Girona catalonia spain. Open the left menu of Girona. Districts. Where is the best place to live?
Girona is a large Spanish city, which is the capital of the province of the same name. It is part of Catalonia and is a favorite destination for travelers due to its favorable geographical location, abundance of architectural attractions and various festivals.
The city of Girona is located in the northeast of Spain, near Barcelona and the famous resorts of the Costa Brava. It was founded in the 1st century BC. Roman Empire and served as a fortress called Gerunda. Girona became famous as the “city of a thousand sieges”, as it was located on the most important ancient road along which Roman troops marched.
The symbol of the city is the Girona lioness. This sculpture was made in the 11th century and has remained in its original form to this day. You can see it at the city art museum.
Girona is a very picturesque city, with its ancient history, abundance of attractions and architectural monuments. Most tourists come here to look at the narrow pavements, the vaults of the cathedral, which rises above the city, and also to visit the shops that sometimes sell the most unusual things. The city constantly hosts fascinating exhibitions and carnivals with street musicians.
Sights of Girona
The beauty of Girona can be appreciated immediately, because it is located on a hill above the river. A little further is the city embankment, along the banks of which there are houses with multi-colored facades. The most interesting places in Girona include the following objects.
Jewish Quarter
Most of Girona's attractions are located in the Jewish Quarter. This is the medieval part of the old town with narrow streets and cobblestone roads. Traveling through this quarter, you will come across a large number of stone arches, in the center of which is the Star of David. This is a kind of reminder of the past times of prosperity of Jewish communities, which were later persecuted by the Catholic Church.
In some houses, small holes have been preserved to this day for attaching parchments with verses for prayer for good luck and protection. Leaving the house, the Jews prayed and touched the parchment with their hands, asking God to send them luck that day.
Girona Cathedral
This is an old church built in the 11th century. It includes several walls and rooms made in different styles. A long staircase, which consists of 90 steps, leads to the main cathedral facade. And inside the cathedral there is a 23-meter Gothic nave, which is the second largest in the world. The Girona Cathedral of the Virgin Mary is an important architectural monument and a fine example of the Gothic Catalan style.
Arab baths
Another interesting monument of Girona is the Arab Baths. They date back to the 12th-13th centuries, but many historians claim that these baths were here even before this period. The baths consist of 5 halls that have their own purpose.
Forsa Velha
Forsa Vella is a once mighty fortress built in Girona by the ancient Romans in the 1st century BC. It served as a city fortification against invaders for many hundreds of years. The remains of this wall can be seen today in their original and untouched form.
Monastery of St. Peter Galligans
A famous place in Girona is the monastery of St. Perth Galligans. This is a medieval Benedictine monastery of unique construction with a temple, a basilica and a tower made in the form of an octagon. Now it houses a museum that hosts exhibitions of archaeological finds.
Girona fortress walls
The city walls in Girona were built in the 9th century and were the longest in Catalonia. They have survived to this day, providing an excellent opportunity for tourists to walk along the alleys that are located along the perimeter of the wall. On the towers of the walls there are observation platforms that allow you to see Girona in all its glory.
Liberty Boulevard
This is a long stretch of Girona along the Onyar River, which dates back to the 13th century. The boulevard's many multi-level arches are home to local restaurants and shops.
Catalan Girona is a city where Romanesque buildings from the 10th-12th centuries still stand, and museums house valuable artifacts from the Roman period and the dark times of the Early Middle Ages. The power of the past centuries seems to have frozen forever in the facades of the houses of the Jewish Quarter and the outlines of the formidable Romanesque temples.
Girona is located at a distance from the coveted beaches of the Costa Brava, but this does not make the city lose its value. Many tourists come here on excursions from coastal resort towns to diversify their lazy beach holiday, and are satisfied. In addition to the grandiose architectural attractions, Girona has several worthwhile museums housing priceless exhibits of great interest to history buffs.
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What to see and where to go in Girona?
The most interesting and beautiful places for walks. Photos and brief description.
The fortress walls of Girona were erected in the 1st century during the heyday of the Roman Empire, they were part of the defensive structures that protected the road from Rome to Seville. Only a small part of the walls, which have been restored, has survived to this day. Observation platforms located around the perimeter offer panoramic views of the city. Nowadays, the fortress walls are a popular tourist attraction.
11th century sculpture installed next to the Church of Sant Feliu. The figure of the lioness is somewhat reminiscent of the famous Roman she-wolf. There are many beliefs associated with this attraction. According to one of them, it is believed that if you kiss a lioness on the backside, all your wishes will come true. For these purposes, there is even a special ladder attached to the sculpture. In fact, the sculpture is the heraldic symbol of Girona, and kissing in an unusual place is just a joke custom.
Jews began to settle in Girona in the 9th century. Their community was very powerful before the wave of persecution that swept across Europe in the 15th century. The expelled Jews were replaced by poor Christian families who did not improve the houses of the quarter. That is why the area has reached us almost in its original form. Nowadays, El Kal has turned into a bohemian quarter, where real estate costs a lot of money.
One of the central squares of Girona, located on the site of the monastery of St. Augustine. The architectural appearance of the place took shape in the 19th century. The square is surrounded by austere facades of neoclassical buildings and sculptural colonnades. Massive social events, holiday markets and music festivals are held here. On Independence Square there are many restaurants and bars with open summer areas.
The central promenade of Girona, filled with tourists in any season. Rambla de la Libertad has numerous cafes, boutiques and souvenir shops. Until 1809, a city wall ran along the street, but it was destroyed by Napoleon's troops. On weekends there is a flower market where a huge number of different species are sold. From the street you can turn into the Jewish quarter or walk to the bridges over the Onyar River.
The first Romanesque church on the site of the modern cathedral was erected in the 11th century. In the Roman era there was a pagan sanctuary here. In the 14th century, a Gothic building appeared, which was completed only in the 16th century. As a result of later reconstructions, the cathedral acquired a Baroque façade. The courtyard of the church has been preserved since the 12th century; inside there are many ancient relics of great cultural value.
