Medieval city walls, spellbinding Romanesque monasteries, ancient Arab baths, and a magnificent Gothic cathedral all await you in the captivating Catalan gem of Girona!

Within its historic Jewish Quarter, tradition and history envelop the narrow, cobbled streets that also starred in Game of Thrones. This is but an enticing preview of the myriad things to do in Girona!

For adventure enthusiasts, the nearby Costa Brava offers thrilling water sports on the crystal-clear Mediterranean, while the majestic Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park and the rolling Catalan hills provide exhilarating hikes and canyoning in dramatic gorges.

Intrigued? The enchanting journey through Girona’s wonders has only just begun!

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Girona tours

1 – Marvel at the glorious Girona Cathedral, a stunning example of Catalan gothic architecture

Girona Cathedral, Girona

Hop on one of the fascinating walking tours of Girona, and stop to admire the spectacular Girona Cathedral. Look up at the detailed 14th century ‘Door of the Apostles’ facing the Cathedral Square and be amazed by the life-sized sculptures of the twelve apostles!

The interior of Girona Cathedral feels incredibly spacious due to the fact that it has one of the widest Gothic naves in the world at 23 meters! Once inside the Cathedral look out for the well-preserved Romanesque Tapestry of Creation created in the 11th century, depicting detailed scenes from the life of Adam and Eve.

Look out for the carved stoned lion statue near the cloister that has been coined the emblematic ‘Lioness of Girona.’ After ambling around the double layered cloister full of pointed archways and decorated columns, don’t forget to climb up the bell tower for some awesome panoramic views over the city!

walking tours in Girona

2 – Encounter top filming locations on the Game of Thrones tour

Game of Thrones filming locations tours

Many of the streets and squares of Girona were used to create the fictional towns of King’s Landing and Braavos! Imagine the bustling Port Market of Braavos laden with stalls and vendors right outside Girona’s Arab baths in the Rei Ferran el Catòlic Street.

Picture Cersei Lannister’s walk of atonement on the grandiose steps of Girona Cathedral or imagine the desperate Arya Stark begging around the square of the Plaça dels Jurats. This square was also used during Season 6 where there is an outdoor theatrical show about the life of the Lannister family.

Or dare to walk over the old Stone Bridge where Arya Stark confronted the Waif! Embarking on a Game of Thrones specific tour will bring back all your favorite memories of the series with the help of an entertaining guide who will share insiders knowledge about the film sets and plenty of fun trivia.

Game of Thrones tours in Girona

3 – Stroll across the emblematic Eiffel Bridge

Eiffel Bridge, Girona

One of the best things to do in Girona has to be crossing over the iconic pedestrian bridge to take photographs of the beautiful colored houses that flank the banks of the Onyar River!

The Eiffel bridge is a bright red cast iron bridge built by Eiffel’s company in 1876 even before the construction of the Eiffel tower! The bridge is laden with elegant Art Nouveau floral motifs, lattice-style railings and decorative elements.

The bright yellow, orange and red houses of the Onyar that can be admired from the Eiffel bridge have been captured and immortalized by many artists and photographers who continue to be mesmerized by their charm.

4 – Cruise along the coastline on a scenic boat tour

boat tours from Girona

Take a boat trip along the Costa Brava to the Cap de Creus headland to discover the rugged granite cliffs and hidden rocky inlets. Embrace the refreshing maritime breeze and look out on the horizon for dolphins or seabirds crying overhead. Popular birds include graceful Cory’s Shearwaters that swoop down for fish or Mediterranean Gulls with distinctive black heads.

During a boat excursion you can pass by the small fishing village of Port Lligat where the legendary Salvador Dalí used to live! The calm waters and rocky outcrops of Port Lligat feature in some of Dalí’s artwork such as the painting, ‘The Madonna of Port Lligat.’

Further south of Port Lligat, enter into the bay of Cadaqués and admire the stunning town full of white washed houses with blue shutters and winding narrow streets. Cadaqués is often coined as the most beautiful town in Catalunya and one can understand why with the small fishing boats gently bobbing on the buoys and the majestic white church of Sant Maria dominating over the roof terraces.

boat tours from Girona

5 – Explore the 12th century Moorish baths, the Banys Àrabs

Banys Àrabs, Girona

The impressive Banys Àrabs are nestled right next the Church of Sant Feliu and the original city walls, in the heart of Girona.

Amazingly the baths survived a siege of French troops led by Philip III during the 13th century and then during the 17th century the baths were then converted into part of a Capuchin monastery!

