Top 15 Girona Tours for an Unforgettable Experience

Girona is a city of approximately 100,000 inhabitants located in the northeastern part of Spain, just inland from the Mediterranean Sea.

Situated at the intersection of four rivers, it is conveniently located near France to the north and about an hour’s journey from Barcelona to the southwest.

Throughout much of its history, Girona was a focal point of contention among various cultures, including the Romans and Moors. It experienced multiple cycles of capture and recapture before ultimately becoming permanently under Spanish governance.

Today, Girona is recognized as one of the country’s most significant historical destinations and is particularly celebrated for its remarkable natural beauty, flourishing art and culinary scenes, and a multitude of outdoor activities.

1. Small Group Walking Tour

For newcomers to the city, intimate small-group walking tours provide an excellent opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of Girona’s layout without incurring significant expenses associated with traditional tours.

Positioned like a fortress above the rivers, Girona is an impressive walled city rich in historical and cultural attractions that are most enriching when experienced with a local guide.

With its stunning cathedrals, charming ethnic neighborhoods, and narrow medieval streets, this three-hour tour encompasses many of the city’s essential landmarks.

Participants will benefit from insightful commentary from their guide, enjoy some physical activity, and identify locations for further exploration at their convenience.

2. Jewish Heritage Guided City Tour and Museum Visit

Although not as renowned as Jewish neighborhoods in other European cities, Girona’s Jewish Quarter possesses a vibrant cultural significance that has sustained a flourishing Jewish community for generations.

This three-hour mid-morning tour commences from a conveniently central point, where participants will embark on an exploration of the city’s key attractions related to Jewish culture and history.

The excursion includes a guided visit to the Museum of Jewish History and the residences of notable historical figures from the city.

All costs except for meals, beverages, and transportation to and from accommodations are included.

3. Game of Thrones Small Group Tour

Engage in a captivating exploration of the filming locations used in the popular series Game of Thrones while in Girona.

This tour includes the guidance of an accredited expert familiar with the nuances of Game of Thrones. Participants will enjoy exclusive behind-the-scenes insights into notable sites easily recognizable from the series.

The itinerary starts at St. Marti’s stairs and continues to the Jewish Quarter, Claveria Street, and the Cathedral of Santa Maria, where attendees will uncover local history interwoven with narratives from this immensely successful medieval fantasy series.

Each tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours and involves a moderate amount of walking.

4. Private History Tour

For enthusiasts of history, culture, and exceptional architecture, Girona is one of Spain’s finest cities to explore.

Originally established by the Iberians, the city retains traces of the diverse cultures that have contributed to its rich tapestry over the centuries.

A highlight is the 15th-century cathedral, renowned for possessing one of the longest unsupported arches globally, which majestically towers over the skyline, serving as a focal point of this tour.

Additional points of interest include the neighborhoods with their colorful homes lining the river and the Gomez Bridge.

Tours occur on foot and commence from a central location.

5. Girona Highlights Scooter Tour

The narrow streets and significant elevation changes in Girona make it ideally suited for exploration by scooter.

No prior experience is necessary, as an orientation session is included to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Within just a few hours, the tour navigates several of the city’s prominent attractions, both historical and modern.

Highlights of the tour feature the Jewish Quarter, the Cathedral, breathtaking elevated views along the rivers, and peaceful routes with minimal traffic.

Scooter tours are offered in both English and Spanish, starting from a central meeting location.

6. 2-Hour Walking Tour with Optional Cathedral Entrance

This two-hour walking tour encompasses various historical sites, including the Monastery of St. Pere de Galligants, the Arabic Baths, the Jewish Quarter, and Cathedral Square.

Despite the diverse attractions included in the itinerary, the pace is flexible and can be adapted to a standard or leisurely tempo, allowing for an optional visit to the cathedral.

The cathedral features one of the largest naves globally, second only to that of St. Peter’s Cathedral in the Vatican. From the heights of the Jewish Quarter, participants will enjoy unobstructed views of the rivers.

7. Dalí Museum and Girona Small Group Tour

Escaping the urban environment for a few hours allows for a refreshing perspective on the region.

This eight-hour tour primarily focuses on the life and work of the renowned surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, who was born and raised in Figueres, where a museum and theater dedicated to his legacy can be found.

Following a two-hour guided museum visit, participants will return to Girona for a leisurely lunch, succeeded by a three-hour walking tour showcasing the city’s most iconic landmarks.

