costa brava day trip from girona

Girona and Costa Brava Day Trip from Barcelona

Visit ancient sites in girona and take in coastal views from an idyllic fishing village.

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Want to explore more of Catalonia while you’re in Barcelona? Join this intimate day trip to the historic city of Girona and the enchanting, coastal region of Costa Brava. Enjoy a guided visit to Girona’s ancient landmarks, savor authentic churros and xuxos, and discover two of Costa Brava’s most enchanting villages. Whether you’re a nature lover or fascinated by history, this personal, guided trip is the ultimate way to experience the miraculous beauty of Catalonia outside of Barcelona.

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Passionate English-speaking guide

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Peratallada

Capella de Palafrugell and more

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Girona and Costa Brava Tour from Barcelona

Girona and costa brava day trip from barcelona.

A day of history and seaside

Are you fascinated by the Middle Ages? Or maybe want to learn about the local Jewish Heritage? Does lunch by the beach sounds like a great plan? Combining a visit of Girona with lunch in the Costa Brava gives you the perfect mix of all this!

But did you know that for some weird reason many tour operators in Spain sell “Girona & Costa Brava full day tours”… that don’t take you to the coast at all? They take you to the Dali Museum in Figueres, which is inland. I’ve never understood why they call that Costa Brava day excursions, if they don’t take you there at all…

Well, that won’t happen with ForeverBarcelona: we call things by their real name, and our Girona and Costa Brava tour, REALLY takes you to the Costa Brava (although we can take you to the Dali Museum if you prefer, too: check the FAQ below).

The city of Girona (Spain) is a beautiful town by a river with a maze of medieval alleys and backstreets that lead to a magnificent Gothic Cathedral and an old Jewish Section next to it. Located in the inland, it’s about 1 hour drive from the rocky cliffs of the Costa Brava. This full day tour will take you to one of the most scenic seaside villages there: Tossa de Mar, with the imposing towers of its walls rising over the beach.

There is no easy public transportation combination that would allow to do that on your own, as there is no train taking you to Costa Brava. Either drive your own car… or let us handle all the logistics and take you there in a private tour!

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS GIRONA AND COSTA BRAVA DAY TOUR:

MEDIEVAL GIRONA  +  MEDITERRANEAN TOSSA DE MAR  +  LOCAL LUNCH

WHY THIS IS THE BEST GIRONA COSTA BRAVA TOUR FROM BARCELONA

✓ Go out of town for a day and forget about the city rhythm. ✓ Feel like in Italy, but without the crowds. ✓ Explore Girona with your guide, focusing on your favorite topics: Jewish heritage, medieval history, Game of Thrones, scenic points…. ✓ Walk around beautiful Girona alleys off the beaten path most tourists will never find on their own. ✓ Explore Tossa de Mar, a scenic bay with a medieval town on top of a hill overlooking the Mediterranean sea. ✓ Have lunch at a local restaurant overlooking the beach bay. ✓ And much more, in a private Girona and Costa Brava tour just for you and your party!

• THIS PRIVATE FULL DAY TOUR RUNS : Every day. SOME SITES CLOSED : Monday : the Museum of History of the Jewish of Girona is closed. Sunday : the interior of the Cathedral of Girona is not available for visits as there is mass going on (you can visit the Cloister and the Treasure Museum, though. UNIQUE : In May,  Girona celebrates the “Time of Flowers” festival. A great time to visit it and see the usual sites covered in flower decorations.
• TOUR LENGHT : 8 hours.
• RECOMMENDED STARTING TIME : 9AM (8AM is also possible March thru October)
• WHERE DO WE MEET ?  WHERE DO WE END ? Anywhere you want, within the Barcelona city limits. Hotel pick-up included within Barcelona city.
• IS THERE A LUNCH STOP ? Yes.
• HOW DO WE MOVE AROUND ? Rides in y Mercedes car or minivan for upto 6 of you + guide & dedicated driver. Walking around Girona and Tossa de Mar.
• HOW DOES THE NON-GUIDED OPTION WORK ? If you book the non-guided option, you’ll have an English-speaking driver for the rides, able to provide light conversation but not detailed explanations of the sites. You’ll also walk around Girona and Tossa de Mar on your own. You’ll be responsible of being back to the car at the time designated by us, or you might incur in extra hours.
• CAN WE DO THE DALI MUSEUM TOO ? Yes, we can skip Girona and take you to the Dali Museum instead, but the rides will be longer, what means you’ll have less time available at the sites. Or we can skip the Costa Brava and do only Girona and the Dali Museum . Doing the three sites in the same day tour would require a 10 to 12 hour full day – contact us if you are interested! Or consider doing the Dali Museum tour on a different day.

TRAVELERS LIKE YOU THAT TOOK OUR COSTA BRAVA AND GIRONA TOUR SAY:

“We used ForeverBarcelona two years ago and again in our most recent trip. Maria was a fabulous and flexible guide who customized each tour (Sagrada Familia w/ Montserrat day tour and Costa Brava w/ Dali Museum and Tossa de Mar) to meet our needs. You can’t go wrong. Worth the extra expense.”

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Costa Brava

Day trips from costa brava.

• Costa Brava to Girona
• Costa Brava to Figueres
• Costa Brava to Palafrugell
• Costa Brava to Barcelona
• Costa Brava to Tossa de Mar
• Costa Brava to L'Escala
• Costa Brava to Empuriabrava
• Costa Brava to Playa de Pals
• Costa Brava to Calella de Palafrugell
• Costa Brava to Cerdanyola del Valles
• Costa Brava to Cadaques
• Costa Brava to Peralada
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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What travellers are saying.

7 amazing Costa Brava day trips from Barcelona

Looking for Costa Brava day trips from Barcelona?

Squeezing a day outside Barcelona from your trip and venturing to Costa Brava is one of the best things you can do! There, you’ll discover medieval villages , fisherman towns , crystal-clear beaches , and many adventure opportunities (both on land and sea).

Keep scrolling for seven cherry-picked Costa Brava day trips from Barcelona!

Stunning Costa Brava day trips from Barcelona

Tossa de Mar

Tossa de Mar is a beautiful coastal town and one of Costa Brava’s villages closest to Barcelona. It offers panoramic views across the Mediterranean Sea and is famous for its sandy beaches, lighthouse and, of course, historic fortified medieval village,  the only example of a fortified medieval town still standing on the Catalan coast!

You can get to Tossa de Mar on your own or join a trip from Barcelona with transportation, food, and activities included.

