Looking for a break in Catalonia? Have you already visited Barcelona as a family and would you like to discover a city on a human scale, full of surprises and activities for you and your children? Visit Girona, a city steeped in history, gastronomy and charm. If you're in France, make the most of the Renfe trains.
These trains, departing from Lyon, Valence and many other towns in the south of France, will take you to Girona at high speed and in exceptional comfort.
Girona was the setting for the series Game of Thrones, and one of the city's most prized monuments is undoubtedly Girona Cathedral, a must-see since season 6 of the hit series was filmed here. There are several routes for fans of the series to follow in the footsteps of your heroes. Take a look at our article on the 10th anniversary of the series.
Monumental staircase to the Cathedral
The city has a number of interesting historical museums, including the Museu del Cinema, which traces 400 years of the history of the moving image through a private collection of cinema and pre-cinema objects, one of the most important collections in the world.
To the south of the square, opposite the cathedral, is a former 18th-century Capuchin convent, now home to the Museu d'Història (free admission for under-16s and €4 for adults), a museum on the history of the town, from prehistory to the present day, with contents divided between the main building, located in Carrer de la Força, and various places in the city that form part of the Network of Spaces of Democratic Memory, such as the bomb shelter in the Garden of Childhood, the provincial prison and the mass grave, which form an extension of the room dedicated to the Civil War.
In the incomparable setting of the former Episcopal Palace, the Girona Art Museum houses the most important collection of art from the bishopric and the province, from the Romanesque period to the dawn of the 20th century.
The best museum in the city is undoubtedly the open-air museum, i.e. the city itself, with its narrow streets and 9th-century medieval walls that line the eastern side of the old town.
You can also discover its curiosities, such as the "lioness on the column" in the Saint Félix Square, not far from the Basilica of Saint Felix. Legend has it that any Girona resident going on a trip, or any tourist wishing to return to Girona, has to kiss her behind to see good fortune smile upon them.
Girona's Arab Baths are actually housed in a Romanesque building dating from around the beginning of the 12th century and inspired by Roman public baths. The main room here is the Apodyterium, an incredibly well-preserved hall containing an octagonal swimming pool.
It's a must-see when you're visiting Girona as a family! Drop into the vestibule to read about and understand the water heating and cooling system in these 12th-century baths. A real history lesson for children and (very) grown-ups!
With a surface area of 40 hectares and over 2,500 plane trees, it is the largest park in Catalonia. Legend has it that it was Napoleon himself who, while attempting to take Girona, decided to wait until the Catalan troops holed up in the fortified town ran out of supplies and finally surrendered, and had these plane trees planted to protect men and horses from the sun… A perfect place to take a walk and relax with the family.
From fast food to Michelin-starred restaurants, Girona has over 400 places to eat.
Enjoy delicious Spanish dishes such as the famous tapas or paellas with a thousand flavours, Italian pizzas as if you were in Italy or even eat in one of the best restaurants in the world, El Celler de Can Roca, created by 3 brothers. This restaurant has been awarded 3 stars in the Michelin Guide since 2009 and can be summed up in 3 words: authenticity, generosity and hospitality.
Good to know: The Roca family opened a small hotel in Girona just over a year ago. The Casa Cacao Boutique Hotel is located in a historic building in Girona's Plaça Catalunya, with 15 warm, spacious and comfortable rooms and a splendid terrace with panoramic views of Girona's old town.
If you haven't had the chance to sample the menu at their famous restaurant or stay at their hotel, you should know that one of the three brothers in charge of the restaurant, Jordi Roca, has opened an artisanal ice cream tasting room, Rocambolesc. We'll let you find out for yourself?
Pack your bags and discover Girona with your children. Our trains are the best way to enjoy a comfortable journey with your whole family! Discover all the advantages of travelling on Renfe trains with children. Have a great trip!
Eager to hop on a train to Girona? Now you can do just that on AVE France, our international high-speed trains between France and Spain. The most comfortable, fastest and sustainable way to travel is by train! You can also take advantage of our discounts and get the best price.
Did you like our suggestions? Well, there is a lot more where that came from! Discover other original things to do in Girona with Renfe.