- Mataró was the site of Spain's first railway line, which connected the city to Barcelona in 1848.
- The city is home to Iluro, an ancient Roman settlement whose remains are integrated into various archaeological sites throughout the urban center.
- Mataró holds a significant cultural tradition regarding the 'Les Santes' festival, which is considered one of the most important celebrations in Catalonia.
- The city's textile industry was so prominent in the 19th and 20th centuries that it earned the nickname 'the Spanish Manchester.'
- Architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, a key figure in Catalan Modernism, designed several notable buildings within the city, influencing its distinct architectural profile.
About Mataró
Mataró serves as the capital of the Maresme region, blending a rich Roman heritage with an active industrial legacy tied to textile manufacturing. Visitors can trace this history at the Can Marfà - Gènere de punt museum, which documents the city's status as a 19th-century weaving hub. The landscape is anchored by the imposing Basílica de Santa Maria de Mataró, which showcases impressive Baroque architecture. Outdoor enthusiasts frequently visit the nearby Castell de Burriac for panoramic views, while urban green spaces like Parc Central provide expansive areas for recreation. Its coastal position allows for a unique integration of Mediterranean maritime culture and historical inland sites.
Highlights of Mataró
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Historical places
Climb to these medieval castle ruins for expansive vistas across the Maresme coastline.
Temples
Examine the intricate Baroque interior and the neoclassical facade of this significant religious landmark.
Museums
Learn about the city's foundational textile history within this restored factory museum.
Historical places
View this iconic monumental sculpture that serves as a symbolic guardian at the city's entrance.
Museums
Explore the extensive archaeological collection detailing the Roman origins of the city, formerly known as Iluro.
Historical places
Visit this historical ice well to understand how ice was historically harvested and stored in the region.
Parks
Relax in this large public park, which serves as a primary green lung for the city's urban residents.
Top things to do in Mataró
The 567 highest-rated places in Mataró, ranked by travellers.
1
Parks
Jardí Botànic Marimurtra is a clifftop botanical garden overlooking the Mediterranean Sea in Blanes, Spain. Founded by G...
2
Parks
Parc polivalent Francesc Macià is a sprawling 40,000-square-meter park in Malgrat de Mar characterized by large-scale, w...
3
Parks
The Gardens of Saint Clotilde are a cliff-top botanical site designed in the Noucentista style by Nicolau Maria Rubió i...
4
Temples
The Església de Sant Romà is a distinctive architectural hybrid combining 16th-century Catalan Gothic elements with 20th...
5
Parks
Water World Parc is a sprawling waterpark located in Lloret de Mar, featuring a high concentration of aquatic attraction...
6
Parks
7
Historical places
8
Historical places
9
Places of interest
10
Museums
11
Places of interest
12
Parks
13
Parks
14
Historical places
15
Historical places
16
Historical places
17
Historical places
18
Parks
19
Parks
20
Beaches and ponds
21
Amusement parks
22
Places of interest
23
Parks
24
Historical places
25
Beaches and ponds
26
Places of interest
27
Parks
28
Places of interest
29
Parks
30
Parks
Explore by category
Jump straight to what you're into.
Mataró on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Mataró
Late spring to early autumn, specifically May through September, when the Mediterranean climate is optimal for exploring outdoor sites and beaches.
2-3 days, allowing enough time to explore the historic town center, local museums, and the surrounding Maresme hills.
The city is highly walkable in the center, with a local bus network connecting outlying areas and regional trains providing direct access to Barcelona.
The city center (Centre) provides the best access to historic landmarks and cultural spaces, while the beach area offers a more relaxed atmosphere near the seaside.
Mataró is a mid-range destination that offers more competitive pricing compared to neighboring Barcelona.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 567 curated attractions in and around Mataró, ranked by traveller ratings.
Jardí Botànic Marimurtra is the highest-rated place to visit in Mataró right now.
The largest category is parks, with 137 places to explore.
Travellers also explore Madrid, Vigo, Barcelona.
Explore more of Spain
Other cities ranked by number of curated places.
