Nestled on the Costa Barcelona, Sitges is a vibrant and picturesque town that is renowned for its stunning beaches, artistic heritage and lively cultural scene.
The town is also famous for its eclectic events calendar which includes events such as Sitges Carnaval, Sitges International Film Festival, and its Pride celebrations in June which have been voted among the best in the world. With a thriving gastronomy scene, premium holiday options fit for superstars, and a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and accessibility, Sitges is asserting itself as one of the top destinations to visit in 2025.
WEDDING PLANNERS CHOOSE SITGES TO TIE THE KNOT
According to Expertus Tourism and Leisure consulting firm, Sitges hosts over 400 weddings annually, with a quarter of these being international couples who are tying the knot. This wedding tourism generates an impressive economic impact of €8.5 million for local businesses each year. Notably, foreign weddings contribute the most to the local economy due to the longer stays and higher spending they entail. The influx of international couples not only brings substantial economic benefits but also helps deseasonalise tourism to Sitges, maintaining steady economic influx throughout the year and diversifying the town’s appeal beyond a traditional beach holiday destination.
SITGES UNDERLINES COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE TOURISM HAVING BEEN RECOGNISED AS A BIOSPHERE GOLD DESTINATION
Sitges has made significant strides in sustainable tourism which has culminated in the seaside town being recognised as a Biosphere Gold destination. This prestigious certification highlights Sitges’ commitment to balancing tourism with environmental protection, social responsibility, and economic sustainability. The town has implemented various initiatives aimed at conserving its natural resources and promoting responsible tourism practices. Key efforts include enhancing waste management systems, improving energy efficiency, and actively involving local communities in decision-making processes related to tourism development. Sitges aims to maintain this certification by continuously improving its sustainability indicators, thereby setting a benchmark for other destinations to follow
SITGES RENEWS BLUE FLAG STATUS ON NINE OF ITS BEACHES, THE MOST IN CATALONIA
Sitges reaffirms its status as a leading beach destination with the renewal of Blue Flag distinction for nine of its beaches, the most of any destination in Catalonia. The beaches that have earned the Blue Flag status include Les Botigues, Garraf, Aiguadolç, Balmins, Sant Sebastià, La Ribera, L’Estanyol, La Barra, and Terramar. The Blue Flag is awarded based on strict criteria regarding environmental sustainability, water quality, safety measures, and accessibility. For the second consecutive year, Sitges has maintained this top position among Catalonian municipalities and highlights not only the beauty of the beaches but also the commitment to maintaining high standards for both visitors and the environment.
PORT DE SITGES AIGUADOLÇ MAKES WAVES IN COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY
Port de Sitges Aiguadolç is making waves with its commitment to sustainability and its vibrant cultural offerings. Visitors can explore the port’s eco-friendly innovations, including cutting-edge reusable towers made from 100% recyclable materials, sourced from ocean waste, and equipped to optimise water and energy usage. This commitment to sustainability is consolidated with the fact that with every tower installed, a tree is planted. The port also boasts solar panels, electric vehicle chargers, and improved accessibility for people with reduced mobility. In line with its sustainability efforts, the port supports traditional sustainable fishing through its collaboration with the Sant Elm Fishermen’s Guild and also works with organisations like the Adapted Sailing School and Cetácea Association, promoting marine conservation and social inclusion. Cultural events taking place at the port in 2025 include the “Concerts de Mitjanit” festival, offering free nightly music performances, and the Sitges Classic Sailing Regatta entering its fourth edition in 2025.
AWARD-WINNING MALVASIA WINE AND ITS FASCINATING LINK TO SANT JOAN BAPTISTA HOSPITAL
Nestled in the heart of Sitges, the Sitges Malvasia Interpretation Centre (CIM) is a remarkable venue that combines the rich history of Malvasia wine with a commitment to social work. Inaugurated in April 2019, this unique centre, managed by the Sitges Sant Joan Baptista Hospital Foundation, plays a vital role in preserving the legacy of this decorated wine, originally brought to Sitges from Greece in the 15th century. The centre not only produces award-winning Malvasia wines, such as the acclaimed 2011 Malvasia Dolça, which won a Gold Medal at the 2022 Brussels Competition, but it also features a museum that highlights the wine’s significance to the town’s heritage. Additionally, the CIM has revitalised the historical Corral de la Vila, a traditional architectural gem, transforming it into a cultural hub that hosts independent festivals and attracts visitors from around the globe. Visitors to the Sitges Malvasia Interpretation Centre can partake in wine tastings, tours, workshops and events to discover the beauty of Malvasia wines, all of which generate funds and support the Sant Joan Baptista Hospital Foundation whose mission is to provide care for people in need. https://cellerdelhospital.cat/es/cim/
THE SITGES SLOW FOOD PHILOSOPHY
Sitges has pioneered its very own Slow Food philosophy, an initiative focused on sustainability, craftsmanship, and traditional gastronomy. The philosophy prioritises the use of local, seasonal ingredients and eco-friendly methods at fair prices for both consumers and producers. In Sitges, two notable restaurants, La Nansa and La Salseta, are part of the Slow Food Barcelona network and have received prestigious awards like the Cargol d’Or (Golden Snail) for their commitment to this culinary ethos. Visitors can also immerse themselves in Sitges’ Slow Food culture through various annual events. The Tapa a Tapa, which takes place in April and November, offers a gastronomic route around local bars and restaurants, while the Grape Harvest Festival in October celebrates regional wines. From November to April, the Xató Salad Route highlights traditional local cuisine, with set menus featuring the beloved Xató salad. The annual Sitges Malvasia Week further reinforces the town’s dedication to honouring its culinary heritage and takes place in November. https://www.sitgesanytime.com/es/que-hacer/gastronomia.htm
SITGES HONING IN ON PREMIUM TOURISM OFFERING
The seaside town of Sitges, located on the Costa Barcelona, is gaining attention in the premium tourism market, offering an array of upscale experiences for discerning visitors. Guests can stay in beautiful beachfront villas, such as the elegant Villa Sapphire or Villa Isla Cozumel, where they can enjoy the charm of historic properties alongside breath taking Mediterranean views. Sitges also features high-end hotel options, including the 4* MIM Sitges Hotel, owned by football legend Lionel Messi, renowned for its sustainable design and LEED Platinum certification. For a more exclusive stay, the 5* ME Sitges Terramar, with its acclaimed gastronomy and beach club run by Beso, a renowned dining group with establishments on Ibiza, provides a refined blend of seaside relaxation and gourmet dining. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby Terramar Golf Club, the second oldest in Catalonia, offering a unique opportunity to play with coastal views on a carefully curated course. Sitges continues to enhance its premium tourism appeal, combining historical elegance with modern, first-class amenities.
