What better way to get to know Penedès than by experiencing some of its traditions? During the Fiestas Mayores de Vilafranca del Penedès at the end of August, enjoy the amazing performances by the best “castells” (human towers) in Catalonia.

There are also big summer festivals in Sitges and Vilanova i la Geltrú, as well as nearly all the villages in the surrounding area, with spectacular entertainment, including fire and colour shows. Sitges also has the fascinating Corpus Christi celebrations in spring and the dazzlingly colourful Carnaval in winter.

You should try to catch some of the countless concerts and small events on in the region. Two of the most well-known are Vijazz, the wine and jazz festival held in early summer in Vilafranca, and Vinyasons, a festival of music, food and wine held in the wineries, where you can enjoy live classical music among the vineyards while sipping on an excellent cava.

As well as the festivals, you shouldn’t miss the traditional markets in the neighbouring villages. We recommend the big market in Vilafranca, which is on every Saturday, and the peach market in Ordal, held every weekend in summer.