A weekend in Rosas is possible from anywhere in France – and it's often a revelation. Rosas is 1.5 hours from Perpignan, 5 hours from Paris by TGV and 3 hours from Lyon. In other words, you can leave on Friday evening after work and be on the beach at Canyelles Petites by 10 am on Saturday. For a short stay that is as well organised as it is successful, stay in our Sea-view apartment with panoramic terrace or our Renovated flat in Canyelles Petites – self-check-in via a key safe allows you to arrive at any time. Here is our ideal itinerary for a successful weekend in Roses, Costa Brava.
🚗 Roses, ideal for a short break from France
Roses benefits from a unique geographical position: it is the first major seaside resort after the Franco-Spanish border. No need to cross all of Spain – you have arrived.
From Perpignan: 1.5 hours by car via the A9 and the N-II. From Toulouse: 3h30 via the A61 then the A9. From Paris TGV Paris to Figueres in 3h15, then Sarfa bus to Roses in 30 minutes. Total: under 4 hours door-to-door. From Lyon: 2 hours on the TGV to Figueres, then 30 minutes by bus.
Check out our Complete guide to coming to Roses for all detailed routes, timetables and fares.
💡 Advice: Depart Friday evening to gain a full day. Our self-check-in via key safe welcomes you at any hour – no waiting, no stress.
📅 Our Ideal Itinerary - 48 hours in Roses
Friday evening – Arrival and first contact with the sea
Arrive, drop off your luggage, and head straight down to Canyelles Petites beach – just 100 metres from our apartments. Even in the evening, the setting is magical: the lights of the bay, the scent of the Mediterranean, the silence after the journey. Dine in one of the Restaurants in Canyelles Petites Book in advance during peak season.
Saturday morning – Beach and Camí de Ronda
Waking up to the sea, breakfast on the terrace, then two options depending on your mood:
Relaxation option Take a seat Canyelles Petites beach From 9 am to get a good spot. Snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters, swimming, reading on the sand.
Active option: Go hiking on the Camí de Ronda to Cap de Creus. Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for the outbound journey from Canyelles Petites – the views over the bay are spectacular and the wild coves accessible along the way are deserted in the morning.
Saturday afternoon – Excursion to Cadaqués
The afternoon is ideal for an excursion to Cadaqués, just a 21-minute drive away. The most iconic village on the Costa Brava absolutely warrants half a day:
- Wandering through the white alleyways
- Visit to Santa Maria Church
- Swimming in a cove nearby
- If you have booked in advance: visit to the Dalí House-Museum in Portlligat (£15, booking essential at salvador-dali.org)
- Lunch or a snack on the terrace with a sea view
💡 Park in the pay-and-display car park at the village entrance. – In high season, it's practically impossible to park in the town centre.
Saturday evening – Dinner and evening in Roses
Back to Rosas for an apéritif on your terrace overlooking the bay – one of the best moments of the day. Then dinner at a restaurant on the Roses seafront. In the evening, the Roses promenade comes alive – bars, terraces, live music during the season.
Sunday morning – Market and Citadel
On Sunday mornings in Roses, it's market day. Do your shopping at the Covered market of Roses – Fresh fish, seasonal vegetables, anchovies from L'Escala, Catalan cheeses. An hour at the market and you'll go home with everything you need to cook a memorable meal.
Next, spend 1h30 visiting the Citadel of Roses – 2,500 years of history, from its origins as a Greek colony to a medieval fortress, with a panoramic view of the bay as the crowning glory. Perfect for children aged 7-8 upwards.
Sunday afternoon – Kayak or beach, then departure
Depending on your departure time, two options:
Late departure: Morning kayaking in the coves of Cap de Creus – the best way to end a weekend in Roses. Several providers offer 2-hour excursions departing from Roses.
Departure in the early afternoon: Last swim at Canyelles Petites, light lunch on the terrace, then on the road. Avoid departing on Sundays after 3pm in July-August – traffic jams at Le Perthus can be significant.
Plan your weekend around an event
Roses and its surroundings offer a events agenda very rich all year round. Some weekends are particularly memorable:
February – Roses Carnival (12-16 February) Five days of parades, floats and concerts in the streets of Roses. A festive and authentic winter weekend, with very attractive accommodation rates.
Mars – Tapas Route (13-22 March) Ten days during which a hundred restaurants in Roses will be offering a special tapa for €3.50 with a glass of DO Empordà wine. The perfect excuse for a gastronomic weekend.
April – Easter in Roses Pleasant sea, clear beaches, all activities open. Consult our Complete guide to Easter holidays in Roses.
July – Cantada d'Havaneres (first Saturday in July) The most magical musical event on the Costa Brava, on Port Bo beach in Calella de Palafrugell, 1.5 hours from Roses. 40,000 spectators, boats in the bay, hot cremat – an unforgettable experience.
July-August – Sons del Món at the Citadel of Roses Concerts by international artists (Zaz in 2026) in the Citadel of Roses and on a catamaran at sea. A unique blend of music, gastronomy, and Mediterranean landscapes.
October – Craft Beer Festival (October 11-13) A festive and friendly weekend celebrating the region's craft beers, right in the heart of Roses. Perfect for the late season.
💡 Our practical tips for a successful weekend
⚠️ July-August: Saturday to Saturday stays only During peak season (July and August), our apartments are rented by the week, from Saturday to Saturday. A 2-3 night weekend stay is therefore not possible during this period. For a short stay, favour June, September or October – more flexible availability, sea still pleasant and more attractive prices. Consult our September-October holiday guide to Roses to convince you that the late season is often the best option.
