The Best Guide To The Things To Do In Girona

by | Jan 21, 2019 | Spain | 4 comments

The Best Guide To The Things To Do In Girona
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I was honestly, yet very pleasantly caught by surprise by all the things to do in Girona.

Bridges, cobbled alleys, a mighty looking cathedral, fantastic restaurants and lovely small cafés, and an infinity of small boutiques that will be the blessing (or the curse, depending on how you see it!) for shopaholics: Girona, the main city of Costa Brava, in Catalonia is a gem, and frankly underrated.

You see, most people who visit Catalonia completely ignore Girona. I bet you are one of those, too. You fly to Girona on a budget airline and you immediately jump on a train or bus, headed to Barcelona which is only one hour away. And if you eventually decide to visit Girona, you go there on a day trip at most.

What a shame! With all the things to do in Girona, it’s actually a pity not to spend a few days there and I strongly advise you to pick Girona over Barcelona during your trip to Catalonia.

Girona was the starting point of my trip to Garrotxa, and I got the chance to visit it thoroughly. So, I thought I’d put together a guide on the nicest things to do in Girona, and a few tips to plan your visit.

Planning to spend longer in the region? Make sure to read my posts 17 Reasons To Visit The Volcanic Region of Catalonia, La Garrotxa and The Most Beautiful Hikes In Garrotxa: A One Week Itinerary.

Check out these tours of Girona:

what to do in Girona

One of the things to do in Girona is walking all the bridges. Pictured is the Pont de Ferro

20 Fantastic Things To Do In Girona

Cross all the bridges

Whenever I think of Girona I imagine the colorful buildings set along the Onyar river and the bridges to cross the river. It’s one of the most iconic pictures of Girona. There are eleven bridges that connect the two sides of the river, each of them different, and each of them giving a different perspective and slightly different view of the city. Needless to say, one of the things to do in Girona is walking its bridges.

Among the unmissable ones there is the Pont de Pedra, a beautiful stone bridge with three arches; and the famous Pont de Ferro, also known as Eiffel Bridge because it was planned by Gustave Eiffel and built in 1877, only two years after the construction of the Eiffel tower. If you are looking for what to see in Girona, this is definitely a must!

Then walk the city walls

If you want to get beautiful views of Girona other than those along the river, walk the city walls – it’s one of the ultimate things to do in Girona. A walk along the Passeig de la Muralla affords you views of both the Old City and of the newest part of town, and you can even see the Pyrenees in the distance.

There are three access points, one at the gardens behind the Cathedral of Girona, another by the Spanish Civil War Memorial, and the last one by the Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants. You can start in one and finish on the other. It takes between one and two hours to walk the walls, depending on how often you stop.

The walls are part Roman and part dating to the 14th century, and there are various watchtowers along them, from where you can get even better views. The best time to walk along the walls is the early morning or the late afternoon – so that you can either enjoy sunrise or the beautiful sunset light.

TIP: Once you get to the Cathedral, make sure to continue walking to get all the way to the Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants, on the last section of the walls: there are way less people on this section, and the views are stunning. You won’t regret lingering a little longer: it’s one of the nicest things to do in Girona.

Go to the Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants

Visiting Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants is one of the best things to do in Girona. This is a fantastic example of Romanesque style architecture, as there are many in Catalonia. It was built in the 12th century, though there is evidence that the original structure was actually built in the 10th century.

what to do in Girona

The beautiful Cathedral of Girona is a must see. The nearby tower is that of Sant Feliu Basilica.

Visit the Cathedral

The Catedral de Santa Maria is one of the landmarks of Girona. It was built between 11th and the 18th century in a mix of styles which include Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque. 90 steps lead to the Cathedral, and a lot of people love taking photos of them and on them.

Inside the church there are beautiful stained glasses and the Cathedral Treasury Museum, where the masterpiece is the Tapís de la Creació (Tapestry of Creation), a Romanesque embroidered panel dating back to the 11th century that is incredibly well preserved.

