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If you have done the things to do in Spain, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Girona.
Nestled between the tranquil banks of the Onyar River and the rugged mountains of Catalonia, lies the enchanting city of Girona – a veritable treasure trove of history, culture and gastronomy.
Whether you’re a die-hard foodie, an avid history buff, or simply searching for a picturesque getaway, Girona promises to leave you spellbound with its stunning architecture, bustling markets, and vibrant social scene.
So join us on a journey of discovery as we uncover the best things to see and do in this must-visit destination.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Girona:
1. Girona Cathedral
Girona Cathedral, officially known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona, is a Roman Catholic church located in the city center of Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
What to see or do: Visitors can admire the stunning Gothic architecture of the cathedral, including its nave, cloister, and chapels.
The cathedral also houses an impressive collection of religious artworks and artifacts, such as tapestries, sculptures, and gold and silver pieces.
Don’t miss: The Tapestry Museum, located in the cathedral’s cloister.
The museum boasts a collection of 11th-century tapestries known as the Tapestry of Creation, which depicts the biblical account of the creation of the world in impressive detail.
Insider travel tips: Visit the cathedral during one of the guided tours offered by knowledgeable guides. The tours provide in-depth explanations of the cathedral’s history, architecture, and art collection.
Also, make sure to climb the cathedral’s steps to reach the top of the bell tower, which offers breathtaking views of the city and surrounding landscape.
2. Arab Baths
The Arab Baths are a historical landmark in Girona, Spain that date back to the 12th century.
They were built by Moors in the Romanesque style, and are one of the few remaining examples of Islamic architecture in the region.
What to see or do: Visit the various rooms within the Arab Baths, including the warm bath, hot bath, and cold bath, which follows the traditional Moorish bathing routine.
Admire the architecture, including the horseshoe arches and domed ceiling of the cupola.
Don’t miss: The gardens surrounding the baths, which offer a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.
See the remains of the Roman wall nearby, which once served to protect the city and offer a glimpse into its history.
Insider travel tips:
3. Jewish Quarter
The Jewish Quarter is a historic neighborhood located in the city of Girona, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the narrow streets to admire the well-preserved medieval architecture. Visit the Museum of Jewish History to learn about the rich history of the Jews in Girona.
Don’t miss: The Call, a labyrinthine network of medieval streets that is home to some of the best-preserved Jewish architecture in Europe. The Arab Baths, located not far from the Jewish Quarter, are also worth a visit.
Insider travel tips: Wear comfortable shoes as the streets are cobbled and uneven.
Many of the historic buildings have been converted into boutique shops and cafes, so be sure to stop for a coffee or a bite to eat.
The Jewish Quarter can get quite crowded during peak tourist season, so consider visiting in the off-season for a more peaceful experience.
4. Sant Pere de Galligants
A Romanesque-style abbey in Girona, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore the abbey’s architectural elements, such as the ornate portal and the cloister. Admire the beautiful Romanesque sculptures on display, including a statue of Saint Peter.
Don’t miss: The abbey’s museum, which showcases a collection of pre-Romanesque artwork, including the Beatus manuscripts.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and have the abbey nearly to yourself. Take a stroll through the beautiful gardens surrounding the abbey for some peaceful moments.
Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as there is a lot of walking involved.
5. Girona City Walls
The Girona City Walls are a set of medieval fortifications that surround the historic town of Girona in Catalonia, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a walk along the Girona City Walls to see stunning views of the town and surrounding countryside. The walls are well-preserved and offer a unique perspective on the history of Girona.
Don’t miss: The Torre de Gironella, one of the best-preserved towers of the city walls, offers breathtaking views of the town below and the surrounding Pyrenees mountains.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the Girona City Walls is on a clear day, when the views are most spectacular. Wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and steep inclines along the wall.
6. Eiffel Bridge
A pedestrian bridge across the Onyar River in Girona, Spain, designed by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll across the bridge and enjoy the picturesque views of the colorful houses on the riverbanks and the city’s landmarks such as the Girona Cathedral.
Don’t miss: The stunning panoramic views of the city that can be seen from the bridge.
Insider travel tips: Visit the bridge at night when it is beautifully lit up.
Also, don’t forget to look down at the metallic plaques on the surface of the bridge, which were used to imprint the names of the companies that donated metal to build it.
7. Church of Sant Feliu
Church of Sant Feliu is a historic Romanesque-Gothic church located in the heart of Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
What to see or do: The church’s most striking feature is its distinctive tower, which can be seen from almost any point in the city. The interior of the church is decorated with beautiful frescoes and houses several chapels, altarpieces, and religious statues.
Visitors can also explore the crypt, which dates back to the 10th century and features an impressive collection of sarcophagi.
