Step into Girona old town and you’re instantly transported through time. This enchanting city, nestled in the heart of Catalonia, will amaze you with its blend of medieval vibe and modern Catalan spirit. With its colorful houses reflected in the Onyar River and ancient narrow streets, Girona offers a quieter, more intimate experience than bustling Barcelona, yet shines with its own unique energy.
As you wander through the labyrinthine alleys of Girona old town, you’ll find yourself immersed in a living museum of architectural wonders. The stunning Gothic cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, while the well-preserved Jewish Quarter whispers tales of a once-thriving community. Ancient Girona city walls offer panoramic views, and world-class restaurants serve innovative cuisine that pays homage to Catalan traditions.
Girona offers a wealth of experiences – Its manageable size and walkable streets make it perfect for those who prefer a more laid-back, intimate travel experience, while its proximity to Barcelona and the Costa Brava makes it an ideal base for exploring more of Catalonia. Here, every stone, every archway, and every plaza has a story to tell, inviting you to slow down and create your own unforgettable memories in this jewel of Catalonia.
Planning Your Trip
To fully appreciate Girona And its’ old town charms, I recommend staying for at least 2-3 days. This gives you enough time to explore the old town, indulge in the food scene, and maybe take a day trip to the nearby Costa Brava. If you’re a history enthusiast or a cycling fan (Girona is a popular base for pro cyclists), consider extending your stay to 4-5 days.
The best times to visit are late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October) when the weather is pleasant and tourist crowds are thinner. Avoid August if possible, as it can be quite hot and crowded.
Girona Old Town – What to See
Girona Cathedral
This imposing Gothic structure dominates the city skyline. Game of Thrones fans will recognize it as the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing. Don’t miss the Tapestry of Creation inside! Hours: 10 AM – 7:30 PM (Apr-Oct), 10 AM – 6:30 PM (Nov-Mar) Tickets: €7 for adults, includes audio guide.
Jewish Quarter (El Call)
One of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, with its maze-like streets and hidden courtyards. Visit the Museum of Jewish History to learn about the area’s rich past. Hours: Museum open 10 AM – 6 PM (Closed Mondays) Tickets: €4 for adults
City Walls and Gardens Walk
along the ancient walls for panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. The adjacent Passeig de la Muralla offers a lovely park-like setting. Hours: Open 24/7 Free entry
Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs)
Step back in time as you explore these beautifully preserved 12th-century baths. Despite their name, they were actually built after the Moorish period, inspired by Roman and Arab bathing customs. The central cold room with its octagonal pool and skylit dome is particularly stunning. Don’t miss the charming garden outside.
Arab Baths hours: 10 AM – 7 PM (Apr-Oct), 10 AM – 6 PM (Nov-Mar) Tickets: €2 for adults, free on Sundays
Eiffel Bridge
This iron bridge over the Onyar River was designed by Gustave Eiffel before he created his famous tower in Paris. It offers great views of the colorful houses along the riverbank and connects the Girona old town with the more modern side of the city.
Plaça de la Independència
This neoclassical square is the heart of modern Girona, lined with restaurants and cafes. It’s the perfect spot for people-watching and enjoying a coffee or vermouth.
Girona Flower Festival
Visit in mid-May to experience Girona’s famous Tiempo de Flores (Time of Flowers) festival. For about a week, the entire city transforms into a living art installation, with stunning floral displays adorning historic sites, courtyards, and unexpected corners. It’s a magical time to explore Girona’s old town, offering access to usually closed private gardens and monuments. Book early, as this popular event draws crowds from around the world.
What to Eat
Girona’s cuisine blends traditional Catalan flavors with innovative modern techniques. The city is home to El Celler de Can Roca, once voted the world’s best restaurant. While getting a table there might be challenging, you can still experience exceptional gastronomy throughout the city.
Best Cafes and Restaurants in Girona Old Town
Must-visit eateries:
- Rocambolesc (innovative ice cream shop by Jordi Roca)
- La Fabrica (popular cafe and brunch spot among cyclists)
- Konig (try their artisanal breads and pastries)
Fine dining:
- Massana (Michelin-starred, contemporary Catalan cuisine)
- Nu (creative tasting menus in a sleek setting)
Local specialties to try:
- Xuixo (crispy pastry filled with custard cream)
- Botifarra amb mongetes (Catalan sausage with white beans)
- Crema Catalana (similar to crème brûlée)
Drinks:
- Ratafía (a sweet Catalan liqueur made with green walnuts)
- Wines from the Empordà region
Tip: Consider joining a food tour to discover hidden gems and learn about Catalan culinary traditions.
Where to Sleep
Luxury: Hotel Camiral (golf resort just outside the city)
Mid-range: Hotel Nord 1901 (boutique hotel with a pool in Girona old town)
Budget: Can Cocollona (charming hostel in a restored townhouse)
Unique: Cases de l’Onyar (apartments in the iconic colorful houses along the river)
Shopping & Nightlife
For shopping, check out the boutiques along Carrer de la Força and Rambla de la Llibertat. The Mercat del Lleó is great for local produce and products.
Girona’s nightlife is more laid-back than Barcelona’s but still offers plenty of options. Start your evening with vermouth at La Taverna de l’U. Then head to Plaça de la Independència or the area around Pou Rodó for a variety of bars and cafes.
Day Trips
Figueres (35 minutes by train):
Visit the Salvador Dalí Theatre-Museum, a surrealist wonderland.
Cadaqués (1.5 hours by car):
Picturesque coastal town that inspired artists like Dalí and Picasso.
Costa Brava beaches (30-60 minutes by car):
Explore stunning coves and charming seaside towns like Tossa de Mar or Calella de Palafrugell.
Getting There & Around
Girona has its own airport with connections to many European cities. It’s also easily accessible by high-speed train from Barcelona (38 minutes) or Paris (6.5 hours).
Girona old town is very walkable, but comfortable shoes are a must for the hilly streets. For longer distances, Girona offers a good bus network.
Tip: Rent a bike to explore the city like a local. Girona is famous for its cycling culture, and there are plenty of rental shops available.
Girona may not have the fame of Barcelona, but it offers a uniquely charming experience that blends history, culture, and gastronomy in a compact, walkable city. From its stunning cathedral to its vibrant food scene, from its ancient walls to its colorful riverside houses, Girona is a city that invites you to slow down, explore, and savor every moment.
FAQ: Your Guide to Exploring Girona
Is Girona old town worth visiting?
Without a doubt! Girona old town offers a unique blend of medieval architecture, rich history, and modern Catalan culture. Its well-preserved streets, stunning cathedral, and excellent cuisine make it a must-visit destination in Catalonia.
How long should I spend in Girona and the old town?
I recommend at least 2-3 days to fully explore Girona and its’ old town. This allows time to see the main attractions, enjoy the local cuisine, and soak in the atmosphere. If you’re a history enthusiast or want to take day trips, consider staying 4-5 days.
What are the must-see attractions in Girona old town?
Don’t miss the Girona Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter (El Call), the city walls, Arab Baths, and the colorful houses along the Onyar River. The Eiffel Bridge and Plaça de la Independència are also worth visiting.
What are the Game of Thrones filming locations in Girona old town?
Several locations in Girona old town featured in Season 6 of Game of Thrones as parts of King’s Landing and Braavos. These include:
- Girona Cathedral steps: Used for the Walk of Shame scene
- Sant Pere de Galligants monastery: Appeared as parts of Oldtown
- Arab Baths: Featured in Arya’s scenes in Braavos
- Carrer del Bisbe Josep Cartañà: Where the famous market scene was filmed
- Plaça dels Jurats: Used for theatre scenes in Braavos
- Parts of the Jewish Quarter: Appeared as streets of Braavos
These locations offer fans a chance to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters and see how the medieval architecture of Girona old town brought the world of Westeros to life.
Is Girona old town walkable?
Yes indeed, Girona old town is very walkable. Most attractions are only walking distance of each other. However, comfortable shoes are recommended as some streets can be steep and uneven.
When is the best time to visit Girona old town?
Late spring (May-June) and early fall (September-October) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The Temps de Flors flower festival in May is a particularly beautiful time to visit.
Can I visit Girona old town as a day trip from Barcelona?
While it’s possible to visit Girona as a day trip from Barcelona, we recommend staying overnight to fully experience the charm of the old town, especially in the evening when the day-trippers have left.
Is Girona expensive?
Compared to Barcelona, Girona can be more affordable. However, prices can vary widely depending on your choices. There are options for every budget, from hostels to luxury hotels, and from casual eateries to Michelin-starred restaurants. Girona’s old town, being the tourist attraction it is, naturally leads to higher prices.
