Girona is a small city with a remarkable amount to discover. Medieval lanes wind between old stone buildings, bridges cross the river, and colourful houses line the Onyar like a row of painted postcards. Around every corner, you will find quiet squares, inviting cafés, and restaurants serving the flavours of Catalan cuisine. It is a wonderful place for a weekend escape, a cultural break, or a food-focused holiday. It also makes a convenient base for exploring the nearby Costa Brava. And because so much of Girona lies within easy walking distance, choosing the right neighbourhood can shape the whole experience of your stay.
This guide to the best hotels to stay in Girona explores the city’s main areas, explains which neighbourhoods suit different types of travellers, and shares practical tips on hotel prices, the best time to book, and how to find a stay that fits your plans.
Where Should You Stay in Girona?
Girona may be compact, but each part of the city has its own character. Some neighbourhoods draw you into the atmosphere of the medieval past, while others offer modern comforts, convenient transport, and easy access to everyday essentials. For most visitors, four areas are worth considering.
Girona Old Town: Best for First-Time Visitors
For a first visit, Girona’s Old Town is hard to resist. This is where history unfolds along narrow medieval streets, with the Cathedral rising above the rooftops and the Jewish Quarter revealing centuries of stories in its stone passageways. The Arab Baths and many of the city’s most famous sights are also close by.
Restaurants and cafés are scattered throughout the area, giving you plenty of places to pause between sightseeing stops. Much of the Old Town can be explored on foot, making it ideal for travellers who want to discover Girona at their own pace. Just remember that some streets are steep or paved with uneven stone. If you are travelling with heavy luggage, check the route to your hotel before booking.
Barri Vell: Best for History and Romance
Barri Vell is Girona’s historic heart, where old stone façades, hidden corners, and winding lanes create an atmosphere that feels wonderfully removed from the rush of modern life. It is an especially appealing choice for couples and anyone who loves staying somewhere with character.
Mornings here can begin with a quiet walk through the old streets, while evenings invite you to linger over dinner in a tucked-away restaurant or wander through softly lit squares. Many of Girona’s main attractions are nearby, so you can spend much of your stay exploring on foot. If you want the historic side of the city right outside your door, Barri Vell is a natural choice.
Girona City Centre: Best for Restaurants and Convenience
Girona’s modern city centre offers a different kind of charm. It is practical, lively, and well placed for everyday conveniences, with shops, cafés, and restaurants close at hand. After a day exploring the historic quarter, you can return to a comfortable modern setting and choose from plenty of places to eat.
This area is particularly useful for shorter stays and travellers who prefer straightforward access to services and transport. If you want a balance between sightseeing and convenience without staying deep inside the medieval streets, the city centre is well worth considering.
Near Girona Train Station: Best for Day Trips
If Girona is part of a wider Catalonia adventure, staying near the train station can make your journey easier. You can arrive, leave your bags at the hotel, and start exploring without having to cross the city first.
The station is especially convenient for trips to Barcelona and Figueres, while selected Costa Brava destinations can also be reached by bus or other connections. This area is a practical choice for travellers planning several day trips or arriving with luggage. Although it lacks some of the historic atmosphere of Barri Vell, it offers a useful base for exploring beyond Girona itself. Smaller, simple hotels such as Hotel Europa sit right beside the railway and bus station, while Carlemany Girona is also within a short walk of the station and not far from the edge of Barri Vell.
5 of the Best Hotels to Stay in Girona
From character-filled stays in the historic quarter to modern hotels in convenient locations, Girona offers options for different travel styles and budgets. The five hotels below provide a starting point for finding the right place to stay, whether you are visiting for a romantic weekend, a cultural escape, or a longer journey around Catalonia.
Hotel prices, facilities, and services can change depending on the season and room type, so check each hotel’s official website for the latest information before making a reservation.
1. Hotel Nord 1901:
Hotel Nord 1901 is on Carrer del Nord, in a central spot close to the historic centre. The rooms are stylish and comfortable, and there is an outdoor swimming pool, which is a real treat after a day on your feet. Restaurants and attractions are within easy reach. It has a rating of 4.6 from more than 800 reviews, and prices start at around 211 dollars. It is a good option for couples and for anyone who likes a hotel with a bit of design.
2. Hotel Museu Llegendes de Girona:
Set in Girona’s atmospheric Old Town on Carrer del Portal de la Barca, just a short walk from the Cathedral, this hotel offers a stay steeped in history. Housed in a historic building, its characterful interiors and old-world charm create an experience that feels far removed from the uniform style of a modern chain hotel.
