From Barcelona: Girona, Games of Thrones Tour

If you’re looking to combine a scenic escape from Barcelona with a touch of medieval magic and some of the most recognizable filming locations from Game of Thrones, this tour might just be worth considering. It’s a well-rated experience with rave reviews, and for good reason: it offers a full day of exploration, knowledgeable guides, and stunning views. But, as with any trip, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Two aspects we really appreciate are the expert guides, who are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, and the beautiful, historic city of Girona, which provides a perfect backdrop for both history lovers and fans of the TV series. The value for money also looks solid, especially considering the included transportation, guided tour, and free time. However, a potential downside is that some reviewers felt the guided commentary could be more detailed, and the free time might feel a little on the short side for those wanting a leisurely lunch or extensive sightseeing.

This tour is ideal for history buffs, Game of Thrones fans, or anyone wanting a quick but meaningful look at one of Catalonia’s most charming towns. If you’re short on time but eager to see a new city with plenty of photo ops and storytelling, it could be just the right fit.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation makes the journey smooth and relaxing.
• Guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge, which enhances the experience.
• Girona offers a stunning mixture of medieval architecture, scenic river views, and historic sites.
• Free time allows you to explore at your own pace, but some find it too brief.
• Game of Thrones filming sites add an extra layer of interest for fans.
• The cost is reasonable, especially considering the included transport and guided tour.
• Weather doesn’t stop the tour—it’s operated in all conditions, so dress accordingly.
• The group size is kept small enough (max 30 travelers) for a more personalized experience.
• Booking well in advance (about 6 weeks on average) helps secure your spot.

A Deep Dive into the Girona & Thrones Experience

This tour kicks off early, with pickup at Julià Travel’s central Barcelona location around 8:30 am. From there, it’s about a 1.5-hour ride in a comfy, air-conditioned coach to Girona, a city that’s a feast for the eyes and the history lover’s heart. The coach ride itself is smooth, and most travelers find it a good way to transition from city bustle to medieval calm.

The Walk Through Girona’s Historic Heart

Once in Girona, your guide leads you through a two-hour walking tour of the Old Town. Here’s where the city’s charm truly shines, with narrow cobbled streets, pastel-colored houses along the river, and ancient walls that still stand proud. Many reviews note how knowledgeable guides, like Nuria and Silvia, bring the city’s stories to life—highlighting myths, legends, and interesting tidbits that make history feel fresh and relevant.

You’ll visit Girona Cathedral, a stunning Gothic masterpiece built in the 14th century. From the steps outside, you get an incredible view of the old town and the river, which makes for perfect photos. The tour also includes a walk along the medieval city walls, offering sweeping vistas and a sense of stepping back in time.

Seeing the Game of Thrones Filming Sites

One of the main draws for many is the chance to see the actual locations where Game of Thrones filmed its sixth season scenes. The exterior of the cathedral and the medieval walls are among the spots where those iconic shots were taken. Several reviewers have expressed how exciting it is to stand in the same spots as their favorite characters, making the tour especially memorable for fans.

However, some reviews mention that the guide’s commentary on the GOT filming locations could be more detailed. Still, most agree that recognizing these sites adds an extra layer of fun to the walk.

Exploring Girona’s Jewish Quarter

Next, you’ll meander through the Jewish Quarter, one of Europe’s best-preserved. The narrow streets, ancient buildings, and rich cultural history make it a highlight. The detail and authenticity of this area stand out, with many noting how it feels like stepping into a living history book.

Free Time to Roam and Sample Local Flavors

After the guided tour, you’re given around two hours of free time. This is when you can visit Girona’s stunning cathedral on your own, indulge in some local tapas, or grab a gelato—recommendations for Rocambolesc Gelateria are a popular choice. Several reviews mention that this free period is somewhat short, especially for a leisurely lunch, but it’s enough for a quick snack or some browsing.

The Return Journey

The coach departs back to Barcelona around mid-afternoon, with the journey taking about an hour and a half. Most travelers find the return ride as relaxed as the outbound trip, enjoying the scenery or catching up on rest.

What Else to Think About

The tour costs around $63.72 per person, which, considering transportation, guided commentary, and entry to the city’s highlights, offers good value. But keep in mind that admission tickets to Girona Cathedral are not included, so if you want to go inside, plan for that extra expense.

The group size maxes out at 30, which is manageable for a more personal experience. The tour runs rain or shine, so dress appropriately, especially for walking in uneven streets or if the weather turns.

Some reviews mention minor issues like guides getting a bit lost or not having perfect signal for photos, but overall, most travelers find the guides friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

If you’re a fan of Game of Thrones looking to see filming sites and learn about a stunning medieval setting, this tour delivers. It’s also very suitable for history and architecture lovers, as Girona’s well-preserved sites are fascinating and photogenic. Given the manageable timing and group size, it’s a good choice for travelers who want a structured, guided experience without feeling rushed.

However, if you’re seeking a long, leisurely exploration with more free time to wander, you might find the 2-hour guided tour plus limited free time a bit tight. Also, if you’re planning to visit Girona’s interior or want to explore museums and churches more deeply, you’ll need to budget for additional tickets and time.

Practical Questions & Answers

How long is the tour?
It’s approximately 9 hours in total, including transportation, guided walking tour, and free time.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation on an air-conditioned coach, a 2-hour guided tour of Girona, a radio guide system, and a local guide with bilingual commentary.

Are tickets to Girona Cathedral included?
No, admission to Girona Cathedral is not included; you’ll need to pay that separately if you wish to go inside.

Is the tour suitable for families?
It’s suitable for most travelers comfortable with walking and standing for a few hours. If traveling with children, consider their comfort with this pace.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or sun.

Can I customize the free time?
The free time is set for about two hours, giving you a chance to explore on your own, eat, or shop.

How good are the guides?
Reviews consistently praise the guides’ friendliness and knowledge. A few mention getting a little lost or short commentary, but overall, guides are well-liked.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the group is capped at 30 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most travelers book about 42 days ahead on average, so early booking secures your spot and better prices.

This Girona tour from Barcelona offers a balanced mix of guided sightseeing, historical beauty, and some fun for Game of Thrones fans. It’s a good value for a full day, especially if you want to see a beautiful city without the hassle of planning transport and routes yourself. The guides are often highlighted as a highlight, adding personality and local insights that make the experience more engaging.

It’s a solid choice if you’re after a well-organized day trip that combines scenery, history, and pop culture. Just keep in mind the limited free time if you’re eager to explore every corner or enjoy a relaxed meal.

For those who love a good story, picturesque streets, and a touch of TV magic, this Girona trip could be a memorable part of your Barcelona adventure.