There are several guided trips we recommend in Tossa de Mar depending on what you like to do:

• Kayaking and snorkelling trip : Excellent option if you want to combine some exercise with a visit to Tossa de Mar Old Town. This trip lasts  12 hours  and includes kayaking, snorkelling, eating in a traditional restaurant, and exploring the beautiful medieval town.
• Sightseeing and hiking trip : Join a local guide and explore Tossa de Mar and its surroundings in this 9-hour trip . It’s a great way to get to know the city’s history and hike to the nearby coves (level easy). The trip includes transportation and guiding, and you can either bring your lunch or book a local restaurant.

If you’d prefer to go on your own, you can  get to Tossa de Mar by bus  from Barcelona . The journey takes 1 h 15 min, and there are many buses daily.

And what can you do once there? Check our  Tossa de Mar guide  for everything you can do, from hiking and scuba diving to chilling at the nearby coves or wandering around the medieval street. In the guide, you’ll also find restaurant recommendations where you can try  authentic local foods  from the area, like  fideuà ,  arròs negre , or tapas.

Cycling trip through medieval villages

Besides crystal-clear coves and fisherman towns,  Costa Brava is also home to many charming and well-preserved medieval villages . Up for discovering them on two wheels?

Get the  bus from Barcelona Estació del Nord to Palafrugell , which takes 2 h 15 min. Once in Palafrugell, head to  BikeOn  (20 min walk), a bike rental service with super friendly staff and great bikes (gravel, road, and e-bikes).

They have designed several routes to explore the area, and we recommend  this cycling route  that will allow you to discover  Pals ,  Gualta , and  Peratallada , three of the most beautiful medieval villages in the area.

If you find yourself more comfortable with a guide than a self-guided tour, BikeOn also offers a guiding service.

If you opt for this trip, we wouldn’t recommend doing it in July and August as the temperatures are scorching during the day. Also, it’s when the villages are most crowded.  May, June, September, and October are excellent months for this cycling adventure .

Dalí-themed trip

As you might know, Costa Brava is where famous surrealist artist Salvador Dalí was born and lived for a long time. Also, the region’s landscape inspired him and can be observed in his paintings.

If you want to know more about this excentric surrealist painter, you can’t miss the  Dalí Theatre Museum in Figueres  and  his house in Port Lligat .

The first is one of the world’s best museums dedicated to the artist. The inside is full of works from Dalí, but the building is also a piece of art! It’s a quirky pink castle-like building with giant eggs on the rooftop, known as  the world’s largest surrealistic object .

The second is  a house in the little village of Portlligat, north of Cadaqués, where Dalí lived from 1930 to 1982 . During that time, he turned what used to be a fisherman’s hut into a surrealist house! Pink lips sofa in the garden, egg sculptures on the rooftop, quirky sculptures in the interior… You get the idea!

To take this day trip, you have two options:  join a  guided tour  or  do it on your own . The first option is more comfortable and relaxed, as you don’t need to worry about transportation or tickets. And, of course, going by van is much faster than by bus.

However, if you prefer the second one, you’ll have to take  the train from Barcelona to Figueres  (approx. 2 h journey), spend the morning in the museum, and later take the  bus to Cadaqués  (1 h 15 min journey and only 4 buses a day!). Dalí’s house in Portlligat is 15 minutes (walking) from the centre of Cadaqués. To get back to Barcelona, you can take a  bus from Cadaqués (approx. 3 h).

Adrenaline trip to Sant Feliu de Guíxols

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush and  excellent panoramic views of the Costa Brava , you’re in for a treat!

In Sant Feliu de Guíxols, you’ll find  the only via ferrata on Europe’s coast  The route is  480 meters long  and can go  as high as 20 metres , offering impressive views of the Mediterranean Sea.

This activity is 100% suitable for beginners. However, we highly recommend going with a guide  if you’ve never done a via ferrata before or feel more secure with an instructor. For more info on this via ferrata, check our “ Via ferrata Cala del Molí guide “.

To get to Sant Feliu de Guíxols, you can  take a bus  from Estació del Nord in Barcelona , and you’ll be there in 1 h 30 min. The buses run approximately every two hours, costing around 15 € one way.

⚠️ Important!

We recommend doing the via ferrata early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday high temperatures.

To complete your day trip, you can  get lunch at one of the many delicious restaurants in the city centre . Great ones are  El Pícaro  (tapas),  220 sushi   (Japanese food),  La Baleada  (Honduran food), and   Taverna La Cava  (Catalan food).

You can also grab some takeaway food at  Orgànic  (healthy food like poke bowls, quiche, and smoothies) or Supreme Artesanas de la Cocina (typical Moroccan food) and eat it at the main beach.

If you’re up for a challenging hike, you can walk to Tossa de Mar  following the Camí de Ronda  (it takes around 6 hours!) and take the bus back to Barcelona from there.

Multi-adventure trip

Can’t decide if you want to hike, snorkel, kayak, or cliff jump? Why not do everything?!

We bring you two activity-packed day trips to explore the Costa Brava in an adventurous way.

The  first trip  includes  hiking  the beautiful coastal path known as Camí de Ronda and  sea kayaking  in Sant Pol de s’Agaró crystalline waters. Don’t forget to jump from the kayak with your  snorkel  and explore the seabed! This trip lasts 9 hours, and you don’t need to worry about equipment or transportation; it’s all included.

If you don’t fancy kayaking, here’s our  second option . This trip also includes  hiking  the Camí de Ronda, but instead of kayaking, you’ll make a stop for  snorkelling  and  cliff jumping ! Lunch in a local restaurant, transportation and snorkel gear are included.

Girona and Costa Brava trip

Costa Brava’s capital, Girona, is a  gorgeous city with an incredible historical centre  and a vibrant atmosphere. Also, it was one of the popular Game of Thrones filming locations!

But the best is yet to come. Girona is strategically located between the sea and the mountains and is close to many Costa Brava villages. So, if you only have one day to escape Barcelona and venture to the Costa Brava, you can  mix a trip to Girona with a coastal town  and experience both.

The easiest way to do so is to join a guided tour. We recommend this  small-group 9-hour tour  with a local guide and transportation to and from Barcelona. In the morning, you’ll spend time in the coastal area of Costa Brava, moving then to Girona to discover the city.

If you’d rather discover Girona and Costa Brava on your own , you have many options. Many buses link Barcelona with several coastal towns, so you can spend the morning exploring the beaches and coastal paths. After lunch, you can take a bus to Girona and discover the city in the afternoon/evening. Check our Girona guide for our favourite things to do there.

To get back to Barcelona, hop on the high-speed train from Girona station , and you’ll reach the capital in less than 1 hour! It will be an intense daty, but 100% worth it!

Foraging and kayaking trip

Are you curious about edible plants and algae? Do you want to discover the Costa Brava in a unique way? Then, hop on a bus from Estació del Nord to Palamós and sign up for a  Marine tapas in kayak  adventure.

This guided tour involves  kayaking along the coast of Palamós , snorkelling , and hiking the Camí de Ronda with an expert  botanist . During the experience, he explains which algae and plants are suitable for  foraging  and how they can be eaten and cooked.

Actually, you won’t be doing this activity with any botanist; you’ll be doing it with the gastro botanist of the Celler de Can Roca , a famous 3-star Michelin restaurant in Catalonia!

For more info on this activity and to know our experience, check our “ Herbocaiac, a foraging and kayaking adventure in the Costa Brava ” guide.

After paddling and swimming, we’re sure you’ll be pretty hungry! Nice options for lunch are  La Cala Taverna  (sophisticated tapas and rice dishes),  Arrels gastro taverna  (gastro bar with delicious tapas), and  Kaos Palamós  (innovative tapas and rice dishes).

Is Costa Brava worth visiting?

Absolutely yes ! It’s a wonderful area with charming villages, hidden emerald coves, and plenty of adventure opportunities. Also, the food is delicious there, and it’s sunny all year round!

Although we recommend spending more than one day in Costa Brava to fully live the Mediterranean life, we understand that not all travellers have the time. Therefore, day trips to the Costa Brava from Barcelona are an excellent option to get a taste of this coastal region.

Costa Brava travel tips

The primary language spoken in Costa Brava is  Catalan . However, all locals speak Spanish, and due to its popularity as a tourist destination, many people also speak English.

Costa Brava enjoys sun all-year round . Temperatures are pleasant in spring, autumn, and winter, whereas in summer it gets pretty hot. We’re talking 30-38 ºC.

📅 Best time to visit

It depends on your preferences and activities.

Summer (June to August) offers great temperatures for water sports like scuba diving, kayaking, and swimming. However, it’s when you’ll find more crowds and you need to book everything way in advance.

Fall (September to November) and spring (March to May) provide pleasant temperatures for cycling, hiking, and sightseeing with fewer crowds. To us, April, May, June, September, and October are the best times to go .

Winter (December to February) is the lowest season. No crowds at all and pleasant temperatures. However, you might find some restaurants and accommodations closed.

Don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes, such as sneakers or hiking sandals , as there will be a lot of walking and hiking on most of the Costa Brava day trips from Barcelona we’ve mentioned before.

The Camí de Ronda is a hiking path, so we don’t recommend doing it in flip-flops.

If you’re eating out, it’s good to know that tipping is not mandatory in Spain. If you’d love the food and service, then by all means tip! It will be greatly appreciated.

We hope this post makes you want to squeeze a day outside Barcelona and discover the beautiful Costa Brava region! We’ll assure you won’t regret it. If you think about any other day trips to the Costa Brava from Barcelona, let us know in the comments! 🙂

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Exclusive Girona and Costa Brava Day Trip from Barcelona

• Experience the rich history of Girona on our intimate, private day tour from Barcelona with a visit to its ancient city and well-preserved Jewish quarter.
• Immerse yourself in architectural wonders, from the magnificent Girona Cathedral dating back to 1038, to the historical Arab baths and medieval village of Pals.
• Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the picturesque coastline of seaside town, Calella de Palafrugell, and take a dip in its serene waters.
• Savor the local Mediterranean cuisine at the finest restaurants in Calella de Palafrugell and explore the botanical gardens at Cap Roig (at your own expense).
• Book now to secure your spot on this highly personalized tour and let us tailor the unique Girona experience to your interests and preferences.

While vacationing in Barcelona, take a short trip to the Girona region for an intimate tour of this beautiful area. On this Girona and Costa Brava private day tour, you will learn about the region's fascinating history and travel to the area's main attractions.

Your day tour from Barcelona begins with a bus ride to the historic city of Girona, located about an hour northeast of Barcelona. The Onyar River divides this ancient city into an older and a newer section, which is evident in the different architectural styles of the buildings. During your tour of Girona, wander through this quaint city and see the well-preserved Jewish quarter, which was vibrant during the 12th century. Also, pass by Girona's magnificent Cathedral, which dates back to 1038, and the historical Arab baths. Stroll along the Roman walls or relax at a cafe to soak up the tastes and sounds of lovely Girona.

Next, you will continue your tour in the medieval village of Pals. While in this walled city, you will have time to explore the cobblestone streets, and you can see the masts which broadcast the famous Radio Liberty programs during the Cold War.

After your Pals tour, you will head to Calella de Palafrugell. In this seaside town, you will stroll along the coastline, and if you wish, you can swim in the serene waters. There are many excellent restaurants here if you wish to sample the local Mediterranean cuisine.

Be sure to book this tour well in advance; it's an experience you don't want to miss. Keep in mind that our Girona small group tours are very personalized, so when booking this Girona day trip, inform your guide of any special interests you have or any sites you wish to see. Your guide will use this information to plan a tour that will appeal to your particular preferences.

Private Girona And Costa Brava Tour – Day Trip From Barcelona – With Pickup

Private girona and costa brava tour day trip from barcelona - with pickup.

Available language: English 1- Ask us to adjust the itinerary to your preferences. 2- Pickup & Drop-off From Hotel, Apartment, Cruise Port or Airport of Barcelona 3- Infant seat is available upon a request. Show More

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The Ultimate Girona Day Trip from Barcelona

Last Updated on November 20, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Though you could easily spend 2 or 3 days in Girona , planning to go on a Girona day trip from Barcelona is an excellent option for those who don’t have unlimited time to devote to their trips to Catalonia. This compact city to the north of Spain’s second-largest city is absolutely charming and doesn’t really get the recognition it truly deserves.

If you’re looking for the ultimate day trip from Barcelona, then Girona is an excellent option – especially if you’re after a larger city rather than something like smaller Figueres or a natural attraction like Montserrat . Girona is compact and you can see the majority of the city’s many sites in the span of one day and still not get bored.

Table of Contents

How to Get from Barcelona to Girona

Before we get into all of the best things to do in Girona for a day, we need to talk about how you plan to get to the city from Barcelona. There are four main ways that you can reach the city: by car, by bus, by train or by organised tour.

If you want to take the active planning out of your day trip to Girona, then going via organised tour is an excellent choice for you. There are lots of options available that can suit all kinds of travellers.

