From Barcelona: Girona Full day tour

Planning a day trip from Barcelona to explore the historic city of Girona? This full-day tour offers an accessible and engaging way to see one of Catalonia’s most captivating spots. Whether you’re into medieval streets, atmospheric squares, or filming locations from Game of Thrones, this experience has a lot to offer.

We’re here to share what makes this tour stand out—and what to consider before booking. Two things we love: the knowledgeable guides who bring the city’s stories to life, and the stunning views you’ll get walking along the ancient city walls. One possible drawback is the amount of free time, which can feel a bit long for some travelers if you’re eager to see everything quickly. This tour suits history buffs, Game of Thrones fans, and anyone who wants a taste of Girona without the hassle of planning.

You can check availability for your dates here:

This experience made our article of Which Barcelona Full-Day Tours To Choose? We Rank The 15 Best.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary: combines guided tours with free time for personal exploration.
• Comfortable transport: air-conditioned bus makes the roughly 3-hour total travel time pleasant.
• Expert guides: knowledgeable and engaging guides add depth to the experience.
• Flexible options: choose between guided walking tour or just self-exploration.
• Highlights include: Girona Cathedral, Jewish quarter, medieval city walls, and filming sites.
• Good value: at $58, it offers a comprehensive day out with plenty of memorable sights.

This tour from Julia Travel Gray Line Spain is a solid option if you’re after a full day immersed in Girona’s charm. It spans about 9 hours, including transportation, sightseeing, and free time, making it perfect for a day trip. The price of $58 per person is reasonable considering the transportation, guided service, and entrance to key sites like the Cathedral.

What we appreciate most is how this tour balances guided insight with free time. You get a professional guide to walk you through the city’s highlights, plus enough leisure to wander on your own—grab a coffee, take photos, or just soak up the atmosphere.

Starting in Barcelona, you’ll check in at the Julia Travel office at Nord Station and hop onto a comfortable, air-conditioned coach. The drive to Girona takes around 90 minutes, which is just enough time to relax and get excited for what’s ahead. The journey itself is quite scenic, as you leave the bustling city behind and enter the quieter, enchanting streets of Girona.

Once in Girona, your experience will depend on the option you select.

Guided Tour

If you choose the guided tour, expect a two-hour walk led by an experienced local guide. They’ll take you through the historic city center, pointing out key sights and sharing stories about Girona’s Roman roots, medieval architecture, and legends. Stops include:

• Iglesia de San Félix: a picturesque church with a fascinating history.
• Monastery of Sant Pere de Galligants: a beautiful example of medieval architecture.
• Banys Àrabs: the remains of ancient Arab baths, offering a glimpse into Girona’s diverse past.
• Girona Cathedral: one of the city’s most iconic structures, with a stunning Gothic façade and impressive interior.
• Pont de les Peixateries Velles: a charming bridge over the River Onyar, perfect for photos.

The guided part is quite comprehensive, lasting around 2 hours, with the guide sharing local legends and filming spots from Game of Thrones. You’ll love the way they make history lively and engaging, especially for fans of the series.

Free Time

After the guided walk, you’ll have approximately 70 minutes of free time. This is your chance to explore the city on your own. Walk along the colorful houses lining the River Onyar, cross the medieval bridges, or stroll through lively squares. Some travelers mention that the free time might be a bit long—one review notes, “It was nice to see the GOT sights. Our guide was amazing, but I think it’s too long, especially the free time, as after the guided part, you have to wait hours for the bus to return,” highlighting that some might prefer a shorter leisure period.

Inside the free time, you could visit Girona Cathedral (note: entrance is included if you opt for self-guided exploration), or enjoy a leisurely lunch. Keep in mind, if you want to see the cathedral’s interior, it’s an additional cost unless you choose the guided tour that includes entrance.

• Julià Travel Office: Meeting point in Barcelona.
• Bus Journey (1.5 hours): A relaxing ride through Catalonia’s countryside.
• Arrival in Girona: Brief stop for orientation.
• Guided walking tour: 2 hours covering key sights and legends.
• Stops include: San Félix Church, Sant Pere Monastery, Arab Baths, Girona Cathedral, and the historic bridges.
• Free time (about 70 minutes): Explore, enjoy lunch, or visit additional sites at your own pace.
• Return bus journey (1.5 hours): Back to Barcelona, ending the trip.

Considering the price of $58, this tour offers a solid value. The transportation is comfortable, the guides are knowledgeable, and the sites are thoughtfully selected. Plus, the inclusion of the Girona Cathedral (if you choose the self-guided option) and access to key monuments adds to the overall experience.

Many reviewers mention that the guides bring the city’s stories alive, making the visit more memorable. For example, Laura from Germany said, “My guide Jonathan was really nice and took some photos of me because I was traveling alone,” emphasizing the personable nature of the guides. Others appreciated the scenic views, with one stating, “If you are up for a longer walk, walk along the top of the old wall, the views are worth the extra steps,” showing the added value of exploring beyond the itinerary.

That said, some travelers felt the free time was a bit excessive, especially if they wanted to see everything in a shorter window. A few reviews also pointed out that the tour can be quite active, requiring comfortable shoes and a good attitude for walking.

This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts and Game of Thrones fans eager to see filming locations and medieval streets with guided insight. It’s equally suited for travelers who want a stress-free, organized day trip without worrying about transport or navigation. If you’re short on time but want to get a sense of Girona’s atmosphere, this tour packs plenty into a single day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or deeper exploration, the long free time might be a drawback. Also, for those hoping to visit multiple museums or specific sites like the Dali Museum, this trip does not include those extras unless specified.

The From Barcelona: Girona Full Day Tour is a well-rounded option that balances guided sightseeing with free exploration. It provides a manageable way to see a city packed with charm, history, and Hollywood fame, all at a fair price point.

The tour’s highlights—like the city walls, cathedral, and medieval streets—are genuinely impressive and give you a taste of Catalonia’s rich past. The guides, praised for their knowledge and friendliness, add a personal touch that makes the experience memorable.

If you’re up for some walking and want a clean, organized way to visit Girona, this trip is worth considering. Just be aware of the long free time and pack comfortable shoes. It’s a good choice for those who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, guided experience, especially if you’re a fan of history or Game of Thrones.

How early do I need to check in?
You should check in at least 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time at the Julia Travel office in Barcelona Nord Station.

What’s included in the tour?
Transportation on an air-conditioned coach, a 2-hour guided walking tour (if selected), and entrance to Girona Cathedral and Basilica of Sant Feliu (if you choose the self-guided option).

Can I visit the cathedral if I don’t join the guided tour?
Yes, if you explore on your own during the free time, you can visit the cathedral and other sites, but entrance fees may apply unless included.

How long is the bus ride?
The trip to Girona and back takes about 1.5 hours each way, so plan for roughly 3 hours of travel time in total.

Is the tour suitable for those with limited mobility?
Since it involves some walking, especially on cobbled streets and city walls, it may not be ideal for those with mobility issues.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included unless specified. You’ll want to bring some snacks or plan to buy lunch during your free time.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended, as the tour involves walking and exploring outdoor sites.

Is the tour guided in English and Spanish only?
Yes, the tour is conducted in both languages, delivered by knowledgeable guides.

Can I expect a small or large group?
Group size can vary, but guided tours like this typically include a manageable number of participants, ensuring better interaction.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers flexibility if your plans change.

In the end, this Girona tour offers a well-rounded experience that’s worth considering if you want a hassle-free, insightful day exploring one of Catalonia’s most beautiful cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: