Mataro is a vibrant city set on the Mediterranean Sea and rich in Catalan history, culture and cuisine. It’s set on the sun-drenched Costa del Maresme and boasts beautiful beaches and unique cultural attractions. The Catalan Coastal Range frames Mataro and provides a perfect backdrop for hiking, cycling and other outdoor adventures.
Things to do in Mataró
Relax and enjoy the sunshine on Platja del Callao. Bask on the golden sand, swim in the Mediterranean Sea and order ice-cold beer and fruity sangria from the beachfront bar. Cross the river to Platja de Sant Simó to escape the crowds.
Admire works by luminaries like Picasso, Miró and Andy Warhol at the Museum of Contemporary Art. The museum is housed in a beautiful Art Nouveau building designed by famous Spanish architect, Antoni Gaudí. Soaring wooden arches support the industrial-style building, which is a protected Asset of Cultural Interest.
Discover beautiful Catalan landscapes in Montnegre i Corredor Natural Park. Set in the Catalan Coastal Range, the park protects more than 15,000 hectares of pristine pine forests and rolling farmland. Use well-marked hiking trails to explore the park on foot and visit attractions like the Vallgorguina Dolmen megalithic ruins and the Rucs del Corredor donkey stables.
You can find everything from gentle walks to challenging summit hikes in Parc de la Serralada Litoral. The park is set in the Catalan Coastal Range and studded with peaks, including the 536-metre-tall Turó de Céllecs.
Like the rest of the region, Mataro is passionate about Catalan cuisine. Dine at local restaurants and try authentic dishes like “escalivada” roasted red peppers drizzled with olive oil, “esqueixada de bacalla” shredded salt cod and “arros caldós amb llamantol” rice soup with lobster. Most meals start with “pa amb tomaquet” bread rubbed with fresh tomato and sprinkled with salt flakes. Finish with “crema Catalana” lemon-scented custard topped with a burnt sugar crust.
Getting around Mataró
Mataro is compact and easy to get around on foot. The city is 45 minutes from Barcelona by car or train. Barcelona–El Prat Airport is a one-hour drive away.