The temple was erected in the 14th century on the site of an early Romanesque church, where the tombs of the city's patrons, St. Philip and St. Narcissus, were located. In the 16th century, a tower was added to the building, and in the 17th century, work on finishing the facade was completed. The interior has retained its austere Romanesque appearance with characteristic massive galleries. Roman and early Christian burials have also been preserved on the territory of the temple.
The monastery was founded in the 12th century and first belonged to the brothers of the Order of St. Benedict. A building in the Romanesque style with a two-story bell tower has survived to this day. In the 14th century, the complex became part of the state. Since the 19th century, the abbey has housed a museum, now known as the Archaeological Museum of Girona. One of its most valuable exhibits is considered to be the antique mosaic “Chariot Races” and an ancient sarcophagus dating back to the 4th century.
The museum's exhibition is dedicated to the history and culture of the Jewish community, which has lived in Catalonia since the Early Middle Ages. The collection is housed in 11 thematic rooms, which include “Diaspora”, “Jewish Quarter”, “Synagogue”, “Cemetery” and others. In the museum you can learn about the life and everyday life of Jews, traditions and religious rituals. Periodically, temporary exhibitions are organized on the territory of the museum.
A private museum that owns a fairly impressive exhibition consisting of 30 thousand items. The collection is dedicated to the history of theater and cinema, from the period of Antiquity to the present day. The museum houses the Lumiere brothers' film projector, many old posters, photographs and films. The gallery was opened in 1998, it became the first museum of this kind in Spain.
The museum is located in the building of the Bishop's Palace, which, according to evidence, was erected in the 10th century. The last reconstruction of the building dates back to the 16th century, when features of the Renaissance era were introduced into the architectural appearance of the palace. The museum collection consists of 8.5 thousand exhibits. Historical artifacts belonging to the time period from the Roman era to the 20th century are stored here.
The baths are located in the central part of Girona; they were built in the 12th century during the reign of King Alfonso I. The structure was built in a style typical of North African cities. At first, the baths belonged to the royal family, but after reconstruction in the 13th century, access was open to everyone. In the 15th century, the baths again came into private ownership and were subsequently closed. In the 20th century, reconstruction was carried out.
A pedestrian bridge over the Onyar River, designed by the famous G. Eiffel, the architect of the Paris Eiffel Tower. The Girona bridge was built in 1876, the design was revolutionary for its time, as Eiffel used metal ties to increase strength. The Gustave Eiffel Bridge is a fairly compact structure that blends harmoniously into the surrounding landscape.
A small city park covering an area of 40 hectares, on the territory of which grow huge 150-year-old trees with a trunk height of up to 50 meters. It’s good to be in the shadow of these giants during the sweltering Catalan heat. The park contains a Botanical Garden and a banana grove. For city residents and tourists, this place is a real green oasis, providing long-awaited coolness.
A water artery flowing through the center of Girona. The embankment of the Onyar River is lined with houses with colored facades, which gives it a rather festive and elegant look. These facades have long become the hallmark of the city; many tourists come to see them. The houses were built in the 17th century on the site of a demolished city wall; since then they have been rebuilt several times, but still retain their original appearance.
Girona (Spain) - the most detailed information about the city with photos. The main attractions of Girona with descriptions, guides and maps.
City of Girona (Spain)
Girona is a city in Spain in the autonomy of Catalonia, the capital of the province of the same name. Located in the north-eastern part of the country on the Onyar River, which divides it into two parts: the left bank is modern buildings, the right bank is the medieval historical center. Girona is one of the oldest cities in Spain with one of the last well-preserved Jewish quarters. Throughout its history, the city has survived several dozen sieges, which explains its powerful fortifications that still surround the historical center. Game of Thrones fans may recognize the medieval stone streets of Girona from Season 6, where they belonged to the city of Braavos.
Girona is often described as the gateway to the popular resorts of the Costa Brava, as well as the departure point for many budget airline passengers heading to Barcelona. The northern borders of the province approach the Catalan Pyrenees, where ski resorts are located. Most tourists immediately go to the coast or to Barcelona, without paying attention to Girona. Which, of course, is in vain! The city has preserved its medieval old center, ancient fortifications and historical atmosphere.
Geography and climate
Girona is located in the far northeast of Spain close to the French border and the Costa Brava. The city is crossed by the Onyar River. The average altitude above sea level is 81 m. The climate is humid subtropical. Summer is hot and dry. The hottest months are July and August. Winters are mild with rare negative temperatures.
Practical information
- Population - 99 thousand people.
- Area - 39.14 square kilometers.
- Language - Spanish and Catalan (Catalan).
- Currency - euro.
- Visa - Schengen.
- Time - Central European UTC +1, summer +2.
- The tourist information center is located at Rambla de la Llibertat, 1.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit is April-October. In summer it can get quite hot.
Story
On the site of Girona, on the way to Gaul, the Iberians built a fortress. Under the Romans, the fortified city of Gerunda was already located here. After the collapse of the Roman Empire, Girona belonged to the Visigoths. In the 715th century the city was conquered by the Moors, but already in 785 it was recaptured by Charlemagne. The Moorish influence had virtually no effect on its architecture. For several centuries, Girona was a stronghold military point in the wars with the Moors.
In the 9th century the city joined Barcelona, maintaining its autonomy until the 13th century. In the mid-14th century, the County of Girona was granted by the King of Aragon to the heir to the throne. Since then, the title "Prince of Girona" became official for the future king. In the 14th-16th centuries the city was one of the most important on the western coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Girona had one of the largest Jewish communities in Spain.
Surprisingly, over its long history, Girona has survived 25 sieges and was captured 7 times. From the 17th to the 18th centuries the city was captured by the French several times.
How to get there
Girona is located 98 km from Barcelona. From the capital of Catalonia you can easily get here by train, bus or car. The airport is located 20 km south of the city. Buses leave every hour for Girona and Barcelona. You can also get there by bus and train from some cities in France and Spain. There are direct high-speed trains from Paris to Barcelona.
Shopping and purchases
Girona's old town mainly contains shops for tourists. Although there is a fairly large selection of stores with famous brands. On Saturday, a market is held in a park northwest of the city center.
Food and drink
Traditional dishes from the province of Girona: small tortillas with bacon, sausages, stew with peas, fried anchovies, hare with chestnuts, soup with mint or thyme, cod dishes, Xuixo (similar to a French croissant), fried potato balls with meat. We recommend avoiding popular tourist spots: Rambla de la Libertat and Plaça Independencia. Many cafes and restaurants do not guarantee the quality of food and service.
Attractions
Girona is the sparkling ancient jewel of Catalonia. This medieval walled city has a rich cultural and historical heritage from the ancient Romans to the Jews. The historical center is located on the right bank of the Onyar River with colorful houses adjacent to the very bank.
Girona's old town has two areas surrounded by ancient fortified walls: Força Vella, which housed the original Roman city founded over 2,000 years ago, and the medieval quarter which expanded it in the 14th and 15th centuries. These atmospheric old districts are filled with narrow pedestrian streets and impressive medieval buildings. Girona's first city fortifications were built by the Romans, strengthened under Charlemagne and in the 14th century. You can not only explore the ancient walls of the city, but also walk along them.
The Jewish Quarter or El Call is one of the best preserved in Spain. It's a maze of tiny cobbled alleys and stone staircases from the 12th to 15th centuries that you can get lost in. During the Middle Ages, this quarter was home to an important synagogue and centers for the study of Kabbalists.
The Cathedral or Church of Santa Maria is one of Girona's most impressive landmarks. The cathedral was built between the 11th and 18th centuries. It is a combination of different architectural styles, including a Romanesque cloister and a Gothic nave, which is the widest in the world. Inside the cathedral there is a museum displaying important religious works.
The Onyar River crosses the whole of Girona and is an integral part of it. The famous colorful houses that cling to the edge of the river have long become a symbol of the city. We recommend seeing the stone arched bridge Pont de Pedra and the Pont de les Peixateries Velles bridge, designed by Gustav Eiffel.
Arab baths are actually more similar to Roman ones. They were built in the 12th century, inspired by ancient Roman baths. These structures operated until the 14th century. The entrance hall, with its central basin and slender decorative columns, is the most impressive.
Sant Pere is a medieval Benedictine monastery, one of the most beautiful examples of Romanesque architecture in all of Catalonia. It was built in the 12th century, but there is evidence that the original structure dates back to the 10th century.
Sant Feliu is an impressive basilica and the first cathedral of Girona. The church was founded in the 10th century. It has a Gothic nave and a Baroque façade from the 13th to 18th centuries. The high bell tower was built between the 14th and 16th centuries.
Sant Domenech was built between the 13th and 14th centuries and is one of the first Gothic buildings in Catalonia. It includes a magnificent old church.
Sant'Daniel is a medieval monastery built on the outskirts of Girona in a lush green valley. The monastery houses the tomb of St. Daniel.
Girona's largest park is Devesa. It covers an area of more than 40 hectares and is considered the largest in Catalonia. This is an ideal place for a walk or even a small picnic.
Museums of Girona
The most interesting museums in Girona:
- Archaeological Museum in the Monastery of Sant Pere.
- Art museum in the old bishop's palace. Contains collections of art from the Romanesque period to the early 20th century.
- Museum of Jewish History - details the history of Jewish medieval communities in Catalonia and the Kingdom of Aragon from the 9th to the 15th centuries.
- Historical Museum - artifacts from Antiquity to modern times. The museum includes 14 exhibition halls.
Girona is an extremely compact and cozy city. The small historical center manages to accommodate monuments and attractions of different cultures and eras: fortifications and a wall from the times of the Roman Empire, medieval buildings with a Gothic cathedral, the rustic but at the same time unique architecture of the Jewish Quarter. All the sights coexist with each other with incredible harmony, forming a single whole.
Girona will not take much time; you will only need to spend half a day to get acquainted with the two-thousand-year history of the city. It doesn't have the overwhelming number of tourists that Barcelona does. There is no fuss and no need to use public transport, just leisurely walks along the ancient streets of the city. Here, like nowhere before, you can feel yourself in another time and era.
How to get to Girona
The city is located in northeastern Spain, in the autonomous community of Catalonia. More than 100 thousand people live in Girona and everything is in order with transport accessibility, it has its own airport, a developed rail and bus system. The border with France is about 60 km, and the capital of Catalonia, Barcelona, is just over 100 km.
Girona Airport
Full name Girona-Costa Brava Airport, code designation in search engines GRO. The airport accepts both domestic and international flights. You can view the full flight route map on the airport’s official website.
Recently, Pobeda has been flying here from Russia. Direct flights are operated from Moscow and St. Petersburg. The number of flights per week constantly changes depending on the season; find current prices and schedules below.
I have experience flying Pobeda to Girona airport. I can't say anything bad. Arrived on time, reasonable price. If you are specifically planning to explore Girona and the surrounding area of the Costa Brava, then it is worth flying here so as not to waste time on the road from Barcelona.
Bus to Girona center
Buses run regularly between the airport and the city bus station (Estació d’Autobusos de Girona). The route is operated by Sagales. On the carrier’s official website you can view the current schedule and also purchase a ticket online. Travel time is about half an hour. Depending on the season and time of day, the intervals between flights range from 30 minutes to an hour. Ticket price 2.75 euros.
Barcelona Airport
The largest air hub in Catalonia and Spain as a whole. El Prat Airport (BCN) receives hundreds of flights from all over the world. Such large carriers as Aeroflot, S7, U-Tair, Ural Airlines, as well as the Spanish low-cost airline Vueling fly here from Russia. Everyone can choose a convenient departure/arrival time and airline.
There is a direct bus number 602 from Barcelona Airport to Girona. Transportation is provided by the same company - Sagales.
Approximate travel time is 2.5 hours. Ticket price is 19 euros. I recommend viewing the current schedule and purchasing a ticket (online) on the official website.
From Barcelona to Girona
There are two ways to get to Girona from Barcelona, by bus or train. I recommend the second option, faster and more comfortable.
Train to Girona
In Spain, the analogue of our Russian Railways is the Renfe company. Therefore, we immediately go to their website, look at the schedule and buy tickets. There is no need to contact intermediaries, including Russian-language portals that sell tickets with a commission.
Trains to Girona depart from Barcelona-Sants station. Travel time varies from 40 minutes to 2 hours. It all depends on the type of train you choose.