Don’t miss: The high-altarpiece, which was created by famous artist Pere Mates in the 14th century, is a must-see. It depicts the life and miracles of Saint Felix, the church’s patron saint.
Also, take a stroll through the church’s cloisters, which offer a quiet and peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Insider travel tips: It’s worth taking a guided tour to learn more about the history and significance of the church.
The tower affords stunning views of Girona and the surrounding countryside, but be aware that there are many steps to climb.
Visitors should also check the opening times as the church may be closed for services and events.
8. Onyar River
A picturesque river that runs through the historic city of Girona, Spain.
What to see or do: Take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Onyar River and admire the colorful buildings that line its shores. Cross one of the several bridges that span the river for different perspectives and photo opportunities.
Enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants with riverside views.
Don’t miss: The iconic houses on the river, especially the brightly painted houses known as the “Hanging Houses” that provide a stunning and picturesque backdrop.
Insider travel tips: Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds. Take a boat tour for a unique perspective of the city and river.
Try the local specialty dish, “arros a la gironina,” a rice dish with regional flavors.
9. Plaça de la Independència
Plaça de la Independència is a beautiful square located in Girona, Spain.
What to see or do: The square is surrounded by colorful buildings and historic sites, providing visitors with plenty of photo opportunities. There are also many shops, restaurants, and cafes to explore in the area.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Plaça de la Independència is the fountain in the center of the square. It’s a popular spot for taking snapshots and enjoying the atmosphere of the area.
Insider travel tips: Visit the square early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds and admire the lovely views of the area.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes, as the streets in this historic area of Girona can be quite uneven.
10. Cinema Museum
Cinema Museum located in Girona, Catalonia, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore the exhibition halls showcasing cinema-related objects such as cameras, projectors, and costumes. Watch classic films in the museum’s cinema room.
Don’t miss: The interactive displays that allow visitors to experiment with different film techniques and special effects.
Insider travel tips: Buy tickets online in advance to skip the queues. The museum is closed on Mondays.
Don’t forget to visit the museum shop which sells unique cinema-themed souvenirs.
11. Museum of Jewish History
The Museum of Jewish History in Girona is a cultural institution that displays the heritage of the Jewish community in Catalonia.
What to see or do: The museum showcases a collection of objects related to the life and activities of the Jewish community in Girona during the medieval period.
Visitors can explore the different galleries that display objects related to Jewish history, religion, and traditions.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is the exhibition of the original gravestones from the Jewish Cemetery in Montjuic, which date back to the 10th century.
Another must-see exhibit is the Jewish ritual baths, which are well-preserved and provide a glimpse into the daily lives of the Jewish population.
Insider travel tips: – Visiting the museum during weekdays will offer a more personalized and less crowded experience compared to weekends.
12. Monastery of Sant Pere de Rodes
A monastery located in the mountains of Cap de Creus Natural Park in Catalonia, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore the Romanesque architecture of the monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea from its vantage point.
Don’t miss: The 11th-century cloister and the church with its impressive bell tower.
Insider travel tips: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and bring comfortable shoes as the monastery requires climbing uphill. Go during the summer months to enjoy outdoor concerts held in the monastery.
13. BÒLIT Centre d’Art Contemporani
BÒLIT Centre d’Art Contemporani is a modern and innovative contemporary art center in Girona, Spain.
What to see or do: Explore modern exhibitions featuring local and international contemporary artists, attend art workshops, or participate in public art events.
Don’t miss: The rooftop terrace offering panoramic views of the city and the chance to contemplate thought-provoking contemporary art exhibitions that inspire a deeper understanding of the arts.
Insider travel tips: Visit during the summer months when the center often collaborates with Girona’s renowned Temps de Flors floral festival, featuring installations and exhibits showcasing flowers and contemporary art.
For a unique experience, join a guided tour, which is offered in several languages and provides an in-depth understanding of the center’s collections.
14. Girona Art Museum
Girona Art Museum is a popular art museum located in the city of Girona, Spain. The museum holds a vast collection of artworks from the Romanesque and Gothic periods.
What to see or do: Explore the extensive collection of art pieces that are categorized into different themes, including Gothic wooden sculptures, Romanesque frescoes, and contemporary art.
Get a glimpse of some of the most notable artworks from the region, including works by Picasso, Dalí, and Miró.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning collection of Romanesque murals, considered some of the best preserved in Europe. Also, make sure to see the Gothic altarpieces, which are amongst the museum’s most significant pieces.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers a free audio guide that can help you discover the art’s history and context. Make sure to reserve in advance to avoid waiting in long queues.
Plan to spend around two hours in the museum to get a comprehensive experience.