First things first:
Start the day right
Start your day with a Café con leche (Or a cortado for a quick hit), and a croissant. We had ours in Imperial Café in a square called Plaça de la Independéncia. It seems like a tourist trap from the outside with the location, but 2 coffees will only set you back around 3€ and the coffee is pretty good. That being said, one thing that I’ve discovered about Spain is that you very rarely get bad coffee, and it never costs too much. There are also tonnes of bakeries dotted about, so if you want something on the go – it’s very easily found!
What to do & see:
Enjoy a stroll around the city
The only way I could honestly describe Girona is simply charming; the medieval city makes you feel as though you’ve stepped back into old times, as much of the main architecture in the Jewish Quarter still stands from when it was built. This means that you can wander around almost aimlessly (admittedly that’s what we did) and find some hidden gems, from the cobbled streets to nestles of shops as on Rambla de la Libertat.
Top Tip: You may seem to recognise some of the streets or buildings since some scenes of Game of Thrones were filmed here – though I had to be told, I’d be none the wiser! If you are a big fan you can pay for specific GOT walking tours (I promise I won’t judge).
The Walking Walls of Girona
The Walking Walls of Girona that border the quarter have thankfully been preserved, so stroll along them and see the beautiful views from higher up through a thin cobbled walkway. There are also lots of viewpoint opportunities to see the city from different parts, with beautiful photo opportunities at each one – It’s honestly one of the most photogenic cities that I’ve been to.
It has to be said that my favourite part about the Jewish Quarter was the tranquility. Some areas were so quiet that you could literally hear the birds chirping. It’s especially nice if you’re coming from the hustle and bustle of a busy city. So, when walking around the maze of cobbled streets, and between the Walking Walls, you’ll find yourself in little benched areas, often with someone playing guitar or singing. Take a minute to enjoy yourself.
Learn about the history
Of course, you must see The Cathedral of Girona, which is located within the Jewish Quarter on the highest point of the city. But don’t let that put you off, it’s not awfully high at all. You can pay to go inside for 7€ or 5€ at a discounted price for students, or simply see the beauty from the outside. There’s also a number of other paid museums if they’re your thing: The Museum of Jewish History, The Girona History Museum, and The Archeology Museum. Many of these have discounted prices for selected people, and are free on the first Sunday of every month.
One place I did actually splash out for (a whole 1€ with my student ID discount) was the Arab Baths; which are preserved romanesque public baths which date back to 1194. It’s pretty small, but it’s interesting to see what the parts of the baths used to be. And if you’re too hot outside from all the walking, it’s ironically very cold shade!
Onyar River runs through Girona and is known for the colourful houses that it banks on to on the outskirts of the Jewish quarter. Although the river can be quite shallow (it was even a bit of a push to call it a river when I went), it makes for a great picture and it is one of the most emblematic spots in the city, so you shouldn’t miss it! Over this river you will also find Palanques Vermelles, otherwise known as Eifell Bridge… can you guess who built it?
Lastly, if you’re an art lover, you can find lots of hidden street art hidden (or not so hidden, some are pretty huge). Or if you don’t care to search, you can visit the Girona Art Museum, with romanesque style to modern art, and varying temporary exhibitions and activities.
Where to eat (i.e. the important stuff):
We struggled at first to find somewhere to eat, but that was mainly because we wanted something cheap and traditional but delicious, and it seemed that a lot of the food there was fine dining, an obvious tourist trap or a little on the expensive side. Girona is home to 2 Michelin star restaurants, so if you have the budget, I would definitely recommend you go – but be sure to book months in advance! If (like me) you don’t have that budget, or rather the planning skills to book somewhere months in advance, then El Cau del Llop should be your go-to. There’s a good selection of traditional tapas, meat and cheese boards, and really yummy bocadillos. They also have a menu ‘a la brasa’ with meats cooked on a tiny fire stove, which we didn’t try, but looked and smelt delicious (and cheap too!). We got lots of food (possibly too much) with a caña each, and it came to around 12€ per person, and the portions were pretty generous – definitely worth the money!
Finally, a sweet treat…
Also, (and this is a big, important also), if you want to experience the Michelin Star without the price tag, then you’ll be delighted to hear they have an ice cream shop, Rocambolesc Gelateria. And let me tell you, it is DELICIOUS. There was a bit of a queue when we went, so prepare yourself for that. But its only 3.50€ for a small (as in the picture) or 4.50€ for a big one, with 3 toppings of your choice. I promise you, it is absolutely well worth it – and I don’t mess around when it comes to good food.
