Your guide to Girona

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With a medieval old town, a soaring Gothic cathedral and a riverfront lined with brightly painted houses, Girona in Spain’s northeastern Catalonia region has plenty to keep you busy. Explore more than 2,000 years of history, then dine on Catalan classics in traditional tapas bars. The best trips to Girona are also about the outdoors, with the Pyrenees mountains and the Costa Brava’s beaches within easy reach. Find everything you need for your trip in our Girona travel guide.

Girona highlights

Where to stay

Girona’s small footprint means you’re never far from the action. Staying in Barri Vell puts you within walking distance of the cathedral, Arab Baths and the Jewish quarter, as well as boutique hotels in centuries-old buildings. Just over the river, there’s a selection of hotels in and around El Mercadal. L'Eixample, near the train station, offers budget-friendly options.

Medieval streets and monuments

The heart of Girona is a maze of narrow lanes and squares tucked behind ancient walls. Walk the preserved sections for views over the terracotta-tiled roofs, then explore traces of a Roman fort, and wander through El Call, the old Jewish quarter. Save some energy for the climb up the 90-step Baroque staircase to enter Girona Cathedral.

Painted riverfront

The Onyar River runs through Girona, separating the medieval old town from the newer neighbourhoods. Several bridges cross the river, including the red lattice bridge built by Gustave Eiffel’s company about a decade before the iconic tower in Paris. During your trip to Girona, spend time along the riverfront and snap pictures of the colourful painted houses lining its banks.

Girona: Know before you go

Language	Catalan, Spanish
Currency	Euro (€)
Time zone	UTC+1 (CET) and UTC+2 (CEST)
High season	March - October
Low season	November - February

Things to do in Girona

Take in the culture

The museums in Girona don’t disappoint. The Museum of Jewish History and the Girona History Museum offer fascinating insights into hundreds of years of the city’s past. Visit Casa Masó, the only painted river house open to the public. Another popular draw is the Cinema Museum and its collection of magic lanterns and early filmmaking equipment.

Places to eat

Whether you’re after a Michelin-starred feast or a few plates of tapas, restaurants in Girona cater to every appetite and budget. Look for Catalan classics like ‘butifarra amb mongetes’ (pork sausage with white beans) and Girona’s own ‘xuixo’ (a deep-fried cream-filled pastry) on menus across the city. For no-frills traditional cooking, Casa Marieta has been serving hungry customers since 1892.

Nightlife

Nightlife in Girona is more relaxed than rowdy. Start with a glass of vermouth at a local bar, then move on to Plaça de la Independència or Plaça de Sant Feliu, where restaurants and terraces stay busy into the evening. For something livelier, music bars pick up later, with a handful of clubs carrying on into the early hours.

FAQs about visiting Girona

Is it safe to visit Girona?

Girona is a safe city with a low crime rate, but be aware of petty theft in crowded places. Leave valuables in your hotel room and keep your belongings secure when you’re out. And always stick to well-lit areas at night.

When is the best time to visit Girona?

Girona is a year-round destination. July and August are the hottest months, while spring and autumn bring warm days perfect for sightseeing. To experience the city at its most festive, visit in May for Temps de Flors Flower Festival or late October for Fires de Sant Narcís, Girona’s biggest party.

How expensive is a trip to Girona?

You don’t have to splurge to have a good time in Girona. If you’re looking to keep costs down, visit during the shoulder seasons, when you may find deals on flights and hotels. In town, look for ‘menú del día’ (menu of the day) options at restaurants for budget-friendly meals.

How many days do you need for a trip to Girona?

Three days will give you enough time to explore the medieval centre and other main attractions, like the Museum of Jewish History. But if you also want to take in the Costa Brava, consider stretching your stay to a week.

Is Girona a good place to visit?

With a walkable old town, fascinating museums and an attractive riverfront, Girona is one of Catalonia’s most compelling destinations. Want a lazy day at the beach? The Costa Brava is less than an hour away.

What currency is used in Girona?

The euro (€) is the official currency in Girona. Most restaurants, shops and attractions accept credit cards, though it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets.

What language is spoken in Girona?

Catalan and Spanish are both used in Girona. You’ll see Catalan on signs and hear it in daily life, while Spanish is also widely spoken across the city, including in shops, restaurants and tourist areas.

What is the hottest month in Girona?

July is typically the warmest month, with daytime temperatures around 28°C. Summer days can feel hot, especially in the historic centre, though evenings are often more comfortable.

What is the coldest month in Girona?

January is usually the coolest month, with daytime temperatures around 4°C in the early morning and evening. Days are generally milder, but it can feel chilly, especially with damp air.

What is the rainiest month in Girona?

October tends to be the wettest month, with around 100 millimetres of rain. Showers are usually intermittent, often followed by clear spells.