Mataró travel guide

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Introduction to Mataró

Mataró, known for the incredible Can Marfà - Gènere de punt, is a travel destination with plenty to offer curious travelers. Home to a variety of natural beauty and architecture, a unique historical background, and a culture as rich as its population of more than 129.9 thousand people, Mataró is truly one of Spain’s highlights.

Whenever you're not exploring, relax at one of the many top-rated places to stay in Mataró.

To truly connect with the local scene, be sure to explore the cultural events, traditions, and historical highlights that define Mataró. You can access an updated list of events and important details on the official website of Mataró.

For those who want to skip past planning, consider checking out largest selection of custom travel packages to Mataró, designed to offer flexibility while showcasing the very best of the city.

But before you set your plans in stone, dive deeper into this guide to uncover insider tips, must-see spots, and the ideal times to visit. There’s much more to discover, and we’re here to help you make the most of your time in Mataró!

History of Mataró

Mataró, a coastal gem in {placeCity}, has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. Originally known as Iluro, it was founded by the Romans in the 1st century BC, serving as an important urban center. The remnants of this era can still be seen today, including the ancient Roman baths, which are a testament to Mataró's historical significance.

During the Middle Ages, Mataró evolved into a bustling market town, benefiting from its strategic location along the Mediterranean coast. The town's medieval roots are reflected in its narrow streets and historic buildings, such as the Santa Maria Basilica, which showcases impressive Gothic architecture.

The 19th century brought industrialization to Mataró, particularly in the textile sector. The first railway in the Iberian Peninsula, connecting Mataró to Barcelona, was inaugurated in 1848, marking a significant milestone in the town's development. This period of economic prosperity led to urban expansion and modernization.

Today, Mataró seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with modern amenities. Visitors can explore its vibrant cultural scene, beautiful beaches, and charming old town, making it a must-visit destination in {placeCity}.

Local culture and customs in Mataró

Mataró, a charming coastal town in Catalonia, Spain, boasts a rich cultural heritage and a laid-back Mediterranean lifestyle. One of the most cherished aspects of local culture is the celebration of traditional festivals, such as Les Santes, held in July. This festival features parades, fireworks, and music, providing an excellent opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in local traditions.

The people of Mataró are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness. When greeting locals, it's customary to exchange two kisses on the cheek, starting with the right cheek. Spanish is widely spoken, but Catalan is the primary language, and learning a few basic phrases in Catalan can go a long way in showing respect and earning goodwill.

Meals in Mataró are leisurely affairs, often enjoyed with family and friends. Lunch, typically the largest meal of the day, is usually followed by a siesta, which means many shops and businesses close in the early afternoon. Dinner is served later than in many other cultures, often around 9 PM or later.

When visiting religious sites, such as churches, it's important to dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. This respect for local customs will help ensure a positive and enriching experience while exploring the cultural gems of Mataró.

Currency information for travelers in Mataró

The local currency in Mataró, Spain, is the Euro (€). ATMs are readily available throughout the city, and most major credit and debit cards, such as Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments, local markets, and public transportation, where card payments may not be an option.

Many banks and exchange offices offer currency exchange services, but for the best rates, consider withdrawing euros directly from ATMs. Be mindful of potential foreign transaction fees and currency conversion charges from your bank. Budgeting for Mataró can vary, but knowing your spending habits and planning accordingly will ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Language tips for travelers in Mataró

In Mataró, the primary languages spoken are Catalan and Spanish. While many locals are bilingual, it's useful to know some basic phrases in both languages to enhance your travel experience. Greetings like 'Hola' (Hello) and 'Bon dia' (Good morning) are appreciated. When asking for help, 'Por favor' (Please) and 'Gràcies' (Thank you) go a long way. If you need to ask if someone speaks English, you can say 'Parles anglès?' in Catalan or '¿Hablas inglés?' in Spanish.

Most young people and those in the tourism sector have a basic understanding of English, but learning phrases like 'On és el bany?' (Where is the bathroom?) in Catalan or '¿Dónde está el baño?' in Spanish can be very helpful. Using a translation app can also ease communication barriers. Respecting and attempting the local languages can greatly enhance your interactions and experiences in Mataró.

Best time to visit Mataró

The best time to explore Mataró is during the spring and early summer months, from April to June, when the weather is pleasantly warm, and the tourist crowds are relatively low. During this period, temperatures typically range between 15°C and 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing without the sweltering heat of mid-summer. Additionally, the city's beaches, parks, and historical sites are more accessible and less crowded, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

Another excellent time to visit is in late September and October, when the summer heat has tapered off, and the Mediterranean Sea remains warm enough for swimming and water sports. This shoulder season also avoids the peak tourist months, providing a more intimate and enjoyable visit. Events such as the Festa Major de Mataró, celebrated in late July, offer a unique cultural experience with parades, fireworks, and traditional Catalan festivities, though this period sees higher visitor numbers.

