To speak about Girona essentials, at firts we need to say that Catalonia is a territory full of natural and historical spaces worth knowing and visiting. Therefore, each of its cities and towns have wonderful attractions that are worth discovering.
In Orientam Tour & Guides know the importance of showing the best of every bit of this region. For this reason, they offer a wonderful tourist tour through essential places of Girona. Really, one day is very little to get the most out of Girona. However, during your visit there are places that you cannot lose sight of.
Which are? Well, if you’ve already packed your bags and need a short virtual tour before discovering Girona, you’re in the right place. Right now, we will show you the 10 places you have to know when visiting Girona. Actually, this count is quite difficult because there is a lot to see in Girona. However, we select the best for you. So, without further ado, it’s time to start this fun journey.
1. The Onyar Houses
It is impossible to talk about essential places in Girona without mentioning The Onyar Houses. The Onyar Houses are a group of modernist buildings located in the city of Girona. They are located on the banks of the Onyar River and are one of the main tourist spots in the city.
These houses are considered as an example of Catalan modernism. They were built between 1884 and 1888 and are designed by the architect Rafael Masó. Basically, Masó sought to create an architectural complex that would integrate harmoniously with the natural environment of the Onyar River.
This beautiful tourist attraction is popular for its colorful facade. Generally, it is characterized by the use of ceramics and decorative tiles. On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that each house has its own design and color, which makes them unique and different.
In addition to its architectural value, The Onyar Houses are also an important cultural and tourist reference point in Girona. Many of them have been restored and can be visited to learn more about the history. It is also possible to take a boat trip on the Onyar river to admire the views of the houses.
2. Cathedral
Girona Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona, is a Roman Catholic cathedral located in the city of Girona. To tell the truth, it is one of the most important architectural and historical landmarks of the city.
It also features a mix of architectural styles, including Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque. Generally, the Cathedral is known for its impressive cloister, the widest Gothic nave in the world as well as its famous tapestries. It is a popular tourist attraction and also serves as an active place of worship. Without a doubt, it is one of the essential places in Girona.
3. Arab baths
The city’s Arab baths are actually Roman and were built during the 12th century. Actually, these bathrooms are inspired by both Roman and Arab designs. On the other hand, it should be noted that the baths remained open until the fourteenth century.
Currently, visitors can walk through the different spaces and rooms. The entrance hall with its central pool and slender ornate columns is the most impressive.
4. Eiffel Bridge
The Palanques Vermelles Bridge is also known as the Eiffel Bridge. This architectural work was built in 1827 by Gustave Eiffel. In fact, this event occurred just before the construction of his most famous work, the Eiffel Tower.
Located above the Onyar River, it’s a great place to get some photos of the colorful buildings in the old town. The view is wonderful at any time. Without a doubt, you cannot miss the opportunity to discover one of the best unmissable places in Girona.
If you want to have a memorable photograph, don’t miss this bridge on your tour. Actually, it has everything you need to make you remember the experience as one of the best of your life.
5. Museums
For a relatively small city, Girona has a significant number of museums. In addition, it has several art galleries. Here are some of the museums that we believe you should not miss:
- The Museum of Jewish History: The museum is made up of 11 exhibits that explore the history and culture of the region’s Jewish community, which was once one of the largest in the area.
- Girona Art Museum: it has the largest collection of Romanesque and Gothic art in the region. In fact, it is one of the largest museums in Girona.
- The Cinema Museum: This museum covers the history of cinema and is filled with vintage posters, films and film equipment. It also hosts regular events and movie screenings. Undoubtedly, one of the essential places in Girona for moviegoers
- The Girona Archeology Museum: This is one of the oldest museums in the region and has a collection of archaeological finds from prehistoric times to the Middle Ages. Although small, it goes into some good detail about the area.
6. Monastery of Saint Daniel
Founded in the 11th century, this monastery is located on the outskirts of the town. This place was created with the intention of establishing a convent in the region. Although the abbey is no longer in use, the church and cloister can still be visited. Inside, you’ll find the tomb of Saint Daniel, rumored to house the remains of the saint himself.
The architecture is a mixture of Romanesque and Gothic, with additions from the 12th and 15th centuries. The monastery is surrounded by the Valley of Sant Daniel. Overall, we’re talking about a lush green space with lots of shade and picturesque natural springs. For all this and much more, it is one of the essentials in Girona.
7. The old wall of Girona City
These ancient walls date from Girona’s medieval past. In the first instance, they were partially destroyed in the 19th century to make way for the expansion of the city.
Fortunately, many of the missing pieces have been recovered or reconstructed in recent times. Walking on them offers an unrivaled view of both the city and the rolling hills of the countryside. In addition, the tour is completely free.
8. The Rambla of Freedom
One of the essential things to do in Girona is to walk along the Rambla de la Libertad and have a drink in one of its many terraces. As a meeting point for locals, it is one of the best places to have an aperitif. In addition, it is ideal for socializing with the locals and enjoying the gastronomy of the city.
It runs parallel to the Onyar river, and it is noticeable that it is a busy commercial street. On the other hand, it stands out with beautiful arcades and several modernist buildings. For example, the Norat house.
Beginning your walk you will pass by several emblematic buildings of the city. Among the most important we have the Town Hall, the Fontana D’or and the Iglesia del Carmen. Then, you will arrive at the Pont de San Agustín and the Plaza de la Independencia, another lively place with neoclassical arcades.
9. Besalú
Among the 10 best places to visit in Girona, Besalú stands out. Without a doubt, Besalú is listed as one of the most beautiful places in the province of Girona. The city is a medieval town full of culture and history. Therefore, it is an ideal getaway from the city of Girona (and even from Barcelona).
Its streets have been the scene of many movies and series. For example, some scenes from the movie “El Perfume”, inspired by the novel by Patrick Süskind. Likewise, the third season of the science fiction series “Westworld” (HBO) was filmed here.
Since 1996, the town has been classified as one of the best-preserved historical-artistic complexes in Catalonia.
10. Les Ribes del Ter and La Devesa Parks
Not far from the center of the city of Girona is the Parque de la Dehesa. This beautiful place is known as the green lung of Girona. It has an area of more than 40 hectares, which makes it the largest urban park in Catalonia.
Simply the perfect place to disconnect and relax in its gardens. In addition, it is perfect for playing sports or simply taking a walk in the shade of its hundred-year-old trees. In fact, a particularity is the number of banana trees. Actually, there are more than 2,000.
Likewise, the park is the scene of events organized by the City Council, concerts and children’s activities.
Don’t know about Girona essentials?
If after the above, you still have questions about what to see in Girona, go to Orientam Tour & Guides. On this website, you will find all the wonderful tours that can be done in this wonderful Catalan city. In general, Girona has a wide variety of tourist attractions. Also, there are options to stay and various restaurants.
You will not regret visiting these 10 essential places in Girona that we mentioned before. In fact, you will feel that the time you spend is not enough to enjoy all the attractions of Girona. If so, feel free to come back as many times as you want. In Girona, there is always a lot to do. Get in touch with us and get your Tour through this wonderful city.
