Barcelona: Besalú, Dali and Girona Tour

Exploring Catalonia: A Full-Day Tour to Besalú, Girona, and Dalí’s Museum

If you’re planning a trip to Barcelona and craving a break from the city’s bustling streets, this Besalú, Dali, and Girona tour offers a great way to experience some of Catalonia’s most picturesque villages and artistic treasures. While I haven’t done this exact trip myself, I’ve come across plenty of honest reviews and details that paint a pretty clear picture of what you can expect.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines different elements: charming medieval towns, a surrealist art experience, and stunning panoramic views. Plus, the fact that it’s a private group means you won’t be stuck with noisy crowds or a large tour bus. On the flip side, it’s a full eight hours out of your day, so it’s worth considering your stamina and interest level. This kind of experience seems perfect for those who love a mix of history, art, and scenic vistas—ideal for travelers who want a balanced, well-rounded day without sacrificing comfort.

One possible consideration is the cost of around $340 per person. While that includes a guided tour, transportation, tickets, and hotel pickup, it’s good to weigh whether the value matches your travel style — especially if you’re more of a casual explorer. If you enjoy guided trips that do all the planning and take you through multiple highlights in one go, then this could be a real time-saver.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate a structured, immersive experience with a bit of everything—history, art, views—and who prefer exploring with a guide rather than on their own. It’s also a good option if you want to pack a lot into one day, especially if you’re short on time but want a taste of Catalonia’s beauty and culture.

Key Points

• All-in-one experience: Combines medieval villages, a surrealist art museum, and panoramic city views.
• Expert guidance: You’ll have a knowledgeable guide-driver to navigate and provide context.
• Comfort and convenience: Pickup and drop-off included, with transportation adapted to your group size.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, perfect for flexible plans.
• Cultural immersion: Walk through historic streets, visit Romanesque and Gothic churches, and see Dalí’s art in a museum designed by the artist himself.
• Great for art lovers: The Dalí Museum is an unexpected highlight that exceeds many expectations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting from Barcelona: The Journey Begins

The day kicks off with hotel pickup, which is a real timesaver. The guide will contact you beforehand, so you won’t have to worry about navigating to a meeting point. Once on the road, you’ll be traveling in a vehicle suited to your group size—this ensures a comfortable ride, especially for a full eight hours of sightseeing.

Visiting Besalú: Medieval Charm and Photogenic Spots

The first stop is Besalú, a village so beautiful it has been called one of the most photogenic in Spain by National Geographic. The main highlight here is the Old Bridge, believed to date back to the 11th century, built over an ancient Roman bridge and rebuilt several times—most recently after civil war destruction. Walking across this bridge feels like stepping back in time, with its towers and small arch adding to the medieval charm.

Beyond the bridge, you’ll wander through the streets and facades that showcase Besalú’s medieval heritage. The town’s ecclesiastical buildings, such as Sant Pere, Santa Maria, and Sant Vicenç churches, are Romanesque and Gothic, offering a glimpse into the architectural styles of earlier centuries. The Jewish quarter is another highlight—well-preserved and packed with history, it’s one of the best on the peninsula.

The Surreal World of Dalí in Figueres

Next, it’s time to visit the Dalí Museum in Figueres. Designed by Dalí himself, the museum is as flamboyant as the artist, with an extravagant facade and quirky installations. Inside, you’re treated to a collection of Dalí’s works—from paintings and sculptures to mind-bending installations that challenge perceptions.

Many reviews mention that even those who aren’t art buffs find this museum captivating. One reviewer said, “The Dalí Museum exceeds expectations, with not just paintings but installations that make you think differently about art and the world.” It’s a surreal experience, and you’ll likely find yourself marveling at his creativity and eccentricity.

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Lunch Break Options

After the museum, there’s time for lunch. Options include a Mediterranean restaurant close to Figueres or a traditional tapas spot. While lunch isn’t included in the tour, the variety allows for flexibility, whether you want a sit-down meal or quick bites. It’s a good opportunity to relax and soak in the local flavors.

Passing Through Girona: The Historic City

On the way back to Barcelona, the tour makes a stop in Girona, a city famed for its well-preserved Jewish quarter, medieval walls, and colorful houses lining the river. The Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra) offers fantastic views of the Onyar River and the vibrant buildings—perfect for photos.

The Girona Cathedral is a must-see, with its impressive baroque facade and the widest Gothic nave in the world. This cathedral has also been a filming location for Game of Thrones, adding a layer of pop culture to the medieval charm.

Walking along the city walls provides sweeping views of Girona and beyond. Many reviews praise this walk as a highlight, citing the panoramic vistas as “spectacular” and “worth the effort.” It’s a chance to see the city from above and appreciate its defensive history.

Wrapping Up and Return to Barcelona

After exploring Girona, the group will head back to Barcelona, concluding a busy but rewarding day. The entire experience wraps up with a drop-off at your hotel, making it easy to rest after a full day of sightseeing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is particularly suited for travelers who enjoy a blend of history, art, and scenic vistas. It’s perfect if you prefer guided tours that handle the logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the sights. The inclusion of Dalí’s Museum will appeal to art enthusiasts, while the medieval villages will resonate with those who love architecture and history.

If you’re short on time in Barcelona but want to get a taste of the surrounding region, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot. Keep in mind, it’s an 8-hour commitment, so good footwear and a sense of adventure will help you make the most of it.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup and drop-off at your hotel are included, with transportation tailored to your group size for maximum comfort.

How long is the tour?
It lasts about 8 hours, making it a full-day experience. Check availability for specific starting times.

Are tickets for the Dalí Museum and Girona Cathedral included?
Yes, the tour includes tickets for the Dalí Museum and Girona Cathedral, so you won’t need to worry about extra costs for entry.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, camera, weather-appropriate clothing, and a positive attitude are recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The information doesn’t specify, but given the focus on historic sites and art, it’s likely more suited for adult travelers or older children interested in history and art.

Is there an option to pay later?
Yes, you can reserve your spot now and pay later, which adds flexibility to planning.

What languages are available?
Guides speak Arabic, Spanish, and English; audio guides are available in French, Italian, Portuguese, and German.

Final Thoughts

This Barcelona day trip to Besalú, Girona, and Dalí’s Museum offers a satisfying mix of scenic beauty, cultural history, and artistic wonder. It’s a solid choice if you’re after a well-organized experience that covers diverse interests, all in one day. The stops are meaningful, the views are often praised as “spectacular,” and the guided aspect ensures you won’t get lost in the details.

While it’s on the pricier side, the inclusion of tickets, transportation, and a guide makes it a convenient way to see some of Catalonia’s most captivating spots without the hassle of planning everything yourself. Just be ready for a full day, and you’ll likely come away with a deeper appreciation for the region’s charm.

If you love photography, history, or surrealist art, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip. It’s also a great pick for those who want a guided, stress-free day of exploring—leaving you free to enjoy the views and the stories behind them.

You can check availability for your dates here: