Last Updated on 17 March 2026 by Vanessa
I’ve been to Sitges more than ten times, and one spot that keeps drawing me back is Cine El Retiro. It’s my favorite cinema in town, and the surrounding gardens make it a perfect place to enjoy a coffee or tea between screenings.
In this article, I’m sharing 7 reasons why Cine El Retiro should be on your Sitges itinerary, from the cinema itself to the stray cat colony and everything in between.
Whether you’re planning your day, looking for a calm spot to relax, or just want to experience a unique slice of Sitges life, this corner of town is worth carving out time for.
Why Cine El Retiro deserves a spot on your Sitges itinerary
1. A cinema that’s been part of Sitges for over a century
Cine El Retiro has been a staple of Sitges for over a century and is one of the oldest continuously operating cinemas in Catalonia.
From the start on 8 March 1908, it wasn’t just a place to watch films. It became a gathering spot for locals who loved both mainstream and more unusual, artistic movies. Its location near the old town and the beach made it easy to combine with a stroll or a coffee in the surrounding Jardins dels Retiro.
Over the years, the cinema became closely tied to the Sitges Film Festival. Famous directors and actors have presented their films here. This brought international attention to the Cine El Retiro.
The building itself has been updated and renovated several times. The seating, projection, and sound systems have all been modernized, but the cinema has kept its intimate atmosphere and classic architecture, so it still feels like a part of Sitges’ history rather than a standard multiplex.
In fact, with its balcony and single screening room, it feels more like a small theater than an actual cinema.
Today, Cine El Retiro is more than just a cinema. It’s a cultural hub where film, community, and local life come together—a place that gives visitors a sense of the town’s creative spirit.
2. A friendly cat colony
I knew I had to visit Sitges the moment my friend Gilles told me the town is full of cats—even ones that will rub against your legs inside the cinema.
A few years later, I finally made it to Sitges and got to experience the famous film festival.
Cine El Retiro, along with its surrounding Jardins dels Retiro and the outdoor bar, became one of my favorite spots during the festival. I returned almost every day, both to catch films and to have drinks with colleagues.
One of the highlights was meeting the much-talked-about stray cats of Cine El Retiro.
Most of them loved being petted—especially the tabby and the one with the black nose—and they weren’t shy around passers-by.
These cats depend on the kindness of locals for food and care. Each day, the same people return to spend time with them, and they make sure they have enough food and water.
📍 Visiting Sitges on a day trip? This walking tour is a great way to see the town’s most iconic sights while meeting the friendly cats that roam its streets.
3. Fundraising and community events
El Retiro is more than just a movie theater; it’s also an integral part of the local community.
The cinema is run by the Societat Recreativa El Retiro, a long-standing cultural association that regularly uses the space for community-focused events. That means the cinema regularly collaborates with local organizations and charities to host fundraising events, film screenings, and lectures in support of important causes.
During the Sitges Film Festival, the cinema becomes part of the wider event program, while at other times of the year it hosts things like local film series, talks, and performances linked to community groups.
4. Shaded gardens where you can sit down for a drink
One of the best things about Cine El Retiro is the surrounding Jardins del Retiro and its outside bar area, where you can enjoy a drink or some tapas before or after the film.
The space at the back is especially pleasant. During the day, the trees provide plenty of shade, making it a comfortable spot even in the warmer months.
In the evening, the atmosphere becomes more social, with people meeting up for drinks or dinner.
If you prefer something quieter, there are also corners where you can sit down with a book and take a break from the crowds.
There are also public restrooms in the Jardins that you can use free of charge, even when you’re not a client of the cinema or the bar.
📍 If you’re feeling particularly hungry, just around the corner from Cine El Retiro is La Guineu, my go-to spot in Sitges for tapas.
5. Live performances
Behind the cinema, the outdoor stage next to the bar hosts a variety of cultural activities throughout the year.
You’ll often find live music ranging from local jazz and indie bands to more classical performances. Dance groups sometimes perform here as well, from flamenco shows to contemporary pieces, and on weekends and during festival periods, the stage is also used for children’s animation and workshops.
6. Easy to reach from the beach and the old town
Cine El Retiro and the Jardins del Retiro are right in the center of Sitges, just a short walk from both the Old Town and the seafront. From the main beach promenade and the Monumento a Santiago Rusiñol, it takes just a couple of minutes to get there, and if you’re already exploring the narrow streets of the historic center, you’ll likely pass nearby without needing a detour.
The location also makes it easy to combine with other stops. You can go from the beach to the cinema in under five minutes, or stop here for a drink on your way between the Old Town and the shopping district.
If you’re visiting during the Sitges Film Festival, it’s one of the central screening venues.
There’s no need for transport to get here. Everything in Sitges is close enough to reach on foot.
7. Unique photo opportunities
As a cat lover, you won’t want to miss the chance to take some photos of these furry friends. The strays are friendly and used to human interaction, so they are the perfect models for your Instagram feed.
General information
Address
Cinema El Retiro Sitges, C/ Àngel Vidal 17-23, 08870 Sitges (Barcelona), Spain.
Schedule and tickets
For more info on screenings, visit the Cine Retiro Facebook page.
Final thoughts
Planning a trip to Sitges? Or do you have a favorite corner of the town you think I should check out? Leave a comment below.
If you’re looking for more ideas, take a look at my guide to the best things to do in Sitges.
Visit next: Prado Cinema
The Prado Cinema is another must-see movie theater in Sitges. Located just a few steps from Jardins El Retiro, this charming cinema specializes in independent and foreign films and is the perfect choice for cinephiles seeking something different from the mainstream offerings. With its commitment to showcasing a diverse range of films from around the world, the Prado Cinema is a true cultural gem in Sitges.
The Prado Cinema used to be the home of a cat named Nino (picture below), who unfortunately passed away in 2015.
Nino wasn’t just the resident cat of Cinema Prado; he was part of the official staff. He even had an employee badge, complete with his name and picture. His primary area of expertise was greeting cinema-goers near the entrance and brushing along their legs both inside and outside of the movie theater.
Don’t you think all cinemas should have feline employees?
Read more about Sitges
- Best hotels and places to stay in Sitges
- Sant Sebastià Sitges: complete visitor guide
- Meet Nosferatu, the feline mascot of the Sitges Film Festival
Text and photos by Vanessa Morgan
Photo 14 & 15 by Gilles Vranckx
