Girona and Costa Brava Private Tour with Pick-up from Barcelona

If you’re considering a day trip that combines history, scenic views, and a touch of local flavor, the Girona and Costa Brava Private Tour might be just what you need. While we haven’t personally taken this exact journey, reviews and details paint a pretty compelling picture. It’s a chance to step outside Barcelona’s lively streets and soak in the quieter, more picturesque corners of Catalonia.

What really catches our eye are the personalized experience—being a private tour means fewer crowds and more space for questions and leisurely exploration. Plus, the stunning coastal views along Costa Brava seem to be a major highlight, making it a favorite for travelers who love scenery and photography. On the flip side, it’s a full-day commitment, so it’s best suited for those ready for a bit of a tour rather than a relaxed, spontaneous day on the beach.

One thing to keep in mind is that this trip is geared towards sightseeing and cultural exploration, not beach lounging or swimming. If that’s your priority, you might want to look elsewhere. But if you appreciate history, breathtaking views, and a well-organized, comfortable journey, this tour is likely to tick many boxes. It’s especially suited for those short on time but eager to see a lot in one day.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Private tour tailored for your group ensures a more relaxed and intimate outing.
• Stunning Coastal Scenery: The Costa Brava viewpoints and coves are a major draw for photographers and nature lovers.
• In-Depth Girona Exploration: Includes highlights like the cathedral, Jewish Quarter, and Game of Thrones filming locations.
• Comfortable Transportation: Travel in a spacious Mercedes van, with bottled water included.
• Ideal for Time-Constrained Travelers: Covering both city and coast in roughly 9 hours makes it perfect for a quick but comprehensive escape.
• Not Focused on Beaches: The stops are for sightseeing and scenic views, not swimming or sunbathing.

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting from Barcelona: The Comfort of a Private Transfer

Your day begins with a pick-up from your hotel, apartment, cruise port, or airport in Barcelona. This service is a real plus, saving you the hassle of figuring out public transport or negotiating taxis. The journey to Girona takes about an hour, during which your guide might share some initial insights or tips.

The vehicle is a luxurious Mercedes van, spacious enough for everyone to relax comfortably—something that many travelers appreciate, especially after an early morning or a long flight.

Exploring Girona’s Historic Heart

Once in Girona, the tour kicks off with a guided walking tour of the city. Girona isn’t just a collection of old buildings—it’s a living museum with streets that date back to the first century. It’s a place that feels both historical and vibrant, with plenty of photo opportunities.

One of the first sights is the exterior of Girona’s oldest church, Esglesia de Sant Feliu. Although the church’s interior isn’t included in this tour, the exterior itself is impressive—a mix of architectural styles spanning centuries. As one reviewer noted, “construction began in the 4th century and continued over 1300 years,” which gives you a sense of the depth of history here.

Next, you’ll walk along the Onyar River, where the colorful buildings lining the banks create one of the most recognizable postcards of Girona. Crossing the quaint bridges offers a different perspective of the city, blending old-world charm with lively local life.

The Girona Cathedral and Game of Thrones Magic

A highlight for many visitors is the Girona Cathedral, with its impressive façade and the fact that its exterior was featured in the popular “Game of Thrones” series. Walking through the narrow streets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a fantasy film set, adding a fun layer of excitement to the tour.

The Jewish Quarter (El Call) is another core part of the itinerary, where your guide will share stories of Girona’s once-thriving Jewish community. Walking these cobblestone streets, you get a tangible sense of the neighborhood’s significance, echoing with tales of resilience and contribution.

Scenic Transition to Costa Brava

After soaking up Girona’s history and charm, the tour moves towards the coast, starting with a visit to Calella de Palafrugell, a picturesque fishing village known for its breathtaking viewpoints. Here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the coves and rugged coastline—perfect for photo ops.

From there, the journey continues to Aiguablava, where a panoramic viewpoint offers a dramatic view of the turquoise waters and rocky cliffs. Just as one reviewer described, “you’ll be mesmerized by the dramatic coastal landscapes and the crystal-clear waters,” making it a favorite stop.