Enter the baths complex to explore the different features such as the frigidarium (cold room), tepidarium (warm room), caldarium (hot room) and apodyterium (changing room). In particular the star-shaped skylight in the central dome of the Caldarium offers a dazzling display of natural sunlight that dances off the walls.

6 – Make your way through the narrow winding streets of the historic Jewish quarter ‘El Call’

El Call, Girona

During the medieval period, the Jewish quarter of Girona thrived and originally there were three different synagogues! Many Jewish families lived around the Square of the Apostles until the Carrer de la Força.

However during the 15th century the Jewish community faced persecutions under the Spanish Inquisition. Many of the Jews that lived in the Jewish quarter were forced to convert to Christianity or were expelled from the country. Learn more about the practices of the Jewish community at the former main synagogue which is now a museum and cultural center.

Explore further regarding Jewish religious customs by exploring a medieval mikveh (a Jewish ritual bath!) Those super interested in Jewish history, can also take a tour to the charming town of Besalú with its famous medieval Jewish quarter.

Jewish Quarter tours in Girona

7 – Visit the Romanesque style Benedictine Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants

Benedictine Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants, Girona

The name of the monastery derives from the stream of Galligants that gently flows past the monastery. Admire the intricately carved columns in the Romanesque style cloister. The capitals are engraved with a fascinating mix of animals, mythical creatures, vegetal motifs and Biblical scenes!

Today the Monastery that dates back to the 12th century is home to the Museum of Archeology. The archeology museum is filled with Roman relics, Medieval religious objects and manuscripts as well as detailed information regarding the archeological excavations of Empúries, a nearby ancient Greek settlement.

It is important to note that the monastery was also used for filming Game of Thrones, in particular the scenes in the Old town Antigua library.

8 – Explore underwater wonders with scuba diving in Girona

scuba diving in Girona

Learn how to dive for the first time and master the use of the scuba gear in the calm crystal waters near the coast of Girona! Scuba diving excursions take place in the charming coastal town of Tossa de Mar, famous for its historic fortified Medieval village and gorgeous sandy beaches.

Get straight into the warm Mediterranean waters and spot some starfish nestled on the sandy sea bed and beautiful spiky sea urchins. Common fish include bream, sea bass, damselfish and wrasses. Make sure to keep an eye out for the odd octopus lurking in underwater rocks or graceful seahorses playing amongst the sea grasses.

Other popular diving sites include Palamos which is at the northern end of a large bay lined with sandy beaches. The area around Palamos has various underwater caves and tunnel systems which are popular amongst experienced and professional divers.

Alternatively there are also diving trips available in Cala Gogo, a beautifully secluded cove surrounded by scented pine forests and bright blue waters.

scuba diving in Girona

9 – Soar up in the sky in a hot air balloon ride

hot air balloon rides in Girona

Looking down over Catalonia’s ancient dormant volcanoes, the Volcanoes of la Garrotxa has to be one of the most exciting and memorable things to do in Girona!

Pass over the Santa Margarida volcano and spot the hermitage in the dormant crater! Or look out over the horizon and try to glimpse the Pyrenees mountains in the distance! Marvel at the Croscat Volcano, estimated to have formed around 11,000 years ago it is deemed to be one of the youngest volcano cones on the Iberian peninsula!

Alternatively take a balloon ride over the area of the Alt Empordà and the Costa Brava. Obtain some astonishing birds eye views of the towns of Peralada, Navata and Fortià and glide over the stunning Bay of Roses.

Or why not head further inland and explore the aerial views of the region of La Cerdanya, straddling the border between Spain and France. Admire the rocky peaks and green valleys, lakes and fertile agricultural plains.

hot air balloon rides in Girona

10 – Learn about tales and secrets of Girona at the History Museum

History Museum, Girona

Located in an 18th century Capuchin monastery, visitors can still catch some remnants from the monastic days such as a cemetery, cloister and cistern. Take a peak into the historic cistern, the oldest part of the building with huge stone vaults and tall columns that used to store rainwater for the monks!

Learn about the story of Girona from the Roman settlers in the 1st century BC up until the modern day. Understand more about what happened in Girona during the Napoleonic Wars, the Spanish Civil War or under the regime of Franco.

Visitors can also grasp more about Catalan traditions such as popular dances such as the ‘sardana’ (a circular group dance) or typical musical instruments like the catalan shawn (an oboe like instrument).

11 – Discover Catalan gourmet delights on a food tour

food tours in Girona

Embark on a walking tour that combines some food tasting such as the typical xuixo, a mouthwatering fried cake filled with sweet Catalan creme. The fried exterior is of course sprinkled with sugar! It is claimed that this typical cake was first created around 1918.