- REGIONALS- an analogue of our electric trains, it goes with all stops. Tickets must be purchased directly at the station;
- MD (Medium Distance)— “advanced” train, makes fewer stops and is more comfortable. Tickets can also be purchased at the station ticket office;
- AVANT, AVE- high-speed trains in Spain. The travel time is the same, about 40 minutes, only AVANT is usually significantly cheaper. It is possible to purchase a ticket online.
It seems to me that the choice is obvious. The most convenient way to get to Girona is by AVANT train, which is fast and affordable.
Bus to Girona
We use the same route of the Sagales company under number 602. See its schedule in the section above. Buses depart from the Estació Del Nord bus station. Travel time is about 2 hours, provided there are no traffic jams. Barcelona is a large metropolis, so during rush hour you can spend an extra couple of hours leaving the city.
To Girona by car
Above I described the most popular and popular public transport routes. If you are traveling in a rented car, then you should consider some features of traveling by car.
Toll roads to Girona
Catalonia has a developed network of toll roads. If you move around using a navigator, then in 90% of cases it will certainly direct you to toll sections. Consider this expense item in your budget. For example, on the way from Barcelona to Girona, the cost of travel on toll roads will be about 20 euros. From Girona airport to the city center - 4 euros. The payment procedure is simple and clear. At the entrance to the toll section you take a ticket, at the exit you insert it into the machine and pay. Cards and cash are accepted, no problems.
There is one very useful resource - Michelin. There you can enter the point of departure/destination and see toll sections on the route, as well as the cost of travel. If you wish, you can get confused and plan your route along free roads.
Usually the problem with parking is solved simply - the hotel where you book a room provides a space for free. In Girona, most accommodation options do not have this service. You can look at the map of paid and free parking in the Parkme service, the picture is clickable.
I advise you not to go into the historical center and leave your car in the large free parking lot in the north.
Where to stay in Girona
Girona is a very compact city. Its historical center can be explored on foot in a couple of hours. All attractions are nearby. Most hotels are located within the historic center, so you don’t need to worry about which area to stay in Girona.
Girona Map
Sights of Girona
To get to know Girona you need to walk, and a lot. Overcoming numerous ascents and descents along the steps of the narrow cobbled streets of the city. It doesn't matter in what order you visit the sights, they are located next to each other. The main thing here is to relax and feel the spirit of this city. To prepare for your trip, I only recommend putting marks on your map so as not to miss anything.
Bridges of Girona
What is the most famous photo of Girona? — of course, colorful houses along the Onyar River. This is where I will begin the description. First of all, it is worth noting that there is no embankment along the river as such. The buildings are located close to the canal; there is no space for pedestrians to pass through.
The right and left banks of the historical center are connected by five bridges, from which the very symbolic image of Girona opens. All of them are marked on the map of city attractions. In order not to clutter the article with photos of the same type, I’ll tell you about the three bridges that I liked the most.
Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles)
Girona's most popular bridge among tourists. Its design attracts everyone's attention; it is made entirely of steel. The design was carried out by the Eiffel company. Yes, the same Eiffel, after whom the tower in Paris is named.
Pont de Pedra Bridge
The southernmost bridge, which is located on the improvised border of the old quarter and the modern Eixample district. In my opinion, it offers the best view of the Girona canal. The Eiffel Bridge, colorful houses and the cathedral in the background look harmonious in the frame.
Pont de Sant Agusti bridge
Located in the central part of the canal. From here you can clearly see the entire embankment of the historical center of Girona. In terms of photogenicity, the view from the bridge is slightly inferior to the previous two.
Wall Passeig De La Muralla
A defensive structure created during the Roman Empire. Some sections of the wall have survived from the 1st century, unthinkable. This is the place I remember most in Girona.
The wall offers a stunning panorama of the city.
There are several entry and exit points, but I recommend going all the way. The beginning of the route is marked on the general map at the top “Begin Wall”. The walk takes about 1.5 hours.
I read that you should definitely watch the sunset from here. In the rays of the setting sun the city looks unreal. Unfortunately, it was cloudy on our only night in Girona, so no photos.
Jewish Quarter
Another top place in the city. Girona was home to one of the largest Jewish communities in Europe. The labyrinth of narrow, tangled streets on the hill is now a World Heritage Site.
Now there is an archeology museum inside the monastery; for more information about prices and opening hours, see the “museums” section.
Be sure to take a walk here, the place definitely deserves attention, as well as any corner of the historical center of Girona.
Santa Lucia Observation Deck
Near the monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants there is another very interesting place - an observation deck next to the chapel of Santa Lucia.
To get to it and enjoy the view of Girona, you need to climb the wall that surrounds the chapel. Unfortunately, the lookout is not marked on Google maps; they don’t even show the wall itself, so take the Santa Lucia Chapel as a guide and you’ll figure it out.
Girona Cathedral
This is probably the most famous building in Girona. The cathedral has a long and difficult history of construction. Its construction was carried out by many Spanish architects over several centuries. Hence the uniqueness of the building, which incorporates styles from different eras.
Personally, I was not impressed by the cathedral. No, this is certainly a grandiose structure, but I have already seen dozens of them all over Europe. therefore, I am more inclined to believe that the panoramas of Girona from the Roman Wall are a much more impressive sight in this city.
Rambla De La Libertat
As I already said, Girona is an inimitable mixture of different cultures and architecture. In what other city in the world can you see the Roman fortress wall in a couple of hours, then medieval cathedrals, the Jewish Quarter and, in addition, walk along the classic Catalan shopping street?
Rambla De La Libertat has served as the city's commercial and commercial center for many centuries. Today there are shops, boutiques and a large number of restaurants and cafes here.
After a long busy day in Girona, this is a great place to end your day with a glass of sangria.
Independence Square (Plaça de la Independència)
It so happens that all the main attractions of Girona are located on the right side of the Onyar River. On the left side there is only one must-see place - Independence Square.
The woman at the reception of our hotel circled the area on the map in bold and accompanied it with the words that this is a favorite place for the residents of Girona, as well as the gastronomic center of the city.
In fact, this is true. There are a lot of Spaniards on Plaça de la Independència, it is noisy and instead of the usual restaurants, there are only tapas bars and snack bars.
Everyone has their own preferences in cuisine, but I prefer to sit in a restaurant. where can I order a full meal? If you like tapas and light snacks, you will like the square.
Museums of Girona
We didn’t go to the museums of Girona; we limited ourselves to walking around the historical center of the city. But to complete the picture, I will also provide information on them below. If something interests you, study the information on the official website of Girona. The points on the general map are marked.
Museum of Jewish History
The exhibition is dedicated to the medieval Jewish community of Catalonia. The daily life of Jewish family life, customs and traditions are presented.
Opening hours
- July August: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 20:00; Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00;
- September - June: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00; Monday, Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00;
- Closed: January 1, 6, December 25, 26.
Entry fee
- Standard ticket: 4 €
- Free entry every first Sunday of the month
Cinema Museum
The museum houses exhibits from the collection of Thomas Magol. I don't know who this is. There is a permanent exhibition, the main idea of which is to show objects associated with the origins of the film industry: projectors, ancient filming equipment and a bunch of other antique things. Temporary thematic exhibitions are also held.
Opening hours:
- September - June:
- July August: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 19:00. Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00.
Entry fee:
- Standard ticket: 6 €
- Reduced ticket: 3 € (students, pensioners)
Museum of the History of Girona
The museum is dedicated to the history of the city. From its founding by the Romans (1st century BC) until 1975.
Opening hours:
- May - September: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 to 18:30; Sunday from 10:30 to 13:30;
- October - April: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:30 to 17:30; Sunday from 10:30 to 13:30;
- Closed: on Mondays, January 1, 6 and December 25, 26.
Entry fee:
- Standard ticket: 4 €
- Free entry: children under 16, and for everyone every first Sunday of the month.
Museum of Archeology
Archaeological finds from excavations in the Girona region are presented. Items from different eras, from prehistory to the Middle Ages.
Opening hours:
- June - September: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 19:00; Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00;
- October - May: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00; Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00;
- Closed: on Mondays, January 1, 6 and December 25 and 26.
Entry fee:
- Standard ticket: 4.50 €
Contains the most important and outstanding works of art of the province of Girona. Starting from the 11th century and ending at the beginning of the 20th.
Opening hours:
- May - September: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 19:00; Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00;
- October - April: Tuesday to Saturday from 10:00 to 18:00; Sunday from 10:00 to 14:00;
- Closed on Mondays.
Entry fee:
- Standard ticket: 4.50 €
Here they cheated a little, drawing in the access to the sea and the harbor. In fact, there is a tiny square ahead that abuts the building.
I think that you should come to Girona overnight. Leisurely explore the city, and in the evening hang out in one of the restaurants. The next morning you can move on with a fresh head.
What to see near Girona
Catalonia is a very rich region in attractions. We've only been here a couple of times and only saw about 10 percent of what there is to see. But I think my experience will also be useful to someone.
If you come here during the beach season, then be sure to check out the resorts of the Costa Brava. My favorite is the coastal town. An excellent place for a quiet and relaxing beach holiday.
During the transitional season, when you can’t swim yet or it’s already late, there is also something to do near Girona. Look, for example, at the villages of Pals and Peratallada, Empuriabrava, the list goes on for a long time.
This is the beauty of organizing a trip yourself, as opposed to a package tour. You can create your own unique route, taking into account only your personal preferences.
Now there are a lot of offers with excursions from the resort towns of the Costa Brava or Barcelona, where one day it is proposed to go to Girona, gallop through the streets as part of a group, and then return back. Well, this is bullshit, don’t use such services, this is not a vacation. Spain is an extremely friendly country for solo travel.
Girona is one of the most attractive cities in Spain, and the attractions of Girona are some of the most interesting in Catalonia. In various chronicles and guidebooks it is often called the “immortal city.” This is due to the fact that during its long history, Girona has withstood more than 25 unsuccessful sieges. The fortress walls protecting the old city have never failed her.
Briefly about the capital of the province
By the way, the fortress walls are a separate attraction. They offer a beautiful panorama of the Old Town, separated from the modern capital of the province of Girona by the Onyar River.
Another top attraction is the Salvador Dali Theater and Museum, located in the small town of Figueres. Figueres is located close to Girona, so getting there is easy.
Where is Girona
The city is located in the northeast of Spain, it is also part of the autonomous community of Catalonia and the capital of the province of the same name. Where Girona is located on the map can be seen below:
Weather in the city and surrounding areas
The weather in Girona remains virtually unchanged throughout the season. During the high season the weather can reach up to +35 degrees. In the average season, the temperature stays around +25.
In summer there is practically no precipitation and it is quite rare to see the city in the rain.
Read about the weather in Spain by month.
How to get to Girona
How to get from Barcelona to Girona? The easiest way to get to the city is by train from Barcelona (especially if the flight is to Barcelona El Prat Airport - Barcelona airport). Travel time – 1 hour (distance from Barcelona to Girona – 103.8 km).
Figueres is located on the route, so you can first stop in this town and then buy a ticket to Girona. Travel time from Figueres to Girona is 15-20 minutes.
Girona train station – new and modern with good tourist navigation By the way, from Barcelona airport there is a Barcelona-Girona bus number 602. Travel time is 1.5 hours. The route from Calella to Girona is quite popular. A large number of buses run on this route. Travel time is about 2 hours. Also in . You can do this in advance by booking a car online, read about it.
Not far from Girona there are two air harbors (Girona's main airports): Girona-Costa Brava Airport and Aeroport de Perpinyà-Rivesaltes. The first is located just 12 km from Girona.
From here, buses and taxis go to the city along the N-II road or the AP-7 highway, so the question of how to get from Girona to Girona airport is not urgent. The second airport is located 110 km from Girona. There are regular bus services from here to the city.
There are direct flights from Moscow to Girona. You can find inexpensive Moscow-Girona air tickets (for example, the price of tickets in October is about 8 thousand rubles). Flight time on the Moscow-Girona route is about 4 hours. There are also direct flights from St. Petersburg to Girona. Travel time is 3 hours 15 minutes. The time difference with Moscow and St. Petersburg is 2 hours.
