Blanes, on Spain’s Costa Brava, offers more than just beautiful beaches. It’s a place where you can enjoy active outdoor adventures, explore lush gardens, or indulge in local wines. What makes Blanes stand out for tours is its mix of natural beauty, small-town charm, and easy access from Barcelona. We especially like the Kayak and Snorkel Tour for its chance to explore secluded coves, and the private trips to Marimurtra Botanical Garden for the breathtaking views and intimate experience. These tours let you see a different side of Catalonia that’s just a short trip from Barcelona.
If you’re deciding between options, think about what kind of experience you want—active water adventures, scenic private excursions, or a blend of food and nature. Each offers something unique, and all provide a chance to really get to know the local area.
Quick Overview
Our list of the best tours in Blanes covers a range of interests, from outdoor activities to cultural and culinary experiences. If you love being on the water, the Kayak and Snorkel Tour offers a hands-on way to discover coastal coves. For those who prefer a relaxed, scenic trip, the Private Marimurtra Botanical Garden & Blanes Tour combines natural beauty with a comfortable ride from Barcelona. And if you want a full day of indulgence, the Wine Tasting & Marimurtra Garden Tour pairs exquisite wines with stunning garden views. Now, let’s take a closer look at each.
1. Blanes: Kayak and Snorkel Tour with Guide
Starting with the Kayak and Snorkel Tour, this experience is perfect for travelers eager to explore the coastline actively. For just $59 per person, you get a guided paddle along the coast, with a chance to see the quiet coves that most visitors miss. The tour includes a break for snorkeling, giving you a chance to peer beneath the surface and see marine life up close.
What makes this tour stand out is the small group size—up to 6 people—ensuring personalized attention from your guide, who shares insights about local flora and fauna. The route is designed to showcase the most scenic spots, with calm waters ideal for both beginners and more experienced kayakers. The highlight is the opportunity to navigate through secluded coves that are inaccessible by land, making it a memorable way to experience Blanes’ natural beauty.
A notable review praises the tour’s friendly guide and the peaceful setting, calling it “a highlight of our trip.” If you love outdoor adventures that combine exercise with discovery, this is a great pick. The only potential downside is needing to be comfortable paddling for about two hours, which isn’t an issue for most active travelers.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those who want an active, intimate experience of Blanes’ coast with expert guidance and underwater surprises.
2. Barcelona: Private Marimurtra Botanical Garden & Blanes Tour
For a more relaxed but equally impressive experience, the Private Marimurtra Botanical Garden & Blanes Tour offers a full five hours of exploring one of the world’s most beautiful gardens. The tour includes a comfortable ride in a private car or minivan from Barcelona, making transportation hassle-free. Once in Blanes, you’ll visit the Marimurtra Botanical Garden, perched above the Mediterranean on dramatic sea cliffs. The garden features exotic plants, sculptures, and sweeping views that make for spectacular photos.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach—your guide is well-versed in the garden’s history and plant collection. The garden itself is a visual feast, with over 4,000 plant species, and the panoramic views of the coast are breathtaking. This tour appeals most to travelers interested in botany, scenery, and a leisurely pace.
Reviewers praise the guide for their knowledge, calling the experience “a peaceful retreat and a visual delight.” It’s ideal if you want a quiet, scenic escape from Barcelona with plenty of time to soak in the natural beauty.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a private, educational, and scenic experience that combines comfort with stunning views.
3. Barcelona: Wine Tasting & Marimurtra Garden Tour & Blanes
If your idea of a perfect day includes sampling local wines, the Wine Tasting & Marimurtra Garden Tour offers a seven-hour journey into Catalonia’s culinary and natural riches. Starting with a pickup in Barcelona, this tour pairs a curated selection of wines with tapas, supporting local producers and sustainability. After indulging in some of the best wines the region has to offer, you’ll visit the stunning Marimurtra Botanical Garden, renowned for its diverse plant collection and breathtaking ocean views.
This tour is especially suitable for wine enthusiasts and those wanting a longer, more immersive experience. The private, air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort as you travel, while the garden visit provides a peaceful contrast to the lively tasting session. Guests have called the experience “a perfect blend of taste and scenery,” praising the quality of both the wines and the garden.
The main consideration is the longer duration—seven hours—which might be ideal for a full day but less so if you’re on a tight schedule. Still, for those who enjoy food, drink, and natural beauty, this is a memorable way to experience Blanes and its surroundings.
Bottom Line: Best for food and wine lovers wanting a comprehensive, indulgent day that combines cultural, culinary, and scenic highlights.
How to Choose
Picking the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and how much time you want to spend. If you’re looking for an active day on the water, the Kayak and Snorkel Tour is hard to beat for its intimacy and adventure. Want a scenic but relaxed experience? The Private Marimurtra Botanical Garden offers a peaceful escape with expert insights. For a full sensory experience—tasting wines while exploring gardens—the Wine Tasting & Garden Tour makes a great pick, especially if you have extra time.
Consider your fitness level, interest in outdoor activities, and whether you prefer a guided group or a private experience. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
Final Thoughts
Blanes offers a variety of tours that suit different tastes—whether you want an active day on the water, a relaxed scenic journey, or a gourmet adventure. For outdoor lovers, the kayak tour is a fantastic way to see the coast from a unique perspective. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the Marimurtra Garden, especially in a private setting. And food and wine lovers will find the full-day tasting tour a perfect blend of local flavor and stunning scenery.
No matter which you choose, each experience promises a memorable way to discover more of what makes Blanes special. Book early, plan around your interests, and enjoy your time exploring this captivating part of Catalonia.