Exploring Girona: One of the best day trips from Barcelona

Of city walls and medieval architecture

Mar 22, 2024 · 3 min read

summary

Key Highlights of Girona
How much time should I spend at Girona?
How do I get to Girona? Do I need to join a tour?

A tranquil town on the Costa Brava, just a short journey away from the bustling streets of Barcelona, Girona offers a perfect destination for a day trip. If you are a fan of Game of Thrones, Girona is probably not going to be unfamiliar to you — Girona was a filming location for the series. But even if you don't watch Game of Thrones, the picturesque landscapes and medieval architecture in this old town will not disappoint.

Key Highlights of Girona

Girona has a lot to offer, with 45 sights listed on its official tourist map. Of course, there are some sights which are more impressive than others, and if you are trying to find out what are some of the must-sees and most popular sights, we've got you covered.

1. City Walls

If you are visiting Girona, you definitely can't miss the city walls. It is not simply just a case of seeing these old city walls, but instead, there are paths on the walls that you can walk on. Walk along these ancient city walls, also known as Passeig de la Mural, and enjoy panoramic views over the city. There are also various watchtowers where you can climb up to for an even better view.

It is recommended to enter the walls from behind the Girona Cathedral.

2. Girona Cathedral

The cathedral with the long, wide staircase in front of the main portal is one of Girona's most iconic sights. It was also the filming location for the entrance of the Great Sept of Baelor in Game of Thrones.

The cathedral could get rather busy in the afternoon, so it is recommended to visit the cathedral earlier in the day.

3. Jewish Quarters

The Jewish quarter of Girona is one of the best preserved Jewish quarters in Europe. Spend some time wandering the winding, narrow cobblestone streets of the Jewish quarters in the Old Town of Girona.

You can also visit the Museum of Jewish History to learn more about the history of the Jewish communities in Catalonia in the Middle Ages, with a particular focus on Girona.

4. Arab Baths

Another spot popular with the fans of Game of Thrones, the Arab Baths are a unique Romanesque building modelled on ancient Roman baths. It was first built in the 12th century, and is now open to the public as a museum.

5. Plaça de la Independencia

The Plaça de la Independencia is a neoclassical square in the city center of Girona, featuring many restaurants and cafes. It is a popular spot for a mid-day break.

How much time should I spend at Girona?

It depends on how much you want to see! But as a guideline, plan to spend at least 4-6 hours in Girona to cover most of the key attractions!

How do I get to Girona? Do I need to join a tour?

Girona has an airport which you could fly into.

But, if you are visiting Girona as a day-trip from Barcelona, you don't have to fly! There are many trains that can take you to Girona directly from Barcelona. Depending on the train that you take, the journey could be as short as 40 minutes. For regular trains, the journey time is anywhere between 1 hour - 1.5 hours.

Once you get to Girona, it is very easy for you to get around on foot.

So, no, you don't actually need to join a tour. But, tours are often a good option if you want to combine your trip to Girona with a visit to a neighbouring city. Or, if you would like to visit the Game of Thrones filming locations, then joining a Game of Thrones walking tour might be a good idea!