Written by Celine Fournier, David Garcia, Javier Garcia
31/08/2025
Jose Rodriguez Ortega, Pexels
Girona, a historic city in Catalonia, Spain, offers a captivating blend of remarkably preserved medieval architecture, rich cultural experiences, and a vibrant culinary scene. Visitors are drawn to its ancient city walls, the labyrinthine Jewish Quarter, and the iconic colorful houses lining the Onyar River. It stands as a more tranquil alternative to bustling urban centers, attracting those interested in history, gastronomy, and is particularly renowned as a premier destination for cycling enthusiasts and fans exploring 'Game of Thrones' filming locations.
For social engagement, the Old Town (Barri Vell) is home to numerous cafes, restaurants, and cozy bars that create a lively atmosphere in the evenings. Plaça de la Independència serves as a central hub for nightlife, featuring a variety of bars, restaurants, and clubs. Additionally, the Mercadal area is noted for its vibrant local pubs and tapas bars, offering opportunities to socialize like a local.
Top 7 Things to do in Girona
Girona offers a blend of historical exploration, culinary delights, and active pursuits, primarily within its charming Old Town.
1. Walk the Ancient City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla)
Walking along Girona's well-preserved medieval city walls provides panoramic views of the Old Town, including the Cathedral and the Onyar River, and even the distant Pyrenees on a clear day. The entire walk is approximately 3 km and offers various lookout points and watchtowers for different perspectives. It is a wonderful way to grasp the city's layout and history.
Cost: The walk along the city walls is free of charge.
Transport: The city walls are easily accessible from various points in the Old Town, including Jardins de la Francesa near the Cathedral and Jardines de John Lennon.
2. Explore the Jewish Quarter (El Call)
Stepping into El Call, Girona's labyrinthine Jewish Quarter, feels like a journey back in time. It is one of Europe's best-preserved Jewish quarters, with narrow, cobbled lanes and ancient buildings revealing centuries of history. Visitors can wander through its hidden courtyards and discover the Museum of Jewish History, which offers insights into the community's past.
Cost: Exploring the Jewish Quarter itself is free. A guided tour typically costs around 35 Euros for adults and includes entrance to the Jewish History Museum. Entry to the Museum of Jewish History is around 4 Euros, or often included in some guided tours. Children under 11 may have free entry to the museum, but tickets are still required.
Transport: The Jewish Quarter is located in the heart of the Old Town and is best explored on foot. It is a short walk from the Cathedral and other central attractions.
3. Visit Girona Cathedral
Standing majestically atop a hill, Girona Cathedral is an imposing structure showcasing Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles, famously featuring the widest Gothic nave in the world. Its grand staircase is recognizable to fans of 'Game of Thrones'. Inside, visitors can explore the nave, treasury, and cloister, gaining an appreciation for its rich history and art.
Cost: A cultural visit ticket, including an audioguide, typically costs 5 Euros. This often includes access to the Basilica de Sant Feliu and sometimes the Art Museum. Free entry may be available during specific worship times or on the first Sunday of each month for the Treasury and Cloister.
Transport: The Cathedral is centrally located within the Old Town and is easily reached on foot. It requires climbing a long set of steps to reach the entrance.
4. Stroll along the Onyar River and Eiffel Bridge
The colorful houses lining the Onyar River are one of Girona's most iconic and picturesque sights. Walking across the bridges, particularly the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, also known as the Eiffel Bridge (designed by Gustave Eiffel before his famous Parisian tower), offers excellent photo opportunities and charming views of the riverfront. It is a pleasant way to connect the Old Town with the newer parts of the city.
Cost: Exploring the riverbanks and crossing the bridges is free.
Transport: The bridges and riverfront are central to Girona and easily accessible on foot from anywhere in the city center.
5. Discover the Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs)
These 12th-century Romanesque bathhouses, inspired by Moorish designs, are a beautifully preserved relic of medieval hygiene. Visitors can explore the frigidarium, tepidarium, and caldarium, appreciating the serene atmosphere and architectural details like the central domed pool and stone columns. It offers a glimpse into daily life from a bygone era.
Cost: Entry to the Arab Baths is typically around 3 Euros.
Transport: The Arab Baths are located within the Old Town, a short walk from the Cathedral and Jewish Quarter.
6. Indulge in a Food Tour
Girona boasts a vibrant culinary scene, from traditional Catalan eateries to world-renowned restaurants. Joining a food tour offers a fantastic way to sample local delicacies such as 'xuixo' (a cream-filled pastry), Iberian ham, local cheeses, and wines. These tours often visit local markets and emblematic places, providing insights into Girona's gastronomic heritage and the opportunity to eat where locals do.
Cost: Morning food tasting and market tours typically start from 69 Euros per adult. Evening tapas and wine tours usually start from 79 Euros per adult.
Transport: Food tours generally start from central locations, like Plaça de la Independència, and involve walking through the city center.
7. Cycle the Surrounding Countryside
Girona is a renowned cycling hub, attracting professional riders and enthusiasts alike due to its diverse landscapes. Visitors can explore routes ranging from challenging climbs in the Pyrenean foothills to scenic coastal roads along the Costa Brava. Renting a bicycle allows for independent exploration of the picturesque region, which features quiet country roads through pine forests and medieval villages.
Cost: Bicycle rentals vary, with budget options for cruise bikes around 185-232 Euros for a 5-day package including accommodation (based on multiple people). Upgrading to a mid-class road bike can add about 70 Euros. Guided cycling tours can range from 1,053 Euros for a 4-night tour to over 2,845 Euros for a 6-night tour, often including accommodation and support.
Transport: Many cycling tour operators and rental shops are located within or near Girona city center. Routes start directly from the city, extending into the surrounding areas.
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