What to see in Girona: must-see places

 

How well do you know Girona? It is known as the "city of four rivers", because the Ter, Güell, Galligants and Oñar rivers flow through it. It is an all-encompassing and unique destination that will certainly impress. Steeped in history, the city still preserves much of the monumental heritage of its different inhabitants.

Are you looking forward to visiting this jewel? Read on to find out what to see in Girona!

What you really shouldn't miss

Lose yourself in the old town, one of the most unique in Europe, where three cultures mingle: Christians, Jews and Muslims who lived there together in the Middle Ages. The Sant Doménech convent, the Jewish quarter with its labyrinthine streets and the Arab baths are fine examples. You'll take a step back in time!

For your first steps in discovering the city, we recommend you start with one of the most beautiful images of Girona: the houses on the Onyar River. These houses
hang over the river that runs through the town (the Onyar), where the cathedral and Sant Feliu complete the picture behind them.

Of course, you can't miss Girona Cathedral. This architectural gem is the result of a number of superimposed styles, albeit of Romanesque origin. Strategically situated, the great Gothic nave stands out from the rest. It is the most extensive example of medieval architecture in Europe. The cathedral's famous staircase was used as a backdrop for the Game of Thrones series, and true fans will recognise many other corners of the city that also feature in the series. The cathedral houses one of the jewels of Catalan Romanesque textile art, the Tapestry of Creation, which dates back to the 11th century. This is one of the very few examples from this period.

Similarly, you can't miss El Call, the best-preserved Jewish quarter in Europe. This network of narrow cobbled streets is the perfect place to lose yourself while wandering around and, why not, sample some typical dishes in the bars. We also recommend a visit to the Arab baths near the cathedral, the city walls or the Pujada de Sant Domènec.

Did you know that Girona is also referred to as the Florence of Catalonia? But believe me, it doesn't need comparisons. A string of colourful houses line the banks of the Onyar in Girona's historic centre. The yellow, ochre, red and orange tones along the water's edge are spectacular, so get your camera ready!

Take the best photo of the many bridges crossing the river. One of them, the Peixateries Velles bridge, was designed by the famous architect Gustave Eiffel.

Gastronomy with a 'G' for Girona

Girona is ideally situated between the Pyrenees and Costa Brava. Not only does this make for all kinds of excursions from the city, but it also means that its cuisine is a truly international benchmark. Girona's gastronomy has always been linked to the combination of products from the sea and land. Despite the growing popularity of nouvelle cuisine, it has never forgotten its more traditional roots, so there's something for everyone. Before you leave, you absolutely must try the "xuixo", a pastry made from sweet fried dough and filled with cream. Gourmands will just love it! 

How to get to Girona by train? 

 It's very easy to get to Girona by train! Girona's privileged location means that it is only a stone's throw from Barcelona and the surrounding area, via the Rodalies trains. 

And if you are planning to visit Barcelona, Renfe makes it easy for you with its trains: