Day Trip to Girona from Barcelona: Complete Guide + Tips

Girona is definitely worth visiting for a day, especially if you’re already based in Barcelona. 

aIt’s just 40 minutes away by high-speed train, which makes it one of the easiest day trips from Barcelona and offers a totally different feel from the big city. 

The medieval center is very cute and quaint with narrow streets, stone staircases, and historic landmarks like the Girona Cathedral and Arab Baths. 

You can enjoy a relaxed lunch in a quiet plaza, try some local dishes, and stroll along the colorful houses by the Onyar river. 

And if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, you’ll recognize several filming locations as you explore this classic Catalonian town.

I personally took the high-speed Renfe train and I’d highly recommend this option because these trains are a lot more efficient and only take around 40 minutes.

Tickets can be purchased directly on the Renfe website.  You can also purchase tickets on Omio, which is a third-party booking site that is a bit more user-friendly.

Trains leave from the Barcelona-Sants station (the main train station in Barcelona) and there are usually around 10 departures per day.

Ticket prices for the high-speed trains to Girona start at around €13.90 each way.  

Make sure to look for the Ave or Avant trains that are around 40 minutes in duration because the search results also list some slower regional trains.

You’ll definitely want to book your tickets in advance because these trains have assigned seats and can fill up quickly.

Tip: Download the Renfe app to check schedules and purchase tickets ahead of your trip.

Alternatively, if you’re looking for a cheaper option, you can also take the regional Rodalies trains from Barcelona to Girona, but these typically take around 1.5 hours each way.

The R11 trains leave from the Barcelona-Sants or the Passeig de Gracia stations in central Barcelona.

Tickets cost around €7.40 each way and there are departures roughly every hour.  Tickets can be purchased from the orange automated machines directly at the station.

You can also download the Renfe Cercanias app to check routes and schedules.

Another option to get from Barcelona to Girona is to take the bus but it doesn’t really make much sense because it costs just as much as the high-speed train and takes almost 2 hours.

Sagales buses depart from the Estacio Nord station in Barcelona.  Tickets can be purchased on Omio.

If you have a rental car, another option is to drive from Barcelona to Girona, which would give you more flexibility and the option to make stops along the way.

It’s a fairly easy drive and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes.  There are several paid parking lots and garages in downtown Girona.  

If you’re looking for the most hassle-free way to get to Girona from Barcelona, booking a tour is the best option. 

There are several guided tours available, which include round-trip transportation from Barcelona, along with a guide to show you the sights.

There are also many Game of Thrones walking tours, which is a fun option if you’re a fan of the show.

Here are some of the top-rated Girona tours from Barcelona:

• From Barcelona: ‘Game Of Thrones’ Small Group Tour in Girona
• Girona & Costa Brava Small-Group Tour with Pickup from Barcelona
• From Barcelona: Girona, Game of Thrones Tour

Girona Cathedral is a massive cathedral that dominates the Girona skyline and is one of the most important religious buildings in Catalonia. 

It’s known for having the widest Gothic nave in the world and was used as a filming location for Game of Thrones. 

It’s the scene where Jaime Lannister rides his horse up the steps to save Marjorie from atonement. 

Entry is free, and the interior is just as impressive as the exterior. Don’t miss the views from the front steps.

Located right next to the cathedral, Sant Feliu Basilica is smaller but full of history. 

It was Girona’s main church before the cathedral was built and holds the remains of several early Christian martyrs. 

The church has a mix of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, which makes it an interesting stop if you’re into history or architecture.

Also known as Pont de les Peixateries Velles, the Eiffel Bridge is bright red bridge that was designed by Gustave Eiffel just before he built the Eiffel Tower. 

It’s one of the most recognizable spots in Girona and a popular photo location thanks to the colorful houses that line the river. 

It connects the old town with the newer part of the city and offers a great view of the Onyar River.

Girona’s old town is full of narrow stone alleys, hidden staircases, and medieval charm. 

The Jewish Quarter, known as El Call, is one of the best-preserved in Europe and dates back to the 12th century. 

It’s easy to get lost here, but that’s part of the fun. Just take your time wandering and exploring the side streets.

Girona’s Arab Baths are Romanesque-style baths that were inspired by Muslim bathhouses and date back to the 12th century. 

You can tour the interior for just €3, though they’re not functioning baths.  It’s more of a historical site to see how they were used. 

The structure is well-preserved, and it was a Game of Thrones filming location from Arya’s scenes in Braavos.

Girona was used as a major filming location in Season 6 of Game of Thrones, standing in for both Braavos and King’s Landing. 

Here are a few places you’ll recognize from the show:

• Girona Cathedral: Used for the Great Sept of Baelor, where Jaime Lannister rides his horse up the steps to save Marjorie from atonement.

• Arab Baths: Appears in the Braavos scenes with Arya Stark, including the moment she hides from the Waif.

• Pujada de Sant Domènec: One of the steep staircases in front of Sant Marti de Girona church where Arya is seen running through a market of Braavos.

• Jewish Quarter: Used throughout Arya’s Braavos storyline for various chase and street scenes.