For instance, this half-day tour from Barcelona takes off from the main bus station in Barcelona and includes a guided walking tour of all of the top sites in Girona. You will also get some free time to explore Girona on your own before catching the coach back to Barcelona.

If you’re interested in visiting both Girona and the Costa Brava but you’re short on time, then this full-day tour could be a great option. Limited to 8 people, the tour not only stops in Girona and takes you around the main sites of the city but also includes a stop in a fishing village on the Costa Brava.

Alternatively, if you’re a fan of Salvador Dalí, then this small-group tour includes both a stop in Girona alongwith a visit to Figueres and the Dalí Museum. This is a great option for lovers of the surrealist movement.

Or if you’re a Game of Thrones fan, then this day tour is an excellent option. You’ll visit the top sites of the city along with all of the locations that were used in the popular series.

If you’ve decided to visit Girona independently, one of the easiest and quickest ways to do this is via the train.

There are countless trains available daily and the journey time between Barcelona and Girona is only about 40 minutes. If you book far enough in advance, it can be a fairly affordable option, as well. The train station in Girona is walking distance to the main attractions of the city.

If you want to take the train to Girona, you can book tickets online here.

Another option to get to Girona is by bus. This can be a bit more affordable than going by train, however, the buses are less frequent and they take about double the time to get there than the train – roughly one hour and 50 minutes.

If you choose to visit Girona by bus, you can book online in advance here in order to secure your seat.

If you want to make some stops along the way or have the ultimate flexibility in Girona, then getting to the city by car is the best bet.

You can drive from Barcelona to Girona in around 40 minutes to 1 hour depending on the traffic. There is plenty of paid parking available near the city centre.

If you want to rent a car, we like using Rentalcars.com in order to find a compare prices across major car hire companies.

Girona Day Trip Itinerary

Now that we’ve covered how to get there, let’s get into all of the things to do. Because of its small size, it’s easy to pack a lot into just a short amount of time.

City Walls of Girona

Begin your one day in Girona at the city walls. Located in the Old Town, these walls are the perfect place to get an excellent vantage point of the city and to get your bearings at the start of the day.

They’re free to enter and they are well-maintained to walk along. You will also find a couple of towers that you can climb in order to get a better view over the city.

Girona Cathedral

After enjoying the city walls, walk into the old town and visit the incredible Girona Cathedral. One of the main focal points of the Girona skyline, this church has an impressive staircase leading up to the main entrance that makes the building look absolutely magnificent.

Like many cathedrals in Spain, this building was, at one point, a mosque before the region was reconquered.

You can opt to go inside the cathedral if you’re visiting outside of worship hours, however, it is also just as beautiful and impactful to simply enjoy it from the outside.

If you want to see some Game of Thrones filming locations along with visiting interesting historic sites, then make sure to visit the Arab Baths. Located in the Old Town, these baths actually were not constructed during the Moorish rule of Girona but rather afterwards in the style of Arabic baths.

Dating back to the 12th century, these baths have had a lot of historic significance in the city. At one point used as a mikveh for the city’s once-thriving Jewish community, the baths now serve as a museum.

You can tour them for €3 per person and there are explanations in English.

Jewish Museum

As mentioned in the previous stop, Girona once had one of the largest Jewish communities in the entirety of Spain and boasts one of the best-preserved Jewish quarters in the country.

If you want to learn more about the history of Jews in Girona, Catalonia and Spain in general, then make sure to head to the Jewish Museum, located in the Old Town.

The museum is open daily and the price for entry is €4 per person with discounts available for qualifying concessions.

Basilica de Sant Feliu

Heading down toward the river, you will reach the other beautiful church that features as a major focal point of the city’s skyline – the Basilica de Sant Feliu. This church was constructed between the 12th and 17th centuries and is just another example of the gorgeous architecture that Girona boasts.

This basilica is most notable for its imposing spire that is incredibly striking. If you’d like, you can visit the interior of the church, as well.

Regardless of whether you enjoy the Basilica de Sant Feliu from the inside or simply from the outside, you can’t miss this beautiful church.

After a busy morning of sightseeing, it’s very likely that you’ve worked up quite an appetite. Luckily, there are plenty of fantastic places within easy reach of the top sites of Girona where you can get a delicious, affordable and authentic bite to eat.

Some of our favourite spots for lunch include Taverna d’El Foment which is located in its own small square and has a large menu serving Catalonian specialities.

If you’re interested in venturing a bit away from the city centre and want a local experience, then consider heading to Fénix Restaurant where they have an excellent set daily menu for a great price.

After a nice, leisurely lunch, it’s time to take a stroll along the river. Girona is known for its beautiful houses that overlook the small river — known as Cases de l’Onyar — along with its many bridges.

Perhaps the most famous bridge in Girona is the Pont de les Peixateries Velles, more commonly referred to as the Eiffel Bridge. It is so-called because it was designed by Gustave Eiffel – the same man whose company designed Paris’ eponymous tower!

There are a number of other bridges across the Onyar, with another notable one being the Pont de la Pedra. This larger stone bridge is located close to the Placa de Catalunya and, during the winter season, there are even Christmas market stalls set up on the bridge.

Placa de la Independencia

Just across the river from the old town lies Girona’s main square – the Placa de la Independencia.

Though it looks similar to most other main plazas in small Spanish cities, this is really the beating heart of the city and it is worth visiting when you’re on your day trip.

The square is lined with a number of cafes and restaurants, meaning that it’s a great place to stop for a drink and to people watch (it’s probably best to eat a meal a little bit further away from the main square, however). In the winter, this is where the main Christmas market is set up, as well.

Parc de la Devesa

If you’re looking for a bit of peace and tranquillity after your busy day of exploring, then make sure to wander over to the lovely Parc de la Devesa.

This massive city park is located only a stone’s throw from the old town but it feels like a different world. There are lots of pathways, benches and plenty of trees where you can spend as much or as little time as you’d like taking in the peaceful vibes here.

Museum of Archaeology

After you’ve rejuvenated yourself in the park, make your way back into the old town and visit one final museum, the Museum of Archaeology.

This museum is situated in the historic Sant Pere de Galligants Benedictine abbey and includes countless artefacts from around the region. For a small, regional museum there is an impressive collection here and there are also descriptions in English (along with Catalan, Spanish and French).

Unless you happen to be visiting on the first Sunday of the month, entry into the museum is €6 per person. If you are at all interested in archaeology and want to know about the ancient history of Girona and the surrounding region, then make sure not to miss this museum.