Friday evening or Saturday morning? If you're coming by car from the north, aim to leave on Friday evening – you'll avoid Saturday morning traffic jams and gain a full day.
The car remains useful: Even though Roses is accessible by TGV + bus, a car will give you the freedom to explore the coves of Cap de Creus, or to head to Cadaqués or the Aiguamolls without being constrained by time. And our apartments have private parking included.
Pack light: For a weekend, a cabin suitcase is enough. Our washing machine is available if needed.
Check the weather The Tramontane can blow hard on certain days. Plan for alternative activities (Citadel, Cadaqués, Figueres and its Dalí Museum) for those days.
🏠 Our apartments for your weekend in Roses
Our two apartments in Canyelles Petites are perfectly suited for short stays. Located 100 metres from the beach, with sea views, a terrace and private parking included – everything is in place for you to enjoy every hour of your weekend.
Note In July and August, stays are Saturday to Saturday only. For a 2-3 night weekend, we recommend June, May, September or October.
Self check-in via key box allows you to arrive at any time, without waiting. Book your holiday rental in Rosas directly with us., without service charge, to benefit from the best price guarantee.
❓ Frequently asked questions about a weekend in Roses
Is it possible to get to the Roses from Paris for a weekend trip? Yes – TGV Paris-Figueres in 3h15 then Sarfa bus to Roses in 30 minutes. Total under 4 hours. Or car via the A9 from Perpignan in 1h30.
Here's a possible plan for what to do in Roses over 2 days: ## Day 1: Coastal Charm and History * **Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM):** * **Explore Ciutadella de Roses:** Start your day at this ancient fortress. Wander through the ruins, imagine life centuries ago, and enjoy the panoramic views of the bay. * **Stroll along the Promenade:** After the citadel, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront promenade. Admire the colourful fishing boats, the sandy beach, and the bustling atmosphere. * **Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:30 PM):** * Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants overlooking the sea. Try some local specialities like *suquet de peix* (fish stew) or grilled sardines. * **Afternoon (2:30 PM - 6:00 PM):** * **Relax on the Beach:** Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun on Platja Gran, Roses' main beach, or find a quieter spot at Platja de l'Almadrava. You can swim, sunbathe, or try some water sports. * **Visit the Dolmen of the Creu:** A short drive or a longer walk inland will take you to this prehistoric megalithic monument. It's a fascinating glimpse into the area's ancient past. * **Evening (7:00 PM onwards):** * **Sunset Drinks:** Find a bar with a view and enjoy a refreshing drink as the sun sets over the Mediterranean. * **Dinner:** Explore the charming old town of Roses for dinner. You'll find a variety of restaurants offering everything from traditional Catalan cuisine to international dishes. ## Day 2: Nature and Views * **Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM):** * **Cap de Creus Natural Park:** Dedicate your morning to exploring the dramatic landscapes of Cap de Creus. This rugged peninsula is dotted with unique rock formations, hidden coves, and offers stunning coastal walks. * **Visit the Lighthouse:** Drive or hike to the lighthouse at Cap de Creus for breathtaking views. It's the easternmost point of mainland Spain. * **Explore Cala Jugadora or Cala Murtra:** If you enjoy hiking and swimming, seek out one of the beautiful coves within the park accessible by trail. * **Lunch (1:00 PM - 2:30 PM):** * Pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the natural beauty of Cap de Creus, or find a charming restaurant in one of the nearby coastal villages like Cadaqués (though Cadaqués is a bit further afield, it's a beautiful option if you have time). * **Afternoon (2:30 PM - 6:00 PM):** * **Roses Citadel Museum:** If you didn't get enough history on day one, visit the museum within the Ciutadella to learn more about the archaeological finds and the history of Roses. * **Market Visit (if it's market day):** Check if it's a market day in Roses (usually Tuesdays). It's a great place to buy local produce, crafts, and souvenirs. * **Optional: Roses Karting:** If you're looking for some adrenaline-fueled fun, Roses Karting is an option for an afternoon activity. * **Evening (7:00 PM onwards):** * **Farewell Dinner:** Choose a restaurant you haven't tried yet, perhaps focusing on tapas or a more formal dining experience to round off your trip. **Tips for your visit:** * **Getting Around:** Roses is best explored on foot in the town centre. For Cap de Creus and surrounding areas, a car is recommended, but local buses also run. * **Footwear:** Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially if you plan to explore the Citadel and Cap de Creus. * **Sun Protection:** The sun can be strong in this region, so bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. * **Hydration:** Carry water, especially during your explorations. * **Bookings:** For popular restaurants, especially during peak season, it's advisable to book in advance. Enjoy your time in Roses! The beach and snorkelling at Canyelles Petites, hiking the Camí de Ronda, an excursion to Cadaqués, visiting the Citadel of Roses, kayaking in the coves of Cap de Creus – the programme is full even for a short stay.
When is the best time for a weekend in Roses? June and September are ideal – pleasant sea, clear beaches, all activities open and more attractive prices than in July-August. But each season has its charm: Carnival in February, the Tapas Route in March, festivals in summer.
Is it better to come by car or by train? Travelling for a light weekend without the children – TGV + Sarfa bus, it's quick and stress-free. By car with children or if you want to explore the surroundings (Cadaqués, Cap de Creus, Figueres) – the freedom of movement is incomparable, and our apartments have free private parking.
Do the apartments accept short stays? Yes, subject to availability. Book directly on our website or contact us for short stay availability.