Girona holidays

How to reach Girona

• Flight time: From Dublin and other major Irish airports, direct flights to Girona typically take around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Several low-cost carriers operate seasonal services, especially during the summer.

• Transfer time: Girona-Costa Brava Airport is just 12km from the city centre. The airport bus takes approximately 25 minutes to reach Girona’s central bus and train station. Taxis are slightly quicker, averaging 15 minutes depending on traffic.

• Price: The airport bus is the most budget-friendly option at around €3 for a one-way ticket. A taxi will usually cost between €25 and €30.

Weather and best time to visit Girona

Girona’s Mediterranean climate means mild winters and warm, sunny summers – making it a great destination most of the year. The best time to visit depends on your plans:

• April to June brings ideal weather for sightseeing and walking the city’s medieval walls, with temperatures between 15°C and 25°C. May is especially popular thanks to the city’s stunning flower festival, Temps de Flors.

• July and August are the hottest months, with temperatures reaching 30°C or more. If you're combining your Girona stay with a beach trip to the Costa Brava, this is the perfect time – just be prepared for crowds.

• September to November sees the weather cool gradually from 25°C to around 15°C. It's a quieter time with fewer tourists, making it great for exploring the old town and enjoying the local cuisine.

• December to March is the off-season, with cooler temperatures (5°C to 15°C) and more rainfall. It’s quieter and more peaceful – ideal for those seeking a cultural break or a base for day trips to the Pyrenees.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: Both Catalan and Spanish are official languages in Girona. While English is understood in most tourist areas, learning a few basic phrases in Catalan or Spanish will go a long way.

• Local habits and customs: Shops often close for siesta between 2 pm and 5 pm. Dinner tends to be eaten late, usually after 9 pm. Tipping isn't expected but is appreciated – rounding up the bill or leaving 5–10% is the norm.

• Currency: Spain uses the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and credit and debit cards are accepted nearly everywhere.

• Getting around: Girona is compact and easy to explore on foot. Public buses are available and cost about €1.50 per ride. Bikes can be rented if you’d prefer to explore the city or nearby cycling routes.

• Electricity and plug types: Spain uses 220V electricity with Type C and F two-pin plugs. Travellers from Ireland will need a plug adaptor.

• Time zone: Girona is on Central European Time (CET), which is 1 hour ahead of GMT, and observes Daylight Saving Time.

Best things to do in Girona

Girona is a lovely city in Catalonia that combines history, culture and stunning scenery. This undiscovered gem is a perfect destination for either a quick getaway or a longer holiday.

Viewpoints and panoramas

• Cathedral steps: Beautiful stairs lead up to Girona Cathedral, where you can enjoy stunning views of the city's old buildings and medieval walls.

• Passeig de la Muralla (Ancient City Walls): Girona can be admired from a number of vantage points along the city walls, which are in remarkably good shape.

• Sant Feliu Bridge: From the famous Sant Feliu Bridge, you can get a great view of the picturesque Onyar River and the multi-coloured fronts of the old houses.

The best districts

• Barri Vell: Winding alleyways, historic buildings and hidden squares characterise this charming old area. Noteworthy attractions are the Arab Baths and the Jewish Quarter.

• Eixample: This more modern part of Girona is renowned for its broad avenues, retail opportunities and local eateries.

• Mercadal: Just across the river from Barri Vell, here you'll find the lively Independence Square, an ideal spot for people-watching and sampling the cuisine of neighbourhood cafes.

Parks and gardens

• Devesa Park: Girona's largest urban park, filled with tall plane trees, is ideal for a leisurely stroll, picnic or a morning run.

• Jardins dels Alemanys (German Gardens): These attractive gardens, which were once part of the city walls, provide a calming haven from where one can admire wonderful views of the city and its environs.

• Rambla de la Llibertat (Freedom Boulevard): Though more of a promenade than a park, this tree-lined avenue is perfect for a relaxed stroll among the cafés and shops.

Historical monuments

• Girona Cathedral: Witness the grandeur of this Gothic cathedral's nave and facade – a sight not to be missed. Stop by the Treasury Museum while you're there.

• Sant Pere de Galligants (Saint Peter of Galligants): A beautiful Romanesque monastery that now houses the Archaeological Museum of Catalonia.

• Banys Arabs (Arab Baths): These well-preserved medieval baths offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's Moorish past.

• El Call: Explore the Jewish Quarter, one of the best preserved in Europe, with its narrow alleys and ancient buildings.

