From Barcelona: Girona, Besalú & Medieval Villages Day Trip

Discover Catalonia’s Charm: A Detailed Look at the Girona, Besalú & Medieval Villages Day Trip

If you’re wandering through Barcelona and craving a taste of the region’s quieter, historic side, this guided day trip to Girona, Besalú, and Castellfollit de la Roca is worth considering. From what we’ve gathered, it offers a well-rounded glimpse into Catalonia’s past and its scenic beauty — all within a manageable 9-hour itinerary.

What really catches our eye? The chance to stroll through medieval streets that seem frozen in time, and the opportunity to stand on cliffs that offer panoramic views. The fact that the tour is limited to just 8 people makes the experience feel intimate and personalized, which is a huge plus.

One potential drawback? The tour involves quite a bit of driving and walking, so if you’re not keen on moderate activity or have mobility concerns, it might be less ideal. Still, for those who love history, architecture, and landscape photography, this tour hits many sweet spots. It’s particularly suited for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling and cultural insights, and those who want a full day of exploration without the hassle of planning each stop.

Key Points

• Intimate small group setting enhances the experience and allows for personalized attention from guides.
• Diverse stops: medieval towns, dramatic cliffs, and historic villages, each offering unique sights and stories.
• Comfortable transportation makes the journey between sites smooth, with air conditioning to keep you cool.
• Rich commentary from guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, making history come alive.
• Tasty local food options available, with a traditional Catalan lunch that complements the cultural experience.
• Flexible plans: some free time at each stop allows for personal exploration or rest.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

The day begins early, with a central Barcelona pickup at Pg. de Gràcia, which is convenient for most travelers based in the city. After a roughly 75-minute drive, you’ll arrive in Girona, a city packed with history and vibrant life. We loved the way guides highlight Girona’s compelling landmarks like the Santa Maria Cathedral and its Jewish Quarter — and how they connect local history to the city’s current vibe.

The guided tour of Girona lasts about an hour and a half, giving you plenty of time to snap photos, browse local markets, or just soak in the lively atmosphere. Visitors have praised the guides for their passion and knowledge, with many mentioning how well they explained Girona’s significance. One traveler noted, “Guillaume guided us on the tour and I loved it… very attentive and dedicated to the group.”

From Girona, the journey continues through the Catalan countryside to Castellfollit de la Roca, a tiny village perched on volcanic cliffs. The views here are genuinely spectacular, with towering basalt formations creating a dramatic backdrop. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll feel like you’re on the set of a fairy tale. The visit includes a stop at the Church of Sant Salvador, which offers panoramic vistas and fantastic photo opportunities — perfect for anyone who loves landscapes.

Next, you’ll stop for a traditional Catalan lunch, which adds flavor (literally) to the day. Dishes like pa amb tomàquet (bread with tomato), botifarra (grilled sausage), or hearty stews are typically on the menu. Many reviews mention how delicious and authentic the food is, with some guides recommending specific local delicacies like xuxo and magdalenas.

After lunch, the tour takes you to Besalú, arguably one of the most photogenic medieval villages in Catalonia. Its 12th-century Romanesque bridge, spanning the Fluvià River, is an iconic sight that instantly transports you back in time. The guided walk through Besalú’s cobbled streets is full of stories about its rich history, including its Jewish community — evidenced by the preserved Miqvé, a Jewish ritual bath, which is rare to find in Europe.

Guests have raved about how well the guides keep the stories engaging and how much they enjoy exploring at their own pace after the tour. Some mention that local craft shops and the village square are perfect for relaxing or picking up souvenirs.

The return drive to Barcelona offers scenic countryside views, and most travelers appreciate the comfort of the air-conditioned van after a full day of sightseeing. The trip wraps up at the original meeting point, leaving you with plenty of stories and photos to cherish.

Why This Tour Stands Out

The main strength of this experience lies in the knowledgeable guides. Several reviews highlight how passionate and well-informed the guides are — they don’t just give facts but share stories, legends, and personal insights that bring the towns to life. For example, one traveler shared, “He accompanied us and guided us throughout the activity in a very professional and enjoyable way,” emphasizing the personal touch.