Another typical delicacy to try on walking tour is the sweet alcoholic ratafia, a brandy like drink infused with spices and citrus fruit!

Or why not opt for a fun ’11 tastings of Girona’ tour, a sight seeing excursion packed full of tapas tastings to understand the Catalonian traditional flavors and culinary customs! Other tours take small groups round the Girona market! Feast on tender jamon iberico, gourmet ice cream and of course, a glass of locally produced sparkling Cava!

food tours in Girona

12 – Get your heart pounding with some epic bungee jumping

bungee jumping tours in Girona

Jump from the highest Bungee jump in the whole of Spain, a whopping 70 meter high crane in Lloret de Mar! Definitely top on the list of things to do in Girona for adrenaline high adventure seekers!

You can also enjoy a couples bungee jumping experience and take the jump with your partner or friend. Why not combine your bungee jumping thrill with some combined activities such as a 50 meter slingshot or a karting race?

From the top of the bungee and whilst you are flying through the air, admire the stunning views of the Mediterranean below and the endless beaches of the Costa Brava!

bungee jumping in Girona

13 – Embrace surrealism at the famous Dalí Museum

Dalí Museum, Girona

Take a day trip to the town of Figueres just a 40 minute drive north of Girona to visit the quirky and eccentric Dalí museum. The museum is housed in an old municipal theatre with oversized surreal eggs that adorn the rooftop, a symbol of creation and fertility!

Enter into the world famous ‘Mae West room,’ a tribute to Hollywood and popular culture. Queue up to admire the optical illusion where the pieces of furniture come together to recreate the actresses face! The sensuous sofa becoming the red iconic lips!

Make sure to spend time reflecting on Dali’s most famous painting, ‘The Persistence of Memory’ from 1931 where clocks appear to slowly melt in a dreamlike desert landscape.

Many people are unaware that Dalí himself is actually buried in the basement of the museum!

Dalí Museum tours from Girona

14 – Perform exciting maneuvers on a jet ski tour

jet ski tours in Girona

Power over to the Medes Islands on a jet ski tour! The Medes Islands are less than 2 kilometers offshore so the perfect distance to cover on the back of a jet ski!

Admire the natural beauty of the seven islets from the water, a haven for wildlife and marine ecosystems due to the fact that they have been part of a protected nature Reserve since 1983!

Or why not speed around the coastline passing by the towns and beaches of Lloret de Mar, Blanes and Tossa? During the summer jet skiing is an excellent water sport for cooling down in the refreshing sea water with the exhilarating ocean breeze!

jet ski tours in Girona

15 – Revere ancient relics at the Church of St. Felix

Church of St. Felix, Girona

This intriguing Church with a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic style architecture is named after Saint Felix of Girona who was martyred in 304 A.D. It can be easily identified from a distance due to the slender and elegant gothic style spire with 5 bells.

Inside the Church of St. Felix visitors can take a look at the eight Roman and early Christian sarcophagi discovered during archaeological excavations inside and around the church!

Inside the church visitors can also admire the Gothic tomb of Narcissus of Girona, the first recorded bishop of Girona! Narcissus is actually the patron saint of the city, so a highly venerated historical figure.

16 – Immerse yourself in nature for some horse riding

horse riding in Girona

Go trotting or gently pass through the fertile valley of the Vall d’en Bas on horseback. Ride through some of the picturesque local villages such as El Mallol, Sant Privat or Puigpardines.

The Vall d’en Bas has plenty of exciting forest and meadow trails. Pass by the lush banks of the bubbling Fluvia river and soak up the natural tranquility!

Alternatively opt for a horse trek around the Pla de Martís, a large agricultural plain near the river Rec D’Espolla. Those looking for a longer horse riding excursion can opt for a 5 hour trip from Serinya to Besalú.

A long horse riding trip definitely helps to strengthen core muscles and improve balance and co-ordination skills. Master your riding technique with the help of a professional guide during the route.

horse riding in Girona

17 – Explore the delights of the dazzling Costa Brava

Costa Brava tours from Girona

The Costa Brava is littered with charming little village waiting to be discovered for example Peratallada, Pals, Begur and Calella de Palafrugell.

Walk around the paved Medieval streets of Peratallada full of stone houses, archways, churches and decorative flower plots! Or get to know the old town of Begur overlooked by a medieval castle and furnished with 16th century defensive towers to protect the residents from pirate attacks!

