Girona, Spain: The Fairytale City You Need to Visit
Introduction: A Spanish Gem Hiding in Plain Sight
When people dream of Spain, they often picture Barcelona’s beaches, Madrid’s museums, or Seville’s flamenco dancers. But just an hour north of Barcelona lies a city that feels like it was lifted straight from a fairytale — Girona.
Perched along the Onyar River, Girona is a beautiful blend of medieval charm, colorful architecture, ancient walls, and vibrant local life. It’s one of those places that feels untouched by time — a city where narrow cobblestone alleys echo with history, yet the energy is young and creative.
You might recognize parts of Girona even if you’ve never been there — scenes from Game of Thrones were filmed here, thanks to its cinematic old town and majestic cathedral. But beyond its Hollywood fame, Girona is a real-life storybook city full of romance, culture, and hidden corners that capture the imagination.
So pack your curiosity (and maybe your camera), because this is your ultimate guide to discovering Girona, Spain: The Fairytale City You Need to Visit.
Chapter 1: A Glimpse Into Girona’s Timeless Past
Girona’s beauty isn’t just skin-deep — it’s built on centuries of fascinating history. The city dates back over 2,000 years, originally founded by the Romans as Gerunda. Over time, it became a strategic fortress, surviving countless invasions — from Visigoths to Moors, and later, the Franks.
Each empire left its mark, creating a rich mix of cultures, architecture, and traditions that make Girona unlike anywhere else in Spain.
The medieval old town, known as Barri Vell, still preserves this layered history — from the Roman walls to the Arab baths and the Jewish Quarter (El Call).
You’ll feel it as you wander through its maze-like streets: the scent of ancient stone, the sound of church bells, and the calm that only comes from a city that has stood still while the world around it changed.
Chapter 2: The Magical Onyar River and Its Rainbow Houses
If there’s one image that defines Girona, it’s the colorful houses that line the Onyar River. Painted in shades of yellow, orange, red, and pink, they look like something out of a watercolor painting.
These riverside homes date back centuries, and their reflection in the water creates one of Spain’s most photographed scenes. The best view? From the Eiffel Bridge (Pont de les Peixateries Velles) — yes, designed by the same Gustave Eiffel who built the Eiffel Tower in Paris!
At sunset, when the sky glows gold and the colors melt together on the river’s surface, you’ll understand why Girona feels so magical. It’s romantic, peaceful, and endlessly photogenic — a living postcard.
Chapter 3: Exploring the Old Town (Barri Vell)
The heart of Girona is its Old Town, a labyrinth of cobblestone streets, archways, and staircases that seem to climb toward the sky. Every corner hides a surprise — a secret courtyard, a centuries-old church, or a café tucked into an ancient stone building.
Start your exploration at Carrer de la Força, one of the oldest streets in the city, once the main artery of the medieval Jewish Quarter. This area, known as El Call, is one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in Europe, a place that whispers stories of the past through every narrow alleyway.
Then, make your way to Plaça de la Catedral, where the Cathedral of Saint Mary of Girona towers above everything else. Its staircase, with 90 majestic steps, is iconic — and you might recognize it as the Great Sept of Baelor from Game of Thrones.
Inside, the cathedral is just as breathtaking. It boasts the widest Gothic nave in the world, and a peaceful cloister that feels like stepping into another century.
Chapter 4: Walk the Ancient Walls (Passeig de la Muralla)
One of the best ways to see Girona is from above. The Passeig de la Muralla (Walk of the Wall) lets you do just that — it’s a trail that runs along the city’s ancient defensive walls, dating back to Roman times and expanded during the Middle Ages.
As you walk, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the city’s red rooftops, the cathedral spire, and the green hills in the distance. There are several towers you can climb for even better views — perfect for photos or just soaking in the peaceful beauty of Girona.
The best time to go is early morning or late afternoon, when the light is soft and golden. It’s quiet, free to visit, and one of the most romantic walks in all of Spain.
Chapter 5: A Taste of Girona — Culinary Heaven
Girona isn’t just a feast for the eyes — it’s a feast for your taste buds, too. The city has become one of the top culinary destinations in the world, thanks in large part to the legendary El Celler de Can Roca — a three-Michelin-star restaurant once named the best in the world.
But even if you can’t snag a reservation there, Girona’s food scene is incredible at every level.
Here are a few must-try experiences:
🍽️ Local Tapas Bars — Try pà amb tomàquet (bread with tomato), anchovies from L’Escala, and botifarra (Catalan sausage).
🍷 Catalan Wine — Especially from the nearby Empordà region, known for its crisp whites and bold reds.
🍦 Rocambolesc Gelateria — Run by the Roca brothers, this whimsical ice cream shop turns dessert into art.
☕ Cafés in the Old Town — Perfect spots to relax, people-watch, and enjoy the Mediterranean rhythm of life.
From Michelin-star dining to cozy mom-and-pop taverns, Girona celebrates food like an art form.
Chapter 6: Girona and Game of Thrones — A Real-Life Fantasy Set
If you’re a Game of Thrones fan, walking around Girona feels like stepping into Westeros. The city was used as a major filming location for Season 6 — doubling as King’s Landing, Braavos, and Oldtown.
