Girona: a great destination overshadowed by Barcelona
Written by Karen BryanGirona is an ideal short break destination easily reached from all over Europe with Ryanair flights. Most people get straight on the bus to go to Barcelona. However if you are looking for somwhere a bit quieter and different, Girona is a good choice. Girona was christened one of the most underrated and overlooked destinations by Fodor’s and I certainly agree.
The riverside in Girona
Girona is a really beautiful city, with medieval origins, situated on the River Onyar. You could easily spend a couple of days wandering round the old town, walking the city walls, visiting the cafes, restaurants and shops. With the Tiquet M5 you pay the full entrance fee at the first city museum you visit and receive a 50% discount when you visit the other musuems. The grand cathedral, housing the widest unsupported Gothic arch in the world, dates from the 11th century. The Jewish quarter is one of the largest and best preserved in Europe.
Square in Girona
I’ve visited Girona couple of times but all too briefly, once an overnight after an evening arrival at Girona airport and the other visit was on a day trip when I was staying on the coast We stayed at the centrally located 3 star Hotel Peninsular. One of best aspects about the Peninsular was the sumptious breafkast buffet.
If you have more than a couple of days, Girona offers many possibilities for day trips either by rail or bus or hiring a car. You could have a day by the sea, I really liked Cadaques on the Cap de Creus penisula, north of Girona. It was a favourite of both Picasso and Dali. You could go inland and visit Besalu, the Dali Theatre-Museum in Figueres or the lake at Banyoles. If you’re feeling adventurous it doesn’t take long to reach the the Perpignan area in the south western corner of France.
Besalu, Girona Province
This post was featured on the Carnival of Travel Guide no 8.
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After this post I agree that Girona is an ‘underrated and overlooked’ destination. I love reading about those smaller, lesser-known, but equally as beautiful destinations. Thanks and I can’t wait to read more posts.
Glad to hear that you enjoyed the post about Girona, Annette. I aim to feature less well known destinations on my site as I believe you can have a more authentic experience during your trip, if you venture, even slightly, off the beaten tourist track and get better value for money.
Hi,
Girona has also a particularly lively cultural scene hosting Film, Theatre and Cartoon festivals in the autumn.
Nice Post!
Hispacar – thanks for your comment. Yes, Girona is a great destination.
I completely agree with you.The analysis which you have provided is great. Girona is just overshadowed by Barcelona otherwise there are plenty of opportunities available at this place. I have been to Girona and got a chance to have a walk beside River Onyar in the evening and i still cherish that evening.Sight seeing is another great opportunity here but i was out of time so was not able to enjoy much.But i recommend others to visit this place.
GA – thanks for your comment. I’ve been to Girona twice, only briefly, but thought it was a lovely city, great destination for short break or a base for exploring the surrounding area (maybe even a day trip to Barcelona)?