One of the essential places to see in the Costa Brava is definitely the charming Lloret de Mar. Enjoy the coastal panorama from the stunning Santa Clotilde Botanical Gardens or explore the medieval fortress of Sant Joan.

LLoret de Mar also has a vibrant nightlife scene especially during the summer when tourists and locals come off the beach and hit the outdoor bar terraces for some refreshing sangria.

The beautiful Costa Brava is also the perfect location to just relax and enjoy the sun and sea for example on a chilled out luxury catamaran cruise with a tasty barbecue. Sit back and enjoy a couple of beers with friends and family while sailing along and topping up the tan.

Costa Brava tours from Girona

18 – Fly high over some hidden gems in a helicopter tour

helicopter tours in Girona

Get a birds eye view of the beautiful area surrounding Girona with a professional expert pilot! Helicopter tours in Girona often start around the small town and coastal resort of L’Estartit. From the elevated unique position of a helicopter you can get a great panorama of the boats docked in the harbor and the rocky Medes Islands.

From a helicopter tour around the area you can soar above the robust and dominating castle of Montgrí before heading North to soar over the impressive archeological site of Empúries.

There is also the option to select some private airplane tours and learn the tricks of piloting a small plane under the guidance of an instructor. Feel the thrill of take off and landing as you glide over the Costa Brava!

helicopter tours in Girona

19 – Splash around in the crystal clears waters during a kayaking excursion

kayaking tours in Girona

Top kayaking sites include Tossa del Mar and the Playa de Aro due to the nearby impressive rocky cliffs and hidden caves. Many of the kayaking tours also include the chance for some snorkeling. Take a break from paddling and plunge into the refreshing sea to discover hidden schools of fish or crabs, sea snails and lobsters hiding in the rocks!

Further south in Blanes, visitors can even try kayaking in a transparent bottomed boat so you can easily see all the underwater activity beneath you as you paddle along!

Those who are fans of birdwatching will love the Ornithological kayaking route in San Pedro Pescador where participants kayak along the Fluvià river to the beautiful Aiguamolls Reserve. The Aiguamolls reserve is a huge natural park full of wetlands and interesting wildlife such as herons, egrets, cranes and cormorants.

kayaking in Girona

20 – Take a stroll around the urban Devesa Park, known as ‘the green lung of Girona’

Devesa Park, Girona

Walk along the long rows of plane trees and gaze up at the 2,500 one hundred year old trees that fill this park space! There are also lots of very tall banana trees that create a pleasantly shaded haven during the summer!

Devesa park has plenty of well-maintained avenues and cycling paths. There is also a kids playground, a picnic area, public swimming pool and large attractive fountains.

There are also several sculptures such as the Monument dedicated to Juli Garreta, a famous composer of traditional music sardanes. There is also a monument with a female sculpture in memory of the famous sculptor Fidel Aguilar who tragically died at a young age.

21 – Try out indoor skydiving in a wind tunnel

indoor skydiving in Girona

Experience the sensation of skydiving without the hassle and terror of having to jump out of a plane! Have a go on a unique free fall simulator which provides the same kick as traditional outdoor skydiving.

Put on a helmet, goggles and jumpsuit for some excellent snapshots before and during the action when you are suspended in the air!

Undergo free falling in a completely safe and controlled environment which can be enjoyed all year round, independent of local weather conditions! The Indoor skydiving center is based in Empuriabrava, a 55 minutes drive north of Girona.

indoor skydiving in Girona

22 – Set eyes on 40 volcanic cones at the Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park

Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park day trips from Girona

Plan a day trip to the spectacular Garrotxa park where green beech forests grow on the former lava flows. Hike up the Santa Margarida volcano, the volcano with the mysterious hermitage nestled right in the crater. The park also has some gorgeous cascading waterfalls that add to the Parks magical natural ambiance.

The park is a superb location for hot air balloon rides as you can peer inside the craters from above, some which has been filled with water creating scenic ponds! It is also possible to experience the Garrotxa park during entertaining guided segway tours! Segway tours are an eco-friendly and family fun activity where you can cover plenty of ground with less physical exertion!

Garrotxa Volcanic Natural Park tours from Girona

23 – Get adventurous with some breathtaking canyoning

canyoning tours in Girona

For those of you who are new to canyoning, this fun outdoor activity includes hiking, climbing, swimming and rope work to navigate around steep canyons, rocky cliffs and often waterfalls!

20 minutes away from Girona by car, visitors can find the La Riera d’Osor Gorge. Take a dip in the crystal clear waters of the natural pool created by the Riera d’Osor river and scramble over the rocky terrain using fun abseils led by a trained guide.

