Private Tour Girona & Shopping

Exploring Girona & Shopping at La Roca Village: A Practical Review

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines history, stunning scenery, and a bit of retail therapy, this Private Tour Girona & Shopping might just fit the bill. Offered by MADRID LANDS, it caters to those wanting a personalized experience without the chaos of large group tours. While I haven’t taken this specific trip myself, I’ve researched what makes it appealing—and where it might fall a little short—for anyone considering booking.

One of the things I love about this kind of tour is the flexibility it offers: a private guide means your experience can feel more tailored, and the small group size keeps things intimate and manageable. Also, the inclusion of a visit to La Roca Village, with its numerous luxury brands and discounts, promises a shopping experience that’s both leisurely and slightly indulgent.

That said, it’s worth noting that the 8-hour duration is quite packed, so if you’re someone who prefers a more relaxed pace or has specific interests, this might feel a little rushed. Plus, the price of around $340 per person reflects a comprehensive itinerary, but it’s not exactly a bargain—so consider whether the boutique shopping and scenic sightseeing are worth it for you.

Ultimately, this tour suits travelers who want a well-rounded day—combining culture, vistas, and shopping—without the hassle of planning every detail themselves. If you’re eager to explore Girona’s character and enjoy some upscale retail, this could be a good pick.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Small group size (up to 10 people) and a dedicated guide-driver make for a more intimate tour.
• Cultural Highlights: Tour includes Girona’s old town, the impressive Cathedral, and city walls with panoramic views.
• Shopping Perks: La Roca Village offers discounts up to 60% on over 150 brands, ideal for savvy shoppers.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making logistics smoother.
• Duration & Flexibility: At 8 hours, it’s a full day, but check the times to ensure it fits your schedule.
• Multi-lingual Guidance: The tour provides live guides in Spanish, English, and Arabic, plus audio guides in several languages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting from Barcelona: Setting Off

The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel in Barcelona, which is pretty convenient. Since the tour includes a vehicle adapted to the group size, you won’t need to worry about cramped transport. The driver-guide will be your companion for the day, providing insights and making sure everyone stays on schedule. Keep in mind the starting times vary, so it’s best to check availability and plan accordingly.

First Stop: Girona’s Stone Bridge and Onyar River Views

Our first glimpse of Girona is from the Stone Bridge (Pont de Pedra). This spot is excellent for snapping photos—think of the colorful houses lining the riverbanks and the way the light hits the water. Many reviews emphasize how stunning the views are here, often describing it as “picturesque.” It’s a popular spot for visitors, especially because it offers a great vantage point of the entire old town.

Exploring Girona’s Old Town: Barri Vell

Next, the narrow, winding streets of the Barri Vell (Old Quarter) unfold before you. This area feels like stepping back in time thanks to the cobblestone streets and ancient buildings. Our guide will lead us through this maze, sharing stories and history that breathe life into the sights.

The Girona Cathedral is a highlight—its massive Gothic nave is reputed to be the widest in the world. Its Baroque facade is striking, but many visitors are captivated by the interior’s grandeur. Plus, the cathedral gained fame as a filming location for Game of Thrones, adding a fun pop culture twist to the visit.

A common comment from previous travelers is how the cathedral and the old town exude a charming, authentic Catalan atmosphere. Walking along the ancient city walls, you’ll get breathtaking views of Girona and the surrounding landscape. Some reviews mention how walking the walls offers “spectacular perspectives,” perfect for snapping memorable photos.

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The Walls: A Unique Perspective

Access to the city walls is included, which many find to be the real highlight of the tour. From here, you can see the old town’s rooftops, the river, and in the distance, rolling hills—ideal for those who appreciate panoramic vistas. The walls provide a sense of how Girona defended itself, and standing atop them, you’ll understand why they remain such a favorite feature for visitors.

Afternoon: La Roca Village Shopping

After soaking in Girona’s historic charm, the tour takes you to La Roca Village, just 40 minutes away. This outlet shopping destination is designed with a Mediterranean vibe, inspired by Gaudí’s architecture, which makes wandering around it quite pleasant.

Here’s where the tour really shines for shopaholics: over 150 boutiques from top brands, offering discounts of up to 60%. You can browse designer labels and find deals you won’t see in regular stores. Many past visitors have raved about the quality of the shopping experience and the chance to pick up luxury goods at a fraction of the price.

The village also offers a nice variety of restaurants and cafes—so you can unwind and enjoy local or international cuisine after shopping. It’s a laid-back environment, perfect for those who want to combine retail therapy with a bit of cultural sightseeing earlier in the day.

Returning to Barcelona

After a relaxed afternoon, the guide-driver takes you back to Barcelona, typically arriving around evening. The return trip offers a good chance to reflect on the day’s highlights and chat about your favorite moments.

What the Tour Includes and What It Doesn’t

The package is quite comprehensive: hotel pickup and drop-off, a guide-driver, and visits to both Girona and La Roca Village. The tour is designed for up to 10 participants, maintaining an intimate atmosphere.

However, it’s important to note what’s not included—lunch, snacks, and soft drinks—you’ll need to bring those along or plan to buy them at La Roca Village. Also, since the tour is private, you won’t be met with large crowds, but that also means you should be prepared for a full day of sightseeing and walking.

Pricing and Value

At $340 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option but offers a well-rounded experience for those interested in history and shopping. The private aspect and guided experience add value, especially if you prefer not to navigate on your own. It’s worth considering if the sights and discounts match your priorities and budget.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for travelers who want to maximize their day with a combination of cultural exploration and shopping, without the stress of planning every detail. It’s suited for those comfortable with a full, structured day—if you’re someone who enjoys guided visits, stunning views, and boutique shopping, you’ll likely enjoy this trip.

It’s less suitable for those seeking a very relaxed pace or with specific dietary needs, as meals and snacks aren’t included. Also, if you’re traveling with very young children or elderly family members, consider the physical demands of walking along the walls and navigating the old town’s uneven streets.

Final Thoughts

This private Girona and La Roca Village tour offers a meaningful way to spend a day outside Barcelona, blending history, scenery, and shopping. The smaller group and guided approach make the experience more personal, which many travelers appreciate, especially if they’re not keen on navigating complex schedules alone.

While the price might be on the higher side, the inclusion of hotel pickup, expert guiding, and exclusive shopping discounts can make it worthwhile. The highlight—stunning views from Girona’s city walls and the chance to browse luxury brands at discounted prices—make this experience stand out for those craving a mix of culture and retail.

If you’re someone who loves exploring authentic towns, appreciates good vistas, and enjoys hunting for bargains, this trip could be a highlight of your trip to Catalonia. Just be ready for a full, engaging day, and you’ll likely come away with both beautiful memories and some great finds.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel in Barcelona, with a vehicle suited to the group size.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 8 hours, so plan for a full day of sightseeing and shopping.

What languages are available for guides?
The live guide can speak Spanish, English, and Arabic, and audio guides are available in French, German, Italian, and Portuguese.

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

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically designed for children, families comfortable with walking and exploring historic sites might enjoy it. Keep in mind the physical aspects of walking along the walls.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sunglasses, and casual clothes are recommended. Since meals aren’t included, plan to bring snacks or buy something at La Roca Village.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, views, and shopping that suits travelers wanting a hassle-free, guided day outside Barcelona.

You can check availability for your dates here: