We travel to Girona to find the Top 6 – Food and Sights to see.
A beautiful city in Catalonia, Spain, which boasts a rich history and charming atmosphere. Located about 100km northeast of Barcelona, its easily reached by train or car. The direct train from Barcelona Sants takes only 38 minutes.
Its medieval architecture, including the iconic Onyar River houses, draws visitors into a maze of narrow streets and ancient walls. The imposing Girona Cathedral stands as a testament to the city’s architectural heritage. The blend of Spanish and Catalan cultures is reflected in the local cuisine and vibrant festivals. With a backdrop of the Pyrenees Mountains and proximity to the Costa Brava, Girona offers a diverse experience that resonates with history and natural beauty.
1. Restaurant El Cul del Mon
Girona is famous for it’s gastronomic delights. Located a 5 minutes drive outside Girona old town, El Cul del Mon is a hidden gem. They mix traditional Moroccan flavours with the local Catalan cuisine. Most ingredients are locally sourced and organic.
We visited in the middle of August at lunchtime and it was not so busy, but this restaurant can easily get fully booked so make sure to reserve a table to not get disappointed.
If the weather permits I would recommend their beautiful outdoor seating area.
Daily specials are presented on a chalkboard and there is also a normal more permanent menu.
We opted for a rose wine and a tomato tartar with burrata as a starter which came with a pesto-like sauce. For mains we ordered their grilled Octopus dish and chicken cous-cous dish. Super tasty and well made.
All in all it came to 53 euros. Very affordable for this high quality food. Highly recommended.
2. Eiffel Bridge
Entering Girona Old Town is like stepping back in time. A beautifully preserved medieval centre. As number 2 on our Girona Top 6 list, we have the Eiffel Bridge.
Pont de les Peixateries Velles, commonly known as the Eiffel Bridge, is a remarkable iron bridge spanning the Onyar River in Girona. Designed by Gustave Eiffel’s engineering firm, the bridge’s intricate lattice structure and elegant arches blend seamlessly with the city’s historic surroundings. Erected in 1877, it stands as a testament to both architectural ingenuity and Girona’s industrial past. The bridge’s iconic silhouette has become an integral part of the city’s skyline, offering picturesque views and serving as a symbol of Girona’s rich heritage.
3. Cafés of Girona
Girona old town is filled with trendy small café’s. We opted for one called Federal Café, located on Carrer de la Forca. They serve great coffees and drinks and have some amazing cakes. We tried their Orange cake and we were not disappointed. Most café’s in old town offer both indoor and outdoor space. Our bill came to 9 euros and we were all ready to continue exploring Girona.
Girona is a paradise for bicycle enthusiasts. The old town is filled with racing bike botiques and repair shops. If you are into road cycling, this is a must visit. Around Girona there are lots of cycle-routes, for amateurs to experts.
4. Cathedral of Girona
As number 4 on our Girona Top 6 list, we have the Cathedral. Girona Cathedral, a gem of Catalan architecture in Spain, boasts a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles. Its grandeur is defined by a majestic Baroque façade, intricate Gothic nave, and an iconic 86-meter bell tower. A testament to history and artistry, the cathedral captivates with its rich heritage and stunning design.
The Cathedral and its steps are also recently famous as a Game of Thrones location as it features in season 6 when Jaime Lannister rides up the steps on his white horse.
5. Ancient walls of Girona
The walls encircle the city with a historic embrace. You can walk along the walls for free. Dating back to Roman times and expanded in medieval periods, these walls stand as a testament to Girona’s enduring history. Walking along their cobbled paths offers a glimpse into the city’s past, offering panoramic views and nostalgia.
You can start either in the south part close to Plaza de Catalunya, or the northern part of the walls close to the Cathedral.
In Catalan the walls are called Muralles de Girona and it’s a must if you are in Girona although in the summer months it can get very hot so bring some water.
6. La Casa dels Fuets
Lastly on our Girona Top 6 list, we have Fuets. Fuets are a type of Catalan dry-cured sausage, cherished for their rich flavour and versatility. Made from pork and flavoured with spices, these slender sausages are air-dried to develop their distinct taste and texture. A popular snack or tapa, fuets are a delicious embodiment of Catalonia’s culinary traditions.
They are 4 euro each or 3 for 10 euros. They offer you to taste before you buy and there are many flavours to choose from!
As always, we have made a YouTube video about Girona. It’s available here:
That’s all from Girona. I hope you got some inspiration to visit this beautiful city.
