The best towns in the Maresme to live in: a lifestyle guide
The Maresme is the stretch of coastline that extends north-east of Barcelona, between the sea and the coastal hills. Its towns share beaches, climate and good connections with the city, yet they are less alike than they may seem from the motorway. Choosing well depends above all on three questions: how close you need to be to Barcelona, whether you would rather live by the sea or in the hills inland, and what type of home you are looking for.
In this guide, the BARNES Barcelona team explores the towns of the Maresme from the perspective of those who wish to live in them, not simply visit them.
Baix Maresme and Alt Maresme: two ways of living in the county
The county is usually divided into two areas. The Baix Maresme, closer to Barcelona, is home to the municipalities with the highest demand for prime residential property and a pace of life closely tied to the city. The Alt Maresme, from Mataró northwards, offers towns with a stronger seafaring identity, entry prices that are generally more moderate and a more pronounced sense of retreat.
To this north–south division another, equally important one must be added: that between the towns "de mar" (by the sea) and the towns "de dalt" (up in the hills). Many coastal municipalities have a hillside twin, such as Vilassar de Mar and Vilassar de Dalt, Premià de Mar and Premià de Dalt, or Arenys de Mar and Arenys de Munt. The former offer life along the seafront promenade; the latter, greater tranquillity, views and houses with gardens.
Towns in the Baix Maresme: close to Barcelona
Montgat and Tiana
These are the gateway to the Maresme. Montgat is home to Hamelin-Laie International School, one of the leading international schools in the area, which makes it a natural choice for families. Tiana, set on the hillside and surrounded by vineyards, offers a peaceful residential setting just a short distance from the city.
El Masnou
With its marina and seafaring tradition, El Masnou combines village life, the beach and a very direct connection with Barcelona. It is a fine choice for those who wish to walk to the sea and have everyday amenities close at hand.
Alella, Teià and Cabrils
Together they form the heart of the Baix Maresme's prime residential estates: houses with gardens and pools, sea views and green surroundings. Alella lends its name to the DO Alella designation of origin, one of the smallest and closest to Barcelona. We have compared these three municipalities in detail in our dedicated guide on which to choose as a place to live.
Premià and Vilassar, de Mar and de Dalt
The seaside centres offer beaches and an urban atmosphere; the hillside ones, quiet streets, detached houses and access to the Parc de la Serralada Litoral. Vilassar de Dalt and Premià de Dalt are particularly appreciated by families seeking space without straying too far.
Cabrera de Mar
A small, residential municipality with hillside estates and open views over the Mediterranean. It appeals to those seeking discretion between the Baix Maresme and Mataró.
Mataró: the county capital
Mataró is the Maresme's service hub: shops, healthcare, schools and a port. As a place to live, its main interest lies in the practical support it provides to the surrounding towns, although its seafront and certain residential areas also offer quality properties.
Towns in the Alt Maresme: more sea and more calm
Sant Andreu de Llavaneres and Sant Vicenç de Montalt
These are two of the municipalities most sought after by prime buyers. Llavaneres boasts Port Balís, one of the leading marinas on the coast, and a golf course, as well as estates with sea views. Sant Vicenç de Montalt shares this peaceful residential profile.
Caldes d'Estrac
Known for its thermal waters, "Caldetes" is a small, elegant town with historic summer residences and a particularly pleasant beachfront.
Arenys de Mar and Arenys de Munt
Arenys de Mar has one of the most active fishing and leisure ports in the county and a historic centre full of character. Arenys de Munt, inland, offers houses with land and a more rural setting.
Sant Pol de Mar and Canet de Mar
Sant Pol is one of the most charming towns in the Maresme: whitewashed streets by the sea, coves and a truly Mediterranean atmosphere. Canet de Mar adds Modernista heritage and a very complete village life.
Which Maresme town suits your lifestyle?
| Profile | Towns to consider | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Family with children at an international school | Montgat, Tiana, Alella, El Masnou | Proximity to schools and to Barcelona |
| House with garden, pool and views | Alella, Teià, Cabrils, Cabrera de Mar, Llavaneres | Established hillside estates |
| Seaside living, on foot | El Masnou, Vilassar de Mar, Caldes d'Estrac, Sant Pol de Mar | Town centres with seafront promenade and amenities |
| Sailing and sport | El Masnou, Sant Andreu de Llavaneres, Arenys de Mar | Marinas and, in Llavaneres, golf |
| More land and a rural setting | Vilassar de Dalt, Arenys de Munt | Houses with plots and access to natural parks |
Getting around: the key to living in the Maresme
The Maresme's main advantage over other coastal destinations is its connection with Barcelona. The Rodalies R1 line runs the length of the coast, while the C-32 motorway and the N-II road link the county together. Even so, actual journey times vary considerably depending on the town, the time of day and your destination in Barcelona. We recommend testing the journey at rush hour before making a decision.
Nature and lifestyle
The Maresme has five marinas along its coastline, making it a natural base for those who sail. Behind the coast, the Parc de la Serralada Litoral and the Parc del Montnegre i el Corredor offer hiking and cycling routes just minutes from home. Add to this the vineyards of the DO Alella, a strong gastronomic offering and the proximity of Barcelona airport.
What to check before buying a house in the Maresme
- Orientation and views: on the hillside, a few metres can make a great difference to the light and the sea view.
- Gradient and access: some estates have very steep streets; consider long-term accessibility.
- Noise: proximity to the railway line or the N-II may affect some frontline properties.
- Condition of the estate: services, maintenance and any upkeep fees.
- Documentation: certificate of occupancy (cédula de habitabilidad), energy performance certificate and planning compliance of pools and extensions.
Live the Maresme with BARNES
The BARNES Barcelona team knows every municipality on the Costa de Barcelona and can help you compare towns, estates and properties according to your lifestyle. If you are looking for a home in the Maresme, contact us to receive a personalised selection. If you are an owner, request a confidential valuation of your property.
Frequently asked questions about the towns of the Maresme
Which is the best town in the Maresme to live in?
There is no single answer. For families with daily ties to Barcelona, Montgat, Tiana, Alella and El Masnou stand out; for houses with views, Teià, Cabrils or Sant Andreu de Llavaneres; for life by the sea, Caldes d'Estrac or Sant Pol de Mar.
What is the difference between the Alt and the Baix Maresme?
The Baix Maresme is closer to Barcelona and accounts for the greatest demand for prime residential property. The Alt Maresme, from Mataró northwards, offers quieter towns with a stronger seafaring character.
What is the capital of the Maresme?
Mataró is the county capital and the area's main service hub.
Which towns in the Maresme are the most charming?
Sant Pol de Mar, Caldes d'Estrac, Arenys de Mar and the historic centres of Alella and Vilassar de Dalt are among the most highly regarded.
Are there international schools in the Maresme?
Yes. Hamelin-Laie International School is located in Montgat, and the Baix Maresme offers reasonable access to other international schools in the Barcelona area.
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