When you casually filter the flights and see Girona for £30 return, it’s impossible not to book it. So I did, but then expenses started to grow. With my partner joining the trip, we had to book parking and accommodation. Before I knew it, we’d spent £200 without even leaving our bedroom. At least we knew the weather would be guaranteed during our stay in Spain. Or so we thought.

An Unexpected Start

Our adventure began with a hiccup. Our flight was diverted from Girona airport to Barcelona due to a heavy storm. Instead of arriving at midday, we found ourselves scrambling to find an open place to grab some food late at night. Luckily, we weren’t disappointed. We dined at “Francina,” enjoying great wine and lager followed by a selection of different food choices we shared. Although it wasn’t the cheapest option at €95, it was worth every penny.

We slept at Hotel BESTPRICE Girona, which cost us €77 for one night. It was clean, spacious enough, and centrally located. The only thing missing was a kettle and a bag of mint tea in the room, but we survived without it.

Day One: Exploring Girona’s Charm

The next morning, we decided not to rush. After a late start, we had a sandwich and coffee at Eiximenis coffee shop. The bread spread with tomatoes instead of butter was a delightful alternative for those who are lactose intolerant and tasted delicious. Recharged, we set out to explore the city on foot, as everything we wanted to see was within walking distance.

Girona’s Jewish Quarter: El Call

Girona’s narrow streets, friendly locals, and surprisingly few tourists make it a perfect place to relax for a day. Our first stop was the historically significant Jewish quarter, “El Call.” This area once housed one of the world’s main schools of Kabbalah during the Middle Ages. The maze of narrow, winding streets transports you back in time, offering a glimpse into the lives of Girona’s medieval Jewish community. Unfortunately, the city’s Jewish population was forced to leave in 1492 due to the Alhambra Decree, which expelled all Jews from Spain. Despite this dark chapter, El Call remains a vibrant part of Girona’s heritage, with its well-preserved architecture and the Jewish History Museum providing valuable insights into its past.

Basilica de Sant Feliu

One of the first stops on our walking tour was the Basilica de Sant Feliu. This stunning church, with its blend of Gothic and Romanesque architecture, is a must-see. The basilica’s striking bell tower dominates the skyline, offering a glimpse into Girona’s rich history. Inside, the church houses an impressive collection of religious art and ancient sarcophagi, adding to its allure. The basilica’s serene atmosphere and beautiful stained glass windows provide a peaceful respite from the bustling city outside.

Girona Cathedral

For many, Girona’s main attraction is its historic cathedral. A model of Catalan Gothic architecture, the current Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona was constructed between the 11th and 18th centuries. This cathedral played a starring role in season six of Game of Thrones, where Girona was transformed into the city of Braavos. Its impressive nave, the widest Gothic nave in the world, is breathtaking. The cathedral also boasts a beautiful cloister and an extensive museum with a collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, and tapestries. Climbing the cathedral’s bell tower offers panoramic views of Girona and the surrounding countryside, making it a highlight of our visit.

Arab Baths

At only €3 per person, a visit to Girona’s Arab Baths won’t break the bank. These 12th-century baths, inspired by Roman bathhouses, offer a fascinating glimpse into medieval life. The intricate architecture, featuring horseshoe arches and a beautiful central dome, and the tranquil atmosphere make it a perfect spot for some quiet reflection. Exploring the different rooms, including the frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (warm room), and caldarium (hot room), provided an intriguing insight into the bathing rituals of the past.

Girona’s City Walls

For incredible views, we explored Girona’s city walls. Walking along these ancient fortifications, we enjoyed panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding countryside. The walls, which date back to Roman times and were expanded during the medieval period, provide a unique perspective on Girona’s historical and architectural evolution. The walk is well-signposted, and several towers along the way offer elevated viewpoints, perfect for capturing the beauty of Girona on camera.

River Onyar and Its Bridges

Exploring along the River Onyar, we were captivated by the colorful houses that line the riverbanks. These vividly painted facades create a picturesque scene that’s quintessentially Girona. We strolled across several of the city’s 11 bridges, including the famous Eiffel Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel before he built his iconic tower in Paris. Each bridge offers a different perspective of the river and the charming buildings that flank it. The vibrant reflections in the water, especially at sunset, make for a photographer’s dream.

Local Delicacies: Xuixo

No visit to Girona is complete without trying the local pastry, Xuixo. This delicious treat, invented in Girona in the early 20th century, is a deep-fried, sugar-coated pastry filled with creamy custard. We sampled a few different options, but the ones filled with Catalan cream were the best. This sweet treat, with its flaky pastry and creamy filling, was the perfect pick-me-up during our explorations. Paired with a coffee from one of the many charming cafes, it made for a delightful afternoon snack.

Temps de Flors: The Flower Festival

Although we missed the spectacular flower festival, Temps de Flors, by just one day, we still saw remnants of its beauty around the city. Every year since its launch in 1954, the festival transforms Girona into a living art installation for one week in May, filling the streets with magnificent colours and flowers from all over the world. From elaborate floral sculptures to beautiful arrangements in historic buildings, the festival is a visual feast that attracts visitors from far and wide. Even catching the tail end of it, we were impressed by the creativity and vibrant colours on display.

Delving Deeper into Girona

We continued our exploration with a tour along the Rambla de la Libertad. This smaller, quieter version of La Rambla in Barcelona is lined with shops and restaurants, as well as trees, green areas, and courtyards. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Rambla’s historic buildings and charming arcades add to its appeal, making it a great place to start the day.

Placa d’Independencia

The Placa d’Independencia is a great place to take in an evening aperitif. This bustling square, surrounded by elegant arcades and lively cafes, is the ideal spot to recount your day with your travel companions or simply sit and watch life go by. The square’s central location makes it a popular meeting point for both locals and tourists. As we sipped on our drinks, we enjoyed people-watching and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Girona’s evening life.

Escales de Sant Martí

A short walk from the Jewish Museum brought us to another beautiful part of Girona featured in Game of Thrones – the Escales de Sant Martí. These grand steps lead up to the Church of Sant Martí Sacosta, offering another glimpse into Girona’s rich architectural heritage. The steps, flanked by historic buildings, create a dramatic setting that’s perfect for photos. As we climbed, we appreciated the blend of history and natural beauty that makes Girona so special.

Parc de la Devesa

If you have time, take a walk between the trees at Parc de la Devesa. This expansive park, with its towering plane trees and tranquil pathways, offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle. The park is one of the largest urban parks in Catalonia and provides ample space for walking, jogging, or simply relaxing in nature. Its lush greenery and serene atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind and reflect on the beauty of Girona.

A Final Note

During your visit, please bear in mind that Girona is home to many locals who cherish their peace and quiet. Be respectful of their space and mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas.

Girona is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. From its ancient walls and stunning cathedrals to its vibrant festivals and delicious pastries, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Our trip, despite its unexpected start, turned out to be a memorable adventure filled with delightful discoveries and unforgettable experiences.

Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Girona offers a perfect blend of attractions to suit every traveller’s tastes. So next time you see a flight deal to this charming city, don’t hesitate – book it and prepare for an incredible journey, and do not forget to share it with me :).