Winter months, particularly December and January, are quieter and cooler, with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 15°C (41°F to 59°F). While some outdoor activities may be limited, this time of year provides a peaceful environment to explore the city's museums, markets, and architectural landmarks without the hustle and bustle of peak season.

Weather in Mataró

Mataró, located in the Catalonia region of Spain, enjoys a Mediterranean climate characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. During the summer months, temperatures typically range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F), with July and August being the hottest months. The coastal proximity provides a refreshing sea breeze that tempers the heat somewhat, making outdoor activities more enjoyable.

In contrast, winters in Mataró are relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dipping below 5°C (41°F). December and January are the coldest months, but the weather remains generally pleasant. Rainfall is more common in the winter and fall months, peaking in October and November, so travelers should bring appropriate rain gear if visiting during this time.

Spring and autumn offer moderate temperatures, making these seasons ideal for exploring the city's outdoor attractions. Spring temperatures average between 15°C and 20°C (59°F to 68°F), while autumn temperatures hover around 18°C to 24°C (64°F to 75°F). Overall, Mataró's climate is conducive to year-round travel, with each season offering its own unique charm.

Local tip for visiting Mataró

For an authentic Mataró experience, head to the local markets, specifically the Mercat de la Plaça de Cuba. This bustling market is a hidden gem often overlooked by tourists but cherished by locals. The market not only offers fresh, high-quality produce but also serves as a social hub where you can truly immerse yourself in the local culture. An insider tip: visit the market early in the morning to catch the freshest offerings and witness the vibrant, lively atmosphere as locals go about their daily shopping. Additionally, don’t miss the opportunity to try the local delicacies from the small food stalls within the market. They offer a range of traditional Catalan snacks and meals that are both delicious and reasonably priced. Engaging with the vendors, who are more than happy to share stories and recommendations, adds an enriching layer to your visit. This slice of everyday life in Mataró provides a deeper connection to the city and its people, making your trip uniquely memorable.

Top services in Mataró

On this page, you'll find all the top travel services in Mataró, Spain. Enjoy the convenience of planning and booking every detail of your trip to Mataró, including flights, accommodations, activities, and more, in one place.

Discover the cheapest and most popular flights offered by a variety of airlines that fly to Spain. Check out the best things to do in Mataró. Compare the rates and services of the 7 types of stays and 1 car rental companies offering CDW insurance coverage.

Experience the best of Mataró with an expertly curated and fully customizable itinerary. Get answers to questions about the routes and services offered in Mataró from our free 24/7 customer support. We make it easy for you to find and book every detail of your trip to Mataró with this travel guide.

Continue reading this Mataró travel guide to learn how you can enjoy a stress-free and memorable vacation in the city of Mataró!

Learn more about Spain

With destinations such as Mataró, a trip to Spain needs no further explanation. Spanning over 505,990 square kilometers, Spain is an expansive playground of discovery, offering a wealth of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and captivating experiences awaiting exploration. From bustling metropolises to historic towns and modern urban hubs, Spain has something to enchant every traveler.

In Mataró alone, travelers are spoiled for choice with an array of experiences and world-famous attractions such as Basílica de Santa Maria de Mataró, Nau Gaudí, and Can Marfà - Gènere de punt. Thus, a trip to Spain becomes essential. Whether you're drawn to historical sites, natural wonders, or vibrant cultural experiences, Spain offers an abundance of treasures waiting to be discovered.

There's so much to explore and uncover in Spain. Click or tap the link below to discover more about Spain and its offers.

What to see in Mataró

boat sailing off Mataro's beach

Expect an exhilarating journey through Mataró, a haven brimming with attractions to suit every traveler’s taste. From historical landmarks to natural wonders, and delectable cuisine, Mataró offers an abundance of experiences waiting to be discovered. Dive into this ultimate Mataró travel guide to uncover must-visit spots and get the scoop on what makes the city so special.

Top attractions in Mataró

With its blend of traditional and modern culture, Mataró is more than just a wonderful city in Spain. It's a hub for diverse experiences, boasting top attractions that range from historical landmarks to modern marvels, offering a glimpse into Spain's rich heritage and innovative spirit.

One popular place to visit in Mataró is the unforgettable Basílica de Santa Maria de Mataró. Considered one of the most well-known attractions in the city, a visit to this spectacular travel destination is something you shouldn't miss on your trip to Mataró.

