Barcelona: Girona Private City tour

If you’re planning a visit to Barcelona and craving a taste of something a bit different, a private Girona tour is a fantastic option. This experience offers a chance to step into a city that feels like walking through a living postcard—medieval streets, stunning architecture, and a history that’s practically palpable. We haven’t done this specific tour ourselves, but based on the details and reviews, it sounds like a balanced way to explore Girona comfortably, especially if you’re short on time but eager to see the highlights.

What we really like about this tour is its private setup—meaning you’re not part of a large group, so you can enjoy a more personalized experience. The scenic drive in a premium car or van makes the journey pleasant and stress-free, especially if you’re traveling with luggage or prefer extra comfort. Plus, the guided walking tour means you get expert insights into Girona’s most iconic sites. A minor consideration is that it’s a full-day trip, so you’ll want to be prepared for some walking and a fairly packed schedule.

This experience seems best suited for those who value comfort and flexibility, are interested in history and architecture, and prefer a more intimate tour without the crowds. It’s a great way to combine sightseeing with travel ease, making the most of your day from Barcelona.

Key Points

Comfortable private transport makes the drive easy and relaxing.
Expert guides bring Girona’s history and architecture to life.
Visiting key sites like the Gothic cathedral and Jewish Quarter offers cultural insight.
Flexible itinerary options with the chance to include Besalú.
Ideal for those wanting a full-day, immersive experience without the hassle of navigating alone.
Good balance of structured tour and free time for spontaneous exploration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose a Private Girona Tour?

This tour provides a relaxed yet comprehensive way to see Girona, especially if you’re short on time or prefer personalized attention. Traveling in a luxurious vehicle means you won’t have to worry about public transportation or crowded buses, and the private guide ensures you get tailored commentary suited to your interests. It’s a hassle-free way to cover all the main sights without feeling rushed.

The scenic drive itself is a highlight, giving you a chance to enjoy Catalonia’s landscapes along the way. Once in the city, your guide will lead you through narrow medieval streets, pointing out details you might miss on your own. You’ll visit historic landmarks like the impressive Gothic cathedral and the charming Jewish Quarter, both of which are rich with stories and architectural delights.

This tour is especially appealing for travelers who want to maximize their sightseeing in a limited time or prefer a more intimate, guided experience. Families might enjoy the comfortable transport and manageable walking, but it’s primarily suited for adults or older travelers interested in history and architecture.

Breaking Down the Itinerary

Pickup in Barcelona and Scenic Drive

Your day begins with a pickup from your hotel, making the experience seamless. Traveling in a premium car or van guarantees a smooth ride and a comfortable start. The drive to Girona takes around 1.5 hours, during which you can relax and perhaps plan what to focus on once you arrive. The scenic route is a chance to get a quick glimpse of Catalonia’s lush countryside.

Exploring Girona with a Guide

Once there, your local expert guide takes over for about three hours, leading you through Girona’s medieval streets. We love the idea of wandering through narrow alleyways, seeing the colorful houses lining the river, and learning the stories behind the iconic bridges. The guide’s insights help bring the city’s history alive, making each corner more meaningful.

Key sites include:

• Gothic cathedral: An architectural masterpiece, with a stunning façade and an interior worth exploring. Guides often emphasize its impressive size and historical significance.
• Jewish Quarter: A labyrinth of ancient streets where you’ll learn about Girona’s Jewish community’s legacy, which adds depth to your visit.
• Old church of Sant Feliu: A quieter, historical church that offers a different perspective on Girona’s spiritual past.

More Great Tours Nearby

Leisurely Walk along the River

The stroll along the river reveals Girona’s vibrant colors—houses painted in pastel shades and picturesque bridges connecting different parts of the city. This part of the tour is perfect for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

Optional Extension to Besalú

If you’re interested, there’s an upgrade option to include Besalú, another medieval town famed for its well-preserved architecture and scenic setting. This extension offers an even deeper dive into the region’s history but will add time to your trip.

Return to Barcelona

After your exploration, the trip back takes about another 1.5 hours, giving you time to unwind and reflect on the day. The drop-off at your hotel wraps up the experience smoothly, leaving you free for the rest of your evening.

What Our Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight the comfort and convenience of the private transport, emphasizing that it makes the day stress-free. One reviewer mentioned, “The drive was so relaxing, and the guide’s insights made Girona come alive in a way I didn’t expect.” Others appreciate the personalized experience, noting that the guide tailored the commentary to their interests.

Some mention that the walking can be tiring because the streets are narrow and cobbled, so comfy shoes are recommended. Overall, reviews suggest that the balance of guided sightseeing and free time works well for most visitors.

Pros and Cons of the Tour

Pros

• Private transport means no waiting or crowded buses.
• Expert guides provide engaging, insightful commentary.
• Visits to main landmarks like Girona’s cathedral and Jewish Quarter.
• The option to upgrade with an extension to Besalú.
• Flexible scheduling with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Cons

• The full-day commitment might be a challenge for those with limited time or stamina.
• Walking through narrow, uneven streets requires comfortable shoes.
• Although the tour is private, it may feel a bit rushed if you want to linger longer at each site.

Pricing and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, it’s important to consider that a private tour of this scope—including transportation, guided sightseeing, and flexible options—is typically a good value for those wanting a comprehensive, personalized experience. The convenience of door-to-door pickup and the ability to customize the itinerary make it appealing, especially for travelers seeking comfort and expert insights.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This Girona tour is ideal for travelers who want a stress-free, guided day out of Barcelona, without sacrificing comfort or personalized attention. It’s well-suited for those interested in architecture, history, and charming medieval scenery. If you prefer a structured itinerary with a knowledgeable guide, and don’t mind a full-day trip, this experience should suit you.

It’s also a good choice for visitors who want to avoid the hassle of public transport or navigating unfamiliar streets alone. Families with older children might find it manageable, but it’s primarily geared toward adults and older travelers who appreciate historical sites and scenic walks.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for families?
While it’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, families with older children who enjoy walking and history might find it enjoyable. Comfortable shoes and a full day’s commitment are factors to consider.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour guide speaks Catalan, English, and Spanish, so you can choose your preferred language.

How long is the drive from Barcelona to Girona?
The journey takes around 1.5 hours each way, in a comfortable premium vehicle.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, giving you flexibility if your plans change.

Is there an option to extend the tour to Besalú?
Yes, you can upgrade for an extension to visit the medieval town of Besalú.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through narrow, cobbled streets.

How much time is spent sightseeing in Girona?
Approximately three hours, guided by a local expert, covering main sites and some free time.

Will I have free time to explore on my own?
Yes, after the guided tour, there’s some free time, and the optional extension allows for more exploration.

Is this tour good for those with mobility issues?
Since it involves walking through narrow and uneven streets, it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

What is included in the price?
Transport in a luxury vehicle, guided tour, and hotel pickup/drop-off are included. The Besalú extension is an optional upgrade.

Final Thoughts

A private day trip to Girona from Barcelona offers an excellent way to enjoy Catalonia’s medieval charm without the stress of navigating alone. You’ll benefit from the comfort of private transport, a knowledgeable guide, and the flexibility to tailor your experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed but immersive day, especially if you’re a history buff or architecture enthusiast.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the convenience and personalized touch make it worthwhile. Whether you’re visiting for a quick getaway or looking to enrich your Barcelona trip with a taste of the countryside’s historic splendor, this tour could be just what you need. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes and come ready to soak in Girona’s timeless beauty.

In essence, this private Girona tour is a well-rounded, comfortable way to see one of Catalonia’s most captivating towns, making it a memorable addition to your travel plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: