Girona Spain Living & Relocation Guide 2026

Overview of Living in Girona

Girona is a historic provincial capital in northeastern Catalonia, situated at the confluence of the Onyar, Ter, Güell, and Galligants rivers. Famous for the pastel-colored hanging houses reflected in the Onyar River, the world’s widest Gothic nave in the Girona Cathedral, and one of Europe’s best-preserved medieval Jewish quarters (El Call), Girona has also gained global status as the world’s premier training and living hub for professional endurance cyclists.

Neighborhood Guide: Barri Vell to Modern Districts

• Barri Vell (Old Town): The fortified historic quarter bounded by ancient Carolingian and medieval stone walls (Passeig de la Muralla), offering cobblestone pedestrian streets, artisan boutiques, specialty coffee cafes, and historic stone apartments.
• El Mercadal: The 19th-century commercial district on the west bank of the Onyar River, centered around the covered Mercat del Lleó, Plaça de la Independència, and retail shopping.
• Eixample & Devesa: Modern residential districts bordering the Parc de la Devesa (Catalonia’s largest urban park, planted with 2,500 giant plane trees), offering contemporary apartments and schools.

High-Speed Rail to Barcelona (38 Minutes) & France

From Girona Railway Station, Renfe AVE, Avant, and TGV high-speed trains reach Barcelona-Sants in just 38 minutes, making day-trips and hybrid commuting effortless. Direct high-speed trains also run north across the French border to Perpignan, Montpellier, Lyon, and Paris. Girona-Costa Brava Airport (GRO) provides low-cost European flight routes.

Essential Girona Travel & Living Guides

• Spain Train Travel Guide — High-speed rail ticketing between Girona, Barcelona, and Madrid.
• Cost of Living in Spain — Housing and daily living budgets in Catalonia.
• Best Places to Live in Spain — Girona’s cycling community and expat quality of life.
• Spanish Wine Regions Guide — Empordà DO wine region on Girona’s doorstep.

What Girona is Famous For

Onyar River Pastel Houses, Jewish Quarter (El Call), Girona Cathedral & Cycling Capital

Top Neighborhoods for Expats in Girona

Barri Vell, Mercadal, Eixample, Devesa, Montjuïc, Santa Eugènia

Cost of Living Breakdown in Girona (2026)

• 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center): €800/month
• 2-Bedroom Apartment (City Center): €1,100/month
• Average Winter Temperature: 11°C
• Average Summer Temperature: 30°C

Attractions & Sights in Girona

Local Experiences & Gastronomy in Girona