The best way to get from the Costa Brava is by train. The Adif Girona-Costa Brava train station is located in the city center. Next to it there is a bus station, where buses from the Costa Brava and Barcelona arrive (follow the AP-7 highway). From the same station there are buses from Girona to Barcelona (regular flights, the first at 6.45 in the morning).
Where to stay: accommodation options
There is a large variety of hotels in Girona. But it is best for tourists to choose those that are located near attractions, in the historical center, since hotels located on Plaza Catalunya and Rambla are designed for clients coming to the city on business.
Judging by the reviews of tourists, one of the best hotels is Hotel AC Palau de Bellavista, located at Pujada Polvorins, 1.
An excellent solution for an economy option would be the B&B Bells Oficis hotel, located at Germans Busquets, 2, 2on (Rambla Llibertat).
For young people, the Alberg de Joventut Cerverí de Girona hostel (address: C/Ciutadans, 9. 17004 Girona) is suitable.
In Girona you can easily rent an apartment or even a house in the suburbs. For lovers of active tourism, tent camps are suitable. One of the best is Can Toni Manescal (located in Carretera de Llambilles).
Prices in hostels do not depend on the season (the average price per bed is around 40 euros), but prices for hotel rooms and apartments differ significantly in low and high seasons (prices in high season can be 80% more). Therefore, it is best to book accommodation in advance. Almost all hotels offer discounts for early bookings.
High season prices (average price):
Urban transport
Girona is a relatively small city, but there are plenty of options for getting around:
Sights of Girona
All of Girona's attractions are located in the medieval Old Town area. In order to get here, you need to focus on the Onyar River. From the embankment of the modern part of the city there is a magnificent view of the medieval quarters, which have not lost their color since the 17th century.
Numerous bright houses are the calling card of the city. You can admire them from any point on the embankment, but it is best to choose areas located near the Pont de Pedra and Pont de Sant Agustí bridges. 
View from the Onyar River to ancient houses and the Cathedral at night By the way, Pont de Pedra or Stone Bridge is a separate landmark of Spain. It's incredibly authentic.
Stone bridge Pont de Pedra in the evening Next to it is Plaza Catalunya. In fact, this square is a very wide stone bridge connecting the two banks of the Onyar River - the old and new parts of Girona. It is from this square that all excursions around the old city begin. There is also a small market where you can buy a variety of souvenirs.
Girona is a multicultural city. For many centuries, Jews, Arabs, and Spaniards-Europeans coexisted here. Here is the unique Jewish Quarter, which has preserved authentic medieval features and Arab baths - remnants of the Arab heritage.
This street with a pedestrian path is an avenue by the standards of Girona The Jewish Quarter of Girona (El barrio judío) is a unique place. It was preserved almost in its original form, despite the persecution to which Jews were subjected by Catholic fanatics. The Kabbalistic school located in the quarter is considered one of the strongest in the world.
One of the scenes from the movie “Perfume” was filmed on this street with steps. Arab baths (Los Baños Árabes) were built in the 12th-13th centuries on the site of destroyed Muslim baths. The baths are located at: Ferran el Catòlic s/n17004 Girona. 
Open from 10:00 to 19:00 (on Sundays and holidays - until 14:00). Paid entrance. The cost of a general ticket is 2 euros, a discounted ticket is 1 euro.
Of course, the main attractions of Girona (as well as all of Spain) are churches and cathedrals.
1
Girona Cathedral or La Catedral - the heart of the city. It began to be built in the 14th century and was completed in the 17th century. That is why the architecture of the cathedral harmoniously intertwines Gothic, Romanesque styles, elements characteristic of the Renaissance and the Baroque era.
Cathedral early on a foggy morning 
Night view of the same building 
The staircase leading to the cathedral is also interesting. There is a local legend associated with it.
It is believed that the one who counts an even number of steps going up to the cathedral is a righteous person, and the one who counts an odd number is a sinner. 
The cathedral is located at Plaça de la Catedral 17004 Girona.
He works:
- from July to August – from 10:00 to 19:30;
- from November to March – from 10:00 to 17:30;
- the rest of the year - from 10:00 to 18:30.
Entrance to the Cathedral is paid. The cost of a general ticket is 7 euros, a discounted ticket is 5 euros.
2
Another interesting temple is Sant Feliu or St. Philip (La basílica de Sant Feliu). Saint Philip and Saint Narcissus - patron saints of Girona. It is believed that this 14th-century Gothic temple was erected on the site of the ancient graves of these two saints.
View of the Church of St. Philip (to the left of the Cathedral) One of the most important urban legends is associated with St. Narcissus. It is believed that the flies that flew out of the grave of this saint saved the city from invaders. That is why San Narcissa flies are the most popular souvenir in Girona.
Located at: Pujada de Sant Feliu, 2917004 Girona. Open from 10:00 to 17:30. On weekends – from 14:00 to 17:30.
Paid entrance. The cost of a general ticket is 7 euros, a discounted ticket is 3.5 euros. Children under 7 years old are free.
In the square in front of the Church of Sant Feliu there is a monument to a lion climbing a column - a symbol of the city. Tourists are told that if you reach out and kiss a lion, sooner or later you will certainly return to Girona. 
3
It is also worth looking at the unique Romanesque church-basilica of Sant Nicolau (Sant Pere de Galligants y Sant Nicolau). It was once part of a Benedictine monastery. Now there is a unique museum here, the exhibition of which presents exhibits that reveal all the secrets of the ancient Romanesque architectural style. 
The basilica is located at: Carrer de Santa Llúcia, 817007 Girona. During the high season, the museum is open from 10:00 to 19:00 (on Sunday until 14:00).
Admission fee: 4.5 euros (discount ticket costs 3.5 euros).
4
Next to the fortress walls, which cover the entire area of the Old Town, there is another unique monastery - San Domènec (La universidad y Sant Domènec), the oldest in all of Catalonia.
Now the University of Girona is located within its walls and students live in the monks’ cells, and lectures are given in the halls of the monastery. 
5
The Fortress itself or The Força Vella is a unique historical site, built by the ancient Romans (by the way, parts of the old fortress wall, dating back to the year 1000, can still be seen today). Built during the era of the Kalorings, the first Frankish kings, you can walk along these walls and see the city in all its glory.
