A Day in Girona: What to See, Eat, and Experience

Girona, tucked away in Catalonia, is a city of medieval walls, colourful riverside houses, and cinematic beauty (you might recognise it from Game of Thrones). With one day, you can explore its history, taste its cuisine, and enjoy the relaxed pace of this small but vibrant city.

Morning: The Cathedral and Old Quarter

Start your day with coffee and a pastry in one of the cafés on Plaça de la Independència, a lively square framed by neoclassical arcades.

Then head straight to the Cathedral of Girona with its record-breaking Gothic nave. Climb the grand staircase leading up to its entrance and enjoy views over the rooftops. Fans of Game of Thrones may recognise this setting as the “Great Sept of Baelor.”

From here, wander through the Call, Girona’s old Jewish Quarter. Its narrow, winding streets are among the best-preserved in Europe, filled with history and mystery. Don’t miss the Museum of Jewish History housed in a former synagogue.

Late Morning: City Walls and Colourful Views

Next, take a walk along the Passeig de la Muralla, Girona’s medieval city walls. The path offers some of the best panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills.

Back down in the centre, cross the iconic Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles) built by Gustave Eiffel’s company before the Eiffel Tower. From here, you’ll get the postcard-perfect view of Girona’s colourful houses lining the Onyar River.

Lunch: Catalan Specialities

For lunch, Girona offers everything from Michelin-starred dining to casual tapas bars. Specialities to try include:

  • Xuixo – a sugar-dusted pastry filled with custard, originally from Girona.

  • Escudella i carn d’olla – a hearty Catalan stew.

  • Seasonal calçots (grilled spring onions) with romesco sauce if you’re visiting in winter.

For a true gourmet experience, Girona is home to El Celler de Can Roca, consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants — though you’ll need to book months in advance.

Afternoon: Museums or River Strolls

After lunch, you could:

  • Visit the Arab Baths of Girona, a 12th-century bathhouse inspired by Roman and Moorish traditions.

  • Explore the Girona Art Museum, located next to the cathedral, which traces Catalan art through the centuries.

  • Or simply stroll along the riverbanks and enjoy Girona’s unique blend of old and new.


Evening: Sunset and a Relaxed Stroll

As the day cools, climb back to the city walls or find a terrace near the Onyar River for a sunset drink. Girona has a more relaxed nightlife compared to Barcelona, but its cafés and wine bars create a perfect atmosphere to unwind.

Dinner & Nightlife

For dinner, enjoy Catalan dishes such as:

  • Botifarra amb mongetes – grilled sausage with beans.

  • Suquet de peix – Catalan fish stew.

  • Tapas and pintxos in the old town.

If you’d like a lively night, head to the bars near Plaça de la Independència or Plaça del Vi. Otherwise, a slow paseo through the lantern-lit Call makes for a magical end to the day.

Practical Tips for Your Day

  • Use the official Girona Tourism website for maps and current events.

  • Many attractions, including the Cathedral, close for siesta hours — check times before you go.

  • The city is very walkable, but wear comfortable shoes for cobblestones and stairs.

  • Girona is just 40 minutes from Barcelona by high-speed train — making it an ideal day trip.


Final Thoughts

Girona may be compact, but it offers an incredible mix of medieval atmosphere, Catalan cuisine, and cinematic charm. Whether you’re walking its walls, exploring its Jewish Quarter, or simply enjoying a pastry by the river, one day here will leave you enchanted and wanting more.