Sitges in six stops

Expect a thriving art scene, blonde beaches and tapas bars aplenty at this Catalan coastal darling, says Fleur Rollet-Manus

1Nicknamed ‘the St Tropez of Spain’ and located just 30 minutes’ south of Barcelona, Sitges attracts cool and creative Catalans eager to soak up the bohemian vibe first instilled by Picasso, Miró and their set during Franco’s dictatorship. Galleries, museums and a pretty palm-lined promenade await.

2Sitges is blessed with 300 days of sun a year, best enjoyed at one of 17 beaches dotted along the coast. Playa de Les Botigues, the largest, is home to six chiringuitos, each serving Catalan snacks – try the salt cod salad at Odín. Ditch the crowds at Cala Ginesta, a quiet cove backed by emerald hills.

3To understand the vibrant artistic spirit that runs through Sitges, visit Cau Ferrat Museum – once home to Santiago Rusiñol, a political painter who was one of the leading figures of the Catalan Modernist movement and a key influence on Picasso. Afterwards, wander the old fishing neighbourhood filled with artists’ workshops and ceramic studios. museusdesitges.cat

4Tapas is taken seriously here – the town hosts the Tapa a Tapa festival twice a year, in April and November. Topping our list of must-try tapas bars is El Cable, run by the third-generation Andreu family. Gorge on platefuls of tuna tartare, anchovies and pa amb tomàquet – chunks of chewy bread topped with fresh tomato pulp and olive oil. elcable.cat

5More than 50 fiestas take place throughout the year, with each weekend playing host to a new one. St John’s Eve (23 June) signifies the start of summer; streets are filled with Cuban music brought over by sailors in the 19th century, fireworks light up the night sky and much cava is sipped in celebration.

6After a night spent sashaying in the streets, bed down at one of the plush waterfront hotels. First designed by a disciple of Gaudí, Casa Vilella

Hotel has retained its art nouveau elegance while adding a flutter of modern touches. hotelcasavilella.com