The selection of stops is also noteworthy. Girona offers a lively mix of Romanesque architecture and bustling markets, making it perfect for history buffs and culture lovers. Castellfollit de la Roca’s dramatic cliffside views are a highlight for landscape photographers or anyone who appreciates natural beauty combined with history. Besalú’s well-preserved medieval architecture and the Romanesque bridge provide a literal window into the past.

On top of that, the value for the price is quite favorable. For $88, you get transportation, guided tours, and entrance fees to key attractions in Besalú — a package that covers most of what you’d want to see on your own but with the convenience of a guided experience. The small group size makes the tour feel exclusive and allows for more interaction and flexibility.

The food aspect also adds to the overall appeal. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed the Catalan lunch — a chance to taste authentic regional dishes in a local setting. This is often a highlight, especially for those who appreciate culinary experiences alongside sightseeing.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

This tour lasts about 9 hours, starting in central Barcelona. The pick-up point is in front of the BBVA bank, which is easy to find. You should bring comfortable shoes because there’s a fair amount of walking, especially at the villages and on cobblestone streets. Weather-appropriate clothing is recommended, as you’ll be outdoors quite a bit.

The transportation is air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable ride between sites. The tour is rated very highly, with a 4.9 out of 5 from 43 reviews, largely thanks to the guides’ professionalism and the stunning locations visited.

Since food isn’t included in the base price, you might want to budget for snacks and drinks, though the included lunch is often enough to satisfy most. It’s also worth noting that the tour does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan your logistics accordingly.

The tour is suitable for most travelers who can handle moderate walking. It’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or very young children, but for anyone else who enjoys history, scenic views, and small-group tours, it’s a solid choice.

The Bottom Line

This day trip offers an excellent, manageable way to see some of Catalonia’s most distinctive medieval towns and landscapes without the stress of planning or driving. The combination of well-preserved architecture, breathtaking cliffs, and lively markets makes for a richly textured experience. The guides’ passion and knowledge turn this from just a sightseeing tour into an engaging cultural journey.

If you’re someone who loves history, scenic views, and local flavors, and you don’t mind a full day on the move, this trip is likely to be a highlight of your visit to Barcelona. It’s particularly appealing if you’re traveling with a small group, valuing personalized attention and authentic storytelling over cookie-cutter tours.

On the flip side, if you prefer relaxed, leisurely days or have mobility concerns, you might want to consider whether a full day of walking and small-group dynamics will suit you. But for most active, curious travelers, this tour hits the right notes.

FAQs

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? No, the tour begins and ends at a designated point in front of the BBVA bank in central Barcelona. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to and from this meeting point.

How long is the drive between sites? The drive to Girona takes about 75 minutes, then about 50 minutes to Castellfollit de la Roca, and around 15 minutes to Besalú. The return trip is approximately 1.5 hours, all in a comfortable air-conditioned van.

What is included in the price? Your fee covers transportation, a professional English-Spanish speaking guide, and entrance fees to key attractions in Besalú. Food and drinks are not included but are available for purchase during the day.

Is the tour suitable for children? It’s best suited for travelers capable of moderate walking and standing. While not specifically designed as a family tour, older children and teenagers who enjoy history and scenic views should find it engaging.

How much free time do I get at each stop? In Girona, the guided tour lasts about 1.5 hours, with some free time afterwards. At Besalú, you get roughly 2 hours free after the guided tour to explore on your own. Castellfollit de la Roca is mainly a stop for photos and sightseeing during the guided walk.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes are essential. Consider weather-appropriate clothing, a camera, snacks, and water for the journey, especially if you plan to explore markets or walk around at your own pace.

How many people are in the group? The tour is limited to 8 participants, making it feel intimate and allowing for personalized attention from your guide.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

Is there an option to upgrade or customize the experience? The basic tour doesn’t specify upgrades, but you can opt for the traditional Catalan lunch, which is often offered as an add-on or part of certain packages.

If you’re after a day blending history, stunning scenery, and authentic local flavor, this Girona, Besalú & Medieval Villages trip from Barcelona deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s a chance to step away from the city and into a storybook setting, guided by passionate locals who want to share Catalonia’s hidden gems with you.

You can check availability for your dates here: