Sitges at Night
On my last trip to Europe, I noted that in Paris the evening meals don’t even begin until around nine or ten in the evening, and the actual night life starts around midnight, and the same, I’m assured, is true of Spain, especially in Sitges. In fact, I’m also told, if you want just a relaxing evening, to take a walk along the waterfront esplanade, then have a dinner (late by American custom), then adjourn to one of several open air cafes around eleven in the evening for a drink and watch people pass by. Since Sitges is largely known as a gay friendly town, if you’re straight and want a bar, you may have to take a look around for one that isn’t mostly aimed at a gay clientele; however, there are places that cater to a mixed crowd, such as Ricky’s Disco, on Sant Pau 25. They charge a cover and serve a mix of international gay and straight patrons. The nightspot is back from the beach on a fairly narrow street.
The next morning, if you haven’t been out too late (at least one club closes at 5:30 a.m.), then a look in at the museums might be fun. In Sitges, you’ll find the Museu Cau Ferrat, which features two 16th Century cottages joined together by the Catalan artist, Sasntiago Rusinol. When the artist died in 1931, he willed his home to the city, and the artwork their includes paintings by El Greco as well as Picasso. Taking a look at some fine art may in fact be the perfect counterpoint to the previous evening. Three’s also the Museu Romantic, which takes a stab at recreating family life in the 18th and 19th Centuries. You’ll find antique furniture and antique dolls here.
If you’re checking into one of the hotels Sitges has to offer its guests in February, you may be in time for Carnival, a highlight of the town. And, of course, if none of these appeal, you may always hit the beaches or simply sleep in and gather some needed energy for your second night in town.