Why Girona is perfect for a day trip
Located just north of Barcelona, Girona is one of Catalonia’s most charming destinations. With its medieval streets, ancient walls, Roman heritage, and cinematic fame, Girona packs an impressive amount into a compact city. Whether you’re drawn by history, culture, food, or nearby nature, a day trip to Girona offers a rewarding escape without the rush.
Discovering Girona’s historic Old Town (Barri Vell)
Girona’s Old Town, known as Barri Vell, is one of the best-preserved medieval centers in Europe. Cobblestone streets, stone stairways, and ancient walls define this atmospheric area.
Highlights include:
- Colorful houses along the Onyar River
- Hidden squares and scenic viewpoints
- Easy access to major landmarks on foot
- Barri Vell is compact, making it ideal for a relaxed walking route during your day trip.
Girona Cathedral (Cathedral de Santa Maria)
The iconic Girona Cathedral (officially Santa Maria Girona) is the city’s most famous landmark. It features the widest Gothic nave in the world and a monumental staircase that dominates the Old Town skyline.
Arab Baths (Roman Baths Girona)
Despite their name, the Arab Baths are actually a Romanesque bathhouse inspired by Roman and Islamic designs. These baths date back to the 12th century and are remarkably well preserved.
Key features include:
- The octagonal pool (apodyterium)
- Elegant arches and columns
- A calm and uncrowded atmosphere
They’re located just steps from the cathedral, making them easy to include on your route.
Jewish Quarter (El Call)
Girona’s Jewish Quarter, or El Call in Catalan, is one of the most important in Europe. Narrow alleyways and stone passages reveal the city’s medieval Jewish heritage.
This area is perfect for:
- Quiet exploration away from crowds
- Learning about Girona’s cultural history
- Atmospheric photography
Basílica de Sant Feliu
Often overlooked, the Basílica de Sant Feliu is one of Girona’s oldest churches. Its mix of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque elements reflects the city’s layered past.
If you want to visit Basilica de Sant Feliu, Catedral de Santa Maria and the Cinema Museum of Girona, you should buy this Girona Pass that includes this three at the best price!
Art and culture in Girona
Museu d’Art de Girona (Art Museum Girona)
Located in the former Episcopal Palace, the Museu d’Art de Girona offers the most complete overview of Catalan art in the region, spanning from Romanesque to modern periods.
Museu del Cinema (Cinema Museum Girona)
The Cinema Museum Girona is a unique attraction dedicated to the history of visual storytelling and film. Interactive exhibits make it enjoyable for all ages.
What makes it special
- Pre-cinema optical inventions
- Vintage cameras and projectors
- Hands-on displays
Game of Thrones: Girona on screen
Filming locations
Girona became world-famous as a filming location because the 6th season of Game of Thrones, was filmed in the surrounding streets of the city. The cathedral and nearby streets appeared as Braavos and King’s Landing.
Places to visit near Girona
Banyoles and Banyoles Lake
Just 30 minutes from Girona lies Banyoles, home to the famous Banyoles Lake, the largest natural lake in Catalonia.
However, Banyoles Lake is not known only for its size, but for its mysterious and eerie history. According to local legend, a strange creature once lived in the dark depths of the lake, terrifying nearby villagers until a holy monk, Sant Emeteri, blessed the waters and restored peace to the area.
Some versions claim the monster was not destroyed but remains hidden in the depths, adding mystery to this unique natural site.
If you want to experience a sail on the largest natural lake in Catalonia and see historic fishing huts, I recommend you to book in advance the boat tour clicking here!
Dalí Museum (Figueres)
Figueres, birthplace of Salvador Dalí, is another popular stop near Girona. The Dalí Theatre-Museum is one of Spain’s most visited attractions.
Costa Brava
Girona is a gateway to the Costa Brava, known for its turquoise coves, dramatic cliffs, and charming fishing villages. While not always included in a single day, it’s ideal for extending your trip.
Depending on your interests, you can choose to visit lively coastal towns like l’Escala, Llançà or Roses along the Costa Brava or explore smaller and traditional villages rich in local history and charm like La Garrotxa, Besalú or Ullastret.
Day trip from Barcelona
How to get to Girona (Train or bus)
- Train: High-speed trains from Barcelona take around 40 minutes
- Bus: Budget-friendly but slower (1h 30m approx.)
FAQs about Girona
Yes, Girona is ideal for a day trip, especially from Barcelona. Its historic center is compact, walkable, and packed with landmarks such as Girona Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, and the Arab Baths.
Girona is about 100 km (62 miles) from Barcelona. High-speed trains connect both cities in around 40 minutes, making it one of the easiest day trips in Catalonia.
Some of the top attractions in Girona, Spain include:
- Girona Cathedral (Santa Maria Girona)The Jewish Quarter (El Call)
- Arab Baths (Roman baths Girona)
- Cinema Museum Girona
- Basilica of Sant Feliu
Absolutely. Banyoles Lake is located about 30 minutes from Girona and is one of the most popular places to visit near Girona. It’s perfect for walking, relaxing, or enjoying a scenic boat ride.
The best time to visit Girona is spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October), when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded than in peak summer.
Yes. Girona is a gateway to the Costa Brava, making it easy to combine a cultural city visit with coastal towns or beach destinations, depending on your travel preferences.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially for popular attractions like Girona Cathedral, museums, and guided tours. Online tickets help you skip lines and plan your day efficiently.
