Girona: 3 Days Itinerary - A Blend of Medieval Romance and Modern Vibrance

Nestled in the heart of Catalonia, Girona is an undervalued jewel offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and culinary delights. This 3-day Girona itinerary guides you through a city that has been shaped by Romans, Moors, and medieval knights. Pro Tip: For the best photos, head to the top of the Força Vella fortress during golden hour. You won’t regret it!
Pro Tip:For the best photos, head to the top of the Força Vella fortress during golden hour. You won’t regret it!

Day 1: A Deep Dive into Girona's History

  1. Girona Cathedral

 

Start your Girona 3 days extravaganza at the Girona Cathedral. This isn’t just another church; it’s a snapshot of religious architecture spanning centuries.

Why: Known for its towering Gothic spires and Romanesque cloisters, it’s a living testament to the city’s rich heritage.

How to Reach: A 10-minute walk from Plaça Independència.

Pro Tip: Visit on a Sunday morning to witness a local Mass in the cathedral’s grand setting.

 

  1. Arab Baths

 

A stone’s throw away from the Cathedral, the Arab Baths transport you to Girona’s Moorish past.

Why: These baths are an intimate look at the daily life and luxuries of medieval Moorish culture.

How to Reach: Literally a 5-minute walk from the Girona Cathedral.

Pro Tip: Go early in the morning; the serenity is magnified when you have the place to yourself.

 

  1. Força Vella

 

This Roman fortress is the founding cornerstone of Girona.

Why: Inside, you’ll find remnants of Girona’s military past and incredible city views.

How to Reach: Another 10-minute walk from the Arab Baths.

Pro Tip: Visit at dusk. The sun setting behind the city offers a magical experience.

 

  1. Rambla de la Llibertat

 

This bustling marketplace is Girona in a nutshell—vibrant, colorful, and full of life.

Why: It’s the perfect place to sample Girona’s culinary scene.

How to Reach: A 5-minute walk from Força Vella.

Pro Tip: Look out for local artisanal products to take home as souvenirs.

 

If you ready to modify our itinerary – don`t hesitate to read our full Girona things to do guide.

Girona, Spain

Day 2: Immersed in Culture and Nature

  1. Museu d’Art de Girona

 

Start your day at the Girona Art Museum, the city’s cultural epicenter.

Why: It offers a sprawling collection ranging from Romanesque religious artifacts to modern Catalonian art.

How to Reach: A 15-minute walk from your last stop at Rambla de la Llibertat.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Gothic hall; it’s a hidden gem within the museum.

 

  1. Eiffel Bridge

 

Yes, Gustave Eiffel had his fingerprints on Girona too!

Why: This red iron bridge offers a unique perspective of the colorful houses lining the Onyar River.

How to Reach: A simple 10-minute walk along the river from the Art Museum.

Pro Tip: Come at twilight for the perfect Instagrammable moment.

 

  1. Devesa Park

 

Stretch those legs in the expansive Devesa Park.

Why: With over 2,500 plane trees, it’s the lungs of Girona and a great spot for a leisurely stroll.

How to Reach: A brief 12-minute walk from the Eiffel Bridge.

Pro Tip: Saturday mornings host a vibrant local market. Grab some fresh produce for a picnic!

 

  1. Sant Feliu

 

End your day at this under-the-radar church that rivals the more popular Girona Cathedral.

Why: Its Baroque facade and medieval tombs are both artistic and historical.

How to Reach: Return to the old town, about a 15-minute walk.

Pro Tip: Try to attend the evening Vespers for an authentic local experience.

 

Girona, Spain

Day 3: Local Life and Hidden Treasures

  1. Cinema Museum

 

Kickstart the last of your 3 days in Girona at the Cinema Museum.

Why: It’s one of the few museums in the world dedicated solely to the history and magic of cinema.

How to Reach: A 10-minute walk from your accommodation in the old town.

Pro Tip: The interactive exhibits are fun for both kids and adults, so don’t rush.

 

  1. El Call

 

Immerse yourself in Girona’s Jewish history by walking through the Jewish Quarter.

Why: The narrow cobblestone streets and hidden courtyards offer a journey back in time.

How to Reach: A brief 7-minute walk from the Cinema Museum.

Pro Tip: The Museum of Jewish History here provides deep insights; don’t skip it.

 

  1. Plaça Independència

 

Named after the War of Spanish Independence, this square is a hub of local life.

Why: Cafes, shops, and locals abound. It’s the city’s beating heart.

How to Reach: Another 10-minute walk through the winding streets.

Pro Tip: Try the local dish ‘botifarra’ at one of the surrounding eateries.

 

  1. Casa Masó

 

End your Girona itinerary here, at the birthplace of architect Rafael Masó.

Why: The home-turned-museum is a beautiful example of Noucentisme architecture.

How to Reach: A quick 5-minute walk back towards the river.

Pro Tip: The rooftop offers one last panoramic view of Girona; a perfect place to say goodbye.

 

Add more Catalonian experience with the top 10 places to Visit in Catalonia guide.

Best areas to stay and to avoid

5 Best Areas to Live in Girona:

Barri Vell – The historic core, filled with medieval architecture.

El Mercadal – Close to shopping centers and the business district.

La Devesa – A residential area close to Devesa Park.

Sant Narcís – A local favorite, quieter but still well-connected.

Montjuïc – Higher-end, with great views of the city.

 

5 Areas to Avoid in Girona

Can Gibert del Pla – Not very tourist-friendly.

Domeny – Mostly industrial.

Santa Eugènia – Far from the main attractions.

Vila-roja – Lacks tourist amenities.

Taialà – Better for long-term residential stays, not ideal for tourists.