Lunch and Leisure in Tamariu

The tour allows for about an hour of free time in Tamariu, a serene beach town ideal for grabbing a bite. While the tour doesn’t focus on beach activities, you’ll have the chance to relax, enjoy fresh seafood, and admire the tranquil scenery. Many reviews mention the quality of the food and the lovely local restaurants, which seem to be well-chosen by guides.

The Final Coastal Viewpoint: Far de Sant Sebastià

The tour wraps up with a visit to the Lighthouse of Sant Sebastià, perched high above the coastline. From this vantage point, you can gaze down at the Llafranc beaches and take in some truly unforgettable views that many travelers find to be the perfect ending to their day.

Why This Tour Works Well

The private aspect of this tour really stands out. You won’t be part of a large, noisy crowd, and your guide can tailor the experience based on your interests and pace. Multiple reviews praise guides like Adrian for their knowledge, friendliness, and flexibility, which makes the day not only informative but also enjoyable.

The scenic stops along Costa Brava are particularly valued, with travelers noting the breathtaking viewpoints and hidden beauty spots. These are not typical tourist traps but carefully selected spots that offer memorable vistas and great photo opportunities.

The walks through Girona strike a good balance—enough to get a sense of the city’s past, without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The inclusion of “Game of Thrones” filming locations adds a fun twist for fans of the series.

What About the Cost?

At around $203 per person, this tour is on the pricier side, but many reviewers feel it’s a worthwhile investment given the personalized service, comfort, and the depth of sightseeing. The tour includes pick-up and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, and bottled water, which add value and convenience.

A Few Considerations

• The tour is quite full, so it requires a reasonable level of mobility. The walks are mostly on cobblestone streets, which could be challenging for some.
• Since stops in Costa Brava are for sightseeing, not swimming, if your goal is beach time, this isn’t the ideal trip.
• It’s best suited for those who want a rundown of Girona and Costa Brava in one day, rather than a relaxed, unstructured holiday.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to explore Catalonia’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail yourself, this private Girona and Costa Brava tour offers a great mix of history, scenery, and comfort. The consistently high reviews speak to the quality of the guides and the memorable experiences provided.

It’s particularly suited for travelers who value knowledgeable guides, scenic viewpoints, and personalized service. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of beautiful landscapes, or just want to see some of the most photogenic spots in the region, this trip seems to deliver.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour is primarily focused on sightseeing and walking, families with children who can handle cobblestone streets and a full day of touring may enjoy it. It’s not explicitly marketed as a kid-friendly tour, so consider your children’s stamina and interests.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers pick-up and drop-off from your accommodation, private transportation in a Mercedes van, a guided walking tour of Girona, sightseeing stops along Costa Brava, and bottled water.

Are meals included?
No, meals or drinks are not included, but there is a scheduled stop in Tamariu for you to enjoy lunch at your own expense.

How long is the drive from Barcelona to Girona?
It’s approximately an hour each way, making it a comfortable transfer that leaves plenty of time for sightseeing once you arrive.

Can I customize the tour?
Since it’s a private experience, the guide can tailor parts of the trip based on your interests or pace, making it adaptable for your preferences.

What about accessibility?
Most stops involve walking on cobblestone streets, so if mobility is an issue, it’s worth mentioning beforehand. The vehicle is spacious and air-conditioned for comfort.

Is this tour worth the price?
Many travelers believe so, especially given the personalized service, scenic viewpoints, and the convenience of door-to-door transfers. The glowing reviews highlight excellent guides and unforgettable views as key value points.

What if I have limited time in Barcelona?
This tour packs a lot into about 9 hours, making it an efficient way to see both Girona and Costa Brava without sacrificing depth or comfort.

In sum, this private day tour strikes a good balance between cultural exploration and scenic beauty, tailored to those who want a seamless, personal experience. Whether you’re a first-timer or returning visitor eager to see a different side of Catalonia, it’s a trip worth considering.