Figueres: The Home of Salvador Dalí
This quirky town is best known for being the birth place of Dalí, but you will find much more than Dali memories. Located just north of Girona, it makes the perfect day trip from Barcelona or Girona. Read on for the best things to do in Figueres.
Who was Salvador Dalí?
Dalí was a Spanish Surrealist painter and printmaker, most famous for painting The Persistence of Memory (the melting clocks).
Dalí was born in Figueres in 1904, and started drawing lessons at age 10 before enrolling at the Madrid School of Fine Arts in his late teens. Dalí was then expelled and went on the visit Pablo Picasso to find some inspiration. Later Dalí went on to partner with filmakers and began designing jewellery and furniture. In 1974 Dalí then went on to complete one of his most important achievents: The Dalí Teatre-Museum.
What to see and do in Figueres
1. Visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum
“Where, if not in my own town, should the most extravagant and solid of my work endure, where if not here?” – Dalí
This is one of the most immersive museums I have ever visited! If you like Dalí’s work, this is a must visit, given he designed the museum. The museum is made up of several floors and ascends in a circular manner, making it easy to navigate through the maze of artworks. It’s also worth noting, the building itself is a work of art. It’s hard to miss this red building with eggs on top.
Top tip: Make sure you don’t miss Dalí’s jewellery exhibit just beyond the gift shop!
2. Go back in time at the Castell de Sant Ferran
Located a 20 minute walk away from the centre, you will find an 18th century military fortress. With a rich history and great view points, it’s well worth spending an hour or so here.
Castell de Sant Ferran offers a unique experience for those more adventurous. You can take a tour of the “The Cathedral of The Water”, starting with a trip around the fortress’s ditch in an off-road vehicle, followed with an exploration of the water tanks in a boat!
3. Admire the Esglesia de Sant Pere
This church was where Dalí was baptised. Located just outside the Dalí museum, it is a peaceful place to stop (and cool down in the summer). It is also free to enter.
4. Find Dalí’s work in the streets
You will see an array of statues and sculptures while wondering around Figueres. There are two unique sculptures worth looking out for:
- La Cara de Dalí, located just off of Carrer de la Jonquera
- Monumento a Salvador Dalí, located in La Rambla
5. See where Dalí’s family resided
This building was the residence of the Dalí family, when the great Salvador was born. It’s worth noting they lived just at number 6, on the ground floor, where the Dalí family had a notary.
You will see a plaque on the outside to commemorate the birth of Dalí in 1904. (You can see his tombstone in his museum.
If you want to find out more about Dalí and better understand his work, it is worth checking out the la Casa natal d’en Salvador Dalí museum.
6. Take a break in La Rambla
This small square is located in the centre of the town. This is a lovely place to sit and watch the world go by. La Rambla is also surrounded by lots of shops and restaurants, so there is a lot going on here.
7. Take a picture with the Figueres sign
Just off of Carrer Canigo, you will find les lletres se la ciutat Figueres. The letters make for the perfect insta worthy photo.
FAQ about Figueres
Should you book Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum tickets in advance?
I would recommend booking tickets in advance, especially if visiting during peak season. When I was there people were only able to purchase tickets for several hours later.
How to get to Figueres
Figueres is the perfect day trip from Barcelona or Girona. The easiest way to get to Figueres from Barcelona or Girona is via the train. The train runs regularly and the station is a walk away from Figueres centre.
You can also reach Figueres by car via the AP-7.
How long to spend in Figueres
A day is more than enough to see all that Figueres has to offer. It is also possible to visit both Figueres and Girona in a day from Barcelona, if you are limited on time.
Best time to visit Figueres
The best time to visit Figueres is during the spring and early autumn. The weather is mild and you will find fewer crowds. Where as in the summers it can be very hot, and the winters can be chilly.
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Looks like a cool little day trip kind of town! All the art would be fun to find around the city.
Definitely a fun way to spend the day if you find yourself in the area!
I loved Figueres and the Dali museum. The artwork visible from the streets was also a treat.
I love Dali. This is going on my list 🙂
The town certainly embraces their claim to fame -Dali. It looks like an interesting place to spend a day or two.