Other nearby gorges just one hour North from Girona include the Gorges of Albanya where you can enjoy refreshing lagoons surrounded by overhead chestnut forests and holm oak groves! Alternatively head slightly further afield to the municipality of Queralbs to experience the Freser ravine!

canyoning in Girona

24 – Uncover 500 years of cinematic history at the Girona Cinema Museum

Girona Cinema Museum, Girona

Make a trip to the Cinema Museum which houses the collection of the famous Catalan director Tomàs Mallol, with 20,000 cinema-related items!

Browse through the early photography and lighting gadgets and large selection of pre cinematographic objects. There are plenty of vintage cameras, projectors, props and film posters to delight passionate cinephiles!

Learn more about the evolution of cinema from Chinese shadow puppet theaters to the Lumiėre brothers silent films in this intimate and quirky museum!

Cinema Museum tickets

25 – Walk along the impressive 9th century Muralles de Girona

Muralles de Girona, Girona

Taking in the mesmerizing vistas of the rooftops and church spires from the city walls has to be one of the most unforgettable things to do in Girona! Along the walls visitors can stumble across different defensive towers such as the Clock Tower or the Gironella Tower. The walls are made up of a mixture of different materials such as local granite, limestone, bricks, mortar and compacted earth.

The elevated position of these Medieval walls makes a great location to watch the sunset! The walls also offer a good view of the surrounding countryside.

The city walls are steeped in legends for example according to folklore, a ghostly white noblewoman known as the ‘Dama blanca’ can be spotted wandering the walls at night looking for her lost lover.

26 – Improve your balance with stand-up paddleboarding

stand-up paddleboarding tours from Girona

Get out on the sea and enjoy gliding over the tranquil waters at S’Agaró bay. This bay is a 40 minutes drive away from Girona and is well sheltered with a fine white sandy beach.

Other popular paddle sports include the beach of L’Estartit which is a great destination for spotting some rich marine life with the beautiful views of the Medes islands on the horizon. If you are a fan of geology opt for a paddle boarding tour round the Roca Foradada on the edge of the Montgrí Nature Park. where you can enter into some sea caves and get up close to the impressive rock formations.

Or why not try something unusual such as yoga on a paddle board? Connect with your body and the board in the waters just off Fenals beach in an energizing yoga session! Embrace the tranquillity of the flat ocean that reflects the morning light and the stunning surrounding coastline!

stand-up paddle in Girona

27 – Visit the Casa Masó, a prime example of Catalan modernism

Casa Masó, Girona

Step inside one of the famous colored houses along the Onyar river designed by the celebrated Catalan architect Rafael Masó.

Embark upon a guided visit of the Casa Masó that was completed in 1912. Visitors can admire the decorative wrought ironwork on the exterior, the patterned ceramic tiles, delicate stained glass panels and ornate window frames.

Transport yourself back in time as you walk around the rooms that are furnished exactly as they would have been in the 19th century!

28 – Explore the outdoors with some exceptional hiking

hiking tours in Girona

Less than 30 minutes drive away from Girona, Canet d’Adri is a great hiking destination full of water pools, gorges and old mills.

1 hour 30 minutes away from Girona, visitors can encounter the rugged natural park of Collsacabra full of forests, meadows, rocky cliffs and waterfalls. This park even contains a submerged village with the former church bell tower peaking up above the waters! Hike through monumental ancient beech forests in the company of a nature expert who will help point out intriguing flora and fauna.

Other major hiking destinations include the peak Sant Jeroni on the beautiful mountain of Montserrat. It takes a 1 hour 40 minutes drive from Girona to arrive at Monserrat but the dramatic landscape and blissful solitude attracts outdoor enthusiasts looking for a physical challenge.

hiking tours in Girona

29 – Take the ultimate leap with skydiving

skydiving tours in Girona

Launch yourself from a plane whilst being harnessed to an instructor to experience the ultimate and exhilarating free fall! After dropping 2000 meters your instructor will inflate the parachute and you will gently glide down to the landing platform below.

The skydiving experiences take place at the Empuriabrava Aerodrome so when parachuting through the air you are guaranteed some excellent views across the Costa Brava coastline. Opt for a platinum skydiving experience and free fall for a whopping 5000 meters with an exclusive camera man to capture the precious highlights.

skydiving in Girona

30 – Walk along to the Monastery of San Daniel

Monastery of San Daniel, Girona

Outside the city center of Girona and along the river of the Galligants, visitors can come across the old Benedictine Sant Daniel Monastery.