For more information about what you can expect during a vacation in Mataró, check out our list of top attractions below.

Map of attractions

Take a closer look at the city map below for the exact locations of all the top attractions in Mataró.

Vacation packages in Mataró

angel over Miguel Mataro funerary monument, Llucmajor cemetery, Mallorca, Balearic Islands, Spain

Booking a vacation package to Mataró means spending less time planning and more time enjoying your vacation. A vacation package includes everything from flight tickets, accommodation, and a rental car to 24/7 personal travel support and a carefully planned travel itinerary. You can also take your vacation in Mataró to the next level by adding tours, tickets, and activities to each day of your trip.

Apart from providing everything you need to travel comfortably, travel packages to Mataró also offer full customization. In other words, you can add or remove services at your own convenience to create the perfect vacation for you and your travel companions.

Continue to the next section of this complete Mataró travel guide to explore further details about the vacation options available for your trip to the city.

Popular types of vacations in Mataró

The most popular way to experience Mataró is by visiting the city as part of a road trip across multiple destinations in Spain. However, it is also common for travelers to go on holiday to Mataró on both shorter and longer getaways to get a break from everyday life, relax, and experience something new.

With Guide to Europe, you can find road trips, city breaks, and weekend getaways in Spain, ranging from budget to luxury. Whether you’re planning a multi-day road trip across Spain, or you just want to enjoy a few days exploring Mataró, there is a vacation package for you. Check out the top travel itineraries in Mataró for more inspiration.

Explore the popular types of travel packages to Mataró below. Click on any to delve into the details and effortlessly plan your dream getaway.

Top vacation packages in Mataró

Top-rated travel packages to Mataró allow you to experience a memorable journey. These packages offer customizable features, ensuring you're guaranteed to have an immersive exploration through the heart of Mataró and beyond. Browse a couple of options to uncover the finest ways to explore the city with ease and excitement.

For an epic vacation, discover Mataró and other top destinations in Spain on a top-rated holiday like the 10-Day Spain Beach Holiday in Calella With Itinerary. If Fonts de Santa Susanna, Lighthouse Calella, Nau Gaudí, Parc de Can Jalpí, and Basílica de Santa Maria de Mataró are on your bucket list, this is the perfect vacation package for you.

Get more Mataró vacation ideas by continuing to read this Mataró travel guide and discover the greatest selection of travel packages in Europe. Scroll down to find the best vacation packages in Spain that match your needs and budget.

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Find vacation packages in Mataró

Explore and compare 15 vacation packages, each offering unforgettable journeys to the wonderful city of Mataró. Be sure to act swiftly, as the best flights, accommodations, and activities in Mataró tend to fill up quickly. Use the search tool below to find the best travel deals in Spain. Your customized holiday package to Mataró is only a few clicks away!

Where to stay in Mataró

Promenade on the beach in Mataro

An essential factor to consider when traveling to a new place or country is accommodation. While visiting a city as fantastic as Mataró is always exciting, any avid traveler knows that accommodations often make or break the vacation experience. The best place to stay in Mataró usually depends on travelers' needs and preferences. However, booking accommodations in central Mataró offers a ton of benefits.

Staying in the heart of the city allows you to easily walk to many of the top sights and dining areas in Mataró and cut down on your travel expenses. Centrally located accommodations are also an excellent choice for travelers in Mataró planning to go on a quick tour or drive to the neighboring regions.

In Mataró, you'll find 7 different types of places to stay, catering to every taste, budget, and reason for travel. For example, honeymooners or travelers on a romantic getaway in Spain can experience the ultimate relaxation at one of the luxury hotels in Mataró. Travelers whose purpose is sightseeing can also find plenty of mid-range and budget-friendly hotels in the city, allowing access to many of the top attractions in Mataró.

Learn more about the most popular places to stay and the top-rated hotels in Mataró in the following sections.

Popular types of accommodation in Mataró

A trip to Mataró means opportunities to relax at any of the 7 different types of places to stay in the city. While each type offers varying amenities and rates, there is no denying that Mataró provides a great selection of lodging options ready to cater to every kind of guest.

Among all the choices available in the city, Haromar is one of the top picks of travelers in Mataró. Haromar is a 2-star stay with an average rating of 5,615 stars out of 5 from 4 guests. The hotel is located at Passeig de les Roques, 32, Calella and boasts many great utilities, including 24-hour front desk, air conditioning, and bar.

Budget accommodations are also incredibly popular among travelers in Mataró. Cheaper alternatives allow travelers to save on accommodation costs and have more to spend on other experiences.

In Mataró, travelers looking for an economical yet top-rated place to stay usually choose Rooms Pineda. For approximately 36 EUR, guests can book a comfortable single room at this popular vacation rental apartment, which also offers free wi-fi, airport shuttle, and more.

