Nestled in the northeastern corner of Catalonia, Girona is a city that effortlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its medieval architecture, winding cobbled streets, and vibrant culinary scene, Girona truly is the perfect escape from the bustling pace of larger nearby cities like Barcelona and Valencia.
Girona is famous for its colorful buildings that line the river and for being the filming location of much of Season 6 of Game of Thrones.
We love Girona, even though we had just a short visit here before catching our flight home from Girona Airport – we had just spent a week in nearby Tossa de Mar. But after seeing with our own eyes how stunning the city is, we are keen to return for a longer stint soon.
And I know that 24 hours in Girona may seem like a short amount of time, but you’d be surprised at how much you can squeeze into one day here. As long as you stick to a schedule and follow my list below (in that order, preferably), you could fit up to 7 sights into your day in Girona.
How We Spent 24 Hours in Girona
Morning – Wander around the city
Start your morning with breakfast at one of Girona’s quaint cafés. Originem on Carrer de la Forca – near-ish the Cathedral is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. It offers a delightful selection of pastries and artisanal coffees.
Then take a leisurely stroll along the Onyar River, where colorful houses line the banks. Next, wander through the narrow, cobbled streets of the Barri Vell (Old Town). It’s one of the best-preserved historic quarters in Spain. Take time to wander through its narrow alleyways, taking in the vibrant colors and textures of the ancient stone buildings.
Late Morning – Go inside the Girona Cathedral
This stunning cathedral in Girona City is renowned for its impressive Gothic nave, which is the widest of its kind in the world, measuring 22 meters across.
Construction of the cathedral began in the 11th century and continued over several centuries, resulting in a captivating blend of Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles. Its exterior is a breathtaking example of Baroque architecture, adorned with intricate sculptures and detailing.
Inside, you can check out the awe-inspiring stained-glass windows, along with a remarkable collection of religious art and artifacts, including the famous Tapestry of Creation.
It cost us 7 euros each to enter; our daughters were free.
Lunch – Jewish Quarter
Afterward, head to the historic Jewish Quarter, El Call, and lose yourself in its maze-like alleyways. It’s such a historically significant area, as it was one of the most important Jewish communities in Spain during the Middle Ages.
Bau Bar is a fantastic place to grab a bite while exploring El Call. In addition to serving the typical Spanish and international dishes, it also features a special Sephardic menu, allowing you to try traditional Jewish cuisine.
Afternoon – Join a Game of Thrones tour
If you’re a “Game of Thrones” fan, take a guided tour to discover filming locations from the series like the stairs of the Church of Sant Martí s’Acosta and Call Jueu (the Jewish Quarter). Yes, the city’s medieval architecture and winding cobblestone streets provided the perfect backdrop for the show’s fictional cities. In particular, Girona served as the setting for Braavos, where Arya Stark trained with the Faceless Men, and parts of King’s Landing.
On this two-hour tour, you’ll explore the streets of Braavos and King’s Landing as you discover the filming locations from Season 6 of Game of Thrones. It costs 35 euros per person.
Alternatively, if you’re not into Game of Thrones, you could tick off some of the museums in the city. Yes, Girona is home to several intriguing museums, such as the Museu d’Història de Girona, where you can learn about the city’s past through engaging exhibits. Alternatively, the Museu del Cinema offers a fascinating journey through the history of film and is a must-visit for movie fans.
Watch the sunset
As the sun starts to set, make your way to the ancient city walls for a stunning panoramic view of Girona bathed in the golden glow of dusk. Walking along the Passeig de la Muralla, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the city and its surrounding landscapes.
Evening – Plaça de la Independència
Plaça de la Independència, a lively square surrounded by neoclassical buildings and bustling with restaurants, is a great place to have dinner this evening. Here, you can indulge in some traditional Catalan cuisine. Try a plate of “escalivada,” a delightful dish made from roasted vegetables, or “fideuà,” a noodle-based paella that is a local favorite.
After dinner, cross the Onyar River via one of its picturesque bridges, such as the Eiffel Bridge, designed by Gustave Eiffel before he constructed his famous tower in Paris. The colorful houses lining the riverbanks create a postcard-perfect view and offer countless photo opportunities.
If you’re in the mood for a drink, stop by one of the cozy bars along the Rambla de la Llibertat, where you can sit and watch the city light up for the night with a cocktail or a craft beer.
✅ These are the most-booked tours in Girona:
Where to Stay in Girona
One standout hotel here in Girona is the Hotel Nord 1901, which is known for its central location, elegant design, and personalized service. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a luxurious hotel in Girona.
Hotel Museu Llegendes de Girona exudes historical charm and is certainly a unique stay in Girona. It blends modern comforts with the mystique of Girona’s legends and history.
And for a boutique experience, Hotel Gran Ultonia offers contemporary style and a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city.
Thanks for Reading!
As you can see, we just had 24 hours in Girona – and even though we got to see a lot of the city, we are still keen to return soon to explore it some more.
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Last Updated on October 5, 2026 by snaphappytravel