Itineraries for Your Trip to Girona
3 Days in Girona for First Timers
With its inland location, Girona often escapes the attention of travelers exploring all the wonderful coastal destinations of Catalonia, such as Barcelona. For me, it was some photos of the riverfront that first brought it to my attention, and learning that I’d seen the city in Game of Thrones that made it a must-visit.
My first time in Girona didn’t disappoint, getting lost among its medieval alleys and admiring landmarks from its city walls. And your three days in Girona can be just as memorable if you know where to start your planning. Here is a 3-day Girona itinerary for first timers that shows you what to do for a great travel experience.
Dress in layers outside of summer, as mornings and evenings can be cool.
If you only have time for one thing, take a moment to stop and enjoy the city’s riverfront views.
Jump straight to discovering the best things to do in Girona for first timers on day one, and head to the old town and the preserved Jewish Quarter. On your way, take in the views along the Onyar River before embarking on a walking tour of Girona’s medieval highlights, such as the Passeig de la Muralla and Girona Arab Baths.
Slow down after lunch to focus on some must-see Girona attractions that warrant a longer look. Tour the impressive Girona Cathedral and learn more about the city’s Jewish heritage at the Jewish History Museum, before an evening of wine and tapas.
Switch gears on day two and explore other parts of Girona beyond its historical center. Take a walk around the modern downtown of Girona to see the bustling Mercat del Lleó market or step into the history of film at the Museu del Cinema.
Return to Barri Vell, Girona’s old town, in the afternoon to catch any attractions you missed the prior day. Tour the palace that now hosts the Girona Art Museum, across from the cathedral, or head to the Museu d'Arqueologia de Catalunya to see the beautiful medieval monastery that it calls home.
The benefit of spending 3 days in Girona for first timers is that you have time to explore Catalonia more widely on day trips. Travel to seaside villages of the Costa Brava, such as beautiful Cadaqués or Llafranc, while making sure to stop at Figueres for a dose of culture at its Dalí Theatre-Museum.
Touring the countryside lets you soak up more than scenery, with the vineyards of L'Empordà dotting the region. Take a stroll among olive groves and grapevines, before enjoying a sampling of local produce paired with some grenache, the signature red wine of Catalonia.