With so much to see outside and inside the church, it’s hardly surprising that visiting the Cathedral is one of the things to do in Girona.

Then the Basilica de Sant Feliu

Right next to the Cathedral there’s the beautiful Basilica de Sant Feliu, which used to be Girona’s cathedral until the current one was built. It’s a good mix of Gothic and Baroque styles. Since it’s so close to the Cathedral, visiting is one of the things to do in Girona.

Go to the Convent of Sant Domenec

One of the first Gothic buildings of Catalonia was the Convent of Sant Domenec, built between the 13th and the 14th century. Nowadays, parts of the Convent are used by the University.

what to do in Girona

Walking around the Jewish Quarter is one of the things to do in Girona

Explore the Jewish Quarter

Girona used to have one of the largest Jewish communities in the Iberian Peninsula. Here, much like in Besalú, they contributed to the development and wealth of the region. Visiting the Jewish Quarter is one of the things to do in Girona. Located inside the Força Vella and dating back to between the 12th and 15th century, this is a maze of narrow, cobbled alleys where you will enjoy getting lost and taking endless amounts of photos.

You can even go on a guided tour of Girona and Besalu that takes you through their Jewish history – you can book it here.

To learn more about Besalú, read my post “11 Fantastic Attractions In Besalu, Spain.”

Visit the Museums

One of the nicest things to do in Girona if you get stuck in the rain – like it happened to me – is spending some time in one (or all) of the excellent museums. Here are my favorite ones:

The Jewish History Museum: if you are a fan of history, then visiting the Jewish History Museum is what to do in Girona. This nicely details the history of the Jewish community of Catalonia and Aragon between the 9th and 15th century.

TIP: Don’t skip the lovely courtyard at the back of the museum!

The Archeology Museum of Catalonia: housed in part of the Monestir de Sant Pere de Galligants and the church of San Nicolau, you can visit after you are done with the monastery. It has a good exhibit witnessing human activity in the region until Roman time.

The Art Museum: housed in the old Episcopal Palace, it’s a good art museum with pieces that date back from the Romanesque period until the 20th century.

The Museum of Cinema: Girona became a more popular tourist destination when it started being the set of films and tv series. Visiting this museum is what to do in Girona if you want to learn about the history of film and the techniques used in cinema.

Discover the Game of Thrones Locations

For all the fans of Game of Thrones, one of the unmissable things to do in Girona is visiting the filming locations of the sixth series that are scattered around Girona. After seeing some GoT filming locations in the Basque Country, I was pleased to see more in Catalonia.

There even are Game of Thrones walking tours of Girona:

things to do in Girona

Make sure to walk around – Girona is very pedestrian friendly!

Walk around the Old Quarter

One of the top things to do in Girona is going for a walk in the Old Quarter in search of the many hidden gems. You’ll get to enjoy the cobbled alleys, the archways and the many pretty corners of this beautiful city.

Check out the Arab baths

The Arab baths of Girona were built in the 12th century. Their design was inspired by both Roman and Arab influences. They were in use until the 14th century, and can now be visited for a mere €2 – one of the nicest (and most budget friendly) things to do in Girona.

TIP: Apparently the Arab baths also were a Game of Thrones filming location!

Kiss the Lion’s bottom

Lots of peple – visitors and locals alike – stop at the statue of a lion and kiss its bottom. Apparently doing it means that you’ll go back to Girona. I suppose it works, since I have already been twice! Anyways, this is one of the ultimate things to do in Girona, apparently – so much so that they even have steps to reach it more easily.

Chill at Plaça Independencia

This is the biggest square in Girona, and from there you can easily cross the river and walk towards the Old Quarter. It’s a large, airy square with lots of nice cafés where you can have lunch for a real steal. Locals love to go there in the late afternoon, to chill and have a drink. Hanging out here is what to do in Girona to catch a bit of local action.

TIP: Together with the rambla, right on the other side of the river, Plaça Independencia is one of the best areas in town for a night walk.

You can even take a night tour of Girona. Book it here.