• Plaça dels Jurats: Filming site for outdoor theatrical performances in Braavos.

Tip: If you want a more in-depth experience, consider booking a guided Game of Thrones walking tour.  They’ll take you to all the top filming locations and show you videos from the show for comparison.

Girona’s medieval walls were originally built by the Romans and later expanded in the Middle Ages. 

Today, you can walk along the top of them for panoramic views of the city and surrounding hills. 

A good place to start is behind the cathedral, where you can climb up and wander around the gardens and stone walkways.

Xuixo (pronounced “shu-shu”) is a flaky, sugar-coated pastry filled with crema or other flavors like chocolate or pistachio. 

The one I tried was served cold, which was unexpected but still delicious! 

You can find them at many bakeries in the Old Town–Oriell 1887 and El Xuixo de Can Castelló are two popular options. 

It’s a classic pastry from Girona and definitely worth trying.

Rocambolesc Gelateria is a creative gelato shop run by Jordi Roca, the pastry chef of the Michelin-starred El Celler de Can Roca. 

The flavors and toppings are unlike anything you’ll find at a typical ice cream shop. 

I had the strawberry sorbet with caramelized sesame seeds, white chocolate, and strawberry sauce, and they even had one topped with cotton candy. 

Legend has it that kissing the butt of this tiny lioness statue will ensure your return to Girona. 

It’s much smaller in person than it looks in photos, and you’ll find it here on a column near the Sant Feliu Basilica. 

Personally, I couldn’t bring myself to kiss it for sanitary reasons, but it’s a weird Girona tradition that draws tourists.

Plaza de la Independencia is central square and one of the liveliest spots in Girona, surrounded by historic buildings and full of restaurants and cafes. 

It reminded me a bit of Plaça Reial in Barcelona. 

It’s a nice place to grab a drink, people-watch, or just take a short break from sightseeing.

Girona has several interesting museums depending on what you’re into. 

The Girona Art Museum and the Museum of Jewish History are two of the most popular. 

Both offer great insight into the city’s past and are good options if you’re looking to get out of the sun or rain for a bit.

You’ll find lots of small shops and boutiques in the old town selling souvenirs, local foods, handmade crafts, and more. 

I saw stores offering everything from turrones and artisanal chocolate to trendy clothes and Girona-themed gifts. 

It’s a great way to support local businesses and bring something unique home.

If you’re looking for a lunch spot in Barcelona, here are a few recommendations:

• El Celler de Can Roca: I have to mention this world-famous restaurant because it has three Michelin stars and is often ranked among the best in the world. It’s incredibly hard to get into, so if you really want to go there, you’ll need to make a reservation about a year in advance.

• Taverna d’El Foment: I ate here and really liked it. They have a nice outdoor patio and serve reasonably priced Catalan food with good portions.

• Casa Marieta: A more historic spot in the city that’s been around since 1892. It’s a popular choice for traditional local dishes in a classic setting.

• Vermuteria Lola: I stopped here for a vermouth and loved the atmosphere. It’s located in a fun and lively square, and while I probably wouldn’t eat here, it’s a great place to relax with a drink.

I’d recommend spending around 6 hours in Girona, or longer if you want to take your time. 

I was there for just over 5 hours and felt a little rushed, especially toward the end. 

While the city isn’t huge, giving yourself extra time allows you to wander through the old town, stop for photos, and enjoy a relaxed lunch. 

It’s a much nicer experience when you’re not watching the clock.

Follow these tips to make the most of your Girona day trip from Barcelona:

• Take the high-speed train: The high-speed Ave or Avant trains from Barcelona Sants get you to Girona in just 40 minutes and are the fastest and most comfortable option.

• Book your tickets in advance: The high speed trains have assigned seats and can fill up, especially during peak travel times. It’s best to book round-trip tickets ahead of time to get the schedule you want. Prices can also go up when the trains are more full.

• Download the Renfe app: Download the Renfe app before your trip, which makes it easy to book, manage, and store your tickets on your phone.

• Give yourself enough time to wander: Girona is a city best explored on foot, and you’ll want time to stroll through the old town without feeling rushed.

• Try the xuixo pastry: This local treat is a must when visiting Girona, and you’ll find it in many bakeries around town.

• Book a walking tour ahead of time: If you’re interested in a guided experience and don’t want to miss the top sights, be sure to book a guided Girona walking tour or a Game of Thrones walking tour ahead of time to secure your spot.

• Bring sunscreen and a fan: There’s not a ton of shade in the city, and it can get hot, especially in the warmer months. Pack sunscreen and an electronic hand-fan to stay cool.

Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about a day trip from Barcelona to Girona:

I hope this guide helped you feel more prepared for a day trip to Girona from Barcelona!

It’s one of the easiest day trips you can take from Barcelona, with medieval streets, historic landmarks, and great food all within walking distance. 

If you want to plan it yourself, I recommend taking the high-speed Barcelona to Girona train for the quickest and most comfortable experience. 

Or if you prefer something more hands-off, booking a guided tour is the easiest way to see the highlights without worrying about logistics.

I hope you enjoy your time in Girona–it’s a really great way to experience another side of Catalonia!

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