The grandeur of the fortress walls 6
It is also worth visiting the valley in which the monastery of San Daniel is located (El valle y el monasterio de Sant Daniel). The monastery itself, built in the 14th century, is a magnificent example of Romanesque-Gothic architecture. 
7
Near the Church of Santa Maria or Sant Martí Sacosta (XVII century), built in Baroque style, there is a very interesting medieval arched structure. We can say that this is the most beautiful part of the Old Town.
St. Mary's Church up the stairs, the facade of the church is literally built into a residential building The city is very beautiful and authentic. This is just a small part of what you can see (photos of Girona are presented below):
Through the narrow streets of the Old Town you can see the Cathedral 
The old part of Girona is paved with smooth rubble, so you need to wear comfortable shoes 
Parks of Girona Museums
There are a sufficient number of museums in Girona. Just enough for a tourist who is fed up with architecture not to get bored.
In Girona, you can purchase a special ticket (ticket M6), which gives you the right to visit 5 museums in the city with a 50% discount. Tickets can be purchased at the box office of any museum.
Remember that all Girona museums are closed on Mondays, as well as 1.01, 6.01, 25.12, 26.12.
What else to see in Girona? The La Casa Masó museum (C. de les Ballesteries, 29 17004 Girona) is also recommended for visiting. La Casa Masó is the house-museum of Raphael Masó, the only open private building on the banks of the Onyar River. 
The furnishings of the early 20th century have been preserved here and many works of Catalan art are collected. Raphael Maso was one of the most famous Catalan architects of the early twentieth century. Many houses and villas in the vicinity of Girona, as well as schools and hospitals, were built according to his designs.
He was also involved in restoration work, preserving the medieval heritage of the city. By the way, Maso was a big fan of Gaudi and tried to give Girona a more modern, but at the same time truly Catalan look. Read about Gaudí's great creation - Park Güell in Barcelona.
Entrance to the house is a museum for a fee. A general ticket costs 5 euros, a reduced ticket costs 2.5 euros. Children under 16 years of age, accompanied by their parents, visit the museum free of charge.
When planning your vacation, it is important to remember that Girona almost always hosts some important events dedicated to the history and culture of the city.
You can imagine this in the form of a table called “Girona – life is in full swing all year round”:
|
Season |
event title |
| 5 January | Three Kings Parade– a colorful event dedicated to the history of the city |
| February (every Tuesday during Shrove Tuesday) | Maslenitsa carnival. In the center of the Old Town and in Plaza Catalunya there are fairs, costume shows, and bazaars. |
| February | Gastronomic forum |
| March | Gastronomy Week. All Girona restaurants operate non-stop and offer the best Catalan cuisine at fabulously low prices. |
| Holy Week (approximately March-April according to the Catholic calendar) | Costume procession “Burial of Christ”. Legions of “Roman soldiers” march along the central streets of the Old Town |
| April 23 | St. George's Day– book and flower fairs. On this day, according to tradition, lovers give each other roses. |
| May | Festival "Time of Flowers". All buildings in the city are decorated with flower arrangements, theatrical performances are held, and fairs are held. |
| September | Napoleonic Festival– a costume performance dedicated to the history of Girona during the Napoleonic wars in Spain |
| October | Festival of St. Narcissus– the most favorite holiday of the townspeople (fairs, street performances, parades, historical reconstructions) |
We talk in more detail about the festivals and holidays held in Girona in another article with many photos.
There are about 166 street points with free Internet in Girona. But in order to access it, you need to register using a special phone number and receive an SMS with a password. This way you can get direct access to an interactive map of the city.
7 things you must do in Girona
There are a few things you simply need to do when you arrive in Girona:
Monument to the defenders of the city of Girona in 1809, created in 1894 by the sculptor Antonio Parera Excursions around Girona
Girona is certainly a picturesque city. But there are a lot of interesting things next to it. Fans of active tourism should pay attention to the following routes:
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Stone route or Ruta de la piedra– This route passes through the old area of the city known as the Quarries. Since time immemorial, even from Roman times, stone was mined here for the construction of the city; there are also ruins of old buildings here, which are also interesting to study.
2
Monte de San Miguel or Monte de Sant Miquel– a beautiful nature trail that leads to Mount San Miguel, which offers beautiful views of the city. There are 2 options for this route: Cal Micalo (along the way you can admire the ruins of medieval fortresses) and Collet d’en Figueres (a more natural route leading to the Cal Mistaire spring). Read about holidays in the mountains of Catalonia and visiting the Montserrat monastery in this
3
Park Les Ribes del Ter and Devesa or Parque de les Ribes del Ter y Devesa– beautiful city parks located in the valley of the Ter River.
You can walk or ride bicycles in the park 4
Huertas de Santa Eugenia or Huertas de Santa Eugènia- an incredibly beautiful and interesting route laid through the gardening lands of the old town of Santa Eugenia de Ter (now a suburb of Girona). There are stables nearby, so this route is perfect for lovers of horse riding.
In general, active tourism is incredibly developed in Girona. Here you can rent bicycles (including mountain bikes), ride a kayak along the rivers, and even take a hot air balloon flight over the city. 
Dalí House Museum, Figueres
Figueres is a small resort town in Catalonia, but it has gained worldwide fame thanks to Salvador Dali. Fans of his work from all over the world come here to come into contact with the talent of a genius at least for a moment.
The main attraction of the city is the Salvador Dali Theater-Museum. I wonder what it is here, under this building, that the body of the master rests. It was this place that was noted in his will. This is probably no coincidence, because it was in the building of the old theater, which was later reconstructed, that the first exhibition of the 14-year-old Dali was held. 
The entire space inside the building is divided into 3 large sections:
- the museum itself,
- Tower of Gala (Galatea),
- an exhibition hall with jewelry made according to the master’s sketches (for example, you can look at a bunch of grapes, the berries of which are made in the form of skulls).
Surrealism and theatricality are present in every corner of the building, even on the roof where the large eggs are installed. Under the dome of the museum there is a famous painting - “Nude Gala Looking at the Sea” (the most interesting thing is that if you move 20 meters away from it, a portrait of Abraham Lincoln will appear in front of the gases). 
