Things To Do
in Girona
Girona is a medieval city in Catalonia perched along the Onyar River with colorful houses lining the waterways. Its well preserved Old Town, Roman foundations, and dramatic cathedral create a compact, walkable urban landscape rich in history. The city serves as a gateway to the Costa Brava, offering easy day trips to coastlines, villages, and hiking trails.
Visitors can savor Catalan cuisine, explore historic sites, and enjoy riverfront views in a relaxed cultural setting.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day in the heart of Girona's Old Town, known as Barri Vell, where narrow medieval streets lead to stunning historical sights. Visit the iconic Cathedral of Santa Maria, with its impressive Gothic architecture and picturesque staircase. Take in the early sun as you meander through the cobblestone alleys, stopping at local bakeries for fresh pastries.
After lunch at a charming cafe overlooking the River Onyar, embark on a guided walking tour to discover Girona's Jewish Quarter, one of the best-preserved in Europe. Delve into the history of the Jewish community in Girona and explore the ancient synagogue and museum. Spend the late afternoon enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the city as you browse artisanal shops and enjoy street performances.
As the sun sets, treat yourself to traditional Catalan cuisine at a local restaurant, savoring dishes like 'pa amb tomàquet' and 'escalivada'. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll along the illuminated riverbank, admiring the colorful houses that reflect beautifully in the water. End your night with a drink at a rooftop bar, soaking in the panoramic views of Girona at night.
Kick off your day with a unique Game of Thrones tour, exploring several filming locations from the popular series in Girona. Meet your guide and learn fascinating trivia about the city's transformation into the fictional world of Westeros. Capture breathtaking views from the top of the city's ancient walls, which were used in many pivotal scenes.
After the tour, enjoy lunch at a medieval-themed restaurant that pays homage to the series and its rich history. Spend the afternoon visiting the Arab Baths, soaking in the serene atmosphere and learning about their historical significance. Stroll around the city, taking in the local art and culture as you visit various small galleries.
As evening descends, indulge in a food and wine pairing experience at a local vineyard, where you can sample regional wines and dishes. Enjoy the relaxed ambiance as you learn about the produce and culinary culture of the region. Wrap up your day by attending a live music event at a local venue, enjoying the sounds of Spanish guitar or flamenco.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee in city center | $2-4 |
| 🚆Public transit ticket | $2-3 |
| 🏨Hotel room (1 night) | $90-150 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich medieval architecture and walkable historic center
- Close proximity to the Costa Brava with day trip options
- Seasonal crowds in summer
- Some sites close midday for siesta; plan around opening hours
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "Quant costa?" - How much does this cost?
- "On és la Rambla?" - Where is the Rambla?
- "Parles anglès?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Girona
Visit one of these nice places.
An iconic iron bridge spanning the Onyar with reflections of the colorful riverside houses.
The bright facades along the river create striking symmetry and mirror images at dawn and dusk.
A grand staircase leads to the cathedral; excellent for wide cityscape shots.
Walk the medieval ramparts for dramatic skyline views over the old town and surrounding countryside.
Remnants of a 12th century bathhouse with atmospheric arches and stone textures.
Food in Girona
Girona Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A salt cod salad with tomatoes, onions, and olives found in many taverns and markets.
Must-Try!
Toasted bread rubbed with tomato and garlic, brushed with olive oil and salt; a simple staple to accompany meals.
Grilled spring onions served with romesco sauce; a seasonal specialty in markets and traditional restaurants.
A Catalan fish stew with seafood and potatoes, rich in flavor from saffron and olive oil.
Catalan pork sausage with mushrooms, a rustic dish common in local taverns.
A creamy custard dessert with a caramelized sugar crust, ideal after a long day of sightseeing.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Historic central market offering fresh seafood, fruit, vegetables, cheeses, and regional products; best in the morning.
Casual bites and tapas around the old town streets and plazas, offering quick bites and local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Catalonia a polite hello or bon dia is appropriate; cheek kisses occur among friends and family.
Dine at a relaxed pace; sharing tapas is common; wait to be seated in many traditional venues.
Keep noise low in residential streets and religious sites; photography rules may apply inside certain buildings.
Safety
Tipping in Girona
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is customary but not obligatory. A 5 to 10 percent gratuity is common for good service in restaurants.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted; cash is handy for markets and smaller shops; contactless payments are common.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures and bloom filled streets; ideal for city tours and photography without heavy crowds.
Hot days with larger crowds; plan outdoor activities for early mornings and evenings; stay hydrated.
Pleasant weather and fewer tourists; harvest time in nearby countryside and markets.
Mild and rainy occasionally; festive lights in December and quieter streets for exploring historic sites.
Girona at Night
Hiking in Girona
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Iconic beech forest within the Garrotxa volcanic zone offering gentle to moderate hikes.
A network of crater trails and green slopes suitable for day hikes and nature walks.
Coastal trails with sea views and access to coves along the Costa Brava.
Airports
How to reach Girona by plane.
Nearest airport to Girona; serves major European routes; accessible by bus or taxi to the city.
Major international hub about 100-120 miles away; direct train or bus connections to Girona are available.
French regional airport within reasonable driving distance; useful for certain low cost or seasonal flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A vibrant student community due to local universities and exchange programs, contributing to a cosmopolitan vibe.
Family friendly museums, parks, and safe pedestrian areas make Girona suitable for all ages.
International visitors attracted by medieval architecture, markets, and nearby Costa Brava towns.
Residents with Catalan identity who maintain strong culinary and cultural traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport with local clubs and possible matches to watch during your stay.
Hilly terrain and scenic routes make cycling a favorite activity for visitors and locals.
Beaches, forests, and foothills provide varied trails for runners and enthusiasts.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Girona.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
In Catalonia you can enjoy escalivada, roasted vegetables, cheeses, and egg dishes. Request no meat or fish in stews and ask for vegetable substitutes where needed.