If you are planning a trip to Catalonia and are looking for a destination full of charm, history and gastronomy, Girona is the perfect place for you. This city, located in northeastern Spain, offers a unique combination of historical heritage, medieval architecture and picturesque landscapes that will leave you spellbound. Here are the top 10 places not to miss on your visit to Girona.
1. Old Town: Labyrinth of Medieval Streets
Girona's old town is a maze of cobbled streets and picturesque squares that will transport you back to the Middle Ages. Stroll through the Barri Vell and admire the impressive Girona Cathedral, a jewel of Catalan Gothic architecture, and explore the Jewish quarter, one of the best preserved in Europe. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the 86 steps of the Cathedral staircase for breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
2. River Onyar: Bridge of the Peixateries Velles and Casas de Colores (Coloured Houses)
The Onyar River is the heart of Girona, and a stroll along its banks will allow you to enjoy some of the city's most breathtaking views. Admire the famous Peixateries Velles Bridge, designed by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel, and marvel at the colourful houses lining the river. Don't miss the opportunity to take a boat trip on the river and see the city from a different perspective.
3. The Wall: A walk through history
Girona's city walls are one of the city's main attractions and offer a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in its history. Take a walk around the ancient fortifications and admire the breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding countryside. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Jardí dels Alemans, a beautiful park located at the top of the ramparts, which offers breathtaking panoramic views.
4. Museum of Art: Cultural Treasures
The Girona Art Museum houses an impressive collection of works of art ranging from the Middle Ages to the contemporary era. Discover masterpieces by Catalan artists such as Ramon Martí Alsina and Joaquim Vayreda, as well as an impressive collection of sacred art. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the museum's Gothic chapel, a 14th-century architectural gem.
5. Independence Square: Centre of Social Life
Plaça de la Independència is the heart of Girona's social life and an essential place to visit during your stay in the city. Enjoy a coffee on one of the square's terraces and watch life go by, or visit one of the restaurants and shops that line the square. Don't miss the chance to try the famous "coca de llardons", a traditional local sweet.
6. Banys Àrabs: Relics of the Medieval Period
The Banys Àrabs are one of Girona's best-kept secrets and a must-see for lovers of history and architecture. These Arab baths, built in the 12th century, are one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture in Spain. Explore the different rooms of the baths and marvel at their impressive vaults and horseshoe arches.
7. Sant Pere de Galligants: Romanesque Treasury
Sant Pere de Galligants is a jewel of Catalan Romanesque architecture and one of the most important monuments in Girona. This former Benedictine abbey, built in the 12th century, has an impressive central nave and a square bell tower. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Archaeology Museum of Catalonia, which is housed in the former monastery and houses an impressive collection of archaeological artefacts.
8. Devesa Gardens: Green Oasis
The Devesa Gardens are a green oasis in the heart of Girona and the perfect place to relax and enjoy nature. Stroll along the tree-lined paths and admire the beautiful views of the gardens and the Ter river. Don't miss the opportunity to have a picnic on the lawn or just sit and read a book under the shade of a tree.
9. Fira de Girona: Traditional Market
The Fira de Girona is a traditional market held every week in the city centre and offers a unique opportunity to discover the flavours and aromas of local gastronomy. Explore the stalls selling fresh fruit and vegetables, artisan cheeses, cured meats and traditional sweets,
and enjoy the lively and colourful atmosphere of the market. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the local specialities, such as "coca de recapte" or "fuet".
10. Culinary Experience: Local Gastronomy
We end our list with a gastronomic experience in Girona, which offers a wide variety of restaurants and bars where you can enjoy delicious Catalan cuisine. Try some of the region's most emblematic dishes, such as "fideuà", "suquet de peix" or "cremat", accompanied by a good local wine. Don't miss the opportunity to visit one of the city's Michelin-starred restaurants, which offer a unique and unforgettable culinary experience.
Get ready to explore the beauty and charm of Girona, a city that will surprise you at every turn with its unique history, architecture and gastronomy!