Placa de Ví

End your day in another square in the Girona Old Town – the lovely Paca de Ví.

Though this plaza is not nearly as grand as the Placa de la Independencia or as big as the Placa de Catalunya, there are a number of different restaurants and bars lining it and it has a definite more laid-back vibe.

It is the perfect place to have a drink, grab a snack and people watch until you need to head back to Barcelona.

Have More Time in Girona?

If you have more than a day in Girona to spend, there are plenty of things to see and do in and around the city.

If you have two full days to spend in Girona, take the time to visit more sites and museums within the city itself. There are lots of places where you won’t regret spending your time and going at a slower pace through the city is sure to boost your appreciation of this gorgeous Catalonian gem.

You can also use Girona as a base to go on a number of day trips in the region. For instance, the city is located closer to Salvador Dalí’s birthplace of Figueres than Barcelona.

Other places that are worth visiting include the incredible Medieval town of Besalú, Banyoles Lake and even the Volcanic Zone nearby.

Planning a Barcelona to Girona day trip is not a hard thing to do considering how many options there are to choose from to get to the city. There are countless things to do in Girona that can occupy you for a full day (or even 2 or 3)!

Are you planning to visit Girona from Barcelona? Have any questions about this Catalonian city? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Girona Itinerary

The Perfect Ronda Day Trip from Seville & Malaga

The Perfect San Sebastian Day Trip from Bilbao

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

Hi Maggie,how do i get from Girona to Besalu?Not driving. How many hrs do i need to spend in Besalu? Thank you

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Barcelona Premium Small Group Tours

From barcelona: montserrat, girona and costa brava full-day tour.

• Visit three gems of Catalonia's surroundings
• Be amazed by the Magic Mountain & Abbey of Montserrat
• Enjoy an exclusive guided tour in the basilica—home to the revered ‘Black Madonna’ statue— the atrium, cloister and main square
• Experience Girona’s rich history and culture
• Discover the Arab baths in Girona (except on Sundays that is closed and will be replaced by another activity) and the filming locations from the Game of Thrones series.
• Relax, feel the breeze and admire the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea while walking through a village of the Costa Brava

99.99 € per person

Experience Barcelona’s emblematic surroundings on a full day trip through 3 iconic sites. Be amazed by one of the Catalan wonders with a visit to mystical Montserrat. Feel transported to the medieval ages in Girona while strolling around the Jewish quarter, medieval city walls, the Eiffel Bridge and some of the Game of Thrones shooting locations. Enjoy the breeze and admire the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea while walking through an iconic and charming Mediterranean fishing village of the Costa Brava.

Enhance an exclusive experience on a full-day tour through 3 iconic sites: Montserrat, Girona and Costa Brava, and discover Barcelona’s emblematic surroundings.

The experience starts in the upper part of Passeig de Gràcia, before journeying to experience the natural splendor of Montserrat, Catalonia’s most emblematic mountain, topped by a Benedictine Monastery. On the way to the Monastery, admire the Massif of Montserrat, a spectacular multi-peaked rocky range packed with unique needle-shape formations. Learn about the cornerstone of the Catalan culture, history, nature and spirituality. Enjoy an exclusive guided tour in the basilica—home to the revered ‘Black Madonna’ statue—and the atrium, cloister and main square.

Continue this amazing experience ahead to Girona, a charming Old Town where the remains of a Roman and medieval past coexist with the present, offering an image full of contrasts. Your guide will reveal all the secrets of the city. Explore the best-preserved Jewish quarter in Europe. Admire the cathedral, boasting the widest Gothic nave in the world, and marvel at the colorful spectacle of houses along the Onyar River, which splits the city in two. Cross over Pont de les Peixateries Velles, designed by the famous Gustave Eiffel in 1877. Go to the top of Girona’s medieval walls to enjoy the best panoramic views. If you are interested in The Game of Thrones series, the guide will show the locations where the 6th season was filmed. Then you’ll have free time to have lunch and discover the city by yourself.

Costa Brava

End this exclusive tour in a beautiful village on the costa brava. Feel the breeze, relax yourself, discover amazing coves and admire the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.

08:15h – Welcome with our We specialist guide. 08:30h – Starting the experience at Av. Diagonal, 617, Les Corts, 08028 Barcelona. Go through Barcelona learning the stories about the buildings and the Eixample We will drive you through Diagonal avenue, the largest in Barcelona. See the Royal Palace of Pedralbes and the Campus from the UB, the first public university in the city. Leave the city and start to see all the surrounding cities and towns. You will be able to see the Sportive City of FC Barcelona and its headquarters. We will drive you through the Countryside and you will start to see the great mountain of Montserrat. Get into the Natural Park of Montserrat. See the great views while your are going up to the mountain. 10:00h – We will arrive to Montserrat and start de cultural visit to the Monastery. Visit the Basilica of Santa Maria de Montserrat and learn about the Monks lifestyle. 12:00h – Departure to Girona. 13:30h – Arrival to Girona and start of the guided visit in the city. 15:30h – End of the guided visit and free time for lunch. 16:30h – Departure to Costa Brava. 17:15h – Arrival to Tossa de Mar and guided visit. 18:30h – Travel back to Barcelona. 20:00h – Arrival at the ending point Av. Diagonal, 355, L’Eixample, 08037 Barcelona

• Please, be at the check in point 15’ minutes before departure time.
• Comfortable clothing and shoes
• This product is subject to cancellation or rescheduling based on inclement weather.
• The visit to the Moreneta is not guaranteed, it is subject to availability and depending on the season, as there may be up to 2hrs of queue.
• There is a minimum of people required to operate the tour. In the event that this minimum is not met, customers will be offered an alternative date, another tour of equal or superior value, or a full refund.
• There is a minimum number of people required to operate on languages that are not English or Spanish. If this minimum is not reached, the tour will be offered in English.
• Tour may be affected due to special circumstances
• Guided visit of Montserrat, Girona and a Costa Brava village
• Montserrat Abbey entrance
• Arabs baths entrance (except on Sundays that is closed and will be replaced by another activity)
• Multilingual Professional guide
• Exclusive full day trip
• Lunch in a traditional restaurant if upgrade option is selected or enjoy free time for lunch

Not Included

• Tips (optional)
• Food or beverages unless specified
• Hotel pick up

Aditional Info

• Meeting Point: Av. Diagonal, 617, Les Corts, 08028 Barcelona
• Languages: English, Spanish
• Duration: 11h30
• Departure: 08h30. Check in time 08h15
• Cancellation: 24 hours free of charge. Less than 24 hours or No Show 100%.
• Available: Daily
• Child Policy: Child price 89.99 (4-8 years)

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• Av. Diagonal, 617, Les Corts, 08028 Barcelona

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Girona/Costa Brava tour

Price: several options available – use form below for more details.