Day trips in the area

• Figueres: A visit to the Dalí Theatre-Museum, which is devoted to the surrealist artist Salvador Dalí, is an interesting experience. Discover our best deals on hotels in Figueres to spend a few days in the city.

• Besalú: This medieval town is known for its beautifully preserved bridge, historic buildings and charming atmosphere. It should be a must when visiting Girona.

• Costa Brava: The Costa Brava is a lovely area not far from Girona, which is home to beautiful beaches, turquoise waters and charming seaside towns such as Tossa de Mar and Lloret de Mar.

Activities for families in Girona

Girona and its environs is a family-friendly destination that offers plenty of activities to keep both children and adults entertained.

• Water parks: There are several water parks within reach of Girona. Water World in nearby Lloret de Mar is one of the most popular, offering various water slides, wave pools and children's areas.

• Playgrounds: Devesa Park has safe playgrounds for kids to have fun, and the open spaces here are perfect for them to let off steam, have a picnic or ride a bike.

• Educational attractions: Girona Art Museum offers interactive exhibits and activities that can engage children and spark their interest in art and history.

• Boat trips: Head to the coast and take a boat trip to explore hidden coves, swim in the clear waters and enjoy the beautiful Mediterranean scenery.

• Cycling tours: Girona is a cycling hotspot, with various routes suitable for all levels. Families can rent bikes and explore the countryside on safe, designated paths or the city's well-maintained bike paths.

• Kayaking: Families can enjoy a peaceful paddle on the Ter River, which flows through Girona. It's a great way to see the city from a different perspective.

Free things to do in Girona

Holidays to Girona don't have to break the bank; there are plenty of free activities available to help make your visit a memorable one.

• Free historic sites: The Passeig de la Muralla offers free access to one of Girona's best free experiences, the city walls. Wandering around the old town's narrow streets uncovers an array of well-preserved medieval buildings, all free to marvel at. The highlight is Cathedral Square, where the architecture and ambience of the square is an attraction in itself without having to pay to enter the cathedral.

• Girona Market: It's free to soak up the atmosphere and admire vibrant stalls brimming with local produce and crafts at this local market, held every Tuesday and Saturday. And you might even get the chance to sample complimentary foodie bits.

• Beach trips: The Costa Brava is just a short drive away, offering some of the most beautiful beaches in Spain. Spend a day swimming, sunbathing and exploring the coastal towns.

• Hiking: The countryside surrounding Girona offers numerous hiking trails that are totally free to explore. Routes like the Sant Miquel trail offer amazing views.

Wellness in Girona

• Spas and wellness centres: Aqva Gerunda Banys Romans provide a luxurious spa experience with thermal baths, massages and other treatments. Nearby towns like Caldes de Malavella are famous for their thermal waters and spas, perfect for a day of relaxation.

Local dishes in Girona

One of the great delights of Girona holidays is indulging in all the culinary delicacies that make it one of Catalonia's best foodie destinations. One thing's for sure: you will eat well!

Some typical dishes

• Escudella i Carn d'Olla: A hearty Catalan stew made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and pasta or rice, perfect for a comforting meal.

• Pa amb Tomaquet: Bread rubbed with ripe tomatoes and drizzled with olive oil, often served with cured ham or cheese.

• Coca de Recapte: A savoury pastry topped with roasted vegetables and sometimes sardines, perfect for a quick and tasty snack.

Tapas dishes

• Patatas Bravas: These crispy potatoes served with a spicy tomato sauce and aioli are a staple in Girona's tapas bars.

• Padrón Peppers: Small green peppers fried and sprinkled with sea salt; beware, some can be quite spicy!

Meat dishes

• Botifarra: A traditional Catalan sausage, often grilled and served with white beans or aioli.

• Canelons: Pasta tubes filled with meat or vegetables, covered in béchamel sauce and baked, a popular dish during festive seasons.

Fish and seafood dishes

• Suquet de Peix: A traditional fish stew made with a variety of seafood, potatoes and a rich broth flavoured with garlic and saffron.

• Bacalla a la Llauna: A delicious and aromatic dish, salt cod is cooked with tomatoes, garlic and white wine.

Sweets and desserts

• Crema Catalana: Similar to crème brûlée, this dessert features a creamy custard base with a crispy caramelised sugar topping.

• Xuixo: This deep-fried pastry filled with custard and dusted with sugar is a local favourite in Girona.

Local drinks

• Cava: A sparkling wine from Catalonia, perfect for celebrating special occasions, often enjoyed with a meal.

• Ratafia: A traditional Catalan liqueur made from green walnuts and various herbs, offering a unique and robust flavour.