Things To Do
in Girona
Girona is a charming city located in northeastern Spain, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture. The city is surrounded by ancient walls and towers, offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Girona boasts a rich history dating back to Roman times, with highlights including the Cathedral of Saint Mary and the Jewish Quarter.
Visitors can explore picturesque cobblestone streets, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and experience a vibrant cultural scene in this historic city.
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Adiós" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $25
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $3.00
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $2.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the charming streets of the Old Town. Don't miss the iconic Cathedral of Girona and its impressive staircase.
After lunch, visit the Jewish Quarter and explore its narrow alleys filled with history. Make sure to check out the Museum of Jewish History for an educational experience.
Enjoy dinner at a local tapas bar, savoring some delicious Catalan cuisine. Take a leisurely walk along the Onyar River to enjoy the picturesque views of the colorful houses.
Begin at the Força Vella, the ancient fortress of Girona, surrounded by beautiful gardens. The views from the top are simply breathtaking.
Have lunch in the nearby plaza and then head to the Arab Baths for a glimpse of medieval architecture. Spend some time relaxing in the peaceful surroundings.
For dinner, opt for a traditional Catalan meal at a local restaurant. Cap off the evening with a visit to a terrace for drinks and sunset views.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and culture, with well-preserved medieval architecture.
- Beautiful natural surroundings, including the nearby Pyrenees mountains and Costa Brava coastline.
- A vibrant food scene, known for its Catalan cuisine and local markets.
- Ideal climate with mild winters and warm summers, attracting tourists year-round.
- Less crowded than larger cities like Barcelona, offering a more relaxed atmosphere.
- Limited public transportation options compared to larger cities.
- Higher cost of living in some areas, especially in the city center.
- Tourism can lead to seasonal overcrowding in peak months.
- Job opportunities may be limited for non-Spanish speakers.
- Potential language barrier for those not fluent in Catalan or Spanish.
Best Activities in Girona
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the picturesque landscape and diverse terrain of Girona on a cycling tour, taking in the beautiful countryside and charming villages.
Embark on a hiking adventure in the Gavarres Mountains, where you can discover scenic routes, lush forests, and stunning panoramic views of the region.
Experience the thrill of kayaking along the River Ter, immersing yourself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the scenic waterways in Girona.
Tours
Uncover the best of Girona with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Girona
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside.
Provides beautiful views of Girona's Old Town and the surrounding landscape.
Features a scenic overlook of the Onyar River and the colorful houses along its banks.
Food in Girona
Girona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Xató is a classic Catalan salad made with endive, salted cod, tuna, and arbequina olives, dressed with a rich and nutty romesco sauce. This dish can be enjoyed at numerous restaurants in Girona, such as Can Roca and La Penyora.
Must-Try!
Fideuà is a paella-style dish made with short noodles, seafood, and a savory broth, often enriched with saffron. For an authentic taste of Fideuà, visit Restaurant Massana or La Poma.
Leche Merengada is a refreshing beverage made from milk, sugar, and hints of cinnamon and lemon. This delightful drink is available at local cafes like Café de la Villa or Della Creps.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Girona better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of Girona, Mercat del Lleó is where the locals gather to purchase fresh produce, cheeses, meats, and other culinary delights. The market also offers a variety of street food stalls showcasing regional specialties like empanadas and churros.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Girona, Spain, it is important to respect the traditional siesta time, which is typically from 2 pm to 5 pm. During this time, many businesses may close, and it is advisable to keep noise levels down in residential areas.
When meeting someone in Girona, it is customary to greet them with a kiss on each cheek, starting with the left cheek. This form of greeting is common among friends and acquaintances.
When dining in Girona, it is polite to wait for the host to initiate the meal and to keep your hands visible on the table. Additionally, it is considered respectful to finish everything on your plate.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Girona with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Girona
Ensure a smooth experience
In Girona, Spain, tipping is not obligatory, but it is appreciated in restaurants and bars. A common practice is to round up the bill or leave a 5-10% tip for good service.
In Girona, Spain, cash is widely accepted, but credit and debit cards are also commonly used for payments. Contactless payment methods are increasingly popular, and most establishments, including small vendors, accept card payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Girona.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Girona as the weather is mild and the countryside is in full bloom. Expect outdoor events and festivals like the Temps de Flors.
Ideal for beach lovers as the coastal areas near Girona are popular during this season. Expect hot and sunny weather.
Another great time to visit with comfortable temperatures and the landscape painted in autumn colors. Expect fewer crowds compared to the summer months.
Milder winters compared to other parts of Europe with occasional rainfall. Expect Christmas markets and festive decorations in the city.
Girona at Night
Hiking in Girona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Montseny offers a variety of hiking trails with stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and the chance to explore the scenic landscape of the Catalan countryside.
This historical path runs through the scenic countryside near Girona, featuring a mix of natural beauty and engineering heritage. It is ideal for hiking and enjoying the picturesque views of the surrounding area.
Located near the village of Santa Pau, these gorges feature beautiful waterfalls and stunning rock formations. The hiking trails provide an excellent opportunity to explore the unique geology and nature of the area.
A popular hiking destination with routes that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The trails lead to picturesque spots like the church of Sant Aniol and the magnificent gorges.
This hike takes you to the summit of Puigsacalm, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the Pyrenees and the surrounding countryside. The trail is moderately challenging and suitable for experienced hikers.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Girona through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Girona by plane.
The main international airport serving Barcelona, located approximately 100 km south of Girona.
The closest airport to Girona, primarily serving low-cost airlines and short-haul flights.
Located in France, around 90 km from Girona, this airport serves both domestic and international flights.
Located about 130 km from Girona, this airport serves the Tarragona area and offers some international flights.
Approximately 400 km from Girona, this airport handles a variety of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, primarily native Catalans and Castilians.
A significant portion of the population identifying as Catalan, with a focus on regional culture and language.
Includes various groups, such as Romanians, Moroccans, and Colombians, contributing to the city's diverse cultural landscape.
A smaller group, primarily retirees and expatriates living in the region.
Includes citizens from other European countries, reflecting Girona's appeal as a travel and residential destination.
A growing demographic group, particularly from Morocco, contributing to local culture and economy.
The Soul of Girona
Discover the essence of Girona through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Girona, with the local team, Girona FC, competing in La Liga.
Basketball has a strong following in Girona, with several local clubs and a competitive league structure.
Given its scenic routes and favorable climate, cycling is a popular recreational activity and competitive sport in the region.
Athletics, including running and track events, is widely practiced in Girona, supported by various local clubs and events.
Handball enjoys popularity at both grassroots and competitive levels in Girona, with several active clubs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Girona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Girona's dining scene is increasingly accommodating to vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants featuring plant-based dishes. Notable choices include Vegetalia and Llevataps.
For those seeking gluten-free dining experiences, Girona offers several establishments such as Arroz y Peix and Occi Restaurant that provide dedicated gluten-free menus and knowledgeable staff.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Girona with these cultural adventures.
