Where Do Foreigners Live on the Costa Brava? The Most Popular Areas to Buy Property

The Costa Brava has become one of Spain's most desirable destinations for international property buyers. Every year, thousands of people from France, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, the United Kingdom and many other countries choose this beautiful stretch of the Mediterranean coast as the perfect place to buy a holiday home, retire or invest in real estate.

But where do most foreigners choose to live on the Costa Brava? Which towns are the most popular, and why?

In this guide, we explore the areas with the highest concentration of international residents and explain what makes each location so attractive.

Why Do Foreigners Choose the Costa Brava?

The Costa Brava offers a unique combination of lifestyle, climate and investment opportunities that are difficult to find elsewhere in Europe.

Its main attractions include:

• More than 300 days of sunshine per year.
• A pleasant Mediterranean climate.
• Beautiful beaches and hidden coves.
• Safe and peaceful surroundings.
• Excellent gastronomy.
• Easy access to France and the rest of Europe.
• Girona Airport and proximity to Barcelona Airport.
• Outstanding golf courses, marinas and outdoor activities.
• A diverse property market suitable for every budget.

Whether you're looking for a permanent residence or a second home, the Costa Brava offers an exceptional quality of life.

Platja d'Aro: The International Hotspot

If there's one town that stands out among international buyers, it's Platja d'Aro.

Its beautiful beaches, vibrant shopping streets, year-round restaurants, marina and excellent leisure facilities make it one of the most cosmopolitan towns on the Costa Brava.

Foreign buyers particularly appreciate:

• A wide selection of apartments and luxury villas.
• Exclusive residential areas such as Mas Nou and Can Semi.
• Excellent services throughout the year.
• International schools nearby.
• Outstanding quality of life.

It's common to find French, Belgian, Dutch, German, British and Swiss residents living here permanently.

S'Agaró: Luxury and Elegance

S'Agaró is synonymous with luxury.

This exclusive coastal village is famous for its elegant villas, beautiful beaches and peaceful atmosphere.

International buyers choose S'Agaró for:

• Maximum privacy.
• Prestigious properties.
• Direct access to the Mediterranean.
• Beautiful surroundings.
• Excellent long-term property value.

The exclusive residential area of S'Agaró Vell remains one of Spain's most prestigious addresses.

Sant Feliu de Guíxols: Authentic Mediterranean Living

More and more foreign residents are choosing Sant Feliu de Guíxols as their permanent home.

The town offers:

• A modern marina.
• A beautiful seafront promenade.
• A charming historic centre.
• Excellent healthcare and public services.
• A rich cultural calendar.

Property prices are often slightly more affordable than in neighbouring towns while still offering an excellent lifestyle.

Calonge and Sant Antoni: Peaceful Coastal Living

Calonge and Sant Antoni have become increasingly popular with buyers looking for peace and tranquillity without sacrificing easy access to the beach.

Some of the area's most desirable residential communities include:

• Torre Valentina.
• Vizcondado de Cabanyes.
• Treumal.

Foreign buyers appreciate:

• Spacious villas.
• Large plots.
• Family-friendly neighbourhoods.
• Excellent value for money.

Palamós: A True Mediterranean Lifestyle

Palamós perfectly combines authentic fishing village charm with modern services.

International buyers are attracted by:

• The marina.
• Outstanding seafood restaurants.
• Beautiful beaches.
• A lively atmosphere throughout the year.
• Excellent local amenities.

The residential area of La Fosca is particularly popular among foreign homeowners.

Santa Cristina d'Aro: Nature and Privacy

For buyers looking for peace, space and nature, Santa Cristina d'Aro is one of the best options on the Costa Brava.

Popular residential areas include:

• Sant Miquel d'Aro.
• Les Teules.
• Golf Costa Brava.

These neighbourhoods offer:

• Detached villas.
• Large private gardens.
• Beautiful natural surroundings.
• A relaxed lifestyle.

They are especially popular with retired Europeans and families relocating to Spain.

Which Nationalities Buy the Most Property?

The Costa Brava attracts buyers from all over Europe.

The most common nationalities include:

• France.
• Belgium.
• The Netherlands.
• Germany.
• Switzerland.
• United Kingdom.
• Luxembourg.
• Scandinavian countries.

While many purchase holiday homes, an increasing number are moving permanently thanks to remote working and Spain's excellent quality of life.

What Type of Property Do Foreign Buyers Prefer?

Buying preferences vary depending on lifestyle and budget.

Apartments close to the beach remain one of the most popular choices for buyers looking for an easy-to-maintain holiday home.

Families often prefer detached villas with gardens and swimming pools in residential areas such as Mas Nou, Les Teules and Vizcondado de Cabanyes.

Luxury buyers are typically interested in seafront villas or properties with panoramic Mediterranean views in exclusive areas like S'Agaró, Torre Valentina and Les Bateries.

Is Buying Property in These Areas a Good Investment?

In most cases, yes.

Areas with strong international demand tend to maintain their property values more effectively and often benefit from higher long-term appreciation.

They also attract consistent demand for both permanent residences and second homes, as well as long-term rentals and, where regulations allow, holiday rentals.

Towns such as Platja d'Aro, S'Agaró, Sant Feliu de Guíxols, Calonge and Palamós continue to be among the strongest and most stable property markets on the Costa Brava.

Find Your Ideal Home with Immogrupstar

Choosing the right location is just as important as choosing the right property. Whether you're looking for a beachfront apartment, a luxury villa with sea views or a peaceful home surrounded by nature, the Costa Brava offers outstanding opportunities for every lifestyle.

At Immogrupstar, we specialise in real estate across Platja d'Aro, S'Agaró, Calonge, Palamós, Santa Cristina d'Aro and Sant Feliu de Guíxols. We assist both national and international buyers throughout the entire purchasing process, providing personalised advice and extensive knowledge of the Costa Brava property market.

Our carefully selected portfolio includes beachfront apartments, luxury villas, modern homes, new developments and exclusive properties in the region's most sought-after residential areas.

If you're considering buying a property on the Costa Brava, the Immogrupstar team will be delighted to help you find the perfect home and guide you through every step of the buying process with professionalism, transparency and local expertise.