The Monastery combines both Gothic and Romanesque architectural styles and visitors can pause to admire the peaceful and well preserved Medieval cloister. The Monastery houses the 14th century Gothic style tomb of Saint Daniel carved by the sculptor Aloi de Montbrai.

The area where the Monastery stands used to be nicknamed the ‘Vall Tenebrosa’ or ‘Gloomy valley’ perhaps due to the former thick forest undergrowth and heavy vegetation!

31 – Flyboard over L’Estartit beach

flyboard tours in Girona

The calm and flat waters of L’Estartit make the ideal location for controlling your flyboard! Enjoy the sense of flying as a high-pressure stream of water propels and thrusts your board into the air. Experienced fly boarders can even manage some aerial tricks such as fun spins and flips!

Flyboarding on L’Estartit provides some excellent views of the Medes islands and some epic holiday memories! Learn how to improve your balance by shifting your weight on the flyboard in order to control the height and direction of the water jet.

flyboard in Girona

32 – Breathe in the sea air at the Marimurtra Botanical Garden

Marimurtra Botanical Garden, Girona

This exotic plant paradise with more than 4,000 plant species is located in the seaside town of Blanes, a 40 minute drive away from Girona.

Founded in 1920 by the German botanist and pharmacist Karl Faust, the gardens are terraced over different levels provided some excellent views over the Mediterranean.

Walk down the attractive pathed avenue flanked by elegant cypress trees to the Linnaeus temple look out or admire the impressive collection of cacti. There are flowers and plants from all over the world from Africa to Central America!

Marimurtra Botanical Garden tickets

33 – Appreciate fine Catalan artworks at the Art Museum, inside the former Episcopal Palace

Art Museum, Girona

At the Art Museum visitors will come face to face with many religious artworks from the Early Middle Ages in Girona along with intricate liturgical objects. Uncover how the Gothic style influenced Catalan art with early sculptures by Mestre Bartomeu of Girona.

Pass through the galleries and be blown away by ornate 15th century altarpieces and understand how Catalan artists were influenced by their Flemish counterparts.

Understand how modern art slowly developed with changes from romanticism to realism. Discover how the city of Girona inspired modernist artists such as Santiago Rusiñol and Mela Mutermilch.

Art Museum tickets

34 – Soar past the high trees with some zip lining

zip lining tours in Girona

Challenge yourself and the family with different high rope challenges amongst the trees with 60 different exciting tests and some epic zip lines at Sant Hilari Sacalm. Sant Hilari Sacalm is a fun zip line park surrounded by lush green nature, a 40 minute drive away from the center of Girona.

Adults can wizz around on a zip line circuit at Masos de Pals located near the coast, a 50 minute car journey from Girona city center. There are plenty of zip line circuits throughout the Costa Brava including Molí Nou de Calaburg, Sant Feliu de Guixols and El Ripollés.

Zip lining is a great team building activity which allows you to be fully engaged and step out of your comfort zone!

zip lining in Girona

35 – Learn about Jewish traditions at the Museum of Jewish History

Museum of Jewish History, Girona

Learn about the origins of the first Jewish settlers in Spain and the persecution of the Jews under the Roman Empire. Gaze upon old artifacts excavated from the Jewish quarter such as ceramic jugs, buckles, earrings and even an old marriage contract!

Enter inside the recreation of a Jewish cemetery with old tombstones and moving epitaphs. Understand more about the daily life of the Jewish community and the types of popular occupations such as craftsmen, booksellers, cartographers, doctors, commerce and money lending.

The Museum of Jewish History is held in the Bonastruc ça Porta Centre in the historic Jewish quarter of Girona. Make sure to admire the decorative star of David in the main courtyard. The building used to be an old synagogue and recent excavations have uncovered that even before there were remains of a 13th century Jewish house.

36 – Feel the waves with some windsurfing

windsurfing tours in Girona

There are several different places along the Costa Brava ideal for windsurfing such as S’Agaró, L’Estartit or the Port de la Selva. Opt to take a course consisting of various lessons or if you are experienced, rent some equipment and you are ready to go!

The Costa Brava experiences reliable wind patterns (in particular the Tramontana and Garbí winds) which provide excellent conditions for wind surf. The all year mild climate of the Mediterranean means that in general the waters are quite warm, especially during the summer months. Learn how to harness the wind power, complete turns easily on the board and improve your balance and co-ordination skills!

windsurfing in Girona

37 – Rev up the engine in a rip-roaring quad tour

quad tours in Girona

Discover the natural scenery surrounding Sant Miquel de Campmajor in a fun quad bike excursion. Pass through forests, picturesque fields, farms, meadows and rolling hills. Breathe in the rural Catalan countryside air as you completely disconnect from the stresses of your daily routine!