Our semi-private  VIP-type tour has only 6-10 participants!

• Pick-up and drop-off included
• VIP-type tour in a semi-private group
• Expert guide for the day
• All the main highlights of Girona & Tossa de Mar

Join us for a day trip to the medieval town of Girona and discover the wild coast of Catalonia!

Explore one of the most beautiful medieval towns in Europe and enjoy an afternoon in a charming village on the Costa Brava. We have a VIP-type semi-private tour as well as 2 different choices for private tours.  Please contact us for more details and prices using the form at the bottom of the page.

On the full-day tour we will also drive to the Costa Brava to explore the small village of Tossa de Mar. Here we will enjoy a relaxing afternoon shopping at the local market and soaking up the local flavors and views at one of the nicest villages along the coast.  On a sunny afternoon this is truly a charming place to visit and you will have a memorable experience.  At the end of the tour, we will safely deliver you to wherever you need to go – your hotel, cruise port, or the airport.  We can also arrange a skip-the-line tour inside the Sagrada Familia with an advance request.

To find out about availability and options for your specific dates please use the short form below.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Costa Brava

Day trips from costa brava.

• Costa Brava to Girona
• Costa Brava to Figueres
• Costa Brava to Palafrugell
• Costa Brava to Barcelona
• Costa Brava to Tossa de Mar
• Costa Brava to L'Escala
• Costa Brava to Empuriabrava
• Costa Brava to Playa de Pals
• Costa Brava to Calella de Palafrugell
• Costa Brava to Cerdanyola del Valles
• Costa Brava to Cadaques
• Costa Brava to Peralada
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
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The 18 Best Barcelona Tours

There's something for everyone on the Spanish coast.

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Watch the Barcelona sunrise from Park Güell.

With its stunning architecture, delicious food, sandy beaches, rich history and proximity to scenic mountains, Barcelona offers no shortage of things to do. To help you navigate the city's plethora of attractions , rely on the assistance of an informed local to help you make the most of your visit. Using both expert opinion and traveler sentiment, U.S. News identified 18 of the top Barcelona tours. Whether on foot, by bike or aboard a boat, these tours will help enhance your Barcelona experience.

Barcelona Segway Tour

Price: Adults from 49 euros (about $54); minors from 45 euros (around $49) Duration: 2 hours

Explore Barcelona's waterfront via Segway on this two-hour tour. Along the nearly 8-mile excursion, you can expect to glide by Marina Port Vell, Parc de la Ciutadella and   La Barceloneta , the city's popular beach, among other key points of interest. Reviewers praise guides for their knowledge and attention to safety, and say riding the Segway was a fun way to see the waterfront. What's more, because the Segways are equipped with audio speakers, you won't miss any of your guide's commentary – another highlight for past participants.

Tours depart from the Arc de Triomf multiple times each day. Tickets cost approximately 49 euros (about $54) for adults and 45 euros (around $49) per minor (age 16), and include use of a Segway and a helmet, as well as bottled water and insights from a local resident. Groups are limited to six participants. The company also runs a Gaudi-themed Segway tour and a tour that visits some of the sites used for the 1992 Summer Olympics, among others.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3

Photo Bike Tour Barcelona – 4 Hours Discovering Barcelona

Price: Adults from 65 euros (about $71); kids from 45 euros (about $50) Duration: 4 hours

This roughly four-hour trip on electric bicycles covers a lot of territory, from the waterfront to parks to celebrated landmarks to various neighborhoods with frequent stops for photos. Tour-takers effusively praise the guides for their enthusiasm, friendliness, knowledge and photography skills. They also say that it is an incredible way to explore the city.

Tours are generally offered daily at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets start 65 euros (about $71) for adults and 45 euros (about $50) for children ages 11 and younger. Tours conclude with a stop at a local restaurant for tapas and a drink (included in the ticket). Among the company's other offerings are private biking tours and tapas walking tours.

View & Book Tickets: Viator

Runner Bean Tours Barcelona – Gaudí Free Tour

Price: Free Duration: 2.5 hours

The Gaudí Free Tour highlights distinctive sites around the city associated with the imaginative architect Antoni Gaudí. The approximately 2 1/2-hour walking tour includes stops at Palau Güell, Casa Batlló, Casa Milà , and the fantastical, and yet-to-be-finished, Sagrada Família , among other spots. The English-speaking guides consistently win praise for their knowledge of the buildings and their histories.

Though tours are offered at no charge, donations are welcome. To guarantee your spot on the tour, the company recommends reserving a ticket on its website; bookings cost 2.50 euros (about $2.75) per person and the fee is nonrefundable. The excursion entails a couple of metro trips; tour-takers are responsible for their own fares. Tours run daily at 11 a.m. Runner Bean also offers free tours of the Gothic Quarter as well as ticketed nighttime and family-oriented outings.

View & Book Tickets: Runner Bean Tours

Free Walking Tours Barcelona – Gothic Quarter Free Tour of Barcelona

The Free Gothic Quarter Tour explores its namesake neighborhood and weaves through popular destinations in the city, including Roman ruins, the Picasso murals and Las Ramblas (Barcelona's best-known boulevard), among others. Tourgoers describe guides as personable and well-versed in local history and architecture. Reviewers also appreciated the restaurant and bar recommendations shared by guides at the end of the tour.

The approximately 2 1/2-hour tours begin at Plaça de Catalunya at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily. Compensation for the tours is donation-based, meaning you can give your guide what you feel the experience is worth at its conclusion. Among the company's other offerings are a free Gaudi-themed walking tour and a fee-based bike tour.

View & Book Tickets: Free Walking Tours Barcelona

Courtesy of David Saenz | Devour Barcelona Food Tours

Along the Barcelona Tapas, Taverns & History Tour, participants will stop at three historic tapas bars in the Gothic Quarter.

Devour Barcelona Food Tours – Barcelona Tapas, Taverns & History Tour

Price: From 109 euros (about $120) Duration: 3.5 hours

Appealing to history buffs and foodies alike, this 3.5-hour tour examines the cuisines and civilizations that continue to have an influence on Barcelona's dining scene. Along with a 50-minute history tour, the experience also includes stops at three historic tapas bars in the Gothic Quarter. Reviewers raved about the friendly, well-versed guides and said the food portions are plentiful.

