Girona
Catalonia, Spain• Population: 103,000
About Girona
A historic Catalan city brimming with medieval charm and modern vibrancy. Often called the "City of the Four Rivers" due to the Onyar, Ter, Galligants, and Güell rivers that meet here, it boasts a richly layered heritage with Roman, Moorish, Jewish, and Catalan influences. Features one of Europe's best-preserved Jewish quarters, a towering Gothic cathedral with the world's widest Gothic nave, and a labyrinth of cobbled lanes. Despite its deep history, Girona feels lively and welcoming with contemporary art installations, excellent cuisine including world-class restaurants, and serves as a gateway to both the Costa Brava coast and Pyrenees mountains.
Top Attractions in Girona
Historic Landmark
Basilica of Sant Feliu
Girona's former cathedral until the 10th century featuring Gothic architecture with a striking slender bell tower. Houses eight Roman and early medieval stone sarcophagi with intricate carvings dating back to the 3rd-4th centuries. Contains the Chapel of Saint Narcís, the city's patron saint associated with the legendary protective flies.
Girona Cathedral (Santa Maria)
Medieval cathedral famous for having the widest Gothic nave in the world (23 meters) and a monumental 90-step Baroque staircase. Houses the 11th-century Tapestry of Creation and offers panoramic city views. Mix of architectural styles from Romanesque to Baroque due to centuries of construction.
Notable Architecture
Cases de l'Onyar (Riverside Houses)
Famous colorful houses hanging over the Onyar River, painted in warm shades of ochre, yellow, orange, and pink. Best appreciated from the bridges, these houses create Girona's most iconic view. The harmonious color scheme was designed by architect Rafael Masó in the early 20th century.
Pont de les Peixateries Velles (Eiffel Bridge)
Bright red iron pedestrian bridge designed by Gustave Eiffel's company in 1877. Offers classic views of the colored Onyar River houses and serves as an emblematic photo spot. The bridge provides the quintessential Girona vista of multicolored façades with the cathedral looming behind.
Where to Stay in Girona
Luxury Hotels (5★)
AC Hotel Palau de Bellavista
Sleek modern 5-star hotel on hilltop with panoramic views. Contemporary minimalist style with rooftop pool, fine dining restaurant, and spectacular city views including cathedral and distant mountains.
Casa Cacao Hotel
Luxury boutique hotel above artisanal chocolate workshop by the Roca family. 15 spacious rooms with chocolate and botanical themes. Features rooftop terrace café with panoramic views and handcrafted chocolate treats.
More Accommodation Options
Girona offers 12 hotels across all price ranges, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly options.
Browse all hotels in Girona →Where to Eat in Girona
Bosco
Italian/Pizzeria
Stylish Italian trattoria known for Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizzas and homemade pasta. Cozy interior overlooking town hall square. Uses Italian ingredients combined with Catalan produce.
Cal Ros
Traditional Catalan
Top choice for traditional cuisine with refined touch in Old Town. Rustic-elegant setting with stone arches. Seasonal menu featuring arròs a la cassola, snail dishes, and suquet de peix fish stew.
Casa Marieta
Traditional Catalan
Historic restaurant since 1892 serving classic Catalan home-style dishes. Located on Plaça Independència with old-world atmosphere. Famous for escudella stew, canalons, sweet botifarra with apple, and crema catalana.
El Celler de Can Roca
Creative/Molecular Gastronomy
World-renowned 3-Michelin-star restaurant run by the Roca brothers. Offers an avant-garde multi-course tasting menu fusing Catalan tradition with groundbreaking creativity. Frequently rated world's best restaurant.
Federal Café
International/Brunch
Popular Australian-style café serving specialty coffee and brunch items. Bright modern space with avocado toast, eggs Benedict, pancakes, and all-day menu. Open continuously without siesta break.
India Gate
Indian/Pakistani
Popular Indian restaurant near train station serving North Indian and Pakistani dishes. Curries, biryanis, tandoori with adjustable spice levels. Accommodating with dietary needs including halal options.
6 more restaurants to explore
Where to Stay in Girona
Find the perfect place to stay in Girona. Browse hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals across the city. Use the map to find accommodations near your preferred attractions.
Tours & Activities in Girona
Quick Facts
- Region
- Catalonia
- Population
- 103,000
- Coordinates
- 41.9816°N, 2.8255°W
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Upcoming Events
Xuixo March
Annual (date varies)
Christmas Markets
Early December - January 6
Holy Week Processions (Setmana Santa)
March/April (Easter week)
Sant Jordi Day
April 23
Tempo Sota les Estrelles (Tempo Festival)
July-August