Step outside, and the winding streets of Barri Vell are waiting to be explored, with ancient stone façades, hidden corners, and quiet squares around every turn. It is an especially lovely choice for couples seeking a romantic escape and travellers who enjoy discovering a city’s past on foot.
With a 4.5 rating from nearly 700 reviews and prices starting at around $186 per night, it is worth considering if you want historic surroundings and a memorable base in the heart of Girona.
3. Hotel Carlemany Girona:
Located near Girona’s train station and within easy reach of the city centre, Hotel Carlemany offers a comfortable, modern base for exploring the city and beyond. Its well-appointed rooms provide a relaxing place to return to after a day of sightseeing, while the convenient location makes it a practical choice for both business trips and leisure breaks.
Whether you are spending a weekend discovering Girona’s historic streets or planning day trips by train to other parts of Catalonia, getting around is straightforward. You can enjoy the city’s medieval charm during the day and return to a contemporary setting where comfort and convenience go hand in hand.
With a 4.4 rating from more than 2,300 reviews and prices starting at around $176 per night, Hotel Carlemany is worth considering for travellers who value easy transport connections, modern comforts, and a well-placed base for a short stay.
4. Hotel Ciutat de Girona:
Located on Carrer del Nord, Hotel Ciutat de Girona puts you within easy walking distance of the Cathedral, charming old streets, and the cafés and restaurants that give the city its welcoming atmosphere. Inside, the modern rooms offer a comfortable place to unwind after a day spent discovering Girona’s historic sights and hidden corners.
The hotel also features indoor cycling facilities, making it an appealing option for cyclists and active travellers who want to combine sightseeing with time on two wheels. Whether you are exploring the medieval quarter, stopping for Catalan food, or heading out to discover more of the region, it provides a convenient base for your stay.
With a 4.6 rating from more than 1,200 reviews and prices starting at around $181 per night, Hotel Ciutat de Girona is worth considering if you want modern comfort, a central location, and easy access to the city’s main attractions.
5. Hotel Palau de Bellavista Girona by URH:
Set on higher ground overlooking Girona, this hotel offers a quieter escape from the bustle of the city centre. Its spacious rooms provide plenty of room to relax, while the outdoor swimming pool is a welcome retreat on warm Catalan afternoons. The elevated setting adds to the sense of calm, making it a lovely choice for travellers who prefer a peaceful atmosphere after a day of sightseeing.
Here, you can slow down between adventures, enjoy a refreshing swim, and take in views across the city before heading out to explore Girona’s historic streets and local restaurants. It is particularly appealing if you want a little more space and tranquillity without giving up the chance to discover the city.
With a 4.3 rating from more than 2,000 reviews and prices starting at around $160 per night, it stands out as one of the more affordable options in this selection, combining comfort, a relaxed setting, and the added pleasure of an outdoor pool.
Best Hotels in Girona for Different Types of Travellers
Couples
Romantic old town streets, boutique hotels and evening walks through Barri Vell make the historic quarter ideal for couples. Hotel Nord 1901 and Hotel Museu Llegendes de Girona are both good fits.
Families
Families usually want spacious rooms, a swimming pool, and a quiet neighbourhood with easy walking access and family-friendly restaurants nearby. Hotel Palau de Bellavista is worth a look for its pool and roomy layout.
First-Time Visitors
Stay near Barri Vell if you can. The main sights are walkable, and you will have plenty of restaurants and cafes close by.
Luxury Travellers
Look for historic properties with elegant rooms, good dining, views and, where available, spa facilities. Girona has fewer large luxury resorts than some bigger cities, so the appeal tends to come from character and setting.
Budget Travellers
Hotels outside the most expensive historic streets, guesthouses and simple central accommodation can all save you money. Properties near the train station are often good value too.
Old Town or City Centre: Where Should You Stay in Girona?
The old town has a medieval atmosphere and is close to the historic attractions. It is romantic and great for sightseeing, though the streets can be narrow and access is harder with a car or heavy bags.
The city centre is more practical. You are near the shops and restaurants, access is easier, and it suits short stays well. If atmosphere matters most, choose the old town. If convenience matters most, choose the centre. Since Girona is small, you are never far from the other area either way.
How Much Does a Hotel in Girona Cost?
Prices depend on the season, whether you travel on a weekend or midweek, local festivals and big events, the type of room, the hotel category, and how early you book. The hotels in this guide start at roughly 160 to 211 dollars, but you should always check your exact dates.
Budget hotels offer simple rooms and basic facilities, which is fine if you will spend most of your time out exploring. Mid-range hotels give you more comfort, central locations,s and extra amenities. Luxury hotels bring larger rooms, historic buildings, premium facilities, es and higher-end dining.