Tours are generally offered Monday through Saturday several times a day. Tickets start at 109 euros (about $120) per adult. If you're looking for a family-friendly option, consider the company's Tastes & Traditions of Barcelona Food Tour, which features stops for some of Barcelona's traditional dishes like paella.

Barcelona Day Tours – Barcelona & Montserrat Tour

Price: From 109 euros (about $120) Duration: 8 hours

See both Barcelona and nearby Montserrat with this eight-hour daytrip operated by Barcelona Day Tours. Among the Barcelona highlights are several sites designed by Gaudí, including Park Güell , the National Museum of Art of Catalonia and a variety of monuments, parks and plazas. After touring the city, participants will hop on a 12-person van to Montserrat (about 35 miles north of Barcelona) to see its monastery, incredible rock formations and spectacular views. Along the way, guides offer insightful, amusing commentary on the area's history, according to reviewers. Tourgoers were also pleased with the skilled driver and appreciated the that groups are kept small (between four and 12 participants).

Tickets cost about 109 euros (about $120) and include pickup and drop-off at area hotels , the cruise port or the airport. Barcelona Day Tours also operate excursions to Girona and the Costa Brava region, among other options.

View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2

We Barcelona – 360º Barcelona: Helicopter Flight, Walking Tour & Boat Cruise

Price: Adults from 130 euros (about $143); kids from 110 euros (about $121) Duration: 3.5 hours

A combination of three tours in one, this We Barcelona excursion includes a guided walk, a helicopter ride and a short sail along the Mediterranean Sea. Travelers begin this trip with a walking tour through the Gothic and Jewish quarters before taking a six-minute helicopter ride over the city and a boat ride along its shoreline. The multilingual guides receive high marks for their knowledge and professionalism. Participants were particularly impressed with the helicopter ride.

The 3.5 to four-hour outings are offered daily at 9:30 a.m. and 3 p.m.; on Sundays, tours are only offered at 9:30 a.m. Tickets cost approximately 130 euros (around $145) for adults and 110 euros (about $123) for children ages 4 to 8. Sailing tours, day tours to Montserrat and cooking classes are also available to book through We Barcelona.

Fat Tire Tours – City Bike Tour

Price: Adults from 34 euros (about $37); kids from 30 euros (about $33) Duration: 4.5 hours

Spend 4 1/2-hours navigating Barcelona's streets by bike with Fat Tire Tours. During the approximately 7-mile ride, you'll stop outside several key destinations, such as Plaça Sant Jaume (the starting point), La Catedral , Palau de la Música Catalana and Parc de la Ciutadella. The morning tour makes a lunch stop, while the afternoon tour stops at a beach bar (food and drinks not included in the tour ticket). Tourgoers rave about the fun and informative guides. Reviewers also report the ride is relatively flat and safe and that the bikes are in great condition.

Tours are offered daily at 10:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tickets start at 34 euros (about $38) for adults and 30 euros (about $33) for kids ages 4 to 12. The price includes use of a bicycle and a helmet, but not lunch, snacks or drinks. Groups are limited to 16 cyclists. Fat Tire also offers private tours, tours using electric bikes and an evening bike tour, among others.

The Gothic Quarter is one of many sights you'll see on the free walking tour from Sandemans New Europe.

Sandemans New Europe – Free Tour of Barcelona

Stroll through the Gothic Quarter and El Born District with a local guide by your side on this 2.5-hour tour. Along the way, you'll admire sights like the Barcelona Cathedral, Santa Maria del Mar, Plaça Sant Jaume and more. Plus, guides share stories about Catalan legends and heroes and the city's Roman heritage.

The tour is technically free, but if you'd like to guarantee your spot, consider booking a ticket, which costs 3 euros (about $3) per person. Gratuities for your guide are optional. Reviewers describe guides as funny and intelligent, and say it's worth paying the small reservation fee to guarantee your spot on the tour (some participants said they saw a few travelers who had not made a reservation being turned away on the day of the tour due to capacity restrictions). The company also offers a free walking tour all about Gaudí, as well as private tours.

View & Book Tickets: Sandemans New Europe

Steel Donkey Bike Tours – The Legendary Steel Donkey Off the Beaten Track Bike Tour

Price: From 33 euros (around $36) Duration: 3-4 hours

Steel Donkey Bike Tours prides itself on offering participants a local's perspective of Barcelona. The rides do not stick to a preordained route; instead, they meander through backstreets to off-the-beaten-path attractions. Stops may include flea markets and cemeteries, as well as beaches and churches. Many riders appreciate the chance to visit areas of the city they might have otherwise missed. Others applaud the informative, friendly guides and recommend taking this on your first day in Barcelona to get your bearings.

Rides are offered daily at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Tour prices start at 33 euros (about $36) for the three-hour afternoon tour and include the use of bikes; morning bike trips last around four hours and start at 39 euros (about $43). Tours usually include a stop for a refreshment, which is not covered by the ticket price. From December to February, tours are offered Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday. Groups are restricted to eight cyclists. Private tours are also available.

BrightSide Tours – Half Day Barcelona City Tour

Price: From 145 euros (about $159) Duration: 3.5 hours

You choose the sights you want to see on this customizable motorcycle tour. During the 3.5-hour ride, you and up to one other person will ride on the back of the motorcycle or in its sidecar. Because the tours are designed by participants, the trips run at a leisurely pace and include plenty of stops for photos. Each vehicle can accommodate one driver/guide and two passengers, who communicate via intercoms mounted on helmets. Tourgoers rave about the guides, praising them for the knowledge of Barcelona and attention to safety. Reviewers also say this unique tour is a great option for hard-to-please teens.

Pricing depends on the number of passengers per bike, but typically starts at about 145 euros (or $159) per person on a motorcycle with two passengers; fees are a bit higher for single riders. Excursions run at 9:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. each day. BrightSide also operates full-day sidecar tours and van tours for larger groups.

Montserrat makes a great daytrip from Barcelona; Castlexperience Wine Tours will not only take you there, but will also help you to experience the region's wine.

Castlexperience Wine Tours – Montserrat, Food & Wine

Price: Adults from 105 euros (about $115); kids from 95 euros (around $104) Duration: 10 hours

Explore Montserrat, a mountainous region located about 40 miles northwest of Barcelona, with this approximately 10-hour excursion from Castlexperience Wine Tours. Following a guided, hourlong tour of the monastery, you'll have a couple hours to explore the area on your own, perhaps by viewing Dalí and Picasso paintings at the local museum, taking a short hike or listening to the Escolania de Montserrat Boys' Choir (schedule permitting). Following lunch at a local restaurant, you'll enjoy a tour and a tasting at a family-run winery. This excursion is highly regarded by tourgoers as well-organized, with beautiful scenery and very competent guides.

