Empúries
Visitors can explore the distinct areas of the Greek and Roman cities. The Greek section features the remains of the city walls, the agora (marketplace), and residential areas. The Roman city is even more extensive, with a forum, temples, public baths, and a well-preserved amphitheater. The site also includes a museum that houses artifacts discovered during excavations, such as pottery, sculptures, and mosaics, providing further context to the daily lives of its ancient inhabitants.
The strategic location of Empúries by the sea made it a vital port for trade and cultural exchange for centuries. Its eventual decline was due to the silting up of its harbor. Today, walking through these ruins, especially with the aid of an audio guide or app, allows you to vividly imagine the bustling port, the vibrant marketplaces, and the everyday lives of the people who called Empúries home.
Enhancing Your Visit with Technology
Alternatively, many visitors utilize a dedicated app that works with QR codes placed throughout the site. Scanning these codes at different points provides detailed audio descriptions and historical context for each structure. This interactive approach is particularly effective for bringing the ancient city to life and is often praised by visitors for its educational value and ease of use.
These digital tools transform a walk through ruins into an immersive historical experience. They are invaluable for understanding the significance of what you're seeing, especially for those interested in history and archaeology. Make sure your smartphone is charged and consider downloading the app before you arrive to ensure a seamless experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit