Top 10: Things to Do in Girona

Get ready for an adventure through Girona, the capital of the province of the same name. Just 100 km (62 miles) north of Barcelona, medieval walls, narrow, winding streets, and a thrilling history await! Nestled between the majestic Pyrenees and the vibrant city of Barcelona, this region is an absolute must-visit that deserves a spot on everyone’s travel bucket list! Today with Civitatis, we’re talking about our top 10 things to do in Girona, so that you can make the most out of your trip!

1. Explore Girona Old Town

To uncover Girona’s fascinating history, make your way to Girona Old Town, known locally as Barri Vell. This charming area in the city is characterised by incredibly preserved Roman, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque buildings and monuments, surrounded by beautiful medieval walls.

Brace yourselves for the grandeur of the breathtaking Girona Cathedral (Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona), the symbol of this city. Other highlights of the old town include the Basilica of San Feliú, the mystical Arab Baths, and the enchanting San Pedro de Galligants monastery. Get the most out of your experience by enjoying this Girona Guided Walking Tour, which will bring you around the main spots of the Catalonian City, accompanied by an expert guide.

2. Discover the Jewish Quarter

Also inside the old city walls (Força Vella) is the fascinating, historic Jewish Quarter. This area is known locally as ‘El Call’, and is one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, dating back to the 12th century.

Other than simply exploring the labyrinth of narrow streets, and enjoying the architecture of the area, the main highlight of the Jewish Quarter is probably the Bonastruc ça Porta Centre, where you’ll find the last-built medieval synagogue, which was in use until 1492 when Jewish people were expelled from Spain. Learn all about the history, and visit the Museum of Jewish History on our Jewish Quarter Tour, which includes admission to the museum!

Pro tip: Get a great view of the Jewish Quarter, and make your way to the park of La Devesa.

3. See the City from its Medieval Walls

For the very best views of the city, head to the Passeig de la Muralla. This walk along the medieval walls provides the most spectacular views of the city and its terracotta rooftops, as well as the Pyrenees Mountains and the countryside in the distance. The walls span the eastern side of the old town, with watch towers at regular intervals, from which you can enjoy a view from even higher!

To walk along the entire route takes 1-2 hours, though there are several entry/exit points along the way, so you don’t have to do the whole thing!

4. Check out the Costa Brava’s Medieval Towns

If you’re staying in Girona for a few days, we recommend making your way out of the city to discover what the Costa Brava has to offer. On this Costa Brava & Medieval Towns Tour, you’ll explore this magnificent stretch of Catalan coastline.

Along the way, you’ll see beautiful beach coves, rugged cliffs, and fascinating medieval towns, including Pals and Peratallada, each one boasting a fascinating history. For a deeper insight into Cataluña’s culture and a view of its most spectacular landscapes, exploring the Costa Brava is a must!

5. Make Your Way to the Girona Art Museum

One of our favourite things to check out in Girona is the beautiful Girona Art Museum. If you’re interested in the world of art, this exhibition of Catalan Art is sure to impress. Located in the old Episcopal Palace, this museum is home to a wide selection of art and sculptures spanning centuries.

Buy a ticket to the Girona Art Museum to see everything from Romanesque woodcarvings, murals, modern paintings and sculptures.

6. Indulge in Girona’s Gastronomy

If you’re a foodie visiting Girona, you’re in luck! Girona is home to wonderful cured meats, cheeses, desserts, wine and beer! Try them for yourself as part of this Girona Tour + Food Tasting, during which you’ll explore the city accompanied by an expert guide before tasting a lovely selection of locally produced products.

If you’re more interested in the wine, be sure to indulge in some local products! Throughout the region, you’ll find beautiful vineyards, particularly in Empordà—a world-renowned producer of red wines and rosés.

7. Immerse Yourself in the World of Game of Thrones

Did you know that parts of Game of Thrones were filmed in Girona? Walk through the streets depicted as ‘Braavos’ on this Game of Thrones Tour in Girona and relive some of the most iconic moments in the show. Explore King’s Landing at Girona Cathedral, and see the exact spot where Samwell Tarly, one of Jon Snow’s most trusted friends, is granted access to the Citadel Grand Library. If you’re a GOT fan, this is one of the most exciting ways to discover the city.

8. Visit the Girona Cinema Museum

A slightly left-of-field entry perhaps, but the Girona Cinema Museum is definitely one of our favourite things to do in the city. Recipient of various international accolades over the years, including the ‘European Museum of the Year Award’, the Girona Cinema Museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of cinema, from its humble beginnings in the 19th century to the emergence of television.

Its interactive exhibits are in English, and many have interactive elements aimed at all audiences, from kids to movie buffs! Check it out for yourself by buying a ticket to the Girona Cinema Museum, or, even better, if you’re visiting at the right time, entry is free on the first Sunday of each month!

9. Grab a Coffee at the Plaça de la Independència

The Plaça de la Independència is perhaps the loveliest and most popular square in the city. After seeing the Onyar River from the Palanques Vermelles Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel (best-known for engineering the Eiffel Tower), make your way to this charming square and grab a coffee or some food at one of the many establishments which line the square.

10. Enjoy a Dalí Tour of Figueres and Cadaques

For fans of artist Salvador Dalí, this Dalí Tour of Figueres and Cadaques will bring you on a day trip out of the city of Girona to the artist’s birthplace of Figueres, as well as where he’d spend his summer holidays in Cadaques.

Along the way, you’ll see the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which he himself commissioned to house many of his finest works. Throughout the rest of the tour, you’ll see locations which shaped the artist’s life and inspired some of his finest works.

There we have it! If you do take the plunge and make your way to the stunning city of Girona, we hope that this blog post will give you some inspiration for your itinerary. If you’re looking for more things to do, in Girona, on the Costa Brava or elsewhere, be sure to check out more tours & experiences with Civitatis.