Tickets for the full-day tour cost approximately 105 euros (around $115) for adults and around 95 euros (about $104) per child ages 4 to 12. Tours depart daily around 9 a.m. Shorter Montserrat tours are also available.

View & Book Tickets: Viator | GetYourGuide

Food Lover Tour – Barcelona Tapas Crawl Tour

Price: Adults from 69 euros (about $76); kids from 45 euros (about $50) Duration: 3 hours

A food-focused bar crawl, this small-group tour travels through two neighborhoods – Poble Sec and Sant Antoni in the Eixample district – with stops at four restaurants and bars serving tapas and drinks. Over the course of the three-hour stroll, guides provide background regarding regional cuisine and Spanish culture. Participants applaud both the unique restaurants and the storytelling skills of the informative guides. Reviewers highly recommend this tour if you want to see where the locals dine.

Tours take place at 6 p.m. daily. Tickets cost approximately 69 euros (about $76) for participants ages 2 and older and 45 euros (about $50) for infants 1 and younger, and include 10 to 12 tapas servings, the equivalent of a meal, as well as four or five drinks. Groups consist of at least four and no more than 10 people. Food Lover Tour also offers a brunch-themed tapas tour and a market tour, amongst other offerings.

Barcelona Architecture Walks – Barcelona & Gaudí

Price: From 42 euros (about $46) Duration: 3 hours

If you're looking for in-depth conversations about the history and ideas that helped give rise to the city's famous structures, the Barcelona & Gaudí Tour is for you. Along the way, you'll pass by Casa Calvet and Casa Batlló, among other Gaudí designs. Professional architects and architecture critics lead the tour and are routinely described as extraordinarily knowledgeable, insightful experts regarding history, architecture and engineering.

Tickets for the three-hour tour start 42 euros (about $46) per person and children 11 and younger tour free. Tours start every Tuesday, Friday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.; beginning in October, tours are only offered Tuesday and Friday. Groups are limited to 20 architecture enthusiasts. Barcelona Architecture Walks also offers tours themed around urbanism and Barcelona's newest architecture, among others.

Spanish Trails – Costa Brava & Medieval Girona Day Trip

Price: From 140 euros (about $154) Duration: 9.5 hours

Escape to Costa Brava – the "rugged coast" – on this day tour hosted by Spanish Trails. During the approximately 9.5-hour excursion, you'll see unrivaled views of the Mediterranean Sea, secluded beaches and fishing villages, as well as the medieval walled city of Girona. In Girona, you'll enjoy a three-course lunch in a traditional Catalan restaurant, as well as entrance to the cathedral and Museum of Jewish History. Guides regularly earn accolades for their informative and entertaining storytelling. Travelers also praise the gorgeous views in Costa Brava.

Groups range from two to eight participants. Tours depart Barcelona by van at 9 a.m. on Tuesdays and Saturdays and return to the city around 7 p.m. Tickets start at 140 euros (about $154) and include a three-course lunch at a restaurant in Girona. Spanish Trails also runs a hiking tour in Costa Brava and several tours in Barcelona.

View & Book Tickets: Spanish Trails

Explore Catalunya – Three Countries in One Day: France, Andorra and Spain from Barcelona

Price: From 139 euros (about $153) Duration: 12 hours

This tour from Explore Catalunya packs stops in multiple countries into a single, roughly 12-hour journey. The tour focuses on small villages, including Bagà in Spain, Ax-Les-Thermes in France and Andorra's capital, where travelers are encouraged to shop or hike. Reviewers routinely praise the stops along the tour and say it provides a relaxing contrast to the busyness of Barcelona. Additionally, guides are regularly lauded for their insights regarding the various medieval towns and mountainous peaks on view during this tour.

Tickets start at 139 euros (roughly $153). Excursions start at 7 a.m. daily. Group size is restricted to 20 participants. Explore Catalunya offers a variety of tours that depart from Barcelona, including a tour of Costa Brava and the Pyrenees Mountains.

Barcelona Local Experiences – Skip the line: Sagrada Familia and Park Güell guided tour

Price: Adults from 104 euros (about $114); kids from 69 euros (about $76) Duration: 4 hours

Visit two of Barcelona's most famous attractions – Park Güell and La Sagrada Família – on this approximately four-hour tour. You'll enjoy skip-the-line access to both sites and private transportation between the park and the church. Travelers describe the tour as well-structured and especially appreciated the organized transportation from the park to the cathedral. Reviewers were also impressed with the passionate guides. What's more, tour sizes are capped at 12 participants, ensuring an intimate experience.

The tour is generally offered daily at 10 a.m.; on select days, only private tours are available. Tickets start at 104 euros (about $114) for adults and 69 euros (about $76) for kids ages 10 and younger. If you're only interested in seeing the Sagrada Família, Barcelona Local Experiences offers a 90-minute guided tour inside the UNESCO World Heritage-listed building, among other tours.

In Out Barcelona Tours – Girona and Dali Museum Small Group Tour with Hotel Pick-up from Barcelona

Price: Adults from 119.50 euros (about $131); kids from 98.50 euros (about $108) Duration: 10 hours

If you're a Dalí fan, this tour is for you. On this 10-hour tour, you'll hop in a van headed for the medieval town of Girona. After touring Girona – which is home to the best-preserved Jewish quarter in Europe – you'll venture to Figueres, a small town near the French border and the birthplace of Salvador Dalí. You'll visit the Dalí Theatre-Museum and see some of the places the influential artist frequented as an adult. Travelers say that though this tour covers a lot of ground and subject matter, it never feels overwhelming thanks to the small group (up to eight participants) and attentive guide. Others said this a particularly good option for solo travelers.

Tickets, which include round-trip hotel transportation and museum entrance, start at 119.50 euros (about $131) for adults and 98.50 euros (about $108) for kids ages 10 and younger. Tours depart from Barcelona Tuesday through Sunday at 8:30 a.m. This tour operator runs a variety of other tours, including daytrips to Montserrat and Sitges, among other destinations.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Things to Do in Barcelona
• The Best Hotels in Barcelona
• The Best Places to Visit in Spain
• The Best Places to Visit in Europe
• The Best Beaches in Spain

Tags: Tours , Travel , Vacations , Europe Vacations

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