Girona: what to see, what to do and how to discover it from the Costa Brava

Girona is a city located in the northeast of Catalonia, between Barcelona and the French border, and one of the most complete and surprising destinations in the Mediterranean. A provincial capital, university city and architectural gem, it combines millennia of history, world-class gastronomy and an exceptional natural environment.

Beyond its status as a city, Girona has a close and authentic character that leads many to describe it as a large charming town. It is no coincidence that there is a widely shared idea among visitors, "Girona enchants", nor that its streets are full of history and legends that invite you to return.

But Girona is not just its capital. The province as a whole is a destination in itself: from the turquoise coves of the Costa Brava to inland medieval villages, passing through the volcanic landscapes of La Garrotxa or the vineyards of the DO Empordà. To discover it at your own pace, Hotel Aigua Blava, in Begur, is one of the best starting points: less than an hour from the city of Girona and just minutes from some of the most beautiful coves on the coast.

Girona city: living history within its walls

The city of Girona brings together centuries of history in an old town best explored on foot, unhurriedly and with the feeling of discovering something authentic at every corner. Crossed by the Onyar River and connected by iconic bridges, it is a city that does not need explanation: it is understood by walking through it.

The Barri Vell, the old quarter, is the heart of the visit. The Roman-origin walls allow you to walk around the city from above, among gardens and viewpoints overlooking the rooftops. The Girona Cathedral, with its impressive Baroque staircase and the widest Gothic nave in the world, is one of the city’s great symbols and a must-see.

A short walk away, the Jewish Quarter is one of the best-preserved medieval Jewish neighborhoods in Europe: a network of narrow streets, stairways and courtyards that maintains its original atmosphere. The Arab Baths, the Art Museum and the monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants complete an exceptional cultural route within just a few kilometers.

From the Pont de Pedra, especially at sunset, the view of the cathedral reflected in the Onyar River and the colorful houses is one of Girona’s most iconic images. The Pont de les Peixateries Velles, known as the Eiffel Bridge, is another essential stop.

Girona’s gastronomy: Mediterranean tradition and local produce

Today, Girona is one of the most renowned gastronomic capitals in Europe, but its essence goes far beyond haute cuisine. The foundation of its gastronomy is traditional Mediterranean cuisine, where local produce, seasonality and respect for ingredients take center stage.

In the city of Girona, one must-try is the xuixo de Girona, a traditional pastry filled with cream that is part of the local identity. But it is across the entire province where gastronomy reaches its full richness, with products and recipes deeply connected to the territory.

Among the most notable products are the Poma de Girona, the anchovies from L’Escala, the Palamós prawns and the Pals rice, all recognized for their quality. These are complemented by traditional dishes such as suquet de peix, one of the most representative seafood stews of the Costa Brava.

The wines of the DO Empordà, with a Mediterranean character and growing international recognition, complete a gastronomic offering that combines tradition and modernity.

From Hotel Aigua Blava, you can enjoy this Mediterranean cuisine in a privileged setting, with sea views and a carefully curated selection of dishes made with local products that reflect the essence of Costa Brava gastronomy.

Festivals and culture in Girona

Girona has a rich cultural calendar that is an essential part of the city experience. Throughout the year, certain events completely transform its atmosphere and make any visit even more special.

The Temps de Flors, held every spring, usually in May, is one of the most unique events in Catalonia. For several days, historic courtyards, streets, monuments and spaces usually closed to the public are transformed into floral installations that turn Girona into an open-air museum. This is complemented by concerts, exhibitions and free access to many cultural spaces, creating a unique experience for both first-time visitors and returning travelers.

In autumn, the Fires de Sant Narcís, the main festival of Girona, fill the city with life for a week around October 24. The Devesa Park becomes the center of the celebration, with rides, markets and a wide gastronomic offering, while the popular Barraques host concerts and activities every night. Tradition, music and local life come together in one of the most authentic ways to experience Girona from within.

The Costa Brava: Girona’s coastline

The Costa Brava is Girona’s maritime expression and one of the most valued coastlines in the Mediterranean. Stretching over more than 200 kilometers, it combines cliffs, crystal-clear coves and fishing villages with a wide variety of landscapes.

The Baix Empordà area is home to some of the most iconic coves: Aiguablava, Sa Tuna, Tamariu or Calella de Palafrugell. Many of them retain a protected natural environment that allows you to enjoy the sea in peace.

The coastal paths (caminos de ronda), which run along the coastline between coves and cliffs, are one of the best ways to discover this coast. From Aigua Blava, several of these routes are easily accessible.

The most beautiful villages in Girona

Inland, the province of Girona is home to some of the best-preserved medieval villages in Catalonia. Peratallada, Pals and Monells stand out for their stone architecture and untouched atmosphere. Besalú, with its Romanesque bridge, is one of the most impressive historic ensembles, while Cadaqués offers a unique combination of landscape, art and Mediterranean tradition.

The proximity between these charming villages makes it easy to visit them on day trips from Hotel Aigua Blava, combining heritage, gastronomy and scenery.

Girona, a bike-friendly city

Girona is one of the most renowned cycling destinations in Europe and a regular training base for professional cyclists. Its network of secondary roads, natural surroundings and strong cycling culture make it an ideal place to explore by bike, whether for demanding routes or more relaxed rides.

For those wishing to discover the region on two wheels, Hotel Aigua Blava offers a bike rental service directly at the hotel, making it easy to combine routes through the Baix Empordà with a visit to the city of Girona and its surroundings.

Girona from Hotel Aigua Blava

Hotel Aigua Blava, located in Begur, allows you to discover Girona from a privileged location. The city is less than an hour away, while the most beautiful coves of the Costa Brava are just minutes from the hotel.

From here, you can easily combine cultural visits, beach days and trips to medieval villages with complete comfort.

Discover Girona at your own pace

Girona combines history, landscape, gastronomy and sea in a balance that is hard to find in other Mediterranean destinations. Whether for a cultural getaway, a gastronomic holiday or a few days of relaxation by the sea, it offers a complete and well-rounded experience.

From Hotel Aigua Blava, this experience can be enjoyed at a relaxed pace, alternating exploration and rest in one of the most privileged settings on the Costa Brava.