8. Besalú, Volcanos and Banyoles Lake

For those with a brief attention span, combination tours present an excellent opportunity to engage fully and maximize the value of limited travel resources.

These eight-hour excursions seamlessly integrate aspects of history, culture, and nature, providing guests the chance to escape the usual throngs often found at urban attractions.

Before departing Girona, participants will explore the Jewish Quarter, subsequently heading to Besalú and La Garrotxa Natural Park.

This region is characterized by impressive cliffs, quaint villages, and breathtaking views of Catalonia’s largest lake.

9. Girona Tour

Previous visitors to Girona have likened their exploration of its ancient streets to a significant journey back in time.

This 90-minute guided experience allows participants to delve into the city’s historical, cultural, and architectural heritage alongside their guide.

In under two hours, attendees will familiarize themselves with Girona’s layout and visit several key sites, including Sant Feliu Church and the Cathedral of St. Mary of Girona.

This tour also includes skip-the-line access to the Girona History Museum and the St. Pere de Galligants Monastery.

10. Hot Air Balloon Flight with a Catalan Breakfast

Experiencing a hot air balloon ride can be extraordinary, especially when visiting a unique and exotic location like Girona.

For those unfazed by altitude, this hot air balloon adventure over Costa Brava guarantees a truly unforgettable experience.

While airborne, participants will revel in unparalleled tranquility with magnificent views of nearby attractions such as Rosas Bay, the Medes Islands, and the expansive stretches of the Empordà coast along the Mediterranean Sea.

Departing in the morning from the nearby village of Colomers, the experience concludes with a leisurely traditional Catalan breakfast.

11. Private Small-Group Walking Tour from Barcelona

Girona is replete with historical sites, and this small-group walking tour offers access to many of its most remarkable attractions.

Due to its location at the confluence of four rivers, the city is celebrated for its bridges, Gothic cathedrals, Arab Baths, and the endlessly intriguing Jewish Quarter.

With a limit of just seven guests, this tour ensures that participants can benefit from the guide’s focused attention as they learn about the significance and history of the sites they visit.

Depending on individual preferences and energy levels, tours can be extended to incorporate a wine tasting and late lunch in Girona prior to returning to Barcelona.

12. Witches and Ghosts Tour

The ancient city of Girona is steeped in myths of witches, ghosts, ghouls, and gargoyles, which are the primary focus of this 90-minute tour.

Commencing at the Plaça de la Independència, the tour includes stops at various attractions with captivating histories, such as the Cathedral of Santa María.

While renowned for its expansive Gothic nave, this Cathedral also features numerous imposing towers where a variety of mythological figures and gargoyle representations reside.

Beyond historical figures, guests will explore tales of the supernatural and receive valuable recommendations on additional attractions to visit after the tour concludes.

13. Small Group Jewish History Tour of Girona and Besalú

Among the city’s most frequented neighborhoods, Girona’s historic Jewish Quarter houses the Museum of Jewish History.

This small-group tour provides insight into the challenges faced by Jews in the city from the medieval period onwards.

Excursions include visits to various synagogues alongside a journey to the nearby village of Besalú.

Visitors to Besalú will navigate its ancient streets, interact with locals, explore numerous historical sites, and browse market stalls offering local crafts and artwork.

Beginning early, these tours also include transportation from and to accommodations in Girona.

14. Game of Thrones Walking Tour

For those who prefer a leisurely morning before experiencing Girona’s attractions, the later afternoon Game of Thrones walking tour offers an excellent option.

After meeting their guide, participants can explore the city’s historical background before visiting several filming locations of the acclaimed television series.

This tour begins in Old Town and features attractions such as the Stairs Sant Martí Sacosta, the Jewish Quarter, the Monastery Sant Pere de Galligants, and the Arab Baths.

Admission to the Monastery and baths is included, along with the expertise of a professional local guide.

15. Costa Brava Coastal Walk and Snorkeling from Barcelona

For individuals staying in Barcelona, a visit to Costa Brava provides a perfect opportunity to explore the wonders of the great outdoors.

Costa Brava is home to some of the nation’s most breathtaking stretches of Mediterranean coastline. This tour features a leisurely hike, followed by time for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling in the brilliant turquoise waters.

The area encompasses charming villages, ancient pine forests, and picturesque beaches that receive minimal tourist traffic.

This tour includes a light lunch and refreshments while offering the possibility to observe an array of fish and marine life along the rocky shores.