SITGES CEMENTS ITSELF AS THE TOP LGBTQ+ DESTINATION IN SOUTHERN EUROPE
Sitges Pride, renowned as Southern Europe’s most iconic seaside gay pride celebration, has gained global recognition being voted the best in the world in the small destinations category by thousands of users on GayCities.com, ranking in the prestigious gold category. This vibrant event attracts thousands of international visitors each year, drawn by Sitges’ rich LGBTQ+ history, which dates back to the arrival of Modernista artists in the 19th century. For those looking to explore the town’s cultural pride heritage, the Sitges Rainbow Tour provides an insightful journey through the key moments of Sitges’ LGBTQ+ history. Available in both English and Spanish, this tour guides visitors through emblematic locations, showcasing the impact of artists and celebrities who have shaped Sitges into one of the world’s top LGBTQ+ destination. Sitges hosts a number of other LGBTQ+ events throughout the year including Sitges Queer Fest in September, and Bears Sitges Week which brings over 7000 Bears from different corners of the globe to celebrate with recreational and cultural activities.
SITGES ENHANCES ACCESSIBILITY WITH STRATEGIC TOURISM PLAN
Sitges is taking a major step toward visitor inclusivity with the development of its Strategic Accessible Tourism Plan, designed to create a more welcoming and accessible destination for all visitors. The plan focuses on four key areas with 31 specific actions aimed at improving environments, services, and technologies to ensure usability by as many people as possible. Co-financed by the Barcelona Provincial Council and the Sitges City Council, this project follows the guidelines of the DTI Master Plan and the Sustainable Tourism Plan. The comprehensive study involved auditing both public and private resources, including heritage sites, cultural institutions, and natural environments. Public sector agents, disability advocates, and tourism stakeholders also contributed through interviews and surveys, helping shape a roadmap for a more inclusive future. The consultancy Equalitas Accessibilidad led the diagnostic and drafting of this ground-breaking plan and will culminate in Sitges being a destination accessible for all travellers.
SITGES CARNAVAL 2025
Scheduled for February 2025, Sitges Carnival is a dazzling celebration known for its colourful parades, elaborate costumes, and lively parties. Visitors can expect a week-long festivity featuring events like the Grand Parade, where extravagant floats and creative costumes take centre stage while the streets are filled with music, dancing, and a flamboyance like no other. Sitges Carnival provides a fantastic opportunity to experience local culture and enjoy the best Carnaval experience this side of the Atlantic Ocean.
INTERNATIONAL PATCHWORK FESTIVAL
Sitges is a place that champions art and nowhere is that more apparent than at the International Patchwork Festival which has been taking place every March annually since 2005. Visitors will have the opportunity to browse the patchwork pieces, ask questions, buy textiles and participate in workshops for beginners. This event has been gathering more and more interest on an international level bringing visitors from all over Europe. https://www.visitsitges.com/agenda/festival-internacional-de-patchwork-sitges-2025/
67TH EDITION OF BARCELONA – SITGES INTERNATIONAL VINTAGE CAR RALLY
Taking place in April, this rally features over 200 vintage cars cruising from Barcelona to Sitges, celebrating classic automobiles against a stunning coastal backdrop. Visitors can enjoy a festive atmosphere with food stalls, music, and opportunities to engage with like-minded car enthusiasts and admire the classical cars on show. Part of the charm of this event is that spectators will dress in a vintage style in accordance with the cars on display which will follow the coastal road from Barcelona to Sitges between mountains and the Mediterranean. https://www.rallybarcelonasitges.com/es/
CORPUS CHRISTI FESTIVAL
Visitors can enjoy the colourful celebrations of Corpus Christi in Sitges this June 2025. The town’s streets will be transformed into vibrant floral carpets, setting the stage for traditional processions and local festivities. This iconic event, declared of national interest by the Spanish government, is a unique blend of artistic expression, cultural heritage, and community spirit. Whether admiring the intricate flower displays or soaking in the festive atmosphere with parades along Sitges’ main streets, visitors will experience the beauty and charm of one of the Mediterranean’s most picturesque seaside towns. https://www.visitsitges.com/corpus-sitges-2025/
SITGES INTERNATIONAL FANTASTIC FILM FESTIVAL OF CATALONIA
Scheduled for early October, this festival showcases genre cinema, featuring premieres and discussions with filmmakers. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of horror, fantasy, and sci-fi, enjoying parties and themed events that highlight the creativity of the fantastical film industry. https://sitgesfilmfestival.com/es