Often things are best neglected, and for the first time visitor to Girona or ancient Gerunda , in the province of the same name, this indeed proves true. Like an elegant old lady, her make-up now faded and lines visible, she is definitely worth a visit. Whether you have come for a visit to the Cathedral, to wander the medieval streets, or just for lunch, remember to stop and explore.
How to arrive:
Situated between the Pyrenees and the Costa Brava, or as Basil Fawlty would say, between the sea and the mountains, flying into Barcelona and driving here is one option, and probably a more economical choice given the range of low budget airlines. Girona’s airport has no links to the city itself but a taxi proves inexpensive, the bus and train stations are together on Plaza d’Espanya, and all trains between Barcelona and France make a stop there.
What’s to do?
Once in the City, visitors might head for the Old Town, Barri Vell, where an afternoon spent wandering through the narrow twisting streets and alleyways, to fall unexpectedly on an elegant Plaza, and enjoy a refreshment before exploring the atmospheric Jewish quarter, El Call.
Time seems to have stood still here since medieval days, following the main street of Carrer de la Força will lead you to the Museu d’Historia de la Ciutat before climbing the extremely steep stairway to the Cathedral and the widest single nave in the world at more than 72ft across. Started in the 14th century, and with the general opinion of an esteemed group of the then leading architects of Catalunya that it would never stand, well, it’s still there ….so remember the hard hat and the camera…!
And so to food:
When it comes to food, you will be met by a delicious fusion of Basque, Catalan and Mediterranean. For eating out, try one of the local fish soups, botifarra if the weather is chilly, a delicious spicy mixture of fat sausage and beans, and of course the usual array of cured meats and hard cheeses. Blow the budget or opt for the Menú del Dia, usually three courses, bread, salad, and a drink…. and always inexpensive. Also usually read out to you rapidly as opposed to written down, should confusion reign then take the plunge, guess, and prepare to be pleasantly surprised!
After a leisurely lunch – is there any other kind in Spain?- walk it off with a romantic stroll along the river Onyar, where the tall narrow spice coloured houses huddled together and the Cathedral in the background will leave you with lasting memories…
Strolling after dinner...
Where to stay?
Should you decide you want to spend more time wandering the narrow twisting streets discovering more of this lovely city or surrounding area, then consider for example the Fiesta San Jordi – yes St George is actually celebrated here!- on the 23rd April. Have a look at Girona holiday rentals for more information on some lovely places to stay. There’s a wonderful range of accommodation to suit everyone.