Below is a list of all 7 different types of places to stay in Mataró. Select the type you prefer to compare options under each category and find the best accommodation.

Top hotels in Mataró

Hotels are travelers' go-to accommodations in Mataró for the unique experience they provide. Besides offering basic amenities, many hotels in Mataró provide meals and extras, such as shuttle services, spa facilities, tour desks, and other services. But because not all hotels in Mataró are created equal, finding the best in the city often requires careful research. For your convenience, we've done all the research to make it easier for you to check out all the top hotels in Mataró.

Atzavara Hotel & Spa offers the most luxurious rooms and is perfect for travelers looking for the ultimate 5-star hotel experience in Mataró. If comfort, convenience, and affordability are your non-negotiables, check out Hotel Tahití Playa, the top 4-star hotel in the city. When all you need is a pleasant place to rest and sleep in between your activities in Mataró, the highest-rated 3-star hotel, Hotel President, is for you.

Below is our hand-picked list of the best hotels in Mataró. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as these hotels quickly reach capacity. Click the arrows or swipe the list to see each hotel's ratings, reviews, locations, rates, and more. You can read detailed descriptions of each hotel in Mataró by clicking the cards.

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Search for accommodation in Mataró

Finding the perfect stay for your visit to Mataró is made easy with our search tool. With just a few clicks, explore a range of available hotels and accommodations, complete with prices and amenities for easy comparison. Simply input your check-in and check-out dates, along with the number of guests and rooms needed. Start planning your trip to Mataró effortlessly now!

Car rentals in Mataró

Image of landscape of Mataro in the Spain.

To navigate Mataró effortlessly, renting a car is an excellent choice. With your own wheels, you can explore every nook and cranny of the destination without relying on public transportation and even venture off the beaten path. On our website, you'll discover a selection of over 1 car rental companies in Mataró, ready to provide you with the perfect vehicle for your travels.

Automatic cars for rent in Mataró start at 42 EUR per day or 294 EUR per week. The cheapest automatic rental car is a Nissan Leaf. If you prefer driving a manual car, you'll find multiple options for rent in Mataró, starting at 37 EUR per day or 260 EUR per week. The cheapest manual rental car is a Toyota Aygo.

Learn more about the different types of cars you can rent in Mataró, Spain below.

Popular types of cars for rent in Mataró

Renting a car in Mataró is a popular choice among travelers who want to explore the city at their own pace. A wide variety of popular car rentals are available to choose from in Mataró, ensuring you find the best car for your travel plans.

Check out all the options available and book your car rental in Mataró for your upcoming adventures in Spain below. All car rentals come with CDW insurance for added protection throughout your trip.

Search for car rentals in Mataró

Get ready to hit the road and explore the beautiful city of Mataró. Find the best deals on a variety of popular car rentals in Mataró, Spain, or any other destination in Europe by using the search tool below.

Enter your pick-up and drop-off location, driver's age, and dates. Click the green button to view your options.

Popular destinations to visit after Mataró

Beach Mataro

The city of Mataró is just one of the many unique and scenic destinations you can visit in Spain. So if you're itching for another cultural adventure, a relaxing road trip, an action-filled city break, or a memorable weekend getaway, know that Spain has it all.

Each destination in Spain offers something unique to experience! Take the opportunity to visit other captivating places in Spain that are as magical as the city of Mataró. The most popular travel destinations in Spain are listed below. Click on the name of the place you want to explore next to learn more about it.

All the best destinations in Spain

When unsure about where to go next, use the map below. This map shows the locations of all the best destinations in Spain. Use the map to plan your trip and find the best routes.

Transportation in Mataró

Mataró, a charming coastal city in Catalonia, offers a variety of transportation options to help you navigate its scenic streets and surrounding areas. The city's public transit system is efficient and user-friendly, with regular bus services connecting key neighborhoods, commercial centers, and tourist attractions. The Mataró train station is a vital hub, providing frequent and direct connections to Barcelona and other nearby cities, making it convenient for day trips and commutes.

Taxis are readily available throughout Mataró, offering a comfortable and direct way to reach your destination. You can easily hail a taxi on the street or find them at designated taxi stands. For those who prefer more freedom and flexibility, car rental services are abundant, allowing you to explore the region at your own pace.

A unique and delightful way to experience Mataró is by bicycle. The city is bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes and scenic routes along the coast. Renting a bike can be an enjoyable and eco-friendly way to see the sights. Whether you prefer public transit, taxis, rental cars, or cycling, Mataró's transportation options cater to all kinds of travelers.

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