Amazing Day Trips from Barcelona to Girona: The Ultimate Guide

Thinking about escaping the Barcelona buzz for a day? Let's talk about Girona! This charming city, with its colorful houses and medieval walls, is a fantastic option for a day trip. You might even recognize some spots from Game of Thrones. But is it really worth it to take one of those day trips from Barcelona to Girona? That’s what we're going to figure out. We'll explore if Girona deserves a spot on your travel list, how to get there without a headache, and what you absolutely can't miss when you arrive. We'll cover the best ways to travel from Barcelona to Girona, how much time you'll need, and of course, the top things to see, including a walk along the ancient city walls and a visit to the Jewish Quarter. So, grab a coffee, and let's plan your perfect day trip!

Is Girona Worth a Day Trip from Barcelona?

so you're wondering if Girona is worth ditching Barcelona for a day? Let me tell you, if you’ve got more than three days in Barcelona, then a trip to Girona is a must-do. Barcelona is amazing, I love the city, but it can be a bit much sometimes, you know? Girona is like a breath of fresh air, a total change of pace. It’s smaller, more laid-back, and seriously picturesque. Think colorful buildings lining a river, ancient walls you can walk on, and a really cool old town to get lost in. Plus, if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you'll get to see some of the filming locations. It's like stepping into a different world, one with a lot less hustle and bustle than you’ll find in Barcelona.

Getting from Barcelona to Girona: Your Transportation Options

so you're sold on Girona, now, how do you actually get there? Forget about complicated stuff, the train is your best friend here. It’s seriously the easiest and fastest way to travel from Barcelona to Girona. I’m talking about a quick 38-minute ride from Barcelona Sants station. No fuss, no traffic, just sit back and enjoy the views. You can also take a bus, but honestly, why would you? It takes way longer, around an hour and a half, and it’s not as comfortable. I mean, who wants to spend their precious vacation time stuck on a bus when you could be exploring a medieval town? So, my advice? Stick with the train, it's a no-brainer.

Before you jump on the train, a quick heads-up: make sure you book your tickets in advance, especially if you're traveling during peak season. It's cheaper, and you guarantee yourself a seat. You can easily book them online through the Renfe website, that's the Spanish train company, or use a third-party app. Don't be that person scrambling for a ticket at the last minute, trust me, I've seen it, it's not pretty. And when you get to Barcelona Sants station, just follow the signs for the high-speed trains, they’re usually pretty clear. Now you are ready to go.

Exploring Girona: MustSee Sights and How Much Time to Spend

How Much Time Do You Really Need in Girona?

Alright, so you've made it to Girona, fantastic! Now, how much time should you actually spend there? I'd say aim for at least 4 hours to really soak it all in. This gives you enough time to wander around the main sights, grab a coffee, and maybe even do a bit of shopping. If you're a big fan of Game of Thrones, you might want to add an extra hour or two for the walking tour. Trust me, you don't want to rush through this city, it's best enjoyed at a relaxed pace.

The good news is that Girona’s city center is super walkable. Everything is pretty close together, so you won’t be spending all your time trekking from one place to another. You can easily navigate the narrow streets and find the main attractions without a problem. I remember the first time I visited, I was surprised how compact it was, it made exploring so easy and enjoyable.

Girona's Top Sights: What Not to Miss

let’s talk about the must-see spots. First up is the Girona Cathedral, it's seriously impressive. The architecture is stunning, and you can climb up to the top for amazing views of the city. Next, you absolutely have to wander through the old town, it's like stepping back in time. Don't forget to explore the Jewish Quarter, with its narrow, winding streets, it's a really unique part of the city. And of course, you can’t leave without walking along the ancient walls of Girona. It gives you a great perspective of the city. Seriously, the views are incredible, and it's a perfect spot for taking photos.

• Girona Cathedral: Marvel at the architecture and city views.
• Old Town: Wander through history.
• Jewish Quarter: Explore the unique, narrow streets.
• Ancient City Walls: Enjoy panoramic views.

A Coffee Break and Game of Thrones

After all that exploring, you’ll definitely need a coffee break. I highly recommend La Fabrica, it's a really cool cafe with great coffee and snacks. It's the perfect place to rest your feet and recharge before continuing your adventure. Also, for all the Game of Thrones fans out there, a walking tour is a must. You'll get to see the filming locations up close, and learn all about how the city was transformed for the show. It's a super cool experience, even if you're not a huge fan.

So, there you have it! Girona is a fantastic day trip from Barcelona, it's totally worth it. With its beautiful sights, relaxed atmosphere, and Game of Thrones connection, you're bound to have a memorable day. Remember to take your time, enjoy the views, and don't forget to try the coffee. You won't regret it!

Wrapping Up Your Girona Day Trip

So, there you have it. Girona is definitely worth considering for one of your day trips from Barcelona, especially if you've got more than a few days in the city. It's a nice change of pace, offering a blend of history, charm, and a bit of TV magic. The train ride is quick and easy, and the city itself is very walkable. Just make sure you give yourself enough time to wander the streets, soak in the views, and maybe grab a coffee at a cute café. If you are looking for a memorable escape from the lively streets of Barcelona, Girona will be a good choice for you. Go explore!