Nestled in the heart of Catalonia, Girona is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty, waiting to be explored. Just 40 minutes from Barcelona by high-speed train, this enchanting city is a perfect destination for a day trip or a longer stay.
You can experience the best of Girona in just one day, wandering through its medieval walls, exploring the well-preserved Jewish Quarter, and marveling at its dramatic cathedral. With its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and warm hospitality, Girona is a place that will leave you enchanted and eager to return.
As a filming location for Game of Thrones, Girona has gained international recognition, but its authentic Catalan character has been drawing visitors for centuries. Get ready to uncover the top attractions and experiences that make Girona a must-visit destination in Spain.
Discovering Girona’s Medieval Charm
As you step into Girona, you’re immediately enveloped in its medieval charm and rich history. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, Girona is a city that seamlessly blends its past with the present.
A Brief Introduction to Girona
Girona is nestled in the heart of Catalonia, making it an ideal base for exploring northeastern Spain. The city’s rich cultural tapestry is evident in its architecture, traditions, and the warm hospitality of its inhabitants. With just over 100,000 inhabitants, Girona offers a great opportunity to immerse yourself in local traditions and experience the strong Catalan identity.
A great way to get to know Girona is by booking a free tour of Girona. This 2-hour tour will take you through the essential places, providing historical context and insights from a knowledgeable guide.
Best Time to Visit Girona
The best time to visit Girona is during spring (April-June) and fall (September-October), when the temperatures are pleasant, and the crowds are smaller. These periods offer the bonus of special events like the “Temps de Flors” flower festival in May. Summer brings warmer weather but also more tourists, while winter offers a quieter experience with the occasional snowfall dusting the medieval quarter.
To make the most of your trip, consider taking a guided walking tour early in your visit. This will help you get oriented to the winding streets and provide context for the city’s many historical landmarks.
Explore the Historic Jewish Quarter (El Call)
Step into El Call, Girona’s well-preserved Jewish Quarter, and experience the city’s cultural and historical depth. This enchanting neighborhood is a maze of narrow, winding streets that have remained largely unchanged for centuries.
Winding Through Medieval Streets
As you explore El Call, you’ll be transported back in time to the medieval period. The area is characterized by its narrow, cobblestoned lanes and ancient stone buildings, some of which date back to the 10th century. You’ll discover hidden courtyards, tiny squares, and stone archways that have been preserved in their original form.
The Jewish community in Girona thrived from 982 to 1492, leaving a lasting legacy in the city’s architecture and culture. As you wander through the atmospheric streets, you’ll gain insight into the lives of Girona’s Jewish residents and their contributions to the city’s rich history.
Museum of Jewish History
For a deeper understanding of Girona’s Jewish heritage, visit the Museum of Jewish History (Museu d’Història dels Jueus). The museum showcases a fascinating collection of artifacts, documents, and interactive exhibits that bring the stories of Girona’s Jewish community to life. Be sure to see the remains of the ancient synagogue within the museum, a powerful reminder of the cultural and intellectual achievements of Girona’s Jewish residents.
In conclusion, El Call is a unique and captivating part of Girona’s history, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply looking to explore Girona’s charming neighborhoods, the Jewish Quarter is a must-visit destination that promises to leave a lasting impression.
Marvel at Girona’s Architectural Wonders
The city of Girona boasts an impressive array of architectural treasures that are sure to leave you in awe. As you explore this historic city, you’ll discover a blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles that reflect its rich cultural heritage.
Girona Cathedral and Its 90 Steps
One of the highlights of your visit to Girona will be the Girona Cathedral, perched atop a hill and accessible by a monumental staircase of 90 steps. This iconic landmark was featured prominently in Game of Thrones, making it a must-visit spot for fans of the series. The cathedral’s construction began in the 11th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a fascinating mix of architectural styles.
Inside the cathedral, you’ll find the widest Gothic nave in the world, measuring 23 meters across, along with stunning stained glass windows and an intricately carved Romanesque cloister. The climb up the 90 steps, divided into three sections, is well worth the effort for the panoramic views of the city.
Arab Baths
Just a short walk from the cathedral, you’ll find the remarkably preserved 12th-century Arab Baths, a testament to Girona’s rich history. Despite their name, these baths were modeled after Roman bathing facilities, showcasing the city’s cultural influences. The most striking feature is the dome of the main hall, which adds to the baths’ mystique.
Game of Thrones fans will recognize the Arab Baths as the setting for scenes featuring Arya Stark, adding another layer of interest to these historical structures. As you explore the city, you’ll appreciate the blend of history, architecture, and pop culture that makes Girona so unique.
Walk the Ancient City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla)
As you explore Girona, a must-do activity is walking along the ancient city walls, known as Passeig de la Muralla. This historic pathway offers a unique perspective on Girona’s old town and is a highlight for visitors.
Panoramic Views of the City
The well-preserved walls provide a continuous elevated pathway around the old town, offering panoramic views of Girona’s terracotta rooftops, the cathedral, and the surrounding Catalan countryside. As you stroll along this historic fortification, you’ll encounter several watchtowers where you can climb up for even more impressive vistas and perfect photo opportunities.
Tips for Walking the Walls
For the best experience, consider the following tips: wear comfortable shoes, bring water (especially in summer), and start from the Gardens of the Germans (Jardins dels Alemanys) entrance, which offers a less crowded access point to the walls. The complete circuit takes about 1-2 hours at a leisurely pace, making it an ideal activity for late afternoon when the lighting is perfect for photography.
| Tips | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Wear comfortable shoes | Enjoy your walk without discomfort |
| Bring water | Stay hydrated, especially in summer |
| Start from Jardins dels Alemanys | Avoid crowds and enjoy a smoother start |
Girona, Spain: Best Things to Do – Top Picks for Game of Thrones Fans
Step into the world of Westeros in Girona, a city that brought Game of Thrones to life. As a major filming location for Season 6, Girona’s medieval architecture and historic quarters were transformed into the Free City of Braavos, making it a must-visit destination for fans of the series.
Famous Filming Locations
The city’s historic heart is filled with locations that were used in the show. The Girona Cathedral, with its grand staircase, became the Great Sept of Baelor in King’s Landing, a pivotal setting for the confrontation between Jaime Lannister and the High Sparrow. The narrow, twisting lanes of the Jewish Quarter (El Call) were transformed into the streets of Braavos, where Arya Stark’s storyline unfolded.
Other recognizable filming locations include the Abbey of Sant Pere de Galligants, which became the Braavos citadel library, and the Arab Baths. The various staircases and alleyways throughout the old town were used in Arya’s famous chase scene. What makes Girona’s Game of Thrones sites particularly special is the minimal use of CGI, making the city’s medieval architecture feel like a direct portal into the world of Westeros.
Game of Thrones Walking Tours
To fully experience Girona’s connection to Game of Thrones, consider joining a guided walking tour. These tours are led by knowledgeable guides who can point out even the most obscure filming locations and share behind-the-scenes stories about the production. You’ll be walking in the footsteps of your favorite characters, exploring the city’s historic city walls and significant landmarks that were brought to life on screen.
By taking a Game of Thrones tour in Girona, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how the city’s architecture was used to create the world of Westeros. It’s an immersive experience that combines history, culture, and fandom, making your visit to Girona truly unforgettable.
Experience Girona’s Riverside Beauty
As you wander through Girona, you’ll discover the city’s hidden gem: the picturesque Onyar River. This river runs through the heart of the town, offering a unique perspective on Girona’s architecture and history.
Colorful Houses Along the Onyar River
The Onyar River is lined with colorful houses that seem to rise directly from the water, creating a picturesque scene reminiscent of Florence or Venice. These vibrant façades, painted in warm yellows, oranges, and pinks, are best viewed from one of the several bridges that span the river, particularly at sunset when the colors reflect brilliantly in the water below. You’ll discover one of Girona’s most iconic and photographed scenes along the Onyar River.
Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles)
The most famous crossing over the Onyar River is the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, also known as the Eiffel Bridge. Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s company in 1876, this striking red iron structure was built just before the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris. The bridge’s distinctive red color creates a perfect contrast against the pastel buildings, making it one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in Girona. As you stroll along the riverbanks and cross between the old town and the more modern part of the city, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for how the Onyar River has shaped Girona’s development.
Conclusion: Why Girona Deserves More Than a Day Trip
Located just 38 minutes from Barcelona by high-speed train, Girona is an ideal getaway. While you might be tempted to visit Girona as a day trip, we encourage you to stay longer and experience all that this charming town has to offer.
Girona’s magical evening atmosphere is a treat, with monuments illuminated and locals filling the squares and tapas bars. The city offers accommodations for every budget and style, from boutique hotels like ByPillow the Bloom to modern options like Hotel Ciutat de Girona.
Beyond Girona’s highlights, the surrounding region is also worth exploring. The Costa Brava coastline and Empordà wine region are just 40 minutes away, offering world-class beaches and wineries. Take a coffee break in Plaça de la Independència and watch local life unfold. With its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, Girona is a destination that will leave you wanting more.