In the Mae West Hall there is a portrait of the famous actress made from interior items, and the walls in the Treasure Hall are upholstered in red velvet. It feels like you are in a jewelry box.
Illusion room “The Face of Mae West” There is a shop in the theater-museum. Here you can buy various souvenirs:
- books (including for children);
- calendars;
- board games (for example, puzzles, when assembled you can see one of Dali’s masterpieces);
- posters;
- T-shirts (with specific prints, of course);
- accessories (bags, glasses, umbrellas, phone cases, again with prints based on the master’s creations);
- home decor items (for example, a stand in the form of a melted clock, as in the famous painting);
- dishes (for example, a cup with the image of Dali’s famous mustache);
- jewelry (naturally, made according to the master’s sketches).
The most interesting thing is that in this store you can order a photo print of any Dali painting on any product. The prices are quite reasonable (photo printing on a mug costs about 10 euros).
To book tickets, you can use the official website of the museum. Be sure to keep an eye on the date and time of your visit (they are clearly indicated when booking). At other times, it will be impossible to visit the theater with this ticket. You cannot book a ticket through the website for a night visit.
Buying tickets:
The museum is located at Gala Salvador Dalí Square, 5 (it is easy to find thanks to numerous signs). The easiest way to get there is:
- by train from Barcelona (1.5 hours);
- by train or bus number 602 from the airport;
- by train from Costa Brava (but it is better to change at Massanet Massanes for a train that goes to the city of Portbou).
From Girona to Figueres you can travel by train (15-20 minutes) or by car. Trains from Girona run regularly.
Train operating hours depending on the season:
|
01.03-30.06 |
9.30-18.00 (ticket office closes at 17.15) |
| 01.07-30.09 | 9:00-20:00 (ticket office closes at 19:15) |
| 1.10-30.10 | 9:30-18:00 (ticket office closes at 17:15) |
| 1.1 -28.02 | 10:30-18:00 (ticket office closes at 17:15) |
If you are traveling by car, look at the information about colorful eco-tourism routes around the towns of the province.
Shopping in Girona
Girona is a great city for. On almost all streets, especially in Plaza Catalunya, Plaza Independence, and Rambla, there are large shops and shopping centers where you can buy everything from souvenirs to jewelry.
The same shopping street takes on the appearance of a mysterious dungeon at night. 
Rambla street 
There are certain periods when stores have sales and various discounts.
|
Seasonal sales |
What to buy |
| January-February, winter sales | It is best to buy clothes, especially from the autumn-winter collections, there are very large discounts on them, reaching up to 70% |
| March-April, Easter sale | The best time to buy groceries. You can buy traditional Spanish Easter cakes |
| April-June, street sales of clothing stores | Great time to update your wardrobe. Last year's collections are on sale at very low prices |
| May, Flower Festival | The best time to buy various plants, as well as designer interior items |
| August, summer sale | It is best to buy clothes, especially from the spring-summer collections, there are very large discounts on them, reaching up to 70% |
| October, Festival of St. Narcissus | Great time to buy souvenirs. |
| December, Christmas sales | Discounts in all stores in the city up to 60-70% |
In addition to shops, Girona has a huge number of markets that operate both constantly and open during the Easter and Christmas holidays. Among them are:
Shops in Girona open late, at 10:00. On Monday, many establishments are closed until 13:30. Lunch break is traditionally from 13:30 to 16:30. Shops usually close at 20:30.
Cuisine of Girona
As throughout Spain, there is a real cult of food in Girona. There are a large number of restaurants, cafes, bars, including those noted in the Michelin guide. There are a huge number of options, everyone can find a restaurant to their taste:
1
Cafeterias. Pay attention to the cafe chain “1900”. There is an excellent selection of confectionery products, including the famous Girona macaroons, as well as coffee, tea, and natural juices. There are free Wi-Fi hotspots in the cafeterias.
2
Traditional restaurants. You can visit such establishments as “Bronsoms”, “Ca l’ Ivan”, “Ca la Pilar” and others, where the client will be offered to try dishes of both national and pan-European cuisine.
3
Catalan restaurants. It is worth paying attention to such restaurants as “Calderers”, “El Capritxo”, located on Independence Square and on Sant Feliu Square, respectively. Here you can try local cuisine prepared with seasonal ingredients. 
4
Creative cuisine restaurants. Girona is famous for such establishments. Visit the Divinum restaurant in the very center of the Old Town, it has the best wine list and menu (more than 50 signature dishes made from local products).
5
Basque restaurants. Girona is characterized by a mixture of gastronomic styles. Visit the Txalaka restaurant and enjoy the taste of traditional Catalan dishes (by the way, Basque tapos are the cheapest in Girona, the price per serving starts from 2 euros).
Remember that lunch hours in Girona last from 13.30 to 15.00, and dinner in restaurants is usually from 20.30 to 22.00.
El Celler de can Roca is considered the best restaurant in Girona. It has a Michelin star. It is located at: C/de Can Sunyer, 48.
In Girona, be sure to try the following Spanish and Catalan dishes:
- botifarra (butifarra) - meat sausages with spices, minced in a special way;
- jamon (jamon);
- canelones - pasta tubes stuffed with meat and sprinkled with cheese, and sprinkled with Bechamel sauce;
- escudella (escudella) - pasta with seafood;
- paella (paella);
- allioli (allioli) – homemade garlic mayonnaise;
- сhurros (churros) – a sweet dessert made from dough;
- crema catalana - Catalan cream;
- flan – egg and milk soufflé with caramel sauce.
Interestingly, very close to Girona is the French port city of Lecat. Tourists come here for fresh mussels, oysters and other marine exotics, the cost of which does not exceed 3 euros per kilogram. 
You can get to Lecat by car; there are no border controls in these places, but you should still take your documents with you.
Conclusion
Some people believe that one or two days are enough to visit Girona (Girona takes up very little space on the map of Spain, it is a very small corner of Catalonia), but this is far from true. If you want to absorb the spirit of a real Catalan city, stay here longer. Very soon it will become clear that Girona is a real box of surprises.