Is Girona Worth Visiting? 7 Pros + 3 Cons (2026 Reviews)

Curious if Girona is worth visiting?

Sure, this medieval gem just a 38-minute train ride from Barcelona offers a blend of history, architecture, and Spanish charm without the bustling crowds of a major city.

But… should it take up valuable time during your short visit?

Let’s look at it a bit deeper.

Is Girona Spain Worth a Visit​?

Whether you’re a fan of scenic old towns, a history enthusiast, or a “Game of Thrones” follower, Girona has something unique to offer.

Personally, as someone who’s lived in Barcelona for 12 years now, it’s my favourite town to visit of all the top day trips from Barcelona.

That said, I know it might not be the perfect fit for you… so let’s break down some pros and cons shall we?

Let’s start with the positives.

Here’s why Girona is a day trip you won’t regret:

✅ Reasons to Visit Girona Spain

1. The Jewish Quarter: One of the oldest and best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, Girona’s El Call is a fascinating maze of narrow, winding streets. Each turn reveals ancient buildings, cobblestone lanes, and rich history. Wandering here feels like stepping back in time, making it a must-see for anyone interested in Spain’s Jewish heritage.

2. The City’s Ancient Walls: Girona’s medieval city walls, known as Passeig de la Muralla, offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Walking along these walls provides an elevated perspective on Girona’s architecture and scenic backdrop, while the watchtowers allow for even better photo ops.

3. River Views and Colourful Buildings: The vibrant houses along the Onyar River are one of Girona’s most iconic sights. From the Pont de Pedra or the Eiffel Bridge (designed by Gustav Eiffel before the Eiffel Tower), you’ll capture postcard-perfect views of the colourful riverfront. It’s a unique spot that captures the essence of Girona’s charm.

4. The Girona Cathedral: Sitting high on a hill with a grand staircase leading to its entrance, Girona Cathedral dominates the skyline. It’s an impressive Gothic structure and was famously featured in “Game of Thrones” as the Great Sept of Baelor. Even if you’re not a fan, the views from the top are worth the climb!

5. Game of Thrones Fans Love It: Speaking of “Game of Thrones,” Girona served as the setting for scenes in Braavos and King’s Landing. Take a guided tour to see filming locations scattered throughout the city, including the narrow streets where Arya Stark made her escape. Even non-fans will appreciate the cinematic beauty of these historic spots.
6. The Arab Baths: A 12th-century Romanesque bathhouse inspired by Moorish designs, Girona’s Banys Àrabs is a well-preserved relic of medieval hygiene. Featuring a domed central pool, stone columns, and frigidarium, it once served as a public bathing space.

6. It’s a Relaxing Escape from the City: Unlike the crowded streets of Barcelona, Girona offers a more peaceful experience. With fewer tourists, you’ll find it easier to wander at your own pace, enjoy the open squares, and relax in local cafes. It’s a refreshing change of pace that many travellers appreciate.
7. Girona Cinema Museum: oused in a historic building, the Museu del Cinema explores the evolution of moving images, from shadow puppets to early film reels. Its collection includes vintage projectors, magic lanterns, and rare cinema memorabilia.

7. It’s Affordable and Convenient: Thanks to the high-speed train, Girona is an easy, quick, and affordable day trip. Tickets are reasonably priced, and the scenic journey takes under an hour. This convenience makes Girona ideal for travelers looking to add variety to their Catalonia itinerary without a huge time commitment.

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❌ Reasons Not to Visit Girona

1. Limited Nightlife: Girona is a charming and quiet city, which means it doesn’t have the nightlife or vibrant bar scene of Barcelona. While there are cozy bars and restaurants, it’s not the best destination if you’re seeking an active nightlife.
2. Limited Attractions for Longer Stays: The compact layout makes Girona ideal for a day trip, but it might feel limited if you’re planning to stay longer. Most highlights can be seen within a single day, so if you’re after a more extended experience, consider pairing it with other nearby destinations.
3. Crowded During High Season: While Girona is quieter than Barcelona, it does get busier in peak tourist seasons, especially around “Game of Thrones” filming spots and main landmarks. Arriving early in the day can help you enjoy the city before crowds gather.

Making Girona Worth It: Convenient Tour Options

Of course, another potential con for many of my readers, who are just passing through Barcelona, is the fact that booking train tickets and getting to Girona could be a hassle.

That’s why I suggest looking at the top guided tours to Girona from Barcelona.

In general, there are four types of tours you can take from Barcelona:

• Girona Guided City Tour from Barcelona: just a trip to visit the city, with an enthusiastic guide, all transport included aboard the RENFE high speed train to maximize time.
• Girona + Game of Thrones Tour: discover Girona through the lens of the city’s most famous locations lent to the epic TV series that we all love.
• Girona + Costa Brava Guided Tour: a great option for summer, you’ll visit Girona and also see some of the most majestic coves (see the pic above!) along Barcelonians’ favourite beach spots.
• Girona + Dali Museum Guided Tour: arguably the best museum in the region, you’ll get a visit to Girona as well as the full meal deal at the Dali Museum in Figueres.

In all, paying for the full package and letting an expert take you through is the least amount of hassle possible.

Again though, it is possible independently as well, if you don’t mind a bit more planning.

Reviews of Potential Tours

Here’s a feature review of the tour to the Costa Brava:

And another for the Girona + Dali tour:

Here’s a bit of a long winded look at the Game of Thrones Tour:

Finally, a look at the basic Girona tour from Barcelona:

Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Visit

Want to get the best out of Girona?

Here are some helpful tips:

• Arrive Early for a Peaceful Experience: Aim to take the earliest train from Barcelona. Arriving before 9 a.m. lets you explore the cathedral steps and narrow streets before the crowds arrive.
• Walk the City Walls for Sunset Views: The city walls provide stunning views, especially in the evening light. It’s a beautiful, photogenic way to wrap up your day in Girona.
• Enjoy a Coffee Break at La Fabrica: A popular spot with cyclists, La Fabrica offers delicious coffees, Instagram-worthy avocado toast, and a cozy atmosphere. It’s a great place to relax and soak in Girona’s ambiance.
• Have a Meal at Plaça del Vi: If you’re looking for a value lunch or dinner with Catalan flare, at one of the best local spots in Girona, then make sure to grab at table at Restaurante VII.
• Don’t Skip the Jewish Museum: For those interested in history, Girona’s Jewish Museum offers rich insights into the city’s Jewish heritage and culture.

Final Thoughts: Is Girona Spain Worth Visiting?

So… is Girona Spain worth visiting​?

Well, as I said, it offers medieval charm, cinematic beauty, and a relaxed atmosphere – so there’s that.

Add in some unique history, breathtaking views, and cultural depth, and Girona at the very least offers a refreshing change of pace from the city.

I’ll leave it up to you to make the final call! But in the meantime, know I’m here in the comments if you need custom advice.