Visit Casa Masó

Of the lovely, colorful buildings that cling on the banks of the Onyar river, Casa Masó is one of the very few you can actually visit. It used to be the house of Rafael Masó, one of the most famous Catalan architects of the 20th century. Everything in the house is still set up as it used to be when Masó lived there.

Go to the Hospital de Santa Caterina

Now housing part of the offices of the Catalan government, this was a working hospital between the 17th and the 20th century, and one of the best preserved historical hospitals of Southern Europe. If you have some extra time in town, this is one of the places to visit in Girona.

TIP: You can book a guided tour of the Hospital de Santa Caterina through the Art Museum.

Chill (or run) at Parc de la Devesa

One of the things to do in Girona is you want to mingle with the locals is going for a run or a walk at Parc de la Devesa. It’s the largest urban park in Catalonia. You’ll definitely pass by it on your way to Plaça Independencia.

things to do in Girona Spain

Breakfast or brunch at La Fabrica – one of the things to do in Girona

Have breakfast or brunch at La Fabrica

One of the things to do in Girona is eating at La Fabrica, located in one of the many tiny squares in town, near yet another flight of stairs. This lovely café is known in town as the best hang out for cycling fans. It was established by a Canadian couple – Christian Meier, who used to be a professional cyclist, and his wife Amber. It’s the kind of place where you are likely to find other cyclists, see bikes outside (and even inside, to be fair) and you may have a chance to discuss the Giro.

For the non-cyclists, the good news is that La Fabrica is a fabulous place to have breakfast, brunch or a light lunch. For a healthy yet tasty breakfast opt for the breakfast bowl with lots of oats, coconut flakes, honey and fresh fruit.

Then get a gelato at Rocambolesc

Eating gelato is one of the best things to do in Girona in the summer. Come to think of it, why keep it seasonal? This is really what to do in Girona any time you feel like a treat. Rocambolesc is the place to go – if you trust the Italian here, you’ll end up eating one of the best gelati out there.

Rocambolesc was founded by Jordi Roca, who in 2014 was recognized as the World’s Best Pastry Chef. The choice of flavors is great – though they change daily, apparently. They even have lactose free and vegan ice cream!

Dine in one of the fabulous restaurants

One of the best things to do in Girona is eating. Girona is one of the food capitals of the world, home to El Celler de Can Roca, one of the best restaurants in the world. Should you not be able to get a table at this restaurant – founded by the Roca brothers, including the same Jordi Roca of Rocambolesc, Joan Roca who is the head chef, and Josep Roca who is the sommelier, and for which you will need to make reservations in advance – worry not: Girona is packed with excellent bistrot were you can dine like a king.

If you happen to visit Girona in the spring or summer, you’ll be happy to dine al fresco: this is what to do in Girona to enjoy a delicious meal and continue taking in the lovely views. And if you are vegan or vegetarian, you’ll be pleased to know that there are plenty of options for you – my favorite is vegan restaurant is Bionéctar.

TIP: For lunch, do like the locals and opt to get a fixed menu. With something between €12 and €15 you’ll get an appetizer, a main course, a dessert and a drink.

You can even take a Girona walking tour and tapas dinner. Book it here.

Go shopping

Girona is packed with lovely small shops and boutiques were you will love rummaging to find the item you didn’t even know you needed. Whether you are looking for souvenirs to bring to your family and friends, or just want something nice for yourself, rest assured that you’ll have plenty of opportunities here: shopping is one of the things to do in Girona.

things to do in Girona

Girona has some of the best restaurants in the world!

Practical Information To Organize Your Trip To Girona

How To Get To Girona

Girona is incredibly easy and cheap to reach from pretty much anywhere in Europe, as it is a hub for budget airlines. From there, you have various options to get to the city.

By car

From the airport, you can easily get to Girona by car. It’s just a 20 minutes drive. You can get a quote for car rental here.

By public bus

Sagalés operates buses from Girona airport to Girona city center. You can take bus n. 605 or 607. The ticket costs €2.75 and the journey lasts about 20 minutes. The bus timings follows the arrival and departure schedule of Ryanair flights.

