Sant Pol de Mar offers various perspectives to consider when planning a trip: architectural history, maritime themes and beaches with their own local character. There are also events and guided tours, some of which are tied to specific seasons. If you want to make a festival or tour the focus of your trip, start with your travel dates; the distinctions below will help you match culture and coast to your interests.
Architectural history: from Sant Pau to Modernisme
The Church of Sant Pau dates back to the 11th century and preserves structural elements from the 6th and 10th centuries. Sant Pol de Mar’s architectural heritage includes maritime, Romanesque, Neoclassical, Modernista, Noucentista and contemporary architecture. Can Planiol is an example of local Modernista architecture.
The history of the houses also extends beyond the town: during the Indiano period, residents returning from the Americas had houses built in Sant Pol de Mar. These were intended to symbolize the prosperity their owners had acquired through their travels. The history of these buildings thus adds the life stories of the returnees to the town’s varied architectural styles.
The Museu de Pintura de Sant Pol de Mar has a collection of around 200 works. The museum presents or produces four exhibitions a year and also organizes talks, guided tours with commentary, children’s workshops and concerts. If you want to see a particular exhibition or take part in an activity, check the dates in the current programme.
Festivals and food events throughout the year
The Fira de Sant Pau takes place on 25 January and dates back to the Middle Ages. The Marxa de Sant Pau follows on the Sunday after Sant Pau. The spring programme includes the food fair Fira de la Maduixa and a Mostra Gastronòmica. If food events are of particular interest to you, you can factor these spring offerings into your travel plans alongside the festival dates.
The Festa Major de Sant Jaume is celebrated on 25 July with fireworks, dances, and cultural and festive activities. The programme also includes the Fira d'Art de Sant Jaume. This gives the calendar another fixed date in summer, while the Sant Pau events take place in January.
Maritime themes and seasonal offerings
The guided tour El Sant Pol dels Pescadors is offered in July, August and September. It takes visitors to various places connected with maritime activities and former fishermen. Check the tour dates before your trip. The seasonal Firamar programme includes demonstrations of maritime crafts, stalls selling handcrafted products, talks and themed conferences, as well as a guided route. Check the programme for the relevant year in advance. A sailing club is located right next to Platja de les Barques.
Beaches with different local settings
La Platjola is close to the town centre and sheltered by the La Punta promenade. Playa de Sant Pol is an urban beach next to the town centre and the parking area. Platja de la Murtra has a different setting: it is close to a protected area for great cormorants. These differences give you specific points of reference when comparing coastal locations by their position and surroundings.
Getting your bearings and planning routes
The Sant Pol de Mar Tourist Information Office provides information about beaches, nature, culture, heritage, sport and other visitor services, and offers guided tours. If you are looking for specific information or a tour, check the current offerings in advance. A section of the Camino de Santiago also passes through the town: Stage 3 of the Via Marina runs through Sant Pol de Mar. Route conditions and signposting may change; check the latest information before setting out.
The dates are spread throughout the year: the Fira de Sant Pau takes place on 25 January, the Festa Major de Sant Jaume is celebrated on 25 July, the food fairs are held in spring, and the maritime tour is offered from July to September. Check the tour dates in advance if it is to determine your stay.
Discover more destinations: Sabadell, Sant Martí Sesgueioles, Argençola, Bellver, Sant Joan Samora, Sant Cugat Sesgarrigues, La Ràpita, Collsuspina
For the broader travel overview: Barcelona.
