Catalonia isn’t just about the buzz of Barcelona or the beaches of the Costa Brava – hidden among its rolling hills and rugged landscapes are villages that look as though they’ve stepped straight out of a storybook. From cobbled streets and Romanesque churches to arched stone bridges and ancient castle walls, these medieval gems offer a glimpse into a bygone era, untouched by time.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a photography lover, or simply craving a slower pace of travel, Catalonia’s medieval villages deliver charm in abundance. In this post, we uncover six of the most captivating medieval villages in the region – places where you can lose yourself in winding alleyways, soak up centuries of history, and experience Catalan culture at its most authentic. Pack your walking shoes and your imagination – we’re going back in time.

6 Best Medieval Catalonian Villages to Visit

1. Besalú

Province: Girona

Nestled in the foothills of the Pyrenees, Besalú is one of Catalonia’s most iconic medieval villages — and for good reason. Its 12th-century Romanesque bridge stretching across the River Fluvià is one of the most photographed sites in the region, a majestic gateway into a town steeped in centuries of history. Once a thriving Jewish and Christian settlement, Besalú still holds remnants of its rich past, including a medieval mikveh (Jewish ritual bath) and the ruins of an ancient synagogue.

Wander through its narrow, cobbled streets lined with stone buildings, and you’ll feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Artisan shops, quaint cafés, and traditional Catalan restaurants offer plenty of spots to pause and soak in the atmosphere. Don’t miss the Monastery of Sant Pere, a fine example of Romanesque architecture, or the fascinating Museum of Miniatures, a quirky and charming surprise in this timeless town.

2. Peratallada

Province: Girona

Peratallada is a true jewel in the Baix Empordà region, known for having some of the best-preserved medieval architecture in Catalonia. Its name literally means “carved stone,” a fitting tribute to the village’s impressive stonework, from its fortress walls and defensive towers to its winding, stone-paved streets. Unlike many tourist spots, Peratallada has retained its authenticity — there are no modern buildings to break the spell of its medieval magic.

You’ll be charmed by ivy-draped façades, flower-filled balconies, and atmospheric alleyways that open onto peaceful courtyards. The main square, Plaça de les Voltes, is the perfect place to sip a coffee or a local wine and watch the world go by. Visit in autumn for the annual medieval fair, when the village comes alive with period costumes, open-air markets, and street performances.

3. Rupit

Province: Barcelona

Perched on a rocky outcrop amid the lush forests of the Collsacabra mountains, Rupit is one of Catalonia’s most picturesque and off-the-beaten-path medieval villages. The stone houses here date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, but the village’s roots stretch even further, to the Middle Ages. A wooden suspension bridge leads you into the heart of the village — a hint that this place is as charming as it is remote.

Rupit is ideal for slow, scenic strolls. Expect steep lanes, moss-covered walls, and panoramic viewpoints over the surrounding cliffs and countryside. The nearby Salt de Sallent waterfall, one of Catalonia’s highest, makes for a great hike. In winter, mist settles over the rooftops, adding an ethereal quality to this already enchanting hamlet.

4. Pals

Province: Girona

Just a short drive from the Costa Brava, the hilltop village of Pals is a medieval wonderland that feels worlds away from the beach resorts nearby. The old quarter, known as El Pedró, is a maze of cobbled lanes, rounded arches, and towers built from golden stone that glows warmly in the Mediterranean light. Climb the Torre de les Hores (Tower of the Hours) for sweeping views over the Empordà plain and out to the sea.

Pals is not just beautiful, but also deeply cultural. The village is known for its traditional rice cultivation, and you can learn more about this heritage at the local rice mill museum. Be sure to sample some arròs de Pals a la cassola (rice casserole) at one of the village’s rustic restaurants.

5. Santa Pau

Province: Girona

Located in the heart of the Garrotxa Volcanic Zone Natural Park, Santa Pau is a hidden treasure set among extinct volcanoes and lush forests. The village itself is compact but rich in character, centred around a beautiful arcaded square and framed by ancient stone buildings and the remains of a medieval castle.

Santa Pau is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers, with countless trails leading into the surrounding volcanic landscape. The nearby beech forest, La Fageda d’en Jordà, is especially magical in autumn. After a day of exploring, don’t miss tasting the village’s most famous delicacy — fesols de Santa Pau (local white beans), often served with Catalan sausage.

6. Miravet

Province: Tarragona

Set dramatically on the banks of the Ebro River, Miravet is as striking as it is historic. Dominated by a towering Templar castle that clings to the cliffs above the village, this once-strategic stronghold has witnessed centuries of battles and conquests. The castle, originally built by the Moors and later expanded by the Knights Templar, is one of the best-preserved in Catalonia and offers spectacular views over the river and vineyards below.

The village itself is delightfully sleepy, with pottery workshops, old churches, and winding alleys that lead down to a scenic ferry crossing still powered by the river’s current. It’s the perfect place to immerse yourself in Catalonia’s medieval past, with fewer tourists than other historic towns in the region.