The other top spot for quad biking is La Cerdaña with awe-inspiring vistas of the Western Pyrenees mountains. Power over uneven terrain and even splash across small streams which adds a buzz of adrenaline!

quad tours in Girona

38 – Stop for a coffee along the Rambla de la Llibertat

Rambla de la Llibertat, Girona

This avenue in the Old town of Girona is definitely the place to be for some dining, shopping and of course people-watching! This is the street where locals come to socialize under the shade of the arched porticoes and to share a glass of local vermut (vermouth).

On Saturday many Girona residents head to the Rambla to buy flowers from the street stands or the weekend paper. One of the most impressive building along the Rambla is the Casa Norat with a beautiful Modernist facade with attractive and elongated stained glass windows and decorative stone dragons, flowers and female heads.

39 – Catch a wave with indoor surfing

indoor surfing in Girona

Take a trip to Blanes to have a go on the artificial surf simulator for some consistent swell! Improve your surfing style by getting an optimal position on the board and correcting your posture with the guidance of a friendly instructor.

Indoor surfing is a great rainy day activity or an excellent choice for those celebrating bachelor/ette parties! Have a laugh as you splash around on the surf board and boost your surfing confidence! The artificial waves can move up to 50 kilometers an hour so you can definitely pick up some power when you manage to stand up!

surf lessons in Girona

40 – Assist the colorful Flower Festival, the ‘Temps de Flors’

Temps de Flors, Girona

The flower festival began as a humble event in the 1950s and since then has evolved and bloomed to enchant and encompass the whole city of Girona.

The festival now includes around 100 venues across the city and tourists come from far and wide to photograph the eye catching and sweet scenting floral displays! There are also prizes for the best decorated shop window flower arrangements.

The event typically takes place annually during May however the exact dates vary from year to year. During the evening many of the flower installations are illuminated creating a magical ambiance!

41 – Splash around at the Water World Aquatic Park

Water World Aquatic Park, Girona

Located in Lloret de Mar, the Water World Aquatic Park has one of the largest water rides in the whole of Europe, the epic Rafting River! The Park is designed with a tropical theme featuring palm trees and green areas!

Spend a day with the family jumping in the wave pools, sliding along the rapid river and gliding down the zippy kamikaze slides! There are plenty of water roller coasters to keep the kids entertained for hours of fun! Cool off and take a break in the picnic area or deck out in the solarium to absorb some Mediterranean sun!

Water World Aquatic Park tickets

42 – Check out the changing art exhibitions at CaixaForum

CaixaForum, Girona

Located in a former Medieval palace on the Carrer dels Ciutadans, the CaixaForum offers an excellent space for art exhibits. Past popular exhibitions have included ‘Art and Myth, the Gods of the Prado’, ‘Objects of Desire, Surrealism and Design’ and ‘Posters of Modern Life, the Origins of Art Advertising.’

CaixaForum also run workshops for kids, screenings and lectures throughout the year to promote the culture of the visual arts.

43 – Enjoy the tranquility of the Jardins dels Alemanys

Jardins dels Alemanys, Girona

The gardens are named after the Germans because the space was used as a barracks by German soldiers during the 19th century Peninsular war.

This hidden courtyard space tucked away next to the city walls contains some Roman ruins with green creepers growing up over the stone walls and lots of shaded benches to have a relax after having climbed along the city walls. The place is filled with plants and weeds that have grown up amongst the crumbling stones.

Sometimes it is possible to find a street musician animating the space with peaceful melodies!

44 – Indulge in some of Girona’s best restaurants

best restaurants in Girona

Treat yourself to an outstanding gastronomic meal at Divinum on the Carrer de l’Albereda. Their dining room has a classic arched brick ceiling creating a cozy and intimate dining experience. All the plates and thoughtfully and artistically crafted with an emphasis on regional specialities.

For an authentic bistro in the heart of Girona, grab a bite to eat at the charming Vintages. The wooden chairs and tables, low lighting and tiled floor creates a rustic atmosphere. They produce typical hearty food using local ingredients.

For a fine dining experience in one of the best restaurants in Girona head to El Celler de Can Roca slightly outside the city center. The space is innovative and stylish with a bright courtyard full of trees. The place has 3 Michelin stars, mixing traditional Catalan cuisine with contemporary flare.