By taxi or private transfer

A taxi from Girona airport to the center costs around €30. You can also book a private transfer for more or less the same price here or here.

From Barcelona

It takes about one hour to drive from Barcelona to Girona. Alternatively, you can opt for the train. The fast train takes a mere 35 minutes, but there also is a slower one that makes various stops and takes 90 minutes.

On a guided tour

Should you – despite all I have said – still decide to visit Girona for a day trip, you can opt to take a guided tour departing from Barcelona.

Here’s a selection of the best guided tours of Girona departing from Barcelona:

Where To Stay In Girona

For a small city, Girona has some good accommodation options. Hotels in Girona tend to be pricey in the peak season, and hostels only have dorms. Apartments may be a good compromise. With a bit of research you should be able to find the perfect place for you.

Below is a selection of places to stay in Girona, arranged by hotels, hostels and self catering apartments.

Best hotels in Girona

Best hostels in Girona

Best self catering apartments in Girona:

Things to do in Girona

A walk along the river is one of the things to do in Girona

Other Things To Know Before You Visit Girona

When to visit Girona

Any time is a good time to visit Girona, if you ask me. I went in July for the first time, and it was hot, though it rained quite a bit one day. I went again in October, and the temperatures were pleasant, but again it rained one day.

Spring and summer are generally good seasons to visit Girona, but keep in mind that the Temps de Flors festival in May, and the Sant Joan festival in June mean the city is incredibly busy and imply you’ll have to book well in advance.

How to move around Girona

Good news! One of the best things to do in Girona to fully discover it is walking around, and the city is truly pedestrian friendly. Besides, Girona is actually quite small so you can easily walk to all the main attractions and points of interest.

Business times

Don’t expect to shop or eat whenever you want in Girona. This is a city that still observes the working times of southern Europe for the most part, so shops and businesses close between 2:00 and 4:00 or 5:00 pm.

Dinner time won’t be before 8:00 pm. If you are hungry before then, do what the locals do: have a merienda, or a snack. Even better, have a gelato at Rocambolesc!

Language

The official languages in Girona are Catalan and Spanish, and what you’ll hear the locals speak is Catalan. Everyone does speak Spanish, and most people in the business and tourism industry speaks English, so you’ll be able to get by without any issue. Menus at restaurants are usually in Catalan, but most of them have an English copy as well.

Legal Disclaimer:  I was a guest of the Patronat de Turisme Costa Brava Girona during my second trip to Girona, and wish to thank them for helping me out with the organization. Needless to say, the views expressed in this post remain my own. 

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Discover what to do in Girona, Spain - via @clautavani

 

4 Comments

  1. Jenae on 19 August 2019 at 0:54

    Wish we could go for more than a day but we already paid upfront for our hotel in Barcelona and discovered this after. So we only have a day. Interested in walking the bridges and seeing the colorful houses, walking the wall, GOT locations like the Girona Cathedral and the baths. Should we walk to the sites from the train station starting at the bridges and then going in the order of how you listed everything or what order should we walk the sites in?
    Also, what time should we arrive that day to fit it all in?
    Lastly, can you buy a round trip train ticket at the train station or online ? Thank you!!!

    Reply
    • Claudia Tavani
      Claudia Tavani on 19 August 2019 at 9:10

      Hi Jenae, I haven’t listed the places in an itinerary form, so if you want to visit independently you’d have to create your own itinerary. You can buy train tickets online or at the train station. But – have you thought of maximizing your time and doing a guided tour? I mention several in my post, I am sure you can find one that is suitable to your interests.

      Reply
  2. Maurizio Morolli on 12 September 2019 at 14:12

    Well Claudia,
    Many thanks for your suggestions, including brunch at La Fabrica and a great gelato from Rocambolesc (and we are from Rimini….).
    We intended to go straight from Cadaqués to Barcelona but then, luckily, we stepped on to your guide.
    Girona the surprise of our trip!
    Grazie ancora.

    Reply

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