Girona Itinerary for 3 Days / 5 Days
Overview
Girona is a charming Catalan city where medieval history, art, and gastronomy meet. Its compact size makes it easy to explore on foot, yet its surroundings—ranging from the Costa Brava coastline to the Pyrenees—offer diverse experiences for travelers staying longer. Whether you have three days or five, Girona rewards visitors with a perfect mix of culture, relaxation, and adventure.
3-Day Itinerary: The Perfect Introduction to Girona
Day 1: Exploring Girona’s Historic Heart
Morning:
Begin your journey in the Old Town (Barri Vell), Girona’s beautifully preserved medieval quarter. Wander through its narrow cobblestone streets, passing arched passageways and ancient stone houses. Visit the Girona Cathedral, known for having the widest Gothic nave in the world, and climb its staircase for sweeping city views.
Afternoon:
Walk along the Passeig de la Muralla, the medieval city walls that offer panoramic views of Girona’s rooftops and surrounding countryside. Continue on to the Jewish Quarter (El Call)—one of Europe’s best-preserved—and explore its maze-like alleys. Stop for lunch at a local café or restaurant along Plaça de la Independència.
Evening:
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the Onyar River and cross one of its bridges, such as the Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles). End the day with dinner at a traditional Catalan restaurant and sample local dishes such as botifarra amb mongetes or pa amb tomàquet.
Day 2: Culture, Cuisine, and Scenic Views
Morning:
Start your day at the Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs), a 12th-century bathhouse inspired by Roman and Moorish designs. Afterwards, visit the Museum of Jewish History for deeper insight into Girona’s multicultural past.
Afternoon:
Take a stroll through Devesa Park, one of the largest urban parks in Catalonia. Its towering plane trees make it ideal for a relaxing walk or picnic. For lunch, visit Mercat del Lleó, Girona’s main market, where you can sample local cheeses, olives, and pastries.
Evening:
Girona has a vibrant dining scene. If possible, reserve a table at El Celler de Can Roca, one of the world’s most renowned restaurants. Alternatively, enjoy a tapas crawl through the Old Town, visiting small bars and tasting local wines from the Empordà region.
Day 3: Art, Film, and Local Life
Morning:
Visit the Museum of Cinema (Museu del Cinema), which traces the history of visual storytelling from shadow play to modern film. Afterward, explore Girona’s contemporary side in the Eixample district, filled with cafés, boutiques, and modern architecture.
Afternoon:
Take a self-guided Game of Thrones walking tour to see filming locations from Season Six, including the cathedral staircase and city walls. Alternatively, rent a bicycle and explore the scenic Sant Daniel Valley or nearby countryside.
Evening:
Spend your final evening enjoying the relaxed charm of Girona. Walk along the Rambla de la Llibertat, where locals gather in the evening, and enjoy a final dinner outdoors with views of the illuminated cathedral.
5-Day Itinerary: A Deeper Exploration of Girona and Its Surroundings
If you have five days, use the first three days to follow the itinerary above. Then add the following:
Day 4: Day Trip to Figueres and the Dalí Theatre-Museum
Take the train from Girona to Figueres, the birthplace of Salvador Dalí (about 40 minutes each way). Spend the day exploring the Dalí Theatre-Museum, one of Spain’s most unique art institutions. Its surreal architecture and collection of Dalí’s works make it a must-see for art enthusiasts.
After visiting the museum, stroll through Figueres’s local market or have lunch at a nearby Catalan restaurant before returning to Girona in the evening.
Evening:
Relax back in Girona with a quiet dinner by the river or enjoy a glass of local wine in one of the Old Town’s cozy bars.
Day 5: Excursion to the Costa Brava or Besalú
Choose between two excellent day-trip options:
Option 1: Costa Brava
Take a bus or join a guided trip to the Costa Brava, famous for its rugged coastline and crystal-clear waters. Towns like Calella de Palafrugell, Tamariu, or Tossa de Mar offer beaches, seaside promenades, and traditional seafood restaurants. Spend the day swimming, walking coastal trails, or relaxing by the Mediterranean.
Option 2: Besalú
If you prefer a cultural experience, visit Besalú, a beautifully preserved medieval village about an hour from Girona by bus. Walk across its famous stone bridge, visit the 12th-century Mikveh (Jewish ritual bath), and enjoy the small-town charm and local shops.
Evening:
Return to Girona and spend your final evening savoring the city’s ambiance—perhaps a sunset stroll along the city walls or a farewell dinner featuring Catalan specialties.
Alternative Activities (for Any Day)
If you have additional time or wish to customize your itinerary, consider:
- Visiting the Sant Pere de Galligants Monastery, a Romanesque gem housing the Archaeology Museum.
- Hiking to Sant Miquel Castle, which offers panoramic views over Girona.
- Attending local events or festivals, such as Temps de Flors (May) or Sant Narcís Festival (October).
- Exploring nearby vineyards in the Empordà wine region for wine tasting.
Summary of the Ideal Stay
| Duration | Highlights | Focus |
| ---------- | -------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------- |
| 3 Days | Girona’s main attractions, cuisine, and history | Best for first-time visitors |
| 5 Days | Adds day trips to Figueres, Costa Brava, or Besalú | Perfect for deeper cultural and scenic experiences |
Conclusion
Girona offers the perfect balance of history, culture, and gastronomy, making it an ideal destination for both short and extended stays. In three days, you can capture the essence of the city—its medieval architecture, vibrant food scene, and relaxed charm. With five days, you’ll have the opportunity to experience more of Catalonia’s treasures, from Dalí’s surreal art to the beaches of the Costa Brava. Whether you come for a weekend or a full week, Girona promises an experience that’s both enriching and unforgettable.