Best Time to Book a Hotel in Girona
Spring
Spring has mild weather, and the streets and gardens look beautiful. It is excellent for walking.
Summer
Summer is warm and popular, especially with people combining Girona with a Costa Brava trip. Demand is higher, so book early.
Autumn
Temperatures are pleasant in autumn, and it is a lovely time for food, culture, and exploring the old town.
Winter
Winter is quieter; the city feels relaxed, and accommodation prices can be lower.
How Many Nights Should You Stay in Girona?
One Night
One night is enough for the essentials: the old town, the Cathedral, the Jewish Quarter, and a walk beside the Onyar River.
Two Nights
Two nights let you slow down. You can enjoy local restaurants, visit a few museums, and spend more time wandering the medieval streets.
Three or More Nights
With three nights or more, you can use Girona as a base for day trips to the Costa Brava, Figueres, Cadaqués, Besalú and Banyoles.
What to Look for When Choosing a Hotel in Girona
Choosing the right hotel in Girona starts with finding the right place to stay. Think about how close you want to be to the old town, with its winding stone streets and historic squares, or to the train station if you plan to explore Catalonia by rail. Girona is a wonderful city for walking, but it is worth checking the distances before you book. If you are arriving by car, make sure parking is available, as finding a space in the historic centre can be difficult.
Comfort matters, too, especially when you are spending several days away from home. Air conditioning can make summer nights more pleasant, while a swimming pool offers a welcome break on warm afternoons. Families may prefer spacious rooms, and practical details such as Wi-Fi, accessibility, breakfast, and an on-site restaurant can make your stay easier. Before confirming your reservation, take a moment to read the cancellation policy so you know your options if your plans change.
Tips for Booking Hotels in Girona
Girona has a special charm in every season, but popular weekends can bring more visitors, so booking early is a sensible choice. Before making a reservation, look beyond the hotel address and check the actual walking distance to the places you want to visit. A hotel that looks close on a map may be less convenient than you expect.
If you are travelling by car, consider staying just outside Barri Vell, where parking may be easier to arrange. Compare the cost of a room with breakfast included against the price of booking breakfast separately, and take time to read recent guest reviews for a clearer picture of the experience. Most importantly, check the cancellation conditions carefully. A little planning before you arrive can leave you with more time to enjoy Girona once you are there.
Is Girona a Good Place to Stay for a Costa Brava Trip?
Yes. Girona makes a convenient base for exploring northern Catalonia, particularly if you enjoy spending your days discovering new places and returning in the evening to a city filled with cafés, restaurants, and historic streets. You can explore the region during the day, then settle into Girona’s relaxed atmosphere when the sun begins to set.
Girona to the Costa Brava
The Costa Brava is close enough for a rewarding day trip, with sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and hidden coves waiting along the Mediterranean shore. Having a car gives you greater freedom to explore different stretches of coastline, although buses can also connect Girona with selected coastal destinations. Check routes and timetables before setting off, especially if you plan to visit smaller seaside towns.
Girona to Figueres
Figueres is an easy day trip from Girona and a wonderful choice for anyone interested in Salvador Dalí. The town is closely associated with the surrealist artist, and the Dalí Theatre-Museum is its best-known attraction. It is a chance to step into a world of unusual shapes, bold colours, and imaginative ideas before returning to Girona for a quieter evening.
Girona to Barcelona
Barcelona is also within reach thanks to the high-speed train, making a day trip possible for travellers who want to combine Girona’s more relaxed pace with the energy of a larger city. Spend the day exploring Barcelona’s architecture, markets, and lively streets, then return to Girona when you are ready for a calmer end to the evening. Check train schedules and journey times when planning your trip.
Girona is a city that rewards you for slowing down. Imagine waking up close to its ancient stone lanes, wandering towards the cathedral as the streets begin to stir, and stopping for coffee beside the colourful houses along the Onyar River. As evening falls, find a table in a quiet square and enjoy Catalan flavours while the city’s historic walls glow in the fading light.
Whether you choose a character-filled hotel in Barri Vell or a modern stay near the train station, the best choice is the one that suits your plans and the way you like to travel. Look for a location that makes exploring easy, a room where you can truly relax, and the comforts that matter most to you.
With the right hotel, Girona becomes more than a place to spend the night. It becomes your own little corner of Catalonia, a welcoming base for discovering the Costa Brava, visiting Figueres, or taking a journey to Barcelona, all while enjoying the timeless charm of a city worth exploring at your own pace.