45 – Unwind with some of the best nightlife

best nightlife in Girona

Music lovers should head to the Sunset Jazz Club, right in the heart of the historic center. The place has a sophisticated cosy vintage vibe with red dark walls plastered with photographs of musicians and red velvet sofas and armchairs. There is also an outdoor courtyard for jam session, concerts and cocktails on a summer evening.

One of the best bars and clubs in Girona to kick off a night out is Espit Chupitos Girona. Enjoy some cocktails and shots with friendly staff and animated rock music.

Or make your way to the piano bar Lola café in the heart of the old Jewish Quarter. Enjoy a rumba performance and some live music if you are lucky or enjoy one of their great mojito cocktails. Music nights usually take place on Wednesdays.

How to get to Girona?

Visitors can fly into the Girona-Costa Brava Airport, which is just 10.5 kilometers away from the city center. Other nearby airports include the much larger Barcelona El Prat airport or the airport of Perpignan.

In order to save time during your journey, check out Tourscanner’s selection of airport transfers in Girona. Booking up airport transfers in Girona in advance can help ease the hassle of getting to and from your hotel.

Where to stay in Girona?

Pensió Bellmirall is a rustic and authentic bed and breakfast just a 100 meters walk away from the Cathedral. Admire the old fashioned antique furniture and the ancient stone walls. Guests can enjoy an ample breakfast on the small patio in the back courtyard.

The 4 star Montjuic Boutique Bed & Breakfast Girona is surrounded by peaceful fruit trees but also within walking distance from the city center. Take a dip in the salted water pool, relax in the garden or chill out in the outdoor hot tub. Remember to dedicate an evening to appreciate the stunning views overlooking the city and Cathedral from the terrace!

For those who are traveling with a car, one of the best hotels just outside Girona has to be the 4 star Mas Tulsà Casa Rural Girona. This rural hotel is located 8 kilometers away from the city center, in the tranquil village of Riudellots de la Creu. The large stone farm house is full of rustic charm with a pool and garden. Ideal for those traveling with kids who want more outdoor space or those who are keen to discover the local nearby hiking routes.

best hotels in Girona

Visiting Girona on a budget?

Book onto one of the free walking tours in Girona to ensure that you don’t miss any of the major landmarks! Learn more in-depth history facts thanks to a local guide who can also share some of the more unknown legends! Free walking tours in Girona are also the perfect opportunity to ask any questions regarding local culture!

To save money of sight-seeing, consider purchasing The Girona Pass, a 48 hour ticket that includes access to Girona Cathedral, the Church of Sant Felix and the Girona Art Museum with an audio guide.

Where to go next?

After your trip to Girona make sure to check out our other articles on some of the best places to visit in Spain!

After Girona, discover the Catalonian capital Barcelona, full of exquisite Gaudí architecture blending natural forms with modernist styles. Discovering world class artworks at the Picasso and Miró foundation museums or wandering around the dark authentic streets of the Gothic quarter are some of the essential things to do in Barcelona.

There are also plenty of things to do in Zaragoza, famous worldwide for the magnificent baroque basilica dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Explore Mudéjar architecture that combines both Islamic and Christian design elements at the stunningly decorative Aljafería Palace!

Or head to the Basque country, to uncover things to do in San Sebastian such as frequented the typical pintxo bars for some fresh seafood snacks or strolling along the classic promenade at beach of La Concha. There are also many things to do in Bilbao such as visiting Frank Gehry’s iconic Guggenheim gallery or navigating the seven streets of the Old Town, laden with historic buildings and charming squares.

Alternatively tuck into an authentic paella in sunny Valencia! Admiring the unique and futuristic architecture of the City of Arts and Sciences or walking round the Cathedral home to the legendary Holy Grail relic are some of the top things to do in Valencia!

Finally, don’t forget to pay a visit to the captivating Spanish capital Madrid! Taking a boat trip on the lake at the Retiro park or marveling at the genius of Velazquez or Goya paintings at the Prado Museum are amongst the essential things to do in Madrid!

Final thoughts

With our extensive list of vibrant and unforgettable things to do in Girona, we trust you’ve found inspiration for your upcoming adventure!

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker eager to experience quad biking, skydiving, or zip-lining, or an art aficionado ready to immerse yourself in Catalan modernist architecture and marvel at exquisite religious paintings at the Girona Art Museum, Girona caters to every traveler’s whims and fancies.

What’s your favorite activities? Let us know in the comments.

As always, happy travels!

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45 Fun & Unusual Things to Do in Girona, Spain