Discovering Girona
Girona is one of Catalonia's most captivating cities, a place where Roman ruins, medieval architecture, and modern Catalan culture blend seamlessly. Located approximately 100 kilometres northeast of Barcelona, Girona sits at the confluence of four rivers, with the magnificent Onyar River running through its heart. The city's colourful houses lining the riverbank, the imposing medieval walls, and the labyrinthine Jewish Quarter (Call Jueu) make it one of the most photogenic cities in Spain.
Girona gained global fame as a filming location for HBO's Game of Thrones, where its cathedral and medieval streets stood in for the city of Braavos and King's Landing. But long before the cameras arrived, Girona was a cherished destination for those in the know — food lovers drawn to its Michelin-starred restaurants, history buffs exploring its ancient quarter, and art enthusiasts visiting the Dalí Triangle of nearby Figueres and Cadaqués.
Transport Options from Barcelona
Train (AVE / Regional)
The high-speed AVE train from Barcelona Sants to Girona takes just 37 minutes and costs approximately €18-30 depending on the time of booking. Regional trains (MD) are cheaper at around €12 but take about 80 minutes. Trains are frequent, running roughly every 30-60 minutes. The main drawback is that you need to get to Barcelona Sants station first, which adds time and hassle if you are starting from the airport or your hotel.
Bus (ALSA)
ALSA operates buses from Barcelona Nord station to Girona. The journey takes approximately 90-100 minutes and costs €12-18. Buses run every 1-2 hours. This is the cheapest option but the slowest and least comfortable.
Private Transfer (Recommended)
A private transfer from Barcelona to Girona takes approximately 75 minutes by road. It offers door-to-door service — you are picked up at your hotel, the airport, or any address in Barcelona and delivered directly to your destination in Girona. This eliminates the need to navigate to the train station, wait for departures, and find your way from Girona station to your final destination.
For the Barcelona to Girona route, we offer comfortable Mercedes vehicles with professional drivers who know the route well. We also provide direct Barcelona Airport to Girona transfers for those flying in.
What to See in Girona
The Medieval Quarter (Barri Vell)
Girona's Old Quarter is one of the best-preserved medieval city centres in Europe. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, discover hidden plazas, and admire the stone architecture that dates back centuries. The Jewish Quarter (Call) is particularly atmospheric, with its winding streets and stone archways.
Game of Thrones Locations
Fans of the series will recognise the Cathedral of Girona (used for the Great Sept of Baelor), the Arab Baths (standing in for Braavos), and the stairs on Carrer de Sant Domènec. A self-guided walking tour of these locations takes about 2-3 hours and covers much of the Old Quarter.
The City Walls (Passeig de la Muralla)
Walking along the medieval walls offers panoramic views of the city, the Pyrenees in the distance, and the surrounding countryside. The walls are free to access and are spectacular at sunset.
Food Scene
Girona punches well above its weight gastronomically. It is home to El Celler de Can Roca, repeatedly voted the best restaurant in the world. Even if you cannot secure a table there, the city has dozens of excellent restaurants serving traditional Catalan cuisine, creative modern dishes, and everything in between.
Travel Tips
- Allow a full day — Girona deserves at least 6-8 hours to explore properly
- Wear comfortable shoes — the Old Quarter has steep streets and uneven cobblestones
- Visit mid-week — weekends can be crowded with day-trippers from Barcelona
- Book return transfers in advance — secure your preferred departure time
- Combine with Figueres — the Dalí Theatre-Museum is 40 minutes north of Girona
Book Your Transfer
Visiting Girona for the history, the food, or the Game of Thrones filming spots? Start the journey right with a private transfer from Barcelona. We offer direct transfers from Barcelona and from Barcelona Airport. Contact us on WhatsApp at +34691551000.