Introducing Vilafranca del Penedès

Vilafranca is larger and more interesting than Sant Sadurní, with appealing narrow streets lined with medieval mansions. The mainly Gothic Basilica de Santa Maria stands at the heart of the old town. Begun in 1285, it has been much restored. There are sunset visits to the bell tower in summer, complete with a glass of cava; arrange at the tourist office.

The basilica faces the Museu de les Cultures del Vi de Catalunya across Plaça de Jaume I. Housed in a fine Gothic building, a combination of museums here cover local archaeology, art, geology and bird life, along with an excellent section on wine.

A statue on Plaça de Jaume I pays tribute to Vilafranca’s famous castellers, who do their thing during Vilafranca’s lively Festa Major (main annual festival) at the end of August.