Perched on a rocky promontory between two sweeping sandy bays, Sitges has a setting that has inspired painters since Santiago Rusiñol made it the cradle of Catalan Modernisme in the 1890s. His former home, the Cau Ferrat Museum — filled with wrought ironwork, paintings and ceramics — remains one of Catalonia's most evocative art spaces, perched above the waves with the blue Mediterranean pouring through its windows.
The town's beaches are among the most attractive on the coast. Platja de la Fragata and Platja de la Ribera stretch east of the old town, offering fine sand, calm water and a string of beach bars. Smaller coves like Platja de Sant Sebastià provide more secluded spots. The seafront promenade, the Passeig Marítim, is a perfect evening walk lined with restaurants serving creative Mediterranean cuisine.
Sitges punches well above its weight culturally. The Maricel Museum houses medieval art and ceramics in a palatial building overlooking the sea. The town hosts an internationally renowned film festival in October, a carnival in February that rivals Nice, and a summer programme of live music, theatre and dance. Its inclusive, cosmopolitan atmosphere has made it one of Spain's most welcoming towns for decades.
The old town itself is a pleasure to explore: narrow streets, bougainvillea-draped balconies, independent boutiques and excellent ice-cream shops. The church of Sant Bartomeu i Santa Tecla, crowning the headland, is visible from the beaches and is the town's postcard image.
From Camping La Noria, drive north on the C-32 motorway (about 45 minutes) or take the Rodalies R2 Sud train via Vilanova i la Geltrú. The train runs along the coast with spectacular views and deposits you a short walk from the town centre.