- The Cathedral of Girona appears as the Great Sept of Baelor.
- The Arab Baths became the setting for Arya Stark’s training scenes.
- The Carrer del Bisbe Josep Cartañà served as Braavos’ narrow alleys.
Even if you’re not into fantasy series, seeing these spots in person is thrilling. The medieval architecture, dramatic staircases, and stone archways make it clear why filmmakers fell in love with Girona — it’s cinematic in every sense.
Chapter 7: The Peaceful Arab Baths (Banys Àrabs)
One of the city’s most atmospheric sites is the Arab Baths, a 12th-century structure inspired by ancient Roman and Muslim bathhouses.
Despite the name, these baths were actually built by Christians but designed in the Moorish style — proof of the cultural fusion that defines Girona’s history.
Today, you can walk through the stone columns, domed ceilings, and cool chambers, imagining what life must have been like centuries ago. The atmosphere is serene and timeless, a hidden oasis in the heart of the Old Town.
Chapter 8: Festivals, Flowers, and Local Life
Girona might look ancient, but its spirit is young and vibrant — especially during festivals.
🌸 Temps de Flors (Flower Festival) — Every May, the entire city transforms into a massive floral display. Streets, monuments, and courtyards are decorated with colorful flower installations. It’s absolutely stunning and one of the most photogenic events in Spain.
🎭 Sant Narcís Festival — Celebrated in late October, this is Girona’s biggest local festival, honoring its patron saint with music, parades, and fireworks.
🎶 Girona Jazz Festival and Cinema Festivals — Smaller but lively cultural events that showcase the city’s artistic side.
And beyond festivals, daily life in Girona is delightfully slow-paced. Locals linger over coffee, kids play in the squares, and there’s always someone strumming a guitar or painting the riverside houses.
Chapter 9: Nature, Day Trips, and Outdoor Adventures
One of Girona’s greatest advantages is its location — you’re surrounded by both mountains and the Mediterranean Sea.
🏞️ The Pyrenees are just an hour away, perfect for hiking, cycling, and winter skiing.
🏖️ Costa Brava beaches are even closer — turquoise waters, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside villages like Cadaqués, Begur, and Tossa de Mar.
🚴♂️ The region is also a paradise for cyclists — even professional teams train here thanks to the perfect climate and scenic routes.
Whether you’re chasing mountain air or sea breezes, Girona is the ideal base for exploring Catalonia’s natural wonders.
Chapter 10: Where to Stay — From Fairytale Hotels to Cozy Apartments
Girona offers a range of accommodations to fit every style and budget.
🏰 Hotel Historic — Located in the Old Town, full of character and charm.
✨ Hotel Nord 1901 — Elegant boutique stay with a pool and modern comforts.
💰 Bed & Breakfast Bells Oficis — Cozy, affordable, and friendly.
🌿 Mas de Torrent Hotel & Spa — A luxurious countryside retreat near Girona.
Most visitors choose to stay near the Old Town to be close to the main attractions — and to wake up to the sound of church bells echoing through medieval streets.
Chapter 11: How to Get There and Get Around
Getting to Girona is easy, especially from Barcelona.
🚆 By Train: Just 40 minutes on the high-speed AVE train from Barcelona Sants.
✈️ By Plane: Girona-Costa Brava Airport has flights from across Europe.
🚗 By Car: A scenic 100 km (1-hour) drive from Barcelona.
Once you’re there, the city is very walkable — most attractions are close together, and the Old Town is best explored on foot. You can also rent a bike if you want to explore the surrounding countryside.
Chapter 12: When to Visit Girona
Girona is beautiful year-round, but some seasons bring extra magic.
🌸 Spring (April–June): The best time — warm weather, fewer tourists, and the Temps de Flors festival.
☀️ Summer (July–August): Lively, sunny, and great for beach trips, though it can get hot.
🍂 Autumn (September–October): Mild temperatures and colorful landscapes.
❄️ Winter (November–March): Quiet, calm, and perfect for a cozy, local experience.
Chapter 13: Why Girona Feels Like a Fairytale
So, what makes Girona feel like a fairytale city?
It’s the way sunlight hits the cathedral at sunset. The way old stone streets twist and turn into hidden courtyards. The way the Onyar River reflects a rainbow of colors. The way locals greet you with genuine warmth, as if they’ve known you for years.
It’s small enough to feel intimate, but rich enough to keep you exploring for days. It’s old yet alive, tranquil yet full of stories waiting to be told.
Girona doesn’t try to impress you — it simply is impressive.
Conclusion: The City That Steals Your Heart Quietly
Girona may not shout for attention like Barcelona or Madrid, but that’s part of its magic. It’s the kind of city that steals your heart quietly, without flash or fame — just timeless beauty and warmth.
Here, you’ll wander centuries-old streets, savor world-class food, and feel connected to something ancient yet very human. Whether you’re chasing history, food, photography, or peace of mind, Girona has it all — wrapped in a glow of medieval romance.
So, if you’ve ever dreamed of finding a real-life fairytale, stop dreaming — pack your bags and go to Girona, Spain.
You might just find that the fairytale you’ve been searching for… has been waiting for you all along. 🌅
