Hello, traveler! You’re going to visit Girona? You’re in for a treat! This beautiful city in Catalonia is like the attractive but brainy friend who is still down to earth. Girona is rich with medieval charm and history and…yes… Game of Thrones fame (I will explain this interesting tidbit in a bit).
Located about an hour north of Barcelona, Girona feels like stepping into a fairy tale, but without all the tourist chaos you get in bigger cities. The old town is this amazing maze of narrow medieval streets, ancient walls, and colorful houses that’ll have you reaching for your camera every five minutes. Plus, it’s got this really authentic Catalan vibe that makes you feel like you’re experiencing the real Spain, not just the touristy version.
Ready to explore one of Catalonia’s best-kept secrets? Let’s dive into the absolute must-see attractions that make Girona so special!
Girona Cathedral (Catedral de Girona) – The Star of the Show
Let’s start with the obvious showstopper – Girona Cathedral is absolutely incredible. This isn’t just any old church; we’re talking about a building with the widest Gothic nave in the world. Yeah, you read that right – wider than Notre Dame! The Baroque façade is stunning, but wait until you get inside and see those soaring arches.
And here’s where it gets fun for all you Game of Thrones fans – those famous cathedral steps where Cersei did her walk of shame? Yep, that’s right here in Girona! Even if you’ve never watched the show, climbing those steps is pretty epic, and the views from the top are incredible.
Pro tip: Go early in the morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. The golden hour here is absolutely magical.
The Jewish Quarter (El Call) – Step Back in Time
This is hands down one of the coolest parts of Girona. El Call is one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in all of Europe, and wandering through these narrow cobblestone streets feels like time travel. We’re talking about incredibly narrow alleyways (some so skinny you can touch both walls at once!), hidden courtyards, and buildings that have been standing since medieval times.
The Museum of Jewish History here is really well done and gives you great context about the community that lived here for centuries. Even if museums aren’t usually your thing, this one’s pretty fascinating and helps you understand the significance of what you’re walking through.
Fair warning: these streets can be a bit of a workout! Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some serious uphill walking. But trust me, it’s totally worth it.
City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla) – Views for Days
If you do just one thing in Girona, make it walking along these medieval walls. The Passeig de la Muralla gives you the most incredible panoramic views of the entire city and the countryside beyond. It’s like getting a bird’s-eye view of all of Girona’s beauty spread out below you.
The walk takes about 30-45 minutes if you go slowly and stop for photos (which you definitely will), and there are several access points around the old town. The section near the cathedral is probably the most scenic, but honestly, the whole thing is pretty spectacular.
Best photo tip: Go for sunrise or sunset if you can. The light hitting those colorful houses and red-tiled roofs is pure Instagram gold.
Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles) – Yes, THAT Eiffel!
Here’s a fun fact that’ll impress your friends: this iconic red iron bridge was actually designed by Gustave Eiffel – yep, the same guy who built the Eiffel Tower! He designed this beauty in 1877, before his famous Parisian tower made him a household name.
The bridge itself is pretty cool, but the real magic is the view you get from it. Looking out over the Onyar River and those famous, colorful houses is seriously one of the most picturesque sights in all of Spain. It’s definitely one of those “pinch me, is this real life?” moments.
Onyar River Houses – Postcard Perfect
Speaking of those colorful houses – they’re absolutely gorgeous and probably the most photographed sight in Girona. These brightly painted homes line the Onyar River and look like something straight out of a storybook. The colors are just incredible: bright yellows, oranges, pinks, and blues reflecting in the water below.
The best viewpoints are from any of the bridges crossing the river, but the Eiffel Bridge probably gives you the classic shot that everyone recognizes. Pro tip: they look amazing at different times of day, so if you have time, check them out in both morning and evening light.
Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs) – Ancient Spa Day
Don’t let the name fool you – these aren’t actually Arab baths, but 12th-century Romanesque public baths inspired by Roman and Moorish designs. Still, they’re pretty fascinating! The domed central hall is really impressive, and it’s cool to think about how people were using these same spaces for bathing and socializing almost 900 years ago.
It’s a small site, so you won’t need tons of time here, but it’s definitely worth the visit, especially if you’re into history or architecture. Plus, it’s nice and cool inside, which is perfect if you’re visiting during the hot summer months.
Sant Pere de Galligants Monastery – Hidden Gem Alert
This Romanesque monastery is now home to the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia, and it’s honestly one of Girona’s most underrated attractions. The building itself is beautiful – classic medieval Catalan architecture with this peaceful, contemplative vibe.
The museum has some really interesting artifacts that tell the story of the region from prehistoric times through the medieval period. Even if you’re not usually a museum person, the building alone is worth seeing, and it’s usually much less crowded than the main cathedral.
Independence Square (Plaça de la Independència) – Where Life Happens
This is Girona’s main gathering spot, and it’s got this great energy that makes you want to grab a seat at one of the outdoor cafés and just watch the world go by. The neoclassical buildings around the square are beautiful, and there’s always something happening – street musicians, local events, or just people meeting up with friends.
It’s also where you’ll find some of the best restaurants and bars in the old town. Perfect spot for lunch, dinner, or just a coffee break while you’re exploring.
Girona Art Museum (Museu d’Art de Girona) – For the Culture Lovers
Located in the Episcopal Palace (which is gorgeous in its own right), this museum has an impressive collection of medieval, Renaissance, and Baroque art. If you’re into art history, you’ll love the medieval pieces – some of the altarpieces and religious art are really spectacular.
Even if you’re not a huge art fan, the building is worth seeing, and they often have interesting temporary exhibitions that showcase local artists or specific themes.
Game of Thrones Filming Locations – For the Fans
Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room – Game of Thrones has put Girona on the map for a whole new generation of travelers! The old town doubled for several locations in the show, including Braavos and King’s Landing.
You can definitely explore these spots on your own (the cathedral steps, various streets in the Jewish Quarter), but there are also guided Game of Thrones tours that’ll show you exactly where different scenes were filmed. Even if you’re not a huge fan of the show, it’s pretty cool to see how they transformed this medieval city into a fantasy world.
Devesa Park (Parc de la Devesa) – Green Space Paradise
When you need a break from all the medieval sightseeing, head to Devesa Park – it’s actually the largest urban park in all of Catalonia! Those tree-lined avenues are perfect for a leisurely stroll, and it’s a great spot for a picnic if you want to eat lunch somewhere peaceful.
The plane trees here are massive and create this beautiful canopy that’s especially gorgeous in fall when the leaves change colors. It’s also where locals come to jog, walk their dogs, or just hang out, so it’s a nice way to see a different side of Girona life.
FAQ
How long do I need to explore Girona? A full day is perfect for hitting all the main highlights, but if you want to really soak up the atmosphere and maybe do some shopping or longer museum visits, two days would be ideal.
Is Girona worth visiting if I’m not a Game of Thrones fan? Absolutely! While the show has brought more attention to the city, Girona was amazing long before HBO discovered it. The medieval architecture, history, and charm are incredible regardless of any TV connections.
What’s the best way to get to Girona from Barcelona? The train is super easy and takes about 1 hour and 20 minutes. High-speed trains are a bit faster but more expensive. There are also buses, but the train is more comfortable and convenient.
Is Girona good for a day trip or should I stay overnight? It works great as a day trip from Barcelona, but staying overnight lets you experience the city when it’s quieter and more atmospheric. Plus, the evening light on those colorful houses is magical.
What’s the best time of year to visit Girona? Spring and fall are ideal – great weather and fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and busy, but the longer days are nice. Winter is mild but some attractions might have shorter hours.
Are the streets in the old town accessible to people with mobility issues? The medieval old town has lots of stairs and uneven cobblestones, so it can be challenging. The newer parts of the city and some attractions, like the cathedral, are more accessible.
Why Girona Should Be on Your Spain Itinerary
Listen, I could keep going for hours about why Girona is so special, but honestly, the best way to understand its magic is to experience it yourself. This city has this incredible ability to make you feel like you’ve discovered something really special – like you’re in on a secret that not everyone knows about yet.
Whether you’re drawn by the Game of Thrones connections, fascinated by medieval history, love gorgeous architecture, or just want to experience authentic Catalan culture, Girona delivers in ways that’ll exceed your expectations. It’s got that perfect mix of must-see sights and wanderable neighborhoods where you can just get lost and discover amazing little details around every corner.
The best part? It’s still manageable and has an authentic feeling, unlike some Spanish cities that can feel overwhelming with crowds and commercialization. Girona lets you really connect with the history and culture in a way that feels genuine and personal.
