Girona

Spain

Girona offers a captivating blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy. Explore its well-preserved Old Town, iconic Onyar River houses, and rich Jewish heritage, making it a perfect destination for history buffs and culture enthusiasts.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days
Budget$60/day
Mid-range$100/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

CataloniaCosta BravaSpainEuropeMedievalHistoricRomanFrench borderPyreneesBeaches

🇪🇸 Country Information: Spain

CapitalMadrid
CurrencyEuro (€)
Language Spanish , Catalan, Galician, Basque, Valencian
Phone Code+34
Electricity230V (Type C, F)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is generally not obligatory but appreciated for good service; 5
  • 10% in restaurants is common for good service, rounding up taxi fares, small change for baristas

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted, especially in cities and tourist areas, but smaller establishments might prefer cash
  • It's good to have some cash for small purchases and less urban areas
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Meal times are typically later than in many other countries, with dinner often starting at 9 PM or later
  • Siesta is less common in major cities but still observed in smaller towns
  • Personal space can be closer than in some other cultures
  • Dress codes are generally casual but respectful, especially when visiting religious sites

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Spain is very LGBTQ+ friendly with comprehensive anti-discrimination laws and legal same-sex marriage since 2005. There is strong societal acceptance.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • Legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are complex: private use and cultivation of cannabis are decriminalized, but public consumption and trafficking are illegal and carry severe penalties

Special Laws

  • It is illegal to drink alcohol in public spaces outside of designated areas
  • Smoking is prohibited in many public indoor spaces
  • Nudity and topless sunbathing are allowed on some beaches but can be restricted in others

Common Phrases

HelloHola (OH-lah) Hola
PleasePor favor (por fah-VOR) Por favor
Excuse mePerdón (per-DOHN) Perdón
Thank youGracias (GRAH-see-ahs) Gracias

Climate

Girona has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters.

Climate Zone: Mediterranean

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Xuixo dessert

The Xuixo is a deep-fried, sugar-coated pastry, similar to a croissant but cylindrical, and filled with crema catalana. It is a signature sweet treat

Banyoles style Rice regional_speciality

This is a distinctive style of rice dish, often cooked with meat (like chicken or rabbit) and sometimes snails, highlighting the fresh produce and tra

Botifarra Dolça regional_speciality

A unique sweet sausage from the Girona region, this cured meat is made with pork, sugar, and lemon zest. It can be eaten raw, grilled, or pan-fried, o

Crema Catalana dessert

Often considered the Catalan version of crème brûlée, this dessert consists of a rich custard base flavored with lemon peel and cinnamon, topped with

Anchovies from L'Escala snack

While L'Escala is a coastal town near Girona, these salted and cured anchovies are famous throughout the province and are considered a delicacy. They

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Accommodation during Temps de Flors Festival (May) Accommodation
Book 2–6 months in advance

The city becomes incredibly busy during this major flower festival, leading to very limited availability and high prices for accommodations.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Game of Thrones Walking Tours tour_or_activity
Book 2–6 weeks in advance

These are highly popular guided tours, and booking in advance ensures a spot, especially for specific times and languages.

Fun Facts

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